D U R B A N ’ S
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dress the part should play give way to fashion?
spring into
action 20+ ways to get fit for a good cause
be invigorated moms take time out
chuck the
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September 2011
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My husband and I recently celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary. Our agreement is that we don’t buy gifts. In fact, most years we can’t even remember the exact date of our wedding and have to call my mom-in-law to check. This year, however, my husband not only remembered, but he reneged on our agreement and bought me a present – a second-hand treadmill. By now all you psychologists out there are having a field day… Regardless of your analysis, I was thrilled. I have done little to no exercise since Robyn was born nine years ago, and I have reached the stage when enough is enough; I have to exercise. Every second morning sees me up at 5am, heading for “the baby room” that now houses our makeshift gym. I close the door, open the curtains, turn up Green Day as loudly as I can without disturbing my neighbour, who also greets the sunrise – but with prayer – and I run. I am not a natural runner, but somehow I manage to keep going because I am tired of being tired, and tired of looking and
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feeling out of shape. But this time I am not getting fit for summer, I am getting fit for me, and I’m loving it! So, this September, no matter what the weather is like outside, inside it feels like spring. If you need a goal to get you going, turn to our resource on page 20 for fun ways to exercise and support a good cause. I’ve picked my event – I hope you do too. Happy spring day.
If you love the magazine, you’ll love our website. Visit us at childmag.co.za
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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 Peter Mokaba Road, Overport, 4091. Tel: 031 209 2200, fax: 031 207 3429, email: durban@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Durban’s Child 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.
September 2011
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contents
september 2011
24
regulars 6 wins 11 upfront with paul
10 upfront 3
a note from lisa
6 over to you
readers respond
8 reader’s blog Gareth Davies compares dog training with raising a child
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12 dealing with difference Marina Zietsman shares the story of a young boy who has dwarfism 20 resource – fun philanthropy Tamlyn Vincent compiled a list of sport events that raise funds for charity 24 a good read
new books for the whole family
26 what’s on in september 34 last laugh Sam Wilson discovered roller coasters among the European castles
features 14 high fashion versus child’s play
Paul Kerton reminds us that a car is not a playground
classified ads 33 let’s party
a re we dressing our children in impractical clothes? Anél Lewis finds out
34 family marketplace
16 declutter!
experts give advice on how to organise your home. By Robyn Goss
18 mom’s away!
Donna Cobban speaks to a few moms who were bold enough to take a holiday without their children in tow
18
health 10 not to be sneezed at
is it just an allergic reaction or is it an asthma attack? By Anél Lewis
this month’s cover images are supplied by:
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September 2011
Johannesburg
Cape Town
Durban
shutterstock.com
shutterstock.com
Accessorize www.accessorize.co.za
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September 2011
5
wins
up to the challenge
keep rollin’
The much-anticipated Pediasure Toddler Sense Seminars, in association with TopTots, are being held countrywide in October this year. Join author and toddler expert Ann Richardson, and her guest speakers, for a morning of discussions on food, behaviour and development. For more information about the day, visit toddlersense.co.za One Durban’s Child reader stands a chance to win a double ticket to the seminar and a hamper from Metz Press, TopTots and Pediasure. Email us or post your details and mark it as “Toddler Sense DBN Win”.
Turn your child’s favourite pair of shoes into roller skates – just adjust the size to fit their shoes, strap on the skates and let them roll away. Roller Kidz Heel Skates are great for exercise and can be adjusted to fit adult shoes too. Adults must weigh no more than 90kg. For a list of retailers that stock Roller Kidz Heel Skates visit rollerkidz.co.za Five pairs of Roller Kidz Heel Skates, valued at R350 each, are up for grabs. Simply email or post us your details and mark it as “Roller Kidz DBN Win”.
how to enter
congratulations to our July winners
Unless it is otherwise stated, emailed entries go to win@ childmag.co.za and postal entries go to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Only one entry per reader is allowed and entries must be received by 30 September 2011.
Marie Claire Payze and Sharene Kymdell who each win a Prima Toys hamper; Jessika Sowdagar who wins a family getaway to The Cavern; Chantal Vicent, Greg Phipps, Toni Mowat, Kasturi Mohunlal and Michelle Goobiah who each win Mega Bloks and Wentzel Coetzer who wins a num.8+ GPS locator.
letters
over to you in response to the article posted online: what teachers wish they could tell you This article needs to be circulated to all parents. As a teacher, there is nothing more frustrating than a rude parent who thinks their child is never in the wrong and one that undermines the teacher. As the saying goes: “There are no problem children, only problem parents.” I’ll be sure to print this and put it up on our staff board. If I were the headmistress I’d have a good mind to include it in the next newsletter that goes out to the parents. to read the article, visit childmag.co.za/content/ what-teachers-wish-they-could-tell-you
give guidance, not medication Firstly, I would like to thank you for your wonderful magazine. I look forward to reading it every month. I have read the August issue with great enthusiasm as my son, who is seven, has concentration issues. He is also the youngest in his class; he only turns eight at the end of the year. When my son’s teacher told me that he has ADHD, I was devastated. However, I was not going to put him on medication as she suggested. The teacher also continually told me that my son was a bright little boy and this confused me. I did a lot of research and through the help of a friend who had been in a similar
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situation, I opted to seek the advice of a neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) specialist. He explained to me that my son is a visual learner, and this has changed the way in which we do homework. Now there is no more fighting and begging in this home, just a happy little boy. I added omega-3 and omega-6 to my son’s diet and he has been taking supplements. I am pleased to tell you that he is flourishing. His teacher cannot believe the change in him. I realize that this is going to be an ongoing lifestyle change, but I am happy that I did not resort to “conventional” treatment. I am leaving this issue of Child magazine on the teacher’s desk, and I hope that in future she will not be so quick to jump to the ADHD conclusion. A little encouragement and guidance for all children will go a lot further than medication. Andrea
turn it off! I read a quote today that reminded me of a few important and inspiring things: “If you find you don’t have time to do the things you love most, turn off the TV”. I realized that I had very quickly gone from someone who didn’t even own a TV to someone with a DStv connection and a plasma screen, and that they consumed my evenings. I thought back to all the times I had said to my friends, “since my baby was born, I never have the chance to read
anymore” and that if I did get time to read, I just wasn’t using it. Then, I picked up my Child magazine and had a good laugh at a few of the articles. I actually felt as if I learnt something. Not only did a thing or two inspire me as a parent, but I also realized that the simple act of turning off the TV in the evenings, frees up a whole lot of hours for me to indulge in one of my favourite pastimes – reading. Your magazine was a great place to start. Nicole Stephens Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
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Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters to: marina@
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giveaways in september
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September 2011
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blog
basic training When it comes to raising pets and children, the same rules apply, says new parent and
a
s both a pet owner of two dogs, a four-year-old male Golden Retriever and a year-old female Labrador, and a new parent (of a seven-month-old little boy), I am really amazed at the similarities between training a pet and raising a child. Many people will say that dogs are dogs and children are children, but in actual fact, as Cesar Millan always says, they are both young animals that require exercise, discipline and affection from their owners or parents. Obviously some aspects of raising dogs and children differ, especially when the latter get a bit older, but the principles are the same. A dog or a child who is allowed free rein of the house will turn into a spoilt brat. Without boundaries, how will they learn what is acceptable behaviour and what is not?
