Child Magazine | Cape Town Dec/Jan 2013

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

sunscreen

smart

are you getting enough protection?

safety tips for the pool, home and beyond

slow it down

choosing a life in the country

happyholidays bumper dec/jan ‘what’s on’

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Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

free

health

84 education

ways to give from the heart entertainment

Hunter House PUB L IS H ING

On my way home from work recently, I watched as a Big Issue vendor helped an elderly woman cross the road. The wind was howling, and the old lady, stiff with arthritis, was making dangerously slow progress amid rush-hour traffic. Seeing this, the vendor abandoned at least 20 potential customers to perform a simple act of kindness. They exchanged no words when they eventually reached the other side of the road. She reached out her hand to steady herself on a building and catching her breath, she lifted her head, and smiled up at the vendor.

With just a simple nod of acknowledgment, he returned to his post, seemingly unaware of how much easier he had made her day, and at the same time, enriched mine.

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

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Anél Lewis • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Lucille Kemp • capetown@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway

Art Designers Nikki-leigh Piper • nikki@childmag.co.za Alys Suter • studio2@childmag.co.za Mariette Barkhuizen • studio@childmag.co.za Mark Vincer • studio3@childmag.co.za

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

Client Relations

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

Lisa Waterloo • waterloo@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation

And so, as I head into the often frantic festive season, there is only one item on my wish list: it is the gift of kindness that I am most hoping to give and receive this year. This lasting, but often underrated gesture has the power to change not only the quality of our lives, but the actual lives of others.

Here’s wishing you a wonderful, family-filled end of year and a rejuvenated 2013.

If you love the magazine you’ll love our website. Visit us at childmag.co.za

Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za Cape Town’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing,

Accounts

PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 7, Canterbury Studios,

Nicolene Baldy • admin@childmag.co.za

35 Wesley Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 021 465 6093, fax: 021 462 2680,

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

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but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher.

We take care to ensure our articles, and other editorial content, are accurate and balanced, but cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or inconvenience that may arise from reading them.

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monthly circulation

Free requested Jul 12 – Sep 12

All our magazines are printed on recycled paper.

December 2012 / January 2013

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contents december and january 2013

40

upfront 3

a note from lisa

6 over to you

38 stop to smell the roses

readers respond

12 reader’s blog

journalist Lynne O’Connor is moved by the suffering of a young burn victim

health 11 that tingle you have

13 dad’s blog

s wapping the city for a slower, simpler life has its ups and downs, says Lucille Kemp

Marc de Chazal gets nostalgic about family holidays at the coast

fever blisters are contagious and unsightly, but they can be treated, says Marina Zietsman

features

regulars

19 burn, baby, burn

8 wins

make sure you cover up with sunscreens that comply with the new regulations for UVA and UVB protection. By Tamlyn Vincent

19

10 upfront with paul

14 best for baby – the crying game

most parents fear colic, but there are things you can do to make your baby more comfortable, says Anél Lewis

16 dealing with difference

Lisa Witepski says pregnant women should question the accuracy and merits of tests looking for genetic abnormalities

40 resource – presents from the heart

22 raising a vegetarian

ave you heard the one about the h child who couldn’t laugh? Paul Kerton says humour is an important part of family life

lynis Horning finds out that even G babies and pregnant women can thrive with a meat-free lifestyle

25 the sun always shines on tv

Child magazine suggests creative gift ideas for children of all ages

45 stories in stereo

audio books for the holiday

Cath Jenkin and Christina Castle consider the pros and cons of letting your child watch the box

28 cookout

52 what’s on in december/january

ake the most of the warmer weather m with these outdoor recipes from Christine Phillips

32 safety first

Child magazine offers 20 smart tips for home and away

36 get real

test your skills under pressure with these popular game shows.

By Anél Lewis

46 a good read new books for the whole family

70 finishing touch

nél Lewis finds that not even the A cat is safe when there are children in the house

classified ads 64 family marketplace 67 let’s party

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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December 2012 / January 2013

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

kinder.co.za Photograph: Romi Stern supernovacm.co.za

Siri Stafford Getty Images Gallo Images

shutterstock.com

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December 2012 / January 2013

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letters

back to basics I want to say thank you so much for this magazine. I am a young mom and have found that your publication has helped me a lot.

In response to the article “bottoms up” (November 2012 issue): I have a daughter who is now two years old. When she was about eight months old, she developed a rash from an allergic reaction to antibiotics. Her poor bottom was so damaged that it barely had any skin on it. It bled and she cried whenever she sat down or got into the bath. This lasted for three months.

I spent thousands on recommended creams and lotions. Eventually a doctor told me to paint raw egg white on the affected area, as it is high in protein. Desperate, I followed his instruction, and one week later the rash had cleared. Now, whenever I see a rash starting, I get out the paintbrush and an egg. This has saved me a lot of money and my daughter’s bottom.

Avalon Klein

multiple caps My sister’s little boy, Luke, came into the world a month early, meaning that there was less time for us to prepare for his arrival and we had to deal with his status as a “prem” baby. As Claire had developed the HELLP syndrome, a condition that includes

over to you

Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters or comments to marina@childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010.

a big thank you

technology not available to everyone

I find your magazine very informative and I especially enjoy the “fab dad” column by Paul Kerton. The letter “left is right” (October 2012 issue) caught my attention.

I have a six-year-old “lefty” daughter in Grade 1 and her teacher recommended therapy. I don’t think teachers realise the difficulties “lefties” face. They need special scissors, to name one thing. Thanks again for an awesome magazine.

Elroy Petersen

keep the balance right

Regarding your article “swipe type learn” (November 2012 issue), on the use of technology in the classroom, the schools mentioned are attended by a privileged few children whose parents can afford the astronomical school fees and the purchasing of these expensive gadgets.

While this is indeed the way the world is going, it is only a very limited number of children who are able to be educated in this manner. For the average child in South Africa, this is far beyond their reach. Surely it should be the democratic right of each child to be given the chance to use technology, not just the wealthy, overindulged and spoilt rich children?

Makes you think: the gap between rich and poor will continue to grow, giving people who have never had to work for anything yet another added advantage over the rest.

Josie

Referring to the articles “the modern mom’s dilemma” and “operation: date night”, these are two contentious issues in a marriage. I would like to know whether there are any stay-at-home mothers who have husbands who just cannot, or will not, grasp the idea that these two issues need to be dealt with for a balanced marriage.

There are women whose husbands don’t give them an allowance for themselves and don’t take them out on date nights. What type of men are these? I have one and I cannot understand this.

Anonymous

Child magazine asked Michelle Lissoos, managing director of Think Ahead, a company specialising in the integration of technology into teaching and learning, to respond: Thank you for your feedback. Our experience has in fact been the opposite. We have seen the iPad being used as an educational tool to increase the access to technology and improve the digital literacy of a broader range of schools across South Africa. With its mobility, lack of need for additional infrastructure,

Thank you so much for an excellent magazine, which is always full of interesting articles and information. I would also like to thank you for the Leaping Lizards game I won from Clever Fish, which my children really enjoy.

Jennifer Stiff

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

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liver complications, Luke was delivered via an emergency C-section. She had only a few hours to say goodbye to her plan for natural delivery and adjust to “being put out completely” for the birth. Luke had already been bathed, bottle-fed and burped by the time she got to meet him, and she was determined to get him to latch and breast-feed as soon as possible. It took a day or two for him to get acquainted with her “boobies” and after much determination and perseverance on her part, combined with sound advice from the nurse, Claire succeeded in getting Luke off the bottle and onto her nipple-shielded breasts.

These little items have become a great conversation piece and we have come up with some good ideas on how to improve them. Firstly, they should glow in the dark; not only to humour the sleep-deprived dad lying in the fetal position next to Mom, but also to make them easier to find with only one eye open during the 2am feed. If they were to light up or glow red or green, the new baby could learn to stop and go, and maybe slow down when they turn orange.

They could work like runway lights for twins to ensure the safe landing of the little mouths on sore nipples, thus preventing too much handling. The housebound mom’s inevitable cabin fever could also be prevented if the shields were fitted with a disco strobe light to make her feel, even for just a moment, that she is at a club shaking her hips and now ample bosom to the rhythm of The Black Eyed Peas. Once done with breast-feeding, one could put the entire collection of colourful nipple shields in a glass bowl and use them as a night-light in the little one’s room. Or, as part of your bit for load shedding, you could put them on the dining room table when sharing a romantic meal with your partner.

Lee-Anne Benade

December 2012 / January 2013

such as a computer laboratory, and comparatively lower cost in terms of access to content and usability, we have seen the iPad (and other types of computer devices) being adopted by schools and teachers that previously had no access to technology or resources such as science labs or libraries. Our programme, iSchoolAfrica, focuses on increasing this accessibility. Through our public and private partnerships, we can see how technology has worked as a catalyst for narrowing the divide.

your feedback on facebook and twitter I read Anél’s “finishing touch” column, called “double trouble” (October 2012 issue), and I hear her loud and clear. I have two boys, 10 months and 22 months, and a girl who is five. Madness! It’s really great to know that I’m not the only one with many children close in age. It makes the bad days better.

Sherryn Phillips I just love the Santa Shoebox project. I took part last year and this year. It is so much fun, and being a mom knowing that there are children who don’t get to celebrate Christmas or receive any gifts, just breaks my heart. When you wrap the box you can almost imagine the little ones opening it and seeing the look on their faces – must be priceless. I will continue to support this project.

Natasha Ludeke Mostert

We reserve the right to edit and shorten submitted letters. The opinions reflected here are those of our readers and are not necessarily held by Hunter House Publishing.

Post a comment online at childmag.co.za

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magazine cape town

December 2012 / January 2013

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wins

giveaways

in december and january fun in the sun imagine and play Dollhouse Factory creates handcrafted playhouses for girls, boys and toddlers. They are solid and sturdy and offer children hours of fun while encouraging role play and the use of their imagination. Contact Dallas: 082 899 4568 or visit dollhousefactory.co.za Two readers stand a chance to each win their choice of a Princess Deluxe Dollhouse, a Toy Story Toybox or a Dinosaur and Dragon Den, valued at R1 340 each. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Dollhouse CT”. Your details will be made available to Dollhouse Factory.

Waterworld Strand is a family orientated waterslide and fun park on the Strand Beach. There are various rides for different ages, a children’s pool and a parents’ corner. Contact: 021 854 4702, info@waterslides. co.za or visit waterslides.co.za One reader stands a chance to win a party for 10 children, valued at R450, and five readers stand a chance to each win a full day family pass, valued at R300. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Waterworld CT”. Your details will be made available to Waterworld Strand.

back to school goodies Cartoon Network brings children a comedy-packed line-up, including The Amazing World of Gumball about a 12-year-old cat with a flair for misadventure. Find video clips, wallpapers and games online. Watch the series on DStv channel 301 or visit cartoonnetworkafrica.com/gumball Three readers stand a chance to each win a Cartoon Network hamper of goodies for school, including a USB flash drive, backpack, T-shirt, Star Wars watch, Rubik’s cube key ring, notepad and sets of badges, stickers, coloured pens and crayons, all valued at R844. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Cartoon Network CT”.

keeping it fresh Diversicor presents two wonderful ranges of high quality BPA-free plasticware.

The Sistema storage range clips, seals and stacks for convenient and easy use; the funky Cool Gear range keeps drinks and snacks cooler and fresher for longer.

For more info: visit diversicor.co.za Two readers stand a chance to each win a hamper of Cool Gear products or a hamper of Sistema products, both valued at R1 000. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “Diversicor CT”. Your details will be made available to Diversicor.

to enter simply visit childmag.co.za

or post your entry to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Entries close 31 January 2013. Only one entry per reader.

For full terms and conditions of giveaways please see “Competition Rules” on our website childmag.co.za

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December 2012 / January 2013

congratulations to our October winners Diane May, Sjianette Gray, Hayley Hardie, Monique Crause, Kershini Lyer and Dezray Mason who each win with bobble; Susan Turner who wins with Think Toys; Michael Nieuwoudt and Megon Schutte who each win with Calpol; Philippa Caldwell, Louise Cantin, Liesel Kleinhans, Silke Austin, Julia Lloyd, Angie Bennett and Lisa Parnell who each win with City Sightseeing and Robert Cantin who wins with The Listeners’ Library.

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2012 / January 2013

9

upfront with paul

laugh out loud Laughter really is the best medicine when it comes to your child’s health and

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

i

t makes me die laughing; okay, it raises a wry smile, when I see young children going through the inevitable toilet humour stage we all do. Anything to do with bottoms or farts, or an extended lexicon of embarrassing but normal bodily functions – mostly those in the nether regions – causes them to double up in wild hysterics. I reluctantly bought Sabina a whoopee cushion about two years ago and instantly regretted it. How can something so ridiculous and irritating bring so much pleasure? Luckily she grew out of it. Toilet humour gets slightly tedious when they are still doing it at 21, but hey, each to their own.

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December 2012 / January 2013

A great sense of humour, or GSOH as the personals prefer it, is an essential tool that helps to get us through the rigours of life, whether as a parent or a child.

Think of the gallows humour of the soldier dodging bullets on the front line, “always look on the bright side”, “laughter is the best medicine” and all that. Some of us have a GSOH, some don’t; some think they do but don’t and some people’s wit is so dry that it flies over everybody’s heads.

Others have a sense of humour deemed so weird or dark, that an audience sits there aghast, asking, “Do you really think that’s funny?” As a test, try this, one of the top five funniest jokes of all time: “I said to the

gym instructor, ‘Can you teach me to do the splits?’ He said, ‘How flexible are you?’

I said, ‘I can’t make Tuesdays.’”

No matter what type of humour you have, people will adapt given time. The fact that you and your child have one is critical, and the sound of genuine laughter is music to a parent’s ears as it’s a sure sign that your child is happy, relaxed, well-balanced and socially connected. Basically, if you can’t laugh, there’s something slightly wrong. While psychologists used to poohpooh the idea that there was any scientific correlation between laughter and an individual’s health and development, they changed their tune radically 20 years ago and have been having a laugh ever since.

In adults, a deficient sense of humour can signal a variety of disorders such as schizophrenia, autism and Asperger’s syndrome, and humour offers new insights

into the nature of those conditions.

“Humour sets you up to understand that people can do things wrong and intend them to be wrong,” says UK psychologist Merideth Gattis. “That’s an easy entry into duality, the idea that an action can mean more than one thing – a very difficult concept for young children to grasp.”

Children generally go through various stages starting with peekaboo baby stuff, through to toilet humour and slapstick, which is why children love clowns and those home video shows where people fall off trampolines. Then comes the joke telling – “knock, knock...” – that, apart from anything else, is more important for the social interaction than the humour given that you can’t tell a joke to yourself. If you do, please stop reading this column now and seek help.

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

development, says PAUL KERTON.

health

that tingle you have Fever blisters are common, but most people don’t realise how contagious they are. By Marina Zietsman

t

hey are unsightly, sore and highly contagious – cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters, are groups of small blisters on the lip and around the mouth. They are filled with liquid and can be very painful. After a few days they scab over, and will then take up to two weeks to heal. More than one cold sore may appear on the face at any time. They can also be found in the mouth, although this is less common.

may be asymptomatic (have no symptoms at all) or a child may show signs of a fever and fatigue with multiple painful ulcers on the lips and tongue. Symptomatic first infections usually spontaneously subside after about 10 days, though it may take up to six weeks to heal completely.”

Recurrent attacks of the virus give rise to what we call fever blisters, says Rabinowitz. These infections usually “crust” within four days and heal completely within 10 days.

how you get them

gone, but not for good

It is the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes cold sores, and the most common cause of these sores around the mouth is the herpes simplex virus type 1, or HSV-1. It’s a cousin of herpes simplex type 2, which causes the sexuallytransmitted disease, genital herpes. Most people are first infected with HSV-1 before they are 10 years old. Dr Debbie Rabinowitz, a general practitioner at The Wellness Station in Cape Town, explains: “It is passed from person to person, either directly through kissing and skin contact or indirectly by drinking from the same cup or using the same utensils.”

Once contamination has occurred, the virus hides in nerve cells, where it remains dormant until something causes it to flare up. When the virus is activated, it travels back to the skin and there may be a tingling or burning sensation before there are any other visible signs.

Rabinowitz says, “During the first (primary) infection a child

There is no cure for fever blisters, and Rabinowitz points out the following which can precipitate them: colds, fever, stress (mental and emotional), sun exposure and low immunity, but they can flare up for no known reason. “They tend to be a lifelong condition,” says Rabinowitz. Most sores will go away without treatment, but medicines may reduce the duration of the blisters. Topical antiviral creams can ease the pain and itching of recurrent fever blisters and speed up the healing time, if applied early enough. She adds that these medicines have little effect if started once the blisters are already present. Oral antiviral agents are available by prescription and are used in specific cases only.

Dr Kerri Sacks, a homeopathic practitioner in Joburg, suggests the following supplements, “Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps the body to fight the virus.

L-lysine has anti-viral properties and helps fight the herpes

magazine cape town

virus.” A vitamin B complex supplement is important for sufferers who lead stressful lifestyles. Sacks says there are homeopathic remedies, which can also be very effective, but should symptoms persist, it’s best to consult your homeopathic practitioner for a specific remedy. Rabinowitz suggests you consult your doctor if the fever blisters make it difficult to eat or speak or if they take longer than a week to heal.

keep them at bay • I f your child has open or weeping fever blisters, many crèches would prefer you to keep her at home until the blisters have healed and they are no longer contagious. The weeping stage is the most contagious.

• Encourage frequent handwashing.

• Do not share utensils or cups with a person who has a fever blister.

• Do not kiss someone with a fever blister.

• It is a good idea to clean children’s toys regularly with disinfectant.

• A good sunscreen may prevent the recurrence of fever blisters precipitated by sun exposure. *Courtesy of Dr Debbie Rabinowitz

December 2012 / January 2013

11

reader’s blog

when disaster strikes A freak accident can change your family’s life in seconds. Journalist

t

Lynne O’Connor reflects on a news story that made every parent’s heart skip a beat.

he story of Isabella “Pippie” Kruger, the three-year-old girl who was badly burnt in a freak braai accident on New Year’s Eve last year, has affected me deeply.

I monitor her progress on Facebook via the Pippie Angels page, hoping that each time I log on I’ll find she has reached another milestone on her road to recovery.

I pray that her little body will become whole again and that she’ll no longer have to endure pain.

I also wonder how her mother, Anicé, has been able to stay so strong, pushing highly qualified doctors to perform ground-breaking surgery on her baby, who has been in hospital and rehab for much of the last year, after suffering severe burns to most of her body.

After working in a radio newsroom for the last 15 years, I’ve become somewhat “immune” to pain and suffering, choosing instead to think

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December 2012 / January 2013

about incidents of crime and tragedy in a logical and distanced manner. I’ve been angry after reading stories about babies being raped, children being murdered and their parents being maimed.

I’ve reacted with outrage to the laws and authorities that have failed to protect them and agonised over what I could do to make a positive change. But I’ve moved on.

Switching off has been my way of protecting myself, so that I don’t fall apart every time I read a news bulletin or write a story.

Now that I’m no longer in the thick of radio news and am focused more on online coverage, I realise that I’ve let my guard down slightly. I think about Pippie when there’s a lull in my day, wondering what I would have done had my own daughter been hurt so badly. Would I have been so strong, if I were sitting at the hospital bedside of one of my treasured sons?

My husband, Kenneth, was the paramedic who transported Pippie’s cloned skin from OR Tambo International Airport to Garden City Hospital in rushhour traffic, in just 16 minutes. For days afterwards, he was too choked up to speak about the incident without wanting to break down in tears. Pippie’s plight has tugged at the heart of my family. It’s probably because we too have a little girl, two years older than Pippie. We too have had incidents over the last 13 years, where we’ve had to rush to the braai, to quickly push one of our inquisitive children away from the flames. Kenneth has literally walked into the swimming pool, fully clothed, to save our daughter from drowning.

I’ve phoned the doctor, panicked, after my eldest son pulled a cup of hot coffee off a table onto his body, when he was just a toddler. I’ve held my youngest son to my chest, sobbing, after he fell

over in the bath when he was a year old and struggled to get up, while I turned around to get a towel from the rail.

I’m eternally grateful that none of these accidents caused permanent damage and that we were only left shaken. I wish that had been Pippie’s fate. I wish her beautiful, chubby cheeks weren’t scarred. I wish she didn’t have to wear a bite plate, to stop her from grinding her teeth in pain. Pippie’s mother deserves a medal. No, she deserves a healthy, happy and whole daughter.

