Child Magazine | Cape Town March 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

online research useful tips and top sites

to do is to learn

raising a self-reliant & confident child

pick the right preschool

10

questions you should ask

getaways hit the road, jack we’ve mapped a route for you to explore

perfect padkos

www.childmag.co.za

March 2013

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health

to spice up your trip

education

entertainment

Hunter House PUB L IS H ING

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

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor 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 Lisa Waterloo • waterloo@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money.

– Susan Heller Then take half the clothes and twice the money.

Wise words indeed, and certainly applicable to our last holiday.

As my children have grown older, travelling has become easier and our destinations more adventurous. They’ve had to. With a seven-year age difference between my daughters, our holidays need to appeal to their varied interests.

I have always thought that a skiing holiday would be a great way for us all to reconnect and have some fun. So last December, we did just that.

With no pushchairs or prams, holidays are certainly lighter on the load, if not on the pocket, and the week spent on the slopes of the French Alps was definitely worth every cent. It was a fantastic way to completely remove ourselves from the mundane routine of our everyday lives.

As my husband and I, along with our youngest, were skiing for the first time we signed up for the debutant’s class. I love the French – only they could make our clumsy debut on the snow sound so elegant. My eldest, Julian, being the well-travelled teenager that she is, had skied before and she joined a more advanced class. The funny thing about skiing is that no one tells you how hard it is. On day three, I had to remind myself of Winston Churchill’s quote: “If you are going through hell, keep going.”

We did, and now when we sit around the dinner table we have stories to share of snow ploughing, face plants, bruised ribs and, my personal favourite, of having to drop four metres off a moving chair lift because I’d left it too late, only to plough into a group of very trendy snowboarders. It was painful for me; deeply humiliating for my children.

Now that you know how I spent my last holiday, I hope you’ll visit our Facebook page and share some of your travel experiences. We’d love to hear what worked, or didn’t, on your last getaway.

Julian and Lisa Mc Namara

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

Cape Town’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 7, Canterbury Studios, 35 Wesley Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 021 465 6093, fax: 021 462 2680,

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March 2013

3

contents

march 2013

upfront 3

a note from lisa

5 over to you readers respond

features 14 i can do it

Lisa Lazarus explains the importance of teaching your children to be self-reliant

18 when your domestic helper’s

role changes your domestic helper might be the nanny you’re looking for.

By Lucille Kemp 20 smart from the start

im Maxwell gives you 10 questions K you should ask when choosing a preschool for your child

14 health 6

volume control

protect your child’s hearing with the right earphones. By Tamlyn Vincent

regulars

22 surf with savvy

7 upfront with paul

Bianca Wright gives tips on how to properly research online

24 off the record

10 pregnancy news – birth partners

doing the school run is a great opportunity for parents and children to bond and share, says Christina Castle 25 happy travels Lynne O’Connor shares her family’s tips on how to make the journey as much fun as the destination 26 fabulous food on the move great padkos inspiration from Leanne Katzenellenbogen’s book Simple, Fabulous Lunchbox Ideas

aul Kerton is not a fan of P permanent tattoos Françoise Gallet looks at care options when you’re having a baby

11 best for baby – a pain in the gums

there are ways to alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort, says Anél Lewis

12 dealing with difference

Glynis Horning explains dysnomia, a rare learning difficulty where sufferers struggle with words

30 resource – one for the road

follow the Cape Country Meander and discover these getaway gems.

Compiled by Lucille Kemp 32 a good read

new books for the whole family

34 what’s on in march 46 finishing touch

22

t eam Lewis – dad, mom and children – are gearing up for the big race. By Anél Lewis

classified ads 40 family marketplace 43 let’s party

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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March 2013

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

ninasaycheese ninasaycheese.com

Il Gufo Photograph: Stefano Azario Jelli Children’s Boutique

Natasha Brooks Photography natashabrooks.com

ninasaycheese ninasaycheese.com

magazine cape town

letters

smell the roses

thanks Child magazine

In response to the article “smell the roses” (December 2012/January 2013): we hopped off the rat race treadmill 23 years ago and have never been happier. It’s financially more restricting, but the joy of watching children in our hamlet able to grow up as children, creating happy childhood memories and growing colourful imaginations, is food for the soul. Our days are jammed full of “things” we need to do, but we are now also able to smell the roses, even amongst the prickles. Yesterday’s prickle was discovering a porcupine had dug under the fence and eaten my broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Anonymous

I received a copy of your magazine and I would like to pass on my appreciation. It is very informative and, as a dad, I really enjoyed it. It is more than an excellent read.

Solomon Kelaetse

pro modern medicine

This is a note of appreciation for Child magazine’s kind book donation to the Wits Speech Pathology and Audiology Xanthia Library project.

Nicola Burger

I am not an apologist for the medical profession or the pharmaceutical industry – they have amply documented weaknesses, deficiencies and shortcomings. That said, the scientific method and modern medicine have strong records of achievement in eradicating deadly diseases, increasing life expectancy, making childbirth safer, and providing an improved quality of life. Alternative medicine such as homeopathy can make no such claims. In fact, alternative medicines do not work. If they did, they would become a part of mainstream medicine. Since they contain no active ingredient, they would be extremely cheap and a massive boon to mankind. The notion that “like cures like” is unsupported by any scientific theory or evidence.

Peter Gilbert

Our school received a copy of your magazine and it was a great discovery. We enjoyed reading the articles, and we have already contacted your various advertisers for playground equipment among other things.

Kobie van Es

“sweet dreams” blog In response to the reader’s blog (February 2013): the complete unconditional love you have for your child while enjoying your own space really touched me as a mother. You ask if it is wrong that you love your daughter just a wee bit more when she’s asleep?

No. As mothers, we know our needs and wants are not a priority. We should embrace our choices and the feeling we get from that will spill out onto all the people we love.

Carla Orkin

don’t bad-mouth the teacher

when the sun shines…

I recently took my grandchild to a birthday party. There were plenty of moms there who spent their time questioning the teachers’ methods, which I thought was disrespectful.

Is it right to bad-mouth teachers behind their backs or should one rather meet with the teacher, and discuss the problem at hand?

Concerned gran

We have been experiencing some excruciatingly hot weather lately and I ask the question; why do our school children have to wear blazers? It is an outdated English tradition and we live in very sunny South Africa. Couldn’t we replace it with a cooler and equally formallooking cotton waistcoat?

Nicci

over to you thanks to the teachers Thank you for your article, “so, you should know…”

(February 2013). My eldest son’s temper tantrums and screaming fits are a thing of the past, thanks to his teacher who worked with me and showed me how to cope. My younger son has refused to talk and this year his teacher has been working to turn his mumbling into understandable words. These are just two loving teachers who have helped me, the parent.

Roisin Losco

in response to “get those shots” (February 2013) It saddens me that the parents who read this article will be under the impression that it is the only way to go.

I’ve found alarming evidence on the negative aspects of vaccines. If it’s not compulsory to immunise our children in this country, surely it’s the parents’ right not to, and to be exposed to some of the negative statistics out there?

Debra This is a controversial issue and as a magazine that reaches thousands of parents I feel you owe it to them to present both sides. You refer to the practice of avoiding vaccinations and depending on herd immunity, as immoral. Have you considered that we are not avoiding vaccinations; we are protecting our children from their harmful effects, and are breaking from the herd mentality that has us in a situation of ADD, autism and compromised immunity problems?

Deidre Kostek, Cape Town

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

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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.

If vaccines work, why would an unvaccinated child pose a threat to a vaccinated one? Vaccines destroy natural immunity and accelerate the autoimmune disease process. Concerns about the preservative thimerosal (a mercury-containing compound) are not even touched upon in the article, let alone those relating to adjuvants and other harmful contaminants. Do you think it’s prudent to make statements about the safety of vaccines in a magazine that is freely distributed?

Sonia de Villiers, Cape Town

Childmag says The World Health Organisation estimates that immunisation saves two to three million lives a year. In a country where 15 percent of deaths in children under five are due to diarrhoea and nine percent are from pneumonia, both of which can be prevented with vaccines, Child magazine has taken the position that we have a moral obligation to vaccinate our children. This decision is based on the overwhelming evidence that vaccination is the most effective and affordable method of preventing serious childhood illnesses.

Writer of the article, Glynis Horning, adds: Where communities have resisted vaccinations, or not had them for other reasons (unavailability of vaccines or lack of access to clinics), there have again been outbreaks; proven risks of not vaccinating far outweigh fears of vaccinations being linked to conditions like autism, which have been extensively scientifically refuted. The argument against vaccinating will always rage, largely by those who favour allopathic medicine

and science, and those who favour alternative health remedies exclusively, offer anecdotal evidence, or are content with small or less than rigorous studies, and attribute commercial interests to the other side.

This article confirms that the choice to vaccinate is the parents’, but when the costs of not vaccinating are so high, and many parents are confused by the welter of websites, blogs and books out there of dubious scientific standing, our position must be to vaccinate.

Rosemary Burnett, senior lecturer in epidemiology in the Department of Public Health at the University of Limpopo, says: The reason unvaccinated children may make some vaccinated children susceptible to infection is because vaccines are not 100 percent effective. The claim that vaccines accelerate the autoimmune disease process is biologically implausible and there is no scientific evidence to support it at all. If we did not use thimerosal in our multi-dose vials, our babies would end up with abscesses or worse.

It would be irresponsible of me not to make statements about the importance of vaccines when I see the risks of not vaccinating. It is my duty as a public health professional to help parents make informed decisions about vaccinating their babies. subscribe to our newsletter and win Our wins have moved online. Please subscribe to our newsletter and enter our weekly competition.

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

March 2013

5

health

volume control You can help protect your child’s hearing by choosing

usic and sound are part of our daily lives. We listen to music for fun and while we exercise and, with advances in classroom technology, children will soon be listening to their cellphones and computer tablets while they learn.

“Noise is one of the main contributors to hearing loss,” says Joburg audiologist Melissa Cooper, who adds that more young people are starting to develop noise-induced hearing loss. This is caused by the volume of music coming through earphones as well as consistent exposure to sound that is just too loud, which creates cumulative damage.

sound it out But figuring out how long to listen to music and at what volume or sound intensity, measured in decibels, can be tricky. To give you an idea, you can listen to noise that is 85 decibels for eight hours a day. This is about the equivalent of heavy traffic or a vacuum cleaner. At 88 decibels, the sound of a hairdryer, you are doubling the sound pressure, so you should halve the listening time. A sound of 91 decibels, equivalent to the hum of a lawnmower, is another doubling, giving you two hours of listening time. Listening to noise for an extended period can also cause hearing fatigue. It’s best to give your ears frequent breaks of peace and quiet.

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March 2013

lawnmower (91 dB)

threshold of pain (130 dB)

hairdryer (88 dB)

vacuum cleaner (85 dB)

normal conversation at 1 to 2m (60 dB)

an earful Exposure to environmental noise is one thing, but how do we curtail the level of sound we pump into our ears via earphones? It can be difficult to monitor the volume at which children listen to music, so the type of earphones they use is important. Richard Baird, an electronics specialist, points out that there is currently no legislation requiring warnings to be printed on earphones and many do not display the sound intensity capacity on the packaging or say how long you can listen for. Thus there’s no indication of how powerful the earphones are. While MP3 players and other devices often allow you to set a volume limit, if the earphones are very powerful, setting the volume won’t help. So it is best to only use earphones that display warnings and decibels, which should be limited to 85 decibels for children and 91 for adults.

The insert earphones play music directly into the ears, and may produce higher sound levels than other types.

Cooper recommends earphones that cover the ears, so there is room for the sound to escape. Noise cancelling earphones that block out background noise mean you don’t have to put the volume up to compensate for external sounds, but they still need to be limited to 85 decibels, and Baird cautions that they can be dangerous if used when you need to be focused on your surroundings.

whisper (20 dB) threshold of hearing (0 dB)

signs of hearing loss in children • not following instructions • struggling to hear in noisy environments such as restaurants • a ringing or a buzzing sound in the ears • extreme sensitivity to loud noises • asking you to repeat things • sound and voices appear muffled or unclear • turning up the television volume

treatment options The hair cells in the ear are damaged by continuous exposure to high noise levels, explains Cooper. This is irreversible and there is no treatment to improve hearing, but hearing aids can be used.

Preventative measures and early detection through hearing tests are your best options.

magazine cape town

ILLUSTRATIONS: shutterstock.com

m

the right earphones, says Tamlyn Vincent.

decibel scale

upfront with paul

no ink, please Body art or not, tattoos are permanent, says PAUL KERTON, who wishes his daughters will rather stick to those temporary ones that peel off.

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

l

ike ear piercing, nail art, hair dying and fashion itself, tattooing is billed as a harmless form of self-expression; merely “pimping” the body beautiful in an artful way. Once the preserve of sailors, with their “I love Mom” hearts and anchors, tattooing has infiltrated the bodies of the young. Fuelled by film stars, pop singers and professional footballers – think Angelina Jolie and David Beckham – tattoos have become a global obsession.

I know people of every age and background with body art, from teenagers with subtle swallows or roses on their ankle or bellybutton to adults with huge gothic tapestries akin to the girl with the dragon tattoo in the eponymous novel and movie.

I was once having a conversation about UFOs with the secretary to the then

magazine cape town

editor of the prestigious Financial Mail, as you do. She revealed that she had a tattoo of a spaceship on her bottom.

This was slightly surprising coming from a woman of her mature years. “Would you like to see it?” she said proudly, sensing my disbelief, and before I could collect myself, she had bent over the editor’s desk and done the necessary with her skirt and pantyhose to reveal a detailed image of a classic flying saucer. I stared, mesmerised, and then, feeling like Basil Fawlty in this sitcom moment, urged her to get her drawers back on before her boss returned.

As you’ve probably picked up, I’ve never been a great fan of tattoos, being brought up not to “deface” my own body.

Even writing on my hand to remember

a telephone number was frowned upon.

Last October in North Carolina, tattoo artist Odessa Clay inked her 11-year-old daughter with, admittedly, a tiny heart.

She was duly arrested for abuse. There are many other similar examples but the common denominator is that all the “guilty” parents believed that they could basically do anything they wanted with their own child, which is very much not the case.

The global legal age to get a tattoo hovers between 16 and 18 years old, but I can see a rapidly approaching big issue on the horizon for many of us.

Already my daughters have sported those ingenious temporary ones, which I like precisely because they are exactly that.

Even the henna tattoos that they find at the

market take ages to fade, but at least they do disappear.