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Anyone who has watched Dog Whisperer or Supernanny will notice that it is almost always the pet owner or parent who causes the problems. Cesar and Jo Frost spend more time on their shows educating the caregivers than dealing with the dog or child. For those who don’t believe me, tune into the Dog Whisperer on DStv and watch how Cesar handles problem animals. He remains calm and assertive at all times. Isn’t this something we as parents should strive towards? Sure it’s difficult when your little one throws a screaming tantrum in Woolies, but getting angry and upsetting yourself just makes things worse. If you remain calm, it makes the situation much easier to deal with. Cesar advises dog owners to follow through when they want their pets to
do something. How many times have you asked your child to pack up their toys, only to see them strewn around the room an hour later? Every time you tell them to do it and they don’t, and you don’t enforce what you want done, they get the upper hand. And we all know, getting them to change their ways once they are in control is extremely difficult. If you had just enforced what you wanted from the beginning, there would be no problems. Cesar asks all dog owners to exercise their pets daily. Do we do this with our children or do we plonk them in front of the TV when we want some time out for ourselves? If we don’t let them exercise at least once a day, their frustration builds, they don’t sleep well and they start acting up.
Of course, giving affection is a must for dogs and children, but what’s important is giving it at the right time. Don’t do it when your child screams or throws a tantrum. Rather give affection when it’s really needed; after a fall or when your child is calm and receptive to a positive reinforcement of your love. We could all improve our parenting skills if we stick to some dog training basics in the early years.
Readers, this is your column – it’s a space to air your views, share a valuable parenting lesson, vent your frustrations or celebrate your joys. Send your writing to features@childmag.co.za
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illustrationS: shutterstock.com / Nikki-leigh Piper
“child whisperer” GARETH DAVIES.
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September 2011
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health
not to be sneezed at Your child is wheezing and struggling to breathe. Is it an allergic reaction or an asthmatic attack? ANÉL LEWIS finds out.
similar triggers n allergy is an abnormal immune reaction to an allergen, explains Prof Eugene Weinberg of the Allergy Diagnostic Unit at the University of Cape Town’s Lung Institute. If this reaction occurs in the nose or lungs, the body releases histamines and other chemicals, causing the mucous membranes to swell. This may lead to a runny nose and streaming, itchy eyes, and heavy bouts of sneezing. About one in five people in South Africa have an allergy of some kind, says Weinberg. There are various types of allergies, but it is the nasal allergy that is related to, and often confused with, asthma. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects the airways, making it difficult for someone to breathe. The small airways narrow and there is an inflammation of the membranes. There may also be an overproduction of mucous. Signs of asthma include a tight chest and wheezing, a dry cough and difficulty breathing. About 80 percent of all childhood asthma is diagnosed before the age of five and Dr Adrian Morris, a Cape Town-based
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Spring can be an uncomfortable time for children who suffer from either condition, as both may be triggered by excessive pollen in the air. Other common causes include animal dander, mould, house dust mites, cockroaches and tobacco smoke. Both asthma and allergies tend to be inherited, and Weinberg says a child with a family history of hay fever, eczema or asthma is likely to develop an allergy. Asthma can also be triggered by a viral infection or environmental factors such as insecticides, a change in the weather, processed foods, extreme emotions and physical exertion. Children with asthma don’t have to avoid exercise, but they are advised to opt for activities requiring short bouts of energy. Swimming is often recommended.
treatment Asthma can’t be cured, but it can be controlled. Reliever medications offer immediate relief for the symptoms, and usually last four to six hours, while controller medications prevent the onset of an attack. Both can be administered in tablet form, with an inhaler, syringe or nebuliser. Make sure your school knows that your child has asthma and takes
medication. Dr Mike Levin, writing for the National Asthma Education Programme (NEAP) based in Johannesburg, says asthmatics should also be aware of any possible allergies that could trigger an attack. A rare trigger in younger children could be certain foods, such as cow’s milk. An allergy such as hay fever may be seasonal or more chronic. Hay fever can be treated with oral antihistamines or topical steroid nasal sprays. Weinberg says there is also a new treatment, using drops of the grass allergen, which can be placed under the tongue to desensitise a sufferer to the allergy.
famous asthma sufferers Rugby player Schalk Burger and Olympic gold medallist, swimmer Ryk Neethling.
useful contacts Allergy Society of South Africa 021 447 9091 or visit allergysa.org National Asthma Education Programme 011 643 2755 or visit asthma.co.za
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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
allergy expert, says that more than half of affected children will outgrow the condition by their teens.
upfront with paul
car control PAUL KERTON reminds his daughters that a ride in his hallowed chariot is a privilege, and that there’s no place in it for smelly jelly.
