Child Magazine | Durban April 2012

D U R B A N ’ S

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

p ar e n t s

do try

this at home fun family games

boost their immunity why we need to vaccinate

www.childmag.co.za

April 2012

free

cutting-edge debate – the law on circumcision decoding your health practitioners

health

education

entertainment

Hunter House P U B L I S H I N G

80% percent of the calls and emails we receive from you, our readers, relate directly to your children’s health.

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 Tamlyn Vincent • durban@childmag.co.za Editorial Assistant Lucille Kemp • lucille@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

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

Client Relations PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

Lisa Waterloo • capetown@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation

As parents, we understand that this is your primary concern. So in this issue, we have tried to assist you by covering a wide range of the more popular health-related topics. These include issues that come up time and time again: “what’s best for baby”, nutrition, HIV and the often-contentious discussion about vaccinations, to name but few.

Our job at Child magazine is to bring you the latest research and debates on matters related to growing, healthy children.

We trust that you will use our articles as a starting point for your own discussions and ultimately, to seek solutions to your children’s health-related needs. We are hugely grateful to the many professionals we consult each

month when researching articles, and who also respond to readers’ letters and blogs.

Ultimately, as parents, we make our own choices, but it is helpful to know who to turn to when the going gets a little tough.

As a bonus this month, we also bring you a resource of health care practitioners (page 24). Sometimes it’s knowing who to call that makes all the difference.

Have a happy, healthy April.

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

Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

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

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

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Durban’s Child magazine TM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: 1st Floor, MB House, 641 Peter Mokaba Road, Overport, 4091. Tel: 031 209 2200, fax: 031 207 3429, email: durban@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed

by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Durban’s Child magazine TM . We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles, and other editorial content, are accurate and balanced, but cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or inconvenience that may arise from reading them.

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April 2012

3

contents

april 2012

22

upfront 3

a note from lisa

6 over to you

readers respond

features 10 plate up, the right way

ere is a breakdown of how much h of which foods should be on your child’s plate. By Vanessa Papas

regulars

12 give them a shot

deciding whether to vaccinate is

a controversial issue, but Vanessa Papas points out the benefits

6 wins 8

14 home entertainment

Anél Lewis looks at what the law says about circumcision

Anél Lewis gives you great ideas for tried and tested outdoor fun

9 upfront with paul

15 beautiful bulungula

Paul Kerton reminds us that smoking is a bad habit at any age

Lisa Mc Namara found a rural school in the Eastern Cape that has overcome adversity

24 resource – who to call?

16 think before you let them drink

guest columnist Gary Koen looks at the danger of teenagers drinking alcohol

get inspiration with these recipes from Allison Brand and Debbie O’Flaherty’s book Let’s Celebrate

12

Child magazine brings you a list of health care practitioners, explaining what they do

26 a good read

22 easter celebrations

best for baby – cut to the chase

new books for the whole family

28 what’s on in april 34 anél’s finishing touch

Anél Lewis, our new back page columnist, shares her parenting issues with you

classified ads 33 let’s party 34 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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April 2012

Cape Town

Durban

Johannesburg

shutterstock.com

Calamity’s Closet www.calamityscloset.co.za

shutterstock.com

magazine durban

magazine durban

April 2012

5

over to you

letters

What happened to nursery school teachers conducting the music rings as they used to, and should, do? School fees are already hugely expensive and as these activities take place during school time they are not actually an “extramural”. I should have asked the teacher what difference 17 rather than 15 little people bobbing around to the music would have made?

Granny

do you vaccinate your child?

How you responded on childmag.co.za

79% yes

a milk bank to donate breast-milk, as I have plenty and felt that I could make a difference to a sick or premature baby. To my disappointment, nurses advised me to breast-feed and express less to produce less milk. To add to this, whenever I breast-feed in public, even covered with a blanket, people’s expressions show: “Shouldn’t you be doing that in the loo?”

My response: “No, do you eat in the toilet?” Mr Motsoaledi, I really hope that this initiative takes flight.

Risanti Saris

facts on sunscreen

21

%

no

the odd ones out When my daughter-in-law contacted a number of playschools for my little granddaughter, and fees were quoted, it was stated that an additional fee would be charged for an optional weekly visit from a music and movement teacher and a ball-skill tutor.

When I accompanied her to register the little one, we were taken on a tour of the school, and the movement lesson was in progress. I thought it most insensitive and unfair when I saw a few children, whose parents had obviously not been able to afford this extra cost, outside while the others were having fun singing and dancing.

In response to a reader’s letter that sunscreen causes skin cancer (March 2012); it does not cause skin cancer.

I am a public health scientist who has been working in the field of skin cancer prevention and sun awareness in South Africa for more than a decade and people simply don’t put enough of it on, or re-apply often enough. Using a sunscreen with a higher SPF does not allow you to spend longer in the sun. It just means that the higher SPF sunscreen is giving you better protection for the same time. Look for a Cansa-endorsed sunscreen in your local shop that protects against UVA and UVB rays. I found a SPF 40 that does the job.

Caradee Wright

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

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

You can also post a comment online at

childmag.co.za

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

bravo to breast-feeding In response to the column “no substitutes”, I agree with our Minister of Health, Mr Motsoaledi, that breast-feeding is the best way to nourish babies and that there is no substitute for it. I am still breast-feeding my nine month old and tried to find

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

wins

giveaways in april room makeover Coral Moon stocks a range of items that makes it easy to refresh the décor of your child’s room. Krooom products are eco-friendly, reinforced cardboard furniture for children. Wallies are prepasted murals and cutouts that are easy to apply and remove. For info about the products Coral Moon distributes, contact Simone: 072 784 0642, sim@ coralmoon.co.za or visit coralmoon. co.za or facebook.com/walliessa Two readers stand a chance to win a girl’s or boy’s hamper, including a Krooom bookcase and a large mural and alphabet cutouts from Wallies, valued at R1 500. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-dbn and use the code “Coral Moon DBN”. Your details are made available to Coral Moon.

smart furniture The Bloc works as an ottoman and converts to a full-size single bed. Add the BlocTop and you have a coffee table. It is covered in upholstery-grade, washable fabric. To order online or to find a retailer, contact: 0861 999 122 or visit blocshop.co.za One reader stands a chance to win a large Bloc Stor and BlocTop valued at R2 680. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-dbn and use the code “Bloc DBN”. Your details are made available to Bloc.

to enter simply visit childmag.co.za

congratulations to our February winners Vermel Burn who wins a Commando children’s birthday party for 16 from Boot Camp SA; Onisha Devchund who wins a sterling silver bracelet from Pandora and Virashnee Naidoo who wins Huggies Little Swimmers along with swimming lessons for a baby, a blow-up swimming pool and a

or post your entry to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Entries close 30 April 2012. Only one entry per reader.

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April 2012

branded towel.

magazine durban

magazine durban

April 2012

7

best for baby

cut to the chase

c

at Stevens certainly wasn’t thinking about circumcision when he sang “The first cut is the deepest” in the 60s, but for many in the medical fraternity, the removal of a baby’s foreskin is considered one of the most painful procedures in neonatal medicine.

Put simply, circumcision is the removal of the foreskin to expose the tip of the penis. A rite of passage in some cultures, many baby boys are circumcised because it is what their parents want. It may be that the father himself is circumcised, or the parents believe a circumcised penis is more hygienic. But this so-called routine or elective circumcision has become less common as medical authorities worldwide believe there is no medical reason for the procedure.

The South African Medical Association says there is “no justification” for routine circumcision and the law is even more explicit. According to the Children’s Act of 2010, the circumcision of male children under the age of 16, unless it is done for medical or religious reasons, is illegal and anyone found performing a prohibited circumcision risks a fine and/or 10 years in prison. In a country where young initiates die monthly from botched circumcisions, one can understand the need to protect them from unhygienic and uncontrolled procedures.

But does this mean elective circumcision in a safe, hospital environment is prohibited? Brian Honermann,

8

April 2012

When it comes to circumcision, the decision to snip is anything but cut and dried. ANÉL LEWIS looks at what the law says.

a former researcher with Section27, a public interest law centre, says the act does allow for circumcision if recommended by a medical practitioner. As medical circumcision could lower the risk of HIV infections and other sexually transmitted diseases, a doctor is “well within the law” to recommend the procedure for your baby,” he says.

“At present there is no legal limitation, beyond standard informed consent requirements, that prohibits the provision of elective neonatal male circumcision.” The doctor must, as with any medical procedure, explain the risks and potential benefits, and may only operate with a parent’s consent.

It is an unnecessary surgery that could have been done later with the man’s informed consent.

However, many medical associations and interest groups contend that routine circumcision is unethical and unnecessary, and that the Children’s Act protects “vulnerable” infants and children from being cut without their consent. Professor Daniel Sidler, of the Department of Paediatric Surgery at Tygerberg Children’s Hospital, says the contentious issue is what would be considered a valid medical reason for an elective circumcision. It should

1/3

of men worldwide are circumcised – World Health Organisation

only be considered as such if there’s an “immediate health benefit” and if there is no other less invasive alternative.

Many problems, such as phimosis, or tightness of the foreskin, do not need medical interference and “water and soap will do” if there are hygiene concerns. He adds that paediatric surgeons do not consider neonatal circumcision to have fewer complications than adult circumcision. “It is an unnecessary surgery that could have been done later with the man’s informed consent.”

It is up to you, as the parent, to decide whether the benefits outweigh the risks and ethical concerns. As elective circumcision is deemed a cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by most medical aids. You can expect to pay up to about R3 000, depending on the doctor and the hospital. It should be performed shortly after birth under local or general anaesthesia, and will take only a few minutes. Risks include bleeding and infection, and the procedure should not be performed on a baby born prematurely or with congenital abnormalities.

magazine durban

upfront with paul

thanks for not smoking Nip their smoking habit in the butt early, says PAUL KERTON.

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

s

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

ir Walter Raleigh brought tobacco back from the South American Indians around 1560 and the habit spread like wildfire (sorry) despite early proof that burning leaves in your mouth destroyed your lungs. And that was before cigarette companies started adding “addiction accelerators” into the “filter” tips. But it took an awful lot longer for greedy governments to work out that the long-term health costs outweighed the benefits of short-term taxation on a pack of twenties.

It’s encouraging how, over the past five years, smoking has actively receded from consciousness as most civilised societies have tried to ban the habit by simply restricting the places that smokers can legally smoke. Just look at the huddled groups of lunchtime smokers in office and shop doorways.

magazine durban

I don’t know what I would do if I found that my children had started smoking and were hiding behind the garage and hurriedly brushing their teeth before supper. I would be really disappointed as we have preached a no-smoking mantra since day one, as did my parents. Children start mostly because of peer pressure or because an older sibling or parent smokes.

I never smoked because a) I couldn’t be bothered carrying cigarette packets and lighters, b) I couldn’t stand the smell on my hair and clothes and c) I have always been sporty so it wasn’t an option. My elder sister, who lives in London, didn’t heed my parents’ warning and started at the age of 15 when it was still considered very cool. According to Cancer Research UK, a massive 160 000 children under 15 start smoking every year, a number that would fill about 5 200 classrooms.

Children are three times more likely to smoke if their parents do. The warnings on packets don’t seem to do much good once a smoker is hooked, as the risk is all part of the allure, they claim. They know that smoking can kill, but light up regardless. It always amazes me how many doctors and school teachers used to smoke although, luckily, they now seem to be getting the message.

The banning of advertising and the banning of smoking in public places, especially on trains and planes, has worked wonders. It is less than 20 years since they banned smoking on planes globally. How dumb was that? You may as well douse yourself in lighter fuel and touch an electric fire.

Despite clever under-the-radar branding and underground invite-only events, the trend has now moved away from smoking,

but BAT (British Allied Tobacco) has just posted a three percent rise in profits.

Initially marketers ingeniously tried to match cigarette brands to a colour: Benson & Hedges was gold, John Player Special was black, Dunhill was red and Silk Cut was purple. At one stage the idea of owning a colour, and its association, was so powerful, that one ad for Silk Cut consisted only of a shot of purple silk with a cut in it. Many countries are now moving towards plain packets, which authorities “are hoping” will further remove the cachet of smoking and any sense of loyalty, by removing branding itself.