The problem for me is not the fact that my daughter suddenly has a tattoo of a peace sign or a Union Jack splashed across her shoulder, it’s the very permanence of it.

If a woman puts on lipstick, she can change her shade three thousand times a day to match the occasion, and I couldn’t care less.

We can even let pierced ears heal again if we so desire, but a tattoo is permanent and to remove it is both expensive and painful.

Admittedly, there are many with tattoos who absolutely love them until the day they die, but there are a great many who regret having been inked the minute that ink is dry. Hopefully my daughters won’t regret the same thing.

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

March 2013

7

pregnancy news

birth partners

o

ne of the standard questions fired at all pregnant women is “who is your gynae?” but your gynaecologist, or obstetrician is not the only person you can consult, especially if you are hoping for a natural birth. Dr Douglas Dumbrill, a Cape Town-based gynaecologist, says while your first option is to choose a gynaecologist, you can also see an independent midwife in private practice. Midwives are trained in the management of low-risk pregnancies and normal births, although they can be consulted in other cases if there is also a doctor to provide specialist care.

different approaches When it comes to antenatal care, both a midwife and a gynaecologist will see you at regular intervals during your pregnancy to assess certain health indicators. However, a gynaecologist will usually offer a scan with every visit, while a midwife will refer you to a medical specialist.

An antenatal appointment with a midwife tends to be “longer, warmer and friendlier”, says Sister Tamzin Ingram, nursing services manager at Genesis Clinic, an active birthing clinic in Joburg. “They will talk about your feelings, build a relationship with you and talk about the life of the pregnant mother.”

There is a difference in post-birth care too. A midwife will usually visit the mother two to three times over a 10-day

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March 2013

Know who to turn to when it comes to choosing a caregiver for your pregnancy and the delivery of your baby. By FRANÇOISE GALLET

period to attend to issues such as breast-feeding, cord care, jaundice and to check that the baby has regained its birth weight. Those who birth with a gynaecologist usually go home on day three and thereafter have to visit a wellbaby clinic.

But probably the most marked difference is the freedom of choice midwives offer with respect to the venue for labour.

They generally will support a low-risk client’s decision to birth wherever she feels most safe and comfortable – be that in hospital, in an active birthing unit or at home.

Not all gynaecologists support natural birth to the same degree. However, even for some low-risk expectant mothers, the very appeal of a gynaecologist is that they specialise in pathology. “There is a perception that maybe we are safer,” says Dumbrill. “It’s a very personal choice.”

advantages of a midwife Consider an independent midwife if one-on-one support during and after labour is important to you. Dumbrill says you will get to know your midwife really well, whereas your gynaecologist may be supported by a team of general hospital staff, who won’t be familiar to you at all.

Cape Town mother Helen Bond opted to see a midwife for both her pregnancies. Her choice was fuelled, in part, by a desire to have “one person, one face”, who would be with her throughout her labour.

do you need a doula?

Whether you opt for a midwife or gynaecologist, it is worth considering the benefits of a doula, especially for those who are anxious about labour. Trained in non-medical labour support, the doula’s role is something akin to that of an “expert” mother or girlfriend; the person who encourages and reassures. They’ll tend to your partner too, with the aim of making your labour more comfortable. Post-birth they can help you latch your baby or offer advice, says Lana Peterson of Cape Town, who has been a doula for almost 10 years.

help in finding a midwife or doula Birthing in Awareness has contact information for midwives and doulas nationally. Visit birthing.co.za Birthworks has a national list of midwives and doulas. Visit birthworks.co.za Doulas of Southern Africa offers a list of doulas in your area. Visit doula.org.za or email info@doula. org.za if you can’t find one listed near to you.

Genesis Clinic offers a list of private midwives in Joburg. Visit genesisclinic.co.za The Independent Midwives Professional Association of Cape Town offers information about midwives in the Western Cape. Visit capemidwives.co.za

magazine cape town

best for baby

a pain in the gums Teething troubles afflict most young babies, but there are ways to alleviate their discomfort. By ANÉL LEWIS

PHOTOGRAPH: CJ Photography

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our baby has a fever, diarrhoea and won’t settle.

Are those new teeth really to blame? It’s doubtful, say paediatric dentists and doctors, as the emergence of the baby teeth, known as teething, is a “normal” physiological process that should not require aggressive medical treatment.

Dr Candice Schwartz, a Gauteng-based paediatric dentist, says babies are protected by their own natural immunity for the first six months, after which the sudden drop of protective antibodies makes them susceptible to infection and they may develop symptoms such as high temperatures and diarrhoea. It is “coincidence” that the first teeth often appear at this age and these common ailments are “not related to teething at all”. She adds, “The only signs that should be associated with teething are restlessness, increased salivation and fist or hand chewing”. However, she advises parents to look out for vomiting, a fever of more than 38°C and listlessness, which could signal a more serious problem unrelated to teething. Joburg dentist Dr Sameera Yusufmia says these may be caused by infections of the ear or respiratory tract, and should be referred to a doctor.

magazine cape town

expected time of arrival

pain relief

The first pearly white should push through your baby’s gums at about six months, but there is much variation with teething and eruption patterns and many exceptions to the rule, says Schwartz. Some babies are born with a neonatal tooth, which is lost soon after birth, while other babies will start teething from three months. “A good rule of thumb is that for every six months, about four teeth will erupt.” So your 12 month old should have about eight teeth. Yusufmia says you only need to be concerned if there is no sign of teeth by 18 months. Late teething may be due to genetic, nutritional or medical factors. You can expect your child to have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the age of three.

Although there is no evidence that teething remedies really work, parents can use a combination of treatments, from medical to alternative, to alleviate their baby’s discomfort. Yusufmia recommends wiping your baby’s face frequently to remove drool and prevent a rash, while large chunks of cold vegetables or fruit will be soothing for him to chew on. You can also rub the gums with your (clean) fingers or moist cottonwool.

Pain medication can be used, but “only with your dentist’s advice”.

Schwartz is a firm believer in amber beads to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. She says the necklaces should be worn around your baby’s ankle in a sock at night to avoid choking or be removed completely when the baby is asleep. Homeopathic remedies, natural rubber teething rings or a natural rubber finger brush may also help.

Schwartz says to avoid giving teething biscuits or rusks that are high in sugar. Don’t leave sugary drinks such as sweetened tea in your child’s bottle. While many parents swear by topical teething gels, Schwartz says most of it gets swallowed without having much effect. Despite the plethora of teething remedies to choose from, Schwartz adds, “Teething is a time when your child needs, above all else, love and support.”

To download a teething chart, go to childmag. co.za/content/pain-gums

in the dentist’s chair Schwartz urges parents to take their babies for their first checkup by the age of one. “Prevention is key and I see too many parents visiting me when their children are (older) and the damage has already been done.” Cleaning the mouth and gums should start from birth, she says.

Yusufmia recommends using a soft, damp piece of cotton wool or gauze to clean your baby’s mouth. You can use a baby toothbrush when the first tooth appears.

March 2013

11

dealing with difference

what’s

that word?

Muddling the names of things could be a sign

of a learning disability called dysnomia, says GLYNIS HORNING.

p

ensioner Doug Vermeulen struggled at school and repeated Grade 12 twice, yet he knew he was bright.

“Chatting with varsity students and adults, I always more than held my own and often contributed fresh perspectives, so I knew I wasn’t intellectually challenged.” His problem was that he battled when he wanted to recall a name or a piece of information. “It’s as though the hook I use to retrieve things from my memory has been straightened. It goes in, and there is information there to retrieve, but the hook can get nothing out.”

As a young adult, his own research of his difficulties led him to conclude that he had dyslexia. “When I write or type I repeat words, my tongue gets tangled when I speak, and sometimes strange words come out, to the amusement of family and friends.

It’s as if my speech mechanisms can’t keep up with the speed at which my brain operates.” Doug loved doing research and

dyslexia, “90 percent” of the problem was a separate, little-known condition called dysnomia. “If the information had just been available earlier, and my parents and I had been able to take (appropriate) steps, my life could have been different.”

more about dysnomia Dysnomia is sometimes known as “anomic aphasia”, “naming-speed deficit” or “semantic dyslexia”, but while it is a learning disability like dyslexia, it is not a form of dyslexia, says Gauteng educational psychologist Melanie Hartgill. “Dyslexia is a language processing disorder that can hinder reading, writing, spelling, and sometimes even speaking, while dysnomia is linked to neurological and speech factors and the person cannot remember words correctly. The difficulty with word retrieval affects written output, as can dyslexia for some people.”

dreamed of a career in academia, but after studying “every form of memory aid system available at the time” with little progress, he settled for jobs in sales. Then when Doug was 36, a remedial teacher friend told him about the “VAKT multisensory teaching method of recall”, using visual, auditory, kinaesthetic and tactile means to remember words. “I responded best to visual stimulus and developed my own form of hieroglyphics; drawing stick figures or simple scenes to remind me of a name or a bit of information.”

This was so successful that when a friend persuaded him to enter Bible College in his fifties, he not only coped with the studies, he averaged ninety percent on his exams.

But it’s only since he retired in Durban two years ago at the age of 74 that Doug has discovered that, while he had a degree of

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March 2013

Learning disorders such as dysnomia appear to be on the rise, probably because parents are becoming more aware of them, and because medical advances today are helping more at-risk babies survive, says Durban educational psychologist Shireen Mohamed. “We also rely so much on visual media that children are developing fewer language and speech skills.”

The actual cause of dysnomia remains unclear. Current thinking is that it has a genetic element in some cases, and immature neuron development or brain injury in others. “There’s no history of it in my family, but I had a forceps delivery and believe an injury from that brought on my problem,” says Doug. Birth trauma causing lack of oxygen to the brain has been linked to learning difficulties, confirms Mohamed.

But in some cases dysnomia can occur magazine cape town

ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

My tongue gets tangled when I speak, and sometimes strange words come out, to the amusement of family and friends.

later in life as a result of a tumour or lesion in the language area of the brain, the left hemisphere, or a stroke.

signs to look for The main indication is a difficulty recalling names or words, which is shown as hesitation or strained speaking. Sufferers often use associated or similar-sounding words even when these make no sense, such as “churn” for “burn” or “gutter” for “butter”. Some also battle to use numbers and do simple calculations. They can have difficulty grasping concepts and principles, and may take longer to complete tests because of their problems with recalling information, says Mohamed. “But generally children with learning difficulties have average to above average intelligence.”

If your child shows any of the signs, it’s vital to have them checked out immediately by a multidisciplinary team that can include an educational psychologist, a remedial and speech and language therapist, and a neuro-developmental paediatrician, and to have their hearing tested to rule out hearing difficulties. Ignoring signs can compromise not only their academic future and careers, but their emotional health, as communication problems can lead to withdrawal, frustration and clinical depression, which Doug experienced “at certain very traumatic times in my life”.

Diagnosis can be tricky as the symptoms are not always clear, and it typically mimics normal language development as young children often use incorrect words, says Hartgill. “It becomes more evident in senior primary when it begins to affect their ability to function in academic and social environments.” Dysnomia can also overlap with other learning disorders such as dyslexia, or with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which presents with similar word retrieval and naming difficulties, says Mohamed. It’s usually done with a psycho-neurological assessment and speech and language assessment that highlights areas of the brain affected and the associated deficit.

treatment Treatment depends on the extent of the dysnomia. If it’s caused by a tumour

or lesion, surgery may help, along with speech therapy. But where the cause is genetic or due to a head injury, treatment mostly deals with finding ways to remediate the problem or work around it. “The focus is on word-retrieval strategies such as picture identification and categorization, says Mohamed. “Special attention is given to reading skills when reading disability is involved.”

Sufferers learn to stay calm, speak slowly, and use props to get a message across, or to draw pictures. Speech therapy should be started as early as possible, and may include VAKT. “If I’d started using my hieroglyphics at school, I may have retired as a professor,” rues Doug. Even starting as late as he did, he has been able to write 16 books in the past three years, mostly on Christian ministry and governance.

New treatment options such as Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT) are being explored. This is based on the theory that while it’s difficult for dysnomia sufferers to speak words or phrases, as it’s a left-brain activity, they can often sing or say them using different pitches and rhythms, as musicality is a right-brain activity. “Studies need to be made of the individual child to find out what particular intervention would work best,” says Doug. “I just wish I’d had that option.”

other “dys-” types of learning difficulties Dysgraphia: difficulty writing – suspect this if your child’s writing is illegible or they struggle to draw Dyscalculia: difficulty doing certain maths, not counting accurately, reversing numbers Dyspraxia: difficulty with motor skills – clumsiness and difficulty with tasks like writing or tying shoelaces Dysarthria: difficulty speaking – a loss of control of facial muscles so speech is slow or slurred Dysphagia: difficulty swallowing – there’s risk of swallowing food or drink into the lungs which can cause pneumonia

word for word Durban speech and language therapist Ingrid Robertson advises: • Praise every effort at speech.

• Try to figure out the meaning of the words they make up.

• Speak slowly and distinctly.

• Use common words and simple sentences, but don’t talk down to them.

• Ask questions they can answer with a “yes” or “no”.

• Allow time for a reply; don’t second-guess or hurry them.

• Give phonetic cues, where you sound the first part of the word, if they get stuck.

• Get them to describe what they want to recall.

• Don’t speak for them or speak as if they aren’t there.

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March 2013

13

parenting

i can do it Children are happier, and often more confident, when they can do things for

hen I was 10, my family went to live in Hawaii for six months. More than anything else, I clearly remember walking to school by myself every morning. In South Africa, I was shuttled to and from school in lift clubs, but somehow I managed to convince my mother that in Hawaii all the local children walked to school. It helped that the school wasn’t far away; just over the road and then across two fields.

Many years later my mother told me that she would watch my progress from the balcony of our flat. First there was the heart-stopping moment when I was totally out of her sight and then, reassuringly, she would see me crossing the fields, my

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red dress growing smaller as the distance between us increased. Those moments of freedom and heady independence, of home behind and the world in front, are still with me today.