Saskia, Paul and Sabina
PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN
i
cleaned my car the other day. Well, I lie, I actually took it to Land Rover for something minor to be fixed and they cleaned it inside and out. It was spotless. I drove around all morning delighting at the shiny dashboard, sparkling wheel trims, zen-like interior and clear windscreen. Then I picked up my daughters from school. Within five minutes, the car looked like a garbage truck. How do they do it? Where did that sticky stuff come from? “Oh that’s smelly jelly,” said Sabina, before she gleefully threw it at the windscreen – splat! – sending a trillion globules of red sticky jelly throughout the entire cabin; oblivious to the fact that her ice lolly was melting from the bottom up and dripping over my nice clean upholstery. “What’s that? Oh no!” A topless
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red Koki was bleeding into the fabric. “You must put the tops back on,” I chided, as my nostrils were assailed by the most revolting smell. “Have you let one go?” “That’s why it’s called smelly jelly,” said my dear mischievous daughter, grinning. “Girls! We need to talk.” In a vain attempt to exact some discipline, I first tried to appeal to their aesthetic sense, explaining that the car is a vital means of transport with the accent on speed, comfort and safety and that it was not a good idea to have droplets of smelly jelly obscuring the sight of oncoming traffic. “Sorry Officer, I didn’t see you flagging me down because of the red mist on the inside of the windscreen.” The car is not a playroom. But then again, it’s not as if I
can ban them from the car. What are they going to do – walk home? When I was 11, I used to walk a kilometre from school to a train station, admittedly through a beautiful countryside, catch a train for three stops and then walk another kilometre home; mostly with other children, but often on my own. I realise you can’t always do this in South Africa (you can’t in the UK anymore either) but this chauffeured lifestyle is incredibly privileged and hellishly time- and petrolconsuming, whether it’s me, mom or Gran doing the driving. It also breeds a false expectation of the real world. When they grow up, get jobs and start experiencing stress, they will be doubly shocked when they have to find their own way home. The
least they can do in the meantime is treat our hallowed chariots with some respect. When we arrived home, they were both out of the car like pedigree greyhounds, leaving all their bags, books and rubbish behind. This was definitely not on and I brought them back to pick up every morsel of junk that was theirs. The new rule is: what you bring to the car you take away with you. Otherwise, minutes later, one of them will be screaming for her flipflops, only to find that they are under the passenger seat. Now, how do we get rid of that smelly jelly? “Hello, garage? My brakes are making this horrendous squeaking noise...” Paul Kerton is the author of Fab Dad: A Man’s Guide to Fathering.
September 2011
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dealing with difference
we all start out small MARINA ZIETSMAN tells the story of a boy with
j
oshua is 10 years old and he dreams of becoming the first “little pilot” to soar our skies. His mom, Rachelle van Staden, tells him he can be anything he sets his mind to. Other people might give Joshua one look and whisper behind cupped hands: “It’s not likely”. And even though this plucky boy is used to people whispering about him, annoyingly trying to be circumspect, it does make him furious. You see, Joshua was born with achondroplasia, one of the most common forms of dwarfism. Rachelle thinks back to the birth of her son by Caesarean section. “It was all very confusing. I was not aware that I was giving birth to a child with dwarfism. My gynaecologist did not detect it during my pregnancy and the staff at the hospital called it a ‘growth abnormality’.”
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Shortly after Joshua’s birth, Rachelle’s marriage failed. She had to cope with a newborn, who at the time was undergoing tests and MRI scans, and she was mom to then seven-year-old Shane. She admits that for the next two years of her youngest son’s life she felt shock, numbness, hopelessness, denial and anger. “The most difficult part was caring for a child who others considered abnormal. I also struggled to understand this genetic disorder, when none of my or my husband’s family has a history of dwarfism. Shane couldn’t understand why his baby brother’s ‘head was so big’. I realised then that I’d have to educate myself about this condition to be able to accept it.” The acceptance came after Rachelle completed a counsellor’s training course offered by SAIDA (The South African Inherited Disease Association). Empowered
by her knowledge, she started building a normal life for her family. Shane, although baffled by his brother’s “big head”, soon realised Joshua was like any other baby: adorable, funny and full of energy. And as the pair grew older, Shane constantly felt the need to protect his younger brother. “I told Shane that God gave him his brother so that he could be Joshua’s hero and look out for him. This gave Shane’s confidence a huge boost. Who wouldn’t want to be a hero?” Initially Shane felt neglected when his sibling needed more attention (Joshua regularly has to undergo tests at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital), but with the help of family and friends, even this obstacle was overcome. Today Shane understands his role in Joshua’s life, and the two love spending time together
playing drums, something which Shane inspired in Joshua. Joshua is a busy person, like any boy his age, despite his physical disadvantage. And it takes a Herculean effort for someone like Joshua to try and lead a normal life, even if it simply means making people understand that he is normal. Although Joshua does have medical problems common to children born with achondroplasia, his greatest battle is simply getting through everyday life. “Joshua faced ridicule and teasing from ignorant children and adults from an early age,” says Rachelle. “I call them ignorant because they don’t know any better and they act that way because they don’t know how to treat people who look different from them.” Rachelle admits it affected the whole family. “I used to get very angry with people
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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com
dwarfism who manages to stand tall and dream big.