Fingers crossed. While we are in a new era of sensibility concerning the habit, it’s frightening that children under 15 remain the most susceptible to its temptation.

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

April 2012

9

fyi

plate up, the right way Super-sized meals and too much fast food means your child is eating wrong.

VANESSA PAPAS finds out how much of which foods should be on their plates.

10

April 2012

no need to eat up While it’s important that parents encourage their children to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly, one should never “pressurise” a child to the point where they develop a power struggle over food.

“One of the most common mistakes parents make is forcing their children to ‘clean their plates’,” says Paula Lawson, a Durban dietician who specialises in the dietary requirements of children from the age of six. “If your child won’t eat their vegetables, for example, and so can’t complete their balanced meal, that’s fine, but then don’t offer them anything else to eat as a substitute. Should they ask for something else, reply by saying: ‘if your tummy is full for healthy foods, that is fine, but then your tummy is full for all food, and there is no more to eat’.

Moms often feel guilty that their child is not eating all their food, so they offer a myriad of unhealthy alternatives after the meal. There should never be emotions attached when it comes to food. Don’t use food as a reward and don’t use it to comfort your child.”

Lawson encourages parents to set realistic nutritional goals for their children.

“Just by changing a few things in your child’s diet, you can make a big difference.

Give your child water to drink instead of juice, don’t stock the fridge and pantry with junk food, ensure that veggies and fruits are available at all times, and lead by example by following a healthy lifestyle yourself.” magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

s

outh Africa is climbing the list of the most obese nations in the world.

According to the International Obesity Taskforce, 26 percent of children and adults in South Africa are obese. “An overweight child is more likely to become an overweight adult and is at higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, orthopaedic problems, sleeping problems and depression,” explains Gauteng paediatric dietician Deborah Jacobson. So it’s vital that good eating habits are taught from a young age and children are encouraged to be active.

It starts with knowing how much to feed, and what portion sizes to give. “The food pyramid has been the food guide we all adhered to, but now there is a move towards the ‘food plate’ as the new nutritional guide,” says Jacobson. “The concept of the ‘food plate’ is to teach us practically, and visually, how to divide and choose foods from the different food groups on our plate for meals. Although there are five food groups – dairy, meat (protein), vegetables and fruit, starch and fat – we like to simplify things when it comes to children. Starch and fats are considered ‘energy foods’ or ‘go foods’ and protein and dairy are grouped as ‘protein’ or ‘grow foods’. The food plate is for meal times only. Generally, dairy products are taken as snacks, or with cereal, so these are not included on the plate. The plate is divided into three sections: half is assigned for vegetables (cooked or raw) and fruits, and the remaining two quarters for proteins and starches (preferably wholegrain varieties).”

menu guidelines It’s difficult to generalise how many servings of each food group are recommended for the various age groups, as children have different needs based on their activity level, age and sex, but there are basic guidelines for children between the ages of two and 13. The Nutrition Information Centre at Stellenbosch University says a portion of meat, grains, fruit or veg is equivalent to one tablespoon for each year, until the age of 12. So a six-year-old would have six tablespoons of meat. Jacobson says, “as a rule of thumb”, children should eat:

milk or dairy products Two to three servings a day – one portion is 250ml of milk, 175ml yoghurt, or one matchbox-size piece of yellow cheese

protein foods Two servings a day – one portion of meat or chicken is the size of a child’s palm or a handsize of fish, or one egg

vegetables and fruits Five servings a day – half a cup cooked or one cup of raw veggies and one fist-sized fruit: one apple, peach, orange, etc, or half a cup of fruit salad

starch Six to 10 servings a day – one portion is one slice of bread, three crackers, a fist of pasta, potato, corn, mash or rice

unsaturated fats Not more than three servings a day, or 30 percent of their daily calorie intake – (a portion is one teaspoon of canola or olive oil, two tablespoons of avocado or a handful of nuts – only for children older than three).

Two portions of fish a week, of which one can be a child’s palm size of fatty fish such as tuna or salmon

tips from the dieticians • I f you suspect your child is overweight, take them for a professional assessment by a doctor or dietician. In many cases, it is not necessary to lose weight; only to maintain the weight. As the child grows taller, the weight should normalise. It is important to ensure that a child still receives all their nutritional requirements as they grow.

• Incorporate exercise and physical activity into your child’s daily routine.

• Encourage your children to play outside during the day and keep “couch activities” for evenings.

• Enrol your children in extramural sports at school.

• Cook nutritious home-made meals and steer clear of takeaways. for babies aged one to two • Breast-feed your baby as long as possible.

• Opt for home-made puréed food over commercially sold baby food as a healthier option and don’t add salt, sugar and “bad fats”.

• Full-cream milk is recommended over low-fat and skim milk for babies under the age of two. for children aged two to six • Use your child’s palm and fist size as a guide to portion sizes.

• Use child-size plates for meals.

• Choose a diet that provides enough calcium (dairy) and iron (protein) to meet your growing child’s needs.

• Do not force your child to clean his plate.

• Do not “reward” your child with food. for children aged six to 13 • Your child should be eating three meals and two nutritious snacks a day.

• Food should be fresh and unprocessed and they should be offered healthy snacks, such as plain pretzels, home-made popcorn, water crackers, a variety of fruits and vegetables, yoghurt and nutritious home-made smoothies, if they are hungry between meals.

• Set boundaries on time spent on the computer or watching TV. • Get your child involved in sport extramurals.

• Ensure your child eats a healthy breakfast every day.

magazine durban

April 2012

11

health

give them a shot Vaccinations protect your child against infectious and sometimes life-threatening diseases.

By VANESSA PAPAS

12

April 2012

early protection Your child gets their first set of vaccinations when they’re just a few days old. “The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin), and OPV (oral polio vaccine) are given in the first two weeks after birth,” says Dr Guest. “The BCG vaccinates against tuberculosis, a highly contagious infection that usually attacks the lungs, but can also affect other parts of the body, including the bones, kidneys and brain. Polio is a crippling disease that can lead to permanent lameness, deformity and even death.”

The benefits of a well-thoughtout vaccination programme will far outweigh the dangers for any individual, and ultimately for society at large.

Paediatrician Dr Paul Sinclair, of Vincent Pallotti Hospital in Cape Town, says most vaccines require a course of injections with appropriately spaced boosters to ensure longevity of protection. If a course is interrupted or incomplete, protection will fail or wane, making the initial vaccines a waste of time, and putting your child at risk of acquiring these diseases when they’re older.

“If there is a break or delay in vaccines, it’s important to consult with your doctor or local clinic as to what

± 400 000 South African children are not fully immunised each year

2,5 million child deaths worldwide are prevented annually by vaccines

adjustments are necessary to ‘catch up’ effectively,” explains Dr Sinclair.

“If the cost of the vaccine is concerning, you can opt to have your child vaccinated at state clinics, which provide vaccines free of charge. However, there are some benefits to the private option. A private clinic can provide the Infanrix Hexa six-in-one vaccine as an alternative to the five-in-one Pentaxim vaccine and separate Heberbiovac.

This means your child will only have to have one injection with a delayed start at eight weeks. While mercurybased chemicals are being done away with for human consumption and exposure, there is no clear evidence of any harm caused by thimerosal in the small quantities found in vaccines like Heberbiovac. Private clinics also offer other ‘optional’ immunisations, such as the measlesmumps-rubella (MMR) and chicken pox vaccines.”

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

s

everal serious diseases, including polio and measles, have become less prevalent and the individual impact far less severe because of effective ongoing vaccination programmes around the world. This makes the development of vaccines arguably one of the greatest advances in world health. However, there are still concerns about the need for these injections, and the possible sideeffects they may have. Janey Naidoo, of Durban, says, “At first I was very concerned about having my newborn son, Ravi, vaccinated, as I’d heard horror stories of children who developed serious side-effects from certain vaccines.

But after speaking to the nurse at our local clinic, I now understand that you shouldn’t believe everything you hear through the grapevine. If you have concerns, speak to a professional.”

Gauteng general practitioner Dr Sylvia Guest, says the concept behind vaccinating is simple, yet effective.

“Each virus and bacteria has a specific ‘marker’ on its cell membrane and it is to that marker that the body makes an antibody or antidote when our body is exposed to it.

Vaccines are inactive or live, harmless replicas of the virus or bacteria we want to develop antibodies towards. In other words, they mimic the original disease. Our bodies recognise the bug and make an antibody against it. While the vaccine is a mild, far more harmless version of the original bug, the antibody we make towards the bug is effective against the original bug. That’s why vaccines protect us when we are exposed to the original bug many years after receiving the vaccine. Some vaccines even provide a lifetime of protection against the disease.”

are there risks?

While generally safe to use, some children may develop a reaction to certain vaccines, the most common side-effect being fever, body aches and headaches. “The use of topical anaesthesia, in the form of a cream or a patch, can assist in reducing the local pain, while breast-feeding some infants may also help in minimising the discomfort,” adds Dr Guest.

“Recent studies, however, suggest pre-vaccine paracetamol is not advisable and may, in a minor way, affect the vaccine’s efficacy, but it is fine to use paracetamol or alternate antiinflammatories post-vaccination if a fever occurs or there is discomfort. Expect your child to be a little miserable for 24 to 48 hours post-vaccination and treat them with even more care than usual.”

Certain vaccinations can leave a scar. If your baby has had a BCG injection in their upper arm, in the first six to eight weeks you will probably see a “pimple” appear at the injection site. This may develop into a larger sore and may even look septic. It’s a normal reaction and there is nothing you need to do, aside from keeping the sore clean with cool boiled water. Although rare, seek medical help immediately if your child develops a severe allergic reaction after an immunisation. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, hoarseness or wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, a rapid heart beat or dizziness. “Should your child not be well prior to having a vaccination, your doctor may suggest postponing

allay the autism fear Vaccinations generally get a bad rap, but the most controversial is the MMR vaccine, with its supposed links to autism. British doctor Andrew Wakefield claimed in 1998 that the vaccine could cause autism spectrum disorders. His alleged findings led to a drop in vaccination levels, causing an outbreak of measles in that country. The study was later refuted.

“The link between MMR and autism has been safely excluded for the last 15 to 20 years,” explains paediatrician Dr Paul Sinclair. “In fact, the doctor who made these initial claims has been removed from his country’s register of practising doctors.

There is absolutely no link between the MMR vaccine and autism and there never was one. As with all things in life, any action may result in a reaction, but the benefits of a well-thought-out vaccination programme will far outweigh the dangers for any individual, and ultimately for society at large.”

magazine durban

until your child is better,” says Dr Guest. “Generally it is best to wait a few days if your child has a fever.”

planning to fall pregnant?

If you are planning to fall pregnant, make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Rubella, or German measles, may cause birth defects such as blindness and hearing loss, if contracted during the first trimester. Other diseases that can cause congenital abnormalities are the STORCH group – syphilis, toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, chicken pox, hepatitis and herpes.

Women who had vaccinations as a child are less likely to contract preventable diseases during their pregnancy.

Speak to your doctor about the vaccines you may need before conceiving.

• S outh Africa is burdened by one of the worst tuberculosis epidemics in the world, despite the fact that the disease can be prevented by vaccinating.

• Most nursery and primary schools insist on seeing your child’s vaccination chart when you apply.

• In almost 50 nations, 60 percent of the children are not immunised.

• A child in a developing country is 10 times more likely to die of a vaccine-preventable disease than a child in an industrialised nation.

EPI Schedule The Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) Schedule is a list of recommended routine vaccinations your child should have. The vaccines protect against invasive bacterial diseases, such as meningitis, rotavirus, tuberculosis, polio, tetanus, hepatitis A and B, measles, mumps, rubella, chicken pox and influenza.