Clearly, my mother had to put aside her own anxiety for me to experience greater independence. This is not always easy to do, particularly for those parents who, in the words of Dr Robyn Silverman, a leading American child and adolescent development specialist, “hover over their children and swoop in before or at the slightest hint of discomfort, challenge or threat of failure”. Silverman puts forward the premise that it is “developmentally appropriate for children to become more

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PHOTOGRAPHs: shutterSTOCK.COM

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themselves, says LISA LAZARUS.

and more independent, self-reliant and responsible as they age”.

in training Deanne Plunkett, a Joburg-based life coach, states three advantages of greater self-reliance. “A self-reliant child is an empowered child,” she says. Such a child is responsible both for her own actions and the consequences of those actions, and it is through these consequences – even if they are sometimes negative – that a child learns how to navigate through the world. Secondly, self-reliance teaches selfconfidence: the more frequently your child makes their own decisions and determines their own course of action, the easier such

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I think children are curious and want to do things for themselves; it’s just a matter of making sure they can access what they need in order to explore the world relatively safely. behaviour becomes in the future. Lastly, as a parent, you are indicating by your actions that you trust your child by allowing him to perform tasks on his own. A child who feels trusted will be more open with a parent, which is especially important during the teenage years.

Associate Professor Rona Newmark, who works at Stellenbosch University and

as an educational psychologist in private practice, adds that, “Children often have a natural desire to be self-reliant. If this is fostered from a young age, it emerges in a healthy manner.”

Even though a growing sense of self-reliance often emerges naturally, some children might be reluctant to try something new, according

to Tamarin Epstein, an educational psychologist from a family therapy centre in Joburg. There are reasons for this. “Children might not trust their own ability,” says Epstein, “or they could believe that mastering the tasks will result in less parental attention.

Some children’s temperaments are not as adaptable, or they have emotional difficulties, which makes them feel insecure and needy.”

Epstein suggests that you try and encourage your child to do something independently, even if you initially have to help. Use praise for any success, and don’t be afraid to offer a small reward or positive reinforcement.

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parenting

Although positive reinforcement is ideal, Margie Stead* uses a system of taking away rewards to encourage this kind of behaviour. She is mother to two children, a 13-year-old girl with ADHD and an eight-year-old boy who has autism. “Because I don’t have a nanny, Samantha has to go home after school by herself. She fixes her own lunch and then does her homework. We speak a couple of times during the afternoon, but Sam understands that if her homework is not completed, she will lose some of her perks, like pocket money. She needs to learn that for every action there is a reaction.”

grin and bear it Epstein explains that some parents are afraid to see their child struggle. By jumping in and always performing a particular task for your child, you might be reinforcing dependency. Also, parents need to learn to accept messiness, especially at first, which is not always easy.

Joburg-based mom Frances Correia, who has three children, aged five, three and 20 months, says: “I don’t think that I’d thought consciously about putting anything in place to make them more self-reliant. However, I realise that there are many things they do for themselves naturally, and often this is facilitated by how I arrange our lives and our home.

For example, all my children know how to find food in the house. We have a low vegetable rack that always has fruit in it and they understand that they are free to eat anything from there at any time.”

Of her parenting approach, Frances says: “It helps that I don’t mind walking into a mess or finding apples with two bites put back into the fruit rack. I think children are curious and want to do things for themselves; it’s just a matter of making sure they can access what they need in order to explore the world relatively safely.”

show them how Newmark points out that the parent’s own degree of self-reliance and independence is critically important when it comes to teaching these competencies. “One must ensure,” she says, “that one’s individual issues of dependency or co-dependency are not projected onto the child.” Plunkett adds that certain parental management styles can inhibit a child’s ability to develop self-reliance, so watch out if you are: • The parent who wants something done in a specific way, which could be as simple as packing toys away, helping prepare a meal, or having a bath. The child cannot do it properly, so the parent prefers to take over and do the task.

• The parent who doesn’t have the patience to wait for the child to complete the task herself.

• The parent who adopts the mistaken belief that everything should be done for the child. Perhaps the parent “had it tough growing up”, and had to do a lot for herself, and so she doesn’t want her child to have to go through a similar difficult time. *Name changed to protect confidentiality

what should my child be able to do?

Educational psychologist Tamarin Epstein cautions that the tasks and ages below are a general guideline only. Also, adequate parental training, guidance and encouragement must be provided for children to achieve these skills. Remember that children born prematurely may take a little longer than their peers to achieve milestones.

• a pply sunscreen to his face and body; and • say his own name, surname, address and say and remember an emergency telephone number.

A three year old can • stay dry all day (wearing nappies only at night).

An eight year old can • make his own lunch (if sharp knives, food processors and/or ovens are not required).

A four year old can • stay dry at night as well; • dress and feed himself; and • wash his own hands.

A five year old can • wipe his own bottom; • w ash his face, brush his teeth and hair; • use a telephone and cellphone (can answer and talk on the phone, and dial an emergency number);

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A six year old can • wash his own body and hair in the bath or shower.

A nine year old can • pack and unpack a school bag.

A 10 year old can • organise his own playdates (as long as he understands that arrangements must be agreed upon by both sets of parents, in advance); and; • do homework independently and only ask for guidance and support when needed.

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techniques that can help children become more self-reliant, as advised by Dr Robyn Silverman 1. Make their own decisions Silverman says that even a young child is capable of making an age-appropriate decision, such as what colour shirt to wear. Older children should obviously be allowed to make more important decisions, such as which activities they want to do. “While it’s tempting to make these kinds of decisions for your older children, they need to learn from their own mistakes and stand on their own two feet – after all, their decisions are often correct,” says Silverman.

2. Do tasks on their own Silverman explains that if a child expresses a keenness to try a task herself, and if it’s safe to do so, then you should allow it. Expect it not to be done as well as you would have done it, but still praise the attempt and allow your child to try again next time.

3. Show self-reliance in action Children model their behaviour on what the adults around them do, so let them see and hear you carrying out tasks. Whether you’re planning supper or changing a light bulb, tell your child what you’re doing.

4. Be your child’s coach If your child asks you how to do something, it might be more useful to ask a question in return than to provide an answer. For example: “How would you do it? What would happen if you did X instead?”

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5. Offer a good support system Try to draw a distinction between when children really need your help, and when they want to be encouraged from the sidelines. “When children know they can count on you when they’re really in need, they’ll feel more secure about taking healthy risks and making mistakes.”

6. Parcel out responsibilities Give your child age-appropriate chores and, if necessary, break the task down into easier chunks.

7. Promote healthy risk-taking Try and make your child understand that it’s okay to make mistakes, and it’s not the “end of the world” if things don’t work out as planned. As parents, it’s difficult to watch our children fail, and our immediate response is to rush in and help, so that we shield them from frustration, disappointment or failure. However, children, like adults, need to try and persevere in the face of difficulty.

At the heart of Silverman’s approach is the idea that “young people are assets to be developed rather than deficits to be managed”. Rather than trying to “fix” children and adolescents, she would like to see strategies for motivating children to find their strengths, because this is how children will ultimately reach their potential.

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parenting

when your domestic helper’s role changes If you’re looking for someone to care for your child, your domestic helper may be the best

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outh Africans are used to having domestic help at a price that we can afford. In my growing years during the ’80s and ’90s, my family did it the way most families did it back then. A woman named Ellen played this all-encompassing role in our family life for many years. She lived in and looked after us, which included walking us home from school every day, and she cleaned. And, of course, there was no formal contract for all these responsibilities.

Although much has changed when it comes to employment contracts today, many families still don’t regard domestic help as part of the formal workforce.

It’s important, however, to set up a proper contract, including your employee’s job description and salary, to ensure that they are treated fairly and that you are clear about your requirements. This is especially true when you want your domestic helper to assume the extra responsibility of looking after your child.

Make sure you review her job specifications and salary accordingly, after you have carefully considered her suitability as a childminder.

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the screening process Karin Thomsen, cofounder of an agency specialising in the training and placement of nannies, says, “Qualities to look for are a positive attitude, honesty, reliability, initiative and a willingness to communicate and do tasks the mother’s way. Skills can always be taught.”

There is no such thing as the perfect nanny. A pleasant personality and experience are more important than many formal qualifications. Being a mother herself is an added advantage as it will make her more intuitive when it comes to, for example, understanding your baby’s different cries.

It’s important to be conscious of your family’s needs and then see if your domestic worker meets those. Melody Hendriks, who does childcare training and recruitment, has found, for instance, that moms may feel left out if the nanny becomes too principal in the home. “A mom who is away at work all day should consider a very experienced nanny whereas a mom who is also at home or works from home could go for a less experienced nanny.” Also, says Karin, remain reasonable. If

she looks after your child as well as cleans the house, her first priority will be with your child.

Ask yourself these questions when considering changing your domestic helper’s role: 1 Am I comfortable talking to her?

2 Does she have a passion for children, and is she physically capable of looking after a child or children?

3 Is she calm and relaxed?

4 Has she shown common sense in her decision-making?

5 Is she reliable and punctual?

6 Does she call when she is running late, and does she apologise if she arrives late?

7 Has she let me know if she has broken something in the house while cleaning?

8 Does she follow my verbal or written instructions and respond with a good attitude?

9 Does she ask for help and clarity when she needs it, and express her dissatisfaction when she is unhappy?

10 Is she presentable and does she have a sense of orderliness that is compatible with mine?

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PHOTOGRAPHS and ILLUSTRATIONS: shutterstock.com

person for the job, says LUCILLE KEMP.

how best to make it work “On a practical level, you want to ensure your home is running smoothly and that it is evident that your child is happy, safe, loved and stimulated. On an emotional level, you want to have confidence in and trust your nanny,” says Karin. These tips will ensure that you and your nanny are satisfied: • Provide your nanny with a daily schedule for your child and a notebook where she can record the day’s routine.

• As your domestic helper will now care for your child, her levels of responsibility and accountability

are greater, so make sure you pay her accordingly, including overtime if necessary.

• Send your nanny on childcare training, especially for first aid.

• Provide a prioritised cleaning list so that she can manage her time effectively.

• Simple appreciation goes a long way so Karin suggests you make time, at least once a week, to connect with your employee.

• Be grateful for your child and nanny’s relationship.

Don’t take it personally if your child seems to choose their nanny over you; see it as a sign that your child is

recommended hours and wages Melody says, “We have labour laws defining minimum salaries but in reality those salaries are not going to find you the top candidate.” A salary of between R2 500 and R4 000 per month is recommended, depending on travel and hours worked. Working hours are as follows: for a five-day week or less – nine hours a day; more than five days a week – eight hours a day and 45 is the maximum number of hours that can be worked in a week. The maximum working hours in any day, including overtime, is 12 hours and the maximum amount of overtime that can be worked per week is 15 hours.

a guideline of roles and recommended wages domestic nanny

nanny/childminder

nanny/au pair (naupair)

description

A person whose responsibilities include caring for young children and doing light cleaning in the home

A person whose responsibilities only include caring for young children and perhaps doing some laundry and ironing for the children

A well-spoken, well-educated person whose responsibilities only include caring for young children and doing light housework

education

Minimal

Minimal

Tertiary

monthly salary

R3 000–R3 500

R3 500–R4 000

From R4 000

driving

No

No

Yes, but she may not have her own car

housework

Yes, but generally light work as she has to balance childcare and housework

Yes, but housework associated with the child, such as sorting toys, laundry and ironing

Light housework associated with the child

cooking

Yes or no

Yes, to cook the child’s food

Yes, to cook the child’s food

Courtesy of Super Nannies

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happy. Joburg-based mom Riley is moving her sevenyear-old son to a private aftercare school facility. He has been with his nanny Gracie after school every day since he was six months old. “For Gracie, I have taken away her ‘other child’ and as it’s not a simple process, I have had to be sensitive and gentle in my approach.”

It’s good to know that your child can be this loved by someone other than you.

• Check transport routes and times before confirming the position. Your nanny needs to be happy with her working hours and confident that she can still look after her own family’s needs.

what makes her good for the job?

In clinical psychologist Jeanine Beukes’s academic paper on the pivotal role the African nanny plays in the South African home, she notes that the innate personality of the African woman makes for a great caregiver. Because they believe that it takes a village to raise a child, they will love and nurture your child as their own. Karin says that irrespective of a nanny’s cultural background, her success as a caregiver will depend on her interaction with you and your child. “I have had nannies from two very different backgrounds look after my children and both have been equally amazing with them. It is very much about personal preference.”

For agencies that can train your domestic helper to become a nanny, visit childmag.co.za/ resources/home-help

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education

smart from the start The pressure to find the right school for your child starts as early as preschool.

KIM MAXWELL suggests 10 questions to

s the director of Flying Children, a Gauteng nongovernmental organisation that trains preschool teachers, Lindy Harris, herself a preschool teacher, believes these early years should be a time of learning. “Neurologists tell us that ignoring or preventing brain development at this time can cause parts of the brain to shut down forever. I believe many children are failing maths from Grades 3 or 4 because they haven’t done educational games, completed puzzles and played with water, sand and blocks as preschoolers,” she says. So, given that some of the most important development happens at this stage, consider the following when choosing a preschool.

where do I start?

For new parents the boggling array of terms can be confusing. A playgroup, play centre or play school generally refers to a small, mornings-only group for children between the ages of two and three, but these may sometimes include children up to the age of five. A preschool or nursery school usually offers bigger morning-only classes for three to five year olds. At a daycare or crèche, children from the age of two usually have structured mornings, and free play or additional extramural activities during afternoons.

The term preprimary applies to Grade R, also known as Grade 0, a compulsory preparation year for children turning six before primary school. Do your research and visit schools in your area. Speak to friends about their preferences and chat to parents of children already placed in schools about their experiences. You may also want to prioritise schools that are considered feeder facilities for your preferred primary school.

is there a waiting list?

The bad news for new parents is that most urban schools advise putting your child on a preschool list shortly after they are born to ensure that when they turn two or three, they will have

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a place. Cape Town parent Julie Buissinne enrolled her two daughters at a popular play centre when they were born to guarantee their spots, and never regretted it. The nurturing environment, security and outdoor area were deciding factors for her.

Stepping Stones Montessori Preschool principal Jenni Petersen advises parents to visit various schools during operating hours. Red flags to alert you against a school include: if the children appear to be unhappy, if they spend most of the visit sitting still or if the space is dirty.

at what age should my toddler go to preschool?

“Generally I’d advise a smaller morning playgroup for children aged two to three years old, and let children start bigger nursery school classes from the age of three to five,” says nurse and midwife Ann Richardson, who is also author of Toddler Sense (Metz Press). This is when children start learning how to socialise in bigger groups, to wait their turn, and to sit quietly in a group. But Richardson cautions that individual situations should be considered. For instance, a younger child with a quiet caregiver whose home environment doesn’t include many other children may benefit from a daycare setting. As a rule, let your child be on the older rather than the younger side. Harris says, “It’s so important for children to have some preschool years experience. But, on the other hand, from Grade 0 or Grade R you’re looking at 13 years of schooling, so there is no hurry.”

is the school registered?