who stared or made insensitive remarks, but I had to teach myself not to get upset. At first Joshua was unperturbed by these stares and whispers, but as he got older he couldn’t ignore it anymore.” The family adopted a motto: “these ignorant people are not part of our lives in any way”. Even Joshua embraced this dictum. But when he started school, it was a big ask of him to stick to the family’s motto, which had come easy in the shadow of his mom’s protective presence. Joshua’s first year in school was tough academically, emotionally and socially, as the teasing gave him low self-esteem. The inevitable happened: being bullied caused Joshua to develop behavioural problems, and instinct turned him into a bully to defend himself. Eventually Rachelle had to intervene by addressing the parents of Joshua’s classmates to explain his condition and how their children should treat him. In Grade 1, Joshua was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and his mom removed him from his mainstream school and enrolled him in a special needs school. The fact that he has achondroplasia can unfortunately cloud perceptions of why Joshua attends this school. Rachelle says that even though the decision to change Joshua’s school was
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difficult, she now knows she has done the right thing. “With the help of medication and specially-trained teachers, he is doing really well. But he is still being teased, and like any normal child he has learnt to defend himself. He doesn’t back out of a fight though… a habit I’m still trying to get out of him.” When Joshua is not fending off bullies, he lives a normal life. He swims, plays cricket and soccer and loves watching wrestling on television. He is also a talented artist who draws and paints, takes drama, dances to hip-hop music and plays drums in the youth band at church. Like most children he doesn’t want to be ridiculed or teased; he wants others to treat him as an equal, hang-ups and all. American actor Peter Dinklage, who received outstanding reviews for his role as Finbar McBride in the 2003 film The Station Agent, and who has achondroplasia, sums it up: “Dwarves are [play] either all-knowing sages, fools or Frodo. This is the first time that someone of my height has been a romantic lead in a movie. It is crazy to think it has never been done before.” But, director Thomas McCarthy did not create the McBride character with dwarfism in mind. He cast Dinklage because he is a good actor. Hopefully one day, Joshua will also realise that no dream is too big, even for someone with achondroplasia.
what is dwarfism? Dr Michael Urban, a medical genetics specialist at Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, explains: “Dwarfism is a term used to describe the appearance of people who are affected by one of the many ‘skeletal dysplasias’ – the medical term for genetic conditions affecting bone growth. Many different genes are involved in the control of bone growth, with different genes being important in different bones and in different components of a specific bone.” Urban says there are many possible genetic causes of dwarfism related to faulty functioning of different genes, and many of these will lead to specific patterns in external appearance or on X-ray. As a rule, dwarfism is associated not only with significant short stature but also with disproportion in length between the limbs and the body.
genetics Achondroplasia most commonly occurs as an “autosomal dominant new mutation”, which means that couples with a child who has achondroplasia are unlikely to have another affected child, unless one of the parents themselves has achondroplasia.
treatment “The medical value of a specific diagnosis such as achondroplasia is that it allows one to anticipate particular health problems that occur more commonly, often at particular times of life,” says Urban. Medical monitoring can then be targeted towards, for example, breathing difficulties and spinal deformity in infancy, glue ear and leg curvature in childhood, spinal narrowing in adolescence, and a tendency toward obesity and arthritis in adulthood. In addition, a specific diagnosis allows one to distinguish conditions such as achondroplasia, in which there is a low recurrence risk for the couple’s future children, from those with a higher recurrence risk.
for more information or support: The South African Inherited Disease Association (SAIDA) visit saida.org.za Little People of South Africa littlepeopleofsouthafrica@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page: Little People of South Africa
September 2011
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spotlight
high fashion versus child’s play Are we encouraging our children to grow up too quickly by dressing them in trendy, and often impractical, outfits? ANÉL LEWIS reports.
Maybe we would spend less money on occupational therapy if our children were allowed to dress in such a way that encouraged them to play.
Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, inappropriate clothing was potentially a significant barrier to children’s outdoor play. In some cases, children avoided playing games because they had been warned “not to ruin” their expensive outfits. Awkward outfits and unsuitable shoes, such as flip-flops, also hindered play. Liz Senior, a Johannesburg occupational therapist and founder of Clamber Club, says toddlers and young children will usually remove uncomfortable clothing if it bothers them while they play. Some schools have strict policies about clothing. The Royal Drakensberg Primary School warns parents that inappropriate clothing will be restrictive to children’s play and the New Beginnings Montessori School in Johannesburg advises against dresses, as they make climbing and sitting difficult for girls. When it comes to choosing baby and children’s wear, parents agree that safety, practicality, durability, suitability and cost are among their main concerns.
safety Woolworths, a popular choice for parents looking for children’s clothing, says each garment in its range is scanned with a metal detector to remove potentially harmful items. The retailer only uses nickel- and ferrousfree metal trims, their press studs have been tested to ensure they are securely attached and any decorative trim is tested for safety and durability. Jacadi, a brand of clothing for newborns to children 14 years old, and Okaïdi, which caters for children up to 12 years old, uses mainly 100 percent cotton, wool and denim for its clothing ranges. Both brands focus on the choice of fabrics, durability and practical style, says brand manager Nazreen Khota. Naartjie, which caters for babies and children up to the age of 10, describes its clothing as “rugged enough to endure long days of play, yet bright and colourful enough to reflect the playful, imaginative spirit of childhood.” Naartjie’s Esperanza Louw says the clothing is versatile and soft to allow for easy movement. “Children need to be children.” Their range, while stylish, is durable enough to withstand the rigours of the playground.
