Child magazine | CPT March 2014

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

family

getaways baby on board – tips for travelling with tiny tots

family camping spots for ever yone school camp – are you all set? www.childmag.co.za

March 2014

free

plus

health

the importance of animals in your child’s life

education

entertainment

Hunter House PUB L IS H ING

Publisher

There is something magical about sleeping under the stars.

Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za

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

Art Designers Nikki-leigh Piper • studio@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 • ctsales@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: BROOKE FASANI

Nicolene Baldy • subs@childmag.co.za

Accounts

I just have to convince my husband.

This month’s resource (see page 18) has inspired me to put camping on our family getaway list and to try out as many of the sites as possible, dilapidated two-man tent, Beagles and all. The thought of waking up to the crisp morning air and collecting kindling to build the first fire of the day, fills me with childlike joy. I grew up making fires in our back garden, brewing strong coffee and making hunter’s stew

in my billycan. My dad was a Boy Scout all his life and imparted his fire-making skill and outdoor enthusiasm to me. Any chance of a campfire and I am there. I love building one and tending it until it grows into a pyromaniac’s dream. Thankfully my youngest daughter is also a keen camper, even though she has had to make do with school camps until now, which she loves. Hopefully our enthusiasm will rub off on my husband. I know the Beagles

are already looking for their spot on the backseat of the car. I may even pack in my dad’s old, beautifully adorned campfire blanket.

Is your child ready for school camp? See pg 12

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

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March 2014

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contents march 2014

12 upfront

8 pregnancy news – the right fit Marina Zietsman looks at how to

3 a note from lisa

choose the correct maternity bra

5 over to you readers respond

features 12 is your child camp ready?

Christina Castle looks at how to “let go” when it’s time for your child’s first school camp

14 school matters stick to a few basic rules and getting your child into Grade 1 won’t be such a nightmare, says Marina Zietsman

16 more than just a pet Tamlyn Vincent explains how children can learn a lot about, and from, animals by spending time with them

health

9 best for baby – prepare for takeoff flying long distance with your baby can be a different experience each time.

By Cassandra Shaw

10 dealing with difference – left of centre Lucille Kemp looks at the obstacles “lefties” have to face in a right-handed world

18 resource – happy campers Lucille Kemp gives you a list of family-friendly camp sites not too far from the Mother City

22 a good read for the whole family 23 what’s on in march 30 finishing touch Cassandra Shaw

7 hooked on fish there are many health benefits to eating fish, but we should think wisely about what type of fish we eat, advises Marc de Chazal

travelled the world as a child, and she wants her son to have the same experience

regulars

classified ads

6 upfront with paul we easily fall into

25 family marketplace

the trap of thinking that we are the parental experts, says Paul Kerton

28 let’s party

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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March 2014

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

shutterstock.com

Ackermans ackermans.co.za

Lisa Jacobs Photography facebook.com/ lisajacobsphotography

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

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over to you

letters

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.

dealing with bullies

thanks for a great getaway

The school my children attend recently launched an initiative to help combat any potential drug or bullying related problem. It consists of an anonymous communication platform where parents and learners are able to report any unacceptable behaviour, safely. I find it difficult to put into words just how the general morale has changed for the better. I wish this had been started years ago.

Daniel Alves

Thanks to Child mag and Xama Adventures on the Breede River for the online competition we won. It was stunning.

We had no cellphone reception and all we could do was enjoy quality family time.

Jemine

“moody” friend I have been reading your magazine for the past two months and I find it very informative. The only problem is that I get it from a friend, so if she is not in a good mood she does not lend it to me. Please tell me where can I get a monthly copy?

Lindiwe M Zwane Childmag says You can subscribe to the magazine for R165 (11 issues). Contact Nicolene at subs@childmag. co.za. Schools and organisations can also email her and ask to be put on the waiting list.

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

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competitive sport in primary schools I really enjoyed the article “active for life” (February 2014).

It has opened the eyes of quite a few people that I spoke to. Well done on highlighting a really important matter and helping parents think about sport from a different perspective.

Susan

five. Our smiles are an extension of the love between us.

I also hope to “embarrass” her for many years to come, and that she will understand it one day too.

Liesl Robbins

before going home, magazine is used as a classroom tool Your magazine which we hand out to the learners, has some great articles in it that we share in the homeroom classes. We have done this with the Grade 6 group and it helps them to see that this magazine can be useful. The article we will share this month is “it’s not just a rumour” (February 2014). It is always a good topic to discuss with students. Perhaps other teachers might like to try it too.

Jan

finishing touch I loved Cassandra Shaw’s “finishing touch” column in February. In an interview on Oprah she asked a guest what the greatest gift his mother had given him was. His reply: “that her eyes lit up every time she saw me.” I too feel this way when I see my precious daughter now aged

subscribe to our newsletter and win Our wins have moved online. Please subscribe to our newsletter and enter our weekly competitions.

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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 2014

5

upfront with paul

other people’s children –

we know best When it comes to parenting, who is the true expert? By PAUL KERTON

p

icture Nigel, the hapless early caveman struggling with the concept of fire. Now if some alpha male – Brett – hadn’t known best, intervened and said, “give me the damn sticks, I’ll get the fire going” then we would all probably still be wandering around today, covered in duvets trying our best to keep warm.

It’s a natural human survival instinct that we each think we know best, especially when it comes to children. This is not altogether true, but what is true is that we each think we know best for our own children, depending on our religion, culture, ethics and family traditions. And the way in which we were individually brought up.

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March 2014

Clearly this is not altogether true either; witness the mother who fed her daughter nothing but chicken nuggets from McDonald’s for 15 years before the daughter fell over and almost died of renal failure. Or the couple that thought it a good idea, while drunk, to film their four year olds having a brutal fistfight and post it on YouTube. There are a million examples of parents who thought they knew best, but who knew the square root of nothing.

Luckily, most of us get the child-rearing right or at least muscle through on this side of the line between right and wrong. A wise friend once described child-rearing as “a series of near misses” in that it only takes a lack of concentration for a nanosecond and the child has rolled off the deck, fallen

into the pool, eaten the rat poison, picked up the carving knife... just check out the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.

But there is always something about other people’s children that will irritate other parents. The way they eat a meal, the way they dress, what they are allowed to watch on TV, how late they stay up, how they behave in public – every parameter of a child’s life is scrutinised and judged according to that adult’s own level of “knowing best”. You can see other parents looking on in public and sucking air through their teeth thinking, “I’d never let my Mary wear those shorts” or, my personal favourite, “can’t they control that child?” when a toddler is throwing a wobbler. This is a mixture of self-appointed superiority, snobbery and the thinking: “we

know best”. As you know, I write about parenting all the time and am supposed to know better than most, but I am not immune to having the finger pointed: “he doesn’t do this” and “he’s bad at that” and the extremely upsetting, “have you seen his driving?”

The thing is, other people’s children are not our children (thank goodness). We each can only do our best whether we know best or not and, for me, if you can get a child from zero to their teens, and more especially their twenties, with all their faculties still working, while instilling ambition, humour, a good personality and a halfway decent moral compass, then you have done your best.

Just go easy on the chicken nuggets.

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

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ILLUSTRATION: MARK VINCER

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

health

hooked on

ILLUSTRATION: shutterstock.com

s

eafood is a healthy and popular choice for many of us. Children are encouraged to eat fish at least twice a week, not only because it’s a great source of lean protein, but also because it provides vitamins and minerals essential for growth and development. Fatty fish, such as salmon, has additional health benefits because it’s the best source of omega-3 fatty acids in the ocean. We need these essential fats in our diet for brain development and other critical functions.

So, fish is good for us, just as long as we avoid the choking hazard of bones and we’re mindful of the toxins present in some seafood. This is where things get a bit tricky. Fatty fish, which is the main source of omega-3 fatty acids, often has high levels of toxins, such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

“These toxins can be particularly harmful to children’s growing bodies and rapidly developing brains,” says Leigh-Ann Silber, a dietician practicing in Joburg who has

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fish wise

Marc de Chazal describes the health benefits of fish for children, what types to eat, and other important factors to consider. a special interest in children’s nutrition.

“When we eat seafood loaded with contaminants, we store these pollutants in our bodies, which build up over time.

Young children and pregnant women are particularly sensitive to these contaminants, because they can be transferred across the placenta and through breast milk. Mercury and PCBs can negatively affect cognitive development, motor skills, reproductive organs and other critical developmental functions in children,” adds Silber.

For safer fish options with the least mercury, it’s advisable to look lower in

the food web and to avoid the larger fish.

Good local examples are anchovies and sardines. It’s also a good idea to serve a variety of seafood to reduce the likelihood of regular exposure to contaminated fish.

“If your children will go for it, try them on oily fish such as salmon, sardines, pilchards and tuna twice a week, but we need to be careful of the sodium content in tinned fish,” says Silber. “Fresh and frozen fish are both great. To reap the best benefits, I recommend that you bake, grill, poach, steam or stir-fry your fish.”

We have explored less than 5% of our oceans, but we’ve still managed to overfish many species. So in a concerted effort to improve the conservation of seafood and to help us consume fish with a clearer conscience, the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) encourages us to question what we’re eating, where it comes from and how it was caught or farmed. They’ve made it really easy for us by listing seafood according to best choice, such as South African offshore trawled hake; seafood we should think twice about buying, such as prawns; and then fish we should not buy because the species are either unsustainable or illegal to sell here.

