Child Magazine | Durban July 2011

D U R B A N ’ S

www.childmag.co.za

July 2011

free

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

p a r e n t s

indoor crafts adventure camps dance & drama clubs baking fun drumming horseback beach adventures

plus wild & wacky getaways

health

education

entertainment

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

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 Mariette Barkhuizen • mariette@childmag.co.za Nikki-leigh Piper • nikki@childmag.co.za Alys Suter • studio1@childmag.co.za

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

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

Client Relations Natasha Whittaker • natashaw@childmag.co.za Lisa Waterloo • capetown@childmag.co.za

The sun did not shine.

It was too wet to play.

So we sat in the house All that cold, cold, wet day.

As the rain poured down last Saturday afternoon, Robyn, who is nine, had a rare but real Cat in the Hat moment. So I reached for my Child magazine, and scoured the adverts for games. I looked for games that were suitable for one, whether that one is nine or 16-years-old, and games that teach, and can then be passed on when we’re done. I had to buy a birthday present for one of Robyn’s friends so we headed to our local toy shop.

And there I stopped in my tracks – there were so many games to choose from.

Luckily I had a shopping list and managed to buy three great games, one of which I found myself grabbing while I listened to, (among other things), Robyn practising her Afrikaans mondeling: “Hoe om ’n worsrolletjie

te maak”. As someone who grew up in Pretoria (yes, English people do live there, and our moms don’t all have perms – well, maybe mine does), I needed a distraction from my daughter’s unflattering pronunciation. But that’s not the point. The point is, that for once it was so nice to spend the afternoon with my daughters playing games. Our weekends are usually so full of hockey, modern dancing and grocery shopping, that we seldom take time out to sit around the table and have some fun.

With this in mind, I am looking forward to the winter holidays, where my only plans involve playing with my children. Join me, and arm yourself with our Bumper Holiday issue so that you have all you need to see, do and play too. Have a wonderful, wintry month.

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

To Subscribe Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

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

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Durban’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: 1st Floor, MB House, 641 Ridge 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 magazineTM. 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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Cape Town’s Child magazineTM 45 115 52 208 Joburg’s Child magazineTM 40 011 Durban’s Child magazineTM

Tel: 031 209 2200 • Fax: 031 207 3429 Email: dbnsales@childmag.co.za Website: childmag.co.za

Free requested Jan 11 – Mar 11

All our magazines are printed on recycled paper.

July 2011

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contents

july 2011

20 upfront 3

20 resource – wacky getaways

Tamlyn Vincent compiled a list of out-of-the-ordinary family getaways

a note from lisa

5 over to you

24 a good read

readers respond

26 what’s on in july

features

34 last laugh

10 finding mary poppins

what questions to ask, where to

go and what to look for when

searching for a nanny or an au pair.

By Anél Lewis

31 family marketplace

Lucille Kemp consults two professionals to find out how to take perfect family holiday pics

33 let’s party

16 winter one-pot wonders Joanna Farrow inspires you to cook up a storm during the cold season

17 boredom-busting indoor crafts

Sam Wilson reveals her family’s secret, and sometimes silly, way of communicating

classified ads

14 shot!

new books for the whole family

your children need not be bored during the winter holidays.

Tamlyn Vincent shows you how

16

health 9

beat the sniffs

Tamlyn Vincent gives tips on how to keep colds and flu at bay

regulars 6

wins

8 upfront with paul

Paul Kerton admits to occasionally pinching sweets from his children

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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July 2011

Johannesburg

Cape Town

Durban

shutterstock.com

shutterstock.com

Accessorize www.accessorize.co.za

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letters

over to you new fan I picked up one of your magazines for the first time this weekend and loved it. What a great publication. I am looking for a new bed for my three-year-old and there were so many children’s furniture outlets advertised.

Thank you for that.

Riza Fouche

best party issue ever

helping hand

for their birthday parties. I think 80 percent of your

I have been receiving a copy of Child magazine from my son’s crèche since last year and I truly appreciate the work done by your team each month. I am a single mom and each copy gives me support, advice, fun stuff to do as well as quick recipes. I also love travelling and your “what’s on” section is a perfect guide. There is always something new for us to do, and places to see. I love each copy and treasure the information that I get from your magazine. It’s much appreciated.

Mahlako

I don’t normally write to magazines, but I just had to share my thoughts on how awesome your May issue of Child magazine is. Pictured here are my three boys, armed with their pens and their copy of Child magazine, circling all the bits they want advertisements were circled… the neglected 20 percent were unfortunately in pink. I now need a foreign bank account to satisfy their needs.

Thank you for a really informative issue – one I will need to keep, as I have three little midgets who seem to have planned their individual parties down to a tee.

Send cash!

Andrea Carlyle

a gold star for the team

PHOTOGRAPH: andrea carlyle

cheers, Paul!

I read Paul Kerton’s column (“make mine a gin and tonic”, June 2011) and totally agree with him. I was one of those “shocking” mothers who had the odd glass of wine or a G&T while enjoying my pregnancy. There were a lot of mothers who “tut-tutted” away, while filling their toddler’s bottles with sweet, carbonated cold drinks and feeding them sugar-coated cereals daily, because “it’s all my child will eat”.

I also have no problem allowing my children the odd sip of wine or beer, and they are both healthy, doing well in the classroom and on the sports field.

I’m no statistician, but I don’t know of any alcoholic, middle-income children. However, I am amazed at the number of obese children there are with rotten teeth and concentration problems. So, think I will raise my glass to that.

Claire Douglas

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I am a passionate and dedicated teacher, I have been an educator for 30 years and I find your magazine interesting and inspirational. Every month, without fail, once it is delivered to our school I hand it out to my pupils. Before packing it into their book bags for Mom or Dad to read, I watch them as they slowly turn each page.

It is amazing to see what captures their attention. They spot and like to read difficult words and they then turn to the monthly activities and holiday fun pages. Moms thank me for making sure that each child has a copy and often refer to the articles about raising children and guidelines about learning difficulties.

Recently a photograph appeared in your magazine of two children in my class. The boys made wonderful positive comments of “look we are famous!” The book reviews are also most useful and extremely popular.

The pupils notice very quickly what the latest available stories are. Your magazine is well planned and easy to read. It makes a huge impact on even young readers and is a great success. Thank you for a bright, bold, brilliant and unbelievable magazine. You and your team have achieved a gold star and a first-class pass.

Well done.

Debbie Brenner

thumbs up for design Well done to your artist who designed our advertisement.

We found a Diamond Dealer for KwaZulu-Natal through your ad. To quote our dealer, Shabbir: “The ad just caught my eye, and it was because of the way it was designed.

I don’t usually respond to business opportunity ads.”

Your designer deserves a performance bonus or a

promotion. Please convey our gratitude to her. From the advertisement in Child magazine, I received more calls than I could handle. Thanks once again for your excellent magazine.

Celia O`Reilly

the importance of books I want to say thanks for the wonderful review of my book. I hope children in South Africa will enjoy it.

This month, I’ve read and discussed the book in six public and private schools (in the US). It’s fun and very rewarding when a child touches you on the shoulder, smiles and says, “I like your book”.

Leyland Hazlewood, author of Chester goes to Africa, reviewed in our June 2011 issue Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

write to us You can also post a comment online at

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

childmag.co.za

childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010.

We

reserve

the

right to edit and shorten submitted letters.

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

July 2011

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wins

giveaways in july prima toys launches new website Prima Toys is at the forefront of the toy industry, stocking a wide range of playthings including electronics, board games and puzzles, stationery, preschool toys and a host of boy- or girl-specific play pieces. From 20 June, log onto the exciting new primatoys.co.za and enter their online win-a-toy-a-day competition.

In recognition of their new website, two Durban’s Child readers can win a hamper valued at R1 124,99, which includes My Little Pony, AppleJack’s Barn Playset, Monopoly, Lalaloopsy Mini Doll, Transformer Movie 2 Legends 2pk, Ben 10 Ultimate Alien Cosmic Ultimatrix, Playdoh Flip & Serve Breakfast and Crayola Pretty Pony. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Prima DBN win” in the subject line or post your entry to Prima DBN win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 July 2011.

Only one entry per reader.

away in the mountains Just three hours from Durban, nestled in the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, is the Cavern Resort and Spa, an upmarket, affordable destination that invites families to either relax or relish the spoils of the outdoors. The Royal Natal National Park Amphitheatre, coupled with the unspoilt terrain of the surrounding valleys and the indigenous forest, form the perfect backdrop for long family walks, mountain and trout fishing, paddling, bird watching or indulging yourself at the spa. Experienced nannies are on hand at all meal times and for private hire. For more information, visit cavern.co.za One reader of Durban’s Child stands a chance to win family accommodation for two nights with a standard interleading room, valued at R5 500. This offer is valid for six months in off-peak season and included in the giveaway is a hot rock massage for Mom at their Forest Retreat. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Cavern DBN Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Cavern DBN Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 July 2011. Only one entry per reader.

play and create

right on track The nu•m8+ GPS child locator gives children a certain amount of freedom, while giving parents peace of mind. Concealed within a digital watch, nu•m8+ is the world’s first GPS/GSM locator device specifically designed to be worn by children. For more information, visit lok8u.com/za One reader of Durban’s Child stands a chance to win a nu•m8+ including AC USB charger and free subscription for the first three months of their 12-month contract valued at R2 240. To enter, email your details, and one sentence saying why you want a nu•m8+, to info@lok8u-sa.co.za with “Child magazine DBN Win” in the subject line before 31 July 2011. Only one entry per reader.

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July 2011

Megabloks has been a world leader in construction toy design for more than 25 years. They offer children the opportunity to explore the limitless possibilities of their creativity by letting them play without boundaries. From Maxi to Mini, their enjoyable building system follows children through their most important developmental stages with the highest safety standards. For more information, visit primatoys.co.za Five readers of Durban’s Child stand a chance to win bags of Maxi Bloks (40-piece and 14-piece) and Mini Bloks (90-piece and 30-piece). To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Megabloks DBN Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Megabloks DBN Win, PO Box PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 July 2011. Only one entry per reader.