off the rack Megan Roberts, of Johannesburg, complains that she can’t find basic baby clothes. “You just don’t get plain babygrows past the age of six months anymore. Everything is so grown up, with frills and jeans for example. They are only small for a short time, why should we force them to grow up and wear adult clothes when they are so young?” The biggest gripe for parents of older children, particularly girls, is the dearth of age-appropriate items. Philippa Byron, of Cape Town, shops regularly for her nieces, aged four and six. The older girl is tall for her age, so Philippa has to look
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I’m really struggling to find clothes that are age-appropriate. It seems that when children pass six years old, they become teenagers, or adults in fact. for clothes sized seven to eight. “I’m really struggling to find clothes that are age-appropriate. It seems that when children pass six years old, they become teenagers, or adults in fact.” Cape Town mother Nathalie Harper-Leblond says the clothing for small girls in the two to five year age group is unsuitable. “Their clothes are (mostly) synthetic, sequined, neon and branded. I do not want my two-year-old in a Bratz or Barbie outfit.” She is also concerned about the sale of padded bras for younger girls. Debbie complains that one retailer has a six to 16-yearold clothing section. “Really? Do six-year-olds have anything in common with 16-year-olds? Do they need to dress the same? Maybe we would spend less money on occupational therapy if our children were allowed to dress in such a way that encouraged them to play.” Philippa agrees, saying that the grouping together of clothing for children and teenagers is “ridiculous”. She adds, “It bothers me that some clothes for seven-year-olds have sexy elements too.” Debbie says retailers would stop stocking inappropriate children’s clothing if parents boycotted them. “Children grow up so quickly; too quickly in many cases. Can’t they just be children while they are children?” Brett Kaplan, Woolworth’s group director of clothing and general merchandise, says the retailer relies on “regular customer feedback” and “insights from panels of parents” when it evaluates the appropriateness and appeal of a range of clothing. “(We) try to ensure that children’s wear is age-appropriate and offers customers something to suit their needs and tastes.” Louw says Naartjie strives to keep its clothing age-appropriate. “We never use black and we don’t do revealing outfits.” magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHS: Losevsky Pavel / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
equined tops, padded bras and high heel shoes – all fine in a women’s clothing store, but should you be able to buy these items in the children’s section? Many parents say definitely not. But it seems as if finding appropriate, practical clothing for children is becoming increasingly difficult. Cape Town mother Debbie Hutton says she feels “disillusioned and nauseous” when she has to find outfits for her daughters aged five and nine. Both girls are big for their age, so she is already browsing in the teenage section. “Having to shop in the teenage department for a nine-year-old is challenging. The clothes are impractical for the general day-to-day activities of that age, such as riding a bike, kicking a ball and rollerblading. High fashion and child’s play don’t mix too well.” There is scientific evidence to back up Debbie’s concern. According to a study reported in the International
brand overload
price watch
Debbie doesn’t let her girls watch the Twilight series, but then she has to stop them from wearing clothing emblazoned with their characters. Cape Town mother Zita Carmen Wicht says her “tomboy princess” does not want to wear Barbie clothing, but she struggles to find alternatives. The same goes for boys who get to choose between Ben10, Spider-Man or wrestling motifs for most of their clothing. Kaplan says, “Variety is important as we serve a diverse spectrum of customers. Character branded clothing accounts for a very small percentage of our children’s wear catalogue.”
Parents tend to opt for cheaper clothing for everyday wear, especially if they have babies who are starting to crawl, and then splurge on better quality items for weekends or special occasions. As children grow so quickly, it often makes better financial sense to buy the basics at mainstream department stores. Nathalie says she used to balk at the prices of the clothing at some boutique children’s shops. “But I have discovered that their clothes wash and wear really well, plus the cut on their dresses means that as your little one gets taller, the garment becomes a T-shirt. So, despite being expensive, I reckon it’s worth it.”
shopping tips 1. Make sure the item can be easily put on and removed. For babies, look for items that don’t have finicky buttons and clasps. Toddlers and older children should be able to dress themselves with ease. 2. Consider the season. For summer clothes, make sure the fabric is loose fitting and breathable. Some retailers sell clothing with an SPF. Winter clothes should be warm but not too restrictive. Dress your baby or child in layers that can be removed as the temperature changes. 3. Will the item be comfortable to wear? While a frilly skirt may look great, it will not pass muster on the playground. Also make sure waistbands and sleeves are not too tight, to allow for free movement. 4. Think about safety. Avoid anything with buttons, zips or ties for infants and toddlers. Opt for fire-retardant and anti-pill fabrics. 5. Infants have especially sensitive skin. Choose hypoallergenic fabric where possible. 6. Sizing is important. While it may be cost-effective to buy clothing your child will “grow into”, buying something that is too big may lead to tripping or awkward play.
magazine durban
too much too soon? Many parents feel that clothing with suggestive slogans should not be on the racks in the children’s section. Cape Town-based clinical sexologist Dr Marlene Wasserman says that while these items can contribute to the sexualisation of children, and should be objected to, it is up to the parents to instil self-esteem and body knowledge. “Then it really won’t matter what the girl wears. She will see it as fashion and not let it impact on her sexuality, positively or negatively.” Girls are also starting to develop at a younger age, which means they are buying bras much earlier. British retailers have been lambasted for selling padded and plunge bras for girls from the age of seven. In SA, shops sell padded bras, starting at size 28AA, with their clothes for young girls. While the onset of puberty may create a need for a padded bra, Wasserman says peer pressure and the media could be drivers. They “feed into the girl’s need to feel grown up”. However, she cautions against letting girls think they are only as good as their breasts, as is often portrayed in the media. If you don’t want your child to wear a padded bra, give considered reasons for your decision. But be aware of fashion trends. You don’t want her to feel as if she is the only girl in her circle without one, says Wasserman.
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15
how to
declutter! Controlling mess is a problem for many of us. ROBYN GOSS asks the experts for their top spring-cleaning tips to keep the chaos at bay.
• Make a list of all the areas that frustrate you the most and start organising there, says Tracey Foulkes of Get Organised. • Try to make your organising fun – play music, challenge yourself to beat the clock or ask someone to help. • Start with an end picture in mind. Do you want a minimalist-style environment or would you like to see your belongings displayed on open shelves? When you know what you’re working towards, you’ll know when you’ve reached your goal. • Organise your home to suit your life: set up areas that are used purely for work or for play, advises Ciska Thurman of My Life Organised.
plan of action • When confronted with disorder, it’s best to tackle the mess by being methodical. Work from one side of the room to the
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other, from top to bottom. “First deal with the things you can see, then get stuck into cupboards and drawers,” says Judith Penny of All Sorted. • Have a set of boxes ready, labelled “Give Away”, “Throw Away”, “Put Away” and “Store”. • Touch each item and make an immediate decision: Do you want it? Do you love it? Do you have a better one? What’s the worst that can happen if you don’t keep it? • Get rid of anything you haven’t worn in a year. If you’re struggling to let go of something, “flag” the hanger. If you still haven’t worn the item after six weeks, then be strong and get rid of it, says Isabelle de Grandpre of Neat Freak. • Order your groceries by dividing them into categories and lining them up next to each other: group pastas, cans or cereals, for example. Not only will you know where to find everything, but
you will also see when something is running low.