All facilities that offer early childhood development must be registered with the Department of Social Development. This applies to playgroups in private homes, as well as crèches and preschools, where there are more than six children. You can check whether your child’s facility is registered at your local social development office, as well as your local municipal office, library or clinic. magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

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help you make an informed decision.

does the school provide a safe, hygienic and educational environment for your child?

All registered daycare facilities must comply with the guidelines set out by the Department of Social Development (see info.gov.za/otherdocs/2006/childhooddev. pdf), or they risk being shut down. These include separate areas for changing and feeding children, adequate toilet and handwashing facilities, sufficient space for children to play and controlled access to the facility. Also ask if there is a well-stocked first aid kit, a sickroom and whether they insist that sick children remain at home?

Joburg mother Georgina Crouth says her toddler’s frequent infections dropped dramatically after they changed crèches midway through the year.

consider your child’s specific needs.

What is the average size of the classes and their teacher to learner ratio?

Do you agree with the way the teachers discipline children? What is the school’s philosophy and does it fit in with your family values? Also find out whether the school accommodates a child with an allergy or special needs.

are the teachers qualified?

Parents are within their rights to check qualifications. Teachers should be qualified in preschool or early childhood development and it’s crucial that the qualification specifies the level and child’s age for which they are trained.

Note that certificates and diplomas vary depending on the institution they studied at. Also enquire about their other skills, such as first aid training.

how much should I be paying?

Whether you choose an all-day crèche, a morning-only playgroup or a preschool where you may also be paying a full-time nanny, the fees do add up. magazine cape town

Some schools require hefty deposits when submitting applications. Fees vary, but the 2013 fees for two year olds attending a five-morning week at sought-after schools surveyed ranged from R19 400 to R30 000 a year. Schools often offer better rates if fees are paid upfront annually, or if you pay per term instead of monthly. If you have more than one child, ask about reduced rates for siblings.

does the preschool include Grade R? Many parents favour preschools where classes follow on to accommodate a child between the ages of five and six. This relieves the pressure of having to find a Grade R spot at a sought-after school. Traditional education preschools offer a government curriculum from the age of three. If you’re considering an independent preschool with, for example, a Waldorf or Montessori approach, ask how they satisfy traditional Grade R educational requirements. A Montessori system regards ages three to six as a continuous cycle, so children are introduced to aspects of Grade R requirements at an earlier age, instead of in a separate year.

don’t forget about the importance of play.

Lindy says parents have a tendency to look for schools that develop children to the nth degree and fill their lives with activities. “But the more I research, the more I realise children need to play freely as often as possible, to find out who they are, and not by filling every minute with things to do,” she says.

Parents should search for schools with an emphasis on developing creativity and imagination. Look for an indoor fantasy or pretend area, and an outdoor play space with sandpits, jungle gyms, vegetable gardens and trees to climb. There should be some new learning happening every week, but in a supportive, nurturing and relaxed environment.

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21

fyi

surf with savvy With a wealth of information just a mouse click away, it’s important that you and your children know how to search

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even-year-old Emily shrieks excitedly, “Mommy, we have to do a project on animals and I want to do mine on giraffes.” I smile as I sit down at the computer. “What should we look up first?” I say, typing in the address for Google. In an age when information is so readily available, it’s almost a given that the starting point for any project will be Google. It’s so easy. Type in what you want and voila – it provides a wealth of information. While finding the facts is easy, there are some challenges.

teamwork Make sure your child understands that taking someone else’s work, be it text, images or ideas, is wrong and is the

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same as stealing a slab of chocolate or a loaf of bread. As with most aspects of a child’s educational development, instilling a sense of fairness and an understanding of the concept of plagiarism, as well as the ability to effectively use the tools available for online research, is jointly the responsibility of the school and the parents.

At Cannons Creek Independent Primary School in Cape Town, for example, internet research is integrated into the curriculum from as early as Grade 2 and the teachers engage parents in the process from the beginning. The complexity of requirements increases with each grade. Principal Carol Booth explains that in Grade 2 the instructions for a project are sent to parents in a letter.

“They help the pupils find the information,” she says.

In Grades 3, 4 and 5, the teacher provides the names of websites to use; this list is also given to the parents.

By Grade 6, the teacher will suggest websites that are appropriate for them to use. They need to record these in their bibliography. The approach in Grade 7 is to first discuss the topic in class. The teacher suggests various websites or other sources and the learners must reference them as their sources in a bibliography. “Computer lessons cover finding information by using various search engines and how to discard or ignore unwanted information and the procedure when referencing,” says Booth.

magazine cape town

photograph: shutterstock.com

responsibly. By BIANCA WRIGHT

a helping hand Talk to your child about the requirements of the project, read the instructions from the teacher and help them brainstorm the types of information needed. A wildlife project in Grade 1 might require simple information about feeding and breeding habits of the selected animal, while a biology project in Grade 8 would require a more in-depth exploration of the topic.

Often the first search result is information from Wikipedia.

Be careful about using Wikipedia for school projects as it is a collaborative project among many people, where anyone can create or edit an entry and quite often the information is wrong. Rather opt for reputable sources of information.

Explain to your child that they need to assess the credibility of a source if they want to use it. For example,

• Sites such as kiddyhouse.com and kids.yahoo.com provide a safe resource for teachers, parents and children on a variety of topics.

• A safe search engine for children is askkids.com • Local sites that partner with schools, such as mycyberwall.ltc.co.za, are also a good resource. My Cyberwall, a first in Africa, offers comprehensive curriculum-aligned resources for Grades 4 to 6 for maths, English, natural science and history, as well as games and other activities. A subscription is required.

who said it?

Once your child has collected the information it must be rewritten in their own words and attributed. There are many

It is the joint responsibility of the school and the parents to instil the ability to effectively use the tools available for online research. a website produced by the National Research Foundation would be more credible than a blog entry on thermonuclear physics by a person with no scientific background.

where to go There are thousands of reputable sites aimed directly at children.

• Interested in learning more about chemistry? Try chem4kids.com • Hoping to impress with your in-depth knowledge of mathematics? Wolfram MathWorld, at mathworld. wolfram.com, provides resources on every aspect of the subject.

• For solid local history resources, visit sahistory.org.za

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different ways to reference information. Most commonly the surname and year of publication are put in round brackets after the information. If a direct quote is used, then the information must be in inverted commas. A bibliography or reference list at the end of the project should include the author’s name, date of publication, the title of the text cited, the journal or magazine it was published in (if applicable) and the page numbers. If it is an online source, include the URL as well.

Getting your child into the habit of using the internet effectively, responsibly and fairly early on will benefit them throughout their education. The internet is a goldmine of information, but finding facts that are credible and reliable, and using them correctly, is a skill that must be learnt.

points on plagiarism Plagiarism can be a difficult concept for children, and even parents, to understand. While copying and pasting is certainly a form of plagiarism it isn’t the only one. Indeed, any use of an idea, image, text or other intellectual property without proper attribution is considered plagiarism. The consequences of plagiarism and the related concept of copyright infringement are severe. Many educators, journalists and authors have lost their jobs and worse, their credibility, as a result of plagiarism.

Similarly, children who plagiarise must face the consequences of their actions. Most schools have disciplinary codes that spell out the punishment for acts of plagiarism. Epworth Independent School for Girls in Pietermaritzburg publishes a comprehensive policy on plagiarism and lists different levels of punishment depending on the severity of the offence. A first-time offender who uses ideas without attribution, for example, would lose 10 to 20 percent of marks relative to the severity of the plagiarism as well as having to go to detention to rewrite a task.

On the other hand, a serial offender who copies an entire assignment word for word faces suspension.

Parents should familiarise themselves with the concepts of plagiarism and copyright infringement before helping with a project. A great resource is Wits University’s LibGuide on Plagiarism, Citation and Referencing Styles lbguides.wits.ac.za/ plagiarism_citation_and_referencing Free plagiarism checkers such as Viper at scanmyessay.com are available online.

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parenting

off the record Being privy to your child’s conversations during the school run may offer

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he greenies are going to have me drawn and quartered but, despite having a handful of fellow schoolmates who could carpool living metres from our door, we choose to lift our boys to and from school every day. Yes, we have considered just how much petrol we are using on this unnecessary lifting. And yes, we have considered the environment and our ever-increasing carbon footprint. But we will not swap those precious 30 minutes a day in the car for anything. I am more than happy to plant a forest as penance.

Since their first days at school, my husband would take the boys in the morning and I would do the afternoon run home. It’s always been “our” time; irrespective of whether a word is spoken or not, and I have always been fascinated by the dynamics in the car. Dylan, now 15, considered it his quiet space. “How was your day, Dylan?” I would ask the then six year old. “Good,” he would say and that would be all he would utter for the entire 15-minute trip back home. He was digesting his day – be it good or bad – and this safe space was where he could do it; on his own, observed by his mother and sometimes irritated by his younger brother. He needed the quiet and solitude of the car. Only later would he share his day. He’s still the same years later.

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March 2013

Alex, now 12, on the other hand, offered an entirely different experience. “How was your day, Alex?” I would ask. “Boring. In break we played soccer and I played goalie and James and Sam and Tom were on my team and Matthew tried to kick three goals and I stopped it three times and James says I am the best goalie at school.

I liked my sandwich today, but I swapped it with Robert’s samosa…” The whole day had been unpacked by the time we arrived home.

Lifting a car full of friends is always an interesting experience, often a health hazard and a great opportunity

to observe a group dynamic. It’s a confined space and you, as the adult driver, are not necessarily considered present, unless of course, you have food to offer.

Needless to say, the conversation is honest; sometimes harsh. It’s easy to establish even in a short trip who’s who in the zoo. The stories flow easily and you may hear more than you sometimes should. I have often caught those uneasy eyes from my sons trying to gauge my response to what’s going on in the back seat.

I’ve rarely had to interject and, more often than not, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be there and be privy to such stimulating conversations of growing boys. I know what TV programmes Simon watches, what James’s older brother has in his cupboard, what Max thinks about Heyneke Meyer’s Springbok team selection, how many books Tim has read this week, why Steven is useless at cricket, how foul Luke’s locker is at school, how Mr P said the “f” word in maths, and who has hair under their arms.

I am privileged, and often also entertained.

That said, I could definitely do without the farting competitions (why is this still such a favourite car game?) and driving them around on rugby training days.

Sometimes, I think we parents who insist on lifting our children deserve danger pay.

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

some important parenting insights, says CHRISTINA CASTLE.

getaway

happy travels The secret to surviving a family road trip is to make the journey as much fun as the destination, says LYNNE O’CONNOR.

PHOTOGRAPHs: shutterSTOCK.COM

i

’ve come to realise that I’m not supposed to travel long distances.

I love the destinations; it’s getting there that’s the problem. And when I have to entertain three children between the ages of five and 13 for several hours, with my husband threatening to drop them off on the side of the N3, it’s even more tiresome.

The trick, as I’ve learnt over the years, is to get an early start. That way the children will hopefully sleep for the first hour or two and I won’t have to entertain them. There’s nothing more pleasing than climbing into the car before sunrise with three sleepy children in the back, including one very grouchy teenager for whom anything earlier than 9am is ungodly, a flask of coffee and some muffins and the radio playing quietly as we begin our journey, waving goodbye to the city.

magazine cape town

The second trick is to travel as though we live in our car. I’ve long stopped being embarrassed about the paraphernalia that emerges as I trip out of the car when we make a petrol stop. The children’s travel survival kit includes toys, gadgets, a portable DVD player, books and snacks, and you can usually find an assortment of these stuffed between the seats and on the floor.

But the best entertainment is the kind that we make up as we go along. The windmill game remains a firm favourite in the O’Connor car. My husband isn’t so fond of it, as every windmill sighting elicits a heart-stopping shriek from the back. Car Bingo is also lots of fun. The aim is for the children to spot a variety of cars that they’ve put onto a list on my eldest son’s cellphone.

We also have sing-alongs to my husband’s collection of ’70s and ’80s CDs. I have no doubt that when my children are older,

they’ll have fond memories of our holidays when they hear a Neil Diamond song.

On a recent trip to Sun City my children, who were clearly bored, decided to see who could keep their arms in the air the longest. The looks that we got from people in passing cars were priceless. The children howled with laughter every time one of them dared to lower a limb. Needless to say, we arrived at our destination with three pairs of very tired arms.

As any parent with more than one child knows, even the most eventful car trips are seldom harmonious and fight-

free. Refrains of “Mom, Ciaran’s stinky toe is touching my arm,” and “Mom, Ava is looking at me” will be heard at some point.

To solve the fighting, we play the quiet game. The child who keeps quiet the longest; without making any huffing, puffing, sighing, giggling or other noises; is the winner and gets to choose the treats that we buy at the next stop.

No, I definitely don’t travel well, but the squeals of excitement at our first glimpse of the sea make the trip worth it. Not to mention that first sighting of the city skyline that signals that we’re home.

March 2013

25

book extract

fabulous food on the move Padkos needn’t be soggy sandwiches and stinky boiled eggs. Use these lunchbox ideas to spice up your next pit stop. By LEANNE KATZENELLENBOGEN

egg cups

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease six muffin tin holes well.

2 Flatten the bread with a rolling pin until it is about half its original thickness.

3 Spread a thin layer of margarine over each slice of bread. The spread side will be facing the egg and not the muffin tin.

4 Mould the slices into the muffin tin and trim the edges.

5 Bake the bread cups for 10 minutes.

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March 2013

6 Remove from the oven, but keep the oven on, and gently crack one egg into each bread cup. Season to taste.

7 Put back into the oven and bake for 18 minutes – this may vary a bit depending on your oven – until the eggs are cooked through.

8 Remove from the oven and shake the tin to see if the eggs are cooked. Set aside to cool for a few minutes.

9 Remove each cup from the muffin tin and cool down completely on a wire rack. hint: These can be made in individual silicone cupcake holders and will make the lunchbox fun and colourful.

nutritional information per egg cup energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

814

9,5

13,9

10,3

55

8

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHs: Denver hendricks

• 6 slices low-GI brown bread • extra-light margarine to coat muffin tin – about 1 teaspoon per cup • a thin spread of extra-light margarine • 6 extra-large eggs • salt and pepper to taste

star pb & j

nutritional information per whole sandwich energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

1 266

9

38,7

11

57

22

• 2 tsp. peanut butter

of bread and cut out the bread stars using a

• 2 tsp. jam

star-shaped cookie cutter.