© 2010 Mega Brands Inc.

congratulations to our May winners Nathaniel Naicker who wins a mid-week Mr Funtubbles Fabulous Family Funfair birthday party package; Renice Richards, Reshma Maharajh and Sean Napier who each win a Sand and Water Play Table from Crazy Concepts; Heather Steytler who wins a Kidkraft Rocket Ship from Polly Potter’s Toy Store and Michelle Jansen van Vuuren who wins a Strawberry Kids Playhouse.

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upfront with paul

the sweetest thing Sweets are just for children, aren’t they?

PAUL KERTON admits that he indulges in the odd craving, sometimes even stealing

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sugary treats from his daughters.

ven when my children were babies, and strapped into their prams, they could spot a chocolate bar or bag of sweets across seven supermarket aisles. Nobody taught them how to do this. They instinctively knew how to recognise, and reach for, something that was bad for them. How they distinguished between bags of sweets and other inedible commodities is beyond me.

As children go, ours are not that bad. They will eat a strange assortment of sour wriggly worms, Curly Wurlies and Jelly Tots, and they will never refuse chocolate, but they do have a preferred time to eat sweets – after a meal (thank goodness) – and they both have a reasonable quota.

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Even at seasonal gorge-fests like Easter and Christmas, where the propensity for gluttony is rife, they are quite well-restrained and I’ve actually heard them say “no”, and felt very proud (while picking myself up from the floor) when other children were massacring eight Easter eggs each.

Most children will eat sweets all day if not stopped, and many do. Recent research from the University of Washington suggests that this affinity for sweet things is completely natural and based wholly on human biology. The Journal of Physiology & Behavior reports that a “keen preference for sweet foods is related to their high growth rate and as children’s growth slows and eventually stops, their preference for sweets also declines”.

I find it curious that children are never found reaching and nagging for fresh vegetables or cheese. Can you imagine if your child was tugging at your pants and throwing a fit in the supermarket because they couldn’t get more broccoli? Perhaps they should start packaging broccoli and other healthy vegetables in brightly coloured packets endorsed by Barbie or Bratz dolls.

“Mom, I want the Bratz dolls’ broccoli and not that awful organic stuff.” Unless the organic stuff comes with a free cuddly toy.

At which point organic would suddenly be über-cool. As we know, broccoli is broccoli is broccoli, but children love brands. I keep telling my brood, as they spend hours pondering the attributes of Pooh Bear versus Barbie yoghurt, it’s basically all the

same – curdled milk with a bit of chopped fruit. Who cares? Just put it in the trolley.

We tried those sugarless sweets but all agreed that this defeats the object. If the sweet is supposed to be a wicked “treat”, then a sugarless sweet is unsatisfying and very mean-spirited. What’s the point?

Contrary to statistics, many adults do continue the sweet eating long into adulthood. I used to have a smallish chocolate bar in the afternoon around slump time, at 3pm, but I have stopped that.

However, I still do enjoy the odd piece of chocolate and must confess to stealing my daughters’ Fizzers when they’re not looking. Mmmmm, delicious!

Paul Kerton is the author of Fab Dad: A Man’s Guide to Fathering.

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PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

health

t

beat the sniffs

TAMLYN VINCENT finds out how to up your chances of winning against colds and flu.

Fit for life Exercise can also help to keep children healthy and strong. “The active person is healthier,” says Egner. Sunlight is also a good source of vitamin D, advises Makda.

his is the time of year when cold and flu germs seem to lurk around every corner, ready to pounce. Both colds and flu are airborne viruses, but colds generally cause a runny nose, sore throat and sneezing, while the flu is more likely to affect the whole body, causing fever, aches and headaches. Both are spread when someone comes into contact with droplets from coughing or sneezing, or with saliva, says Johannesburg GP Dr Bibi Aysha Makda.

They have a short incubation period, and last anything from three to four days, says Dr Jonathan Egner, a Durban-based paediatrician. Colds and flu are both “highly infectious”, he says. “As long as you are sneezing and coughing you can spread the virus,” adds Makda.

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

counter punch Here are a few tips to beat cold and flu germs back from your family’s door this winter: Get the jab Getting the flu vaccine is a good idea, especially for children with respiratory or cardiac problems who may be more at risk of developing complications should they get the flu, says Egner. Children can be vaccinated from six months old; this can be done every year until they develop a stronger immune system. However, not everyone needs the vaccine, so check with your GP first. Note: the vaccine only works for the flu and not for colds.

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fighting rules

Eat right “Eating a nutritious diet and avoiding junk food can help to improve immunity,” says Makda. She says high levels of sugar can bring down the immune system. Try foods that are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, such as berries, pecan nuts and raw peppers.

Vitamins for vitality Children who eat a balanced diet shouldn’t need vitamin supplements. Parents “can always up foods containing vitamin C”, suggests Egner. But a multivitamin can help counter infections that are spread at schools. Most vitamins are safe, but taking excessive vitamins A and D can lead to toxicity, so stick to the recommended allowance.

To make sure you win this round, here are some rules to teach children: • Avoid people who are sick, advises Egner. The more exposure children have to sick people, the more danger there is of infection. This isn’t always possible, especially at school or home, but it does help if you keep surfaces clean, and sterilise shared toys.

• Children should learn to avoid touching their mouths, noses and eyes as viruses spread when germs pass from hands to mouths or eyes.

• Teach children to sneeze or blow their nose into a tissue and then to throw the tissue away.

• Get children into the habit of washing hands before dinner and after playtime to avoid spreading germs, says Makda. Try teaching children to sing a song (such as “Row, Row, Row, your Boat”) while they wash their hands, so they stay at the basin long enough to clean their hands properly. If there isn’t a basin nearby, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

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parenting

finding mary poppins Finding the right person to look after your child can be daunting.

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our child is precious to you, so finding the right nanny or au pair is one of the more important, and difficult, decisions you may have to make as a parent. I am fortunate to have the nanny who looked after me as a baby now caring for my daughter. I grew up with Jemima, and have no qualms about leaving my baby in her capable care. But most parents have to start the often-daunting search for a suitable person from scratch. Tiffini Wissing of Old School Cool advises parents to follow their gut instincts, irrespective of the person’s qualifications or recommendations, when hiring a childminder. “There is a motherly instinct for a reason,” she cautions.

Fortunately there are reputable agencies that will help you find the best nanny, or au pair, to look after your child.

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Parents must first decide whether they want a nanny or an au pair. South Africa is strewn with “misused terms in this field”, says childcare consultant Stephanie DawsonCosser. A domestic child worker is someone who does

It is important to understand that an au pair does not replace you as a parent. general domestic chores and looks after your children, while someone who only does domestic work directly related to the children is referred to as a childminder or a professional nanny. She says the terms used may

vary from one agency to another. It is best to look at the person’s qualifications when deciding on the correct term to use. Hayley Eaton of Au Pair Professional Placements describes a nanny as a domestic childminder who will also clean, cook and do washing, while an au pair is someone whose only responsibility is to look after and stimulate your child. An au pair is usually more expensive than a nanny.

Some students take on au pair work to pay for their studies or to be hosted in another country. The au pair will probably have a driver’s licence, can help with homework and will take your child to activities during the day, says Eaton.

hiring a nanny • Refrain from hiring someone just because she has been recommended to you. Rather look for someone with the

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ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

ANÉL LEWIS offers some tips for hiring a nanny or an au pair.

relevant qualifications, such as first-aid training. Also, ask about her nutritional knowledge. Does she know what brain food is, for example?

• Follow up all references. “Qualities to look for are a good attitude, honesty, reliability, initiative and a willingness to communicate and to do the tasks the mother’s way,” says Karin Thomsen of Super Nannies.

“Skills can always be taught.”

• Thomsen recommends that you give yourself at least two months to find a nanny. This includes a one-month trial to build a relationship with her.

• Get as much information as possible about the candidate before hiring. If this is not possible for busy parents, or parents needing to replace a nanny at short notice, hire a temp until a suitable candidate is

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found. “Hiring a nanny is such an important decision, as whoever you hire will be responsible for looking after your most precious angels, your children. For this reason, don’t rush the decision,” says Nicky Hartel of Nannies in Training.

• Be aware of the legal implications if the person fails to take care of your child properly.

• Draw up a proper contract with your nanny and pay her a market-related salary. See box “how much to pay?”.

• Find out about the nanny’s previous job and ask her why she left?

• Ask the nanny how she will discipline your child.

• Find out if she has children of her own, and if there are any health issues you should be aware of. You may ask if she is on chronic medication and whether she visits

the clinic regularly but she is not obliged to disclose her HIV status. See box “HIV/Aids and your carer”.

• Test her reading and writing skills, in case she has to take messages or read instructions. Dawson-Cosser says the nanny’s language skills are also important, as they could affect the development of your child’s language.

• During the interview, assess whether the nanny is physically capable of handling the job, if she is comfortable and competent with your children and whether she is reliable and can get to work on time.

Give her a trial – usually two or three days – at your home to see if she fits in with the family.

• Check that the nanny is conscious of hygiene. Does she wash her hands regularly and will she wear gloves if she or your child has an open or bleeding wound?

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parenting

Qualities to look for are a good attitude, honesty, reliability...

Skills can be taught.

• Discuss your views on watching TV, as well as expectations for your baby’s sleep and eating routines.

• Ensure that there is constant communication with your nanny.

Thomsen suggests a monthly meeting to discuss any issues that may arise.

hiring an au pair • Double-check all references. “We advise that parents personally follow up references and check the information that is given by the agencies.

References are easy to forge, as are IDs,” says Wissing. She says most agencies will do a criminal check on someone for you.

• If possible, use a reliable agency. While costly, the agency will do thorough background checks and ensure that candidates have a suitable CV. Try to forge a good relationship with the agency, so that it knows exactly what type of person you are looking for.

• Families should consider a three-stage interview. First discuss experience and expectations with the au pair alone, and then introduce your children at the second interview. Allow them to ask questions and interact with the au pair. The third interview could be a trial day when the au pair is left alone for a few hours with your children. “Children don’t lie and, after all, it is the children who will be spending their time with the au pair,” says Eaton. If the child is not old enough to communicate with you, Eaton suggests that you observe how the au pair commands your child’s attention.

• Ask the au pair about his or her plans for the next year or so to establish how long the person will be able to work with the family, says Clara Brazao of Just Au Pair Recruitment.