See page 32 for summer safety tips.

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

magazine cape town

dad’s blog

are we there yet?

Time is a tricky concept for children, especially when they’re en route to an exciting holiday destination.

MARC DE CHAZAL reminisces about his coastal experience.

a

10-day holiday when you’re an adult flies past, but time seems to drag on forever when you’re a child. The car journey from our farm to the beach, where we spent most of our family holidays, always felt like a transcontinental trek. My sister and I learnt to look out for particular landmarks along the

afternoon nap so that we’d be able to stay awake for both movies. I could never fall asleep in the afternoon, but somehow I managed to stave off the sleep at the drive-in long enough to watch both films. My sister, however, never made it to the second screening, despite her afternoon shuteye.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

My sister and I learnt to look out for familiar landmarks along the way… way to reassure us that we weren’t merely spinning on a hamster wheel on the road to nowhere – but we still asked the annoying “are we there yet?” question.

I don’t think we were ever really bored at the beach.

We played board games such as Uno, Monopoly and Snakes and Ladders as if there was no tomorrow. We also tested our trivia knowledge, played cards, and very often, “I spy”. Our favourite outing was a trip to the drive-in. My parents would insist that we all take an

magazine cape town

I recall my dad being a different person on holiday.

The beach has always been his “happy place”, where he can forget about the pressures of running his farming business. Hopefully you will also be able to unwind from your daily stress if you go away for the holidays; I’m sure your relaxed mood will rub off on your children too. Make sure you take lots of board games. After all, a child’s boundless energy won’t necessarily abate just because he is on holiday.

Read more of Marc’s weekly parenting blogs on childmag.co.za/dad-blog

December 2012 / January 2013

13

best for baby

the

crying game

We all know that babies cry, but could that incessant wailing be a sign of colic?

ANÉL LEWIS finds out.

t

he term “colic” is enough to strike fear into the hearts of most new parents. But, does the condition really exist, or is it just a convenient way of referring to prolonged bouts of crying? Cape Town-based paediatrician Dr Claudia Gray says the term is used “rather broadly” by doctors to refer to excessive crying for no apparent reason, in an otherwise healthy infant. She suggests the “rule of three” to define colic: does the crying last more than three hours, occur for more than three days a week and persist for more than three weeks?

and paediatric medicine. Gray says there are “many theories” about the causes of colic, but common factors may include one or more of the following: immaturity of the baby’s gut, abnormal bowel movements, trapped wind, a disturbance in the bacteria of the gut, reflux of stomach contents into the baby’s oesophagus, feeding difficulties, which may include over- or underfeeding and swallowed air, exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy and after birth, or an allergy to cow’s milk protein. Lactose intolerance may also play a minor role.

Gray adds that a baby’s hypersensitivity to environmental stimuli and any family

Some may say it does not exist, and this could be due to the fact that colic is a collection of symptoms, rather than a condition.

Gray says colic presents in as many as 40 percent of babies. Caesarean babies are no more at risk than those born naturally and there isn’t any difference between breast-fed and formula-fed babies, or those born prematurely. It may run in the family though, and it seems to be more common in Caucasian babies.

possible causes While some may argue that there is no such thing as colic, the parent of an infant who cries nonstop will beg to differ. “Some may say it does not exist, and this could be due to the fact that colic is a collection of symptoms, rather than a condition,” explains Dr Lauren Forbes, a Pretoriabased chiropractor specialising in family

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December 2012 / January 2013

stress or emotional tension experienced during pregnancy may contribute to the symptoms.

identify that cry Gray says parental expectations or perceptions “certainly” play a role in the definition of a child as suffering from colic.

“It is important for parents to understand a ‘normal’ pattern of crying. All children cry more during the first three months.” Colic, however, is behaviour that goes beyond what is considered normal: persistent and excessive crying that is distressing for the baby and the parents. “The crying is more intense and high-pitched than normal with a ‘piercing’ or ‘grating’ quality.”

Forbes says a colicky baby may present with legs flexed against the abdomen, magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

no discrimination

tensed abdominal muscles and clenched fists. Some babies arch themselves backwards. The unexplained crying will usually start from about three weeks, will peak at two months and should subside between three and six months. Gray says the crying episodes usually begin abruptly, often clustering in the evening.

colic survival kit Your baby needs to be examined to rule out any other causes of pain and irritability, such as an infection or a fracture. The symptoms then need to be managed, and Gray says children will respond differently, depending on the factors causing their colic. She suggests the following: • Make use of friends and family who offer to help. Incessant crying can try a parent’s patience. Take a quick break, rather than running the risk of harming your baby should you reach the end of your tether.

• Bottle-fed babies may need an anti-colic bottle, or will benefit from drinking in a more upright position.

In cases of severe colic, your doctor may suggest changing your baby’s formula to rule out a possible reaction to cow’s milk protein, especially if there are other signs, such as eczema or growth failure.

• Empty one breast completely when breast-feeding to reduce the intake of lactose from the foremilk, or milk released at the start of the feed. Limit your dairy and caffeine intake for a week, after discussion with your health practitioner, to see if your baby’s symptoms subside. There is not much evidence for avoidance of other magazine cape town

allergenic foods, such as wheat or nuts, so it is not advisable to go on a highly restrictive diet.

• Carry your baby during crying spells.

Regular motion, in a car or a safe baby swing, may also help.

• Try a warm bath or a soothing baby massage. White noise, such as the sound of a washing machine, may help your baby settle.

• If there are signs of possible reflux, such as excessive vomiting, a refusal to feed or arching of the back, your doctor may consider a trial of antacid medication.

• Use antispasmodics, popular colic mixtures and homeopathic medications sparingly, as they may have side effects.

• Forbes says chiropractic care has shown to be a “highly successful” treatment option and, according to some studies, has shown significantly better results than other treatments.

Chiropractic care is a “conservative, gentle and natural” option for treating colic. Specific and gentle pressure, much like that used to check the ripeness of an avocado pear, is applied to the baby’s back and neck. There are also baby massage techniques that facilitate digestion and aid relaxation. This strengthens the bond between mother and baby, as the stress of trying to soothe an unsettled baby often interferes with mother-baby bonding and can increase the risk of postpartum depression.

Gray adds that parents need to be reassured that the colic is not a result of their parenting abilities. It will eventually be outgrown and your child will not experience any long-term harm.

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15

dealing with difference

a testing time Blood screens for abnormalities such as Down’s syndrome are a regular part of a pregnant woman’s medical examination, but they’re not always accurate, and the

hen I fell pregnant with my daughter in December last year, I looked forward to my 12-week checkup as the day my gynae would confirm that my baby was healthy and developing as she should. And sure enough, the appointment left my husband and I elated: baby was growing well, and the nuchal fold scan showed there was little risk of Down’s syndrome. But, a week later my doctor phoned to say that my blood screens told a different story. Combined, the results of both tests indicated that the chance of my child being born with Down’s could not be ruled out. I was devastated. I tried to remind myself that, with the risk standing at one in 300, the odds were definitely in my favour. But in my head circled a myriad questions: what would life be like if the perfect child I had envisaged was not, in fact, “perfect”? Was I equal to the task of caring for such a child? And the hardest, ugliest question of all: would I be able to love her with all my heart? Concerned

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December 2012 / January 2013

about my test results, I found reassurance in speaking to mothers who’d had similar experiences – and, to my surprise, there were plenty.

It’s crucial to note that it is the woman’s choice whether or not to have these tests. false fears Taryn Maree, a 31-year-old Joburg school teacher, was dismayed when told that according to her blood tests her first baby, now three, had a one in 32 chance of having Down’s. “Although Katie was considered a high-risk case, abortion wasn’t an option for me. I couldn’t have lived with myself, especially if I wasn’t able to fall pregnant again,” says Taryn. Her husband, however, had a different opinion.

“He queried the wisdom of bringing someone into the world when they would be constantly bullied or unable to look after themselves if something should happen to us,” she explains.

An amniocentesis confirmed that Taryn and her husband could breathe a sigh of relief. But the anxiety and differing views caused by the earlier test results had put each of them, and their marriage, under strain. Incidentally, Taryn’s second baby was also considered at risk for Down’s, which was again disproved by an amniocentesis, so it’s not surprising that her husband is less than enthusiastic when she talks of having a third child. Taryn says she felt pushed into having an amniocentesis by her gynaecologist, especially as she received no counselling beforehand. “I was horrified by the thought that the baby might be fine, and that the amnio could cause a miscarriage,” she says.

That’s a sentiment Anél Lewis, features editor of Child magazine, understands. Having endured two prior miscarriages, when told that her blood tests revealed a

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

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emotional costs of getting a false positive result are high. By LISA WITEPSKI

high chance of Down’s syndrome, she was reluctant to put another pregnancy at risk with an amniocentesis.

“However, my gynae told me that an amnio was the only way to confirm the baby’s status,” she recalls. Like Taryn, Anél received little counselling; in fact, she says, she was reminded repeatedly that the hospital could not be held liable if any problems did occur.

Already distraught, Anél took her doctor’s advice to visit a fetal medicine specialist. But the visit was anything but reassuring. The first shock came when the doctor asked if she had any “funny-looking” or “retarded people” in her family. Next, after she explained her reasons for wanting to avoid an amnio, she was told very firmly that without the test, there was little the specialist could tell her. So Anél spent an anguished seven months unable to connect with her child. “I distanced myself from my baby as I struggled to deal with the possible outcome. I already had a very bright daughter of almost two and, instead of looking forward to her brother’s arrival, I was worried about the impact it could have on her.” Anél cried the night before her C-section, right until she was wheeled into theatre and, although her son was born without Down’s syndrome, it wasn’t until he was about four months old that she felt able to bond with him.

All three of us experienced enormous emotional stress based on the results of our blood tests, yet none of our children was born with Down’s. Does this point to a problem with the system? Anél thinks so. “The fact is that you don’t have to have these tests, but no-one tells you this. We tend not to question our gynae’s advice and, as a result, we often get railroaded into choices we’re

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not comfortable with. You have to trust your instincts. I realise now I should have sought a second opinion the moment I had any sense of doubt. I also think that medical practitioners need to take responsibility for their patients.

It seems they’re sometimes too concerned about potential lawsuits if something goes wrong.”

what to expect Dr Hennie Lombaard, principal specialist at the Maternal and Fetal Medicine Clinic at the University of Pretoria, says that patients should receive counselling before a screening test, primarily so that they understand the advantages and disadvantages. It’s also important that parents understand

the difference between a screening and diagnostic test.

Screening tests, Lombaard explains, are used to identify women at risk of having a baby with Down’s syndrome.

Maternal age is the first screen – women over the age of 35 have a higher risk rate – with a detection rate of 30 percent.

The first trimester screening is also important. Here, the maternal age is considered in combination with the nuchal fold, the swelling behind the fetus’ neck and head. At this stage, between 11 and 13 weeks and six days, your doctor will usually also look for the presence of a nasal bone, which can increase the detection rate to 90 percent, as well as biochemical tests measuring the hormones betahuman chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and pregnancyassociated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). If analysed with Fetal Medicine Foundation Software, the combination of these screens has a 95 percent detection rate.

A number of screens can be carried out in the second trimester too, when the fetus is at 15 to 18 weeks. Chief among these is the “triple test”, which looks at the levels of the hormones β-hCG, oestradiol and alphafetoprotein. These tests, according to Lombaard, have a 50 to 70 percent detection rate, but have a five percent false positive rate. A detailed anatomy scan can also be performed at 18 to 22 weeks, says Lombaard. This scan evaluates the fetus according to a number of soft markers not considered abnormalities per se, but commonly found in fetuses with Down’s syndrome. “The presence of these markers increases the risk for Down’s, but it is important to understand that at least one third of fetuses with Down’s syndrome will appear normal on a detailed anatomy scan.”

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dealing with difference

risky business

diagnostic tests

According to Australian feto-maternal medicine specialists Drs Vitomir Tasevski and Jonathan Morris, it should be clearly explained that the false positive rates for Down’s syndrome using screening is approximately five percent for a detection rate of 90 percent. This means that the vast majority of positive results will be false positive. In an article in the medical journal of the Pacific Laboratory Medicine Services, they write, “The incidence of Down’s syndrome per 10 000 pregnancies at a maternal age of 30 years may be 10 to 12 affected individuals, while 500 cases will yield false positive results.” They emphasise that women need to be properly counselled about the options available to them if the screens pick up an unacceptably high risk. “For those parents who would not proceed to invasive testing, it is important to discuss that a positive screening test may result only in increased anxiety for the duration of the pregnancy and therefore for them to carefully consider the wisdom of the test being performed at all.”

Dr Karin Norman, of Kingsbury Hospital’s Fetal Assessment Centre in Cape Town, explains that a number of variables may contribute to false positives. “The blood tests need to be adjusted for maternal weight, race, smoking, IVF or ovulation induction, gestational age, maternal age, the number of previous children and whether it is a multiple pregnancy.” The results of the tests may also be a sign of complications that may occur later in the pregnancy. A low PAPP-A score might be a marker for babies that are smaller than their gestational ages, or a mother with high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia; while a high β-hCG count may be caused by a multiple pregnancy, or even a vanishing twin.

While none of these screens can provide conclusive results, diagnostic tests can. The downside though is that the only diagnostic tests available in South Africa are invasive in nature, as they involve analysing samples of fetal cells drawn from fetal blood, amniotic fluid or the placenta. Most expectant mothers have heard of the amniocentesis, where amniotic fluid is collected for analysis, usually between 16 and 20 weeks.

Alternatively, your doctor can perform a biopsy of the placenta, obtained by a method called chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which is carried out between 11 and 13 weeks and six days. With both these tests, there is a one percent risk of miscarriage.

Finally, after 22 weeks, blood may be drawn from the fetus, a process called cordocentesis. This presents an even higher risk of miscarriage of between one and two percent. “It’s crucial to note that it is the woman’s choice whether or not to have these tests,” says Lombaard. But, equally, if you decide not to undergo testing and your child is born with Down’s syndrome, your doctor cannot be accused of negligence as there is no way he could have diagnosed the condition.

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speak about your concerns Whether or not you decide to proceed with diagnostic testing, finding out that your child potentially has Down’s syndrome is traumatic and you’re bound to experience a number of complex emotions. “After the initial shock, denial and disbelief one might start to feel sad, angry, anxious and depressed. Feelings of wanting to escape

can be followed by negative feelings towards the unborn baby and what was a blessing and a miracle begins to feel like a burden,” says Durban clinical psychologist Sherona Rawat. “These feelings of rejection towards the baby and avoidance of the reality of the diagnosis are common, and are usually followed by guilt for the negative attitude towards your own flesh and blood.”

She recommends seeking professional counselling to help you process the situation, especially if you are considering terminating the pregnancy. “Following your instinct may not be best, as high emotion impairs logical thinking and impacts your judgement. Moreover, if you and your partner have differing views on the subject, a professional will help you navigate the difficult task of voicing your opposing opinions.

Wrongly worded statements and generalised comments can be difficult to forget and may negatively affect the relationship for years to come. Any decision you make affects both you, your partner and, of course, the baby, so it is important to take the time you need and make sure all concerned are best served by your choice.”

check their credentials Not all doctors are accredited to perform the nuchal translucency scan. You can check online with the Fetal Medicine Foundation, fetalmedicine. com, to see if your doctor has the required certificate of compliance.

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spotlight

burn, baby, burn Help protect your children from skin cancer by choosing the appropriate sunscreen and

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ith summer comes the promise of lazy weekends and family holidays and, with this, long hours spent outdoors in the sun. South Africa has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, which means we need products that offer effective protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

rays of damage The sun gives off ultraviolet radiation in the form of UVA, UVB and UVC rays. Only UVA and UVB rays penetrate the ozone layer to reach the earth. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), the shorter wavelength UVB rays cause sunburn, skin damage and skin cancer. UVA rays, which also cause skin damage, have a longer wavelength. They are less intense than UVB rays, but make up over 90 percent of the UV radiation reaching the earth. UVA can also penetrate through clouds and glass and, unlike UVB rays, the time

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being sun-savvy. By TAMLYN VINCENT

of day, location and season don’t significantly affect their intensity, says Durban-based dermatologist Dr Ishaan Ramkisson.

“Excessive UV radiation produces genetic mutations that can lead to skin cancer,” says Dr Mahendran Moodley, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital in Cape Town. Mohs surgery, a specialised procedure in which the cancer is removed in stages, was developed by Dr Frederic Mohs in the 1930s. UVB and UVA rays both damage the skin, and Ramkisson points out that while the skin can fix superficial damage, the underlying injury remains, and gets worse every time you’re exposed to UV rays.

“Recent research has also found an increased correlation between UVA exposure and the onset of malignant melanoma,” states Cansa. This has lead to a demand for sunscreens to protect against both UVA and UVB rays.

standard testing It was for this reason that Cansa decided to put our sunscreens to the test. Broad-spectrum protection isn’t catered for in the current sunscreen standard in South Africa as “it doesn’t provide for optimal UVA protection”, states Cansa. Many sunscreens have been endorsed by the association, and have displayed the Cansa Seal of Recognition (CSOR), as they complied with the standards available at the time. But with research now showing a link between UVA rays and skin cancer, Cansa commissioned tests on a sample of sunscreen products to determine just how much UVA protection they provided. The sample was made up of about 10 percent of the branded sunscreen products available in SA, including local and international brands, and some CSOR-bearing products. “The sunscreens were tested specifically according to the European Colipa Standard for assessing sunscreen’s UVA protection – the most stringent test currently in use,” states Cansa.

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spotlight

Due to financial constraints as a nonprofit organisation, Cansa carried out tests on only 35 products in total; a relatively small percentage of the sunscreens available to consumers. While Cansa was contractually bound not to disclose the test results, the sample size was too small to draw final conclusions. The association has also pointed out that sunscreen manufacturers were providing sunscreens that met South African standards, and so “public disclosure of the test results was irrelevant”.

In a recent press release, Sue Janse van Rensburg, Cansa CEO, commented on what the tests did highlight: “Although all of the sunscreens adhered to the relevant South African National Standards (SANS), some of the local and imported brands were found to provide less optimal UVA protection as determined by the EU standard”. Ultimately, Cansa says “the tests served their purpose in empowering Cansa with adequate information to support negotiations with industry for improved sunscreen formulations”. Janse van Rensburg adds, “Cansa feels that the public should not merely have adequate protection in terms of sunscreen, but have the absolute best possible protection.”

South African standard, which will provide for protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. Sunscreens to look for are those that offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation, and a good sun protection factor or SPF.

raising the bar

new treatments

It is for this reason that Cansa has raised its own standards and requirements. From 31 March 2013, products that want to display the Cansa Seal will have to comply with both the existing CSOR requirements and the new Harmonized Colipa UVA Protection claim. In time, there will also be a new

“Anyone can develop skin cancer,” says Ramkisson, but the risk does increase if you have a history of exposure to UV rays, and if you have had sunburns, particularly blistering sunburns. Being fair, freckling easily and having a changing mole or a large number of moles, are

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December 2012 / January 2013

Recent research has found an increased correlation between UVA exposure and the onset of malignant melanoma.

Cansa will also be replacing the original CSOR with a new Cansa SunSmart Choice Seal. “While the SABS develops standards for sunscreen in South Africa, the industry remains self-regulatory, with no-one enforcing the law,” states Cansa. And while it doesn’t have the power to enforce sunscreen manufacturers to improve the UVA protection of their products, “Cansa will withdraw the seal from those currently bearing it, if not complying with Colipa standards by March 2013”.

also risk factors. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal and squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While the carcinomas account for about 90 percent of skin cancers, melanoma has a much poorer prognosis because of its potential to spread quickly, says Moodley. Early diagnosis by a dermatologist offers the best outcome.

While there are many treatment options, several new treatments have become available. “Mohs micrographic surgery is an effective and advanced treatment,” says Moodley. “It can be used on basal cell carcinomas and other skin cancers, and has the highest cure rate of all treatment modalities currently available for skin cancer.” As Moodley explains, this surgery recognises that a skin cancer can resemble an iceberg, where only the tip is showing, while more tumour cells grow down and out, into the skin. The surgeon removes the visible tumour and a thin layer of surrounding tissue.

“The tissue is prepared, put on slides and examined under a microscope while the patient waits for the results,” says Moodley. If any residual cancer cells are detected, another layer of tissue where the cancer cells are present is removed and examined. This process is repeated until all the samples are free of cancer. The surgery is done under local anaesthetic, and should be done by an accredited Mohs surgeon.