• 2 slices low-GI honey and oats bread hint: Try different varieties of jam to add 1 First spread the peanut butter and then the jam over one slice of bread.

2 Close the sandwich with the remaining slice

a twist to the good old PB & J. The fat in this sandwich comes from the heart-healthy monounsaturated fats in the peanut butter.

mock sushi • 1 slice low-GI brown bread, with the crusts cut off • a thin spread of extra-light margarine • 1 tbsp. plain, smooth, fat-free cottage cheese • 3 cucumber ribbons (see step 3) • 30g smoked salmon

nutritional information per 3 pieces of sushi energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

775

11

18

6

55

10

magazine cape town

1 Flatten the slice of bread with a rolling pin.

2 First spread a thin layer of margarine and then cottage cheese over the bread.

3 To make the cucumber ribbons, peel a cucumber with a potato peeler to form three thin ribbons.

4 Place a thin layer of cucumber ribbons on top of the cream cheese.

5 Place a thin layer of smoked salmon on top of the cucumber. Make sure that both the cucumber ribbons and the smoked salmon are in one thin layer as this makes it easier to roll up the “sushi”.

6 Roll up the “sushi” and cut into three pieces. Pack into a lunchbox and store in the fridge. hint: Make sure to pack the “sushi” quite tightly to avoid the rolls coming apart.

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27

book extract

nutritional information per patty energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

486

4,7

8,5

6,5

65

6

couscous and cheese patties • 1 cup boiling water • 1 cup couscous • 1 wheel low-fat herb-flavoured feta, crumbled • ½ x 250g tub ricotta cheese • 2 red salad onions, chopped • salt and pepper to taste • 1 egg, beaten • cake flour for dusting • a small amount of olive oil for browning 1 Pour the boiling water over the couscous and let it stand for at least five minutes.

2 Transfer the couscous to a separate bowl and add the feta and ricotta cheese. Mix well with your hands.

Makes 12 patties 3 Add the onions and mix through.

Season to taste.

4 Add the egg to the couscous mixture and mix well.

5 Take tablespoonfuls of the couscous mixture and roll into balls using your hands.

6 Roll each ball in some flour and dust off the excess. Flatten each ball into a small patty with the palms of your hands.

7 Heat a small amount of oil in a nonstick pan and fry the patties for five minutes on each side. The patties should be golden brown in colour. hint: Your children will have a “ball” rolling these couscous patties.

nutritional information per portion energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

279

3,5

8,1

1

42

3

spicy chicknaks • 1 x 400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed • salt, pepper and paprika to taste 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2 Dry the rinsed chickpeas on a paper towel and place on a baking tray lined with baking paper.

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March 2013

Makes 4 x 100g portions 3 Season to taste and bake for 40 minutes.

4 Allow the chickpeas to cool down completely before placing them in a container with a tight-fitting lid. hint: These are a great low-fat and low-GI alternative to crisps or nuts.

magazine cape town

pineapple cheesecake

Makes 6 cheesecakes

• 7 digestive biscuits, crushed into crumbs • 30g bran flakes, blitzed in a food processor • ¼ cup extra-light margarine, melted • 1 x 250g tub fat-free, smooth cottage cheese • 300ml fat-free vanilla yoghurt • 1 x 340ml can evaporated milk (light) • 1 x 8g packet sugar-free pineapple jelly – one that doesn’t need refrigeration to set 1 Mix the biscuit crumbs, bran flakes and margarine.

2 Divide the mixture into six small containers (about ½ cup each)

that can fit easily into a lunchbox and press the crust into the base of the containers.

3 Combine the cottage cheese and

yoghurt in a bowl. Set aside.

4 Heat the evaporated milk in a pan on the stove until it is almost boiling. Remove from the stove and stir in the jelly until it has dissolved.

Set aside to cool a bit – the mixture must still be warm when moving on to the next step.

5 Add the cottage cheese mixture to the warm jelly mixture and mix well.

6 Divide the mixture between the six containers and refrigerate until set.

nutritional information per cheesecake energy

protein

carbohydrate

fat

gi

gl

871

9,6

25,5

6,9

43

11

about the book Dietician Leanne Katzenellenbogen has lifted the lid on boring lunchboxes with her recipe book, Simple, Fabulous Lunchbox

Ideas

(Random

House

Struik). Each recipe includes the meal’s nutritional information, so you can be sure you are offering your family food that is varied and nutritious. She has drawn on her extensive dietary knowledge to produce recipes that are low in fat, have a lower GI and are higher in fibre than conventional lunchbox snacks. This makes them perfect for school lunches, road trips and for busy people on the go. The book is available at all good bookstores.

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29

resource

one for the road Pack the car and spend a few days discovering the beauty of the Cape Country Meander route in the Overberg. By LUCILLE KEMP

30

Botrivier

Expect to see farmlands with rolling hills and gentle valleys covered in orchards and vineyards.

Best in autumn and spring for the atmospheric sunsets and pleasant weather.

Best spot to overnight is Old Mac Daddy, a collection of airstream caravans converted into hotel suites. A children’s playroom is staffed during school holidays. Contact: 021 844 0241, reservations@oldmacdaddy.co.za or visit oldmacdaddy.co.za Breakfast at Peregrine Farm Stall. If you have small children, order a takeaway and spend time in the play garden.

Contact: 021 848 9011 or visit peregrinefarmstall.co.za Lunch at Blossom Restaurant, a real farm kitchen located on Thandi Farm, which offers a hearty South African menu. There is a fenced-in jungle gym and a child-friendly menu. For an allout affair, The Oak Valley Estate’s The Pool Room is great, but note that the pool is not fenced in.

Contact: 021 844 0343 or visit oakvalley.co.za Dine at Brinny Breezes Old Mac Daddy’s resident restaurant offers wood fired oven pizzas and dishes from their small, seasonal menu. During summer they host weekend campfire braais. Contact: 076 578 7700 or visit oldmacdaddy.co.za To get there from Cape Town 68,5km – 40 minutes

Expect to see the Hottentots Holland mountain range with its beautiful fynbos, and olive groves and vineyards growing at its foot.

Best in September and October when you will find green landscapes and a variety of activities on the go.

Best spot to overnight is the Black Eagle Lodge and Villa.

Contact: 028 212 2113 or visit blackeaglelodge.co.za Breakfast at Gabriëlskloof Wine Estate, for everything from a fry-up to poached haddock and eggs. Contact: 028 284 9865 or visit gabrielskloof.co.za Lunch at The Shuntin’ Shed, a quirky, restored locomotive shed with original railway paraphernalia that offers a fun, casual menu.

Contact: 028 284 9443 Dine at Botrivier Hotel’s longstanding Bellows Restaurant.

Contact: 028 284 9640 or visit bothot.co.za To get there from Elgin 22,8km – 14 minutes

March 2013

Tesselaarsdal – a little off the main route…

Caledon Expect to see rolling fields of wheat, canola and barley with sheep and lambs grazing next to the road.

Best in spring with beautiful scenes of green wheat fields waving in the wind, patches of yellow canola pastures among them and fynbos flowers in bloom.

Best spot to overnight is the Arolela Farm, where children can feed the animals and go on night drives to spot a rabbit or two or even an owl on the hunt. Contact: 082 387 2416 or visit arolela.co.za Breakfast at Gabbiano for a coffee and something to eat.

Children love the small balcony outside. Contact: 028 212 3671 Lunch at Dassiesfontein for home-baked bread and traditional dishes. The children can feed the donkeys and enjoy wandering among the free range chickens.

Contact: 028 214 1475 or visit dassies.co.za Dine at The Black Sheep Diner at the Caledon Casino, Hotel and Spa for its hearty, no-frills fare.

Contact: 028 214 5100 or visit thecaledoncasino.co.za To get there from Botrivier 23,8km – 15 minutes

Expect to see wheat, canola and barley fields with cattle, sheep and lambs.

Best in spring as the area is home to wild-flower farms, and a rich variety of fynbos flowers.

Best spot to overnight Glen Oakes offers self-catering accommodation on a working pig farm, a dam for swimming and stretches of farm road for mountain biking. Contact: 028 212 2050 or visit glenoakes.co.za Breakfast at your leisure by packing a hearty picnic, as there are no restaurants.

Lunch at a wine farm in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Visit hermanuswineroute.com. Or stop at Moggs Country Cookhouse.

Contact: 076 314 0671 or visit moggscookhouse.com Dine at Barke Restaurant, a 45-minute drive to Stanford. This popular restaurant is at the Blue Gum Country Estate. Contact: 028 341 0116, barke@bluegum.co.za or visit bluegum.co.za To get there from Caledon 21km – 13 minutes PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

Elgin

magazine cape town

fro

m

Linger longer...

Around 25km from Greyton are the selfcatering Elandskloof Cottages. Enjoy peaceful scenic walks, the river and play area.

8

Attraction Children love the Helderstroom Alpacas Farm, 10km outside Villiersdorp.

Contact: 028 840 0158

Villiersdorp R321

Theewaterskloof Dam

Greyton R43

Ca

pe

Attraction Greyton has an extensive network of cycling paths, some of which have been designed with children in mind.

6

Genadendal To wn

7

R321

N2

1

R406 R406

R406

Elgin

N2

2

Botrivier Attraction Older children can water ski at Mofam River Lodge, while parents enjoy a concert at the Paul Cluver Amphitheatre until 16 March.

R43

5

N2

Riviersonderend

N2 N2

Caledon

N2

3

Attraction The annual Caledon Country Fair is usually in the second weekend of September.

R316

R320

4

Tesselaarsdal

R316

Riviersonderend

Greyton

Genadendal

Villiersdorp

Expect to see the Sonderend Mountains and the signature Overberg landscapes with its wheat, barley and canola fields.

Best in September and October when the fields are in full bloom.

Best spot to overnight is at the Khomeesdrif camp site, a treeshaded, grassed caravan and camping site on the banks of the Riviersonderend River. Contact: 028 261 1995 or visit khomeesdrif. co.za. More towards Swellendam is Jongenskloof Country Retreat, a little hideaway on the banks of a mountain stream. Visit: jongenskloof.com Breakfast at the gardens of the Stormsvlei Farm Stall and Restaurant. Contact: 028 261 1167 or visit stormsvlei.co.za Lunch at Ou Meul Bakery for one of their famous pastries. Contact: 028 261 1568 or visit oumeul.co.za Dine at Tebaldi’s in McGregor for a taste of Tuscany in tranquil gardens. Contact: 023 625 1115 or visit temenos.org.za To get there from Tesselaarsdal 29km – 18 minutes

Expect to see mighty oak trees, original thatched cottages, leafy lanes and mountain views.

Best in spring if you’re a nature lover; in summer, the days morph into long, cool evenings, autumn turns the oak-lined lanes golden and winter means crackling log fires and snow on the mountains.

Best spot to overnight is Oewerzicht, a pet-friendly, familyrun working farm with tents, chalets and several camping sites along the river. Contact: 028 254 9831 or visit oewerzicht.co.za Breakfast at Oak & Vigne which offers a selection of breads, croissants and breakfasts or, on a Saturday, get your morning fill at the Greyton Village Market. Visit: oakandvigne.co.za Lunch at Via’s Bistro, with a menu that changes daily and produce that is fresh. Visit: vias.co.za Dine at Searle’s Trading Post, an upmarket country restaurant.

Contact: 028 254 9550 or visit searles.co.za To get there from Riviersonderend 51,6km – 30 minutes

Expect to see an interesting and historic village in the oldest Moravian mission village in Africa and the Genadendal Church Square, a national monument site.

Best in the April and December school holidays.

Best spot to overnight is the Weder Guesthouse, which has two self-catering units, and standard guesthouse accommodation.

Contact: 028 251 8346 Breakfast at the museum complex on the historic Church Square with a few slices of traditional bread made from the restored water mill’s stoneground flour and baked in open-air ovens. Don’t leave before you have sampled a few glasses of their special rooibos drink.

Lunch at Bakkerij de Ontmoeting in Genadendal’s main road offers local and Dutch treats.

Dine at Abbey Rose, a short 5km away, for typically South African dishes. Contact: 028 254 9470 or visit abbeyrose.co.za To get there from Greyton 7,6km – 5 minutes

Expect to see a valley surrounded by the picturesque Waterval and Baviaans Mountains.

Best in spring when fruit trees are a froth of blossoms. In summer the trees are heavily laden with fruit.

Best spot to overnight is at Rietspruit Country Cottage with its nearby dam, farm animals, bird watching and space to cycle.

Contact: 028 840 0337 or visit rietspruitcountrycottage.co.za Breakfast or lunch at Kelkiewyn Farm Stall, which is open from 8am. Visit: villiersdorpcellar.co.za Dine at Vrede en Lust’s Cotage Fromage. It is a 30-minute drive from Villiersdorp. Contact: 021 874 3991 or visit vnl.co.za To get there from Genadendal 50,1km – 30 minutes

magazine cape town

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31

books

a good read for toddlers astic a fant ture adven

Zoe and Beans – Hello Oscar!

By Chloë and Mick Inkpen

George flies South

By Simon James

(Published by Walker Books, R108) This is an inspirational story, for children from the age of three, about a little bird that loses his nest, but finds his wings. Winter is on the way and it’s time to fly south. George isn’t quite ready to leave his nest yet, but when an enormous gust of wind blows it out of the tree, things start to get really interesting. This is an outstanding, gentle and reassuring tale charmingly told and illustrated by the award-winning picture book creator who also brought you Baby Brains, Dear Greenpeace, Sally and the Limpet and Little One Step.

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R92) Zoe has found a guinea pig at the bottom of the garden.

She’s happy with her new companion and goes in search of a carrot for the little fellow. Then she finds a tortoise. She has never seen a real tortoise before. Then Bean stumbles onto a chameleon. She isn’t sure what chameleons eat, so she has to Google it. Finally, she finds a noisy parrot… one that doesn’t stop calling her Oscar. Where have they all come from? The hole in the fence could be a clue, but who lives on the other side? Meet Oscar, the new next-door neighbour and a brand new friend for Zoe and Beans.

for preschoolers

for early graders

a very specia l tale

Ben and the Whales – The Extraordinary Journey

By Ingrid Mennen and Irene Berg (Published by Tafelberg Publishers, R130) Whales played in the ocean below the cliff paths where Ben and Grandpa had often walked. The milkwood was their lookout. “Mysterious and magnificent creatures,” Grandpa would say, “flying giants of the sea!”

But then Grandpa became ill and died. Noticing that Ben finds it hard to say goodbye, Dad takes him to the milkwood, and tells him a story. This tale of bereavement will strike a chord with both children and adults alike.