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July 2011

• Find out how the au pair would discipline your child. Be clear about what forms of discipline you would prefer to be used.

• Find out what motivated the candidate to become an au pair.

• Ask what activities she will do with the children once their homework is done.

• If the au pair is still studying, find out if there will be any future changes to her timetable that could have an impact on the family.

• Will the au pair be able to work during the school holidays?

• Does it matter if the au pair is not the same religion, ethnicity or nationality as your family?

• Find out about the au pair’s driving history, such as recent accidents.

Does the au pair have her own transport, or will you be expected to provide a car?

• Ask if the au pair is a smoker.

• Does she have first-aid or any other relevant qualifications? Eaton says firstaid for someone looking after a baby or toddler is “a must”.

• Set up a clear contract of the au pair’s duties, notice period, length of employment, working hours, remuneration and sick leave. “The best advice I can give a family is to always follow their gut. Never take a person you are not 100 percent happy with.

Rather take the time to find the right person,” says Brazao.

• Communicate regularly with the au pair about your respective needs. “It is important to understand that an au pair does not replace you as a parent. In most cases, au pairs are students and do not have as much life experience as you do,” says Sheli Berger of Au Pairs and House Sitters for Africa. magazine durban

HIV/Aids and your carer It’s not something parents like to think about, but the health of the person looking after your child is naturally a concern.

Many parents worry about the HIV-status of their nannies or au pairs. But legally, an employee does not have to disclose their status. You may also not demand that your nanny or au pair be tested.

Debbie de Beer of Edubabe adds that a person may not be refused employment, or dismissed, for being HIV positive. But Dawson-Cosser says you may insist that the person you hire is healthy and you can ask her to go for a general medical examination, at your cost. You can also insist that she gets tested for TB, which is highly contagious. Tania Schrire of Village Nannies says, “If she has TB she will lose the job as she will have to go on treatment for six months and it is not advisable to work with children, even during treatment.”

TB is not an “absolute indicator” of HIV, but the two are often linked, cautions Dawson-Cosser.

Sugar & Spice Nanny Training suggests that parents speak to their medical practitioners if they have any concerns. HIV is spread by exposure to infected blood, unprotected sex with someone who has the disease or via an infected mother to her baby. It is unlikely that your child will be at risk in the home.

“The chances of contracting Aids from a nanny are extremely small, but TB can be easily transferred,” says Schrire.

Simple measures, such as keeping a box of latex gloves handy in the house in case of an accident, will provide some peace of mind, says Dawson-Cosser. “It is advisable for the family to have certain hygiene routines in place for everyone, such as washing hands regularly, putting a plaster on an open cut and wearing disposable gloves when changing the baby’s nappy, especially if the baby has nappy rash,” says Schrire. Some placement agencies offer their candidates HIV/TB awareness, and teach protection and prevention as part of their training courses.

how much to pay?

The salary depends on the conditions of employment and the person’s qualifications, as well as what the family is able to pay. Dawson-Cosser says a domestic childminder, living in or out the house, should earn between R2 000 and R4 500 per month depending on the hours she works, her qualifications and her job requirements.

A professional nanny or au pair, who has a minimum of 18 months training, can expect a salary of between R5 000 and R6 000 per month for an eight- to 10-hour working day. The hourly rate for an au pair is between R35 and R60 depending on her qualifications. A monthly salary would be between R4 000 and R6 000.

For an agency in your area, see childmag.co.za/resources/home-help

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July 2011

13

how to

sh

t!

LUCILLE KEMP gets advice for taking great holiday snaps from two professional photographers.

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efore you’re able to tackle the finer details of photography, you need to get to know your camera – play with the aperture, shutter speed and ISO so you know what is where, and why it is there. Also, make sure that you are always equipped with fully charged batteries and empty memory cards so that you are ever-ready to capture that special moment.

cropping Don’t be afraid to crop in close to your subject so you can capture facial expressions and details. However, don’t get too close – about one metre away from your subject is ideal. Note: in order to capture a dramatic, detailed portrait you don’t need to focus on the whole face; cropping into eyebrows for example can emphasise eyes.

lighting Try to use natural light wherever possible and for the most part turn off your flash indoors. A flash is unflattering and often causes the red eye effect. Also, over-flashed shots can kill the ambience of an occasion. You could use light from a window or patio door if you’re inside or you could take some photos under the shade of a tree if you’re outdoors.

Lots of point-and-shoot cameras have the option to switch off your flash and up your ISO to best capture the mood of the event. Experiment and see what works best.

Avoid shooting in full sunlight as you’ll end up with harsh shadows across faces. The light is best in the early morning and late afternoon. You might decide to take some longer exposure shots at night without using your flash, so you’ll need to steady your camera on a tripod or a flat surface to keep it still and prevent the camera from shaking. If you’re taking pictures of people at night, you’ll have no choice but to use your on-camera flash, so if you have a red eye reduction option on your camera, use it.

background

The most important thing is that you have fun when you take them as this will come across in the photo.

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July 2011

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Look behind your subjects, as a tree or a lamppost sticking out of the back of someone’s head, for example, has ruined many a good portrait. If the background is cluttered or messy either move closer to the person you’re photographing to crop it out or find another backdrop.

landscape Composition can make or break a landscape shot, so follow the rule of thirds. This means imagining your viewfinder is divided into three equal sections horizontally and vertically and using this pretend grid to position your subject. For example: if you’re taking a sunset photo, you might include two thirds sky and one third ocean rather than just positioning the horizon in the middle. Also, to do justice to your picturesque landscape, be reminded once again that the best times for good light are morning and afternoon. Try to avoid taking pictures at midday, when the sun is at its highest and the light will be overpowering in your photos.

the action shot Posed shots are great but candid shots, images where your subject is unaware, are often the best, not to mention easiest, when it comes to photographing children. If your children are on the beach building sand castles for example, take some photos while they are busy and haven’t noticed you, then ask them to look up at you. You could also ask your children to run towards you or jump in the air, which is great fun for them and you’ll get some lovely, spontaneous photographs.

the group shot Make sure everyone is included in your viewfinder; watch out for cutting off the top of heads. Get everyone’s attention with a “3, 2, 1 cheese” or “sausages” while you take the photo – a silly but time-honoured tradition that works well. You’ll probably need to take several photos before you get a good one as there are likely to be people looking away or blinking, so be persistent.

Information courtesy of professional photographers Emma O’Brien from Johannesburg and Cape Town-based Jules Morgan.

experiment… ...with composition Put your subject in the corner or side of the frame and play with “empty space”. Don’t think that you always have to put your subject in the middle.

Photograph things that catch your eye such as colour contrast – green palm trees against blue skies – and things like funny signposts, pictures of places you stayed at or visited and people you met, which will all contribute to a great set of holiday photos. The most important thing is that you have fun when you take them as this will come across in the photo. Play with a slow shutter speed and moving subjects. Hone in on abstract details such as reflections and shadows rather than only focusing on the subject itself. …with perspective Jump on a box or car bonnet so you can get more height and see things from a different angle. This can be a bit distorting but it is often more flattering for subjects because there are no double chins for instance. …with light Don’t be afraid to play with light. Shoot into the sun for creative silhouettes. Late afternoon sunshine at a 45-degree angle to your subject can be soft and beautiful.

edit and store your photos online These sites make it easy, and in most cases, don’t require registration.

Picnik: picnik.com FotoFlexer: fotoflexer.com Pixenate: pixenate.com Picasa: picasa.google.com Shutterfly: shutterfly.com Kodak EasyShare Gallery: kodakgallery.com Flickr: flickr.com

magazine durban

July 2011

15

book extract

winter

one-pot wonders When the mercury drops, it’s time to indulge in some hearty, wholesome food.

JOANNA FARROW offers three easy recipes that can be cooked in one dish.

Serves 4 Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time 30 minutes • 125g butter • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 garlic clove, crushed or chopped • 1 onion, finely diced • 300g risotto rice • 1 litre hot vegetable stock • 125g green beans, cut into short lengths • 125g peas

fish pie Serves 4 Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 1 hour 10 minutes • 300g raw peeled prawns • 2 teaspoons cornflour • 300g skinned white fish, such as haddock cut into small pieces • 2 teaspoons green peppercorns in brine, rinsed and drained • 1 small fennel bulb, roughly chopped • 1 small leek, roughly chopped • 15g fresh parsley • 15g fresh dill • 100g fresh or frozen peas • 350g ready-made or home-made cheese sauce • 750g baking potatoes, thinly sliced • 75g Cheddar cheese, grated • salt and pepper Dry the prawns, if frozen and thawed, by patting between sheets of kitchen paper. Season the cornflour and use to coat the prawns and white fish. Lightly crush the peppercorns using a pestle and mortar.

Put the peppercorns in a food processor with the fennel, leek,

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dill, parsley and a little salt and blend until very finely chopped, scraping the mixture down from the sides of the bowl if necessary. Tip into a shallow, ovenproof dish.

Scatter the prawns and fish over the fennel mixture and mix together a little. Scatter the peas on top.

Spoon half the cheese sauce over the filling and spread roughly with the back of a spoon. Layer up the potatoes on top, seasoning each layer as you go. Spoon the remaining sauce over the top, spreading it in a thin layer. Sprinkle with cheese.

Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C for 30 minutes until the surface has turned pale golden. Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C and cook for a further 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender.

Serve with a tomato salad.

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5

• 125g broad beans • 125g asparagus, cut into short lengths • 125g baby spinach, chopped • 75ml dry vermouth or white wine • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley • 125g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated • salt and pepper Melt half the butter with the oil in a large saucepan, add the garlic and onion and fry gently for 5 minutes.

Add the rice and stir well to coat each grain with the butter and oil.

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2

Add enough stock to cover the rice and stir well. Simmer gently, stirring frequently.

When most of the liquid is absorbed, add more stock and stir well. Continue adding the stock a little at a time, stirring until it’s absorbed and the rice is tender but retaining a little bite – this will take about 25 minutes.

You may not need all the stock. Add the vegetables and vermouth or wine, mix well and cook for 2 minutes.

Remove the pan from the heat, season and add the remaining butter, the parsley and Parmesan. Mix well and serve.