You can find these lists at wwf.org.za/ sassi or simply text the name of the fish in question to 079 499 8795 and you’ll receive a message telling you to “eat up”, “think twice” or “hit the brakes”. Also look out for the MSC ecolabel endorsing wildcaptured fisheries’ products.

March 2014

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pregnancy news

the right fit Your body changes and does all sorts of crazy things before and after the birth of your child. MARINA ZIETSMAN looks at the science of shopping for maternity and breast-feeding bras.

“A good nursing and breast-feeding bra can make all the difference to a nursing mom, by providing support, improving comfort and making breast-feeding easier and more accessible,” says Roland Bouttell of Carriwell SA, a leading international maternity and breast-feeding lingerie company.

He adds that a new and expecting mom should keep in mind that she will need a variety of bras for different uses and occasions, depending on what stage of her pregnancy or breast-feeding she is in. There are three important features that go into choosing a good bra: fit, function and fashion.

fit the mould You’ll experience weight gain, an expanding rib cage and, later in pregnancy, mammary glands that are preparing to make milk for your baby. The size of a nursing breast can fluctuate many times during the day, and as much as two cup sizes in between feeds, so it is important to take this into consideration when choosing a bra. The golden rule as to when to get your first maternity bra, is if your current bra becomes too tight. Ideally, a woman will get her first

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March 2014

nursing bras during the final stage of pregnancy – around 38 weeks. “For this stage, the focus is on comfort. She will be looking to purchase at least two non-underwire nursing bras. Supportive fabrics such as microfibre that allow for stretch and easy care are the best choices. Seamless fabric (seamless microfibre) will also be more comfortable as seams can often irritate sore, cracked or sensitive nipples,” says Bouttell.

the expert’s tips for fitting the right bra • A nursing bra cup should always be comfortable and not too tight, providing support while not squashing the breast tissue.

• Fabric, especially for a newly nursing mom, should allow for breast change.

• Bands should be snug but not tight, and support the breasts from the back rather than pulling down on the shoulders.

• Once breast-feeding is established, a woman can use an underwire bra for daytime wear, however a non-underwire bra is highly recommended, especially for sleeping.

function is key Some nursing bras open from snaps or zippers at the centre or below the cup, while others open at the top of the cup. There are soft-cup bras designed to be lifted above the breasts or pushed to the side. Since all openings have their benefits, a drop-cup with a one-handed release clasp/ mechanism is definitely the preferred style. More important is the ease of opening, and the quality and strength of the clip. “The bra will be opened countless times. So, it is very important that the mom is able to unfasten and fasten the bra easily, and preferably one-handed, since she will often be doing so with her hands full,” says Bouttell. Other indicators to take note of include choosing a quality bra that is well stitched, has good quality elastics that will wash well and wide straps to support heavier breasts.

fashion Maternity bras don’t need to be matronly. You can choose from various makes and manufacturers, and still feel like a woman and not a nursemaid, as long as you keep functionality and fit as part of the criteria.

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photograph: shutterstock.com

choosing the correct bra

c prepare for

takeoff

The thought of an upcoming

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

flight with your baby might be keeping you up at night. But, a little prep work, resourcefulness and patience may help to improve your experience.

By CASSANDRA SHAW

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ertain that her five-month-old son would be “screeching like a banshee… not sleeping, not eating – just being a general gremlin” and that everyone on board would nominate her and her husband as “prime candidates for Worst Parents of the Year prize”, Irene Walker was not looking forward to flying overseas with her child. But, despite her worries, she found that it was much easier than she’d imagined. “There was plenty of white noise to lull [him] to sleep.”

Sarah Williams had a similar experience the first time she flew with her daughter, Lucy, who was one month old at the time. Yet, 10 months later, when they decided to fly again, the experience was a bit trickier. Lucy had difficulty sleeping and the bassinet was too small. Boredom also set in, and Sarah and her husband had to take turns walking Lucy up and down the plane or playing with the tap in the bathroom to keep her entertained. But, in spite of these difficulties, they survived – thanks to the help of other passengers, and by making use of the things they had brought along and found around them.

Flying with young children is not always easy, and everyone’s experiences are usually different, but as long as you’re prepared and take things as they come, you will survive your flight. In the hopes of putting your mind at ease and preparing you for any turbulence ahead, both Sarah and Irene have offered some helpful pointers for the trip.

what surprised them most?

• How kind, helpful and understanding complete strangers can be.

• That their airline did not have purified water or any water that reached boiling point on board.

• How well a young baby can sleep.

• How much patience they had as mothers.

best for baby

tips for takeoff Check ahead Know what you can bring on board and what the airline will provide in terms of a baby meal, milk, seating, bedding and entertainment.

You can bring food and milk for your baby, but you may have to taste it at security.

Pack smart and keep organised Make sure to have a well-packed nappy bag that includes incidentals: something for privacy while breastfeeding, a dummy, toys and comfort items. Pack something new to grab their attention and some old favourites that remind them of home. Just don’t go overboard as space is a commodity, and “more” doesn’t always make things easier. Also, know where your stuff is at all times and keep your belongings organised. This helps at security and onboard.

Time to shine You don’t have to dress up as a purple dinosaur, but try singing softly to them.

Comfort and practicality Keep them in comfortable clothing, and if they’re crawling, make sure it’s something you don’t mind getting dirty. A change of clothes and something for them to sleep in can also help. Be aware of their routine when you book your flight. Give them something to drink or a dummy to suck on for takeoff and landing, to help with air pressure, and give them lots of cuddles.

Everyday issues Most airlines are accommodating.

If your bottle is dirty, ask the flight attendant to clean it for you. Although it’s cramped, there are usually nappy changing facilities in the bathroom.

Don’t stress Relax and take things as they come.

Also, don’t stress about grouchy passengers – most airlines supply earplugs anyway.

March 2014

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dealing with difference

left of centre Left-handed children face a world that is wired to be right-handed.

a

s a left-hander growing up in the late 80s and early 90s, I don’t remember much fuss being made about my “difference”. I do remember some teachers would place me on the lefthand side of a desk pairing so I wouldn’t bump elbows with my right-handed classmates. I also remember it hurt when I tried to use their scissors.

I mostly remember how Nicholas Waring, a fellow lefty in my primary school years, used to write like a “weirdo”. Imagine Nicholas, being told to “face the front”, with his wrist curved over and around his words in order to stay a precious few centimetres ahead of the sentence so as not to smudge the ink and to have a clear view of what he was writing. If he was left to his own devices he would sit with the left-hand side of his body over his workbook, which lay on its right-hand side.

It sounds involved, but that’s because he was a left-hander trying to develop in a right-hander’s world.

I’m not sure why I didn’t do what Nicholas did. I think I might have been all too aware of my difference and forced myself to replicate the right-handers surrounding me who wrote “straight up”, because goodness knows I didn’t want to be different at the age of seven, eight, nine, 10...

Worldwide, about 10% to 13% of the total population is left-handed, says Joburgbased occupational therapist Kathryn Nish.

But a rather hands-on, right-handed mom to a lefty, Tracy van der Merwe, notes that “Four years ago Denise Pape did a South African classroom study and found that in the five-year-old group there was 25% lefthandedness. There is a genetic component to handedness so, the more lefties there are, the more there will be.”

challenging times He cannot do the tasks fast enough… his work smudges and doesn’t look great… he feels uncomfortable with some tasks and does not want to do them again…

He is different, and children don’t like different. As the majority of the world’s population is right-handed, the challenges that left-handers face are numerous. Righthanded people don’t have to think too hard about picking up a pen and writing as it flows comfortably from left to right. Just so, it is comfortable for the lefty to go from right to left but that’s not going to happen in the western world.

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There is a genetic component to handedness so, the more lefties there are, the more there will be.

The following details the classic features of the left-handed child’s challenges. ergonomic The child may not have the correct equipment and knowledge of the correct positioning at their desk. teaching method Many teachers may not be aware of the correct teaching method for letter formation, and worksheets and activities may not be presented and taught correctly. writing from left to right Lefties have to push when they write causing strain on the hand, wrist and shoulder as they squeeze the pen hard to prevent their fingers from slipping down the pen or pencil. wrist-hooking This occurs in order to see their work as they write and to prevent smudging. Hooking places pressure on the wrist and can cause compression of the nerves, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome.

It may cause fatigue and a slow pace of writing. emotional Feeling different and being slow to finish work, possibly causes feelings of failure and unworthiness.

Nish has had a left-handed boy in occupational therapy for one and a half years. “He had a low self-esteem, struggled to make friends and was shy and mistrustful of others. He was encouraged to use his right hand over his left, even though he was showing clear left-hand preferences at about five years of age.” Though this should no longer be happening, Nish still finds children are forced to change their natural preference.

“This requires education and compromise to ensure that the best functional outcome for the child is achieved.” Forcing a child to

change their natural hand preference does not change their brain dominance and so it will affect concentration, memory, spatial, speech, reading, writing and fine motor (handwriting) skills.

different, not abnormal Clare Winter is a left-handed primary school teacher who models with both her left- and right-hand when teaching handwriting. “However, this is not the norm so more emphasis needs to be placed on this during teacher training.” Nish sees Clare’s method as a wonderful way to both model and normalise left-handedness.