(This EPI Schedule appears on the Department of Health’s website: visit doh.gov.za) at birth

BCG (injection to right upper arm), oral polio vaccine

6 weeks

Oral polio vaccine, RV (liquid by mouth), DTaP-IPV/Hib (intramascular injection to left thigh), Hep B (intramuscular to right thigh), PCV7 (intramuscular to right thigh)

10 weeks

DTap-IPV/Hib (intramuscular to left thigh), Hep B (intramuscular to right thigh)

14 weeks

RV (liquid by mouth), DTap-IPV/Hib (intramuscular to left thigh), Hep B (intramuscular to right thigh), PCV7 (intramuscular to right thigh)

9 months

Measles vaccine (intramuscular to left thigh), PCV7 (intramuscular to right thigh)

18 months

DTap-IPV/Hib (intramuscular to left arm), measles vaccine (intramuscular to right arm)

6 years

Td Vaccine (intramuscular to left arm)

12 years

Td Vaccine (intramuscular to left arm)

Note: Not all state clinics in South Africa provide all the routine vaccinations reflected on the EPI. Additional vaccinations available over the above include MMR (measles, mumps and rubella), Varilrix (chicken pox), Havrix (hepatitis A), Synflorix (streptococcus pneumonia and non typeable Haemophilus) and Cervarix and Gardasil (human papillomavirus). To guarantee maximum protection, your child will need booster shots of certain vaccines.

For more about vaccination against cervical cancer, visit childmag.co.za/content/cervical-cancer

April 2012

13

how to

home entertainment Turn off the TV and the computer and let your children rediscover the joy of play. By ANÉL LEWIS

1

hide out

2

Make a fort or teepee out of tablecloths or sheets. Children of all ages will love building a secret hideaway in the garden. You can use a variety of materials to make a fort, such as a large cardboard box or a sheet draped over some chairs.

Let your child decorate the fort with non-toxic paint, fabric or stickers. Intrepid adventurers may want to camouflage their forts with leaves and branches.

You can also use trees and shrubs as part of your fort’s walls.

hold a teddy bear’s picnic

Invite your children’s furry friends, and arrange them under some trees. Use plastic crockery and serve real juice and snacks for the human guests. For older children, turn this into a midnight feast and include hot chocolate in thermo flasks. Illuminate the meal with lanterns they’ve decorated, but make sure they are placed safely out of reach. Or recreate the magic of the Arabian Nights in your lounge by erecting a Bedouin tent, made of sheets or coloured fabric.

4

hopscotch or pavement art

Take some chalk and draw a hopscotch course onto paving. You can also use plastic hoops to mark the course. It usually has seven or eight sections and each child is given a marker, such as a stone or a bean bag, to throw onto the course. The first player throws the marker onto the first square and then has to hop over it to get to the second square, before hopping to the end of the course and back again.

If the player lands on the square with the marker, or stands on the line, they are out. Children from the age of three will enjoy this game. You can also use the chalk to play noughts and crosses.

6

turn the garden into a magical outdoor theatre or cinema

Transform the humble washing line into a stage backdrop by draping it with a sheet that can be decorated. Use two sheets to create a working stage curtain. If it’s a balmy evening, what about watching a movie outdoors? A clean white sheet can double as a big screen. Hook your laptop or DVD player to a projector to show the film on the sheet. Set up deck chairs or lay out comfy cushions and serve popcorn for an unforgettable, outdoor cinematic experience.

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art in the garden

Give children some coloured chalk and let them do murals on paving in the garden. You can also create a canvas for an outdoor mural by hanging an old sheet on the washing line. Let the children explore their creativity and unleash their inner Jackson Pollock with some non-toxic paints. Just make sure they stick to the sheet and don’t extend their artworks to any walls or garden furniture.

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April 2012

3

camp out

5

scavenger hunt

7

backyard bowling

10

amazing race or an obstacle course

Children love the thrill of spending a night under the stars. Pack the sleeping bags and camping gear and head for a spot in the garden where you can perhaps build a small fire, or use a gas burner. Toast marshmallows and sausages and sing camp fire songs. Use the opportunity to teach older children about the stars and the Milky Way.

With it being the month of Easter, this is good training if you are planning an egg hunt and it’s also an excellent way to keep energetic children entertained outside. You can use all sorts of objects to hide in interesting places in the garden, including sweets (just make sure you remember where these are, in case they don’t get found), small toys and other items. Hide these treasures under stones, in flower pots or between plants.

With young children, keep the hunt short and simple. For older children, include clues to direct them to the hiding spots. This can be played with children from the age of three.

Create skittles with household items, such as empty cold drink bottles or cereal boxes. Let younger children use a large ball and give the older children smaller balls to test their bowling skills.

This is a great way to let older children burn off some excess energy. Get a group together and make an obstacle course in the garden.

Use chairs, boxes, cushions, the laundry basket and bits of rope to make challenging obstacles for children to climb over and under, or through. A novel idea is to tie strawberries or apples to the washing line on long pieces of string, then get the children to eat them without using their hands.

This can be one of the tasks on the obstacle course.

8

water games

Nothing beats good old H2O for outdoor fun. Fill balloons with water to make water bombs. Invest in a water slide that can also be set up in the garden.

This will keep children of all ages entertained for hours. Toddlers will enjoy a splash pool, or playing with water placed in differentsized containers around the garden. Just make sure they are supervised at all times. Use a hose pipe for a limbo game for older children. While you are watering the garden, get them to move their bodies under the stream of water, each time lowering the height of the hose pipe.

ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

i

t can be somewhat of a challenge to keep children entertained over long weekends or during the holidays. But, with just a few props and plenty of imagination, you can turn your home or garden into a veritable playground for children of all ages. Make sure they are wearing sunscreen and hats if they play outdoors.

magazine durban

community project

Bulungula A remote rural village has managed to turn adversity into success; providing quality education for its children.

LISA MC NAMARA visits this hidden gem in the hills of the Transkei.

PHOTOGRAPHS: BULUNGULA INCUBATOR/CHRIS MC NAMARA/LISA MC NAMARA

t

owards the end of last year, as I sat at my desk paging through the newspaper, I was overwhelmed by all the “bad news” stories. There were articles about the appalling state of our education system and more on how little we seem to care for the millions of children growing up in a country seemingly unable to provide the basic requirements for a semi-decent childhood. But where were the “good news” stories?

Surely these are as important?

I left the newspaper to open my email and there it was – a good news story, in the heart of the Eastern Cape of all provinces. The email was from Annette Champion, who after retiring as deputy head of Herschel Preparatory School in Cape Town, headed for the hills of the Transkei to join an NGO as the education programme’s manager, and most remarkably, establish the Jujurha Preschool.

In the remote village of Nqileni, there is a truly inspiring story of children being offered a world-class education, of teachers who are passionate and committed, and of eager children as young as three donning gumboots to brave the rain and slippery hills to get to school on time.

Prof Jonathan Jansen, rector and vice-chancellor of Free State University, will tell you that it’s the human resources that make for successful schools and nowhere is this more apparent than in the village of Nqileni, located in one of the poorest districts in South Africa.

MySchool.co.za Sign up and make Bulungula Incubator the beneficiary or add the BI as an additional beneficiary.

Sponsor a child Twenty percent of South African children live in the Eastern Cape, with 80 percent receiving an inferior education. Your donation could ensure that one child goes to a decent primary school, paving the way for others to follow. Pledge as little as R100 a month or leave a legacy by signing a codicil to include a bequest in your will. You can also visit the website to see what resources are urgently needed. Forms and banking details are available on bulungulaincubator.org. Go to bulungula.com for directions and accommodation details.

Jujurha Preschool and the community library

The pupils at Jujurha Preschool

Annette has been instrumental in setting up the Jujurha Education Centre, which includes the preschool and community library, and forms the education part of the Bulungula Incubator (BI), a not-for-profit association. The village has no basic services and until last year, the road stopped 3km from the village. Not surprisingly, almost all its adult residents are illiterate and very few completed their schooling. But despite its remoteness, the BI is a magazine durban

collection of success stories, with the little preschool on the hill being the gem. When Annette mailed me about the school, and her life in the hills, I had to see it for myself.

Here was someone living my dream.

After convincing my husband and children that three days of no electricity, running water and, most horrifying for my daughters, no flushing loos, would be a small price to pay for paradise, we made the long journey to Bulungula.

We settled into sea-facing tents and were impressed with our meals, made with only gas and in a communal cooking pot on a large fire outside. The food was delicious and my husband and I opted for beer as it was served chilled; impressive for a lodge that runs on solar power.

Even more impressive were the rocket showers, which delivered eight minutes of super-hot water to beautiful mosaiced cubicles. They did, however, require some precision to fire up, but after a scary start for my shywhen-naked youngest, which involved a local woman running into Robyn’s shower with large yellow gloves to avert an explosion, we all mastered the art of wrapping toilet paper three times around our hands, sticking it in to the bottom of the rocket shower, pouring paraffin out of

an old enamel teapot onto the paper and setting it alight.

The compost loos also required a level of skill. No need for detail, suffice to say they were spotless and odourless.

The BI story began with Annette’s son, David, who decided to create an eco-friendly backpackers lodge as a community development project. The Nqileni community owns 40 percent of the Bulungula Lodge and is an integral part of its daily life. The Jujurha Education Centre opened in July 2009 and this year the preschool will provide an early childhood development programme to 64 children.

What’s remarkable is that these children will graduate from this rural facility, school-ready, with many capable of excellent scholastic performance if given the opportunity.

With no quality primary school close by, Annette and her team are working hard to secure scholarships for many of the children to continue their quality education at a decent primary school in Mthatha. “The Vulindlela (Open the Road) scholarships are the only way that these children can secure a better life. They are otherwise doomed to the impoverished life of so many rural communities because the state is unable to provide functional schools in rural areas such as these,” says Annette.

On our second day, we walked through the hills, marvelling at the views and wondering how we could help the children and parents of Nqileni Village. The BI team have extended their projects into the surrounding communities, and what they have achieved without electricity, roads and limited resources is life-changing. They could do so much more with a little help from those of us with access to resources, and a willingness to be part of what has to be one of South Africa’s most wonderful “good news” stories.

Robyn, Lisa, Julian and Ayanda

MySchool who donated Woolworths vouchers to assist the first scholarship recipients with school uniforms.

Plastic Land for storage crates filled with educational posters, puzzles and toys for Jujurha Preschool.

April 2012

15

straight talk

think before you let them drink Columnist GARY KOEN cautions parents against shrugging

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any parents dread the thought of their children becoming teenagers. They don’t know what lies in store for them and many, either secretly or openly, wish there was some way they could stop their children from growing up. This is particularly true for the seven to 12 year olds who are in the most golden of their childhood years. The thought of that youthful innocence being swept away by the teenage maelstrom that awaits them around the next developmental bend can be devastating for most parents.

There is the misunderstanding that being a teenager must include a range of dangerous and destructive behaviour.

Parents tend to accept, with sad resignation, that this is true and inevitable, that as parents they are powerless to do anything about it and they therefore have to accept this as “normal teenage behaviour”.

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April 2012

But nothing could be further from the truth. The very idea that our teenagers have to harm themselves to find themselves is absurd. However, when parents start operating cash bars at their 16 year old’s birthday party and 14 and 15 year olds start to believe that going out must include drinking, as well as maybe smoking marijuana, then unfortunately, we really have betrayed our children. If all of this is considered normal teenage behaviour, it is no wonder that parents and teenagers are anxious about these years.

the norm This is not to say that the teenage years will not be difficult.

In all likelihood, they will be filled with conflict, turmoil, drama and stress. There will be confusion, unpredictability, volatility and unrest. They will place a serious strain on your household, your time, your freedom, your budget and your

patience. You will probably question your understanding of the world, your relationships, your habits, your lifestyle, your attitudes and your overall outlook on life. However, at no point does it ever become normal or natural for these adolescent years to become dangerous and destructive.

But as our teenagers slowly move away from the safety of our homes, they will encounter the outside world with all its temptations, and one of the first and most beguiling of these will be alcohol. What makes alcohol so dangerous for teenagers is that the line between what’s normal and what’s destructive becomes rather blurred. This is because alcohol is so easily accessible and available, and also, in South African society, so acceptable. It’s considered very much a normal part of our lives, and therefore, like everything else that is coming our way, is an issue that parents and teenagers need to acknowledge and deal with.