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4

italian chicken with tomato sauce Serves 4 Preparation time 20 minutes Cooking time 1,5 hours • 4 chicken legs, halved through the joints • 4 tablespoons olive oil • 1 large onion, finely chopped • 1 celery stick, finely chopped • 75g pancetta, diced • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 3 bay leaves • 4 tablespoons dry vermouth or white wine • 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes • 1 teaspoon caster sugar • 3 tablespoons sun-dried tomato paste • 25g basil leaves, torn into pieces • 8 black olives • salt and pepper

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the chicken pieces on all sides to brown. Drain to a plate.

Add the onion, celery and pancetta to the pan and fry gently for 10 minutes. Add the garlic and bay leaves and fry for another minute.

Add the vermouth/wine, sugar, tomatoes, tomato paste and seasoning and bring to the boil. Return the chicken pieces to the pan and reduce the heat to its lowest setting.

Cook very gently, uncovered, for about 1 hour or until the chicken is very tender.

Stir in the basil and olives and season to taste and serve.

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1

about the book

2

Joanna Farrow, author of 200 One Pot Meals (Octopus Publishing Group) says “some of the most delicious dishes imaginable” are cooked in one pot. This nifty, all-colour recipe book offers a variety of meal options. Most of the dishes are cooked slowly, making for tasty melt-in-your-mouth meals. Available at all good bookshops nationwide.

July 2011

PHOTOGRAPHS: lis parsons

green risotto

magazine durban

ideas

boredom-busting indoor crafts TAMLYN VINCENT shows how common household items

a

can be used to keep children entertained during the winter holidays.

s the mid-year holiday gets underway, parents begin preparing for the inevitable: “Mom, it’s raining; there’s nothing to do.” Instead of letting the miserable weather get you and the children down, delve into your cupboards for odds and ends that can be used to keep them entertained indoors.

toddlers

Paint patterns Drop blobs of paint

Music mates Make a tambourine

onto a piece of paper, and get your

for boys

by getting your child to colour in the

child to blow through a straw to make

backs of two paper plates. Staple them

interesting shapes and creatures in

together, putting in beans or rice before

the paint. Or, put paint onto a sheet

sealing it, and add ribbons or streamers.

of paper; fold it in half while the paint

Make drums out of old coffee tins.

is still wet and push the paint around.

Clean them out, then paint them or

Unfold it to reveal interesting patterns.

King’s crown Cut a wide strip of cardboard to fit around your boy’s head. Cut out points in the top of the crown, colour it in and decorate. Try making jewels out of coloured paper and sticking them on. Staple the ends together.

PHOTOGRAPHS: tamlyn vincent, shutterstock.com

wind ribbons around the outside. Put the lid back on and get drumming.

Home-made playdough This is edible

for girls

and easy to make. Put one cup of flour

Princess’s crown Draw a crown on a piece of cardboard, then cut out, colour in and decorate it with glitter and stickers. Cut a strip of cardboard to fit around your girl’s head, fix the crown onto this, and staple the ends together. Make a wand to go with the outfit.

and one cup of salt into a plastic mixing bowl. Get your child to mix it before slowly adding one cup of water and a few drops of food colouring. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, but not sticky. Your children can roll it out, cut it with cookie cutters or make any shapes they like.

magazine durban

July 2011

17

ideas

18

children

pre-teens

Coffee-can stilts Get two samesized coffee cans and turn them upside down. Ask dad to make holes in each side of both cans.

Push the ends of a piece of rope through the holes and tie together inside the can. Make sure the rope is the same length on both cans and that it is long enough to hold onto while walking.

Masks These are fun to make and children can use them to put on a play. Cut out holes in a paper plate for eyes and a mouth.

Children can create a character of their choice, from a lion to a princess.

Colour in the mask and decorate it.

Use extra paper to make ears, or wool to make hair. Add some teeth for a monster or a tongue for a frog. Fasten elastic onto the sides of the mask so that it fits onto your child’s head.

Maracas Papier-mâché maracas may be messy to make but are loads of fun. Fill a balloon with a few beans or some rice. Blow up the balloon to your desired size and tie it off.

Attach a small stick or straw near the knot. Make a papier-mâché mixture by adding one part flour to two parts

To dye for Tie-dyeing is great fun, but can be messy, so do this in the garage. Make your dye in old containers, and keep a bucket of soapy water nearby for rinsing hands.

Get some white shirts and tie off wherever you don’t want them to be coloured, using string or elastic bands. Following the instructions, dye the shirt and leave it to set overnight.

Then remove your ties, rinse the shirt and wash it separately (the dye will

water and mixing until smooth and sticky. Dip strips of paper into the mixture and use these to cover your balloon. Leave it to dry, then pop the balloon with a pin. Finish off by painting your maracas.

Mementos Going away for the holidays? Get your children to make a holiday collage to remember the trip.

Collect things like shells along the way. Develop your children’s favourite photos and have them decorate a sheet of cardboard with the memories they collected.

for boys

for girls

Fly a kite Attach two dowel rods at right angles to each other.

Cover this frame with thin material and attach it to the ends using wood glue. You could also use strong paper or plastic. Tie some string to the centre of the frame and wind the length of this string around a piece of wood for your child to hold while flying the kite.

Treasure box Create a special box to store precious keepsakes.

Girls can cut out pictures from magazines or from old photos, or you can help to cut out pictures they like. Get your child to glue these pictures onto a shoe box.

Once the glue is dry, cover the box with a sealant or clear lacquer spray and leave to dry.

July 2011

run for the first few washes). Try making different patterns or using two or more colours.

Birdfeeder Cut door-shaped holes out of opposite sides of a cardboard juice carton, and paint the outside.

Decorate it with buttons or paint and use sticks to make a roof. Make a small hole underneath each door and pass a stick through them, so there is room for birds to sit on either side.

Fill up with birdseed and leave in your garden for the birds to find.

for boys

for girls

Robots These can be as easy or as complex as you like. Use old boxes, tinfoil, toilet or carton roll tubes, and egg boxes. You will also need glue, sticky tape and maybe silver spray paint. Use a larger box for the body, and a smaller one for the head. Add paper rolls to make arms and legs, and to join the head to the body. Egg boxes can be used to make a helmet or hands. Spray paint or cover it in tinfoil, and add eyes and a mouth.

Try making a robot dog.

Jewellery design Clay beads or flowers can be used to make beautiful, unique jewellery. Get air-drying clay from your local craft shop and use it to make beads or flower shapes. Ask your craft shop about colouring the clay, or what paint you can use on it. Mix different coloured clay to make swirled beads. Make a hole through the beads and leave to dry. Thread them onto string or ribbon making sure it can fit around your child’s neck or wrist.

stock up Before the holiday starts, pop into your local craft shop for a few handy extras.

• air-drying clay • cardboard • paint/crayons • dye • ribbons/string • wood glue • clear lacquer or sealant

magazine durban

magazine durban

July 2011

19

resource

wild and wacky

escapes

Looking for somewhere out-of-the-ordinary to stay?

TAMLYN VINCENT compiled this list of quirky places to visit.

Nibela Lodge

fancy... a night on a mountainside and a day spent as a safari ranger?

Then you’ll love Phinda Mountain Lodge, Ubombo Mountains.

The lodge is made up of split-level units on the mountainside, allowing for magnificent views. During the day, children can go on fishing or frogging safaris, a barkrubbing expedition or follow a “pooh” or spoor trail. There are also guided and supervised safari activities.

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July 2011

Rates Suites from R3 635 per person sharing per night, depending on season Contact 011 809 4441, safaris@andbeyond.com or visit andbeyondafrica.com

Rates From R550 per night for a two-sleeper unit to R1 600 per night for a six-sleeper house Contact 036 438 6287, info@drakensville.co.za or visit drakensville.co.za

a night in a resort packed with action and excitement?

a night in a mountain getaway, with helicopter flips during the day?

Then you’ll love ATKV Drakensville Holiday Resort in the Northern Drakensberg.

This venue is for those who love a fun, adventure-filled holiday. It offers everything from indoor and outdoor heated pools and a heated super slide, to abseiling, horse rides, paintball and putt-putt. There is also a family-friendly restaurant and coffee shop with a play area. Nearby is the Basotho Cultural Village and Falcon Ridge Birds of Prey.

Then you’ll love Cathedral Peak Hotel in the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park.

Besides flying in a helicopter, there are loads of adventure activities, from quad biking and horse rides, for those old enough, to pony rides and a heated pool for younger children. Don’t miss the archery or adventure mini-golf.

Indoor activities incorporate a games room. Babysitting services are also offered.

magazine durban

a night in a lakeside cabin, with helicopter trips?

Drifters Drakensberg Lodge

Rates There is a winter adventure holiday special from 24 June to 17 July: R735 per person sharing per night, for a minimum of four nights. Children younger than six stay free Contact 036 488 1888, info@cathedralpeak.co.za or visit cathedralpeak.co.za

a night in a thatched cottage, or pony trekking over the mountain?

Then you’ll love Sani Pass Hotel near Himeville in the Southern Drakensberg.

Quad biking, horseriding, swimming, hiking and picnicking are just some of the activities available. Take a walk to view some of the San Rock art or a 4x4 tour of Sani Pass. Several nearby venues offer pony trekking trips into Lesotho.

Rates The Winter Special runs until 31 July 2011, R695 dinner, bed and breakfast per person per night sharing, children under 12 sharing are free Contact 033 702 1320, reservations@sanipasshotel.co.za or visit sanipasshotel.co.za

magazine durban

Then you’ll love Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort in the Champagne Valley, Central Drakensberg.

This is a wilderness estate with no shortage of adventure activities. Fly in a helicopter along the escarpment, ride a horse, play paintball or abseil. Accommodation ranges from four-star caravan and camping sites to self-catering thatched cottages.

Rates From R90 per person per night for camping to R340 per person per night for a cottage, out of season. Children under 16 pay half-price Contact 036 468 1031, dpp@dragonpeaks.com or visit dragonpeaks.com

a night in a log cabin at one of the highest lodges in the Drakensberg?

Then you’ll love Drifters Drakensberg Lodge.