“The sooner teachers accommodate lefthanded students, the sooner acceptance and awareness will reign.”

“A simple adaptation of the teaching methods and presentation of information would make a huge difference to the lefties in the classroom,” says Nish. Through gross motor activities, 3D and 2D perceptual games and finally paper-based activities, the left-handed boy Nish was working with resolved his spatial perceptual difficulties, is far more confident, is able to correctly orientate his letters and now even has a couple of friends on the playground.

do more “Put yourself in the shoes of a lefty in order to understand the struggles they experience every day. Help them with the things you can, and show empathy where you cannot. Attend or facilitate a workshop at your child’s school, where all of these things are discussed,” says Tracy. If your left-handed child is experiencing serious

setbacks, seek professional assistance from an occupational therapist, but if you start with some of these points you could already be making a difference to your lefthanded learner’s day.

• Make sure the appropriate learning tools are being used as this will make fine motor tasks easier: left-handed scissors; a left-handed sharpener, if they are experiencing difficulties sharpening with a right-handed one; thin workbooks, so that they can rest their hands on the page and start close to the margin; a chart showing lefthanded letter formation; and an incline board and non-smudge pens or pencils.

• Position their work to the right of a table as this will decrease the wristhooking that occurs and the problems associated with it.

• Demonstrate left-handed letter formation with your left hand so that the child can model you and see the actual flow of writing.

• Teach the correct progression in art projects, which is right to left when colouring and painting, so they stay within the lines and don’t smudge their work.

• Left-handed children should also learn to progress correctly in cutting, which is in a clockwise direction (right-handers cut anti-clockwise).

• Support your left-handed child by advocating for them and teaching them how to advocate for themselves.

• Ensure that the basics are in place, namely equipment and positioning.

• Use a special grip on the pencil to help the fingers relax and not grip so tightly or slip down the pencil.

• When copying a letter, put that letter at the top of a page or on the right-hand side so they don’t have to lift their hand while copying.

• Symmetry drawings flipped to the other side of the page means the lefty won’t have to lift their hands while trying to complete the task.

• As a right-hander teaching skills such as knitting, fastening shoelaces or using cutlery correctly – place yourself opposite the child and let them copy you. If she copies while facing you she is learning the left-handed way.

To purchase left-handed learning tools, visit lefthandlearning.co.za magazine cape town

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

LUCILLE KEMP offers some points to help them develop soundly.

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March 2014

11

your child’s life

is your child

camp ready?

CHRISTINA CASTLE pitches the question and discovers that, more often than not, our children are ready to head off to camp long

y parting words to my 16 year old were: “Be sensible.

Drink lots of water. Use sunscreen.” He was about to embark on a three-week journey into manhood, deep in the Cederberg mountains. Yes, my lip was quivering and I was desperately fighting back the tears. “Ja, ja, I know. I’ll be fine, Mom,” he reassured me as he slung his backpack over his shoulder, gave me a fat hug and disappeared onto a bus. And I knew he would be. Years of overnight camps with the school, tours of sorts, sleepovers and holidays away with friends had prepared him (and me) for this journey.

From the age of nine my children have been exposed to sleepover camps with the school. Camps are an annual event.

Each year as the children mature, the independence, the social and physical skills required are challenged just a little bit more. What starts as an overnight stay in a cabin in Grade 4 quickly becomes a fend-for-yourself few days under the watchful eye of the teachers in Grade 7

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and eventually a man-making three weeks in the wild in Grade 10. While they are fun and physical, the school is acutely aware of the varying stages of physical, social and emotional readiness across the age groups. Their precamp preparation with the children addresses all aspects of readiness and the skills, responsibilities and anxieties that go with it.

However, the reality of sleepover camps is not quite so textbook. Some children quite simply do not sleep out.

The separation is just too much. Fears and other anxieties kick in. Or they just don’t operate well out of their comfort zones. While children should never feel pressured to go to camp, schools do expect your child to attend their camps; and they are more than equipped with the experience and expertise to help your child over this hurdle.

Despite the wobbles and anxieties, school and commercial camps equip our children with skills they will carry for life.

The independence, confidence, social

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

m

before we are ready to let them go.

skills and self-discipline it builds are priceless, and strengthens the more your child is exposed to these environments.

While experts say the ideal age to kickoff your child’s camp career is between eight and 10 years old, your child will let you know soon enough if he’s ready or not.

let him decide if he wants to go to camp It’s not a case of sign him up and ask him later. Your child first needs to express an interest in going away to camp. While you may plant the seed, allow him to make the decision himself as to whether he goes or not. Even the most camp-hardy child may not want to go to camp. Maybe he just wants to take time out at home after a busy school term. The decision ultimately should be his.

choose a camp that is appropriate While many children love the idea of learning to water ski, how many are really keen to do it intensely for a week? Ok, I’m all for “you never know until you try”, but you and your child need to be realistic about their genuine interests and staying power, if choosing a camp aimed at a specific activity. Not to mention the fact that a full day of waterskiing can be exhausting even for the most experienced water-skier.

Many camps offer children a variety of activities – art in the morning, abseiling in the afternoon and singing at sunset.

Your child is guaranteed to find his feet and dabble in activities he has never considered before. Varied activities are enriching and provide a great environment to make new friends.

What’s more, camps often vary in length.

Know what is right for your child. Be sure

that your child is comfortable with being away from home for that amount of time.

manage your child’s expectations It has been found that children who had positive expectations of camp, had good experiences at camp. Take away the mystery of the camp. Go over the itinerary in detail with him. While new and exciting experiences are a given, discuss the dayto-day goings on positively to overcome any anxiety. However, don’t oversell the camp or make it into something that it quite clearly is not.

friends or no friends?

It’s always easier to enter a new situation when you have a couple of mates on your side. That said, camp is a breeding ground for new friendships. Existing friendships may restrict the opportunity to get to know others. It’s often too easy to team up with someone you know. If your child is going to camp with a friend, make sure they know to give each other space and are comfortable with each other when they decide to team up with someone new.

be upfront about his fears and anxieties Don’t be afraid to share your child’s camp fears and anxieties with those in charge.

They will want to know exactly what to expect. Remember they are experts at this. Don’t think it’s just your child who is feeling uneasy; there are plenty of others in exactly the same situation.

help your child prepare for camp Include your child in the camp preparation process. He will feel more confident about heading off if he’s been involved right from the beginning – from decision-making to packing his own bag. While it’s wise for you to oversee exactly what’s going into the bag, let him follow the kit list and take responsibility for it. At least he’ll know where to find his undies (not that he’s likely to change them for the duration of the camp. The same goes for the toothbrush).

Bags are packed and he’s ready to go. No matter what age they are, sending our children off to camp does get the lip quivering – yours more than his. Hang in there; the benefits are worth it.

And for the record, my 16 year old returned from his man-making adventure in one piece, a little sunburnt, very much on the nose, hydrated, hungry and hairy.

I gave him another fat hug and my eyes began to water. Yes, I did miss him terribly, but he really did stink.

Visit childmag.co.za/content/campready-ct for a few ideas on overnight and day camps in your area.

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March 2014

13

education

school matters Your child needs to start Grade 1, but all the rules, laws and paperwork involved drive many parents up the wall. MARINA ZIETSMAN puts the basics into context.

The Department of Basic Education has clear guidelines on how to register your child for Grade 1. You should apply at a public school in the year prior to that in which your child needs to start. Find out from the schools in your area when registration opens and applications close.

Applicants must be five years old turning six, or older by 30 June the following year.

If your child is younger than the required age, and you still wish to enrol them, you can apply to the principal for exemption.

Such an application must be accompanied by a school readiness report, which can be supplied by a psychologist, or a progress report from a qualified educator. If your application is unsuccessful, you must be given the reasons in writing. You are also free to appeal this decision with the Member of the Executive Council (the MEC of a province is the cabinet of the provincial government). In the Western Cape it’s known as the Provincial Cabinet.

Independent schools can also make provision for under-age learners “if it can be shown that exceptional circumstances exist, which necessitate the admission of an underage learner because admission would be in his or her best interest”.

However, most independent schools prefer

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to admit learners to Grade 1 who are six years old in January, in the start of the school year. Schools start accepting learners at the beginning of the preceding year, and you should get an answer in writing from them. Follow up with the school if you don’t.

Diane Fraser, marketer at St Peter’s Boys School, an independent school in Joburg, says to ensure a place in an independent school, parents should “fill in the application forms soon after the child’s birth”. Des Hugo,

must be registered with the Provincial Education Department, and public schools must be established by the MEC for education in the province. You can check with the Provincial Education Department if a school is registered before you make any payments. You’ll need the following forms to register at a public school: 1) an application from the school, to be collected from the school, 2) an official birth certificate, and 3) an immunisation card. If your child is not a South African

Contact the school and make sure you know how things work and what you’ll need to provide. junior school headmistress at St Mary’s School, an independent school in Waverley, Joburg, agrees with this and adds: “Parents should consider applying for the Grade R year or at the school’s preprimary facility they’re interested in. This becomes more important if the family has no previous links to the school.”