keeping it tidy • Move all the boxes out. Put the “Give Away” and “Throw Away” boxes into your car to take to the charity shop, dump or recycling centre. Take the “Put Away” box and put items wherever they belong. Take the “Store” box, label it and pack it out of the way. • Foulkes recommends that you set up a maintenance system to ensure the clutter never creeps back: maybe you could commit to doing a quick whip around the lounge before going to bed; or put a container in the room where clutter tends to build up and empty it when it’s full. The idea is to keep doing a little bit as you go along so it’s never an overwhelming task again. • Heidi Meyer of Cloud 9 organised says everything must have a home. “When
plan meals ahead of time “I shop with a week’s meals in mind and write out the week’s menu on a whiteboard in the kitchen when I unpack the groceries, so there’s not too much head-scratching when it’s dinner time. I cook two meals in one night sometimes, and make enough for lunches.” – Louis Greenberg, writer, freelance editor and father of two
magazine durban
ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
before you start
leaving a room, pick up things that don’t belong and put them away. Don’t put things anywhere “just for now” – they will stay there and the clutter will grow. • Keep linen sorted by folding the sheets and one pillowcase into the remaining pillowcase. This makes it easy to recognise the set and everything is together when you need it. • Keep cupboards tidy with clever storage devices. Anything from special dividers to old shoeboxes can be used to divide the space in your cupboards. • Label things, so you know where they belong. • Make repairs as soon as they’re needed. If something is broken and can’t be fixed, get rid of it immediately. • Use clear containers or baskets on top of cupboards for extra storage and get under-the-bed organisers, says Jeanne Viljoen of Beorganised. “There is often wasted space in deep or corner cupboards. Use a Lazy Susan to make these spaces more accessible.” • Suspend a rack from the kitchen ceiling, as an alternative and attractive way of hanging pots and pans. • The inside of cupboard doors can provide plenty of additional storage if
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you attach organisers to store items such as foil, wax paper and cling wrap.
handy tips
get rid of old toys “I declutter by going through my children’s old toys after each birthday or Christmas and weeding out everything that hasn’t been played with for a while. This has to be done secretly and in the dead of night because they will never agree to throw away anything. When I’ve got a nice, big pile of outgrown toys, I donate them all to charity. It’s a lot easier to throw out things when you know they are going to be loved and played with by other children.” – Fiona Snyckers, writer and mother of three
• Nikki Jackson, from i organise, says you can keep your counter tops clear by dropping keys, sunglasses and post into a basket or bowl near your door. • Use a letter spike or mail stand for your post. Read, file or throw away post as soon as it comes in. • Have a mounted black/white/notice board where tasks, to-do lists and information can be written and read by the family. You’ll eliminate small pieces of paper and have a visual reminder of what needs to be done. • Store remotes, cords, video cameras, cellphones and camera chargers in their own drawers or funky storage boxes and label them accordingly. • Buy in bulk. You’ll be amazed at how much time and effort you’ll save. • Use technology to organise your life. Whether it’s your cellphone diary, your laptop or your iPod, learn and use their functions. Use the website toodu.co.za to set up an online to-do list. They will match you up with service providers who can help you get things done.
keep clutter in one place “The best thing I bought is a pigeonhole cupboard. I put everything into it while it waits to go to its real home: children’s toys I pick up off the floor, post I can only get to later, clothes on their way to the cupboard. That way the floor and other surfaces are always clear, the clutter is only in one place and I can tidy it all from there.” – Geci Karuri-Sebina, executive manager of South African Cities network and mother of two
For places that need donations visit childmag.co.za/resources/help
September 2011
17
my story
mom’s away! You envied Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray, Love, but would you be able to leave your
hen I was about seven my father bought my mother a ticket to Bermuda for her 40th birthday – just the one ticket, for her to visit old friends. I was nervous and excited at the same time. Being without her was going to be hideous, yet eating her pre-prepared frozen meals and following her typed schedule made me feel grown up and ever so capable (even if I cried a little). I can still taste that trip – it sits at the back of my throat and when I’m feeling small and alone, at 40-something, I draw on that experience and remember that I rode the wave of her absence well and am now able to weather many of life’s dilemmas a little better because of it. So I go in search of other mothers who have taken some time away. In this age of helicopter parenting, they are not easy to find but when I do, they have a wonderful life lesson for other mothers: sometimes we need a little time with ourselves to be the best parent we know how to be.
sri lanka united states
sri lanka Johannesburg-based single mother Ilene Grace’s son was four when a good friend invited her on a 10-day holiday to Sri Lanka. Fortunately, Daniel was accustomed to being away from Ilene as he spent playschool holidays with her parents on their farm near Kimberley. Although he did not understand that Sri Lanka was much further away, their separation was nothing new for him. But for Ilene, who had been so deeply immersed in single parenting, the contrasts between the trip and her usual routine were stark. “You get to drive in a car without listening to Ed Jordan’s ‘Beautiful Creatures’, you stay up at night sitting at a cafè on the side of the road watching life go by. You read your own book on the plane as opposed to Adventures for Boys and you come back home, loving your child more than ever and knowing yourself again a little more than you did before you left.” During her time away, Ilene called home only twice. “I thought about Daniel every single day, but not in a pining and heartbroken kind of way. I missed him deeply and at times even wished that he was there with me to share in the experiences, but I was also ecstatic about not having
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to worry about routine and food and how he would have coped with the gruelling hours spent in planes and taxis.” Ilene has a strong opinion about taking time out. “Your children will grow up one day and you will still have to be you. You cannot let your entire world revolve around them alone. You need time to remember yourself, feed your own needs. Once you teach yourself to let go a little, it is actually a really good feeling and better parenting is a by-product.” While reflecting on her adventure, which for any parent would undoubtedly also be an experiment at being apart from the family, Ilene has this to say: “Even though Daniel was always on my mind, there were times when I was so astounded by the beauty of the ancient ruins, the Buddhist temples and the statues that I lost myself completely. Those were the best days.”
india Ashlea Perrone, a Cape Town mother of two, restaurateur and part-time photographer, knows how busy life can be.