The lodge is made of natural, rustic materials and is a place where children can get as dirty and be as noisy

as they like. Activities include horse riding, swimming in the clear lake, canoeing or just exploring. There are no dangerous points near the lodge so it is safe for children.

Rates From R495 per person per night, for full board. Children under 12 from R295, children under four stay free Contact 011 888 1160 or drifters@drifters.co.za

a night in a wooden cabin on the beach?

Then you’ll love Inkwazi Beach Camp in Sodwana Bay. This is a rustic camp, close to the beach and the lake, which offers wooden cabins with bedding and ablutions.

The communal kitchen and boma with a fireplace make this an ideal spot for large families or groups.

Rates In season R180 per person per night, out of season R150 per person per night, children half-price, children under four stay free Contact 082 603 4536, reservations@inkwazibeachcamp. co.za or visit inkwazibeachcamp.co.za

a night in a wilderness retreat where you can meet a cheetah?

Then you’ll love Emdoneni Lodge in Hluhluwe.

Situated on a game farm in Zululand, this lodge offers personal service and great family activities. A tour of the Cat Rehabilitation Centre, where you can interact with the tame animals, is a must.

Rates R921 per person sharing per night, including dinner, bed and breakfast. Children’s rates also available Contact 035 563 7000/1, 082 713 3686, info@ emdonenilodge.com or visit emdonenilodge.com

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resource

fancy... a night in a hotel carved into a rock?

Then you’ll love Isandlwana Lodge, Dundee.

Carved into the iNyoni Rock, overlooking Mount Isandlwana, the site of the historic Anglo-Zulu battle of 1879, this lodge is designed to look as if it is growing out of the stone. The rooms have a panoramic view of the surrounding battlefields, which resident historians will bring to life with stories. Horse trails and cultural tours also available.

Rates From R995 per person per night, depending on the package. Children must be seven and older Contact 034 271 8301/4/5, lodge@ isandlwana.co.za or visit isandlwana.co.za

a night in a room inspired by a Zulu hut?

Then you’ll love Isibindi Zulu Lodge, Rorke’s Drift battlefields near Dundee.

Immerse yourself in the bushveld, as well as some South African history, and go on a battlefield or Zulu homestead tour, or enjoy game drives or walks in the reserve.

Rates From R830 per adult per night.

Children under 12 sharing with parents pay half-price (maximum of two per room), and children between 12 and 18 years old pay 75 percent of the rate Contact 035 474 1473, res@isibindi.co.za or visit isibindi.co.za

Kosi Forest Lodge

a night in a thatched bush suite?

Then you’ll love Kosi Forest Lodge in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Explore the Kosi Lake by canoe, swim at the beach or snorkel in the Kosi River Mouth, known as the “aquarium” because of its abundance of fish. Enjoy dining alfresco and swimming in the lakeside pool.

Rates From R970 per adult per night.

Children under 12 sharing half-price (maximum of two per room), and children between 12 and 18 years old pay 75 percent Contact 035 474 1473, res@isibindi.co.za or visit isibindi.co.za

a night in a wetland safari lodge?

Then you’ll love Makakatana Bay Lodge in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

They offer a variety of activities, including boat trips on Lake St Lucia, wetland game drives and a visit to a Zulu cultural village. A definite must is the beach safari and picnic.

Rates From R2 100, depending on the season, type of accommodation, meals and activities selected Contact 035 550 4189, maklodge@iafrica. com or visit makakatana.co.za

a night in a haunted hotel?

Then you’ll love Mountain Park Holiday Resort Hotel, Bulwer, situated at the foothills of the Drakensberg.

This establishment has seven ghosts and is believed to be one of the only places in the world haunted by a canine spirit.

The hotel itself has creaky stairs and crooked doorways that add to the spooky atmosphere. When the family is not looking for ghosts, they can enjoy other activities such as horse riding, hang-gliding, croquet and badminton.

Rates Adults R390 per person per night.

Discounts are available for children and groups, and rates can drop depending on the length of your stay Contact Michael: 039 832 0026 or holiday@mountainpark.co.za

a night in a forest chalet, where you can see fossils?

Then you’ll love Nibela Lodge in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

The chalets, situated under a canopy of trees, are connected by raised wooden walkways. Children of all ages are kept entertained by a variety of activities, from putt-putt and quad biking to Zulu dancing.

Hiking trails take you to fossilised fauna and flora dating back millions of years.

Enjoy dinner under the stars while relaxing in the tranquil setting.

Rates R435 per person per night, including dinner and breakfast. Children two to 12 years are half-price Contact 011 267 8300, info@dreambreaks. co.za or visit dreambreaks.co.za

a night in a canvas and log luxury tent?

Then you’ll love Thandulula near Southport beach, South Coast.

These tents are part log structure, part tent, and each one comes with a kitchen, bathroom, covered deck and braai area.

Isandlwana Lodge

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July 2011

magazine durban

Children of all ages are catered for and there is a swimming pool and playground.

Rates Adults R225 per person per night out of season. In season, adults R285 per person per night. Children 13 to 17 years R90 per night, children under 12 R60 per night Contact 039 681 3755, 082 430 3334, info@ thandulula.com or visit thandulula.com

a night in a thatched cottage with roasted marshmallows at the Cave Bar? Then you’ll love The Cavern Resort and Spa, Northern Drakensberg.

Families with children of any age can enjoy a wide range of activities from pony rides and water slides to canoeing on the dam.

Nearby you will find All Out Adventures, which offers bungee jumping, paintball and more. Other attractions are hikes, Bushman paintings and a forest spa.

Rates Adults from R790 per person sharing, children up to three pay 10 percent of the rate, children four to six years old pay 40 percent of the rate, children seven to 12 pay 70 percent of the rate Contact 036 438 6270, info@cavern.co.za or visit cavern.co.za

a night in a coastal dune forest hideaway?

Then you’ll love Thonga Beach Lodge, Mabibi Bay in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

This secluded lodge is only metres away from the beach and offers a variety of activities, including snorkelling, exploring the rock pools and kayaking on Lake Sibaya. If you are lucky, you may spot a hippo or crocodile. Take a guided forest walk or just relax in the pool.

Rates From R1 970 per adult per night.

Children under 12 sharing with parents pay half-price (maximum of two per room), and children between 12 and 18 pay 75 percent Contact 035 474 1473, res@isibindi.co.za or visit isibindi.co.za

Thonga Beach Lodge

a night dining in a revamped silo?

Then you’ll love Tower of Pizza in the Northern Drakensberg.

The tower is a converted grain silo and has become a landmark in the area. They are known for their wood-burning, oven pizzas, offbeat décor and family-friendly accommodation. Choose from a variety of nearby activities offered by All Out Adventures, from quad biking and a zip line to tubing, horse riding and more.

Rates From R350 per person per night.

Children’s rates vary depending on their age magazine durban

a night nesting with the birds?

Then you’ll love Sycamore Avenue Treehouses near Giant’s Castle in the Natal Midlands.

The charming tree houses are designed around the trees in the area and allow guests to relax in a unique setting. For those who prefer accommodation on terra firma, cottages are also available.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure, there are canopy tours, horse trails and hiking.

Rates R755 per person per night, including dinner, bed and breakfast.

Children under 12 pay half-price Contact 033 263 2875, sycamore@ futurenet.co.za or visit treehouseacc.co.za

Contact 036 438 6480, 083 564 9960, info@towerofpizza.co.za or visit towerofpizza.co.za

a night in a lodge on stilts?

Then you’ll love Ubizane’s Zululand Tree Lodge in Hluhluwe.

Set on stilts among the fever trees, the luxury chalets offer a unique view of passing wildlife on their way to the watering hole. Relax by the pool, or take a game drive. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush. The night drive gives you the chance to see bushbabies, owls or even hyenas.

Rates From R1 000 per person per night Contact 035 562 1020, reservations@ ubizane.co.za or visit ubizane.co.za

a night in a river rock room, thatched camp or hilltop house?

Then you’ll love Zingela Safari and River Company near Weenen.

No two sites are the same as each unit is designed to blend in with its natural environment. Camping, self-catering and fully-catered accommodation is available and guests can relax, or join in one of the many activities from abseiling, white water rafting and horse riding.

Rates R150–R750 per person per night.

Children under 12 get discounted rates and family packages are available Contact 036 354 7005/250, zingela@ futurenet.co.za or visit zingelasafaris.co.za Please note: all rates correct at the time of going to print.

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books

a good read for toddlers

(Macmillan Children’s Books, R85) Young swimmers will enjoy this book about one little girl’s quest to become a good enough swimmer to make it to the deep end of the pool on her own. With lots of humour and wit, and very endearing illustrations, we follow our little heroine from the soggy and noisy changing room into the pool.

Here the teacher tells the children the only way to become a good swimmer is to keep your head down and your bottom up. They believe that if they make it to the deep end like the good swimmers, they’ll find out if there really is a tunnel that takes you underground all the way to the ocean.

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July 2011

childmag.co.za

for preschoolers Sea & Sand

By Jonathan Lang

The Deep End

By Rebecca Patterson

View our books blog at

(Rubber Duck Press, R195) The book was written as a guide to couples with young children, who are about to go through a divorce. Using advice obtained from counsellors, therapists and teachers, the book’s style was adapted to suit the needs of children aged between three and seven years old. When facing the prospect of a separation, parents also have to deal with the unpleasant task of letting their young children know that their circumstances will change. In telling the story, the focus remains on the children throughout, ensuring they understand that, while the situation will definitely affect them, it is not their fault.

Can’t Sleep Without Sheep

By Susanna Leonard Hill and Mike Wohnoutka

best bedtime story

(Walker and Company, R136) Like many children, Ava counts sheep when she can’t fall asleep. But she also takes too long to fall asleep and the sheep are getting tired, so they quit. When the sheep promise to find a replacement Ava can count on, chaos ensues as chickens, cows, pigs, hippos, and more try their hand at jumping over Ava’s fence. Finding the perfectly peaceful replacement for sheep might not be so easy after all. With irresistibly adorable art, this delightful take on a familiar sleep tactic is sure to become a bedtime favourite.