You are free to choose whether to register your child at a public school or at an independent school. Public schools are state controlled and independent schools are privately owned. Independent schools

citizen, you’ll need: 1) a study permit, and 2) a temporary or permanent residence permit or proof that you have applied for permission to stay in South Africa.

in the zone Feeder zones do exist for public schools, and these are established by the Department of Basic Education in consultation with the school governing body (SGB). Feeder zones aren’t necessarily geographically adjacent to each other, so find out from the school

you’re interested in if you fall in theirs.

The main objective of feeder zones is to indicate to schools which children should be prioritised for admission. Children outside the feeder zone of a school are allowed to apply, but will be placed on a waiting list if needed. The preference order of admission to schools is: 1) learners whose parents live in the feeder zone, at their own address or at their employer’s address, 2) learners whose parents’ work address is in the feeder zone, and 3) other learners, based on a first-come, first-served basis. “Parents often think that they live in the area and therefore are zoned for the school and need only apply the year prior to the start of school. Zoning only applies to public schools and not to independent schools,” says Fraser.

a foot in the door Parents must be careful not to assume that having an older brother or sister in a preferred school would mean automatic admission for younger siblings. Junita Hensel, secretary at Sea Point Primary, a public school in Cape Town, says, “siblings do get preference, and children of old boys and old girls are looked at ‘favourably’.” Check with your school of choice that these criteria do exist. Fraser says, “Each child would need his or her own

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

what the law says

application form to be submitted regardless of whether a sibling has already been applied for. Siblings often do get preference, but only if all the correct paperwork and applications were also timeous.” Also, don’t assume that sister and brother schools have the same admissions policy, and make sure schools are in fact sister/brother schools. A reader of Child magazine wrote about her disappointment when her daughter was not admitted to an all-girls’ school. Her son attended an all-boys’ school, which she believed was the brother school to the all-girls’ school she had applied at.

However, further investigation showed that the schools have similar names, as they’re both situated in the same suburb, but they are, in fact, not a brother/sister school. Hugo says, “There is variation in the admission policies of schools. In many cases, siblings do get preference, as do children of staff members and alumni. There is often no formal reciprocal arrangement with brother/ sister schools, but schools do try to keep families together, if places are available.”

the bottom line Most schools feel that parents leave their child’s registration too late. In order to avoid any administrative red tape, register your child at the school of your choice well in advance. Contact the school and make sure you know how things work and what you’ll need to provide. Don’t base any decisions on assumptions. Even if your child has the right to an education and has laws protecting him, it’s imperative that parents adhere to the few simple rules regarding school admissions in order to have their child start their school career hassle-free.

resources • education.gov.za • isasa.org • erp.org.za

magazine cape town

your child’s rights Missing birth certificate Learners must be accepted unconditionally, but a copy must be obtained from the Department of Home Affairs.

No immunisation card Learners must be admitted, but thoroughly advised by the school on how to get immunised.

Paying school fees It is illegal for schools to require a copy of a utility bill to determine whether the parent or guardian can afford to pay school fees. The law says, “no learner may be refused admission to a public school on the grounds that his/her parent/ caregiver is unable to pay, or has not paid school fees that have been lawfully determined.” Parents who cannot pay school fees are urged to consult with the school about applying for exemption from fees. Schools can, however, take parents to court if they refuse to pay school fees, but only after the exemption criteria have been applied and the parent is still liable to pay such fees. The learner must remain in school while the case is on.

Registration fees Certain schools will charge you a fee when you register.

Admission tests Public schools are not allowed to administer any tests related to the admission of a learner.

Full classes Schools cannot refuse to admit a learner from their feeder zone.

If full-class capacity has been reached, it’s the responsibility of the school and the heads of department to ensure all learners find a place at another school. Fee-paying schools have the right to limit the amount of learners

per class to the maximum set by the school. According to the Department of Basic Education, “The right not to charge school fees is limited to the schools that have been declared ‘no-fee schools’. The names of these schools are published in the Provincial Gazette and the criteria to determine the ‘no-fee schools’ is based on the economic level of the community around the school.”

Race, religion and language No discrimination will be tolerated regarding these points. The same goes for pregnant learners and those that are HIV positive. Learners are expected to wear the official school uniform, without any additions to the uniform that are not in accordance with the regulations. Ask the school you want to register with for their code of conduct to establish what is permitted and what isn’t.

aware of a family’s intention to leave one term prior to the date of leaving,” she adds.

Special education needs Public schools must admit learners with special education needs, where it is reasonably practical, and schools are encouraged to make the necessary arrangements as far as possible to make facilities accessible to such learners.

If a school cannot provide this, the principal and the school must refer the case to the Department of Basic Education to have the learner admitted to a suitable public school. Hensel says Sea Point Primary does accommodate children with special needs, but “on condition that the child receives adequate remedial support and has come from a remedial school.”

Waiting lists Before the school year starts, the school and the Department of Basic Education must find a place for children on a public school waiting list.

Fraser suggests you apply to at least two to three schools. “If parents have not heard anything by mid-year, prior to the start, the parents should contact the school for updated information.”

Hugo adds: “Apply to as many schools as possible in the area you live, especially if you do not have other children already at a school, or are not a staff member or an alumni.” Hugo says if your child is not on a waiting list, they will never have an opportunity to be considered. She adds that schools are unable to inform parents on how long they will be on a waiting list, as the school only fills places from the list when families relocate or leave the school. “Generally, schools become

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animal appreciation

more than just a pet There is a lot that children can learn about animals. There is also a lot they can learn from

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them. Tamlyn Vincent explores the many benefits that spending time with animals can offer.

oey, our mini dachshund is defleaing my son, causing fits of giggles. He buries his hand up his sleeve, driving Zoey crazy and making her nibble even harder. Reggie, our other sausage, tries to nuzzle his way in, but he’s just looking for a scratch.

Laughter and enjoyment aren’t the only benefits of having two dogs share our home. My son throws balls for them, but they never relinquish their prize.

They’ve never seen the point in giving back the ball.

So to reclaim it, we have to play chase. And, of course, the dogs are useful at mealtimes. My son has quickly learnt that they’ll happily eat anything he doesn’t want, including tomatoes.

can also reduce blood pressure and decrease stress. A dog’s ability to help with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has seen trauma dogs being used in crisis situations like school shootings. And because children often respond well to animals, they are used in a variety of therapy treatments.

Children can learn about animals from books, or wildlife films. Through animal interactions, children can learn empathy and responsibility, while learning about these animals. While this is apparent with pets, it also becomes clear when children visit animal shelters or wildlife sanctuaries. There is also knowledge to be gained from spending time at certain zoos and aquariums.

Spending time with animals has many benefits for children.

As animals don’t judge, children are often likely to talk to pets, improving self-confidence. Dr Marieanna le Roux, chair of Pets as Therapy in Cape Town, says this quality in animals can improve reading skills as children who are struggling with reading can practise with their dog.

There are health benefits as well. Walking or running with dogs means more exercise. Interacting with pets

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Owning a pet can develop a nurturing instinct in children, says Dr Zee Akoojee, a Cape Town vet. Children develop a caring attitude and self-confidence from looking after pets. Children also need to learn the importance of caring for something without receiving anything in return, says Akoojee. Some of the responsibilities of having a pet include making sure there is always fresh water, cleaning up after the pet, feeding it and taking it for walks. So, before getting a pet, make sure your children are ready.

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

four-legged friends animal aid

Teach them that a pet is for life, advises Akojee, and can’t be ignored when it’s no longer cute. “The entire family should be on board,” says Akoojee. Work together to find a pet that suits your family’s lifestyle, considering the space you have, the time and energy you can dedicate to the pet and remembering the basic costs and vet’s bills.

Children who don’t have their own dog could walk dogs for friends or neighbours, letting them interact with animals and exercise, while teaching them responsibility. Another option for families with pets is to visit retirement villages or hospitals. Families can sign up to organisations like Pets as Therapy, which takes dogs, and a few cats, to visit these places. “When you see the faces of the people you’re visiting, you know you’ve done something good,” says Le Roux. The pets like the attention too. However, Le Roux says that not all dogs like getting patted, and not all people want to be visited, so children should go with an adult and only take their dog if it has the right temperament.

shelters and sanctuaries Children should learn about caring for people, animals and the environment, so they develop a caring, socially minded attitude that will stay with them, says Janet Legemaate, education officer at Durban’s Kloof and Highway SPCA. Visiting animal shelters or wildlife sanctuaries teaches children about the needs of animals. Children also learn about conservation and what it means to give back.

Parents should show children what shelters need to care for animals and together think of ways to help, suggests Legemaate. Depending on the shelter, children need to be a certain age to volunteer, but there are other ways to help.

“Bring dog biscuits to feed the dogs,” says Legemaate, or buy a bag of food. Look out for educational opportunities at wildlife sanctuaries and shelters or visit them as a family.