A Scarlet Tail

By Susan Long and Claire Norden (Published by Random House Struik, R75) This is an engaging tale, written in verse, about a handsome African Grey Parrot, Nebuchadnezzar the Third, and his unlikely playmate, Belinda, a bright and busy bee. Nebuchadnezzar lives in the deep jungles of Africa and comes to rich and colourful life when he takes to the air, showing off his splendid plumage as he swoops and dives with his fellow fliers. But every young creature needs a playmate and some fun, and this is where Belinda the Bee comes in. She’s Nebuchadnezzar’s good friend, and after a day’s work they join together to play jungle hide-and-seek. Lots of laughs and giggles later, they settle down for a good night’s sleep.

Magical Mix-ups – Birthdays and Bridesmaids

By Marnie Edwards and Leigh Hodgkinson

Captain Underpants and the Terrifying Return of Tippy Tinkletrousers

By Dav Pilkey

(Published by Nosy Crow, R76) This is the first book in the Magical MixUps series, a unique combination of fiction and doodle books. Princess Sapphire and Witch Emerald live in the mixed-up land of Mixtopia, where everything is just a little bit odd. Let’s face it, perfect princesses and scruffy witches are not usually best friends.

So when there’s a terrible party muddle-up in Fairyland, Sapphire and Emerald are just the girls to lend a hand, but can they sort it on their own? They can’t. They need you to finish the illustrations and make the party of the year happen. Girls from the age of six can have fun by doodling, designing and drawing while they read.

(Published by Scholastic Inc., R109) The Captain Underpants books have been called the book that will get any child who never wanted to read, interested in the world of words. When we last saw George and Harold, they were headed to jail for the rest of their lives. Then they are pulled from prison by a time-travelling tyrant named Tippy Tinkletrousers? Now the boys are taking a trip back in time to the carefree days of kindergarten, when the scariest thing they had to face was not evil mad scientists, but a bully named Kipper Krupp.

And because George and Harold don’t invent Captain Underpants until they’re in Grade 4, they are on their own.

for preteens and teens The Secret Hen House Theatre

By Helen Peters (Published by Nosy Crow, R109) This is a beautiful debut novel for eight to 12 year olds.

Since the death of her mother, Hannah’s family life has been chaotic. Ignored by their dad, who’s absorbed as much by his grief as by the challenges of running their dilapidated farm, Hannah and her brothers and sisters are left to fend for themselves. Hannah decides she wants to do something special, something that connects her to her theatre-loving mom. She’s going to write and put on a play in the overgrown hen house. Then the farm is threatened with demolition, and Hannah has to find a way to save it.

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March 2013

The History Keepers – Circus Maximus

By Damian Dibben

a thr illing follow -up

(Published by Random House Struik, R167) This is the second book in the explosive The History Keepers series. The History Keepers are in terrible danger. Stocks of Atomium, the crucial ingredient that allows them to travel through time, are perilously low, and the agents must embark on a risky mission to find more. They are forced to travel further back into history than ever before in order to save the day. The History Keepers embark on another rollercoaster adventure that takes them into the heart of the ancient world, from Hades, to the streets of Rome.

magazine cape town

for us

parenting books Our Story – For my Daughter

By Helen Stephens and Lucy Tapper (Published by From to You Ltd, R240) This journal will inspire you to capture the unique story of you and your daughter. It helps you to record your shared experiences and unrepeatable moments – the growth, development and personality of your daughter; your time together and your emotional journey; your hopes and dreams, and the incredible bond you share. On your daughter’s 18th birthday she can receive this handwritten story, a priceless record of your years together, to be treasured forever. The book has beautiful illustrations throughout with anecdotes to inspire. Other books in the Parent and Child series include Bump to Birthday, Our Story – For my Son and Mum to Mum – Pass it on. To order, visit reflectionsinmotion.co.za

What to do when you want to give up

By Allon Raiz with Trevor Waller

A Chimpanzee in the Wine Cellar

By Pat Cavendish O’Neill

(Published by Bookstorm, R135) Being an entrepreneur is difficult and when times are tough, it gets even more difficult.

What do you do when all the financial indicators are telling you that you are a failure, but a voice deep inside tells you that you have something special? When do you know whether you are conning yourself, or if there is something worthwhile in your business? Allon Raiz has been there, and has guided countless other start-ups through the ultimate challenge of being an entrepreneur. Raiz takes us from where we left off in his first book, Lose the Business Plan.

(Published by Jonathan Ball Publishers, R180) In 1968, Pat Cavendish O’Neill reluctantly left her magical years in Kenya behind to join her mother in Somerset West, South Africa.

As always, the women attracted a colourful international audience into their extremely lavish lifestyle. Pat’s fierce love of animals resulted in her opening heart and home to a variety of creatures, from monkeys to a pack of 17 dogs. But a rescued chimp, Kalu found his way deepest into her heart.

For over 40 years Pat and Kalu have lived together and the one without the other is a picture incomplete.

magazine cape town

A Brand-New Child in 5 easy steps

By Andalene Salvesen

win

(Published by Struik Inspirational, R139,99) If you are struggling with your children and want to be a better parent, this book could help. It is inspired by the results which “Super Granny” Andalene Salvesen has gained from her home visits around the world, and shows that your child only changes when you become an empowered parent. Children are not born with boundaries and parents are often ill-equipped to enforce appropriate house rules. This book helps parents to regain their authority so that children can once again just be children. It guides parents to choose creative ideas for discipline. Andalene covers all the childhood phases, dealing with appropriate consequences.

Five readers each stand a chance to win a copy of this book. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-ct and use the code “brand-new-child CT”.

March 2013

33

calendar

what’s on in march

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

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

5

FUN FOR CHILDREN – p38

ONLY FOR PARENTS – p41

Veggie gardening Samantha van Riet, author of Roots, Shoots and Muddy Boots, offers this workshop.

Ladies’ craft classes Craft training in fabric painting, wooden decoupage, mosaics and jewellery beading.

bump, baby & tot in tow – p42

how to help – p42

Preggi Bellies classes A programme that draws on the latest research and exercise trends.

The Thursday Club A fundraiser to secure the future of children orphaned or affected by HIV/Aids.

SPECIAL EVENTS – p36 Cirque du Soleil: Dralion Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion tour has wowed over 2,5 million people worldwide.

34

March 2013

magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com / Niklas Zimmer

tue

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March 2013

35

calendar

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 friday Canal Walk Bridal Fair Find inspiration for your big day. You can win a dream wedding, which includes the venue, photography, the dress, event planning and the honeymoon valued at a total of R200 000. Ends 3 March. Time: 9am–9pm, Friday–Sunday. Venue: Canal Walk; displays throughout the centre. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 021 914 2852, 083 456 2879 or cheryl@cwe.co.za Cannons Creek Independent School open days 1 March: primary school. Time: 9am–12pm. 2 March: high school. Time: 9am promptly. Venue: Cannons Creek Independent School, cnr Princess Path and Nursery Way, Pinelands. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 531 0912 (primary) or 021 531 5011 (high school) RMB Starlight Classics Music and performing arts followers can look forward to a star-studded line-up of some of South Africa’s much-loved performers.

The audience is invited to take their own picnics, blankets and low fold-up chairs.

Also 2 March. Time: 7:30pm, Friday; 7pm, Saturday. Venue: Vergelegen Wine Estate, Lourensford Rd, Somerset West. Cost: R180, R150 for children/pensioners. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 Van der Merwe Festival 352 This festival for everyone is in honour of the famous South African surname. There are food stalls, exhibitions, tours to the original family farm, a children’s area, historical talks, a Sarel van der Merwe book signing, music performances by, among others, Wicus van der Merwe as well as a Miss Van der Merwe competition. Ends 3 March. Time: varies, visit the website for programme details. Venue: Backsberg Wine Estate. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit vandermerwefees.co.za

2 saturday Cansa Shavathon Take part at a shopping centre today by shaving, spraying, stencilling or (new for 2013) gelling hair. Time: 9am.

Venue: participating shopping centres. Cost: R50 donation, children under 12 R25. For more info: visit shavathon.org.za Pirate-themed family fun day There are food stalls, a pirate jumping castle, pony rides, an auction, rides, games and art activities. Go dressed as a pirate and get in free. Time: 9:30am–2pm. Venue: The Children’s Montessori Workshop, 4 Chichester Rd, Claremont. Cost: adults R5, children under 12 free. Contact: 021 671 7538 or childwork@mweb.co.za Feast of the Grape This event marks the end of the harvest and the arrival of autumn. Sample wines on show from the Durbanville region; try grape stomping and milking a cow; view the tractor exhibition or browse the stalls for local produce. There is live entertainment, old-school games, a jumping castle, face painting and more. Also 3 March.

Time: 12pm–5pm, daily. Venue: Durbanville Race Course. Cost: adults R100, children R50. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za

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1–3 March – Canal Walk Bridal Fair

St Cyprians School Vintage Carnival Enjoy a day of activities with children’s entertainment, prizes, market stalls, live music, food and more. Time: 11am. Venue: St Cyprians School, Gorge Rd, Oranjezicht.

Cost: adults R10, children R5 entry. All activities and food sold on a token system.

Contact Charlotte: 021 461 1090

3 sunday Eikendal Weintaufe Harvest Celebration Attractions include tastings, live music entertainment, craft stalls, lucky draws, vineyard tractor rides, fly fishing, barrel stomping, pony rides and activities for children. Cost: R60, which includes a complimentary glass and barrel tasting; children under 12 free. Time: 10am. Venue: Eikendal Wine Estate, on the R44 between Stellenbosch and Somerset West. Contact: 021 855 1422 or info@eikendal.co.za

5 tuesday CBC St John’s Parklands open day Prospective parents can tour the various schools and see the students in action.

Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: CBC St John’s Parklands, cnr Parklands Main Rd and Dorchester Dr, Parklands. Cost: free.

Contact: Cathy 021 556 5969 or office@ cbcstjohns.co.za Cirque du Soleil: Dralion This tour is a fusion of ancient Chinese circus tradition and the avant-garde approach of Cirque du Soleil. The show has wowed over 2,5 million people worldwide. Ends 10 March. Time: 8pm; 1pm and 5pm, 10 March. Venue: Grand Arena, GrandWest Casino, Goodwood. Cost: R330–R495.

Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za and for more info on Cirque Club membership: visit cirqueclub.com

8 friday The Fairy Queen This is a theatrical staging by the Umcilo Company of Henry Purcell’s adaptation of the Shakespearean romantic comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Ends 10 March. Time: 7pm, 8 March; 3pm, 9 and 10 March. Venue: Joseph Stone Theatre, Athlone. Cost: R30–R150. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com magazine cape town

10 March – Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour

9 saturday The Vine School open day Take the time to visit this new Ambleside School and learn more about the curriculum based on the philosophy of British educator Charlotte Mason. Supervision and refreshments are provided for children of all ages. Time: 9am–11am and 2pm–4pm. Venue: 37 Denver Rd, Lansdowne. Cost: free. Contact: 021 696 3220, info@thevineschool.org.za or visit thevineschool.org.za Michael Oak Waldorf open day The school takes children from playgroup age to Grade 12. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: 4 Marlow Rd, Kenilworth. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 797 9728, info@michaeloak. org.za or visit michaeloak.org.za

10 sunday Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour On the second Sunday in March every year, 35 000 cyclists line up to participate in the world’s largest timed cycling event, the Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour. Time: varies. Venue: Cape Peninsula. Cost: visit the website. For more info: visit cycletour.co.za

15 friday Camps Bay Preparatory School open day Time: 8:30am–12pm. Venue: The Drive, Camps Bay. Cost: free. Contact: 021 438 8075 The Cape Getaway Show Enjoy 250 outdoor, travel and adventure exhibits, photographic workshops, hikes; mountain biking; food, Best Value Wine tastings, live music and fun for the whole family.

Discover authentic travel experiences, snap up great deals, win prizes and buy the latest

9 sat

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camping gear, 4X4 equipment and outdoor accessories. There is also a mini cycle show.

Ends 17 March. Time: 10am–6pm, Friday; 9am–7pm, Saturday; 9am–5pm, Sunday.

Venue: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West. Cost: adults R60, children R30, under 12 year olds are free. Contact Debbie: 021 530 3192, debbie@ramsaymedia.co.za or visit getawayshow.co.za

16 saturday Bergvliet Primary School fun run and food fair The day incorporates games, The Travelling Bookshop and an attic/ garage sale. Time: 8:30am, 5km fun run; 9am, 2,5km fun run. Venue: Bergvliet Primary School, Children’s Way, Bergvliet.

Cost: fun run R25 per adult and R10 per child. Contact Bettie: 021 715 1103 or bethsha@bps.wcape.school.za Franschhoek Summer Wines The theme this year is “Elegantly White”. More than 30 of the valley’s finest wineries showcase their top summer wines. There is deli-style food, prepared by the chefs in the Leopard’s Leap kitchen, as well as an ice-cream bar and live entertainment.

Tutored tastings take place at 1pm and 3pm on the day. Prebook seats via events@franschhoek.org.za. Time: 12pm–5pm. Venue: Leap Family Vineyards, Franschhoek Wine Valley. Cost: R180, which includes a tasting of all the wines on show. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za International Day Celebrate International Day at the American International School of Cape Town and honour the 48 countries that make up this diverse

Cape Argus Pick n Pay Tricycle Tour The Tricycle Tour is aimed at youngsters up to the age of 6 years old. Enter your little ones for the 1,7km fun ride. The Junior Tour is ideal for children 6–12 years old and offers either a 2,5km, 5km or 7,5km route. Parents on their own bikes are welcome to join first-timers on the track. Each child participating receives a goody bag, a medal and a certificate upon completion. Time: from 8:30am.

Venue: Youngsfield Military Base, Wynberg. Cost: visit the website for details. For more info or to enter online visit: juniortour.co.za

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16 sat

The Jan van Riebeeck Festival The event includes a mountain trail, fun run as well as a dedicated children’s play and entertainment area with the ZipZap Circus. There is also a deli, beer garden, gourmet braai with nine celebrated chefs and more. Live music is provided

by Spoegwolf, Nedine Blom and the Radio Kalahari Orkes. Time: 5am registration for Lion’s Head Challenge; 11am live music starts.

Venue: Jan van Riebeeck High School sports field, De Hoop Ave, Tamboerskloof. Cost: adults R20, free for all children up to Grade 7.