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

off underage drinking as “normal teenage behaviour”.

a dangerous drug It is very important to make our children aware of the fact that alcohol is a drug. This alone is worth reflecting upon, because we cannot hide the reality that in essence, by introducing our children to alcohol, we are basically introducing them to drugs. If alcohol was discovered and released on the streets today, it would apparently receive a grade A drug rating; the classification given to the most harmful and most dangerous of drugs. In a recent British study, alcohol came fifth on the list of all-time harmful drugs, way ahead of LSD and cannabis, and just behind cocaine and heroin.

It makes the war on drugs a bit difficult when the fifth most dangerous one is in fact a powerful, influential, respected and most importantly, legal member of our society. To complicate matters, there are few events

magazine durban

in our lives at which alcohol is not present. From the celebrations that follow the birth of a child, to the commiserations when mourning the loss of a loved one, it

What makes alcohol so dangerous for teenagers is that the line between what’s normal and what’s destructive becomes rather blurred. does not take much for us to find a reason to have a drink.

Alcohol is so prevalent one may be forgiven for believing it’s the very thing that makes these occasions memorable.

The entire alcohol industry relies on this myth and almost

every advertisement would like you to believe that their product will make your life special and meaningful. So it is hardly surprising then that our teenagers are captivated by these untrue and blatantly misleading notions. Alcohol has played its hand in so many avoidable tragedies – from date rape and unwanted pregnancy to a head-on collision or a hapless mugging – that the value it brings to any occasion has to be questioned. Very few people can actually claim to have done something of which they are permanently proud in a moment of drunken splendour.

The truth is that alcohol’s actual value and genuine ability to add meaning to anybody’s life is, in fact, seriously limited. While we can blame the advertising industry for perpetuating this illusion, the bulk of the responsibility when it comes to teenagers and alcohol must still lie with the parents.

April 2012

17

straight talk

when should they drink?

Of all the factors that will influence your teenager’s attitude towards alcohol, your attitude, as parents, will be the most important. Some parents may drink alcohol only on weekends; some may include it as part of their daily lives and others may abstain. Regardless of what your family does, the responsibility of teaching your child about alcohol remains the same. But the decision to introduce your teenager to alcohol must be a sober one. It cannot be done in an impulsive moment, fuelled by your urge to share your good time with your child. Parents need to be sober and in control themselves when teaching their teenager about alcohol.

behaviour already seems wild and out of control, if they present you with arguments saying that as teenagers it is their right to start drinking alcohol or if you offer them a sip and they down the beer in one go.

Alcohol is far too dangerous a drug for anyone to be casual about it.

who’s to blame?

Parents need to remember that the decision of whether your teenager can drink rests with you, not them. They do not have the power or authority to decide when they can start drinking. Therefore, if it has become normal for teenagers to drink, it is the adults who, through ignorance, neglect, or indifference, have allowed this

By introducing our children to alcohol, we are basically introducing them to drugs.

The occasion at which you choose to do this is also important. A wedding, a family celebration or a traditional meal could all be appropriate times to allow your teenager to join in the celebration. However, even at these times, keep a careful eye on how much they want to participate. I would say they should preferably be 17, about to turn 18, before being allowed to join in. Many parents have decided that 15 is an appropriate age to introduce their children to alcohol and allow them to have two or three drinks, be it beers or cider, on weekends. I believe these parents are inviting trouble, and would advocate a far stricter approach. The longer you delay your teenager’s drinking, the better it will be for them and for you. This will naturally vary from one teenager to another and, in fact, there are some who shouldn’t start drinking at all. (See a future issue for the dangers of teenage drinking.) There are signs that your teenager is not yet mature enough to begin their relationship with alcohol: if their

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April 2012

to take place. I am afraid you cannot blame the teenagers here. Adults and parents have tacitly allowed this situation to develop, and I believe that they are the only ones who can reverse this trend.

However, it will require a collective effort as well as a collective recognition that it is fundamentally destructive – and not normal – for teenagers to drink alcohol.

Of course it’s one thing to just blame the parents and excuse the teenager when it comes to teenage drinking. Your teenager may very well put up a strong argument as they beg, plead and demand to know what’s wrong with a couple of beers with their mates over the weekend, or a few ciders around the pool on a Sunday afternoon.

I recall a discussion with a 17-year-old girl who argued that one or two drinks were not a problem. I said, “Okay, you can have two ciders a month.” Her face fell and she wanted to protest, but then could see that she had caught herself out.

Why do they want more? If every teenager magazine durban

was happy with just two drinks a month, would we really be having this discussion?

Unfortunately, in our culture, I am not sure that there is such a thing as normal teenage drinking. Teenagers do not sip serenely from a wine glass or go out and have one beer. They do not get tipsy. Teenagers get legless – horribly and incoherently drunk – and it happens quickly and easily.

binge drinking Unfortunately we come from a culture of excess, where alcohol is invariably imbibed in extreme amounts. Going out and getting drunk is considered a normal part of life in our country. This distortion of what constitutes a good night out extends well beyond what is conventionally known as adolescence. The older our children get, the more they drink, and for longer. Parties can start at lunch time and finish the following morning. As their boundaries blur, the more chaotic and out of control the night becomes. After nearly 12 hours of drinking, it’s easier to think about scoring cocaine, ecstasy or Tik, or anything else that will fuel the desperate, headlong flight into oblivion.

The “big night out” everyone keeps talking about often ends with a violent hangover and feelings of regret and resentment that it was all supposed to turn out so differently.

For me, the worst part is that what I consider binge drinking is now simply regarded as a regular night out. I am seeing supposedly high-functioning, intelligent and talented individuals – not only adolescents, but also supposed role models such as doctors, lawyers and professional people – getting consistently and severely drunk. The actual phenomenon of binge drinking has become an institutionalised epidemic, as it has become more difficult to distinguish between normal and binge drinking. Guys don’t bat an eyelid telling me they had 12 beers and several shooters in one session. When confronted about this sheer volume of alcohol, they quickly point out that it was just a bit of normal fun and that it only happens occasionally, maybe two or three times a week. Oh, and they never drink alone, so that kind of makes it okay. Someone at some point obviously

counselled them that the sure sign of an alcoholic is drinking alone. As long as they always get hammered with friends, they are off the hook. They are unaware of the other 12 criteria for alcoholism that they do meet.

what about that after-work tipple?

Of course none of these dilemmas would exist if drinking alcohol was not enjoyable.

Many parents treasure that cold beer at the end of a day’s work or that chilled Sauvignon Blanc as the sun starts to dip, but you have to be careful this does not turn into a debilitating and unwelcome habit where one beer becomes six, or a glass of wine turns into the whole bottle.

You may find that, on any given evening in the average household, the teenager is more sober than their parents. While parents will vigorously defend their right to an evening tipple, be careful that it does not topple you later on. Irrespective of how well you hold your liquor, no-one is immune to its effects and if your teenager hasn’t been drinking, but you have, you may be the one that reaches breaking point first if there’s an argument. Your teenager may push your buttons, but you will be the one whose judgement is compromised and who may end up saying something destructive and hurtful.

Furthermore, your teenager won’t let you off lightly if it was your “habit” that made you the one without control.

set the pace I would advise parents of teenagers to curb their partying. As far as your teenager is concerned, you remain their role model and they are watching you. Do not think that your teenager won’t notice if you start falling around in a drunken state. Do not expect them to be impressed by your feverish, alcohol-fuelled Dirty Dancing routine or Madonna impersonation. You may think you have the moves like Jagger on the dance floor, but even the teenage daughter of the legendary Rolling Stone thinks he looks like an idiot when he struts his stuff. An innocent party can come back to haunt you if you let yourself get out of control. Think carefully about the example you want to set.

Gary Koen is a clinical psychologist in private practice with over 20 years’ experience, working mainly with adults and adolescents. He also does presentations at schools on a range of teenage-related topics. These include all the general aspects of normal adolescent development. He developed and successfully runs a course, “An introduction to adolescence”, aimed at parents. He is also working on a book that deals with the challenges facing parents and teenagers and, as a father of three, he is heavily invested in everything he says.

For more information, visit garykoen.co.za

magazine durban

April 2012

19

advertorial

book extract

Get friends and family together for a decadent brunch with these inspirational ideas from ALLISON BRAND and DEBBIE O’FLAHERTY.

Method

Beat together the eggs, seasoning, parsley, cream and butter in a large glass bowl.

Place the bowl over a pot of boiling water and place the pot lid on top of the egg mixture.

Allow the egg to cook, stirring with a whisk from time to time, until the egg has just cooked but is not dry.

Slice the ciabatta breadsticks down the middle three quarters of the way through. Fill each breadstick with half the scrambled egg mixture.

Slice each breadstick into nine portions.

Top with a ribbon of smoked salmon and a sprig of fresh dill.

Serve immediately.

Makes 18 portions.

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April 2012

Ingredients • 1½ cups Rice Krispies breakfast cereal • 1½ cups cooking chocolate discs • ⅓ cup desiccated coconut • 80 mini chocolate eggs Method Place the Rice Krispies in a large mixing bowl.

Melt the chocolate discs in the microwave for ± one minute on high (900W).

Mix the chocolate into the Rice Krispies.

Add the coconut and mix well until everything is coated in the chocolate.

Spray mini muffin-pan hollows with non-stick spray.

Spoon a generous tablespoon of the mixture into the muffin-pan hollows, pressing down with the back of a teaspoon or your fingers to create a nest shape. You do need to work quite quickly before the chocolate starts to set.

Place three mini eggs in each nest as you go, so they stick to the nests.

Refrigerate until set and then gently lever each nest out using the back of a butter knife.

Makes 25-27 nests.

PHOTOGRAPHS: kate miller / illustrations: shutterstock.com

Ingredients • 10 eggs • ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped • ¾ cup cream • 10g butter • 2 ciabatta sticks (thin ciabatta breads) • 200g packet smoked salmon or smoked trout • dill to garnish • salt and pepper to taste

magazine durban

Ingredients cake • 1 cup cake flour • 1¼ tsp baking powder • 1 cup desiccated coconut • ¾ cup poppy seeds • 3 large eggs • 1½ cups caster sugar • 2 x 175ml tubs plain yoghurt • ½ cup oil • zest of 1 lemon lemon curd filling • 2 large eggs • ⅓ cup caster sugar • zest and juice of 1 lemon • 50g butter, cubed icing • 360g (2 bars) white chocolate, broken into pieces • ¼ cup icing sugar • 10g butter • 2 tbsp milk • 1 tsp vanilla essence Method

Preheat oven to 180°C.

Stir

Grease and line a 20cm round cake pan.

Sift the flour and baking powder together.

Mix in the coconut and poppy seeds.

Beat the eggs and caster sugar together.

Add the yoghurt, oil, lemon zest and mix together.

Mix the flour mixture into the egg mixture and mix until well combined.

Pour the mixture into the cake pan and bake for about 50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean from the centre of the cake.

Allow

the cake to cool for five minutes in the

pan before turning it out to cool completely on a wire rack.

To make the lemon curd filling, break the eggs into a heat-proof glass bowl.

Add the caster sugar, lemon and butter.

Place the bowl over a pot of boiling

water.

Alternatively, use a double boiler if you have one.

magazine durban

the mixture from time to time as it thickens.

Remove from the heat when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Leave to cool.

Slice the cake in half and sandwich the two halves together with the lemon curd filling.

For the icing, melt the chocolate, sugar, butter and milk in the microwave for about 50 seconds on high (900W).

Stir until everything has melted completely and is well combined.

Mix in the vanilla essence.

Allow to cool slightly before pouring over the top of the cake.

Decorate the top with an assortment of chocolate Easter eggs, bunnies, flowers, poppy seeds or anything else you fancy to give it a festive, fun look.

about the book In this coffee-table book, Let’s Celebrate (Logogog Press), Allison Brand and Debbie O’Flaherty share their inspirational ideas for 16 different occasions – from a one-year-old’s birthday party to an elegant high tea.