The book is recommended for children aged four to eight years old.

for early graders

Kingdom: Micro Monsters and Kingdom: Savage Safari

By Nam Nguyen (Kingfisher, R120 each) Micro Monsters is packed with up-close and scary photos of microscopic monsters, plus wild and weird data on their amazing superpowers. There are special foldout sections filled with little-known facts, and profiles of extreme animals – including some that live on you. Savage Safari has close-ups of Africa’s powerful predators, plus fascinating and unusual information about them. There are also special foldout sections filled with interesting facts, and profiles of extreme animals that you might encounter in Africa. Also available in the Kingdom series are Extreme Rainforest and Undersea Creatures.

magazine durban

for teens and preteens

for us

wake-up call

Jacob’s Badge of Good Character

By Gavin Kruger (iThemba, R50) Jacob longs to be a good dad one day, and it is this that motivates him to learn the five important character traits that form the basis of the book. Stephen the painter is a role model for Jacob, and helps him learn these lessons. These character traits will help children make important choices when faced with challenges such as peer pressure or temptation. This book is suitable for children aged seven to 12 years. The author has worked as a family outreach manager for many years and has drawn from his own experiences as a father.

magazine durban

parenting book

Ecological Intelligence

By Daniel Goleman

(Penguin Books, R180) Although we all want to help the environment, our knowledge of “green” choices is often so limited, that we can do more harm than good. But radical transparency, or the availability of complete information about all aspects of a product’s history, is about to transform the power of consumers and the fate of business. Ecological Intelligence shows you why a T-shirt that claims it is 100 percent organic cotton may not be, why it’s good to buy wine from France and how even the type of shampoo you use could affect the future of the planet. By discovering how to tune your eco-intelligence, the international bestselling author of Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman, shows how you can make better decisions.

Silent Predator

By Tony Park (Quercus Publishing, R105) British Defence Minister Robert Greeves has vanished without a trace. In a luxury lodge in the Kruger National Park, Detective Sergeant Officer Tom Furey can’t believe this happened on his watch, when he had his eye on a pretty girl rather than the job.

Knowing his career is on the line, Furey vows not to stop until Greeves is found – dead or alive. He and his South African counterpart, the attractive Inspector Sannie van Rensburg, go against official orders and start the search for the suspected band of terrorists from the outer limits of the park to the coastal waters of Mozambique.

The author’s knowledge of the African continent makes this a very believable read and it’s also a quality thriller.

The Conscious Parent

By Shefali Tsabary (Namaste Publishing, R160) In this book, Shefali Tsabary details how our children can only be raised as conscious adults when we as parents allow ourselves to be lifted into a higher state of consciousness. Turning the traditional notion of parenting on its head, Tsabary shifts the epicentre of the parent-child relationship away from the traditional parent-to-child “know it all” approach to a mutual parent-with-child relationship in which the parent learns alongside the child.

The author, who has a doctorate in clinical psychology, was exposed to Eastern mindfulness at an early age and integrates its teachings with Western psychology.

July 2011

25

calendar

what’s on in july

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

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

8 fri

special events

28

FUN for children

30

only for parents

32

bump, baby & tot in tow

32

how to help

32

SPECIAL EVENTS

26

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

SPCA at the ECR House and Garden Show Meet Oscar, the globetrotting dog.

Barry Hilton’s The Serial Comic You don’t want to miss out on comedy’s most wanted man.

Clamber Club Teaches stimulation and movement to toddlers and babies with active play and songs.

ECR Winter Warmth 2011 Donate a blanket and help keep people warm this winter.

July 2011

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, pirates of penzance - lebo luke warm

Ballito Prawn and Jazz Festival Good food, great music and lots of fun for the whole family.

magazine durban

July 2011

27

calendar from Durban ballet schools. Time: 7pm.

Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R135–R225. Book through Computicket: 083 915 800 or visit computicket.com

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 friday What’s Up! Rock, country and pop tribute show. Also 2, 6, 9 and 10 July. Time: 8pm, Sunday 3pm. Venue: The Stirling Theatre, Italian Club, Durban North. Cost: R80.

Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@ stirlingtheatre.co.za Family Theatre Festival An exciting drama festival for the whole family, with shows, creative workshops for children, entertainers and much more. 29 June–1 July and 6–8 July. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: 29 June–1 July Alliance Francaise, Morningside; 6–8 July Glenwood Community Church, Berea. Cost: R30. Contact Adi: 031 201 2515 or 083 725 0925

2 saturday Hannah & Miley: The Best of Both Girls Miley Cyrus teams up with her hit character Hannah Montana to bring you both sides of the star. Also 9 and 16 July.

Time: 12pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, La Mercy. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

3 sunday Cars on the Green Vintage cars on display, with refreshments and a play area available. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Village Green, Kloof and Highway SPCA, 29 Village Rd, Kloof. Cost: parking and entrance free; donation requested for entrance

14 thursday KZN Society for the Blind Golf Day A fundraising event. Time: 10am. Venue: Bluff Golf Course. Cost: R1 000 per fourball. Contact Bobby: 031 202 7277 or fundraising@kznblind.org.za

15 friday

3 July – Cars on the Green

fee. Contact Janine: 031 764 1212/3 or marketing@kloofspca.co.za

4 monday Brian Boswell’s Circus Watch lions, ponies, trapeze artists, a high-wire act and more. Ends 17 July. Time: varies. Venue: cnr Argyle and Sylvester Ntuli Rd, Durban Beach. Cost: R70–R120. Contact: 083 629 7799 or visit boswell.co.za

The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: Wednesday–Saturday R125, Tuesday night and matinee R90. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za The Nutcracker The Imperial Russian Ballet performs this premier classic and is joined on stage by South African children

Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show See locally and internationally built craft, gadgets, nautical puppetry and more. Ends 17 July. Time: 9:30am–5pm. Venue: 3 Maritime Place, Durban Marina. Cost: adults R50, others R30. Contact: 031 266 9828 or visit durbanboatshow.co.za Glenwood Community PreSchool celebration dinner Enjoy a buffet dinner and light entertainment in celebration of their 20th anniversary. Time: 7pm.

Venue: Glenwood Community Church, 115 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood. Cost: R150.

Contact Carina: 031 202 3879 or carina@ glenwoodpreschool.org.za

8

6 wednesday Kids Expo Offers exciting stalls, children’s entertainment and a tea garden for parents. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: The Collisheen Estate, Ballito. Cost: free entry.

Contact Wendy: 072 100 7025 or info@ bofnetworx.co.za

fri

8 friday Ballito Prawn and Jazz Festival Prawns, demo kitchens and jazz plus a fun fair, market, children’s carnival and more. Ends 10 July. Time: varies. Venue: Seaton Delaval Polo Fields, Salt Rock. Cost: adults R60, children 6–12 years R30. Contact: 032 586 3910 or visit ballitoprawnfestival.co.za

4–17 July – Brian Boswell’s Circus

28

July 2011

12 tuesday

Mr Price Pro Ballito

Six of the Best Pays homage to some of the greatest pop icons of all time such as Meat Loaf, Queen, Billy Joel and Bon Jovi. Ends 28 August. Time: varies. Venue:

A competitive surf competition, with a beach festival. Enjoy the acoustic melodies on Friday or hard rock on Saturday. Ends 9 July. Time: varies. Venue: Ballito. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 263 2240 or visit mrpricepro.com

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31

Masquerade Charity Ball The Highway Hospice brings you a black tie dinner, dancing and jazz. Don’t forget your mask. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Coastlands on the Ridge, 315 Peter Mokaba Ridge, Overport. Cost: R600 per person, table of 10 R5 000. Contact: 031 208 6110 or lynn@hospice.co.za

sun

17 sunday Old Mutual Music at the Lake Features Shashika Mooruth and dancers. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 322 4021 or book through ticketbreak.co.za

19 tuesday

16–17 July – Creighton Aloe Festival

16 saturday Creighton Aloe Festival Travel alongside a river and through beautiful aloes on a steam train. Tours, a cycle ride and market also available. Also 17 July. Time: train departure times Saturday 10am and 2pm, Sunday 11am. Venue: Creighton Station, Creighton. Cost: adults R180 or R210, children R120 or R210. Contact: 083 273 8037 or glynnis@toocee.co.za Durban Air Show For a spectacular day of aviation delights. Entertainment includes the Silver Falcons. Time: 7am. Venue: Virginia Airport, Durban North. Cost: adults R90, children R40. Contact John: 082 085 5514, showtime@wingsclub.co.za or visit durbanairshow.co.za

Johnny Be Good Put on your dancing shoes and make your way to listen to some good old rock n roll. Ends 14 August.

Time: Tuesday–Saturday 7pm, Sunday 12:30pm. Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190, Tuesday and Sunday R165. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za Kloof and Highway SPCA Golf day Swing into action for animals. Time: 10:30am. Venue: Kloof Country Club. Cost: R1 400 per four-ball. Contact Janine: 031 764 1212/3 or marketing@kloofspca.co.za

Joyce Broadhead Pre-Primary fun sports day Fun rides for 2–8 year olds, stalls, food and more. Time: 10:30am–2pm. Venue: Durban Prep High School, Rosetta Rd, Morningside. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 202 3427

28 thursday The Durban Good Food and Wine Show Children can meet Sid from CBeebies and go on a good food journey, or they can visit the educational farmyard and learn how to milk a cow. Parents can enjoy the wide variety of foods and cooking demos.

Famed chefs Ainsley Harriot, Rachel Allen and Willie Harcourt-Cooze also make an appearance. Ends 31 July. Time: 10am–9pm.

Venue: Durban Exhibition Centre, Durban CBD. Cost: R30–R70. For more info: visit goodfoodandwineshow.co.za

22 friday Barry Hilton’s The Serial Comic Charmed and dangerous – don’t miss out on comedy’s most wanted man. Ends 24 July. Time: 8pm, Sunday 3pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, La Mercy.

Cost: R140. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

30 saturday

28–31 July – The Durban Good Food and Wine Show with Sid from CBeebies

24 sunday

15–17 July – Durban International Boat and Lifestyle Show

magazine durban

Lyrics on the Lawn With The Steel Drum Band. Tickets available on the day. Time: 2:30pm–4pm. Venue: The Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, children 6–18 years R20. Contact: 031 322 4013 or visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za

Fun day and cultural food expo Brings you a fun fair, stalls, entertainment and more. Time: 8am–2:30pm. Venue: Gordon Road Girls’ School, 69 Gordon Rd, Morningside. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 303 2628 Open Air School market day A fundraising day with stalls, games and more.