The benefits of this are that all of the cancerous cells are removed, making it unlikely that the cancer will return.

It minimises the amount of healthy tissue that is lost,

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which means that there is less cosmetic damage and, if reconstructive surgery is necessary, it can often be done on the same day. The Mohs surgery can also effectively treat skin cancers that have recurred, that cover a large area, that are growing rapidly, or that have ill-defined edges.

There are also several new forms of non-surgical treatments: • Photodynamic therapy destroys the skin cancer cells by using both laser light and drugs.

• Immunotherapy is another option. It works by boosting the immune response against the melanoma cells in the body.

• Another type of drug that may help with basal cell carcinomas, is called a hedgehog pathway inhibitor.

Ramkisson says it works by restoring the activity of damaged genes.

Ramkisson highlights other treatments that may be available soon: • Biologic therapy uses chemicals that occur naturally in the body.

• Gene therapy research focuses on identifying specific genes that will stimulate the production of antibodies to attack melanoma.

• Chemoprevention drugs, such as retinoids, have shown promise in reducing the risk of squamous cell cancers.

• Drugs that target the proteins that may cause squamous cell cancers to grow, are also being tested.

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sun protection “At least 80 percent of sun-induced skin damage occurs before the age of 18 and only manifests later in life,” advises Cansa, so good sun protection is vital.

• Moodley recommends choosing a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunscreen with a 3- to 4-star UVA rating and an SPF of at least 30.

• Moodley also suggests looking out for sunscreens that have UVA screening ingredients: stabilised avobenzone, Mexoryl, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

• There are also organic sunscreens available, that don’t contain potentially harmful chemicals.

• Apply at least two tablespoons of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two to three hours, or after swimming.

• A void direct sunlight between 10am and 3pm. Babies under a year should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

• Wear protective clothing and hats, preferably with a high UPF or ultraviolet protection factor.

• Don’t use tanning booths. They use UVA rays that can give off as much as 12 times more radiation than the sun. Exposure to these beds in your youth substantially increases your risk of developing melanoma.

With all of the concerns about UVA protection, people are probably wondering which sunscreen to choose. Look out for sunscreens that have the new Cansa SunSmart Choice Seal. A list of sunscreens that adhere to the EU Colipa standards is also available on the Cansa website, and it will be regularly updated.

Cansa’s toll-free line is 0800 22 66 22 or download the list: cansa.org.za/cansa-on-sunscreen-available-insouth-africa/

Original Cansa SunSmart logo

New Cansa SunSmart logo

December 2012 / January 2013

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nutrition

raising a vegetarian With many parents opting for meat-free diets, for themselves and their children, there are concerns about possible nutritional

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December 2012 / January 2013

when I suddenly embraced his regimen of dense veggie and legume soups, and salads with nuts, seeds and cheese.

from the start It was only when we chose to have children that I had doubts. Like many vegetarian parents-to-be, we were confronted by questions from the future grandparents and other concerned omnivores in our circle. Could we really be sure our precious progeny would have all the protein, iron and other nutrients usually associated with meat, which they needed to be healthy and smart? Today, if we didn’t have two robust teenage sons as reassurance, we’d have a slew of health studies and recommended nutritional guidelines to back up our decision. A study at Loma Linda University in California showed that

vegetarians live some seven years longer than meateaters, and vegans, 15 years longer. The findings were confirmed by the China-Cornell-Oxford Project, the most extensive 20-year study on diet and health to date, which found that Chinese people, who eat the least fat and animal produce, run the lowest risk of cancer, heart attack and other chronic degenerative diseases. If this is not convincing enough, a UK study that tracked 6 000 vegetarians and 5 000 meat-eaters for 12 years found the vegetarians were 40 percent less likely to die from cancer in that time, and 20 percent less likely to die from other diseases. A study by the University of California has even found that children on a vegetarian diet grew taller than meat-eating children, which is no surprise, because my eldest stands 1,8m tall in his socks.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

a

vegetarian diet is the considered choice for many parents and their children these days. Independent research firm Harris Interactive reports that the number of vegetarian youth in the United States has increased by 70 percent in the past few years, and there are similar trends in South Africa too. This is attributed to growing environmental and animal welfare awareness and evidence of the health benefits. It was more of a knee jerk emotional reaction that prompted me to drop meat. As a fledgling reporter I covered a news story about a truck full of sheep that had overturned on a freeway. “They’re headed for the abattoir anyway,” quipped the photographer, as he snapped the bleating survivors. But face to woolly face with what I, too, would normally have considered lunch, I balked. My partner, a longtime vegetarian, said nothing

deficiencies. GLYNIS HORNING seeks advice.

nutritional benefits South African dieticians are equally positive about the benefits of vegetarianism. Berna Harmse, president of the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (Adsa), says the advantages include “a lower intake of cholesterol and saturated fats, and a higher intake of fruit, vegetables and fibre, which in turn results in eating fewer sweet and salty snacks and fast foods”. She adds, “Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and cancer.” The only possible disadvantage to being a vegetarian or raising one, Harmse says, could be the planning, purchasing and preparing of the food needed to maintain an adequate diet. “Although there is much more variety available in the

are four to six months old, though vegan mothers may require iron supplements. After that, babies will need some extra dietary iron, which is readily supplied by iron-fortified rice cereal. For a nutritional guide, visit nutripaeds.co.za/vegetarian-diets/ To play it safe, Harmse and fellow Adsa dietician Dianne Ivison suggest possible supplementation as vegetarian children grow. “This might include iron, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium and omega-3 or flax oil,” says Ivison. “It would need to be assessed individually, as many foods are already supplemented with these vitamins and minerals.”

Parents of vegan children, who eat no animal produce, need to plan their diets particularly carefully, preferably in consultation with a dietician.

Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and cancer. shops and markets these days, it can still be a bit more time-consuming.” In response to fears of deficiencies during vulnerable periods such as pregnancy, infancy and adolescence, she says, “Current nutritional thinking is that following a properly planned vegetarian diet can be beneficial for all stages of life, including these.

There is no cause for concern if a variety of foods are consumed to ensure adequate intake.” Healthy, full-term babies can meet all their iron requirements with breast milk or iron-fortified soy formula until they

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personally speaking Except for vitamin B12 and a folic acid supplement, which is recommended for most pregnant moms, I ate our usual lactoovo-vegetarian fare through a picture-perfect pregnancy, and produced a beautiful son who I breast-fed for 18 months, introducing him to rice cereal and our foods from six months.

Three years later I repeated the routine with his brother. Both are now healthy, high-achieving teenagers and, though we have left the choice entirely with them, avid vegetarians.

As the younger wrote recently in a school project, “I’m

know your veggie-eaters Vegans eat no animal products, including eggs or dairy.

Vegetarians eat no red meat but some may eat chicken or fish.

Lacto-ovo-vegetarians eat eggs and dairy products, but no meat.

Pescetarians eat fish, but no meat or poultry.

Fruitarians eat only fruit, nuts and seeds.

Flexitarians (a relatively new term) follow a meat-free diet for a few days a week.

tips for feeding a vegetarian child • Variety is key.

• Look for fortified foods with calcium, iron and vitamin B12, including iron-fortified breakfast cereals and soy milk-based products.

• Keep reintroducing foods.

• Be adventurous. Find new ways to incorporate soya, beans and lentils in soups and stews.

They are one of your most nutritious plant protein sources, say the dieticians.

• Be sneaky. Add mashed kidney beans or grated butternut, carrot or beetroot to muffins, cottage pies and other favourites; add omega3-rich flaxseeds ground in a coffee grinder to soups, salads and porridge.

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nutrition

meat-free for my health and for the planet.” Tammy Fry, 31, of Durban, shares those concerns and will be passing them on to her sons Josh, four, and Kai, who is just six months. “I stopped eating meat when I was three,” says the marketing director for Fry Group Foods, and driver of South Africa’s Meatless Monday campaign. “My mom was vegetarian, but didn’t set out to influence us. She just answered our questions honestly, which I think lots of adults don’t do, perhaps because they don’t want to think through the answers themselves,” says Tammy.

Her two younger sisters joined her and when their father, in construction at the time, was contracted to build a piggery, “seeing it in operation was the final push to join us”. But Wally Fry missed the taste and texture of meat.

He started experimenting in the kitchen, and ended up launching a family business developing vegan food that tasted like meat and was packed with protein.

Today all the Frys are vegetarian “and fighting fit”.

Tammy, who is now largely vegan, represented the national karate team for more than 10 years. She and her father are fifth dans, and her mom and sisters are third dans.

“We’ve all got masses of energy,” she grins. “I breastfed both my boys, and started Josh on rice cereal, organic fruit and veggies, soya milk and smoothies, with snacks of soya yoghurt, nuts, beans and cottage cheese.” Other sources of protein now include raw nuts, seeds, legumes, and meat substitutes. “Today meat substitutes range from burger patties and sausages to schnitzels, pies and nuggets, and are great for lunchboxes, braais and visiting friends.”

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December 2012 / January 2013

useful contacts Association for Dietetics SA 011 061 5000, info@adsa. org.za or visit adsa.org.za SA Vegan Society 082 828 5275, info@vegansociety.co.za or visit vegansociety.org.za Vegetarian Society of SA vegsocsa@mweb.co.za

lunchbox snacks for vegetarians Use a cool box in summer so foods stay fresh and crisp, and pack: • trail mix – dried fruits with nuts and seeds; • soft dried fruits such as apple rings, apricots and raisins; • rice cakes, plain or coated with yoghurt or carob; • crackers with hummus, avocado dip, nut butters or vegetable extract; • add to the above baby carrots, tomatoes and celery sticks; • fruit-sweetened biscuits or date balls; • popcorn • baby bananas, naartjie segments, strawberries; • soya shakes; • soya yoghurt; and • meat-free nuggets or pops.

Respectful Recipes (Produced by The Society for Animals in Distress, R200 plus R35 for postage or delivery) All the recipes in this book were submitted by supporters of The Society for Animals in Distress.

The society supports Meat-Free Mondays (and Tuesdays to Sundays). But, whether you want to eat meat-free once a week or for life, you’re sure to find something in this book, with its delicious, easy, meat-alternative dishes. All proceeds from the sale of this book go towards the society to further their work with thousands of animals in townships and informal settlements. For a copy, contact: 083 643 9480, animals@animalsindistress. org.za or visit animalsindistress.org.za

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debate

the sun always shines on tv It can be a convenient babysitter, an antidote to a busy day or an entertaining source of news.

CHILD MAGAZINE asks two mothers why they turn the telly on, or off, in their homes.

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

Turn on by CATH JENKIN Television time in our house is a family experience. We’re true fans of technology and if my seven-year-old daughter has a question I can’t answer, her first response is always, “Mom, ask Google”. She has been able to learn so much through the use of technology and I am a proud enabler of her digital obsession. We’re the family that plays on computers, tablets and phones.

It is the same with TV. We read a story every night before bedtime, but once the school day is over and her homework is done, we’re quite happy for her to feast her eyes on some televised entertainment. It is through television that she’s learnt about the animal kingdom, watched fascinating documentaries about the pyramids in Giza and enjoyed a little downtime with The Little Mermaid.

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and projects. Even at Grade 1 level, there are various mental demands. She deserves and needs downtime and a cuddle on the couch while we enjoy a family movie.

TV can teach. Educational programming has filled in many of the gaps we haven’t been able to. When my daughter has wanted to learn more about something, we’ve often been able to find television material that presents information to her in an easily understandable format. This allows her to enjoy the learning experience, rather than having it forced upon her. Her school life is busy with homework, extramurals

Watch, but with limits. I set guidelines and time limits though, and believe that this principle can and should be applied to any element of parenting. Just as you shouldn’t feed your child too much sugar, you shouldn’t let them watch too much television. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child’s “total media time, with entertainment media”, should be limited to no more than one to two hours of quality programming per day, and not at all for children younger than two. Even as a pro-television parent, I agree with this, and that entertainment time should be mostly devoted to interactive and educational content.

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debate

It limits language development. Because TV is a visual medium it naturally relies on visuals at the expense of language. This means children may battle to process information without the visual aid they have become so used to on TV. Not good when we expect them to engage and learn in a school environment where there are no cartoon characters to entertain and distract.

The occasional babysitter. Yes, the television is an easy babysitter and I know I am guilty of that practice too sometimes.

Any parent who claims they haven’t at some point used the television to grab a five-minute break is probably lying.

With good guidelines, restricted access to unsuitable content and by making television something we enjoy together, we believe it can have some merits.

Judith Graham, a human development specialist at the University of Maine, says children younger than two should not be watching any television, as most of their learning should be done while playing and interacting with others.

Some screen time may be beneficial for school-going children if it has some educational content. To make TV time more beneficial, she suggests the following: ask your child questions about what is about to happen; turn down the volume when the adverts come on; use the characters from popular TV shows to create stories or draw pictures and question what the characters are doing to encourage your child to form their own opinions or solve problems raised on the show.

Disney Junior has been rated the most popular dedicated preschool channel for the past year. The channel says its programming invites parents to join their children in the experience, while incorporating learning and development themes for children between the ages of two and seven.

Turn off by CHRISTINA CASTLE I was recently making small talk with a doctor. You know, the sort of conversation you have when you have an hour to kill with someone you don’t know from a hole in the ground. We’d done the standard “how many children have you got?”, “how old are they?” and “where are you from?” kind of stuff. Thinking I’d hit the jackpot of small talk, I said, “Hey, did you watch the Olympics?” “We don’t have a TV,” said the sanctimonious little surgeon. Next.

Actually, he wasn’t sanctimonious at all. I was just feeling guilty knowing my boys had just completed a marathon of TV watching on the weekend. So I consulted another medical professional, my walking mate Victoria Mayer, who also happens to be a psychologist, and offloaded my guilt about the boys’ screen habits. While she made me feel much better by reminding me that they also spend many hours each week on sports fields; she suggested a few cons to their watching television.

TV stifles creativity. Children often battle to come up with something completely new in the playground. TV can certainly influence a child’s play. Instead of just creating make-believe characters, stories or settings, they tend to re-enact what they see on the box. Is this why my 12 year old still refers to himself as the wrestling superstar, John Cena, and me as The Undertaker?

TV is addictive. It’s just too easy to turn it on and sit in front of it for hours, as was the case with the boys’ marathon Olympics viewing session: swimming turned into cycling, which turned into archery, and then into gymnastics. Six hours later the rugby was on and they had not moved, except to walk to the fridge.

It eats into the precious time you could use to be doing something else. Don’t let the box detract from time that could be spent playing with friends, training for the Olympics, painting a masterpiece or building a Monopoly empire together.

Violent programmes can affect your child’s behaviour. The American Psychiatric Association indicates that children’s programmes can be 50 to 60 times more violent than prime-time shows for adults, and some cartoons average more than 80 violent acts per hour. Former minister of home affairs, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, speaking at the Film and Publications Board’s national forum earlier this year, said studies show that “without doubt”, exposure to television contributes to aggressive behaviour in children.

TV can lead to obesity. A study of teenagers in the Western Cape by UCT’s Research Unit for Exercise Science and Sports found that of the children surveyed, those who watched more than three or four hours of TV a day, had a greater body mass index. Television encourages a more sedentary lifestyle, putting children at risk of obesity and related diseases.

If your children do watch TV, adopt the “everything in moderation” approach.

• Choose programmes that are educational and age appropriate.

• Pre-record a variety of appropriate programmes and have them at the ready.

• Make TV viewing an activity. Watch it with them, interact and discuss what it is you are watching. Cartoon Network celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, an achievement made possible partly because it encourages “mutual viewing”, where parents and children enjoy the network’s classic cartoons and more contemporary animation together, says Alan Musa, vice president and general manager of the Middle East and Africa Pan Region for Turner Broadcasting System. Their shows, while entertaining, also contain a simple message for children of all ages.

• Find alternative activities, such as building blocks or a jigsaw puzzle, that allow your child quiet time and enable you to get on with dinner.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics says there should not be a TV in your child’s room and viewing time should be limited.

• Help children to consider advertisements critically. Explain that they are often there to sell us things we don’t really need. Of the three branded Disney TV channels available in this country, only Disney XD is fully commercial. But, as part of its commitment to improving the health of young viewers, all food advertisements must comply with The Walt Disney Company’s nutritional guidelines. This means children will not be exposed to marketing from companies selling junk food.

• Adhere to the age restrictions on shows and enforce your own if necessary.

You can control which channels your child can access, as well as the language settings.

• Be a role model and limit your viewing time.

South Africa is a co-signee of the Africa Charter on Children’s Broadcasting, which was endorsed in 1997. It states:

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1 Children should have programmes of high quality, made specifically for them

5 Children’s programmes should create opportunities for learning and empowerment

and which do not exploit them at any stage of the production process. These programmes, in addition to entertaining, should allow children to develop physically, mentally and socially to their fullest potential.

2 While recognising that children’s broadcasting will be funded through various mechanisms including advertising, sponsorship and merchandising, children should be protected from commercial exploitation.

3 While endorsing the child’s right to freedom of expression, thought, conscience and religion, and protection against economic exploitation, children must have equitable access to programmes and, whenever possible, to the production of programmes.

4 Children should hear, see and express themselves, their culture, their language and their life experiences, through the electronic media that affirms their sense of self, community and place.

to promote and support the child’s right to education and development. Children’s programmes should promote an awareness and appreciation of other cultures in parallel with the child’s own cultural background. To facilitate this there should be ongoing research into the child audience, including the child’s needs and wants.

6 Children’s programmes should be wide-ranging in genre and content, but should not include gratuitous scenes and sounds of violence and sex through any audio or visual medium.

7 Children’s programmes should be aired in regular time slots when children are available to listen and view, and/or be distributed via other widely accessible media or technologies.

8 Sufficient resources, technical, financial and other, must be made available to make these programmes to the highest possible standards.

December 2012 / January 2013

magazine cape town

magazine cape town

December 2012 / January 2013

27

book extract

cookout When the days get longer and the nights get warmer, there’s nothing better than eating outside around a fire. CHRISTINE PHILLIPS offers

sweet & fruity chicken kebabs Makes about 8 • • • • • • • •

1 red pepper 1 red onion 1 pineapple 2 chicken breasts ½ cup sweet chilli sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil salt and pepper

1 Cut the red pepper, onion, pineapple and chicken into large chunks that are similar in size.

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December 2012 / January 2013

2 Mix the sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, oil, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl.

3 Toss the chicken chunks into the sauce mixture, making sure they are properly coated.

4 Push the chunks of red pepper, onion, pineapple and chicken onto skewers.

5 Place the skewers under the grill or on the braai until cooked as you like it.

tip:

Soak wooden skewers in hot water before using them to prevent them from burning in the heat before the food is cooked.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHs / Illustrations: colette baillie / shutterSTOCK.COM

some much-loved recipes that always go down a treat.

toasted sarmies 1 Spread both sides of each slice of bread with butter.

2 Place your choice of filling between two

• Camembert cheese and caramelised onions • Tuna and mayonnaise • Chicken and mayonnaise • Meatballs and chutney

slices of bread.

3 Wrap the sandwich in foil and place it on the braai for three minutes a side.

Filling ideas • Cheese and ham • Goat’s cheese and tomato jam

tip: Don’t use fresh tomatoes when you make the sandwiches in advance, as the bread will become soggy.

Great idea The first night at your camping destination is always loads of work for moms and dads.

Setting up tents and getting settled always takes a while, and the children normally get hungry before parents are ready for dinner. I find these toasted sarmies are wonderful meals for your first night camping, because you can fill them with anything and they only take five to six minutes to make on the braai.

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December 2012 / January 2013

29

book extract

mini veggie burgers

4 Blend the mixture with a food processor

This is a great recipe to make with children as they love to get their hands dirty while helping to form the vegetable patties.

5 A dd the remainder of the lentils,

until the chickpeas are broken down.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 410g tin lentils, rinsed and cooked 2 onions 5ml vegetable seasoning 2 teaspoons crushed garlic 1 410g tin chickpeas, rinsed and cooked olive oil 1 egg 3 tablespoons chopped coriander 2 grated carrots 2 grated baby marrows 1 freshly squeezed lemon 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup stale breadcrumbs ½ cup oats plain flour for dusting

1 Cook and drain the lentils.

2 Fry the onions with the vegetable seasoning and garlic until golden brown.

3 Combine the chickpeas, half the lentils, egg, coriander, carrots, baby marrow, fresh lemon juice and cooked onions in a big bowl.