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aquariums, zoos and game reserves animal books for children Toddlers How Do Dinosaurs Love Their Dogs? by Jane Yolen – T-Rexes model both good and bad petcare behaviours. (Blue Sky Press, 2010) Tails Are Not For Pulling by Elizabeth Verdick – The book is about showing children how to love pets gently. (Free Spirit Publishing, 2005) Peek-a-Boo Pets by Francesca Ferri – Play peek-aboo with pets. (Barron’s Educational Series, 2009) Preschoolers A Home for Dixie by Emma Jackson – A story about an adopted puppy. (Harper Collins, 2008) Mr King’s Incredible Journey by David du Plessis – An introduction to a range of creatures from South Africa’s coast. (Random House Struik, 2011) Early graders Dear Greenpeace by Simon James – Emily writes to Greenpeace for advice on how to care for a whale in her pond. (Walker Books, 2008) My First Book of Southern African Mammals by Peter Apps – An introduction to a cross-section of mammals. (Random House Struik, 2000) Preteens and teens The Underneath by Kathi Appelt – A calico cat, about to have kittens, befriends a hound. (Simon and Schuster, 2008) White Dolphin by Gill Lewis – Kara and Felix have to work together to save a dolphin calf, and the reef in the bay of their home town. (Oxford University Press, 2012)

My son was terrified the first time we went to see dolphins.

He thought they might jump out of the water and land on him. When he realised what they were he was enthralled, as are thousands of other children who pass through the education programme at Durban’s Seaworld, which teaches children about marine life and conservation. At the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa, children can see reptiles, birds and mammals, and become a junior nature conservator. They can also see animals in environments that simulate their natural habitats, a move encouraged by the environment enrichment programme followed at this facility.

Visiting zoos and aquariums gives children the chance to meet animals up close, says Angeliné Schwan, communications officer at the National Zoological Gardens.

Many zoos and aquariums treat animals with care and run conservation, rescue and rehabilitation programmes.

But these types of facilities can come under criticism for keeping animals in captivity, or mistreating them. As parents, it’s important to be aware of these issues and to consider and question what’s in the animals’ best interests.

Schwan recommends that before visiting a facility, check that they are a member of PAAZAB (African Association of Zoos and Aquaria; visit zoosafrica.com), which requires members to comply with certain standards. “Word of mouth is a good way to find out about the best places to visit,” says Schwan. At game reserves, animals are given free rein.

No matter how you choose to introduce your children to animals, they will benefit from the interaction. When my son was born, and the dogs still didn’t know what he was, we looked forward to the day they would be friends.

I think they are all on their way to being lifelong buddies, especially if they keep eating his vegetables for him.

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resource

happy

campers Sleep under the stars at a great family-friendly camping spot not too far from the Mother City.

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By LUCILLE KEMP

amping is a great pastime for young and old, outdoor enthusiasts and even those who love their creature comforts. If it’s your first time venturing out with your children, the key to a stress-free trip is to be prepared for everything and not to shy away from getting your children involved. Get them to help pack the car, choose the toys they want to take with them and set up the camp site.

Consider providing your children with a torch or glowstick for the night jaunts, and create a few rules to ensure no one gets lost or injured during the trip. Take slops for use in the communal bathrooms and a door mat to place at the entrance of your tent to keep most of the grass and dirt outside. Also take insect-repellent sprays and wristbands to help ensure a peaceful night’s sleep.

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champagne farm, greyton Champagne camp is situated on a fruit farm, 15km outside Greyton on the banks of the Sonderend River. The camp site also offers a wonderful swimming hole in the slow-moving streams. The grassed camp site is very private and the river is navigable for a few hundred metres so pack some lilos and a canoe. The six sites are level and the ablution is basic with two hot showers and two flushing toilets. There is also a small kitchen. Electricity points are available; just remember your lead of 20 to 30 metres. There are ample braai facilities on site, as well as braai wood for sale, but you are advised to also take your own. The trees are still very young, so make sure you pack umbrellas or gazebos, hats and sunscreen. The road leading up to the farm is suitable for bakkies and cars. activities There are braai areas, and a safe river to swim and fish in. Canoes or boats are allowed on the river for exploration, as long as they are not motorised. For the keen mountain biker, there are various routes to choose from and you are more than welcome to explore the farm on the veld trails. Champagne, being part of the greater Donkerhoek Conservancy, offers opportunities to spot antelope, birds along the river and fynbos. nearby attractions Greyton and Genadendal are located 15km from the farm. Greyton Tourism has info on historic Genadendal and very good hiking trails, as well as festivals to look forward to. family-friendly factor The river is safe to swim in. open to the public All year round best time to visit From October to the end of April directions Supplied on booking contact 072 508 0135 or champagne@heideland.co.za

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simonskloof mountain retreat, montagu Camping here is down-to-earth and ecofriendly. The camp sites are spread around a large 230-year-old oak tree and little mountain stream. Most sites are very private, shaded and have vehicle access and their own water points offering spring water. Simonskloof Mountain Retreat is far away from the buzz of the city and all is connectivity, with no electricity or cellphone reception, yet it is still reachable by ordinary car and it’s a safe environment for children. If you need the urban conveniences, they are a “short” and scenic 45-minute drive from Montagu. Alternatively, there’s a good farm shop just 10km down the gravel road, which offers top-notch boerewors. There are seven individual private camp sites, pit-braais at all sites (wood for sale, but take your own grid), ecofriendly compost toilets (take your own loo paper) and bush-style showers with water heated by a wood-fired, donkey boiler.

There is ice for sale in the main holiday season only, just enquire in advance. The walk to the farm dam takes a mere two minutes, but no fishing is allowed. Simonskloof recently started offering two-man tents for rent. No loud music or generators are allowed. activities Hiking trails that start at your tent door; these include multi-day hikes.

Simonskloof Mountain Retreat was voted Best Adventure, Outdoor and Ecotourism Business in the Cape Winelands District Municipality Mayoral Awards 2012. nearby attractions Wilderness trekking and hiking, mountain biking, abseiling (rappelling) and kloofing (canyoneering). You must book in advance. There is a zip-slide just 15km from Simonskloof. family-friendly factor You can take your pets. best time to visit All year round directions Via Hex River Valley it is approximately a 210km or 2,5 hour drive. Via Montagu it is approximately a 240km or 3 hour drive. Details are on their website. contact Visit simonskloof.com

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Simonskloof Mountain Retreat, Montagu

March 2014

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resource

Glenoakes, Hermanus

glenoakes, hermanus The camp, situated in Upper Hemel en Aarde Valley, is private in that it is available for exclusive booking so you don’t share with any other guests. They are situated far enough for you to feel like you are in the middle of nowhere, but close enough for a weekend getaway, and as they generally don’t take bookings on a Sunday, you have a full weekend there. The camp has plenty of large trees offering shade. They have a lapa with braai facilities as well as a section under roof with a large fireplace should the weather turn. activities There is ample space for children to explore safely and run wild. There is also a large farm dam for swimming, a mountain for walks and hiking as well as routes for mountain biking. Good quality charcuterie and pork, along with other goodies, are sold on the farm. nearby attractions The Overberg is a great region to explore with wine routes to try and nature reserves to visit. Ell at Spookfontein Wine Farm, also located in the Upper Hemel en Aarde Valley, is a family-friendly, ethical eatery that recently opened. family-friendly factor They can accommodate wheelchairs as there are no steps. open to the public All year round best time to visit All year. Winter is just as much fun directions Details are available on the website and will also be sent to you when bookings are confirmed. contact 028 212 2050, info@glenoakes.co.za or visit glenoakes.co.za

knysna forest timber camping decks, knysna SANParks offers forest timber camping decks in the Knysna Lakes section of the Knysna Forest, so it feels like you’re camping with The Swiss Family Robinson. Set in a landscape of beaches and rocky headlands, shimmering lakes, green pastures and jagged mountains, the Knysna Forest Camping Decks will give your family that feeling of being one with nature. If you’re going to bundle your family into a car for five hours then this has to be where you end up – enjoying an experience far removed from everyday life at home. Boardwalks lead to the decks and are spaced just far enough from each other to ensure privacy. Make sure your food, clothes and sleeping gear are compactly packed, because you have to carry it down the boardwalk from your car, an effort made totally worth it when you wake up surrounded by a wall of green forest. There is a fireplace and a wooden counter under a small roof. The decks accommodate a three-man tent with braai and dining areas, and have electric points. Please note, it’s a small distance to walk to the hot showers in the ablution block. activities You can enjoy day walks and mountain cycle routes, which take you into the heart of the Knysna Forest, bird-watching, picnicking and scenic lookout points. family-friendly factor An unmatched, up-close experience with nature open to the public All year round best time to visit The Garden Route, without the crowds and while the weather is still warm, is best between February and April. directions Visit their website for full details. contact 044 302 5606 or visit sanparks.org

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skilpadfontein, worcester Situated at the foot of the Badsberg Mountain and on the banks of the Breede River, Skilpadfontein overlooks mountains as well as luscious vineyards; the camp site is located on the river’s edge. All sites have electrical plugs and ablution facilities nearby.

Caravans, motorhomes and tents are welcome. They have six sites, on which they allow six people and two cars each. All the sites have shade, a standard power point and a braai. There is also a communal braai area. Take your own wood and braai grid. The two ablution areas have toilets and showers with hot water. There is a kitchen area with a basin and work surface. activities The magnificent surrounds and moderate climate affords you the opportunity to swim, walk, cycle, canoe (take your own canoes), hike, fish, bird-watch and braai. nearby attractions Horse riding and wine tasting at Badsberg Wine Cellar family-friendly factor All sites have electrical points and ablution facilities nearby. open to the public All year round best time to visit In winter it sometimes gets frosty, with the surrounding mountains covered with snow; summers are generally pleasant, although some February and March days can reach 38°C or higher. directions Full details are available on the website. contact 023 344 3135, 082 419 4991, info@skilpadfontein.co.za or visit skilpadfontein.co.za

Skilpadfontein, Worcester

slanghoek mountain resort, rawsonville The camping area is situated between vineyards and there is a stream running through it.