Donations for the day also welcome. Time: 8:30am–2pm. Venue: 241 Esther Roberts Rd, Glenwood. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 205 1277 or info@openairschool.co.za Thomas More College country fair Time: 9am. Venue: 15 Sykes Rd, Kloof.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 764 8640 or visit thomasmore.co.za

July 2011

29

calendar For children 9–12 years old. 12–14 July.

Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: R75. Contact: 031 309 1170 or visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za

family outings

Horseback beach adventures

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science artSPACE Painting and sculpture exhibitions.

27 June–16 July and 18 July–6 August.

Time: Monday–Friday 9am–5pm, Saturday and public holidays 9am–2pm. Venue: 3 Millar Rd, Stamford Hill. Cost: free. Contact: 031 312 0793 or visit artspace-durban.com Dinki Artworx The North Coast Art Group exhibits Dinki art. Proceeds go

artSPACE – On the way to the Boardroom

by Lance Friedlande

30

July 2011

to the Animal Anti-Cruelty League. 25 June–10 July. Time: tbc. Venue: La Lucia Mall. Cost: free entry. Contact Jeanette: 082 963 5352

classes, talks and workshops Dharma for Kids Teaches love, compassion and wisdom. For children 5–12 years and parents. 3 July. Time: 10am–11am. Venue: Mahasiddha Buddhist Centre, 2 Hollings Rd, Malvern. Cost: R10. Contact: 031 464 0984, info@meditateindurban.org or visit meditateindurban.org E–Learner and study skills courses IT certification, or a course on time management, goal setting and more. Time: varies. Venue: 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies.

Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556, umhlanga@ computers4kids.co.za or visit computers4kids.co.za Kidz Nosh Hands-on cooking classes for children. Dates depend on venue. Time: 10:30am–12:30pm. Venues: 4 Galloway Lane, Winston Park or 10 Eskotene Ave, Everton. Cost: R100. Contact: 082 836 8112 Permaculture course for children They learn how to plant their own organic garden.

Horseback beach adventures Ride along the beach or through the bush. Pony rides available on Saturday and Sunday.

Time: Friday–Wednesday 3pm, pony rides 2pm–5pm. Venue: Reunion Park, Isipingo. Cost: R250–R350, pony rides R10. Contact: 084 467 0752 or visit horsebeachrides.co.za SPCA at the ECR House and Garden Show Meet Oscar, the globetrotting dog, and his owner and get your paw-to-graph.

24 June–3 July. Time: 10am–8pm. Venue: Durban Exhibition Centre, Durban CBD. Cost: free entry for SPCA, show entry: adults R60, children under 16 free. Contact: 031 579 6500, caroline@spcadbn.org.za or visit spcadbn.org.za uShaka Kids World Spend the day visiting the giant jungle gym or the Creative Zone. For children 2–10 years old. Time: Wednesday– Sunday and holidays 9am–6pm. Venue: uShaka Marine World. Cost: children 2–12 R40, children 12 and older R5. Contact: 031 328 8000 or visit ushakamarineworld.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Crocodile Creek Home to 7 000 types of crocodiles. Open daily. Time: 9am–5pm; guided tours at 10am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2pm and 3pm; feedings at 11am and 3pm. Venue: Tongaat. Cost: adults R50, children 11–18 years R30, children 4–10 years R20. Contact: 032 944 3845 or visit crocodilecreek.net The Animal Farmyard Offers daily milking demonstrations, a playground, pony and tractor rides and a foefie slide. Time: daily 9am–4:30pm; milking at 10:30am and 3:30pm. Venue: 3 Lello Rd, Botha’s Hill.

Cost: entry R10, rides R4. Contact: 031 765 2240 or visit animalfarmyard.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

The Animal Farmyard

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 I heart market Food and design market showcasing locally produced crafts, food and fresh veggies. 2 July. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: DLI Hall, 5 DLI Ave, Greyville. Cost: free entry. Contact: 079 496 4788 or thejoyteam@gmail.com Shongweni Farmer’s and Craft Market Food, organic and local produce and crafts.

Time: 6:30am–10am, every Saturday. Venue: cnr Kassier and Alverstone Rds, Assagay. Cost: free entry: Contact Christine: 083 777 1674 or info@shongwenimarket.co.za The food market Locally produced foods, children’s corner, mini flower market and tea garden. 30 July. Time: 8am–2pm.

Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 777 5633 or visit thefoodmarket.co.za The Litchi Orchard Farmers Market Covered market featuring live music and a children’s playground. 2 and 16 July.

Time: 9am–1pm. Cost: free entry. Venue: Seaforth Ave, Foxhill. Contact: 084 205 6151 or jeremy@litchiorchard.co.za

on stage and screen Hannah & Miley: The Best of Both Girls Miley Cyrus teams up with Hannah Montana.

2, 9 and 16 July. Time: 12pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, La Mercy.

Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

magazine durban

holiday activities

Time:

7:30am–12:30pm

or

5pm.

Acting Out Learn about mask design,

Venue: Montessori Life, 7 Little Nook,

story development and mime, and

Sunningdale. Cost: half-day R70, full-day

perform in your own play. 5–7 July.

R100. Contact Nicky: 072 444 7277 or

Time: children 5–9 years 9am–12pm,

nicky@topschools.co.za

children 10–16 years 1pm–5pm. Venue:

Sugar Bay holiday camps For children

Westville Theatre Club, Attercliffe Rd,

7–17 years. Themes this holiday include

Westville. Cost: varies. Contact Gillian:

“Aero Mania”, “Visit the Poles” and

083 325 3257 or Andrea: 082 994 0984,

“Brainiac”. 26 June–17 July. Time: 3pm

enquiries@risingstaracademy.co.za or

drop-off. Venue: Sugar Bay Holiday Resort, Zinkwazi Beach. Cost: varies. Contact: 032

visit risingstaracademy.co.za

485 3778, bookings@sugarbay.co.za or

Computer holiday club 27 June–15

visit sugarbay.co.za

July. Time: 8am–9am or 2:30pm–3:30pm.

Twiggy’s Holiday Club Offers children

Venue: suite 125, 6 Aurora Dr, Umhlanga

fun activities from a treasure hunt and

Ridge. Cost: R80. Contact: 082 042

science experiments to face painting. 24

2556, umhlanga@computers4kids.co.za or visit computers4kids.co.za Crafty Kidz Learn about paper craft,

June–15 July. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue:

5–7 July – Acting Out

Ashton International College, Ballito.

weaving and more. 4, 6, 9, 11, 13

11–15 July. Time: 8am–12pm. Venue:

King’s Camps holiday camp Combines

Cost: R120 per day. Contact Mandy:

and 16 July. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue:

Sunningdale.

elements of holiday and sports clubs

083 408 1354

Miriam Bee Sultan, Overport. Cost: R100.

kerryann.taylor5@gmail.com

to give you a week of fun. 4–8 July.

Contact Fathima: 031 903 2754

Cost:

R450.

Contact:

JB holiday care Lots of activities and

Time: 8am–3:30pm. Venue: Highbury

skills

outdoor fun in a safe environment. 27

Preparatory

development sessions Craft activities,

June–15 July. Time: 7:30am–5pm. Venue:

Hillcrest. Cost: from R400. Contact: 031

music and large muscle exercises. 27

62 Silverton Rd, Essenwood. Cost: R80

100 1011, info@sa.kingscamps.org or visit

and 30 June, 4, 7, 11 and 14 July. Time:

per day. Contact Lilian: 083 242 1677 or

sa.kingscamps.org

varies. Venue: Kerry Evetts Occupational

lilianrez@hotmail.com

Little Chefs holiday baking fun

Therapy Practice, Rey’s Business Park,

Jungle Fever holiday programme

Decorative baking for children 4 years

Ballito. Cost: R60–R75. Contact: fine

Drumkidz and Wart and Fish bring you

and older. 5–7 July and 12–14 July. Time:

motor skills 079 361 0737 or large

drum workshops, crafts, games and more.

9am–12pm. Venue: 6 Sackville Place,

motors skills 082 857 6374

For children 3–9 years. 6 and 13 July. Time:

Durban North. Cost: R100. Contact

Holiday baking fun Children can learn

10am–12pm and 2pm–4pm. Venue:

Linda: 082 836 9365

how to make and decorate biscuits,

Greenglade, 7 Chester Terrace, Westville.

Montessori

cupcakes and cakes. Classes run for

Cost: R80. Contact: 082 852 3688 or visit

holiday

five days. 27 June–1 July, 4–8 July or

drumkidz.co.za or wartandfishtrading.co.za

children 2–12 years. 27 June–15 July.

Fine

and

large

motor

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 The final instalment in the Harry Potter tale sees Harry returning to Hogwarts to destroy the last of the Horcruxes. But Voldemort is determined to stop him. This movie opens in 3D and other cinemas nationwide on 15 July Jock of the Bushveld Jock is the runt of the litter, but is always curious and fearless.

Set in Pilgrim’s Rest during the gold rush, this retelling of the famous story is about Jock’s adventures and relationships. The animated film opens in 3D and other cinemas nationwide on 29 July Lyrics on the Lawn Tickets available on the day. 24 July. Time: 2:30pm–4pm.

magazine durban

Venue: The Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, children 6–18 years R20. For more info: visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za Old Mutual Music at the Lake Features Shashika Mooruth and dancers. 17 July.

Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 322 4021 or book through ticketbreak.co.za The Nutcracker The Imperial Russian Ballet is joined on stage by South African children from Durban ballet schools. 12 July. Time: 7pm. Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R135–R225.

Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

School,

Life

club

Highbury

June

and

Rd,

July

Wholesome fun for

playtime and story time Books and Books children’s story time Time: 10am, every Saturday. Venue: Shop 42, Kensington Square, 53 Kensington Dr, Durban North. Cost: free. Contact: 031 563 6288 or booksandbooks@telkomsa.net Steam train rides Ride a miniature steam engine at the Durban Society of Model Engineers. A playground for children available. 10 and 24 July. Time: 11am–4pm.