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December 2012 / January 2013

breadcrumbs and oats. If your mixture is too runny, add more oats.

6 Mix all the ingredients together well, adding salt and pepper to taste.

7 Divide the mixture into small portions and flatten them gently into patties.

8 Toss the patties in flour and place them on a tray.

9 Fry each patty in a little oil for four minutes, or until they are golden brown.

10 Serve in a roll or in mini pitas with tomato sauce, or plain yoghurt and mint.

Chickpeas are a rich source of iron, calcium, magnesium, fibre and protein.

Lentils are low in cholesterol and sodium. Use lentils to make hummus, a healthy dip for veggies.

magazine cape town

all bran & sunflower seed rusks Bake these rusks before you go camping and enjoy them with a cup of tea early in the morning.

• • • • • • • •

500g melted butter 500ml maas or soured milk 15ml vanilla essence 6 cups flour 50ml baking powder 5ml salt 1½ cups sugar 3 cups bran flakes lightly crushed

• 1 cup sunflower seeds • ½ cup linseeds

1 Mix the melted butter, maas or soured milk and vanilla essence together.

2 S ift the flour, baking powder and salt together.

3 Mix all the ingredients together well.

4 Place in two greased baking trays and squash down.

5 Bake at 180°C for 45 minutes.

6 Take out and cut into finger biscuits; put back onto the baking tray.

7 Leave in a slightly opened oven to dry out for three hours at 120°C.

Sunflower seeds can be eaten as they are or toasted. They are used in different kinds of dishes, such as salads or baked goods. They can also replace nuts in most recipes.

about the book Qualified chef, founder of the Little Cooks Club and mom of three, Christine Phillips, created and published the Timeless Family Food Journal to capture some of the precious moments her family has shared in the kitchen. The beautiful book, packed with useful family recipes, also has space for you to make notes, rate your favourite dishes and paste photographs of your family’s special cooking memories.

Christine includes information about the importance of good nutrition and the effect of diet on childhood ailments, home-made baby foods and nutritious snack foods for toddlers, tips for packing healthy, but exciting, lunchboxes and easy meals to cook during the week. She also shares her cupboard must-haves and kitchen tips. This is more than just a cookery book. It’s also a way of creating a culinary legacy that can be passed on to your children, and hopefully theirs too. To order, contact headoffice@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit tffj.co.za. For more about Little Cooks Club, visit littlecooksclub.co.za

magazine cape town

December 2012 / January 2013

31

fyi

safety first CHILD MAGAZINE suggests 20 smart things you can do to keep your family safe this summer.

2

1

Keep children away from braais and fires and keep spray cans away from any sources of heat. The Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa says about 230 children die annually of burns because an adult wasn’t watching them.

3

Invest in a good medical kit that includes a hydrogel-based dressing in case of any burns.

Attend a paediatric course and put emergency numbers in your phone and on your fridge.

A child can be dead in half an hour if left in a car, especially on a hot day, says Gary Ronald of the Automobile Association. Childsafe South Africa reports that on days when the temperature is around 32°C, it can reach 43°C in a parked car within just 90 seconds and 54,4°C within 10 minutes. Babies especially lose moisture rapidly, and in large quantities, and will become severely dehydrated. Don’t think that leaving a window open or parking in the shade will help. Rather don’t leave your child in the car.

4

Run cold water over affected areas if a burn is minor. Never put butter, petroleum jelly or any other creams onto a burn. For deep white burns, cover the area with a sheet and seek immediate medical attention. Wash chemical burns under flowing water and get medical help.

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December 2012 / January 2013

5 magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

No single barrier is foolproof when it comes to preventing drowning accidents, so it is best to rely on a number of layers of safety, says Daan den Hollander, consultant trauma surgeon and regional director of Childsafe KZN. Combine various safety measures such as adult supervision, a cover for when the pool is not in use and a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate.

6

Make sure your pool’s drain is protected with a dome-shaped cap, a safety vacuum release system or by marking the off switch on the pool pump. Entrapment occurs when a child’s hair or part of their body gets caught in the drain.

7

As a passer-by, you have the right to get involved if you see a child locked in a blazing hot car. Gary says call for help from the police and medics, as you have no idea of how long the child has been in the vehicle. Break a window away from the child and place them outside the car in a shady or cool place.

8

Riding an escalator barefoot is a no-no, but clunky, rubber-soled footwear can also be risky. Avoid using an escalator if you are carrying a child and don’t attempt to push a pram onto one; rather take the elevator. If you do use one with a small child, make sure to hold their hand and don’t allow them to sit or play on the escalator.

9

Escalators can be dangerous if not used properly. Avoid potential hazards by standing in the centre of the stair, away from the sides.

Stay clear of the pinch areas and be extra careful to step over the comb plate when getting on or off.

Do not allow children who can’t swim near a pool unless they are supervised. Touch supervision means that the child should be within arm’s reach of their caregiver, whose only focus should be on the child.

10

Experienced swimming teacher Lee-Anne McQueen has published a Swim Savvy I can swim! (swimsavvy.co.za) progress journal for children and parents. The handy journal includes water safety rules, such as to never swim without an adult watching, to never push others in or around the water and to avoid running around the slippery edges of the pool.

There’s also advice for getting in and out of the pool safely. The water safety checklist for parents says: know where your children are at all times when they’re near water; make sure the pool is covered if not in use and that the gate is closed properly; take turns watching the children, keep children within your reach at all times in the water, don’t take your eyes off children at all if there is water, and this includes a pond or even the bath and triple check the water area when you leave to make sure that no children have been left behind or have slipped into the water.

Handy safety tip for your child: if you feel as if you are getting into trouble and can’t reach the side of the pool, don’t be afraid, just be a star. Float like a starfish and shout for help.

magazine cape town

December 2012 / January 2013

33

fyi

Children can drown in less than three centimetres of water, so they should be supervised around any form of water,

11

including paddling pools and ponds. They should be taught how to swim as soon as possible after turning four. However, those who swim safely in a pool may not be safe in large

bodies of water. Always keep an eye on children swimming or playing

12

Pool fences should enclose the pool on all sides, be a minimum height

of 1,2 metres and have a gap

near the sea or a dam. Only allow swimming in the ocean if a lifeguard is

of less than 10 centimetres

on duty.

underneath, says Den Hollander.

13

Never let your children dive into water if you don’t know the depth. Always check first for any submerged objects.

14

Children should wear flotation devices, such as a life jacket, during water activities. Arm bands or floating devices for the pool can be used, but Den Hollander says that he can’t find any evidence of their effectiveness in preventing

drowning.

“What everyone does agree on is that they are not an alternative to supervision.

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December 2012 / January 2013

magazine cape town

Cover electrical sockets and keep the

Always run the cold water in the bath

electrical cords of appliances short so

first and lower the temperature

that they can’t easily be pulled off.

of your geyser to 50°C or less.

16

17

Make sure toxic pool chemicals are packed away or closed with childproof lids.

18 15

magazine cape town

If you buy a Christmas tree this year, make sure it is labelled as ”fire resistant”. Only use flameresistant, non-breakable decorations and don’t include lit candles.

19

Check all the tree

lights

before using

20

them. Discard lights that

are

broken,

have cracked sockets or frayed wires as these could be an electrical hazard.

6 500 children die annually from

accidental injuries – Childsafe Put hot liquids or pots with hot food in the centre of a table or counter; never on the edge where they can be reached.

The risk of accidents occurring increases over the holidays, says Childsafe SA. Children under the age of five are the most vulnerable, so make sure you create a safe environment, even while you are away on holiday, and warn them of potential dangers.

December 2012 / January 2013

35

ideas

moment. Bring the small screen alive by tackling a few of these challenges with your family. By ANÉL LEWIS

masterchef

minute to win It

We were all enthralled by MasterChef Australia,

This is your chance to test your family’s skill and patience, using ordinary household items. Many of the challenges look easy; but don’t be deceived.

They often require intense concentration and talent.

Put 10 or so challenges, of varying difficulty, into a jar. Each person takes a turn to choose one, which has to be completed in just 60 seconds. Possible games include “junk in the trunk”: fill an empty tissue box with eight ping-pong balls and attach it to the contestant’s belt. They may only use the movement of their body, not their hands, to throw the balls onto the floor before the 60-seconds buzzer sounds. In “egg roll”, the contestant must roll an egg around a tray to collect several stickers. They may not touch the egg, but the game can continue if the egg drops and does not break. In “Christmas ball”, the game starts with the contestant standing behind a Christmas ornament, holding a gift box. They have 60 seconds to fan the ball, using only the gift box, to a designated end zone. Make sure there is much cheering and excitement as contestants pit their skills to “win it” in only one minute.

and then Durbanite Deena Naidoo walked off with the grand prize in South Africa’s first MasterChef.

I’m sure you watched as the contestants struggled to chop those onions, or identify different spices, in their bid for the title. Now there’s Junior MasterChef, where aspirant young cooks battle it out for gastronomic glory. Why not test your family’s culinary skills with your own version of the show? Include various challenges, such as a blind tasting, or place several herbs on a tray and ask

w

hile your children will tell you without any compunction that you are definitely not Smarter than a Fifth Grader, and that you are more likely The Weakest Link, there are plenty of popular game shows that you can play at home with contestants of all ages. All you need are a few household items, a competitive spirit and plenty of enthusiasm.

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December 2012 / January 2013

your family to identify them. Cook a pot of curry or a stew, and get your family to list the ingredients.

Or, better yet, prepare a dish that is missing a vital ingredient and challenge your family to guess what it is. You could also have cook-offs. Set a timed challenge: let the older children compete against each other to see who can make the tastiest pasta or most decadent dessert. The winner gets excused from kitchen chores for the week or gets to eat at a restaurant of their choice.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

get real

Reality TV shows and game shows are all the rage at the

come dine with me

fear factor

Everyone gets a turn to cook a meal for the rest

Okay, so eating cockroaches or grasshoppers is

of the family. At the end of the evening, the meal

probably not going to fly with the family as a fun

is scored out of 10, and the host with the most

holiday activity. But why not give the reality show

points at the end of the week wins. This is a great

a new, slightly more palatable twist by playing

way to take the monotony out of weekday meals.

Fear Factor with different foods? Blindfold each

Perhaps try this one during the holiday, when the

contestant and get them to sample an array of

children will have time to find interesting recipes,

dishes of different textures and tastes. Throw

come up with a menu and send you off to buy

avocado, olive oil and chilli into the mix, to make for

the ingredients. Laying the table and making

an interesting gastronomic challenge. The person

the meal look presentable is also part of the

who can stomach the most taste tests wins.

challenge, so remember to score each other on the whole experience.

noot vir noot wipeout In the television version, contestants tackle a seemingly impossible obstacle course littered with moving targets, balls that show no mercy, and foam and water sprays. Your garden version may not be on quite the same scale, but it can still test your family’s agility and wile. In summer, use your pool as part of the course. Just make sure children are supervised at all times and that only confident swimmers tackle the more difficult challenges. You can use a Lilo, a pool noodle and other items to create interesting challenges.

On terra firma, use garden furniture as obstacles – make them run through, jump over and slide under various objects.

magazine cape town

This game, based on the popular Afrikaans show

idols All the world’s a stage; even if that stage is in your lounge or your garden. Children of all ages will love the opportunity to perform for family and friends. Create an audition area and assign each child a song or musical genre. You can record the performance so that they can listen to or watch themselves sing. Give each child a turn to be a “judge”, where they can make a few comments.

Hopefully there won’t be any budding Randalls in your Idols audition. Everyone can then vote for their favourite performance. Remember to keep it fun and encouraging, so that everyone has the confidence to grab the microphone.

Noot vir Noot, or note for note, can be adapted for children of all ages. Record a selection of music and get your contestants to name the songs. Play the first couple of notes of a song and the first person to shout out the song’s title wins. You can also test your family’s lyrical knowledge. Type out a few lines of a song, omitting key words, and get your children to fill in the blanks. You can also find pictures of popular artists and get them to match the singer to the song.

To download this article, visit childmag.co.za/ content/game-shows

December 2012 / January 2013

37

our stories

stop to smell the roses Four families went looking for a life beyond the suburban standard and found a richer sense of family and self-fulfillment. By LUCILLE KEMP

a

merican author Charles Bukowski was certainly onto something when he asked how a man could enjoy being awakened by an alarm and fighting traffic to get to a place where “essentially you make lots of money for somebody else and are asked to be grateful for the opportunity to do so”. If you feel as if life has become an endless cycle and you’ve forgotten why you’re doing what you’re doing, you might need to be reminded that we’re living in a time of options. You can find a job with flexible hours or negotiate to work remotely more often; you can innovate, freelance or consult. Earning a living certainly no longer takes place only between the hours of nine and five.

Susie Leblond’s husband needed to be in Mauritius to set up an office there for his IT business. They had been there before, and loved it. “We decided that living on the island for six months while the children are still young would be an exciting adventure, plus my work as a photographer is flexible and seasonal so it was easy to pack up and go.”

Six years ago, a life removed from the rat race beckoned Cape Town-based Catriona Ross. She had a demanding job in

magazine publishing, but she enjoyed it, her friends were close by and she had her book club and belly dancing, but she realized she didn’t handle stress well, and that she actually wanted to be self-employed and

With so many people working online I can imagine more people choosing this lifestyle. change is needed Johanita and Don Whitaker, and their son Aaron, moved from the Bluff in Durban to Underberg in the Drakensberg. Don was unhappy in his job and Johanita sought a close community. “We had been on holiday to Underberg a few times and I fell in love with the peaceful village, so my husband applied for a job and here we are,” she says.

Cape Town-based Heike Allerton and her family lived happily in Hout Bay until the end of last year, but life was busy. “We realized that our children were growing up fast and we were not spending the kind of time with them that we really wanted to. Also, I could not get my daughter into any of the popular southern suburbs schools, even though she had been on a waiting list for four years, and the politics and pressure of many of the mainstream schools did not appeal.” Once they started exploring other options they realized that the town of Greyton ticked all the boxes; from safety and proximity to the city to beautiful and idyllic surrounds.

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December 2012 / January 2013

for life to slow down and mean more. After freelancing for a few years, Catriona was ready to make the move. Just months into looking at places she met David de Villiers, the farmer who would become her husband.

They’ve been married for three years and live on a working fruit farm in Simondium, close to Stellenbosch, with their one-yearold daughter, Nina.

number one consideration Schooling was probably the major factor in determining where the Allertons would stay.

“We discovered Greyton House Village School, which offers an excellent primary school education in a non-pressured environment, and a fully equipped high school is being built.” Heike says that many families send their children to boarding school as weekly boarders in the southern suburbs, Somerset West or Stellenbosch and there are also a number of families who home-school their children.

Johanita says Aaron goes to Underberg Primary where the classes are small and a magazine cape town

Samuel and Tyler Allerton in Greyton

respect and love for nature is instilled. “The impact on Aaron has been phenomenal; he has become almost ‘Zen-like’,” muses Johanita. Though Nina is still young, schools are front of mind and Catriona has her eye on Bridge House School in Franschhoek. She has also found good government schools in Paarl with some bilingual options too.

the teething period Life in the slow lane is, of course, not perfect, but it is clear that these families’ gripes are minor and transient. Susie says, “Saying goodbye to much-loved grannies and aunties is really hard for little people who have no concept of time, and they both missed their special Cape Town friends, but were easily distracted by all the new experiences on offer.”

Catriona finds that although different, there are still stresses, but the level is far less. “During harvest season, which can last up to six months, I see very little of David.” Johanita’s biggest complaints are Underberg’s frequent power outages and that you have to drive 111km to get to the nearest dentist.

For Heike it’s the grocery shopping, which requires a 20-minute drive to Hermanus or Caledon.

real change is felt Catriona says her happiness is now defined by experiences, not things and Susie feels the same about her six months on the island. “It was the first time in a long while that I wasn’t distracted by work, unanswered emails, clients, friends or family, and got to be just Mom, who spent hours with her children in the pool or on the beach building sandcastles.”

Village living is life as Johanita has never known it before. “About a month ago, on the day I had to get a few things for Aaron’s birthday the following day, none of the bank ATMs and card machines were working. The store manager came to me and said, ‘Don’t worry Ma’am, magazine cape town

take your shopping and come pay for it when we are back online or at your earliest convenience.’ I nearly fell over backwards.”

Susie tells of a standout moment when she took her children to a birthday party on the beach and watched them stare in a mixture of horror and delight as the host’s neighbour made an impromptu show of gutting a 1,2 metre-long dorado right there on the rocks. “My daughter Katie, who before Mauritius didn’t like to get her feet dirty, proudly held the fish’s eyeball and squealed.”

The Allertons’s quality of life is amplified by the distinct seasons. “In spring we see lambs and foals being born and an unbelievable display of flowers. In winter snow is visible on the mountains and fireplaces sizzle and warm the home.” Clean country living clearly has all entranced, as is evident in Johantia’s remarks, “I love that we are all much healthier, that I can walk my dogs at the dam down the road, that my boy can play outside and ride his bike safely because everyone knows everyone, and that people ask how you are because they really are interested.”

Heike shares the sentiment, saying that in Greyton there is an invisible and protective circle of some kind as people watch out for each other. Heike notes there are fewer distractions and less time spent in traffic, which gives children more time to catch tadpoles, ride bikes and build forts. “There are quite a few families who have also made the move out here for similar reasons, showing a collective consciousness and desire to do things in a better, different and simpler way.

With so many people working online I can imagine more people choosing this lifestyle.” Although the Allertons have left the life they once knew, they say they are actually closer now to their loved ones. “We probably spend more quality time with friends and family than we did before as whole weekends are spent with each other.”

December 2012 / January 2013

39

resource

presents from the

heart

As Mother Teresa said, “It’s not about how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”

Child magazine offers a selection of gift concepts that will delight children of all ages.

gifts with wheels

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December 2012 / January 2013

Speedy heels Whether it is roller shoes or heel skates, your primary-schooler with her bottomless tank of energy will love the extra boost of speed and exhilaration these wheels promise to give.

Crawl, baby Toys that move, roll or slide away from your baby will encourage them to crawl.

A writing desk on wheels Children need a place where they can sit and do their homework. This desk can be moved easily, as and when they decide to redecorate their rooms.

Not just for acrobatic acts A unicycle is a fun alternative to the bicycle, and will improve your child’s core strength and balance.

Boards of all shapes Skateboards, carver boards and snakeboards will be a hit with your older child. Invest in some knee and elbow guards for younger boarders, just in case.

Water wheels Bath toys with wheels, gear wheels and cogs will keep budding engineers entertained.

Books with pop-ups, flaps and tabs These provide a multisensory experience for your child as they discover the world of books.

E-book readers Download books onto your computer tablet or smartphone.

These books are easy to use and give you quick and easy access to a variety of content.

First edition books or collectors’ sets If your child is an avid reader and has a favourite author, he will love this present.

If she has a thirst for interesting facts, then a volume of encyclopaedias will be a welcomed gift.

Journal Get your child a special book or diary where they can record their thoughts, dreams and memories. They can also use the book to start writing their own stories.

Board games Switch off the television and have some old-fashioned fun with traditional board games that involve making words or guessing the names of things.

Priceless Have your child’s name engraved on a piece of jewellery or stationery.

Poster perfect A selection of passages from the classics can be designed to

form an artistic poster for your child’s bedroom wall.

Art space A blackboard or magnetic whiteboard will allow your child to unleash their creativity, while saving the paint on your walls from their artistic scribblings.

Fridge poetry Play with magnetic words or letters to create phrases and sentences. Magnets are only suitable for older children.

gifts that make a noise Musical instruments You can get bongo or djembe drums (skin-covered drum) for children of all ages. Toddlers love tinkering on a xylophone, or any kind of instrument that makes music and noise.

Babies can make their first foray into the world of music with rattles, wooden musical instruments (flutes) and even a tambourine. As children get older, they will try their hand at a keyboard, “electric” guitar and drums. You also get roll-up pianos and keyboards that are compact and easy to carry around.

Harmonica This pocket instrument can be quite costly, but it’s a good investment to buy for a child that shows signs of having musical talent.

gifts with words

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Cool cars Cars of all shapes and speeds will be appreciated, but the most popular are those that your child will “rev” and release for hours. They come in various models and sizes.

I want to ride my bicycle A tricycle is likely to be the first mode of real wheels for your toddler as they master the art of peddling.

Then they will move onto a bicycle, balance bike, scooter or electric ride-on.