She is devoted to her children and leaves her half-day job to shuttle, shop, cook and nurture them (a job that is often done solo as her husband runs the restaurant in the evenings). But Ashlea has consciously put the brakes on the speed at which life passes by. “Our children are only young for a very short period of time and as mothers, we also have to live our lives for ourselves, and not forget about who we are and what we really want out of our own lives.” Ashlea’s trip, a brief two weeks in India with a treasured girlfriend, was her first in over 10 years. “When I first received the invitation my reaction was ‘No way, sorry, absolutely not possible. My children, aged eight and six, are incredibly demanding and they need me’ – or so I thought.” But with her husband’s blessing, a five-page schedule of extramurals, parties and appointments set up for the family and the added bonus of visiting Italian grandparents who could help, she left for India. Ashlea’s initial feelings of guilt were intense and the physical act of driving to the airport was one of the most
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PHOTOGRAPHS: ilene grace / ashlea perrone / shutterstock.com
w
family to take a solo trip? DONNA COBBAN hears from three mothers who did.
india difficult things she had ever done. “I kept wondering if I was actually going to be able to go through with it,” she recalls. But thankfully she did. With each passing day in sunny Goa, with its warm ocean and relaxing beach massages, Ashlea felt a change; an unfurling of the self. “I had, for the past eight years, closed myself off from myself, and focused on bringing up my children in the best way I thought possible. But I wondered if this had been to my detriment and to theirs?” Ashlea chose not to contact them too often. “I felt that it would make our distance apart worse for them, and definitely for me. Somehow, I couldn’t help feeling far removed from reality back home.” But coming home was “nothing short of amazing”, she says. “Every second felt like a lifetime until I finally got to hug and hold my beautiful children and was able to finally say, ‘I’m home!’.” Within a few hours, life was back to its predictable routine, yet Ashlea felt different for two reasons. “I had that ‘had a great holiday’ feeling, which is still with
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me, and I had the experience of seeing my children and appreciating them all the more after some time apart.”
united states Belinda Overend like Ilene, was also a single mother, but like any parent, married or not, she was delighted at the offer of some time away. Belinda, also from Johannesburg, had recently ended a demoralising and isolating relationship, she had co-leased an apartment with her best friend’s brother and was working at increasing her earning power. “I worked harder and longer hours than my team mates, and juggled debt like a professional circus act; terrified that I would lose the only income that was keeping a roof over our heads. My children were starting to notice that they were different and didn’t have the everyday luxuries that other children had in ‘regular’ households – this left me desperately sad and feeling totally inadequate.” Belinda’s sister, who lives in Santa Barbara in the United States, offered to fly her over for a break, but
her company refused to give her leave. Belinda was devastated. “Perhaps I was at the end of the barrel at the time, but I knew deep down that it was time to trust myself and put my needs first. So I resigned without a clue about what I was going to do. I decided that I was going to go overseas for three weeks and I’d just have to figure it out – I let go of the fear.” This was going to be the first time Belinda was away from her children for longer than a day and she was understandably nervous. “I definitely suffered much more separation anxiety than they did.” Fortunately the children’s father had recently moved back to Johannesburg from Durban and he agreed to have them – it all seemed to fall into place. Armed with a bunch of photos of the children, Belinda set off for a three-week holiday that included a visit to Santa Barbara, camping in San Felipe in Mexico and a week in San Diego. “The first week I felt awful. I had a pretty tight, co-dependent relationship with my children and being young when I had them, I didn’t really have the freedom to do much more than be a mom – a job I took, and still take, quite seriously. So I wasn’t entirely sure what to do with myself. I pined for them daily but my sister kept me occupied. We went out to restaurants, met up for lunch when she had to work, had dinners with her friends, did girlie things, watched movies, went to the beach with the dogs and just generally mooched about enjoying the familiarity of family. By being able to not do anything of mind-blowing importance, with no financial implications or responsibilities, I was truly spoilt rotten.” Belinda went on to scuba dive, horse ride, play fireside scrabble and drink Margaritas. She recalls a wonderful night when, while sitting under the light of a full moon overlooking the Sea of Cortez, she “fell in love with life again”. Realising that she was only 30 and perhaps didn’t need to take life so seriously, she also acknowledged that she was still desirable. She conceded that adult company and conversation were engaging and long overdue. “I had to build more of that into my life. I came home a different person – renewed, invigorated and determined to give my children the best of what life has to offer.”
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resource
fun philanthropy Get fit while you get involved. TAMLYN VINCENT suggests charitable sports events that should be on your fitness calendar, and some that you can do this month.