The sites all have grass and private ablution facilities, which include a shower, basin, toilet and an electricity point. Specific sites can be booked, so if you’ve visited before and would like a specific site/s, please request this when making your booking. Some of the sites do not have shade yet, so you might want to take a gazebo or umbrella. activities On-site you will find a big lawn and playground as well as a store, coffee shop, swimming pool, trampoline, jungle gym, braai and shade, and you can enjoy fishing, horse riding and putt-putt. nearby attractions There are horse and pony stables, and a farm dam with bluegill fishing for the family to enjoy. open to the public All year round family-friendly factor Slanghoek offers pony rides for the children. A toilet and shower are located on your own private plot. best time to visit Throughout the year, though note that the hottest summer months may dry the stream directions It’s a 60-minute journey from Cape Town. Head north on the N1. Through the tunnel, turn right at the weighbridge to Rawsonville. At the first crossing turn left to Slanghoek. Drive for 10km. Slanghoek Resort is on your right-hand side. contact 023 344 3138, info@slanghoekresort.co.za or visit slanghoekresort.co.za

for different tastes These resorts have several camping spots in different parts of the country.

• sanparks.co.za – Wild Card Membership gives you unlimited access to most of Southern Africa’s premier conservation areas.

• foreversa.co.za – They have resorts in Gauteng, Limpopo, Free State, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape.

• atkvresorts.co.za – All seven their resorts have camping sites.

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books

a good read for toddlers Chickens Can’t See in the Dark

By Kristyna Litten (Published by Oxford University Press, R196) The pictures in this book will make children laugh, plus there is a message about standing up for your beliefs. Little Pippa is adamant that she wants to see in the dark. It all started when Mr Benedict told his class, “As sure as eggs is eggs, chickens can’t see in the dark.” Everyone finds the prospect hilarious, but then she reads a book and learns that carrots improve your eyesight. She immediately sets off to the farm shop to buy all their stock. Is she going to be the laughing stock of the village?

for early graders

for preteens and teens

for preschoolers Sisi Goes to School and Other Stories

By Wendy Hartmann and Joan Rankin (Published by Human & Rousseau, R150) Sisi, her family and friends are back in this delightful compilation of stories and rhyme. The five stories are: Sisi Goes to School, Sisi’s Special Sounds, Gogo’s Little Dog, Daddy’s Surprise and A Kiss For You. The book has beautiful illustrations by Joan Rankin, which compliments the sparingly written, but spot on text. It is also available in Afrikaans as Sisi Gaan Skool Toe en Ander Stories.

for us

Phapo’s Gift

By Marita van Aswegen

A Horse called Hero

By Sam Angus

What Lies Within

By Tom Vowler

(Published by Knowledge Thirst Media, R70) Ten-year-old Phapo is clever, pretty and happy. But she has a big burden to carry: her father, who she loves very much, is dying from Aids. All around her, her school friends are getting boyfriends and girlfriends. When the boys start looking at her, her grandma tells her a very special secret: Phapo has a precious, perfect fruit inside her. She alone has the power to treasure or to destroy that fruit. Phapo’s Gift is a truly South African story that teaches children about the effects of Aids and the advantages of abstinence.

(Published by Pan Macmillan, R156) London, 1940: Dodo and her little brother Wolfie do not know what has happened to their father. A cavalry officer and war hero, he has gone missing at Dunkirk. The children are evacuated to the West Country.

Alone in a wild land, they are taunted and bullied when their father is accused of desertion. Wolfie finds an orphaned foal, names him Hero, and raises him. Together they find freedom and happiness, little suspecting the dark shadow that hangs over them. But while the war took Wolfie’s hope, Hero gives him courage.

(Published by Headline Publishers, R161) Living in a remote Devon farmhouse, Anna and her family have always been close to nature. But when a convict escapes from a nearby Dartmoor prison, their isolation suddenly begins to feel more claustrophobic than free. Fearing for her children’s safety, Anna’s behaviour becomes increasingly irrational. Meanwhile, a young teacher has just started her first job, but gets brutally attacked by one of her students. As the two narratives converge, the tension builds, shattering everything you thought you knew about nature and the true meaning of family.

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parenting book

Is that My Child? The Brain Food Plan

By Dr Robin Pauc with Carina Norris (Published by Random House, R215) Dr Pauc demonstrates how nutrition and exercise can help children overcome many conditions – from dyslexia and dyspraxia to ADHD. The book includes easy-tofollow advice and information. There are recipe ideas as well as exercise and diet workbooks for parents. Pauc is a specialist in child neurology and he lectures on behalf of the prestigious Carrick Institute for postgraduate studies at Cape Canaveral.

Carina Norris is a registered nutritionist, author, journalist and consultant.

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calendar

what’s on in march

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

Your guide for what to do, where to go and who to see this month. Compiled by LUCILLE KEMP.

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FUN FOR CHILDREN – p25

ONLY FOR PARENTS – p26

Whale Spotter for Juniors workshops A series of sponsored educational whale spotter workshops.

Carmina Burana at Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts Enjoy classical music in the gardens.

bump, baby & tot in tow – p27

how to help – p27

Babies Read Books story time Sharon Geffen is at the Cape Town Mediclinic for toddler story time.

The Bookery Donate books for this NPO that builds, stocks and staffs school libraries across South Africa.

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

sat

SPECIAL EVENTS – p24 Durbanville Farm Festival Think “farm”, and you can picture home-made bread and real butter, fresh veggies from the garden, tractors, roosters and other exciting farmyard action.

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calendar

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 saturday Feast of the Grape A weekend of harvest with highlights that include wine tasting and estate restaurants preparing signature dishes.

Also enjoy bake-offs and chats about wine.

There is a Kids Country Zone. Also 2 March.

Time: 11am–7pm Saturday and 11am–6pm Sunday. Venue: D’Aria Wine Estate, M13 Tyger Valley Rd, Durbanville. Cost: R50, under 12 years old free entry, Kids Country Zone R20. Book through webtickets.co.za Hout Bay Sandcastle Competition A 3D showcase of sandcastles made by teams of all ages. There are food stalls, music and a fun park, with prizes to be won. Funds raised go to Valley Preprimary School’s Sonwabile Fund. Time: 8:30am. Venue: Hout Bay Beach.

Cost: corporate teams R900, adults R50, children R30; free for spectators. Contact: 021 790 1540 or valleykids@mweb.co.za St Cyprian’s Vintage Fair With live music, entertainment, food and beer tents, children’s activities and games, a craft market and more. Time: 11am till late.

Venue: St Cyprian’s School Campus, Gorge Rd, Oranjezicht. Cost: adults R20 and children/teenagers free. Contact: 079 505 2373 or carnival@stcyprians.co.za Muratie Harvest Festival With food, fine wine, live music and grape stomping.

Time: 11:30am. Venue: Muratie Wine Farm, Koelenhof, Stellenbosch. Cost: free entry,

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1 March – St Cyprian’s Vintage Fair

which includes a complimentary glass of wine; cellar and vineyard tours and vertical wine tasting at 12pm R50. Contact: 021 865 2330 or info@muratie.co.za

2 sunday Eikendal Weintaufe For live music, estate wines and country fare and you can taste the new Chardonnay 2014. Attractions include tractor rides, cheetah viewing, stalls, lucky draws, golfing, pony rides, grape stomping and fly-fishing. Time: 10am. Venue: Eikendal Wine Estate, Stellenbosch/Somerset West.

Cost: R30, includes a complimentary glass and Chardonnay tasting; children under 12 free. Contact: 021 855 1422 or info@ eikendal.co.za

8 saturday Barleycorn Music Festival Take a blanket and a picnic and enjoy some of the best talent Cape Town has to offer. Food and drinks

also available. Activities for children include a jumping castle, face painting and more. Time: 3pm–10pm. Venue: Maynardville Open Air Theatre, Church St, Wynberg. Cost: adults R60, members R50, students and scholars R40, under 12s free. Contact: 082 493 1564 or visit barleycorn.org.za Cape Argus Pick n Pay Tricycle and Junior Tours The Tricycle Tour is for children up to the age of 6 years old who, together with a parent or guardian on foot, can navigate an easy 1,7km ride. The Junior Tour is for children 6–12 years old. They can tackle a 2,5km, 5km, 7,5km or 10km route. Time: 8am. Venue: Youngsfield Military Base, Wynberg. Cost: R60 for 0–6 year olds, R80 for 6–12 year olds. For more info: visit juniortour.co.za Paarl Ommiberg Round the Rock Festival Visitors are given a glimpse into working wineries, and get the opportunity to pick and stomp their own grapes, enjoy tractor rides through the vineyards and test their winemaking skills. Also on offer are cooking demonstrations, art exhibitions, live entertainment, cellar tours, jumping castles, slippery slides, pony rides, face painting, children’s croquet and rides on a goats’ wagon. Also 9 March. Time: 10am–4pm daily. Venue: participating wine farms in the Paarl Wine Valley. Cost: R100 for over 18s. For more info contact: 082 787 4118 or visit ommiberg.co.za Walk Against Crime The 10km walk is held to advocate for harsher punishment for

those who rape and murder. The Deputy Minister of the Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities will collect the petition to take it to parliament.