Venue: 4 Hinton Grove, Virginia. Cost: R5 per ride. Contact: 083 284 6469

sport and physical activities Mongoose Primary Schools mountain bike series Experienced and entry level

4–8 July – King’s Camps holiday camp

school mountain bikers can join in this series. Various age categories available.

30 July. Time: 1pm. Venue: Crawford North Coast, Westbrook. Cost: R30 entry.

Contact André: 082 336 7149 or andre@ hps.co.za Suncoast Multisport Multi-series For athletes and families. It includes triathlon and duathlon events for ages 8 and older.

31 July. Time: 6am. Venue: Suncoast Casino. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 564 4062, 031 764 1885, info@bactive.biz or visit bactive.biz

family marketplace

July 2011

31

calendar

only for parents classes, talks and workshops La Lucia Tennis Club Year-round social community tennis. Time: varies Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Venue: La Lucia Tennis Club. Cost: free. Contact Pam: 031 564 4344 or Richard: 031 561 1224 Meryl’s School of Cooking With baking and pastry classes, and Greek cuisine, plus a course for domestic workers. Time: varies. Venue: 1 Wingfield Rd, Kloof. Cost: varies. Contact Meryl: 031 764 6577, meryl@absamail.co.za or visit merylschoolofcooking.co.za Sugar Me cake decorating and icing art workshops For anyone 10 years and older. Time: 9am–1pm, every Tuesday.

Venue: Durban North. Cost: R450, children under 16 R225. Contact: 076 302 3396 or sugarme@rdesigns.co.za

on stage and screen Barry Hilton’s The Serial Comic Charmed and dangerous. 22–24 July. Time: 8pm, Sunday 3pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, La Mercy. Cost: R140. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Johnny Be Good Listen to some good old rock n roll. 19 July–14 August. Time: Tuesday–Saturday 7pm, Sunday 12:30pm.

Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190, Tuesday and Sunday R165. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za Six of the Best Pays homage to great pop icons. 12 July–28 August. Time: varies.

Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway.

Cost: Wednesday–Saturday R125, Tuesday night and matinee R90. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za What’s Up! Rock, country and pop tribute show. 1, 2, 6, 9 and 10 July. Time: 8pm, Sunday 3pm. Venue: The Stirling Theatre, Italian Club, Durban North. Cost: R80.

Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@ stirlingtheatre.co.za

support groups ADHASA Support Groups For adult and child ADHD. Meetings are irregular. For details on ADHASA, meeting times and support, contact Stuart: 031 298 8896 or Robin: 082 499 1344 CANSA Support Durban North For survivors, relatives and friends. Second

Sugar Me cake decorating and icing art workshops

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 Compassionate Friends Support group for family and friends who have lost a loved one. 24 July. 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 depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood and anxiety disorders.

For referral to the relevant support group, contact the national helpline: 0800 20 51 21 Down Syndrome Association KZN Intuthuko support group meeting for those with Down’s syndrome and their families. 16 July. Venue: Anglican Church Hall, Umbilo Rd. Contact: 076 978 9811 or the office: 031 464 2055 Durban Autism Support An informal and volunteer-based Asperger’s support service. Contact Di: 083 443 8385 or dimaitland@tiscali.co.za Famsa Offers family and relationship counselling, parenting guidance, conflict resolution and more. Contact: 031 202 8987 or visit 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood, Durban Hi Hopes Offers support and information to families of babies with hearing loss.

Contact Cheryl: 082 447 1142, cheryl. devnath@gmail.com or visit wits.ac.za/ Humanities/Education/Deaf+Studies/ HIHOPES Hoping is Coping Nationwide support groups for those newly diagnosed with cancer and their families. Contact:

011 646 5628, lgold@icon.co.za or visit cansa.org.za Reach for Recovery breast cancer support group Gets together for bringand-share morning teas. Contact: 031 205 9525 or 072 248 0008 Sadag South African Depression and Anxiety Group. For more information or referral to a support group visit sadag.co.za Speak Easy Support group for those who stutter, their family and friends.

Contact Imraan: 082 786 3718 or visit speakeasy.org.za The KZN Cerebral Palsy Association The website has the diary of a mother with a cerebral palsied child. Visit: kzncerebralpalsy.co.za/diary.php

Toptots Children 8 weeks–4 years can join an age-appropriate class to learn and play.

Time: varies. Venues: branches in Durban North, Ballito, Kloof, Hillcrest, Westville and Hilton. Cost: from R810 per term. Contact: 031 266 4910, 082 876 7791, info@toptots. co.za or visit toptots.co.za

For more support groups visit childmag.co.za/resources/supportgroups

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Expectant Parents Seminar Parents expecting twins or triplets can learn about breast-feeding, routines, plus get tips. 30 July. Time: 12:30pm–5pm. Venue: Parklands Netcare Hospital, Overport.

Cost: member couple R150, nonmember couple R180. Contact: 082 338 2625, kzn@samultiplebirth.co.za or visit samultiplebirth.co.za Infant massage workshops Structured baby massage. New workshop beginning 6 July. Time: 10:30am–12pm. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: four sessions R550.

Contact Alison: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or lasting.impressions.studio@ gmail.com Pregnancy Body Stretch Exercise classes for moms to be. Time: Monday and Wednesday 1pm. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: one lesson R60, eight lessons R320. Contact Alison: 031 267 0435, 083 661 6682 or lasting.impressions.studio@gmail.com

playtime and story time Clamber Club Movement and stimulation classes for toddlers and babies, in ageappropriate groups. Time: varies. Venues: baby classes available in Hillcrest, toddler classes available in Ballito, Durban North and Kloof. Cost: varies. For more info: visit clamberclub.com Moms and Tots and Moms and Babes workshops Children learn through play and socialisation. Time: varies. Venues: branches available in Umhlanga, Durban North, the Highway area and Glenwood.

Cost: varies. Contact: info@momsandtots. co.za or visit momsandbabes.co.za or momsandtots.co.za

Moms and Babes support group

support groups Moms and Babes support group Meets monthly for a talk. 12 July. Time: 9am–10:30am. Venue: Alberlito Hospital, Ballito. Cost: free. Contact: 032 946 6956 or 032 946 1826 Postnatal Depression Support Association of South Africa Call the national helpline on 082 882 0072 or visit pndsa.co.za The South African Multiple Birth Association Support group for families with multiples. For counselling, contact: 082 338 2625 kzn@samultiplebirth.co.za or visit samultiplebirth.co.za For more support groups visit childmag.co.za/resources/supportgroups

how to help ECR’s Winter Warmth 2011 East Coast Radio and The Hub are collecting blankets and donations. You can help by buying a blanket from them for R35, or drop off a blanket at East Coast Radio. Also make a cash donation at The Hub or at ecr.co.za Focus on iThemba A place of hope for children who have lost parents to HIV/ Aids, providing care and education. You can volunteer time, help them to raise awareness, or make a financial donation.

For more info: visit focusonithemba.org SPCA’s 2012 Calendar Inspirations of Africa is the 2012 SPCA calendar and goes on sale in July. R150 per calendar. To order contact Janine: marketing@kloofspca.co.za

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 6 July for the August 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 Focus on iThemba

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July 2011

magazine durban

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

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magazine durban

July 2011

33

last laugh

the (quirky) things families say SAM WILSON adores the silliness of made-up words and malapropisms,

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Joe, Sam and Benj

very family develops its own vocabulary, a secret lexicon that has brought joy, for no apparent reason, for generations. I don’t know why we all don’t just leave the language as it was meant to be spoken, but I am glad we don’t, because it is one of my favourite bits of family life.

My parents, brothers and I, for example, call a specific type of takeout pizza the “one with extra nose squeakers”.

I have no idea why. It may be because of the peppadews or because it’s a bit more expensive, but I do know that we chuckle every time we order it. We also say “cheerio folks” every time someone orders a steak, because it’s what my late grandmother used to say.

34

July 2011

I know this is not peculiar to my family.

My twitter friend, Gus Silber, recently shared that he and his daughter have hit upon the deliciousness of the word “swag”. They yell it out randomly, by all accounts, and it gives them so much satisfaction.

(Being particularly delighted by the word myself – so plummy and inextricably associated with that perennial corker “swashbuckle” – I tried to get this practice to catch on in my own family, but alas, it appears a family’s verbal quirks can’t be transplanted.)

The Silber Swag rhymes with another one of my family’s word idiosyncrasies. My boys and I often say “blag”, consciously mispronouncing “blog” and tipping a cap to the web cartoonists xkcd, who started that joke.

Sounds silly? It is. “Have you read my blag? No? You should link to it from your

website.” Have I ever mentioned how much I adore silly?

Unfortunately, once you find a more fun way of pronouncing a word, it’s very hard to go back. I now say “ronts” instead of “rands” for example, and “Canadia” instead of “Canada”. I once heard someone lean over to my older brother and whisper, “Oh how embarrassing for you. You don’t say ‘fox pax’; faux pas is pronounced ‘fou paah’.” Naturally, we continue to “fox pax” with relish at every opportunity.

When not deliberately mispronouncing words, we are often adding them to others.

“Do you want to go to the shops with me?” I’ll ask my son, Benj.

“Absofruitly,” he’ll reply.

Then of course, there are family movie words. Ever seen The Castle? If you have seen it, no doubt the phrases “aah, the serenity” and “this is going straight to the pool room” feature in your family’s lexicons

too. And I am sure many of your homes have also embraced bon mots (nope, just pronounced bon mots) from the legendary shows of Monty Python, Fawlty Towers and Eddie Izzard.

And then there’s just the making of pleasing noises at each other.

Like when Andreas sees Benj, he breaks into a soft smile and says, “Hello my Schneegle Feegle Beagle!”

“Hello my Daddy Paddy Faddy!” Benj will say back. Why do we do all this? I really have no idea, but I do know that it’s one of the weird aspects of family life that amuses me the most. Which is why I wrote a whole colombe about it.

Sam Wilson is the Editor-in-Chief of Women24, Parent24 and Food24.com... and has just been struck by the absurdity of her enjoyment of misspoken words, when her job is ostensibly to check others’ spelling and grammar.

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPH: Andreas SpÄth

especially when they form part of your kin’s secret language.