They recommend a menu for each event, offer décor ideas and even suggest invite and gift options. The beauty is in the detail and care that the authors have put into every menu and table setting. The recipes are easy to follow with helpful tips for even the novice entertainer. Photographer Kate Miller brings the ideas to life with her beautiful images. This book is guaranteed to have you reaching for the calendar so that you can plan your own unforgettable event. It can be ordered from lets-celebrate.co.za or Kalahari, and is available at In Good Company in Parkhurst, Macaroon in Greenside, and the Baker’s Warehouse in Johannesburg.

April 2012

23

resource

who to call?

When your child is sick, or needs medical attention, it helps to know which health care practitioner to consult. By CHILD MAGAZINE

An audiologist evaluates and treats hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and auditory processing disorders by conducting a wide variety of tests. They also perform hearing-aid assessments and fittings, provide access to the latest hearing-aid technology and offer unbiased advice. An audiologist will assess hearing and identify hearing loss in children of any age, including newborns and infants, and will do hearing screening and diagnostic hearing tests with young children. They provide hearing therapy and fit hearing aids on babies and young children, where necessary.

The audiologist provides an assessment of balance to evaluate dizziness, and offers rehabilitation training. They also provide advice on how to protect your sense of hearing in noisy environments. It’s important for your older child in that the audiologist will be able to provide custom-fit moulds for swimming or sleeping, and earphones for sound devices and cellphones. When the hearing problem needs medical or surgical intervention, audiologists will refer patients to a medical doctor or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.

For the South African Association of Audiologists: visit audiologysa.co.za

chiropractor A chiropractor treats and manages backache, headaches (including neck pain, migraines, whiplash), sprains and strains, arthritis, joint pain and pregnancyrelated back pain by using manipulation,

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April 2012

dentistry emphasises the need to establish a trusting relationship with their young patients, so one of the main components of paediatric training is child psychology.

This manifests in special office designs, different communication styles and an emphasis on teaching preventive dental habits to children to make dental visits more enjoyable. For the South African Dental Association, contact: 011 484 5288 or visit sada.co.za

dietician soft tissue therapy and other techniques such as ice, ultrasound and exercise. The term chiropractic literally means “done by hand” and incorporates a drug-free, surgery-free approach. The treatment involves safe, gentle and specific manipulation of the spine and other areas of your body to unlock joints that are not moving correctly, to ensure greater and improved movement and to relieve pain in adults and children. For the Chiropractic Association of South Africa, contact: 058 303 4571 or visit chiropractic.co.za

dentist They provide preventive and restorative treatments for problems that affect the mouth and teeth. Paediatric dentistry focuses on childhood or adolescent growth and development, as well as the causes and prevention of disease. Some paediatric dentists also specialise in the care of “special needs” patients, such as those children with cerebral palsy, mental retardation and autism. Paediatric

A dietician promotes good health through proper, balanced eating, and interprets and communicates the science of nutrition to help people make informed and practical choices about food and lifestyle. Nutrition, a branch of dietetics, is the study of nutrients in food, how they are used by the body, and the relationship between diet, health and disease. Dieticians may also work in the food industry, in education and research or on a freelance basis. Professional advice from a doctor or dietician can help

an older child who is overweight or has eating problems. For the Association of Dietetics in South Africa, contact: 011 789 6621 or visit adsa.org.za

general practitioner (GP) Your family GP is generally the first medical professional to contact if you or your children are feeling ill. GPs assist with yearly checkups, coughs, colds and flu, pulled muscles, allergic reactions, ulcers, asthma and many other ailments.

They keep a record of your health, taking notice of any trends or tendencies in your condition. They treat a wide range of health issues, either acute or chronic, and provide health education for the whole family. Your GP might direct you to a specialist if they are unable to help you. For the South African Medical Association: visit sama.co.za

occupational therapist (OT) OTs help people with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities to carry out everyday activities, such as brushing their teeth or putting on shoes, so that they may lead as normal a life as possible. OTs help people who have conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, autism or other sensory processing disorders. OTs will conduct assessments of your child’s abilities, comparing them to children of the same age. They will often come to your home to observe how routine tasks are handled or meet you at the hospital. OTs will also help you get hold of aids, slings and splints, or other devices you may

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS AND ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

audiologist

need. For the Occupational Therapy Association of South Africa, contact: 012 362 5457 or visit otasa.org.za

For the South African Society of Otorhinolaryngology, contact: 011 340 9000 or visit entsociety.co.za

optometrist

paediatrician

Optometrists deal with conditions and diseases that affect the eyes. They conduct eye exams to assess your vision and are able to provide corrective eye wear. If you or your children experience blurred vision, lack of visual clarity, pain in your eyes, or if you have an eye injury, you would see an optometrist. If you require surgery or medication for eye diseases, an optometrist would refer you to a ophthalmologist. For the South African Optometric Association, contact: 011 805 4517 or visit saoa.co.za

Paediatricians deal with the physical, emotional and social wellbeing of babies, children and adolescents, from birth to 21 years. If your children need inoculations, their monthly checkups to monitor growth and development, or if they are suffering from ear infections and behavioural problems at school, a paediatrician will be able to assist you. There are specialist branches within paediatrics dealing with heart disease and cancer in children.

For the South African Paediatrics Association, contact: 011 340 9000 or visit paediatrician.co.za

or needs in a safe environment. This therapy therefore helps children to learn about their emotions, develop ways of dealing with problems and improve communication. For South African Play Therapy, contact: 012 667 5199 or visit playtherapysa.co.za

physiotherapist

psychiatrist

Specialists in physical therapy use various techniques to help with problems of movement and mobility. They treat people of all ages, starting from birth.

Diagnosis is usually by looking for healthrelated problems, such as illnesses or injuries, which affect the ability to move or function. Some of the methods used include massage, manipulating or moving muscles, hot and cold therapies, exercises, electrotherapy and relaxation techniques. Children who have suffered an injury or who experience difficulty or pain when moving would need to see a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy is also used to prevent injuries from recurring or getting worse. For The South African Society of Physiotherapy, contact: 011 615 3170 or visit physiosa.org.za

This is a specialist who works with and treats mental disorders that may be behavioural, cognitive or emotional such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Psychiatrists can also treat less severe mental disorders such as anxiety. As they are medical doctors, psychiatrists can prescribe medicine. Patients are usually referred to them when doctors or psychologists feel that they would benefit from medication. A psychiatrist would examine the patient, possibly performing tests such as psychological evaluations or neuroimaging, and then prescribe treatment. For the South African Society of Psychiatrists: visit sasop.co.za

otolaryngologist or ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialist ENTs specialise in problems with your ears, nose and throat and related areas of your head and neck. Consult one if you or your child experience hearing impairments, tonsil or adenoid infections, ear infections, irritated sinuses, breathing problems or respiratory allergies, throat problems that may cause speech and voice disorders or swallowing problems, or problems with smell or dizziness. They also do cosmetic surgery of the neck or head region. Many ENTs specialise in paediatric otolaryngology or sleep medicine.

magazine durban

play therapist In this therapy, play is used to help children deal with emotional and other issues. This is beneficial for children from about three to eight years old, who may struggle to understand or express their emotions. The therapist encourages the child to play with toys, games, clay or other mediums. Through this play, the child is able to express herself and come to terms with feelings, fears, wishes

psychologist Psychology is concerned with studying, assessing and treating mental health disorders. There are different types of psychologists, including clinical psychologists and counsellors. These specialists work with people to understand how they think and behave in certain situations so that they can address any potential issues. These may include behavioural, emotional, functioning or even personality disorders.

Psychologists use therapy to work with their patients. They are not medical

doctors and cannot prescribe medicine.

However, if a psychologist feels that a patient requires medication, they will refer you to a psychiatrist. People who have difficulty dealing with stressful events, such as divorce or trauma, may want to see a psychologist to help them cope.

For the Psychological Association of South Africa, contact: 011 486 3322 or visit psyssa.com

speech therapist This therapist is concerned with how people communicate and associated disorders. They assess the physical production of sounds as well as the ability to understand and use language. In children, speech therapy usually involves meeting any developmental milestones that may have been delayed. Therapists accomplish this by using various exercises such as language interaction, sound production exercises or oral exercises to train facial and oral muscles.

Children who may need speech therapy include those with hearing impairments, developmental delays, physical birth defects such as a cleft palate, breathing or swallowing disorders or weak oral muscles. Children show more progress when speech therapy is started early, or before they are five years old. For the South African Speech-LanguageHearing Association, contact: 0861 113 297 or visit saslha.co.za For health practitioners in your area, visit childmag.co.za/resources/ healthcare-practitioners

April 2012

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books

a good read for toddlers

for preschoolers

This Book belongs to Aye-Aye

By Richard Byrne (Published by Oxford University Press, R136) Miss Deer is holding a competition to find the most helpful animal in her class. There’s a prize for the winner, but someone isn’t playing fair. In this story of the Good, the Bad, and the Fluffy, it will be Aye-Aye who wins your heart. Previously confined to the pages of natural history books, the aye-aye (a type of lemur that hails from Madagascar) makes its debut in a picture book. Richard Byrne’s Aye-Aye will melt your heart with his big eyes and ready smile. This is an entertaining story with a “whodunit?” twist for the youngest reader. It also delivers the important message that kindness and helpfulness will always prevail.

My Fold Out Words

By Roger Priddy (Published by Priddy Books, R33) Babies and toddlers will love to learn first words with this bright, bold board book. It features one long, concertina page, printed on both sides, which is perfect for unfolding on the floor for little ones to look at. With full-colour photographs of fun and familiar things, such as a ball, dog, shoes, apple, cat, train, duck, baby and a car, you can get your toddler to point out the correct pictures as you name them. This board book is also very sturdy, making it easy for little fingers to handle, and it can be wiped clean.

Rod Campbell’s Nursery Book

By Rod Campbell (Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R81)

essentia l for ever y nursery

This book is filled with rhymes and games to share with your toddler. It has traditional verses such as Incy Wincy Spider and Pat-a-Cake, as well as brand new rhymes. The book has over 25 flaps to lift, so your toddler can interact with the rhymes while you read. Appealing illustrations and an easy-to-read text make this a must-have book. The author has been involved in children’s books since 1980, and he was one of the first authors to create innovative books for children under five with liftable flaps and other elements.

The Bippolo Seed and Other Lost Stories

By Dr Seuss

Who’s Afraid of the Dark

By Dianne Stewart (Published by Jacana Media, R44) This book brings together two of South Africa’s most gifted children’s story telling talents – Joan Rankin and Dianne Stewart.

Stewart has worked extensively in the field of oral tradition. This inspired many of her children’s books including The Dove and The Gift of the Sun, with the latter also being translated into Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, French, Spanish, Xhosa, Zulu, Afrikaans and South Korean. In this offering, Sanele is afraid of the dark. She hears strange noises and can’t sleep. She thinks there are monsters under her bed and a lion in the house. What will help Sanele sleep at night?

(Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R48) This book is indeed special – a collection of lost stories by Dr Seuss featuring tales about a scheming feline and a greedy duck; a rabbit who is saved from a hungry bear by a single eyelash; a goldfish who grows as big as a whale; a set of twins who don’t always agree; an Ikka, a Gritch, a Grickle, a Nupper and a pair of Wild Wheef in search of a tasty dinner; a small spot that becomes a gigantic splotch of a problem and a boy with wonderfully wacky career fantasies. Originally published in magazines in the 1950s, these stories are highly entertaining, beautifully written and fascinating – truly rediscovered treasures.

book shelf must-have

Feathers & Fur

By Audrey Penn and Monica Wyrick (Published by Tanglewood Press, R95) “Feathers and fur don’t mix!” squawk a pair of ducks when they see Tuesday the cat licking his chops over a nest of eggs. But when Tuesday sees the eggs in danger from a storm, he takes heroic action, and lifelong friendships result in spite of their major differences. This heart-warming story was inspired by real events in the author’s own neighbourhood, and yes, Tuesday and the now-grown ducks are still close friends. The author is best known for The Kissing Hand, the story of a little raccoon who was too scared to go to school and how his mom helped ease his fears.

for early graders My Little Book of Life Cycles

By Camilla de la Bédoyère (Published by Don Nelson, South Africa, R130) How do sunflowers begin and how do tadpoles swim?