8 March. Time: 8am. Venue: Cape Town Stadium. Cost: R30. For more info: visit worldwideevents.org/enough-is-enough.php

10 monday Infecting the City The annual public arts festival hosts new, unique and vibrant visual art, dance, music, poetry and other forms of performance art in Cape Town’s public spaces. Ends 15 March. Time: varies.

Venue: festival sites across the CBD. Cost: free. For more info: visit infectinthecity.com

14 friday Pronutro AfricanX Trail Run Teamwork forms an essential part of the trail run, as participants rely on each other’s experience and strength to complete the three-day event. Family entertainment is offered at the festival site. Ends 16 March. Time: 7am.

Venue: Festival Village, Houw Hoek Inn, Elgin, Grabouw. Cost: varies. Contact: 086 138 3591 or visit africanx.co.za

15 saturday American International School of Cape Town International Day The programme features live music, food, stalls, games and rides. Time: 11am–5pm. Venue: 42 Soetvlei Avenue, Constantia. Cost: free.

Contact: 021 713 2240 or visit aisct.org

magazine cape town

Durbanville Farm Festival For homemade bread and real butter, fresh veggies, tractors, roosters and other farmyard action.

Entertainment includes Andriëtte Norman, the Giant Pumpkin competition and the riel dancers. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Diemersdal Wine Estate, Philadelphia Rd, Durbanville. Cost: adults R30, learners R5. Contact Alida: 082 417 5473 or visit bergsigdv.co.za St Patrick’s Day Organised by Wild Clover and the South Africa/Irish Association.

Time: 10am–10pm. Venue: Wild Clover Farm, R304, Stellenbosch. Cost: adults R100 and children R50. Contact: 021 865 2248 or reservations@wildclover.co.za Wellington Wine Harvest Festival For award-winning wines, food and new entertainment venues. Time: 10am. Venues: New Fashioned Boere Bazaar, Diemersfontein; Top Chilling, Bosman Family Vineyards; Wilder as die Wildtuin, Welbedacht. Cost: adults R100, which includes a wine glass, entry pass, programme and entertainment; under 18s enter free. For more info: 021 864 2479 or visit harvestfestival.co.za

20 thursday WPPS centenary night carnival Offering games stalls, prizes, a ghost house, foefie slide and a disco for Grades 6 and 7s, and a café, book stall and beer tent.

Time: 4pm–10pm. Venue: 49 Newlands Rd, Claremont. Cost: free. Contact: 021 761 8074 or marketing@wpps.org.za

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St Joseph’s Marist College Jazz on the Lawn Young musicians can network on Human Rights Day. It is a picnic-style event with food vendors and children’s activities.

Time: 12pm–7pm. Venue: Belmont Rd, Rondebosch. Cost: adults R50, children under 12 R30. Contact: 021 685 6715, apetro@maristsj.co.za or visit maristsj.co.za

Spur Kid’s Funride at the Cape Epic Children have fun at at the Absa Cape Epic Finale on a flat, offroad course. Choose from 500m, 1,5km or 3km. For children under 12 years. Time 9am–10am. Venue: Lourensford Wine Estate, Somerset West. Cost R30–R50.

Contact: 021 884 4752, info@dirtopia.co.za or visit dirtopia.co.za

22 saturday The Vine School open day Learn more about the curriculum of this Ambleside School. Childcare is provided. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: 37 Denver Rd, Lansdowne. Contact Charlene: 021 696 3220 or info@thevineschool.org.za

29 saturday Waldorf annual fair For food, children’s entertainment, bands, games, craft stalls and more. Time: 10:30am–5:30pm. Venue: Constantia Waldorf School, Spaanschemat River Rd, Constantia. Cost: R20 adults, R10 children. Contact: 081 270 1591, rikke. deals@galileosa.co.za or visit facebook. com/constantiawaldorffair Dewey’s League – Reading for Justice Take your child into any of their stores where a South African celebrity will read them a story. Time: 10am–10:30am. Venue: any Exclusive Books store. Cost: free entry, but donated stationery for a charity welcome.

Contact: 011 798 0000 or visit http://blog. exclus1ves.co.za.

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Madrassah Al Ansar children’s weekday classes Conducted by experienced Madrassah teachers who offer an age-appropriate programme. For Grade R–12. Time: 3:30pm–5:30pm, every Tuesday and Thursday during term. Venue: 345 Imam Abdullah Haron Rd, Rondebosch East. Cost: R100 per learner per month.

Contact Karima: 021 704 1462, 074 106 0713 or kidsklub1@polka.co.za Science show-offs night Dr Graham Walker gives his high-energy science show and you get the opportunity to explore the centre at night. 20 March. Time: 6pm.

Venue: Cape Town Science Centre, 370B, Main Rd, Observatory. Cost: R30. Contact: 021 300 3200

classes, talks and workshops Tots n Pots Kids cooking classes Children make a dish from scratch by

grating, rubbing, cutting and mixing.

For 3–12 year olds. Time and venue: see website. Cost: R90 per class. Contact: 076 816 3892, constantia@totsnpots.com or visit totsnpots.co.za

family outings Hands-on Harvest Festival They welcome the public during harvesting to experience the journey of the grape from vine to bottle.

1 February–30 March. Time and cost: see the programme on their website. Venue: Robertson Wine Valley. Contact: 023 626 3167, manager@robertsonwinevalley.com or visit handsonharvest.com Stellenbosch Street Soiree This monthly gathering in the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch is a hub of food, wine and live music. 12 March. Time: 6pm–8pm.

Venue: in Bird St, Andringa St and Church St. Cost: R30, which includes a wine glass and a ticket to taste the wines. Contact: 021 886 8275

finding nature and outdoor play Whale Spotter for Juniors workshops A series of sponsored educational Whale Spotter workshops for children 7–14 years old. The details of the workshop schedule can be found on the website.

Participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with a mobile phone.

False Bay: 8 March. Langebaanweg: 15 March. Time: 7:30am–9:30am,

family marketplace

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Holiday Cricket Festival with All Rounder Cricket Academy

mon

Cricket coaching for 5–8 year olds (Nippers) or 9–13 year olds (Juniors). 31 March– 3 April. Time: 9am–10:30am (Nippers); 9:30am–1:30pm (Juniors), Monday–Thursday.

Venue: Bergvliet Sports Club, Children’s Way, Bergvliet. Cost: R300 for Nippers and R450 for Juniors. Contact Wayne: 084 200 0590, wayne@allrounderacademy.co.za or visit allrounderacademy.co.za

Saturday. Venue: given on registration.

Cost: free. Contact: 079 391 2105 (this Whale Watch Hotline is for sms only), email awhaleofaheritageroutegmail.com to register or visit awhaleofaheritageroute.co.za

Vintage Toy Auction and Flea Market 1 March. Time: 2pm–4pm. Venue: St Martini German Lutheran Church, 240 Long St. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 423 2720 or visit stmartini.org.za

holiday activities

on stage and screen

Cricket School of Excellence holiday cricket coaching clinic 31 March– 3 April. Junior cricketers, 4–14 years old, have four days of fun, active, cricket activities. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: listed on their website. Cost: R600 per person.

For more info: visit cricketschool.co.za Endless summer at Ratanga Junction The theme park is open every Saturday and Sunday. Ends 30 March. Time: 10am–5pm.

Venue: Century City. Cost: R55–R172.

Contact: 0861 200 300 or visit ratanga.co.za Holiday swimming booster clinics Beginner and stroke correction swimming clinics (2, 3 or 5 days). 31 March–4 April.

Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Headstart Swim School, 104 Queen Victoria Rd, Claremont.

Cost: from R150 per clinic. Contact: 021 674 7681, headstartswim@gmail.com or visit headstartswim.co.za Kronendal holiday club A fully supervised, fun-filled day of art and crafts, drumming, baking, a mountain hike, a walk to the beach and swimming. 31 March–4 April. Time: 8am–6pm. Venue: Kronendal Primary School, Andrews Rd, Hout Bay. Cost: half-day R85 (bring own snack), three-quarter day R115 (includes lunch and snack), full day R145 (includes lunch and snack). Contact Joanne: 076 402 2333 or joannefrost.s.a@gmail.com

Tales of Little Grey Rabbit 29 March– 5 April. Time: 10:30am; also 3, 4 and 5 April 12:30pm. Venue: Artscape Theatre Foyer. Cost: R60. Contact: 021 421 7695 or Computicket: 0861 915 8000 The Lego Movie premieres 14 March In Lego world Emmet, an ordinary mini figure, must save the world. For more info: visit sterkinekor.com or numetro.co.za

markets Century City Natural Goods Market For live entertainment, children’s activities and various stalls. You can also enjoy boat trips from Intaka Island to Canal Walk. 30 March. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Central Park, Park Lane in Century City. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 531 2173 or naturalgoodsmarket@gmail.com City Bowl Food Market The market is child-friendly and has live music. A Grade 1 teacher supervises art activities. Time: 4:30pm–8:30pm every Thursday, 9am–2pm every Saturday. Venue: 14 Hope St, Gardens.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 079 429 1454 or visit citybowlmarket.co.za The BMC Family Market Enjoy art, crafts, decor and home-made food. There is entertainment for children. 1 March. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Bergvliet Methodist Church, 2 Wesley Ave, Bergvliet. Cost: free entry. Contact: 021 715 3045 or familymarket@bmchurch.org.za

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playtime and story time Brackenfell Library story hours Each session also includes a craft. 5 March: Worms, 12 March: We Do Gardening, 19 March: Library Week, 26 March: Wind. For 2–6 year olds. Time: 10:30am. Venue: Paradys St. Cost: free. Contact: 021 981 1375

sport and physical activities Dance Totz free trial class A free trial class where each child receives a cupcake, balloon and discount cake voucher for a Dance Starz Party. Booking essential. For 3–6 year olds. 26 and 27 March. Time: tbc. Venue: southern suburbs. Cost: free. Contact: 072 904 4848 or fun@dancetotz.co.za Kids on Cloud 9 Soccer, cricket, rugby, dancing and more is offered. Pre-grade R–7.