Contact: 021 423 4209 (Louise), 083 630 9661 (Lize), 083 457 2472 (Miranda) or visit jvrfeesdag.co.za

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school community. There are rides for children of all ages, food from around the world, live music, a silent auction and more. Time: 2pm–7pm. Venue: AISCT, 42 Soetvlei Ave, Constantia. Cost: children’s wristbands for unlimited rides are R100 per child. Contact: pafaemail@gmail.com or visit aisct.org Parklands College open day View the college and its facilities. Time: 10am–1pm.

Venue: 91 Raats Dr and 50 Wood Dr, Parklands and 1 College Ave, Sandown.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 521 2700 or 0861 EDUCATE (338 2283) The Durbanville Farm Festival There is entertainment by Dillon Lerm, farm fun for children and a Miss Farm Festival competition. Also taste and buy goodies.

Time: tbc. Venue: Diemersdal Wine Estate.

Cost: adults R20, learners R5. Contact Eleza: 021 976 4106, 083 603 3367, plaasfees@ isales.co.za or visit bergsigdv.co.za Carnival of Wonder Dress up in costume for the Constantia Waldorf Fair and stand a chance of winning prizes. They offer live music, entertainment, a variety of food and refreshment stalls, rides, games and crafts.

Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Spaanschemat River Rd, Constantia. Cost: adults R30, children R15. For more info: cwsfair.co.za

and others provide entertainment. Lekker Kaapsekos and a secure, supervised children’s play area with crafts and games are available throughout the day.

Time: 10am–9pm. Venue: Solms-Delta Wine Estate, Delta Rd, off R45 towards Franschhoek. Cost: adults R120–R140, children under 12 years old R20. Contact: 021 874 3937, info@solms-delta.co.za or visit solms-delta.co.za

23 saturday

29 friday

ATKV Franschhoek Oesfees Claire Johnston, Emo Adams, Die Heuwels Fantasties, Hot Water, Tribal Echo, RKO

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon fun runs Line up for 56m, 300m, 2,1km, 5,6km and 8km. Time: 12:30pm, 56m

23 March – ATKV Franschhoek Oesfees

Nappy Dash for children 3 years old and younger; 1pm, 300m Toddlers Trot for 4–6 year olds; 1:30pm, 2,1km race; 2pm, 5,6km race; 3pm, 8km race. Venue: University of Cape Town rugby fields, Upper Campus, Rondebosch. Cost: R25 entry for any of the races. For registration details and to enter online: visit twooceansmarathon.org.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Fabric painting workshops Step-bystep instruction for beginners and advanced

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students. Time: 10am–1pm, Tuesday and Wednesday; 2:30pm–5pm, Friday and Saturday mornings. Venues: Newlands and Pinelands. Cost: R180 for four lessons and a free introductory class once a month.

Contact Wendy: 021 531 8076, 082 391 4954 or wendyadriaan@telkomsa.net Sue Nepgen’s children’s art classes The latter half of the first term and the second term’s programme includes mixed media collaged pictures on a marine theme, using inks. It includes drawing, sketching, watercolour, pottery, tissue paper transparencies, drawing and painting. For 4–13 year olds. Time: in the afternoons and Saturday morning. Venues: Michael Oak Waldorf School, Kenilworth or 28 Klaasenbosch Dr, Constantia. Cost: R590 a term, including materials and firing. Prorata fees for late joiners. Contact Sue: 021 794 6609, 021 794 4723, 083 237 7242 or snepgen@xsinet.co.za

For 3–12 year olds. Time: 1:30pm–2pm and 2:30pm–3pm (two sessions), every Thursday during term. Venue: Church of Christ, cnr Irene Ave and Lourensford Rd, Somerset West. Cost: R45 once-off or R140 for four consecutive weeks. Contact Lana: 071 871 5839 or lana@drumkidz.co.za

family outings Steenberg Night Picnic In support of Earth Hour, gather family and friends, take a blanket and enjoy a night picnic on this historic farm’s lawn. 23 March. Time: 8:30pm. Venue: Steenberg Vineyards, Constantia. Cost: R400 per picnic basket for two from Bistro Sixteen82. Contact: 021 713 2211, info@steenbrg.co.za or visit steenberg-vineyards.co.za

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23 March – Steenberg Night Picnic

finding nature and outdoor play

classes, talks and workshops Petit Chef’s Ahoy cooking classes Children’s cooking classes to introduce various techniques, textures and flavours.

For 3–10 year olds. Ends 16 March. Time: morning and afternoon slots available daily, excluding Sunday. Venue: email for details.

Cost: on request. Contact Carmen: 074 585 8269, carmen@petitchefsahoy.co.za or visit petitchefsahoy.co.za Weekly drumming workshop Children drum on djembe drums and sing to stories.

The City Sightseeing Night Tour The bus stops at Signal Hill for sunset so remember to take a picnic basket. The tour is not hop-on, hop-off. Take warm clothes.

15 March–6 May. Time: 5:30pm–8:30pm.

Venue: Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za Transformational parenting course and long weekend Join the organisers for a family centred long weekend in the Klein Karoo to gain insight into yourself and your children and how to create a happier, more peaceful and successful home. Accommodation is available.

For more info: 083 451 4594, mia@ transformationalcoaching.co.za or visit transformationalcoaching.co.za

Green Point Urban Park

Green Point Urban Park The park is perfect for a family outing with scooters, bikes and picnic baskets. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Time: 7am–7pm, daily.

Venue: Green Point, alongside the Cape Town Stadium. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 417 0101 Kirstenbosch Centenary Walk On the first Saturday of every month this twohour walk takes you back in time, before the paths and roads, flower beds and rockeries, to when Kirstenbosch was just a run-down, ramshackle farm. 2 March.

Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch

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Take a Child to Theatre Day The World Day for Theatre for Children and Young People works to ensure that all children have access to the arts. Artscape Theatre, Klein Libertas Teater, KKNK Festival, Rhumbelow Theatre, Dorp Straat Teater, Pierneef Teater, Theatre on the Bay and Masque Theatre have come out in support. Make a contribution of R10 by texting “Theatre4Youth” to 38490, thereby sponsoring children and youth to visit the theatre on and around World Theatre Day. There will also be the annual Family Season Festival on 20–28 March at Vrygrond/Capricorn and Observatory. For more

on stage and screen

info, contact Themba: 021 822 0070/1/2 or fundmarket@assitej.org.za

DreamWorks Dragons: Riders of Berk premieres The series follows the continuing adventures of Hiccup and his dragon Toothless, on the Viking island of Berk. The show starts on Tuesday 5 March at 5:25pm on Cartoon Network, DStv channel 301 and thereafter every Tuesday with repeats on Wednesday at 7am, Monday at 7am and 5:25pm, and Saturday and Sunday at 10am and 2:35pm.

McClaren Circus This is a family circus with local and international artists. 5–24 March.

Excluding 11 and 18 March. Time: 3pm or 7:30pm. Venue: Somerset West (5–17 March); Kraaifontein (19–24 March). Cost: R90 or R110. Contact: 021 702 0434, 082 747 5726, bookings@mclarencircus.co.za or visit mclarencircus.co.za

20 wed

National Botanical Garden. Cost: garden entry cost. Contact: 021 799 8783 or visit sanbi.org Two Oceans Aquarium marine ecotour Solemate members can hop aboard the Ocean Adventurer for a marine ecotour that focuses on the rich biodiversity found in the waters of Table Bay. Pack a picnic basket. 23 March. Time: 9am–10:45am. Venue: V&A Waterfront.

Cost: adults R130 and children 4–12 years old R70. Contact: 021 418 3823 or members@aquarium.co.za Veggie gardening and graft workshop Samantha van Riet, author of Roots, Shoots and Muddy Boots offers this workshop. For 4–9 year olds. 10 and 17 March. Time: 11am–12pm and 1pm–2pm. Venue: Le Bonheur Croc Farm, Babylonstoren Rd, R45, Simondium. Cost: R15. Contact Samantha: samsart@mweb.co.za

markets Food and craft market There is a beer garden, restaurant tent, crafts, coffee and

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Simonsberg wines, country fare, craft stalls with local produce, harvest activities, horse rides and live music. There is a play corner with go-kart rides, a trampoline, jungle gym and a children’s theatre. 10 March.

Time: 10am. Venue: Delvera Agri-village.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 886 8275 or visit wineroute.co.za

March 2013

children’s entertainment. 23 March. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: D’Aria Estate, Racecourse Rd, Durbanville. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 327 0831, info@doiliemarket.co.za or visit daria.co.za Kildare Preprimary Easter Fair Expect food and drinks, an appearance by the Easter bunny, children’s rides and games, craft stalls, an Easter egg hunt and fun and games. 9 March. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: 75 Kildare Rd, Newlands. Cost: adults R10, children free. Contact: 021 674 4360 or 079 500 4959 Micklefield Market Enjoy family fun and activities, games, local quality craft stalls, a beer tent and tea garden, food and more. 8 March. Time: 4pm–9pm. Venue: 81 Sandown Rd, Rondebosch. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 685 6494 or admin@ micklefield.co.za Schoolyard market Enjoy the food, crafts and music. 2 March. Time: 9am. Venue: Elkanah House High School Campus, 85 Sunningdale Dr, Sunningdale. Cost: free entry. Contact Michelle: 021 554 8586 or michellej@elkanah.co.za Simonsberg Wine Route Market Day A festive day with award-winning

Cowbells and Tortoise Shells

29 fri

Pedro the Music Man tells a series of African adventure stories in which greedy hunters, tyrannical chiefs, tortoise tears and other problems are overcome with music. These stories introduce a fascinating variety of instruments including the world’s first flute and a one-child-one-note ensemble of bells. For 4–9 year olds. 29 March– 7 April. Time: 11am. Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. Cost: R50. For more info and to book: visit kbt.co.za

20 March – Storytelling at N1 City Mall

Nickelodeon’s Kid Choice Awards It is the only award show that gives children the power to vote for their favourites in movies, television, music, sports and more.

27 March. Time: 5:45pm. Showing on DStv channel 305

playtime and story time Brackenfell Library story hour The themes are as follows: 6 March: secrets. 13 March: Easter. 20 March: visiting people.

27 March: zebra. Time: 10:30am, every Wednesday. Venue: Paradys St. Contact: 021 980 1261 Free storytelling session In support of World Storytelling Day. The first 25 children to attend receive a free milkshake voucher from Wimpy. 20 March. Time: 11am–12pm. Venue: N1 City Mall, Louwtjie Rothman St, Goodwood. Cost: free. For more info: visit n1citymall.co.za Valley Farmstall family fun Parents can relax in a tranquil setting, while their children play in the secure playground. Eats are available or you can bring your own picnic for a nominal entry fee. Time: 9am–4pm, Wednesday–Sunday. Venue: Valley Farmstall, Valley Rd, Hout Bay. Cost: free entry if ordering from the menu; picnic entry: adults R30, children 2–12 years old R15, children under 2 free. Contact: 021 790 3803, 079 323 6290 or valleyfarmstall@gmail.com

sport and physical activities Delvera Hi-Tec Full Moon Hike You can picnic and enjoy the sunset over Table Mountain with stunning views of the winelands. All ages and fitness levels are welcome. 27 March. Time: 4:30pm.

Venue: Dirtopia Trail Centre, Delvera Farm,

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R44 between Klapmuts and Stellenbosch.

Cost: R60; R25 for children under 10 years old. Contact: 021 884 4752, info@dirtopia. co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Gym Wizards Get a free trial lesson until 15 March. They offer fun-filled, stimulating gymnastics lessons for children aged 4–13 years old. Time: call to enquire. Venue: Tamboerskloof. Cost: varies, trial lesson free.

Contact Chrismari: 083 750 0441, chrismari@ gymwizards.co.za or visit gymwizards.co.za In-season cricket coaching Cricket School of Excellence (CSE) offers in- and off-season individual and group cricket coaching. For details on the various age groups, times, venues and costs, contact: 021 671 9460, 082 491 7506, ryan@cricketschool.co.za or visit cricketschool.co.za Kirstenhof Dance and Pilates Studio Sign up for ballet, modern or hip-hop dancing and Pilates classes. For all ages.

A free trial class is available. Time: varies, daily. Venue: 14 Windhover St, Kirstenhof.

Cost: varies for group or private sessions.

Contact Liane: 021 701 2750, 082 739 0100 or lianepenny@gmail.com Spur Kiddies Funride Little ones can choose from 500m, 1km or 3km and there are medals, drinks and goodies for all. From 2 to under 12 years old. 24 March. Time: 8am registration; 9:45am, 500m; 9:30am, 1km and 9am, 3km. Venue: Lourensford

Wine Estate, Somerset West. Cost R25, R35 and R45 entry. Contact Dirtopia: 021 884 4752 theteam@dirtopia.co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za Tag Rugby summer sessions A fun, noncontact form of rugby for boys and girls. 1, 8 and 15 March. Time: 2:45pm–3:30pm.

Venue: Western Province Cricket Club, Rondebosch. Cost: R400. Contact Rose: 021 683 2269 or rose@taggroup.co.za Teddy Tennis Cape Town This fun programme teaches ball, movement, listening and racket skills to Teddy Bear story themes and music. For 2½–7 year olds.

Time: after school, Monday–Friday. Venue: The Glen Country Club, Victoria Rd, Clifton.

Cost: R100 per 45-minute lesson. Contact: 083 679 0731 or mark@teddytennis.com Teen Trojan Warrior tryouts Children 13–17 years old can try out for the Trojan Warrior Challenge taking place in the June school holidays where challenges are set out at Grand West Casino. 23 March. Time: 10am–12pm for registration; tryouts end 5pm. Venue: Ratanga Junction. Cost: varies.

For more info: visit trojanwarriors.co.za Yoga for Kids 18 March. For children aged 3–8 years old. Time: 3pm–3:45pm.

Venue: Mowbray Shopping Centre, 28 Main Rd, Mowbray. Cost: free, booking essential; limited space. Contact Claire: 021 685 8119 or 073 615 2503

The Cricket and Soccer School of Cape Town Grade 1–7 coaching. Enquire when the respective sports are coached. Time: 1:30pm–6pm, Friday. Venue: Newlands. Cost: R390 per term. They also offer fun group classes and coaching for Grade R–12 learners. Contact: 084 777 1212 or sportingacademy@gmail.com

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only for parents classes, talks and workshops David Wolfe SA tour He tours South Africa with Rawlicious to share his cuttingedge knowledge on food, health, longevity, success and everything in-between. The talk provides new tools you can apply immediately as well. Smoothies are provided on arrival.