Construction vehicles Large, plastic construction vehicles are easy for young toddlers to grab and push in the garden.

Wagons These can be used to load toys, wooden blocks and other educational items.

Plush horse on wheels This mobile steed is a step-up from the traditional, stationary rocking horse.

Go fast, go-kart Older children will love to race in a go-kart. Look out for tracks in your area where they can compete safely against friends.

Pram for dolly Children love to mimic, so “playing mommy” with their pram will bring much enjoyment. They’ll probably take their soft toys and dolls around the house and to the shops. Shopping carts are also popular.

Push and pull toys Think wooden or plastic trolleys, wheelbarrows or dogs that can be pulled as if on a leash. Items that respond to a child’s movement will be engaging and will form part of your toddler’s first physical play.

Push bikes Toys with wheels are always a great source of enjoyment and will give your growing child some mobility and independence.

Remote-controlled cars or an electric racetrack These gifts will quickly take over your living area and probably have you wondering when they are going to be packed away, but they will provide hours of fun as the children get competitive and challenge each other to race.

Steering wheels Brightly-coloured steering wheels that imitate the sound of car horns, engines and car radios let your little one make believe they can drive a car, just like you.

Alphabet lettering with a twist Look for letters in different themes, from an African to a rock ’n roll theme, to make learning to read more stimulating. Younger children will enjoy playing with letters that can be stuck onto the wet bathroom wall.

Wooden alphabet blocks can also be used to make up words, as a décor item. magazine cape town

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Microphone If you’ve spotted a budding performer in your midst it wouldn’t hurt (too much) to get them a microphone to practise with.

Music player What preteen doesn’t want an MP3 player? This is great for long road trips.

Singing teddy Toddlers love stuffed toys because they’re soft and warm and are used to cuddle up to at bedtime. Those that are interactive and sing a lullaby as well will be a great comfort.

Toy phone Your children are probably fascinated with your cellphone, so they will enjoy making their own “calls” to imaginary friends on their own device. You can get big, colourful phones for younger children or play-play cellphones for the more discerning child.

Walkie-talkies These provide a nifty way for siblings to communicate, and are definitely a step up from the old tin can variety today’s parents used to make.

Waterproof toys Think toys that float and ones you can squeeze – ideal for the bath and swimming pool.

Wind chimes Your older child may like the ethereal sound of wind chimes and may even want to hang them by their bedroom window, to give their space more atmosphere.

Get musical There are various CDs you can get for children of all ages, from lullabies for babies to nursery rhymes and popular songs for older children. Look out for instrumental rock songs that have been turned into lullabies – it may make those long road trips when the CD is on repeat more enjoyable.

Baby toys that rattle, sing and chime These “musical” companions will have pride of place in the cot, car seat or the pram.

Work toys A pounding bench or noisy hammer set will keep young handymen, and women, occupied for hours.

Dinosaurs and action figures These can squeak when squeezed.

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Noisy books Some have their own sounds – just press and listen, or read with an accompanying CD or computer application.

Shoes that squeak while your child walks They will also help you keep track of your child in a busy public space.

Musical mobiles Hang these above your baby’s cot, or the changing mat, for soothing entertainment.

Clocks that chime Watches that beep make for a fun, useful gift.

Musical instruments for the bath tub The water is used to change the tone and pitch of the instrument. Each one comes with its own plastic-coated music sheets.

Music lessons Let your children develop their musical skills with a skilled teacher.

gifts that keep on giving Quality time Book some bonding time with your child. It could mean a mom-anddaughter pamper session or a dad-and-son trip away together or it could simply involve spending one-on-one time with your child, doing something that interests you both.

This is especially appreciated by children who are accustomed to having to share your attention with a brother or sister.

Start a savings account for your child It will teach them the value of money and how to manage their savings.

Rubik’s cube An old favourite from the eighties that will sharpen your child’s problem-solving skills.

Get your game on Older children will spend hours testing and improving their skills on a foosball or ping-pong table.

Leave a legacy Name a star or a rose after your child, or get them to think up a suitable name.

Monthly reads Take out a magazine subscription for a title that interests your child. You will be giving them a year’s worth of entertainment. Magazines about celebrities or pop culture will appeal to older children. For those who have access to a computer tablet or personal computer, you could organise a digital subscription.

Pets, fluffy or scaled A pet teaches your child responsibility and one of the four-legged variety can become a loyal companion. Just remember that this gift needs constant care and attention. magazine cape town

Start a time capsule Treasure your child’s achievements, art projects, school assignments and other creations.

Work on building a collection with your child It could be stamps, glass bottles, miniature cars, stickers or figurines of popular cartoon characters.

Get arty Visit an art gallery or outdoor exhibition with your child and discuss the paintings and sculptures. Make it an interactive experience by encouraging them to draw their favourite artwork. If you can, buy a piece of art the whole family loves, and that will eventually be passed onto your children.

Give back Get your child to help you collect items you can donate to a charity or an organisation, or spend time volunteering.

Go for gold As an investment gift, buy your child a Krugerrand.

Backyard items Many a summer day will be spent in your garden so equip yourself with pool noodles, bats and balls, swingball sets, tyre swings, blow-up pools (if not the real thing) and a slippery slide.

Camera, a few frames and a scrapbook For an older child it is all about their friends and chronicling the exciting experiences they share. Take it a step further and get them into the habit of developing their favourite photos and creating a keepsake, such as a scrapbook. The frames are for those precious photos that take pride of place on their bedside table or wall.

Children’s gazebo Invest in a shady place in the backyard where your child can have fun with their friends. They’ll love it in the same way they like the forts they build in the lounge, as it provides them with their own hideaway.

Hobby presents We’re thinking a fishing rod and hat; a knit pack of cashmere wool and thick wooden knitting needles; a green finger set – a pretty pot, potting soil, seeds, watering can or an art set comprising a canvas, easel, paints, jars and an apron.

Library card In a time where you can’t get anything for nothing, it is truly a wonder that there is still one place where you can explore new worlds free of charge. Take your child to get a library card and spend some time in the children’s section with them poring over different books, choosing the ones you’re going to take home.

Model aeroplane As you have to get away from the maddening crowds to enjoy

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this gift, a model aeroplane will encourage quality time with your child. The activity could evolve into a serious hobby, and one that may even see you attending model aeroplane flying shows together.

Rag or porcelain doll For many, a doll will be a lifetime companion. Your child will probably give her doll a name and she may talk to, sleep with and even pretend-feed her “friend”.

Wendy house This gift will be great for an older child, as they can enjoy some privacy in their own space, but still be within the safety of home. Let them decorate their house and help you make curtains or furniture.

Tickets Theatre and concert tickets to your child’s favourite band or show will leave a lasting impression.

Things to do Older children will enjoy fun courses, such as cooking, surfing or sushi-making.

Special family holiday You can’t wrap or hide this gift under the tree, but a fun getaway will strengthen family ties and create enduring memories.

All access A membership card or access card to a theme park or activity centre will keep your child entertained all year.

Open doors A solid education will put your children in good stead to pursue their career goals, but it doesn’t come cheaply.

Invest in your child’s future by opening an educational policy or fund.

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In a galaxy far, far away A telescope will open your child’s mind to the possibility of worlds beyond ours and allow them to track shooting stars and planets.

Feel it Older children may enjoy an introduction to a new experience, such as zipline adventure, caving or a ride on a steam train.

Young entrepreneur If your child has an idea for a small business, encourage them to make it happen by offering some startup capital. Also help them to set it up and get them literature on the subject.

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gifts that inspire creativity Dress-up dolls, including a few outfits Girls will love dressing and accessorising their willing “models”.

Costume treasure chest This is another of those gifts that is likely to change hands for a few generations. Fill the chest with a few basic items, so that when they lift the lid they are able to don wings, princess dresses, superhero costumes, cowboy hats, masks and more. Over time, add props such as face paints, wands and crowns, costume jewellery and feather boas.

Finger puppets These can be bought ready-to-use from a toy shop, but it’s more fun to make your own. Gather a few items and make a finger-puppet craft pack. There are various craft websites that can help you with what you need, but the basics are buttons, beads, sequins, different coloured felt, glue and perhaps one or two downloaded patterns for when it’s time to create the puppet.

Inflatable globe You and your child can spend hours discussing countries, continents and oceans. Use stickers to identify places, or use the map to find out more about a place’s culture, traditional dress, food, and climate.

Kits Sets or kits for making cupcakes, sushi, magic or mosaics may spark a new hobby, or a possible career path.

Puzzles From five-piece wooden sets to intricate designs of thousands of pieces, puzzles are a wonderful way of keeping your child busy. It also teaches important skills that will help with reading, maths and problem-solving.

Room refurbishment pack This is a creative way of allowing your older child to redecorate. Wrap a tin of paint in their favourite colour, with a new duvet set, a lamp and perhaps a wall decal. Wall murals are also a fun way to brighten up a room. Get one that charts their growth, or has the alphabet or numbers to add an educational twist.

Make it Let them get creative with modelling clay or playdough. They can also make their own stationery with stamps, different coloured ink pads and stencils. An art table or easel will be popular with children who enjoy crafts and messy play.

Green fingers Children love getting their hands dirty, so show them how to weed and plant seed that will eventually grow into beautiful flowers and plants. A garden set, packets of seeds and a few hours a week will instil a lifelong love of nature.

Let’s pretend Younger children love playing at being grown-up. A play-play vacuum cleaner or ironing board may be the perfect gift. You can get toy ovens and microwaves, cash registers, a doctordoctor set or even a miniature workbench and tool kit.

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stories in stereo The Jungle Book

By Rudyard Kipling (Published by AudioGo, R212,95) Kipling’s tale tells the story of Mowgli, the “man-cub” rescued from the tiger, Shere Khan, and adopted by a wolf pack. As he grows up, Mowgli learns the ways of the jungle from Baloo the Bear, Bagheera the Black Panther and Kaa the Rock Python.

His life is full of adventure, but soon it’s time for him to live with his own people.

The Secret Garden

By Frances Hodgson Burnett (Published by AudioGo, R212,95) When spoilt orphan Mary Lennox is brought back from India to live in her uncle’s house in England, she finds the blunt ways of the staff at Misselthwaite Manor an unpleasant shock. Bored and miserable, it seems as though life will be awful. But Misselthwaite has hidden delights and, when Mary discovers them, nothing is the same again.

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audio books

Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star Narrated by Deryn Edwards (Published by AudioGo, R114,95) A collection of much loved songs and lullabies, including: “All Through the Night”, “Brahms’s Lullaby”, “Frère Jacques”, “Hush Little Baby”, “Incy Wincy Spider”, “Sleep Baby Sleep”, “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot”, “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star” , “Baa Baa Black Sheep”, “Row, Row, Row Your Boat”, “Little Bo Peep”, “Scarborough Fair”, “Lulla Lulla Lullaby” and “Now the Day is Over”.

The Owl and the Pussy-Cat and other nonsense rhymes

By Edward Lear (Published by AudioGo, R114,95) The poems and limericks are: “The Daddy Long-Legs”, “The Fly, The Owl and the Pussy-Cat”, “The Duck and the Kangaroo”, “The Table and the Chair”, “The Broom, the Shovel, the Poker and the Tongs”, “Mr and Mrs Discobbolos”, “The Nutcrackers and the Sugar Tongs”, “The Two Old Bachelors”, “The Pobble Who Has No Toes”, “The Jumblies” and many more.

The Railway Children

By E. Nesbit (Published by AudioGo, R212,95) Roberta, Peter and Phyllis lead an ordinary life with their parents. But, when their father is mysteriously taken away one night, everything changes. The children must move to the country, to a little white cottage near the railway line, where they find that there are plenty of adventures to be had. One mystery remains: what has happened to Father, and will he come back? (The AudioGo titles are available from all good bookshops and The Listeners’ Library: visit the listenerslibrary.co.za.)

Storytime Africa Volume 1, 2 and 3 (Published by Storytime Africa, R75 each) These audio books comprise three separate CD volumes of original, funny animal stories. There are five different African animal stories per volume; stories that will whisk you away into a world of fun and imagination, where anything is possible, and will probably get you thinking differently. Each story is introduced by a short song and read by the author, John Bush, with a delightful backdrop of music and sound effects. Volume 1 brings you “The Warthog’s Tail”, “The Giraffe who got in a knot” and Hello Tortoise”. On Volume 2 are the ever popular “Hello Hippo” and “The Baboon who went to the Moon”. Volume 3 will entertain with “Hoppy Christmas”, “The Fish who could Wish” and “King Baboon’s New Year Party”. To order, email funtasee@ cybersmart.co.za

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a good read for toddlers Christopher’s Caterpillars

By Charlotte Middleton

(Published by Oxford University Press, R57) Christopher Nibble and his friend Posie catch six caterpillars eating all their prizewinning dandelions. Not wanting to hurt them, they decide to keep the six hairy creatures as pets.

They carefully look after them but, one day, the caterpillars disappear. Our gardening guinea pigs become the detectives of Dandeville and with the help of Mr Rosetti, they solve their minibeast mystery in this bright and beautiful tale. This book about caterpillars turning into butterflies is a fun way to explain metamorphosis to young children. The mixed media illustrations will inspire further exploration and creative experimentation after reading the story.

My Grandpa

By Marta Altés

ial a spec nship relatio

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R170) This is a stunning picture book debut by exciting new writing and illustrating talent, Marta Altés, for children from the age of two. It deals with the very special relationship between an elderly grandfather and his adoring grandson, offering a unique look at old age through the poignant and beautifully observed experiences of a young bear. “My grandpa is getting old… sometimes he feels alone. But then I come along! When he is with me he smiles. When I am with him, I can fly!” As the pair goes on adventures together, their love for each other grows. This is an excellent gift for a granddad to give to a beloved grandchild.

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The Scariest Thing of All

By Debi Gliori

First Fairy Tales – Snow White, Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears (Published by Tucker Slingsby Ltd, R45 each) These are the perfect books for little hands to hold, “read” and love. The padded covers and hardboard pages make it easy for small fingers to navigate and the classic stories are told in simple, rhyming text, which is the perfect way to introduce very young children to fairy tales. Big, bright and bold illustrations accompany the stories and there are characters – a butterfly, a little black bird and two little mice – in each book to encourage your toddler to count how often they appear in the story. Why not get the whole series as a gift for aspiring small readers?

(Published by Bloomsbury Publishing, R103) Everything about Pip is small, except the list of things he is scared of, which is enormous. Even his family is not sure how to help him overcome his anxieties. One day, Pip finds himself alone in the dark woods and everything gets just about as bad as it can. This little rabbit finally has to face his fears. In so doing, of course, he realises that nothing is as big, bad or terrifying as it first appears, and he soon discovers that the “scariest thing of all” isn’t quite as scary as he had imagined. The Independent on Sunday has described this stunningly illustrated book as “an instant childhood classic” and the Guardian called it “a brilliant gem of a book”.

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for toddlers

for preschoolers Nursery Rhymes & Verse from Africa Reworked and illustrated

by Liz Mills

Babies Don’t Bite

By David Bedford and Tor Freeman (Published by Hodder Children’s Books, R151) Count from one to 10 with Hegley as he discovers adorable farmyard babies just waiting for fun. Hegley is excited to hear that his mom is expecting a baby, until his farmyard friends tell him that babies pull tails and bite. But Hegley soon realises that the best thing about babies is they love big brothers and sisters to bits. Bestselling author David Bedford perfectly captures the anticipation and worries of a new baby with his warm style, making this the perfect book to give to a very young child in preparation for a new baby brother or sister.

Tor Freeman’s illustrations are absolutely adorable, creating a cosy atmosphere for a story about families and love.

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(Published by Struik Lifestyle, R90) This delightful book follows on the continuing popularity of African Nursery Rhymes, which has been reprinted almost every year since it appeared in 2006. Nursery rhymes form an essential part of children’s development, teaching them rhythm and rhyme, and word skills, while improving their memory. Liz’s colourful and often humorous illustrations and word imagery will capture the imagination and make reading an activity that children, and their parents or carers, look forward to at bedtime or any other time of the day.

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Peppa Pig – The Official Annual 2013 and The Official Lego Annual 2013 Peppa Pig Annual: based on the TV series created by Neville Astley and Mark Baker (Published by Ladybird Books Ltd, R123 and R108) The Peppa Pig Annual is based on the number one award-winning preschool children’s TV show and is full of piggy tales, puzzles, games and activities, and lots of stickers. With so much piggy fun to keep Peppa Pig and George fans happy for hours, it’s a preschooler’s favourite Christmas present, stocking filler and birthday present for the year. The Official Lego Annual is bursting with brilliant games and activities about the popular Lego ranges. With Lego bricks and minifigures to build and play with, this is the perfect Christmas gift.

The Peppa Pig annual is recommended for children from the age of two and the Lego annual should suit children from the age of five.

Creativity Fun – Kitchen

By Emmanuelle Teyras (Published by Silver Dolphin, R134) This book for children from the age of six has 72 pages of activities for hours of colourful and creative fun. Children can colour in, do collage, draw, doodle, decorate and write.

There are also more than 200 stickers and 16 pages of paper cut-outs. The pages are sturdy enough to use crayons, paint, markers, white correction pens, glue, pencils, pens and felt-tip pens. The theme of the book is “the kitchen” and children get the opportunity to play fashion designer with stickers of food – they can dress the cut-out dolls in a banana skirt, decorate an entire kitchen in their own colour scheme, brand and colour their own packaging, create fruit pies, finish drawings of all kinds of food stuff and decorate a birthday cake.

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for preschoolers Yes Kids Bible Stories about Prayer, The Yes Kids Bible Activity & Prayer Book and The Yes Kids Bible Colouring Book

By Ewald van Rensburg and Lilani Brits (Published by Christian Media Publishing Kids, R15, R12,50 and R12,50) This colourful, illustrated Bible story series has been created especially for children between the ages of three and seven. A prayer and a lesson with a Christian value accompany each story. It has also been compiled with your child’s developmental phases in mind, so it helps with faith building, vocabulary, as well as reading skills and emotional development. Get all the books in the series, Jesus, Greatness, Obedience and Love, and build an entire illustrated Bible for your child. The two craft books are full of creative fun with Bible-related themes and stories. Children can have hours of fun finding differences, connecting dots and numbers and finishing picture stories.

for early graders Pippi Longstocking, Pippi Goes Aboard and Pippi in the South Seas

By Astrid Lindgren and Tony Ross (Published by Oxford University Press, R57 each) A new generation of readers can get to know this eccentric character within these books, with their funky new covers. In the first book, children are introduced to Pippi who lives in a house with a horse, a monkey, a suitcase full of gold and no grown-ups to tell her what to do. She’s wild and funny and her crazy ideas are always getting her into trouble. In Pippi Goes Abroad, our heroine and her friends, Tommy and Annika, go to the circus where they buy nice things and later get shipwrecked. Pippi’s long-lost father is also coming to visit, but will she abandon her friends and set sail with him?

In the third book the trio are off on a great adventure to the Canny Canny Islands, where Pippi’s father is king. They explore secret caves, play marbles with pearls and luckily the pirates and sharks they meet are no match for Pippi.

making a comeb ack

Gobbolino the Witch’s Cat

By Ursula Moray Williams and Catherine Rayner (Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R154) Reissued for its 70 th anniversary, this classic tale has been loved by generations of children and is perfect for reading aloud. No one could mistake Gobbolino, with his sparky whiskers and magic tricks, for a simple kitchen cat, but that’s just what this witch’s kitten wants to be. Instead of learning how to turn mice into toads for the witch’s brew, Gobbolino sets out on an adventure to find a family and a home of his own. This classic tale is the perfect gift for a young book lover, and one that can be passed on from generation to generation.

Adventure Trails in Kirstenbosch

By Daphne Mackie (Published by Random House Struik, R95) These five imaginative trails capture the magic of nature within Kirstenbosch, South Africa’s best-known and muchloved botanical garden. Eager young adventurers will have hours of fun discovering prehistoric gems, enchanted forests, secret gardens, mysterious mirror pools and much more. Each beautifully illustrated route is packed with information. There are striking and majestic trees, abundant flowers, birds, insects, animals and snippets from history, as well as descriptions of the best places to play and relax. Follow the nifty companion’s maps and directions, and slip off on the garden’s secret pathways.