Packed with fascinating facts about life cycles, with amazing photographs of every stage and labelled diagrams to explain growth and development, this book reveals everything about beginnings. It comes with important notes to parents and teachers on how to use the book interactively, how science can be tackled as a subject at home, which places to visit to see nature in action, how to observe nature and how to teach your child respect for wild life. There are activities, as well as a glossary where certain difficult words are explained.

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April 2012

t

laugh ou loud

Grubtown Tales: When Bunnies Turn Bad

By Philip Ardagh (Published by Faber Children’s Books, R75) If Beardy Ardagh is to be believed, the trouble begins when a monkey escapes from The Grubtown Old Folks Home, or when The Sun-Ripe Raisin Man decides to give up shrivelled dried grapes to grow vegetables instead. Whatever the beginning, it all ends up with far too many bunny rabbits and a serious problem with paper aeroplanes. Philip Ardagh shows just what it is that would make any sane person avoid visiting Grubtown, for business or pleasure, at all costs and exactly why fun-loving readers, of all ages, should head straight for a shelf of Grubtown Tales.

magazine durban

for teenagers

for us special mention

Good in a Crisis: A Memoir

By Margaret Overton

Solomon’s Story

By Judy Froman

Kidnap in the Caribbean

By Lauren St John

(Published by Pan MacMillan, R90) To help his family survive, Solomon sells apples in Mamelodi. It is 1976, and the closure of schools after the Soweto riots leaves Solomon and his friends with few choices. They can either accept their place in apartheid South Africa or leave the country to try and force change from beyond its borders. Solomon chooses to fight for freedom abroad and embarks on a life in exile as a member of Umkhonto we Sizwe. A year later, he is sent back to South Africa as an operative, with tragic consequences. Solomon’s Story is a fictional account of the true story of Solomon Mahlangu, a young hero who paid the ultimate price in his contribution to South Africa’s freedom. The book is recommended for children 11 and older.

(Published by Orion Children’s Books, R135) From Cornwall to the Caribbean, 11-yearold ace detective Laura Marlin comes face to face with pirates, sharks, criminal masterminds and an erupting volcano in her second mystery adventure, which follows the Blue Peter award-winning first book Dead Man’s Cove. Laura cannot contain her excitement when she wins a trip to the Caribbean for herself and her uncle, Calvin Redfern, especially when her best friend, Tariq, and her three-legged husky, Skye, accidentally find themselves on board too. As soon as they board mysteries begin to pile up and when they dock at Antigua, they discover that Calvin has vanished, and Laura and Tariq are about to be kidnapped by the fearsome Straight A gang.

Time Twisters: Cape of Slaves

By Sam Roth

Be Your Own Personal Trainer

By Eddie Lambert (Published by Metz Press, R176) This book gives you all the advantages of having your own personal trainer without the challenges of scheduling, possible personality clashes and being tied to a specific gym or venue. It demonstrates more than 250 graded exercises using body weight and widely accessible basic equipment, highlighting the muscle groups used for every exercise and explaining pitfalls and injury risks. These are then combined in 26 user-friendly programmes. The individual exercises in the routines are interchangeable, giving you even wider scope, and many of the exercises have interesting variations, as well as more difficult levels for progression. Special training programmes for pregnancy have also been included.

parenting books

proudly South African

(Published by Puffin Books, R100) Sarah is a normal 12-year-old girl, with pale skin, a dark ponytail and a skew nose.

But things change when she is transported back to the time of witch-hunts through a library book picture.

Knowing she needs to meet other time twisters like herself, she finds cool dude, Toby, and science geek, Bones. Together they decide to risk their lives to rescue a missing girl, last seen in front of a painting at the Cape of Slaves Exhibition. It is an adventure that will leave them all changed forever. Will they find her in the past? Will they be sold as slaves? And will the portal in the painting stay open long enough for them to get back to the present?

You, Me and Thing: The Curse of the Jelly Babies and The Dreaded Noodle-Doodles

By Karen McCombie (Published by Faber Children’s Books, R75 and R80) From bestselling children’s author, Karen McCombie, comes a funny, utterly irresistible illustrated series about friendship, secrets and an adorable Thing. Next-door neighbours Ruby and Jackson get the surprise of their lives when they discover Thing living at the bottom of their gardens. And when Thing places a curse on the inhabitants of the new house that’s been built over his old home, Ruby and Jackson find themselves up to their eyeballs in jelly babies, magic and big trouble. In the second book, Thing comes to their school, and Ruby and Jackson are mixed up in a terrible tangle of noodle-doodles.

magazine durban

(Published by Bloomsbury Publishing, R176) During the four years of physician Margaret Overton’s acrimonious divorce, she dated widely and sometimes indiscriminately, determined to find her soul mate and live happily ever after. But then she discovered she had a brain aneurysm. She realised it at a particularly awkward moment on a date with a Mr Wrong. Overton had been so busy looking after the needs of others that she had forgotten to look after herself. So she set out on a course to take control of her future and finally become independent of men. Good in a Crisis is Overton’s laugh-out-loud account of dealing with the most serious of life’s problems: loss of life, loss of love and loss of innocence.

reality check

Jo Frost’s Confident Baby Care and Jo Frost’s Confident Toddler Care

By Jo Frost (Published by Orion Books, R150 and R230) Who better than Jo Frost, the UK’s most trusted nanny, to help you during the amazing first year of your new baby’s life and the challenging but exciting toddler years? She gives sound advice and practical help on a range of topics, including sleeping, feeding, weaning, teething, playing, healthy eating, tantrums, sibling rivalry, play dates, life skills, nursery and childcare, positive communication, praise and encouragement, milestones and creating routines. Jo’s indispensable baby know-how will help all parents and co-carers of newborns feel more confident, creating happiness as you and your baby grow together. And the toddler book will help parents create a thriving and peaceful home, taking the dread away from the terrible twos and troublesome threes.

Alcohol Nation

By Dr Aric Sigman (Published by Penguin Books, R215) We are a nation that loves to drink and we’re passing the habit on to our children. But a growing body of compelling new evidence will force us to reconsider the entire way we view alcohol and young people. It suggests that early exposure to alcohol in particular has a direct effect on brain cells, brain size, intellectual ability and school performance, future fertility and the way our genes function. It also warns that binge drinking may actually cause depression, and is linked to early and risky sex, and being a victim of accidents and crime. In this essential book, Dr Aric Sigman ties up the latest medical research and puts the findings into context.

April 2012

27

calendar

what’s on in april

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

who to see. Compiled by TAMLYN VINCENT.

7

FUN FOR CHILDREN – p29

ONLY FOR PARENTS – p31

Akimbo Kids This play and party venue offers outside play areas and farmyard animals.

Don’t Burst my Bublé Relax for an evening with the music of awardwinning artist Michael Bublé.

bump, baby & tot in tow – p32

how to help – p32

Toptots Children and babies learn through play while bonding with their parents.

Mosaics with a Heart Create something bright and beautiful for women’s and children’s shelters.

sat

SPECIAL EVENTS – p29 Easter Quest at the Heritage Market Join in the Easter Eggspedition, with fun activities for children and a visit from the Easter bunny.

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April 2012

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / Splashy Fen Music FestivaL – Deon Maritz / I heart market – Lee Folkard

Here’s your guide for what to do, where to go and

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 sunday Gold bunny fun There are fun activities, Easter egg hunts and more with the Lindt gold bunny. 30 March–8 April. Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: Musgrave Centre.

Cost: free. For more info: visit facebook. com/LindtChocolateSouthAfrica

2 monday The SA Basic Education Conference This conference is geared towards teachers and the theme this year is “opening the doors to quality education for all”. Ends 4 April. Time: 8am. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: varies. For more info: visit education– conference.co.za

5 thursday Don’t Burst my Bublé Jonothan Didlick per forms spellbinding songs from Grammy award-winning artist Michael Bublé. Ends 8 April. Time: 8pm, Thursday– Friday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Stirling Theatre, The Italian Club, Durban North.

Cost: R80. Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@stirlingtheatre.co.za Easter at Berea Centre There is entertainment for the children and a visit from the Easter bunny. Time: 11am–1pm.

Venue: Berea Centre, 249–257 Berea Rd. Cost: free. Contact centre management: 031 277 0840

6 friday Atomic junkies Marvel at the actionpacked displays of adrenalin sports such as skateboarding, stunt riding and BMX riding. Meet local and international sports stars. Ends 8 April. Time: 10am–6pm.

Venue: Sun Plaza, Suncoast Casino. Cost: adults R50, children R25. Contact René: rene@tepg.co.za

7 saturday Easter quest at The Heritage Market Fun activities include making Easter cards and bunny ears, decorating cupcakes, face painting and balloon sculpting. Children can see farmyard animals or take a pony ride. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: The Heritage Market, Hillcrest. Cost: R30. Contact: 031 765 2500 or visit heritagehillcrest.co.za Food Garden Workshop Learn about different aspects of permaculture and organic gardening. Also 28 April. Time: 8:30am–3pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: R150. Contact: 031 322 4021/19 or dbginfo@durban.gov.za

Time: 8pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R140–R250. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

5

12 thursday The Chilli Boy Matthew Ribnick tells the hysterical story of an old Indian woman reincarnated as a white gangster from Boksburg. His flashbacks to his previous life are threatening to ruin his reputation.

Ends 22 April. Time: 8pm; 6pm, Sunday.

Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood. Cost: R120, R60 Thursday and Sunday. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

13 friday Tiny Handz basic sign language training Learn this valuable skill. 13 April: intermediate workshops. 14 April: basic workshops. Time: 8:30am–3:30pm.

Venue: tbc in Pietermaritzburg and Durban. Cost: varies. For more info: visit tinyhandz.co.za

thurs

Splashy Fen Music Festival More than 70 top live acts rock the southern Drakensberg over Easter. There are also fun outdoor activities, food and craft vendors, children’s entertainment and a separate camp site for families. Time: varies. Venue: outside Underberg. Cost: R500, children 4–11 R125. Contact: 031 563 0824 or visit splashyfen.co.za

28 saturday Ice Revue from Russia This dazzling fantasy on ice has stars perform wonderful and comic acts on the points of their blades. Also 29 April. Time: 1pm and 5pm, Saturday; 12pm and 4pm, Sunday. Venue: Durban Ice Rink, 81 Somtseu Rd, Durban. Cost: R130– R250. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

15 sunday Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert See the Parlotones on stage. Time: 1pm.

Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 322 4021/19, dbginfo@durban.gov.za or book through webtickets.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN

17 tuesday

art, culture and science

Monkey Nuts A comedy about Edgar Chambers, an odd-bod banker obsessed with entering competitions. Ends 18 April.

Time: 8pm. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood. Cost: R60.

Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

African Art Centre View the work of a variety of artists. Time: 8:30am–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–3pm, Saturday.

Venue: Florida Rd. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 312 3804/5 or visit afriart.org.za Port Natal Maritime Museum Take in the maritime and shipping history of Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. Time: 8:30am–3:45pm, Monday–Saturday; 11am–3:45pm, Sunday and public holidays. Venue: Samora Machel St, Durban. Cost: free. Contact: 031 311 2231

21 saturday Highbury Founder’s Day Past and present Highbury boys and their families enjoy a day of entertainment including music, rugby and lunch. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: Highbury Preparatory School, Hillcrest. Cost: free entry. Contact: alumni@hps.co.za Kloof Country Market health expo Find a range of health specialists and products, including massage therapists and teething beads. Time: 9am–12:30pm.