15 March. Time: 7pm–10pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch, Newlands. Cost: R300. For more info: visit davidwolfesouthafricantour. com/tour-products/ Discipline for Peace workshops Be empowered with positive skills and find out which skills are effective. 6 and 13 March.

Time: 7pm–9:30pm. Venue: Constantia Waldorf School. Cost: R1 000 per person; R1 750 per couple. Contact: 021 696 1946, 076 303 5324 (sms) or karoy@mweb.co.za Easter Bunny cupcakes Make decorated cupcakes with an Easter bunny and other toppers. No experience is needed. Booking is essential. 16 March. Time: 9:30am–2pm.

Venue: Constantia. Cost: R550, which includes all materials. Book through Bianca: classes@cupcakesbydesign.co.za Fairy toadstool cake Learn how to create a tree-stump cake with Grace Stevens.

7 and 8 March. Time: 9:30am–4:30pm.

Venue: Constantia. Cost: R1 000 for both days, which includes all materials except the cake and extruder gun. Book through Bianca: classes@cupcakesbydesign.co.za Ladies’ craft classes Week one (5 March): fabric painting. Week two (12 March): wooden decoupage. Week three (19 March): mosaics. Week four (26 March): jewellery beading. Time: 9am–12:30pm.

Venue: Stages Lifestyle Centre, Littlewoods, Ottery. Cost: R150 per person per lesson or R500 per person per four-week craft course, which includes all materials. Contact: 021 704 1462 or stages@polka.co.za Learn CPR and save a life Paediatric nursing sister Lee-Ann White runs a CPR course for parents, childminders and au pairs. Discovery Health members earn Vitality points. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Pinelands. Cost: R220. Contact Lee-Ann: 021 531 4182 or 072 283 7132 Personally transformative workshops A two-day workshop called Sacred Feminine Alchemy helps you to identify old

behavioural patterns, and unplug patriarchal conditioning, deepen discernment, upgrade emotional processing tools and activate your unique thrival template. Eleftheria helps you to align with your soul path. 16 and 17 March. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: southern suburbs. Cost: R1 800. Contact: sacredfem@lovelight.co.za Sophia Family Centre coffee morning 6 and 13 March. Call to confirm programme.

Time: 10:30am tea; 10:50am–12pm talk and discussion. Venue: Constantia Waldorf School. Cost: suggested donation R30 for tea and the speaker. Contact Yvonne: 021 794 1492 or Marlene: 021 794 2103 Sugar and Spice Nanny Training Course starts in Green Point on 1 March and in Claremont on 6 March. For more info, contact Kirsten: 083 406 0028, kirsten @ nannytraining.co.za or visit nannytraining.co.za Teacher tools training: listening skills and phonological awareness This workshop is facilitated by a speech and language therapist and is for carers and educators. Teachers learn in a practical and fun way how to develop these important skills in children aged 2–5 years old. 16 March. Time: 8:30am–4pm. Venue: Paarl Historium Conference Centre, 11 Pastorie Ave, Paarl. Cost: R650. Contact Karen: 082 573 6290 or info@doctorseek.co.za Why Choose Montessori? And is Montessori for me and my child?

They look at the philosophy behind, and the varying opinions on, Montessori as well as how difficult it is to move

6 March – For Fits and Giggles

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13–24 March – Tap Dogs

from a Montessori preprimary to a mainstream primary school. 16 March.

Time: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: ELF Montessori Teacher Training, 28 Main Rd, Mowbray. Cost: R50. Contact Claire: 021 685 8119, elfsecretary@gmail.com or visit elfmontessori.co.za

on stage and screen For Fits and Giggles An enigmatic mix of South Africa’s finest stand-up comedians unites for the sake of children with epilepsy.

6 March. Time: 8pm–10pm. Venue: Artscape Theatre. Cost: R175–R200. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com I Am What I Am The show features music from contemporary musicals such as Wicked and Chorus Line. 6–16 March. Time: 8pm.

Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. Cost: tbc . For more info: visit kbt.co.za Kirstenbosch concerts 3 March: Goldfish; 10 March: Jeremy Loops and Holiday Murray; 17 March: Ringo Madlingozi; 24 March: Shadowclub and Gangs of Ballet; 31 March: Mi Casa and Natasha Meister.

Time: 4pm–7pm, every Sunday. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Rhodes Dr, Newlands. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za ‘‘So… you think you can love? ” From speed dating to one-night stands and proposing to a gay man, the one thing that Esgueira can teach you is that there’s no such thing as too much wine before a first date. 8–29 March. Time: 8:15pm, Tuesday–Saturday. Venue: Artscape Arena. Cost: R70–R110. Book through Artscape Dial-a Seat: 021 421 7695 or Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Tap Dogs This is entertainment that combines high-energy dance, theatrical performance and live music. 13–24 March.

Time: 8pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 3pm, Saturday; 2pm and 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Artscape Theatre. Cost: R100–R300. Book through Artscape Dial-a-Seat: 021 421 7695 or Computicket: 0861 915 8000

out and about Annual golf challenge for charity Bellville Rotary Club is involved with a number of community projects. All funds raised from this event benefit the special needs school, Cheré Botha School. 7 March. Venue: Bellville Golf Estate, Jip de Jager Ave, Welgemoed, Bellville. Contact: 021 910 2011 or 021 948 9134

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Blues at Muratie Highly acclaimed international blues artists Matt Woosey and José Luis Pardo perform. Tickets for the concerts include a glass of Muratie wine on arrival. 10 March. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Muratie Wine Farm, Knorhoek Rd, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch. Cost: R80; children under 12 years old free. Contact: 021 865 2330, info@ muratie.co.za or visit muratie.co.za Cherry Morning A morning of live entertainment and surprises. 9 March.

Time: 9:30am–12pm. Venue: Welgemoed Primary School. Cost: R60. Contact: 021 948 9134 or 021 910 2011 Mystery Ghost bus tour The tour features pub-and-grub stops, poltergeists, EVP recordings, dowsing rods, orbs and vortex mists, castles, a haunted room, graveyards and more. 9 March. Time: 7pm–midnight. Cost: R299. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or for more info: visit mysteryghostbus.co.za

support groups LGBTI parents 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 Heather: 021 448 3812, health2@triangle. org.za, visit triangle.org.za or visit their Facebook page Proud 2B – LGBTI Parents

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Antenatal workshop A three-hour workshop with BabyCalm to prepare parentsto-be to calmly and confidently welcome their baby. 27 March. Time: 7pm. Venue: High Level Rd, Green Point. Cost: R550.

Contact Lauren: 079 450 6779, lauren@ babycalming.com or visit babycalming.com Grow your baby’s brain parenting workshop Dr Nils Bergman and Jill Bergman present the latest neuroscience programme for your baby’s brain. Babies are welcome to accompany parents. 16 March.

Time: 8:30am–1pm. Venue: Vincent Pallotti Hospital Conference Room, Pinelands.

Cost: R150 per person or R250 per couple.

Contact: jill@kangaroomothercare.com Moms and Babes Claremont Stimulation classes for 2–12 month olds. Time: 10am or 3pm, Monday–Thursday. Venue: 36 Water St, Claremont. Cost: call to enquire.

Contact: 021 671 8690, 082 746 3223 or reesdi@mweb.co.za

Mother and baby course An eight-hour course with BabyCalm is designed to soothe babies and fill new moms with confidence.

Ideally, babies should start before 12 weeks of age. 19 and 26 March, 2 and 9 April. Time: 9:30am–11:30am, every Tuesday. Venue: High Level Rd, Green Point. Cost: R1 100.

Contact Lauren: 079 450 6779, lauren@ babycalming.com or visit babycalming.com Preggi Bellies classes The exercise programme draws on the latest research, exercise trends and valuable feedback from over 15 000 participating pregnant and postnatal women. Time and venue: 6pm Thursday and 8:45am Saturday in Rondebosch; 10:15am and 6:30pm Monday and 10:30am Thursday in Constantia; 6:30pm Tuesday and 8am Saturday in CBD/Gardens; 6:30pm Monday, 5:30pm Wednesday and 9am Saturday in Durbanville; 6:30pm Monday and 8am Saturday in Century City. Cost: call to enquire. Contact: 021 552 1414

playtime and story time Saturday morning creative learning Designed to make Islamic learning fun and creative for young minds, there is a full madrasah programme following school terms. June and November progress reports provided. End of year graduation and party. From 4–7 year olds. Only 10 children per age group.

Time: 9:30am–12:30pm, every Saturday.

Venue: Littlewoods, Ottery (opposite China Town). Directions upon registration. Cost: registration R200 per child, fees R200 per child per month. Contact: 021 704 1462, 074 106 0713, kidsklub1@polka.co.za or visit stageslifestyle.co.za Wriggle and Rhyme Moms and babies/ toddlers enjoy music and movement together. They use props, puppets, movement and instruments to engage and stimulate the children. Time: varies. Venues: groups run in Claremont, Constantia and Fish Hoek. Cost: call to enquire. For more info: visit wriggleandrhyme.co.za

support groups La Leche League’s breast-feeding support groups Panorama: 4 March.

Contact Carol: 021 558 5319. Durbanville: 19 March. Contact Trudy: 021 913 2816 or Tiffany: 021 913 3586. Parklands: 9 March.

Contact Kim: 082 330 5352. Parow: 20 March. Contact Dilshaad: 021 930 2475.

Milnerton Mediclinic: 18 March at 9:30am.

Contact Juliet: 021 556 0693. Parklands Intercare: 26 March. Contact Simela: 021 553 1664. Paarl: 5 March. Contact Jonette: 021 872 5297. Rondebosch: 12 March.

Contact Becky: 021 531 2485. Fish Hoek: 5 March. Contact Tammy: 021 782 9240.

Stellenbosch: 12 March. Contact Olga: 082 062 0206 or Francia: 082 940 9685.

Malmesbury: telephonic help. Contact Selma: 083 265 5458. Napier: telephonic

help. Contact Emma: 082 696 3584. Time: 10am, unless otherwise stated. Cost: free.

For more info: visit La Leche League South Africa’s Facebook page or visit llli.org.

The Parent Centre moms-to-be and moms and babies support groups These groups are suitable for moms with babies up to one year old. Tuesday moms group. Time: 10:30am–12:30pm, every Tuesday. Venue: Mediclinic Cape Town. Thursday moms group. Time: 10am–12pm, every Thursday. Venue: Mediclinic Constantiaberg. Cost: R50, including refreshments. Contact: visit their Facebook pages: Tuesday Moms Group (Parent Centre) and Thursday Moms Group (Parent Centre) for the monthly programme or visit theparentcentre.org.za

how to help Kidz2Kidz “LOVY” Project With your help, Lovy can share a story of self-love with children to teach them that no matter what their circumstances are they can always find a little love within themselves. To read how you can help and make a difference in a child’s life, visit: lovy-lovesyou.com Lucky Lucy Foundation This organisation is pro-life, pro-quality of life and tries to relieve the plight of severely neglected and abused street animals. Help them by donating, crossing off items on their farm wish list, helping pay vet bills, fundraising, volunteering, fostering, becoming a Guardian Angel and adopting. For more info, visit: luckylucy.org The Thursday Club This is a social networking fundraiser to help secure the future of South African children orphaned or affected by HIV/Aids. There are many ways you can get involved, including bringing 10 friends with you to the next event, sponsoring your venue or a prize for a giveaway/auction, referring 10 people to The Thursday Club Cape Town mailing list or liking the Facebook page: The Thursday Club, coming to 10 of the group’s events this year, telling 10 friends about the group and donating R10 to LFAF. For more info: visit lightfromafricafoundation.co.za

Kidz2Kidz “LOVY” Project

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to capetown@childmag.co.za or fax it to 021 462 2680. Information must be received by 22 February for the April issue, and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, visit childmag.co.za

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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

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finishing touch

on your mark You don’t need to cross the finishing line to enjoy taking part in the race, says ANÉL LEWIS.

i

t was with much excitement that we prepared for Erin’s first sport’s day, just a fortnight after she started school.

I wasn’t even aware of the upcoming race, until I saw her speeding down the garden one afternoon as she mumbled, “Getreadyset and go”. When I asked her what she was doing, she informed me that she was “running” and that I must please take a seat on the grass. She then proceeded to demonstrate her athletic prowess. Please note that this demo also included a quick refresher for me on how to clap appreciatively as she ran past, in case I had forgotten the rudiments of being a good spectator.

I was thrilled that she had taken to running, as her father and I are both training for the Two Oceans Marathon this month. Maybe our enthusiasm for the sport

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was rubbing off on her? With childhood obesity reaching alarming proportions, I am all for anything that promotes a more active lifestyle.

And besides, according to research from the United Kingdom, Erin is already streaks ahead of me when it comes to fitness training. The study says that a toddler expends about the same amount of energy as an adult who runs 50km, or cycles 130km. No wonder we’re both exhausted at the end of the day.

So, armed with these stats, and encouraged by Erin’s diligent practice runs leading up to the race, I wasn’t too concerned about the actual event.

On the big day, I arrived home to find all her plastic chairs lined up against the lounge wall. She was recreating the race setting, just in case we weren’t too sure about how it

would all work. I had no inkling that her heart was no longer in the event, until we were due to leave, and she refused to don her class’s green shirt. “No, mom, I don’t want it.” Okay, we don’t need to run in the official colours; this isn’t the Olympics, I reasoned.

Then I took out her running shoes, in the hope that these would reignite her interest.

“I don’t like it,” was the firm response.

Unfazed, we headed for school, armed with video cameras – an extra one in case one of us missed the high-speed action – and some energy-boosting snacks. As we set up camp for Team Lewis on the grass, Erin surveyed the track, with its neatly drawn white lines. She looked at the coloured flags and took in the children starting to gather on the little plastic chairs. And when the cry rang out for the Dragonflies to “get ready, get set and go”, my little girl refused to budge.

She was having none of this “run on demand” business. I suppose, in her mind, she reckoned that she knew she could do it. There was no need to run with the rest of the class, just because some people were waving a few flags. Later, as we packed up the snacks and folded away the unworn green T-shirt, I spotted a pink flash as Erin sprinted down the track, all on her own. Team Lewis was on its feet, clapping loudly just as we had been taught. I suppose it’s not so much about the race, but about how (and when) we choose to run it.

Anél Lewis is Child magazine’s features editor. She will be in the final days of training for her first half marathon when you read this, and hoping that she can live up to her daughter’s race philosophy on the day.

Follow her on Twitter: @ChildMagParent

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PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

Erin, Anél and Conor