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for early graders The Big Fat South African Kiddies’ Joke Book (Published by Zebra Press, R120) This is a truly home-grown book for children of all ages, with jokes they can relate to. There are knock-knock jokes, one-liners and oldtime classics, short jokes, longer jokes, stupid questions and silly answers. There are animals that can talk, children who outfox grown-ups, jokes about teachers and pupils, sport and computers, the precious (and hilarious) things children say, and much more that will make you laugh out loud, whether you are seven or 70. Some examples of one-line jokes: “How do you greet a frog? Wart’s up.” “What does an elephant do when he stubs his toes? He calls the toe truck.” Popular knock-knock jokes include: “Knock, knock!

Who’s there? Figs. Figs, who? Figs the doorbell, it’s broken.” Or, “knock, knock! Who’s there? Boo. Boo who? Well, you don’t have to cry about it.” With fun riddles, and quirky illustrations, this 214-page book will supply hours of laughter and fun.

for preteens and teens Star Wars – The Complete Visual Dictionary

By David West Reynolds, James Luceno and Ryder Windham

Dodger

By Terry Pratchett (Published by Random House Struik, R295) This is a terrifically funny tale of dark deeds in Dickensian London, from master storyteller Terry Pratchett. Dodger is a 17-year-old tosher – a sewer scavenger living in the squalor of the city. He is a cheeky but good-hearted orphan who knows how to survive on the streets of London. Everyone who is nobody knows Dodger. Anyone who is anybody doesn’t.

But when he rescues a young girl from a beating, suddenly everybody wants to know him. So Dodger’s tale of skulduggery, dark plans and even darker deeds begins.

Dodger is recommended for children from the age of 12.

(Published by Dorling Kindersley Publishers, R358) This invaluable volume brings all four Star Wars Visual Dictionaries together, with a tantalising selection of unique material.

Revenge of the Sith is now explored in even greater detail, with additional pages on Utapau, Mustafar, Order 66 and clone battle tanks. Coverage of the original trilogy is also expanded with overviews of the Rebel Alliance, Imperial personnel, the Sarlacc, R2-D2 and the Cantina crowd.

The authors worked closely with Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Music to research this unique reference book. The result is a fascinating visual gallery of the characters and creatures of the entire Star Wars saga.

Top 10 of Everything 2013

By Caroline Ash

boost your general knowledge

(Published by Hamlyn, R230) There are a lot of books on the market that can tell you who is number one, but what about how big the margin is between first and second place or where does fifth come in? Was number 10 really that far off the mark? Top 10 of Everything 2013 answers these questions and many, many more, with brand-new and updated lists and over 7 000 of the most intriguing facts about history, science, sports, music, movies, nature, people and places. And as if that wasn’t enough to quench your thirst for knowledge, this fascinating full-colour book also includes feature spreads that are packed with insightful information and additional lists that really give you the low-down on your favourite records.

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for preteens and teens I Capture the Castle and The Wind in the Willows

By Dodie Smith and Kenneth Grahame

Artemis Fowl and the Last Guardian

By Eoin Colfer (Published by Puffin Books, R140) Is this Armageddon for Artemis Fowl? In The Last Guardian, Opal Koboi, a powercrazed pixie, is plotting to exterminate mankind and become fairy queen. If she succeeds, the spirits of long-dead fairy warriors will rise from the earth, inhabit the nearest available bodies and wreak mass destruction. But what happens if those nearest bodies include crows, or deer, or badgers – or two curious little boys by the names of Myles and Beckett Fowl? Yes, it’s true. Criminal mastermind Artemis Fowl’s four-year-old brothers could be involved in destroying the human race. Can Artemis and Captain Holly Short stop Opal and prevent the end of the world? This is the eighth and final book in this very popular series for children from the age of 10.

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(Published by Random House Struik, R125 and R90) Random House Struik has released a series of vintage classics, with new covers for the next generation. Included are these two well-known titles. I Capture the Castle is a must-read for children from the age of 12. It’s the diary of Cassandra Mortmain, which tells of her extraordinary family and their crumbling castle home. The Wind in the Willows is recommended for children from the age of eight and they can follow Mole, Badger and Rat on their adventures in the Wild Wood and on the road. Other books in the series include The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Secret Garden and Treasure Island.

for us Us and Them

By Rosemund J Handler (Published by Penguin Books, R170) Starting out in a Lithuanian shtetl, but set thereafter in Cape Town, Rosemund Haden’s Us and Them encompasses three generations in the life of a Jewish family. It’s a compelling story of family conflict that explores the effect of religious superstition passed on to successive generations and it reveals how, even if consciously rejected, it is nearly impossible to escape the consequences of life’s early influences. The third generation twin daughters are undeniably damaged. Although each reacts in her own way, their closeness as twins means that what is imposed on them by their mother during their childhood and adolescence, will be a shared experience in a way no-one could have foretold.

Scrumptious – Food for Family and Friends

By Jane-Anne Hobbs (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R260) Creating memorable dishes for family and friends is one of life’s great pleasures: how better to celebrate life and love than to gather at a happy table laden with scrumptious home-cooked food? You don’t need to inspiration be an expert cook to produce heart-warming dishes in the full of flavour. All that’s required is passion, patience kitchen and smart preparation well in advance. Jane-Anne Hobbs has created over 90 original, triple-tested recipes designed to take the fuss out of home entertaining and bring smiles to the faces of the people you love. Whether you’re planning a relaxed get-together over a homely dish of soup, stew or salad, or a lavish spread with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find plenty of inspiring new ideas here, plus top tips for planning and preparing a meal to remember.

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parenting book Free Wheeling – Southern Africa’s best multi-day MTB trails

By Fiona McIntosh

My Life with Leopards – Graham Cooke’s Story

By Fransje van Riel

(Published by Sunbird Publishing, R166) From short, easy, one-night escapes suitable for the whole family, to hard-core mountain adventures that will test even the most experienced, competitive racers, the 34 trails of southern Africa’s best multiday trails and wilderness journeys featured in this book cover the full spectrum of mountain bike tours on offer locally and in neighbouring countries. A guide and support vehicle accompanies most of the tours, meaning that someone else takes care of the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the best that mountain biking offers. Whether you want to ride with big game, along empty beaches, through verdant forest or across barren deserts, you’ll find a trail that suits you, and there are also some specialist trails aimed at birders, gourmands and culture vultures.

(Published by Penguin Books, R220) When two six-week-old leopard cubs born in captivity in Zimbabwe arrive at the Londolozi private game reserve in South Africa, 22-year-old game ranger Graham Cooke is assigned to take care of them. His first task is to gain the cubs’ trust before he begins to guide them towards their release into the wild where they can assume their role as Africa’s most efficient predators. But, over time, both cubs come to recognise him as their protector and friend, and he forms a unique bond with the young leopards.

When the cubs are relocated to the Zambian wilderness, Graham has to face the hardest task of all: to let go of the young charges he has become devoted to so that they can return to an existence where he will be unable to control their fate.

Held Up

By Christopher Radmann (Published by Headline Review, R175) Paul is a contented man; his life is cruising along just fine and his family means everything to him. But then he picks up his new BMW and, while waiting at a traffic light, someone taps on his window with the barrel of a handgun. He’s dragged out and his abductor drives off in his car. It’s an everyday carjacking; except that his nine-month-old daughter is in the back seat.

As a pacifist, Paul is reluctant to carry a gun, but as he begins the search for his child he uncovers a criminal gang involved in people trafficking and discovers in himself a capacity for violence. Moving from the enclaves of Joburg’s northern suburbs to the throbbing heart of Soweto’s informal settlements, Paul is forced to confront the changing political and social landscape of the new South Africa, questioning his own values as his perfect life crumbles around him.

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Recognising Postnatal Depression – A Handbook for Mothers

By Paula Levin, Zahava Aarons and Andy Taub-Da Costa (Published by Penguin Books, R190) Having a baby is hard for everyone, and for some women it’s a hellish experience.

The journey to motherhood is sometimes clouded with unrealistic expectations and society’s unfair judgement of any woman who isn’t immediately blissfully happy with her new baby. This title is for anyone who is struggling or has struggled on that journey. It offers hope, support and comfort and a clear path out of what may feel like a bewildering or overwhelming situation. Cowritten by a medical doctor, a clinical psychologist and their patient, who is a writer, each author contributes her own personal experience and expertise.

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calendar

what’s on in december and january

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

4

FUN FOR CHILDREN – p57

ONLY FOR PARENTS – p64

Artjamming 17-day paint-a-thon Children can help a celebrity paint a surfboard for a good cause.

Cake decorating classes with Grace Stevens Learn how to work with fondant.

bump, baby & tot in tow – p65

how to help – p66

Drama Tots open day A drama class for moms or carers while tots learn and have fun together.

Merriman Lions Reading Action Plan Contribute quality used or new books to schools without libraries.

SPECIAL EVENTS – p54 The Little Mermaid at The Baxter Based on the classic tale by Hans Christian Andersen, the musical is brought to life on stage with spectacular costumes, inventive sets, gorgeous puppets and a collection of catchy original songs.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

tue

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calendar adults R70, children R60. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za

5 wednesday The Amazing World of Gumball Cartoon Network’s multi-award-winning comedy series returns this December for a brand new second series – and this time the adventures of the energetic and fearless blue cat and his idiosyncratic family are more epic than ever. Starts 5 December at 5:25pm, and thereafter every Wednesday at 5:25pm with repeats on Saturday at 11:40am and 6:45pm and the following Tuesday at 5:25pm on DStv Channel 301.

Cost: R40 per ticket. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or for more info: 021 657 5600, 083 364 8284 or elton@lilliputplayers.co.za Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Artscape This children’s fable is about a baby girl named Snow White, growing up with a cruel, wicked stepmom, the queen.

Ends 22 December. Time: 10:30am (except Sunday and 17 December). There is an extra show on 15 December at 12:30pm.

Venue: Artscape Theatre Foyer. Cost: R50.

Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695

7 friday 2 December – SPCA Pick n Pay Wiggle Waggle Walkathon

SPECIAL EVENTS

december 2012 1 saturday Elegantly Elgin Open Wine Weekend 1 and 2 December is Chardonnay Celebration; 5 and 6 January white aromatic blends.

Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: 16 participating wine estates located on the Elegantly Elgin Map, visit the website for details. For more info: visit elginwine.co.za St Martini Christmas bazaar There are games and a puppet show for the children, crafts and cake, bratwurst and beer on tap. There are many German specialties on offer. Time: 10am. Venue: 240 Long St. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 423 5947

2 sunday Old Mutual Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Today: Mango Groove, 9 December: Zebra & Giraffe,

23 December: Prime Circle, 30 December: Yoav & Tailor. Time: 5:30pm–7pm, every Sunday; gates open 4pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Cost: varies per show. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za SPCA Pick n Pay Wiggle Waggle Walkathon The walkathon is all about the dogs and is an opportunity for you to have a fun day out with your canine friends while helping to raise funds for the CoGH SPCA. All participants must register to take part. Time: 9am. Venue: School for Maths, Science and Technology, Firgrove Way, Tokai. Cost: R35 or R40 per person and R25 or R30 per dog. Contact: 021 700 4141/80 or for more info, visit spca-ct.co.za

4 tuesday The Little Mermaid at The Baxter The musical features singing clams and biglipped jellyfish, witty dialogue and foottapping tunes. Ends 5 January. Time: 10am and 12pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: Flipside Stage, Baxter Theatre Centre. Cost:

Vital Run Vital Health Foods, in association with Run/Walk for Life and Western Province Athletics Club, hosts the third annual run in aid of the PATCH Helderberg Centre for Abused Children. Enter the 21km run, the 10km run and 10km walk or the 4km fun run/walk. The course follows a relatively flat and easy route and is suitable for all ages. There is a Cool-Down Zone offering massages to athletes. After the race there is a festive family market, with breakfast delicacies and tasters. 1 December.

Time: first race starts at 6:30am. Venue: Lourensford Wine Estate. Cost: R55 or R90 (21,1km); R35 or R55 (10km); R20 or R30 junior (10km). Contact Marie: 021 852 8473, 083 713 2858, 083 448 3090 or visit vitalrun.co.za

1 sat

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Carols by Candlelight Father Christmas is on hand to entertain the little ones and spoil them with sweets. CrissCross delights with traditional Christmas carols. Take a picnic basket and blanket. Time: gates open 5pm, carols 6:30pm. Venue: Laborie Wine Farm, Taillefer St, Main Rd, Paarl. Cost: adults R50 and children over 12 years R20; picnics R250 for two adults sharing and R75 for children.

Contact: 021 807 3390, info@laboriewines. co.za or visit laboriewines.co.za

8 saturday Slanghoek Summer Splash Join the resort for a day of wine tasting, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment. The children are kept busy on the 18-hole putt-putt course situated on a fynbos hill with horse rides, a jumping castle and a jungle gym. Time: 11am–6pm. Venue: Slanghoek Mountain Resort, Slanghoek Valley. Cost: adults R100, which includes a tasting glass, tasting vouchers and goodie bag; children under 18 R40, which includes a goodie bag. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za and for more info, visit slanghoekvalley.co.za Summer in Stellenbosch Valley This year, participating wineries in the Stellenbosch Valley promise a “bucket list” of attractions, including authentic pairings, markets, braais and entertainment. The programme is available on their website or on the Summer in Stellenbosch Valley Facebook page. Ends 17 December. Time: varies per wine farm.

Venue: 16 participating wine estates. Cost: varies. Contact: 021 886 8275, events@ wineroute.co.za or visit wineroute.co.za

10 monday Pinelands Craft & Gift Fair There is a selection of gifts exhibited by 125 crafters, including handcrafted cards and Christmas decorations, tasty treats, basket-, wire- and leatherwork, glassware and needlework.

Enjoy tea and cake on the front lawn or a light meal in their cafeteria. Ends 22 December. Time: 10am–8pm, Monday– Friday; 10am–5pm, Saturday and Sunday.

Venue: Kent Hall, Pinelands High School.

Contact Jenni: 082 661 6080 Pinocchio at Cavendish Pinocchio, Gepetto, Jiminy Cricket and the Blue Fairy are on a magical adventure with lots of fun, laughter and loads of audience participation. Ends 22 December. Time: 11:30am, Monday–Saturday. Venue: Cavendish Square, next to Stuttafords.

10–22 December – Pinocchio at Cavendish

14 friday Fab Ideas Christmas Gift Fair Shoppers can buy gifts such as décor, jewellery, clothing and crafts and raid the deli for tasty treats and goodies. There is also children’s entertainment, cheese and wine and live music. Christmas carols are on Sunday and cost R40 per child, which includes a Christmas lucky packet (for 10 year olds and younger). Booking is essential. Ends 17 December. Time: 9am–6pm, Friday and Saturday; 9am–8pm, Sunday; 9am–5pm, Monday. Venue: Kommetjie Primary School.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 392 6390, 082 879 5571 or visit fabideas.co.za

15 saturday Christmas Book and Gift Fair Along with gift stalls and books, there is good food, live music and a children’s corner. Proceeds are in aid of The Sozo Foundation Youth Development Project and the Muizenberg Beach Club. Time: 11am–4pm. Venue: Bluebird Garage Market, 39 Albertyn Rd, Muizenberg. Cost: free. Contact: 082 536 9433, info@audienceof1events.co.za or visit audienceof1events.co.za

14–17 December – Fab Ideas Christmas Gift Fair

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calendar Fynbos and Food Fair In the Cape Floral Kingdom’s peninsula heartland, you’ll find a jumping castle, face painting, pony rides and playground, fynbos walks, fynbos products, lots of delicious food stalls, an intriguing succulent footpath and discounted plants from one of the finest fynbos collections to be found anywhere.

Green your Christmas this year by buying a discounted indigenous tree to decorate.

Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Good Hope Gardens Nursery, Plateau Rd (M65) en route to Cape Point. Contact: 021 780 9299, fynbosplants@xsinet.co.za or visit capepoint.com or goodhopegardens. wordpress.com

18 tuesday De Waal Park Carols by Candlelight Performed by the Salvation Army. Time: 7:30pm–9pm. Venue: De Waal Park, Upper Orange St, Oranjezicht. Cost: free. Contact Jennifer: 082 260 0185, dewaalpark@ mweb.co.za or visit dewaalpark.co.za

january 2013 1 tuesday Body Worlds and the Cycle of Life Exhibition The internationally-renowned anatomical exhibition makes its African premiere in Cape Town for a three-month showing. Developed by acclaimed, albeit controversial, anatomist Dr Gunther von Hagens, the ground-breaking showcase displays real human bodies, individual organs, organ configurations and transparent body slices flawlessly preserved thanks to a revolutionary method known as plastination. 31 October–31 January.

Time: 9am–7:30pm. Venue: Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront. Cost: adults R140, 6–17 year olds R90, under 5 year olds free, family ticket R400. For more info: visit bodyworlds.co.za

6 sunday

31 October–31 January – Body Worlds and the Cycle of Life Exhibition

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Old Mutual Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Today: Arno Carstens, 13 January: The Parlotones, 20 January: Jimmy Dludlu, 27 January: Toya Delazy

15, 22 and 29 December and 5 January – Crafts Club beading bracelet activity

& Lindiwe Suttle. Pack a picnic basket.

Time: 5:30pm–7pm, every Sunday; gates open at 4pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cost: varies per show. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za

7 monday The Ugly Duckling and Other Stories Enjoy Hans Christian Andersen stories: The King’s New Clothes, The Princess and the Swineherd and The Ugly Duckling. Ends 15 January. Time: 11:30am, Monday– Saturday. Venue: Cavendish Square. Cost: R40. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or for more info: 021 657 5600, Elton: 083 364 8284 or elton@ lilliputplayers.co.za

25 friday The Stellenbosch Wine Festival The new-look Stellenbosch Wine Festival delivers wine experiences with award-winning restaurants, special cultivar evenings and wine farm tours. There are sporting events, art exhibitions and musical concerts throughout the town with a highlight being the Blessing of the Harvest and a Harvest Parade on 26 January. The festival culminates in a three-day Wine Expo on 1–3 February in the heart of the vibrant town, featuring interactive stands and tasting programmes from over 130 wine and gourmet food producers as well as a central stage hosting sundowner concerts.

Ends 3 February. Contact: 021 886 4310 or visit stellenboschwinefestival.co.za

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Family yoga camp This weekend focuses on making yoga a part of family life. A minimum of four families is needed for the camp to take place. Ends 27 January. Time: call to enquire. Venue: The Grail Centre, Kleinmond. Cost: R650 per family member, including accommodation and meals.

Donations for tuition are appreciated.

Contact Vani: 021 696 1821 or vani@ anandakutir.org.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Artjamming 17-day paint-a-thon Children, age five and up, help a celebrity paint a surfboard for a good cause. The indoor beach area provides a safe and interactive space for children to socialise and have fun. 7 December. Time: 9am–6pm.

Venue: Stuttafords Court, Cavendish Square Shopping Centre. Cost: R50 per painting session, some of which is donated to the Reach for a Dream Foundation. Contact: 021 683 5050 or leora@artjamming.co.za CapeGators Kids Club magic workshop Today is the magic workshop, but every month there is a different activity – from face painting, colouring-in competitions and themed art and crafts. For 3–13 year olds.

8 December. Time: 11am–12pm. Venue: CapeGate Shopping Precinct, cnr Okavango Rd and De Bron Rd, Brackenfell. Cost: free.

For more info: visit capegatecentre.co.za

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Children’s art exhibition Entitled Save our Karoo. Multi-medium art done by preteens, nurturing a love for art among the younger children. For 6–12 year olds.

4 December. Time: 5pm–7pm. Venue: The Drive, Camps Bay. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 083 654 2494 Crafts Club beading bracelet activity Children make a coil spring bracelet by using colourful, bright beads and charms.

15, 22 and 29 December and 5 January.

Time: 12:30pm–2:30pm. Venue: The Paddocks Shopping Centre, Milnerton.

Cost: R25 per bracelet. Contact Dahlia: 076 548 5717 or craftsclub@isoft.co.za Free two-hour introductory fabric painting workshop For adults and children. 26 January. Time: 8:45am–10:45am.

Venue: Pinelands. Cost: R30 per kit.

Enquire about adult and children’s holiday classes 1–15 December. Contact: 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954 or wendyadriaan@ telkomsa.net Sue Nepgen’s children’s art classes First term’s programme includes clay sculptures and etching in oils, as well as drawing and painting techniques. For ages 4–13 years old. Starts 21 January. Time: held weekday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Venue: Michael Oak Waldorf School, Kenilworth or 28 Klaasenbosch Dr, Constantia. Cost: R590 a term, including materials and firing.