Venue: Robyndale Centre, 10 Msenga Rd, Kloof. Cost: free. Contact Linda: 082 454 3181 or linda@healinghandskzn.co.za

17 and 18 April – Monkey Nuts

23 monday What parents should know about learning An informative workshop covering different learning styles, getting children organised and effective emotional and study skills support. Time: 6pm. Venue: Equal Zeal, Durban North. Cost: individuals R150, couples R250. Contact Claudette: 031 266 9382, 082 331 3434 or jordan. psychologist@gmail.com

27 friday Dance Mania Enthusiasts can appreciate Indian dance in this extravaganza. Ends 29 April. Time: 8pm; 3pm, Sunday.

Venue: The Izulu Theatre, Sibaya, Umdloti.

Cost: R100 – R120. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

9 monday Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo In this movie Pooh, Roo and Tigger want to play, but Rabbit wants the spring-cleaning finished first. Roo’s wisdom shows Rabbit that special days should be spent with special friends. Time: 10am. Venue: Disney Junior, DStv Channel 309. For more info: visit disney.co.za/disney–junior

11 wednesday East Coast Comedy Festival See some of South Africa’s best comedians including Kevin Perkins as Michael Naicker, Joey Rasdien and Marc Lottering. Ends 12 April. magazine durban

27 fri

Music in the Mountains It’s a privilege to enjoy the talents of the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir on home turf. See them perform with guest artists. Ends 30 April. Time: varies. Venue: Drakensberg Boys’ Choir, R600 past Winterton. Cost: free entry, shows R110.

Contact Lauren: 036 468 1012, bookings@dbchoir.co.za or Steven: 084 707 3193, festivals@dbchoir.co.za or visit dbchoir.co.za

classes, talks and workshops Core 4 Kids Action-filled classes build upper body and core muscle strength. The fun activities challenge different body parts and help children build the foundation for a strong body. For children 6–9 years old.

Time: 2pm–3pm or 3pm–4pm, Monday and Tuesday. Venue: Danville Ave, Glenashley.

Cost: R70. Contact Michaela: 074 101 2616 Drumming for families Begin a rhythmical adventure. Drumming sessions include the hire of the drum, beginner’s lessons and instruction from facilitators.

Time: 4pm–5pm, every Sunday. Venue: tbc. Cost: R30. Contact: 083 704 4879 French for Kids A new term starts 16 April for French language discovery workshops.

Time: varies. Venue: Alliance Francaise, 22 Sutton Crescent, Morningside. Cost: R500 per term. Contact Shelley or Denise: 031 312 9582, afdbn@global.co.za or visit alliance.org.za Get ready for school and study skills courses Time: varies. Venue: 125 Ridgeton Towers, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556, tracy@kipumhlanga.co.za or visit kipmcgrath.co.za Yoga for children This form of exercise develops strength and flexibility while April 2012

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calendar improving concentration and coordination.

Time: 3pm, every Friday. Venue: Centre of Wellbeing, 16 Canberra Ave, Durban North. Cost: R40. Contact Angela: 076 410 1410 or angela@rautenbach.co.za

i heart market Hand and home-made crafts for the whole family. 7 April. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Masabalala Yengwe Ave, Stamford Hill. Contact: thejoyteam@gmail.com

7

family outings Book Fair Find popular children’s books at affordable prices. Time: 10am–3:30pm, 16 April; 7:30am–2pm, 17 April.

Venue: Gordon Rd Girls’ School, also at Pitlochry Senior Primary 12–13 April and Hillcrest Christian Academy 18–19 April.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 907 1573, info@books2you.co.za or visit books2you.co.za Moses Mabhida Stadium Enjoy fun family activities. Time: 9am–6pm, daily. Venue: Masabalala Yengwa Ave, Stamford Hill. Cost: varies, depending on activity. Contact: 031 582 8242 or visit mosesmabhidastadium.co.za Umgeni Steam Railway The train travels through the Valley of 1000 Hills. 29 April.

Time: 8:30am and 12:30pm. Venue: Stoker’s Arms, Kloof Station. Cost: adults R150, children R120. Contact: 087 808 7715 or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play 1000 Hills Bird Park Meet rare and exotic birds in this well-kept park, or take a ride on the zip line. Time: 8am–4pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: 1 Clement Stott Rd, Botha’s Hill. Cost: adults R25, children

26 March–5 April – Computer workshops

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April 2012

sat

R15. Contact: 072 927 8242 or visit 1000hillsbirdpark.co.za Akimbo Kids This is a play venue with a large open playground and separate toddler play area. For children 1–7 years.

Time: 9am–4pm, Tuesday–Thursday; 9am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday. Venue: Drummond. Cost: R20 entry for children.

For more info: visit akimbo.co.za The Barn Swallows Witness this birding phenomenon before they return to Europe at the end of April. Take chairs, drinks, snacks and mosquito repellent. Time: 5pm.

Venue: swallow view site, Mt Moreland, Umdloti. Cost: R10 donation. Contact: 031 568 1557 or visit barnswallows.co.za

holiday programmes Computer workshops For Grades R–7 or high school learners. 26 March–5 April.

Time: varies. Venue: 125 Ridgeton Towers, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 1110, umhlanga@computers4kids. co.za or visit computers4kids.co.za Easter holiday cooking classes Join in fun Tots n Pots children’s cooking classes.

Days to be confirmed. Time: tbc. Venue: 10 Ward Rd, Overport. Contact Bahia: 082 493 8072 or bahia@totsnpots.co.za Holiday Boot Camp Fun physical activities develop children’s motor skills and problem solving skills. 2–4 April. Time: 8am–1:30pm.

Venue: Boot Camp SA, Giba Valley. Cost: 3 days R650, 1 day R250. Contact: 082 782 6432 or durban@bootcamp-sa.co.za JB holiday care Join in fun, wholesome activities and outdoor play. 22 March–5 April.

Time: 7:30pm–5pm. Venue: 62 Silverton Rd, Berea. Cost: R80 a day. Contact Lilian: 083 242 1677 or lilianrez@hotmail.com KZN Sciencentre holiday programme Children explore science and the world around them. The Early Childhood Development programme is for moms and tots. Planetarium shows are for the young and old. 1–10 April. Time: 9am–7pm.

Venue: KZN Sciencentre, Gateway. Cost: R15–R30. Contact: 031 566 8040, info@ sciencentre.co.za or visit sciencentre.co.za Sugar Bay holiday camps Week-long holiday camps with themes such as Sherlock Holmes week and Up week. 25 March–

29 April. Time: varies. Venue: Zinkwazi Beach, North Coast. Cost: varies. Contact: 032 485 3778, holidays@sugarbay.co.za or visit sugarbay.co.za

markets Essenwood Market Fresh food, children’s activities and stalls. Time: 9am–2pm, every Saturday. Venue: Essenwood Rd. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 208 1264 or visit essenwoodmarket.com Farmers’ Market Non-refrigerated fresh produce. Time and venue: 9am–1pm, Prestondale, every Wednesday; 9am–12pm, Jimmy Bellows Sports Field, Westville, every Thursday. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 840 2646 or underwood@telkomsa.net Golden Hours Family Market Fundraising initiative of Golden Hours Special School.

Time: 10am–3:30pm, every Sunday. Venue: Uitsig Rd, Durban North. Cost: free entry.

Contact Lyn: 083 262 3693 Heidi’s Farm Stall market For cakes, coffee crafts. Time: 7am–1pm, every Saturday and Sunday. Venue: 1 Clement Stott Rd, Assagay. Cost: free entry. Contact: 072 927 8242 or raredleg@iafrica.com Karkloof Farmers’ Market Special Easter markets have fresh produce, gifts and craft stalls. Time: 7am–11am, every Saturday. Venue: Karkloof Rd, after Howick.

Cost: free entry. Contact Kim: 082 851 8649, kim@karklooffarmersmarket.co.za or visit karklooffarmersmarket.co.za Kloof Country Market Find quality products and home-made goods. 7 and 21 April. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: Robyndale Centre, 10 Msenga Rd, Kloof.

Cost: free entry. Contact Linda: 082 454 3181 or linda@healinghandskzn.co.za Shongweni Farmers’ and Craft Market Organic and local produce and crafts. Time: 6:30am–10am, every Saturday. Venue: cnr Kassier Rd and Alverstone Rd, Assagay. Cost: free entry. Contact Christine: 083 777 1674 or info@shongwenimarket.co.za Stables Lifestyle Market Crafts, décor, fashion, toys, books and more. Time: 6pm–10pm, every Wednesday and Friday; 10am–5pm, every Sunday. Venue: 9 Jacko Jackson Dr, Stamford Hill. Cost: free entry.

Contact Marc: 084 353 5866 The food market For locally produced foods. 28 April. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, Durban

magazine durban

1–10 April – KZN Sciencentre holiday programme

North. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 505 0113, info@thefoodmarket.co.za or visit thefoodmarket.co.za The Litchi Orchard Farmers’ Market Covered market featuring live music and a children’s playground. 7 and 21 April.

Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Seaforth Ave, Foxhill. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 205 6151 or jeremy@litchiorchard.co.za Umhlanga Antiques Fair 15 April. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Umhlanga Centre, 189 Ridge Rd, Umhlanga Rocks. Cost: free entry. Contact: James: 082 821 9031 Wonder Market There is something for everyone, from stilt walkers to vintage jewellery. 1 April. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Chris Saunders Park, Gateway. Cost: free entry. Contact Tarryn: 079 747 7661, wonder@ wondermarket.co.za or visit wondermarket.co.za

on stage and screen Dance Mania Enthusiasts are bound to enjoy this Indian dance extravaganza. 27–29 April. Time: 8pm; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: The Izulu Theatre, Sibaya, Umdloti. Cost: R100–R120. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Ice Revue from Russia 28–29 April. Time: 1pm and 5pm, Saturday; 12pm and

magazine durban

4pm, Sunday. Venue: Durban Ice Rink, 81 Somtseu Rd, Durban. Cost: R130–R250.

Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Mr Young This new series features Adam Young, a child prodigy with a college degree at 14 years old. He is about to start work as a high school science teacher and has to find some middle ground between the staff room and the lunch room. 1 April. Time: 8am. Venue: Disney XD, DStv Channel 304.

For more info: visit disneyxd.co.za Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert The Parlotones perform. 15 April. Time: 1pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 322 4021/19, dbginfo@durban.gov.za or book through webtickets.co.za Rocking All Over the World 18 March–29 April. Time: varies. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: Wednesday–Saturday R135, Tuesday and Sunday R100. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za The Big Hunt The hunt is on for the golden eggs. Children also get the chance to meet the Easter bunny, join in sing-alongs and dancing and get creative with crafts and painting. 26 March–5 April. Time: 11am, Monday–Friday. Venue: Rhumbelow Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo. Cost: R50. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo This time, Roo shows Rabbit that special days should be spent with special friends, after Rabbit cancels Easter. 9 April. Time: 10am. Venue: Disney Junior, DStv Channel 309. For more info: visit disney.co.za/ disney–junior

Venue: 26 Rockview Rd, Amanzimtoti.

Cost: free. Contact: 031 903 6692 or thebookboutique@gmail.com Steam train rides Ride a miniature steam engine at the Durban Society of Model Engineers. 8 and 22 April. Time: 11am–4pm. Venue: 4 Hinton Grove, Virginia. Cost: R5 per ride. Contact Gerald: 031 205 1089 or 082 569 1383

sport and physical activities Westwood Paintball An indoor, allweather paintball arena offers a secure venue for this adrenalin-pumping strategy game. Time: varies depending on booking.

Venue: Westwood Shopping Mall, Lincoln Terrace. Cost: R100 for one hour and 100 paintballs. Contact Simine: 082 556 5540 or siminekh@gmail.com

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Aquacise class Time: 4pm, Monday and Wednesday. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: R260 per month. Contact: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or info@lasting-impressionsstudio.co.za Ladies’ body stretch Exercise classes for ladies. Time: 8:10am, Monday and

on stage and screen

playtime and story time Book Club Children discuss books they have read. Time: 3pm, every Friday. Venue: La Lucia Library, behind La Lucia Mall. Cost: free. Contact: 031 572 2986 Books and Books story time Children listen to fun stories. Time: 10am–11am, every Saturday. Venue: Kensington Square, Durban North. Cost: free. Contact: 031 563 6288 or visit booksandbooks.co.za Children’s story time A story is followed by a craft or activity. For ages 3–8 years. Time: 10am, every Saturday.