Time: 9am–6pm Monday–Friday. Venues: varies. Cost: R390 per term. Contact: 084 777 1212 Kids Pilates classes For 5–12 year olds.

3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 March. Time: 2:45pm–3:15pm every Monday. Venue: 29 Derry St, Vredehoek. Cost: R90–R110.

Contact: 021 461 2159 Soccer classes with Little Kickers now in the Boland For boys and girls aged 18 months–7 years old in Paarl, Stellenbosch and Somerset West. Free trials are available.

Time and cost: varies. Contact: 076 265 0196 or boland@littlekickers.co.za Teddy Tennis at The Glen Country Club Tennis for 3–7 year olds. Time: Monday– Friday afternoons. Venue: The Glen Country Club, Clifton. For more info: 083 679 0731 or visit teddytennis.com

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Cannons Creek Independent School open days 28 February: primary school.

Time: 9am–12pm. 1 March: high school. magazine cape town

Time: 9am. Venue: Nursery Way, Pinelands.

Cost: free. Contact: 021 531 0912 (primary school), 021 531 5011 (high school) or visit cannonscreek.co.za Family and Friends CPR 1 March. Time: 9am. Venue: Constantiaberg Mediclinic, Burnham Rd, Plumstead. Cost: R270–R320 depending on course. Contact: 021 705 6459, training@pec.co.za or visit pec.co.za How to raise a child Learn ways to understand and stimulate your child the Montessori way. 8 March. Time: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: Elf Office, 28 Main Rd, Mowbray. Cost: R50. Contact: 021 685 8119

on stage and screen Carmina Burana at Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts To raise funds for Kirstenbosch’s May 2014 exhibit to the Chelsea Flower Show. 21 March.

Time: 5:30pm–7pm. Venue: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Cost: R85–R120.

Contact: 021 799 8783 or visit sanbi.org March line-up at the Kalk Bay Theatre Comedy for a Cause: 6 and 7 March. The Ha!man in Concert: 20–22 March. Oom Schalk: From the Heart: 26 March–6 April.

Venue: Kalk Bay Theatre. For more info on cost and time: visit kalkbaytheatre.co.za Movie Blockbusters – Last Night of the Proms The evening features songs from classic films such as Titanic. Proceeds go to the Victoria Hospital and St Luke’s Hospice.

Time: 15 March 8pm and 16 March 7pm.

Venue: Cape Town City Hall. Cost: R190– R230. Book through Computicket: visit computicket.com

out and about Cape Town Art Fair A showcase of South Africa’s top artists. 27 February–2 March.

Time: 10am–8pm Friday and Saturday, 10am–6pm Sunday. Venue: BMW Pavilion, V&A Waterfront. Cost: R45–R70, children under 10 years old free. For more info: visit artfaircapetown.co.za

support groups Divorce Therapy Support Group A 10-week course every Tuesday. 4 March– 13 May. Time and venue: 9:30am–11am, My Urban Retreat, De Waterkant; 6pm–7:30pm, Little Stream, Constantia. For more info: visit collaboratecapetown.co.za Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersexed (LGBTI) Support Group Featuring the book Making Finn.

19 March. Time: 6:30pm–8:30pm. Venue: Triangle Project, Elta House, 3 Caledonian Rd, Mowbray. Cost: free. Contact: 021 686 1475 or visit triangle.org.za

Town: 10:30am–12:30pm, every Tuesday.

Mediclinic Constantiaberg: 10am–12pm every Thursday. Cost: R50. Contact: 021 762 0116 or visit theparentcentre.org.za HypnoBirthing course by a doula Woodstock: 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 March.

Time: 9am–11:30am. Venue: Clyde Street, Woodstock. Fish Hoek: 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 March. Time: 9:30am–12pm. Venue: Amsterdam Road, Fish Hoek. Cost: R1 650 per couple; discounts available. Contact Charlene: 082 223 0549 or charlene@ beautifullyborn.co.za

playtime and story time Babies Read Books story time Suitable for 1–2 year olds. 11 and 25 March.

Time: 9:15am–9:45am. Venue: Cape Town Mediclinic, Hof St, Gardens. Cost: R15.

Contact: 082 222 4082 Toddler story time For ages 3 months– 5 years. 5, 12, 19 and 26 March. Time: 11am–11:30am. Venue: Observatory Library, 83 Station Rd, Observatory. Cost: free. Contact: 021 447 9017 or observatory. library@capetown.gov.za

support groups La Leche League’s Breast-feeding Support Groups For queries, meeting times, contact details and more info: visit llli. org or visit their Facebook page: La Leche League South Africa

how to help The Chaeli Campaign Walk4Wheels The annual event consists of a 4km walk or an 8km run. 20 March. Time: 5:30pm. Venue: Bergvliet Sports Association, Children’s Way, Bergvliet. Cost: R20–R40. Contact Shelly: 021 761 4326, shelly@chaelicampaign.co.za or visit chaelicampaign.co.za The Bookery An NPO that builds, stocks and staffs school libraries. They need books in good condition, that are suitable for primary and high schools; monetary donations, for daily operations and volunteers. Follow them on Twitter @thebookery1 and like them on Facebook. Venue: Plein Park, 69–83 Plein St. For more info: visit thebookery.org.za

20 March – The Chaeli Campaign Walk4Wheels

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Baby massage Interactive class for moms and babies aged 6 weeks–6 months. Time: 10am–11:30am, Wednesdays. Venue: 51 Protea Rd, Claremont. Cost: R575 for a four-week course. Contact: 082 971 3975 or lynn@motherhoodmatters.co.za Moms-to-be and Moms and babies groups For moms with babies up to one year old. Mediclinic Cape magazine cape town

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 28 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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finishing touch

branching out CASSANDRA SHAW recalls how travelling at a young age impacted her life and ultimately that of her son’s.

i

t’s amazing how much of an impact exposing your child to new and unusual things can have on them.

Encouraging them to experience unfamiliar things or to visit different places can really ignite their curiosity and imagination.

Taking them out of their everyday world creates the opportunity for you to open up their minds and to see what’s out there beyond their comfort zones.

I remember when my parents took me to Hong Kong when I was five. My mom, being a chef, thought it important to expose me to different foods while we were there, and whenever we tried out a new restaurant, the waiters and waitresses would encourage me to eat something interesting like chicken’s

feet, tripe or snake soup – the latter I remember, to this day, not being overly keen on. It’s amazing though, that at such a young age, I was able to maintain so many memories from this trip. Sure, a lot of them were childlike, such as driving on a doubledecker bus, or visiting a massive toy store, but the overall experience really shaped my life. I instantly caught the travel bug; I have an appreciation for Chinese culture and I absolutely love dim sum.

I see the same light appear in my son whenever we teach him something new, travel somewhere or take him someplace different. Like most children, he soaks up new experiences, whether it’s playing puttputt for the first time, travelling overseas

or spending time outdoors. He recently went on a camping trip with my husband and his family and when they got back he was talking a mile a minute about what he had done, seen and how much fun he’d had. He played outside with his cousins, explored the area and slept in a tent – the idea of which absolutely thrilled him. When it came time to sleep, he didn’t make a fuss and he didn’t try to put it off, he actually looked at my husband and said, “Dad, I’m tired, I think it’s time I went to sleep in the tent now, ok?” So, he did. He got up, went to the tent on his own and fell asleep. I can only imagine what was going through his mind at that moment: being in the dark, lying on the ground, and listening to the

sounds of the wild – all this just outside his temporary, A-frame, fabric home.

But that’s the beauty of a family holiday; the experiences and memories that a child will have of them for the rest of their life.

These things will shape them into who they want to be and inevitably play a part in what they teach or get their children to experience one day too. I don’t think I’ll get my son to try snake soup anytime soon, but I’ll certainly encourage him to travel or join me for some dim sum, whenever we get the chance.

Having missed out on his first real camping trip, Cassandra’s keen on introducing her son to things she remembers about camping, like roasting marshmallows and eating s’mores.

it’s party time continued...

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PHOTOGRAPH: MENKE BONNEMA

Cassandra and her son