Pro-rata fees for late joiners. Contact Sue: 021 794 6609, 021 794 4723, 083 237 7242 or snepgen@xsinet.co.za

Xhosa Fundis language workshops Catch the last of these five educational workshops based on the CD, Xhosa Songs for Kids, with its flash cards and colouring books, all of which are available to buy. 8 December theme: Saying “Yes, No, Maybe!” and farewells. Time: 10am–11am. Venue: Scallywags Play Café, 44 Belvedere Rd, Caltex Garage, Claremont. Cost: R375 for a set of five workshops or R80 per workshop, R30 for coffee and cake for parents, R15 for the sibling to play for the duration of the workshop. Contact Kyle: molo@new.co.za

classes, talks and workshops Bugz cooking classes Children decorate cakes or make biscuits and eat their

creations afterwards. 16–21 December and 7–11 January. Time: 11am and 2pm.

Venue: Bugz Playpark, 56 Tarentaalweg, Joostenbergvlakte. Cost: cake decorating R50, biscuit making R30. Contact: 021 988 8836, party@bugz.co.za or visit bugzplaypark.co.za Junior cake decorating classes with Grace Stevens Learn how to make cake and cupcake toppers such as flowers, teddy bears and shoes and handbags out of fondant. For 9–14 year olds. 11–13 December. Time: 9:30am–1:30pm. Venue: 18 Abbotsford Ave, Constantia. Cost: R250 per class or R700 for all three classes.

Contact Bianca: classes@cupcakesbydesign. co.za or visit cupcakesbydesign.co.za

Sunshine Simon and the Dark Day Planetarium show

8 sat

Join Simon as he experiences life on the moon by buying a first-class ticket into space.

Purchase the ticket at the entrance of the Iziko South African Museum. For 5–12 year olds. 8 December.

Time: 12pm. Venue: Iziko Planetarium, 25 Queen Victoria St, Company Garden. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit iziko.org.za

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finding nature and outdoor play

9 December – Lighting of the Tree Ceremony

Lessons in effective study methods Learn about mnemonics, mind-mapping, keyword searching, colour illustrating and other techniques. Book a one-hour session. For 7–15 year olds. 3–13 December and 7–30 January. Time: 8:30am–5pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Kenilworth. Cost: R300 per session or R1 500 for six sessions.

Contact Terri: 083 325 6034 or terril@ mweb.co.za

family outings Century City Carols by Candlelight Take your picnic blankets and baskets.

There are jumping castles, an animal touch farm and Father Christmas who arrives on the Ratanga train to hand out small gifts. The last hour is dedicated to carol singing and a nativity play.

9 December. Time: 6:30pm–8:30pm.

Venue: Central Park, Century City. Cost: free entry, but donations of school materials are requested for Sinenjongo High School in Joe Slovo Park, which serves an extremely impoverished community. Contact Bianca: 021 550 7000, bianca@centurycity.co.za or visit centurycity.co.za Lighting of the Tree Ceremony Take a picnic, join in carol singing and watch the lighting of the magnificent, five-storey Norfolk Pine. It is lit up every night over the festive season, in celebration of life and in honour of those loved and lost.

Please support the St Luke’s Hospice Tree of Lights Campaign by sponsoring lights. 9 December. Time: 6pm. Venue: St Luke’s Hospice, Kenilworth. Cost: free entry to the ceremony. Refreshments on sale. Contact Colleen: 021 761 1700 or colleenz@stlukes.co.za The City Sightseeing Night Tour This three-hour tour is a sunset tour to Signal Hill. Take a picnic basket with snacks and sundowners and watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. The tour is three hours and is not a hop-on, hop-off tour. Take warm clothes just in case. 20 September– 6 May. Time: departs 6pm. Venue: starts and ends at Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront. Cost: adults R100, children R50. Contact: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za

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Cherry picking at Klondyke Time: 8:30am–4:30pm, daily. Venue: Klondyke Cherry Farm, Ceres. Cost: R20 per person, children under 6 free. Contact: 023 312 1521 or visit cherryfarm.co.za Meet a cheetah at Cheetah Outreach Learn about and even stroke these endangered animals. 15 December.

Time: 9:30am. Venue: Cheetah Outreach, Paardevlei, near Somerset West. Cost: R5 per person. For more info: visit cheetah.co.za Petting Zoo at V&A Waterfront Children can see rabbits, ducklings, lambs and piglets.

15 December–6 January. Time: 11am–5pm.

Venue: The Blue Shed, V&A Waterfront. Cost: R20 for 20 minutes. Contact: 021 408 7600 or info@waterfront.co.za Picnics at Hartenberg The lush lawns are ready for long, inviting alfresco lunches.

Imagine picnic baskets filled to the brim with local culinary delights. For the energetic, a round or two of boules is the order of the day. November–April. Venue: Hartenberg Estate, Bottelary Rd, Stellenbosch. Cost: R145 per person. Contact: 021 865 2541, info@hartenbergestate.com or visit hartenbergestate.com The Sidecar Adventure Tours Departs from Two Oceans Aquarium and does a 150km loop via Cape Point. Time: varies.

Venue: Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront. Cost: R1 900 per sidecar (R950 per person – minimum of two people per booking). If you book at the office, or book and buy online you pay R1 700 per sidecar (R850 per person, minimum two people booking. Contact: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za Waterworld Strand open for summer They have new solar heating, new rides, undercover shaded areas, a children’s swimming pool, junior double slide and play area and an adventure park. Time: 9am–6pm, daily during the holidays. Venue: Beach Rd, Strand. Cost: varies. Contact: 021 854 4702 or visit waterslides.co.za Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition The exhibition shows nature from a variety of breathtaking angles, highlighting the incredible beauty and immediate need for conservation of the natural world. 4 December–4 March. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Iziko South African Museum, 25 Queen Victoria St. Cost: adults R30, students and pensioners R20 and free for under 18s. Contact: 021 481 3800 or visit nhuafrica.com

15 December – Meet a cheetah at Cheetah Outreach

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Club-V holiday camp Activities include art and crafts, colouring-in competitions, games and obstacle courses, and group exercise classes. For 3–13 year olds. 10–14 December. Time: morning and afternoon slots available, Monday–Friday; enquire with your club. Venue: Virgin Active Club V and Club V Max, check the website for a club near you. Cost: free for Virgin Active Club V members. For more info: visit virginactive.co.za

Worcester Yacht Club Situated right on the dam, you are allowed to canoe, sail, powerboat and swim. There’s a rescue team on duty at all times. Time: varies. Venue: Brandvlei Dam, between Rawsonville and Worcester. Cost: R120 for day visitors.

Contact: 023 343 2877, 072 515 0955, wyc@telkomsa.net or visit wyc.co.za

holiday activities All Stars Gymnastics Club holiday clinic Young ones can look forward to using the trampoline, tumbling and rope skipping. There are waterslides on the last day. For 3–5 year olds, 6–8 year olds and 9–13 year olds. 10–13 December. Time: starts 9:30am. Venue: Boston Primary School, Bellville. Cost: email for details.

Contact: allstarsgym@mweb.co.za Artjamming holiday programme Daily art and crafts activities, such as cardmaking and sand art. Time: 9am–6pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Cavendish, Cape Quarter and Willowbridge Artjamming stores. Cost: R75 per person. Contact: 021 683 5050 (Cavendish), 021 421 6129 (Cape Quarter) or 021 914 9224 (Willowbridge) Bugz Christmas Carnival A festive day of stilt walkers, mime artists, acrobats and character walks and a Father Christmas appearance with small treats. 15 December.

Time: 1pm. Venue: Bugz Playpark, 56 Tarentaalweg, Joostenbergvlakte. Cost: adults R50, children R120, which includes

Waterworld Strand open for summer

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a small treat from Santa, all rides and entertainment (except quads and paintball). Contact: 021 988 8836, party@ bugz.co.za or visit bugzplaypark.co.za Camelot Riding School holiday camp Beginner and novice riders learn all aspects of caring for ponies, do flat work as well as have a jumping lesson according to their level. The advanced and competitive riders also learn how to prepare their pony for a show. For 6–18 year olds. 12–14 December.

Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Herta Erna Rd, Schoongezicht, Durbanville. Cost: R850 per three-day camp or R300 per day. Contact: 083 261 7656, info@camelotridingschool. co.za or visit camelotridingschool.co.za CapeGate school holiday programme There is a ball pond, miniature golf, art and crafts as well as a movie area. For 3–12 year olds. 14–24 December. Time: 10am–3pm.

Venue: in the Bridge Court. Cost: tbc.

Contact: 021 981 2288 Christmas party for children with disabilities Includes play and party pack with GFDF (gluten free; dairy free) snacks and toys. 2 December. Time: 2pm–4pm. Venue: Planet Kids, 3 Wherry Rd, Muizenberg.

Cost: R30. Contact: 021 788 3070 or info@ planetkids.co.za Elemental Kids holiday programme In small groups, children decide what they want to experience, learn and create together and what element they want to focus on. There are some guidelines to frame the group activity. 10–14 December.

Time: 9am–4pm, every day; Friday ends at 3pm. Venue: Stone Cottages, Kirstenbosch.

Cost: R750 per week or R180 per day, R50 per child in the group to spend on materials. Contact Tahirih: 084 873 4711, 4elementalkids@gmail.com or visit elementalkids.co.za GrandWest holiday programme Children meet Father Christmas, human statues, ballet dancers, magicians, stilt walkers, mime artists, jugglers, clowns, balloon sculptors, face painters and wandering minstrels and can participate in snowman building competitions. 1 December–6 January. Time: 11am–3pm and 4pm–8pm. Venue: GrandWest. Cost: varies. For more info: visit grandwest.co.za Grow a Tale summer holiday programme Children engage in outdoor activities, interactive storytelling, December 2012 / January 2013

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10–14 December – JellyBean Events summer holiday workshop

creative movement, drama, nature craft making and games, facilitated by Lisa Cohen and Jess Tyrrell. 10–14 December. Time: 9am–12pm for 5–7 year olds and 2pm–5pm for 8–11 year olds. Venue: Longkloof, Hout Bay. Cost: R175 per child per day. Contact Lisa: 083 644 4980 or lisa@growatale.co.za Gumboot Parties holiday club They keep the children busy with art, crafts, games and farm fun. 10–14 December; 17–21 December; 7–15 January. Time: 7:30am–5:30pm. Venue: Gan Eden Farm, Vissershok Rd, Durbanville. Cost: R50 for a half-day and R100 for a full day, per child.

Contact: info@gumbootparties.co.za

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Holiday cooking classes with Nice Touch 10–21 December. Time: 10 December, 10am, peach or apple crumble; 11 December, 12:45pm, cupcakes; 12 December, 10am, sushi and Rice Krispies biscuits; 13 December, 9am, strawberry shortbreads; 14 December, 10am, pizza and Smarties cookies; 18 December, 10am, pancakes and milkshakes; 19 December, 10am, butter cookies; 20 December, 9am, chocolate animal moulds; 21 December, 10am, kitka rolls and choc dipped berries. Max 15 children per class.

Venue: St James Church Hall, Sea Point.

Cost: R100 per child per lesson, including ingredients, a drink, fruit, an art activity and recipes. Contact: janis@nicetouch.co.za or visit nicetouch.co.za Holiday stage school In the Helen O’Grady Drama Academy’s holiday programme, children 5–18 years old work on a musical, which is performed in a theatre to a public audience at the end of the week. This year’s show is Romeo and Juliet. Age groups are 5–8 years, 9–12 years and 13–18 years old. 17–22 December.

Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Athenaeum, Newlands. Cost: R900 for the week.

Contact: 021 674 7478, info@dramaafrica. com or visit dramaafrica.com Holiday swimming booster clinics Oneon-one lessons in an indoor, heated sevenmetre pool. Suitable for beginners and pupils wanting to improve/learn strokes, dives and tumble turns. 10–14 December and 7–11 January. Time: varies. Venue: 104

Queen Victoria Rd, Claremont. Cost: from R140 per clinic. Contact Rochelle: 021 674 7681 or headstartswim@gmail.com JellyBean Events summer holiday workshop Minute to Win It, hip-hop, modern and ballet dancing, festivity crafts, and design and technology. For 5–13 year olds. 10–14 December. Time: 9am–1pm.

Venue: Erin Hall, Erin Rd, Rondebosch. Cost: R170 per day or R800 for the week. Contact: 083 392 9593, bookings@jellybeanworld. co.za or visit jellybeanworld.co.za

Kidz Discovery summer fun factory holiday club They offer a fun-filled, semi-structured morning that includes art and crafts, baking, face painting, dress-up, role play, a fairy garden, clambering on climbing walls and a jungle gym, crazy dancing and story time. Programme for 2–4 year olds on Tuesday and Thursday; special craft club on Wednesday and Friday for 4–8 year olds and Monday broader age groups. 10–21 December.

Time: 9:30am–12:30pm, Monday–Friday.

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The clinic comprises one-on-one lessons in an indoor, heated pool. There is also a changing room and safe parking. You are required to book a time slot between 8am and 1pm. 10–21 December. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: Flippers Swim School, Oxford Rd, Observatory. Cost: five-day clinic R300, 10-day clinic R500. Contact Nikki: 083 747 9196 or info@flippersswimschool.co.za

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12 December–9 January – Snowman Building at the Ice Station, every Wednesday

Venue: Kidz Discovery, The Drive, Camps Bay. Cost: R130, including a full snack, baking and craft materials. Contact Kathy: 083 654 2494, info@kidzdiscovery.co.za or visit kidzdiscovery.co.za Kidz on the Move For healthy, fun activities.

10–14 December and 7–11 January. Time: 8:30am–12pm. Venue: Newlands. Cost: R950 per week. Contact: 021 659 5600 or visit ssisa.com/programmes/wellness/kidzon-the-move Kronendal Holiday Club Throughout the December holidays, except 23 December–

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2 January. Activities include art and crafts, drumming, baking, mountain hiking, beach walks and swimming. Time: 8am–6pm.

Venue: Kronendal Primary School, Andrews Rd, Hout Bay. Cost: until 1pm R80 (bring own snack), until 3pm R110 (includes lunch and snack), until 6pm R140 (includes lunch and snack). Contact: 076 402 2333 or joannefrost.s.a@gmail.com Muizenberg Waterslide opens Lifeguards on duty, sheltered seating with tables, refreshments available and heated pools. Night riding available on Fridays.

Time: 12pm–5:30pm, Monday–Friday; 9:30am–5:30pm Saturday and Sunday.

Venue: Beach Rd, Muizenberg. Cost: R40 per person. Contact Rob: 021 788 4759 or 082 454 5023 Ratanga Junction Open 30 November– 15 January. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Century City. Cost: R152 for over 1,3m, R75 for under 1,3m, R50 for a non-rider fun pass, R50 a ride on the Slingshot. Contact: 021 550 8504 or visit ratanga.co.za Rugbytots holiday camp Expert and well-supervised camps for 2–7 year olds.

10–14 December. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: visit the website for details. Cost: R620.

Contact Steed: 079 410 1728, steed@ rugbytots.co.za or visit rugbytots.co.za Santa’s Workshop Free children’s entertainment and drop-and-shop zone.

14–23 December. Time: 12:30pm–2pm.

Venue: N1 City Mall. Cost: free. Contact: 021 595 1170 or visit n1citymall.co.za

Shift Groups’ holiday programme for teens A life skills holiday programme for teens and preteens, which includes geocaching, nature walks and creative activities. Teens going into Grade 8, 9 or 10 in 2013 go on 10–14 December. Preteens going into Grade 6 or 7 in 2013 go on 7–11 January. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Little Stream Centre, Constantia. Cost: R1 250, which includes snacks, lunch and all activities. Contact Roxy: 072 369 7368, info@shiftgroups.co.za or visit shiftgroups.co.za Snowman Building at the Ice Station 12 December–9 January. Time: 10:30am–12:30pm, every Wednesday.

Venue: Ice Station, GrandWest Casino, Goodwood. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 535 2260 or visit icerink.co.za Snow World at Canal Walk Snow World is a complete 300m2 indoor snow environment, which includes a play area for the little ones, thrilling toboggan and iceslide rides, an ice climbing wall and a toddler dragon slide. 7 December–6 January. Time: 10am–10pm daily (excluding Christmas).

Venue: Centre Court, Canal Walk Shopping Centre. Cost: R60 per session and R100 for the climbing wall. For more info: visit canalwalk.co.za SoundHouse holiday programme Music technology holiday workshops for children of all ages. For 6–18 year olds.

10–21 December. Time: 10am–4:30pm.

Venue: Cape Town Science Centre,

370B Main Rd, Observatory. Cost: R70–R200. Contact Meryl: 021 447 0018, info@soundhouse.co.za or visit soundhouse.co.za Sporting Academy Kids Holiday Inc The holiday clinics include soccer, hiphop dancing and horse riding. For 4–13 year olds. 17–20 December, 7–10 or 14–17 January. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Meadowridge FC Constantia, Claremont and the False Bay region. Cost: R120 per day or R390 for four days. Contact: 084 777 1212

14 November–15 January – Tyger Valley Ice Rink

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calendar Table View Library holiday programme 10 December: art and crafts; 11 December: Table View gladiators, 12 December: make and fly a kite, 13 December: art and crafts, 14 December: picnic and games. For 5 years and older. 10–14 December. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Table View Library, Birkenhead Rd. Cost: R5 per day. Contact: 021 557 8995 The Playshed holiday hours They’re open throughout the school holidays.

10 December–16 January, excluding 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January. For 0–10 year olds. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue The Playshed, Oude Molen Village, Alexandra Rd, Pinelands. Cost: 6–12 months R15, 1 and 2 year olds R25, and 3 years and older R30 for first hour. Contact: 021 801 0141 or playshed@gmail.com Tots n Pots Constantia holiday programme Children have fun with holiday recipes and create a dish of their own to take home. For 2–10 year olds.

10–15 and 18–21 December. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue 107 Dreyersdal Rd, Bergvliet. Cost: R120 per class and R350 for three classes. Contact Hannah: 082 569 8666 or constantia@totsnpots.com Tyger Valley Ice Rink Open 14 November–15 January. Time: 9am–7pm.

Venue: Tyger Valley Shopping Precinct. Cost: R40. For more info: visit tygervalley.co.za V&A Waterfront kids’ festive season programme Zumbatonic classes for children, Minute to Win It-inspired games, mouse puppet shows and Christmas craft workshops. For 4–10 year olds. 8–23 December. Time: 12:15pm–4pm. Venue: new children’s playground, Market Plaza, V&A Waterfront. Cost: free. Contact: 021 408 7600 or info@waterfront.co.za Valley Farmstall holiday fun A funfilled weekend at this new, safe playground where there is a jumping castle, boerewors rolls and other treats for the family. 8–10 December. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Valley Farmstall, Valley Rd, Hout Bay. Cost: free entry. Contact Tami: 079 323 6290 or valleyfarmstall@gmail.com

markets Century City Natural Goods Market An outdoor market with stalls shaded under Bedouin tents. Visitors can picnic between shopping expeditions and their children can enjoy pony rides. There is a dedicated children’s space and families can take a boat ride around Intaka Island. 2 December.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Central Park, Century City. Cost: free. Contact: 021 531 2173 or naturalgoodsmarket@gmail.com

Christmas Market with Stellenbosch Slowmarket This vintage-style authentic market has all the best Christmas trimmings. 1 December. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: Oude Libertas. Cost: free. Contact Karin: 021 886 8514, admin@slowmarket. co.za or visit slowmarket.co.za Constantia Waldorf night market Shop from stalls selling food, art and crafts, and enjoy entertainment designed for adults and children. 25 January. Time: 5pm–9pm.

Venue: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat Rd, Constantia. Cost: R5 entry and secure parking R20 per car. Contact: info@constantiawaldor fnightmarket. co.za, visit the Facebook group Constantia Waldorf Night Market or visit constantiawaldorfnightmarket.co.za Kloovenburg Christmas Market Day Get produce and ideas for your Christmas table and buy stocking fillers and presents for friends and family. 15 December. Time: 9:30am–3pm. Venue: Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate, Riebeek Kasteel. Contact: 022 448 1635, info@kloovenburg.com or visit kloovenburg.com Laborie Lazy Days Christmas market Take your pick of wonderfully traditional Christmas fare such as Christmas cakes and pork pies, as well as beautiful decorations.

8 and 9 December. Time: 9am–3pm.