Wednesday. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: R260 per month. Contact Alison: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or info@lasting-impressionsstudio.co.za Lasting Impressions’ business network Meet and network with other professionals. 20 April. Time: 8am–10am.

Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: R120. Contact: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or info@lastingimpressions-studio.co.za Moms IT lessons 30 March–5 April. Time: 9am–1pm, Tuesday or Thursday. Venue: 125 Ridgeton Towers, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: R150 per hour. Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556, umhlanga@computers4kids. co.za or visit computers4kids.co.za Mosaic classes Enjoy a fun-filled evening creating your own mosaics.

Time: 5:30pm–8pm, every Thursday.

Venue: 87 Abrey Rd, Kloof. Cost: R85 per class. Contact Colyn: 082 799 2318, colynmoonsami@gmail.com or visit colynmoonsami-mosaics.yola.com Oil painting workshop Gain basic knowledge of oil painting as well as practical step-by-step aids to inspire you. 27 April. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: 8 Turkeyberry Lane, Simbithi Eco Estate, Ballito. Cost: R500 or R600. Contact Jane: 032 946 1339, 082 486 2126 or blacklaw@telkomsa.net

Old Mutual Music at the Lake Concert

Don’t Burst my Bublé Jonothan Didlick performs Grammy award-winning songs by Michael Bublé. 5, 6 and 8 April. Time: 8pm, Thursday–Friday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Stirling Theatre, The Italian Club, Durban North. Cost: R80. Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@stirlingtheatre.co.za East Coast Comedy Festival See some of South Africa’s best comedians at work.

11 and 12 April. Time: 8pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R140–R250. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Monkey Nuts The play presents a line-up of hysterical characters all connected to Edgar in some way. 17 and 18 April. Time: 8pm. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood. Cost: R60. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

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calendar

12–22 April – The Chilli Boy

The Chilli Boy Matthew Ribnick plays an old Indian woman reincarnated as a white gangster from Boksburg. 12–22 April.

Time: 8pm; 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood.

Cost: R120, Thursday R60. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

support groups Adhasa Meetings are irregular. For details of Adhasa meeting times and support, contact Stuart: 031 298 8896 or Robin: 082 499 1344 Al Anon and Alateen Support groups for those affected by alcohol. For more info contact: 031 304 1826 or visit alanon.org.za Cansa Durban North Meets the second Tuesday of every month. Venue: Durban North Methodist Church Hall. Contact: 031 564 2510 (for Cansa support groups in other areas call 031 205 9525) Childhood cancer parent support group Choc schedules regular support meetings. Contact Gill: 084 831 3683 or visit choc.org.za Child Welfare Durban and District They provide support, development and care for orphaned or abandoned babies, as well as counselling for birth parents.

They also investigate and manage cases of neglect and abuse. For more info, contact: 031 312 9313 or childwelfaredurban.org.za Compassionate Friends A support group for family and friends who have lost a loved one. Meet the fourth Sunday

Speak Easy support group

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April 2012

of every month. Time: 3pm–5pm. Venue: Absa premises, 20 Hunter St, Durban CBD. Contact: 031 335 0463 or 082 458 3663 Depression and Anxiety South Africa For referral to the relevant support group, contact the national helpline: 0800 205 121 Down Syndrome Association KZN Intuthuko support group meeting for those with Down’s syndrome and their families.

Contact: 031 464 2055 or 076 978 9811 Durban Autism Support group for mothers of children with ASD. Informal coffee mornings are held four times a year.

Contact Di: 083 443 8385 or dimaitland@ tiscali.co.za Famsa Seek family and relationship counselling from this group. Contact: 031 202 8987 or visit 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood, Durban Hi Hopes A home intervention programme for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Contact: 082 897 1632, dianne.goring@ hihopes.co.za or visit hihopes.co.za Hoping is Coping Support groups for those newly diagnosed with cancer and their families. Contact: 011 646 5628, lgold@icon.co.za or visit cansa.org.za Overeaters Anonymous Where members can share solutions to the problem of compulsive overeating. Contact: 031 708 6014 or 083 456 6971 Pflag parent support group For parents of gay and lesbian children. 24 April. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Amanzimtoti Group Activities Room. Cost: free. Contact Martin: 082 853 7235 Reach for Recovery Breast Cancer Support Group They meet for bringand-share morning teas. Contact: 031 205 9525 or 072 248 0008 Sadag This group assists those suffering from depression or drug abuse or who may be suicidal. For more info or referral to a support group: visit sadag.co.za Speak Easy This group is geared for those who stutter, their family and friends.

Contact Imraan: 082 786 3718 or visit speakeasy.org.za

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Hypnobirthing Expectant couples learn an alternative birthing option. 4, 11, 18 and 25 April and 2 May. Time: 6pm–8:30pm.

Venue: Durban North Children’s Medical Centre. Cost: R1 300 per couple. Contact Patti: 079 220 2639, patti@babyjourney. com or visit durbanhypnobirthing.co.za Infant massage class This is a four-session class that teaches easy techniques. Time: varies depending on booking. Venue: varies. Cost: depends on venue and class size.

Contact Dana: 076 387 5425, peace@nurture-now.com or visit nurture-now.com Infant massage workshops Time: 2pm, every Wednesday. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville.

Cost: four workshops R600. Contact: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or info@lastingimpressions-studio.co.za Moms and baby yoga Sign up for interactive classes for moms and babies

to learn about postures, breathing and relaxation. Time: 1pm, every Thursday.

Venue: Centre for Wellbeing, 16 Canberra Ave, Durban North. Cost: R170 per month.

Contact Angela: 076 410 1410 or angela@ rautenbach.co.za Pregnancy yoga Practise beneficial postures, breathing techniques and relaxation if you’re a mom-to-be. Time: 4pm, every Wednesday; 9:30am, every Saturday. Venue: Centre of Wellbeing, 16 Canberra Ave, Durban North. Cost: R170 a month. Contact Angela: 076 410 1410 or angela@rautenbach.co.za

playtime and story time Clamber Club Children can play on the fun equipment and in the garden.

Time: 12pm–4:30pm, every Friday. Venue: Hellenic Community Centre, 6 High Grove Rd, Durban North. Cost: R30. Contact Yasmin: 083 785 4332, dbn-north@ clamberclub.com or visit clamberclub.com Lucky Bean This safe children’s playground has an undercover playbarn and a coffee shop for parents. Time: 9am–4pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: 10 Cadmoor Rd, Assagay. Cost: first child R20, second child R15. Contact Donnae: 079 893 8448, info@luckybean.co or visit luckybean.co Moms and Tots and Moms and Babes workshops Time: varies. Venue: branches in Amanzimtoti, Umhlanga, Durban North, Highway area and Glenwood. Cost: varies.

Contact: info@momsandtots.co.za or visit momsandbabes.co.za or momsandtots.co.za Muslimahs and Tots workshops Interactive programmes build relationships through play; geared towards Muslim parents. Time: varies. Venue: branches in North Beach, Overport and Umhlanga. Cost: varies. Contact: muslimahsandtots.co.za Story time at La Lucia Library Join other moms and tots for a children’s story. Time: 3pm, every Thursday. Venue: 1 Library Lane, behind La Lucia Mall.

Cost: free. Contact: 031 572 2986 Toptots Children 8 weeks–4 years can join age-appropriate classes to learn and play.

Time: varies. Venue: branches in Durban North, Ballito, Glenwood, Kloof, Hillcrest, Westville and Hilton. Cost: varies. Contact:

031 266 4910, 082 876 7791, info@ toptots.co.za or visit toptots.co.za

support groups Durban New Moms support group This is geared for moms of babies and toddlers. Time: 9:30am, every Friday.

Venue: Durban North. Cost: free. Contact Alexandra: 031 562 9253 or 083 788 0689 La Leche League Benefit from this breast-feeding support organisation.

Contact Jane: 031 309 1801 or visit llli. org/southafrica Mothers 2 Baby New and older moms, who are finding motherhood challenging, can enjoy their support. Booking essential.

Time: 10am–11:30am, every third Thursday of the month. Venue: Hillcrest Private Hospital, Kassier Rd. Cost: free.

Contact Hayley: 078 640 7949 The South African Multiple Birth Association Families with multiples can share experiences and advice.

Contact: 082 338 2625. For counselling: kzn @ samultiplebirth.co.za or visit samultiplebirth.co.za

how to help Kloof and Highway SPCA Their outreach clinics are designed to assist disadvantaged communities with vaccination and sterilisation of dogs. They need dog blankets, collars and dry pellet dog food. Contact: 031 764 1212/3 or visit kloofspca.co.za Mosaics with a heart Schools and individuals can get involved in this community project by creating mosaic squares that feature a heart. Mosaics are used for fundraising and to add a bright spot to shelters and homes. To find out about specifications or other info, contact: 083 782 7810, sheila@kznmosaics.co.za or visit kznmosaics.co.za Reach for a Dream This organisation turns dreams into reality for children with life-threatening illnesses. You can get involved by hosting a dream event or volunteering assistance. Contact: 031 566 2220, projectskzn@reachforadream.org.za or visit reachforadream.org.za

Reach for a Dream

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to durban@childmag.co.za or fax it to 031 207 3429. Information must be received by 30 March for the May 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

magazine durban

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

childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties

magazine durban

April 2012

33

anél’s finishing touch

ANÉL LEWIS comes clean about some of her parenting mishaps.

i

am a terrible mother. There, I’ve confessed. You see, last night Erin rolled off the bed and onto the uncarpeted floor – face-first. I usually hold her in a vice-like grip when she sleeps with me. But this time she was particularly restless, tossing and turning all over the bed. At about 3am, she decided it would be fun to communicate via Morse code with her unborn brother by kicking me in the stomach. Clearly eager for some nocturnal company, her brother responded with gusto. Desperate for some shut-eye, I turned over and that’s when I felt her roll away from me. I reached out to grab her, but there was just empty space, and a split-second later, a heart-stopping thud as she hit the floor. I catapulted over to her

and checked for bleeding and bruising, but she was, thankfully, unscathed. However, I lay awake for the rest of the night, berating myself for my poor parenting skills.

This mom business is clearly not for sissies, and I have to admit that there are a few other parental faux pas’ of which I am guilty. I have on the odd occasion replaced a couple of Erin’s meals with a packet of bright orange chips. I soothe my conscience by going for the “baked, not fried” variety, but we all know that at the end of the day, they’re still chips and not really one of the recommended food groups. Fortunately she takes after her dad, and will happily drop the offending snack for a piece of fruit if it is offered.

I also give her my husband’s wallet to

play with if she gets restless while I am watching the news, and then tell him that she found it herself on his bedside table when I wasn’t looking. I have even, very rarely mind you, allowed her to go straight to sleep after a particularly busy day, in her clothes and without a bath.

But then I spotted a post on a parenting site where a mother expressed concern about her toddler’s penchant for drawing with only a black crayon. Um, am I missing something here? Is a love for darker-hued art materials an early sign of something more sinister? Erin loves the pack of crayons I bought her. Not much drawing is happening yet, but she particularly loves chewing on the yellow one. Should I be worried?

There I was stressing about the potential toxicity of the crayons, without even considering the psychology behind their colours. I did an internet search, and found, to my relief, that yellow is considered to be the happiest colour in the spectrum. Phew!

So while she may develop a fear of heights after her recent plummet and perhaps an allergic reaction to the monosodium glutamate in the chips she’s been forcefed, I know now that she will be a relatively happy child – as long as she sticks to munching on the yellow crayon.

But, just for good measure, I’ve put pillows on the floor next to the bed, stocked up on dried fruit snacks and thrown the black crayon into the bin.

Anél is Child magazine’s features editor.

family marketplace

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magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPH: SUSIE LEBLOND

Anél and Erin