Contact: 021 807 3390, info@laboriewines. co.za, join their Facebook page or visit laboriewines.co.za Simply South Indoor Gift and Craft Market One hundred crafters showcase their handcrafted products. A glassengraving artist is on hand to personalise your gift. Light snacks are available. A special raffle is held to raise funds for Meals on Wheels. 26 November–9 December.

Time 10am–7:30pm, Monday–Friday; 10am–5pm, Saturday; 11am–4pm, Sunday.

Venue: Plumstead Methodist Church, Brenda Rd, Plumstead. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 021 703 8827 or 083 618 6366 The River Club Boutique Market There is delicious food, local and international, charcuterie, cheese, jewellery, clothing, décor, furniture and body products and a line-up of local performers. The children’s area has a petting zoo, train rides, jumping castle, craft station and more. 9 December.

Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: The River Club, off Liesbeek Parkway, Observatory. Cost: R10 entry and children free, half of all proceeds go to Mamelani Projects. For more info: visit http://riverclubmarket. blogspot.com Tokai Earth Fair Market Time: 9am, 8 December: interactive puppet show. Create

15 December – Kloovenburg Christmas Market Day

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10–13, 18–21 December and 7–10 January – Cricket School of Excellence holiday clinic

your own chapter in the puppet show. Time: 10am, 15 December: festive cupcakes and face painting. Time: 9am, 19 December: make your own festive decorations with recycled materials. Time: 3pm, 22 December: festive cracker day. Venue: South Palms, Main Rd. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit earthfairmarket.co.za

on stage and screen Adventures in Zambezia premieres Set in a bustling bird city on the edge of the majestic Victoria Falls, this is the story of Kai, a naive, but high-spirited, young falcon. He travels to the bird city of Zambezia, where he discovers the truth about his origins and, in defending the city, learns how to be part of a community. 26 December. For more info: visit numetro. co.za or sterkinekor.com Carols by candlelight Join in traditional Christmas carols, accompanied by the Cape Town Concert Brass and the Cape Town Male Voice Choir. The event is a fundraiser for many needy charities. 13–15 December.

Time: 5pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cost: adults R65, 6–18 year olds R45 and 2–5 year olds R10 on 13 December; adults R75, 6–18 year olds R55 and 2–5 year olds R15 on 14–16 December. Entrance fee includes a glowstick and song-sheet. Contact: carols@ kirstenboschrotary.co.za Hope Music Festival See the Parlotones, Watershed and Margaret’s Daughter, The Muffins and Tailor. There is gourmet food, Elgin wines, a cash bar and a children’s zone, but you can also take a picnic.

1 December. Time: 3pm. Venue: Elgin Country Club, Elgin Valley, Grabow. Cost: adults R150, children R80. Contact: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za The Little Mermaid at The Baxter 4 December–5 January. Time: 10am and 12pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: Flipside Stage, Baxter Theatre Centre. Cost: adults R70, children R60. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za

Lounge, 71 Roeland St, Gardens. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 462 2425 or booklounge@ gmail.com Spur playtime Seven Spur, Arthurs Rd Sea Point. 11 December: magician and balloon modelling. Time: 10am–12pm.

18 December: puppet show and balloon modelling. Time: 10am–12pm. Contact: 021 439 5536. Golden River Spur, Fish Hoek. 11 December: magician and balloon modelling. Time: 1pm–3pm. 18 December: puppet show and balloon modelling. Time: 1pm–3pm. Contact: 021 782 2631. Little Creek Spur, Tokai. 13 December: magician and balloon modelling. Time: 10am–12pm.

20 December: Puppet show and balloon modelling. Time: 10am–12pm. Contact: 021 715 8283. Cost: R60, which includes entertainment, burger and chips and DIY ice cream

sport and physical activities Cricket School of Excellence holiday clinic Holiday clinics for ages 4–13 years old.

Students are taught the basics of the game from batting to bowling as well as fielding and general knowledge. It concludes with a match on the final day and a prize-giving.

10–13, 18–21 December and 7–10 January.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venues: Rondebosch Boys’ High School, Herzlia Constantia, Jan van Riebeeck Primary School, Parklands College Secondary School, Durbanville Cricket Club and Eikestad Primary School, Stellenbosch. Cost: R500 per student or R950 for two students from the same family. Contact William: 021 671 9460, 084 249 9969, info@cricketschool.co.za or visit cricketschool.co.za

Dirtopia MTB festival A jam-packed weekend with activities such as night rides, trail riding, gravity events (downhill, dual and dirt jumping), crosscountry fun rides, a trail run and children’s activities. 14–17 December. Time: 12pm. Venue: Tarentaalkraal campsite, near Greyton in the Overberg. Cost: R150–R200 per day, which includes camping and riding. Dirt-pass holders receive a T-shirt and goodie bag. Contact: theteam@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za

14 fri

playtime and story time Niki Daly reads The Herd Boy Awardwinning South African author Niki Daly shares his story about a boy who dares to dream big about his future. This book is inspired by former president Nelson Mandela. Niki is also there for a signing and children can design their own flags.

15 December. Time: 11am. Venue: Book magazine cape town

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calendar Football coaching Fun football coaching conducted by a SAFA-accredited coach.

For 5–11 year olds. Time: call to enquire; Monday, Friday and Saturday. Venue: Beaumont Primary School and Radloff Park, Somerset West. Cost: R550 per term for twice a week, R300 per term for once a week. Contact Ryan: 073 091 3785, footballcoachryan@gmail.com or visit helderbergfootballcoaching.co.za Kirstenhof Dance and Pilates Studio Ballet, modern, hip-hop dancing and Pilates classes. Time: varies. Venue: 14 Windhover St, Kirstenhof (close to Blue Route Mall) Cost: varies for group or private sessions.

Contact Liane: 021 701 2750, 082 739 0100 or lianepenny@gmail.com

New Year’s Eve Sunset Hike Enjoy the sunset over Table Mountain with stunning views of the Winelands, while nibbling on snacks on Klapmutskop with a glass of bubbly to toast the New Year. 31 December.

Time: 5:30pm. Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm, R44 between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch. Cost: R90 per person, R45 for children under 10, includes a glass of sparkling wine at the top and juice for the children. Contact: 021 884 4752, theteam@ dirtopia.co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Teddy Tennis Teddy Tennis inspires a generation of young children, 2½–7 years, to get active and play tennis. Time: tbc, mornings. Venue: Glen Country Club, Clifton. For more info and costs, contact: mark@teddytennis.com Totalsports Challenge Choose between the seven-discipline Totalsports Challenge or the four-discipline Totalsports Terra Firma Challenge. 12 December. Time: varies.

Venue: starts Gordon’s Bay Beachfront; ends Kleinmond beachfront. Cost: varies. Contact: 021 511 7130 or visit totalsports.co.za

only for parents classes, talks and workshops

Football coaching on Monday, Friday and Saturday

Cake decorating classes with Grace Stevens Learn how to model a standing bride and groom out of fondant. 1 and 8 December. Time: 9:30am–2pm. Venue: 18 Abbotsford Ave, Constantia. Cost:

R700 for both sessions, booking essential; all materials included. Contact Bianca: classes@cupcakesbydesign.co.za or visit cupcakesbydesign.co.za Camelot Riding School adult camp They focus on various aspects of riding from warming up to developing independence of the aids. Lunch and snacks provided.

15 December. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Herta Erna Rd, Schoongezicht, Durbanville.

Cost: R400. Contact Lize: 083 261 7656, info@camelotridingschool.co.za or visit camelotridingschool.co.za CPR for family and friends A practical and basic level of CPR training. Time and venues: 1 December, 9am–12:30pm, Constantiaberg Mediclinic; 15 December, 9am–12:30pm, Milnerton Mediclinic. Cost: R250 inclusive of VAT. Contact: 021 705 6459 or training@pec.co.za Delicious and divine cooking classes Week one: Italian; week two: Indian; week three: Moroccan; week four: Asian.

Time: 7pm–9pm, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Venue: Constantia or client’s house where travel costs are incurred. Cost: R200 per two-hour class, which includes two take-home recipes. Contact Aisha: 021 794 1324, 076 129 9192 or aisha@ bokhararugs.co.za Paediatric CPR and first-aid course 1 December. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Milnerton Mediclinic. Cost: R300 per person, including manual. Contact: daniele. milner@er24.co.za

12 December –Totalsports Challenge

Understanding and dealing with anxiety in children This workshop is for parents and educators and is based on using the DIR: Floortime Approach. It is presented

by Kerry Wallace, an occupational therapist, and explores how certain sensory profiles and environmental triggers affect anxiety levels in young children and how parents and educators can support them in selfregulating emotionally, by staying engaged and maintaining circles of communication.

The workshop provides practical ideas on how to manage anxiety. 23 January.

Time: 7pm–9pm. Venue: Polkaspot Early

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Intervention Centre, 21 Roodehek St, Gardens. Cost: R200. Contact: 021 462 1508 or info@polkaspot.co.za

on stage and screen Face The Music 2 Have you got the brains to take on their quiz? This round has powerful harmonies, slick choreography and three glamorous girls – an hour of world-class entertainment to get the whole family in the groove. Play the game or be a spectator.

12–15 December, 18–23 December, 27–31 December and 2–6 January. Time: 8:30pm.

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Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. Cost: R100. For more info: visit kbt.co.za

out and about Holden Manz picnics The boutique wine estate offers an indulgence with a new picnic menu. Time: tbc. Venue: Holden Manz Wine Estate, Green Valley Rd, Franschhoek.

Cost: picnics cost R160 per person. Each basket for two, includes a bottle of mineral water. Fine Holden Manz wine can be bought from the cellar. Contact: 021 876 2729 or visit holdenmanz.com

Capriccio!

Arts Powered Pre-school parent information week This is an opportunity for families to meet the team, see the facilities, learn more about the school and how they apply the Montessori approach as well as what arts-powered learning is all about. For parents of 2–5 year olds. 3–7 December. Time: by appointment. Venue: 10A Ascot Rd, Milnerton.

Cost: free. Contact Elbe: 021 551 7008, info@ artspreschool.co.za or visit artspreschool.co.za

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World Aids Day Gala Concert This event is presented by The Africa Centre for HIV and AIDS Management. Jimmie Earl Perry shares the stage with international opera sopranos Golda Schultz and Janelle Visagie. Fourteen-year-old Stellenbosch High School student Roné Roux debuts with the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. 1 December. Time: 8pm. Venue: Artscape Opera House. Cost: R80 or R100. Contact: Artscape Dial-a-Seat or Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za

support groups Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) parent support group Every six weeks, there are meetings run with children at 2pm and for parents only at 7pm. Venue: Rainbow Centre, unit 29 Waverley Business Park, Dane St, Mowbray. Contact: 021 448 3812, health2@triangle.org.za or visit triangle. org.za or visit their Facebook page Proud 2B – LGBTI Parents Stillbirth support meeting For parents grieving the loss of a stillborn child. 19 December and 16 January. Time: 11am.

Venue: Mowbray Maternity Hospital. Cost: free. Contact: marily60@gmail.com Turning Point support group An NPO that provides assistance and services to battered women and their children and survivors of domestic violence. Contact Lynia: 072 197 3808 or visit http:// turningpoint.wozaonline.co.za

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Motherhood Matters baby massage classes A four-week baby massage course where moms learn the benefits of massage. Ideal for infants 4 weeks old up to 6 months. 23 and 30 January. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue: Kirstenhof. Cost: R500. Contact Megan: 071 875 2668 or visit motherhoodmatters.co.za Prenatal yoga classes Pregnant women learn gentle postures, breath work, sound and meditation. 6 and 13 December.

Time: 5:30pm–6:30pm. Venue: Lila Yoga Studio, 201 Bree St. Cost: R80 per class, R295 for five classes, R550 for 10 classes. Contact Nicole: 083 377 9248, nicole@lila-yogatherapy.com or visit lilayogatherapy.com

playtime and story time Drama Tots open day An opportunity to experience part of the Drama Tots programme.

Activities include an interactive drama class for moms/carers and tots to learn and have fun together.

Encourages confident and expressive tots aged 1–4 years old. 4 and 6 December.

Time: 9am–11am (1–2½ years old) and 3pm–5pm (2½–4 years old). Venue: Bantry Bay. Cost: free, booking essential. Contact: 083 445 5978, info@dramatots.co.za or visit dramatots.co.za

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calendar

The Carel du Toit Centre for Hearing Impaired Children

Moms and Babes Claremont classes Join these mom-and-baby stimulation classes for 2–12 month olds. Classes are age dependent.

Time: 10am and 3pm. Venue: 36 Water St, Claremont. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 671 8690 or 082 746 3223

support groups La Leche League’s breast-feeding support groups Kenridge: 3 December.

Contact: Rosemary 021 910 0606.

Durbanville: 4 December. Contact Trudy: 021 913 2816 or Tiffany: 021 913 3586.

Parow: telephone support, contact Irma: 073 513 1056. Milnerton Mediclinic: 4 December at 9:30am. Contact Juliet: 021 556 0693. Parklands Intercare: telephone support, contact Simela: 021 553 1664. Paarl: 4 December. Contact Jonette: 021 872 5297.

Tokai: 11 December. Contact Becky: 021 531 2485. Fish Hoek: 4 December. Contact Tammy: 021 782 9240. Stellenbosch: 11 December. Contact Olga: 082 062 0206 or Francia: 082 940 9685. Malmesbury telephonic support: Contact Selma: 083 265 5458. Napier telephonic support: contact Emma: 082 696 3584. Time: 10am, unless otherwise stated. Cost: free.

Moms First therapeutic group A space to share the challenges of motherhood.

More support is needed around the festive season and the group is looking at this in more detail. Facilitated by Penelope Garden,

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a therapist and mom. Time: 10am–11:30am, every Wednesday. No groups on 26 December and 2 January. Venue: 3 Prospect Hill Rd, Wynberg. Cost: R200 per session.

Contact: 073 786 6781 or pengarden@ vodamail.co.za Parent Centre support groups Thursday group time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Kingsbury Hospital. Visit the Facebook page: Thursday moms group. Tuesday group time: 10:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Mediclinic Cape Town. Visit the Facebook page: Tuesday moms group. Cost: R40, including refreshments.

For more info: visit theparentcentre.org.za

how to help Baphumelele Child Headed Homes They give aid to children who have lost both their parents and are left to care for their siblings. Their needs are food and shelter, and the team does try to assist them further in continuing their education, applying for grants and ID documents. Contact Sonia: 084 788 3399 or soniawanda@gmail.com Merriman Lions Reading Action Plan The team supports local schools without libraries. Help them by contributing quality used or new books in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa. Contact Clive: 021 559 1440 or merrimanlions65@gmail.com The Carel du Toit Centre for Hearing Impaired Children The centre plays a leading role in the plight of the deaf child in South Africa. There is an urgent need for more staff and classrooms. Help by contributing funds. Contact: 021 938 5303 or visit careldutoit.co.za Zamokuhle Crèche Christmas project They provide skills development to underprivileged women and children, in an effort to help them to earn a sustainable income. They have three projects: greeting cards, stationery, and beaded jewellery and Aids ribbons. Contact: 072 682 9661 or ukuthulatrust@vodamail.co.za

if you’re heading to joburg 7 december Pick n Pay Taste of Christmas Celebrate the flavours of the festive season with plenty of food and drink, homeware, fashion, accessories and other goodies. The city’s top restaurants can only inspire your next menu with their mouthwatering bites, while stalls of boutique suppliers help you with supplies. Ends 9 December.

Time: 12pm–9pm, Friday–Saturday; 12pm–6pm, Sunday. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, Northriding. Cost: from R80. For more info: visit tasteofchristmas.co.za

8 december The Gerber Gear Mud Run Conquer the 12km (18 years or older), 5km (12 years or older) or 2km (4–12 years old) trail run with various awesome obstacles to get you down and dirty. Come face to face with The Zombie Apocalypse, scurry through Snipers Alley, and get close to nature with the tunnel crawls. Enter at Trappers Trading Stores in Fourways, Northgate or Boksburg and be sure to bring a change of clothing. Space is limited. Time: 7:30am. Venue: Avianto Clubhouse, Muldersdrift.

Cost: adults from R250, children R80. For more info: visit ilumin8events.com

14 december Ballooning adventure weekend Spend the weekend with your head in the clouds and all your needs tended to by the skilled hotel chefs. Set off in a hot-air balloon on Saturday morning and spend your afternoon trying out archery, lawn croquet, boules, badminton, volleyball and more. Ends 16 December. Venue: De Hoek Country Hotel, off the R563, near Bekker School, Hekpoort, Magaliesburg. Cost: R9 995 per couple (all inclusive). Contact: 014 577 9600, reservations@dehoek.com or visit dehoek.com

if you’re heading to durban 11 december Animal Tails II Following on from last year’s hit show Animal Tails, audiences can meet old and new characters, including Winnie the Warthog and Monkey Jones.

There is plenty of music, dance and sing-along songs, plus some slapstick humour for the adults. Ends 22 December. Time: 11am. Venue: Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf. Cost: R50, boat rides are an added extra. Contact Catalina Theatre Box Office: 031 305 6889

12 december Mr Price Rotary Christmas Fantasy An evening of fun for children, with fantasy characters, train rides, face painting, a jumping castle and more. You won’t want to miss the arrival of Father Christmas, who will be giving out gifts. Ends 15 December.

Time: 5:45pm–8:30pm. Venue: Durban Model Engineers, Hinton Grove, Virginia.

Cost: adults R55, children R95. Contact Hilary: 082 556 0299 or visit computicket.com

don’t miss out!

13 december

For a free listing, email your event to capetown@childmag.co.za or fax it to 021 462 2680. Information must be received by 4 January for the February 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

Dolphins by Starlight It’s Christmas with a twist, and a leap and a splash, as the uShaka Dolphins ring in the festive season with Christmas songs. Ends 16 December.

Time: 7pm. Venue: Standard Bank Dolphin Stadium, uShaka Marine World. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

December 2012 / January 2013

magazine cape town

it’s party time For more help planning your child’s party visit

childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties

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it’s party time continued...

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finishing touch

extreme parenting A feline’s fall from grace teaches ANÉL LEWIS a

ustrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner, also known as “Fearless Felix”, shattered the sound barrier when he jumped off a stratospheric balloon to freefall almost 39 kilometres to earth. In an unassuming garden, somewhere at the tip of Africa, Domino did the same.

But unlike Felix, Domino did so without the adulation and cheers of onlookers and millions of viewers. Domino is our cat; our long-suffering feline companion who has survived several moves, two of them between cities, and most recently, an unexpected fall from space – and grace.

You see, Domino was hijacked by some children who were at a party at our house. Unbeknown to us, as we were blithely passing around cupcakes and sausage rolls, our poor cat was being

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Erin, Anél and Conor

suspended from the top of the trampoline.

Granted, Domino may not have broken any speed records with her fall, but she still plummeted a good metre or so, and she did so a couple of times more than Felix. Fortunately for our hapless jumper, I managed to rescue her before any serious harm was done. And, barring a few bald spots and a slight case of vertigo, Domino seems none the worse for wear.

The incident did raise some interesting questions though about discipline – of other people’s children. With Erin it’s easy enough. She has grasped the concept of a time-out, and just a look from her father is enough to stop her in her tracks.

My children are no angels though, and Erin can wreak just as much havoc when we are out as the next child. At a rather posh event recently, I caught her doing her

own form of graffiti tagging on the white walls of the organiser’s upmarket mansion.

I gave her a stern talking-to, confiscated the crayon and promptly excused myself from the party. But what do you do when the instigator is someone else’s child?

And, even worse, what if you don’t know the parents that well?

Well, I opted for the diplomatic approach after the trampoline incident and made a general comment to all the parents there that “the children” had been caught tormenting our family pet.

They promptly spoke to their respective progeny, explaining that the cat was not to be carried, elevated or suspended in any way. A few moments later, however, I noticed that my Pilates ball, which has seen me through my tight twenties, when I couldn’t afford furniture and it doubled as

a core-strengthening desk chair, and two pregnancies, being rolled to the bottom of the garden. I wanted to rush down there and save it, but then I thought: it’s just a ball, and children need to be allowed some room to play.

Alas, it has been a good few days since the party and Domino’s petrifying plunge, but the Pilates ball is missing in action. I just hope that the cat, perhaps still drunk on adrenaline from her brush with neardeath, is not working on a new stunt for our next gathering.

Anél Lewis is Child magazine’s features editor. She would like to confirm that no animals were harmed in the making of this blog, although a few children were threatened with their life if they didn’t listen. Follow her on Twitter:@ ChildMagParent

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PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

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few things about children and discipline.