Kloof and Highway SPCA annual dog walk
conservation walk Monthly guided walks through the Springside Nature Conservancy where children, cyclists and the family dog (on a lead) can enjoy nature. The walks are organised by the Keep Hillcrest Beautiful Association and the Springside Hillcrest Conservancy to maintain the clearing of the railway tracks. The walk starts at the Stationmaster’s Arms in Hillcrest at 11am and costs R10 per person. The Keep Hillcrest Beautiful Association benefits from proceeds. Date first Sunday of each month Contact George 073 901 3902 or visit kbha.org.za
quads 4 quads ride
amashova durban classic
Get on your bike and raise some dirt for the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA). This off-road motorcycle trek, from Johannesburg to Durban and back, covers 1 000km each way. Off-road bikes, quad bikes, go-karts and side-by-sides are welcome. Date 29 September 2011 Contact Annette 011 979 1363, 083 314 2203 or foleyg@mweb.co.za
Cycling for the needy is the main focus of this event, with participants riding for charities and to help those in need along the way. The Bobs for Good Foundation hands out shoes to disadvantaged children on route, while other groups help with organising the race. The 106km route starts in Pietermaritzburg, while the 38km fun ride begins in Hillcrest. Both finish at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Many charities, disadvantaged schools and other projects receive help from this event. Wear pink and cycle for the Pink Drive to raise awareness of breast cancer. Date 16 October 2011 Contact Annie, Melissa or Brenda 031 312 8896 or visit amashova.co.za
the sunflower fund run/walk Run or walk 5km to help those who have been diagnosed with life-threatening blood disorders. The event is for all ages and fitness levels. It starts at 9am at the Suncoast Casino and there are prizes up for grabs. Entry includes a Sunflower Fund bandana. Date held annually in September Contact 031 581 5326 or visit sunflowerfund.org.za
The Star Academy is a centre for children with challenging behaviour. Parents are invited to bring their children to climb The Rock indoor climbing wall at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Admission to The Rock is R40. Date held annually in October Contact 074 379 7649, greenburg.sacha @gmail.com or visit thestaracademy.co.za
aquelle midmar mile 8 mile club The 8 Mile Club raises funds for charities by swimming a total of eight miles at what is usually a one-mile event. Stan Kozlowski and Mervyn Bremner, who together have completed over 150 miles for charity, head the club. The entry fee is R1 500, and swimmers must raise a minimum of R10 000 for a charity or charities of their choice. Date held annually in February, but members of the club can start raising funds from late August or early September Contact Kate 033 341 0790 or kate@midmarmile.co.za
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the habit 320 cyclathon nosa great train race Nosa, Lion’s Club International and Umgeni Steam Railway host this relay event where teams of six runners race a steam train along part of the scenic and challenging Comrades route. The race travels from Inchanga to the Station Masters Arms in Hillcrest and those who don’t want to run can buy a return ticket for the train, but watch out for armed robbers! Proceeds go to Lion’s supported charities, including Embocraft Training Trust and the SPCA. Date 25 September 2011 Contact Tricia 031 767 0069, 073 572 1688, tricia@umgenisteamrailway.co.za or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za
An extreme cycling challenge where riders travel 320km in one day. It is not a race but a ride for charity, where cyclists ride as a group and give of their time, money and effort to help the HIV Abandoned Babies and Infants Trust (Habit). Entrants should be trained cyclists and they are encouraged to find sponsors. Date held annually in December Contact mlewis@rsssa.co.za or visit charitycycle.org or habit.org.za magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPHs: Warren Goldswain / Shutterstock.com
climb to reach the stars
magazine durban
September 2011
21
resource
Comrades Marathon
comrades marathon This 89km ultramarathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg is not only a test of endurance, it also fosters camaraderie. Many charities get involved in this race, but the Comrades officially supports five: Starfish Greathearts Foundation, Pink Drive, Wildlands Conservation Trust, Sports Trust and the Community Chest of Durban and Pietermaritzburg. You can also get fit to help animals by joining the Kloof and Highway SPCA’s team. Date 3 June 2012, but entries to be submitted from 1 September 2011 to 30 November 2011 Contact 033 897 8650, info@comrades. com or visit comrades.com; to join the Kloof and Highway SPCA Comrades team, contact 031 764 1212/3 or marketing@kloofspca.co.za
kloof and highway spca annual dog walk This annual dog walk celebrates International Animal Week. Volunteer dog walkers at the SPCA head up teams. Families and their dogs are welcome to take part to raise funds for the SPCA. Date held annually in July Contact Janine 031 764 1212/3, marketing@kloofspca.co.za or visit kloofspca.co.za
cansa relay for life Schools, youth groups, families, cancer
survivors
and
those
touched by cancer can unite in the fight against this disease. Teams of 12 to 15 members bring sleeping bags and tents and take turns walking around a track. The goal is to keep one person on the track at all times throughout the night. The relay is held overnight in remembrance of loved ones, while luminaria candles line the track and light the way forward. Date held annually in August Contact Linda 072 162 2806, lcipollo@cansa.org.za or visit cansa.org.za
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kloof round table amazing race Based on the TV show, this event takes teams of up to four people through a series of activities at different locations around the Highway area. The race starts and finishes at the Kloof Civic Centre Hall, and funds raised go to the Reach for a Dream Foundation. Date held annually in August Contact Matthew 082 331 4007, kloof190@gmail.com or visit kloof190.co.za
sani walk for choc-kzn Families and friends can walk up Sani Pass to raise funds for children with cancer. There are also 4x4s to assist in going up and down Sani Pass. Don’t forget to take a warm jacket. Date held annually in August Contact Joy or Glenn 031 764 4827, 083 648 4827 or sharks15@iafrica.com
varsity college beach walk Spend the day walking along the Durban North coastline with family and friends. The 10km walk starts at Shipwreck Beach, the 5km route starts at Virginia Beach, and both end in the heart of the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve. Snack stops are set up along the way to keep entrants refreshed, and there are prizes up for grabs. Proceeds go to the North Durban Honorary Officers and the Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve. Date held annually in August Contact Lauren 031 573 2038, lwilliams@varsitycollege.co.za or visit varsitycollege.co.za
miles 4 marrow This campaign for the Sunflower Fund encourages people to cover miles by swimming, running, cycling or paddling, and to get sponsorship for each mile. The funds go towards meeting the costs of tissue-typing blood for bone marrow donors. The most successful event in this campaign is the Comrades Marathon, but anyone can cover any distance in any sporting discipline. Date depends on the event in which you are participating Contact tenley@sunflowerfund.org.za or visit sunflowerfund.org.za magazine durban
the cows “Love Living Life!” is their motto and they are all about having fun while making a difference. They raise funds for charities by participating in different events around the country, dressed in cow suits. There are now over 280 cows in the herd, and you can join their team. They are cycling in the Amashova Durban Classic and running in the Comrades Marathon for the Childhood Cancer Foundation (Choc). Contact daisy@thecows.co.za or visit the-cows.co.za
The cows
tee off for a good cause
Varsity College Golf Day for Choc
varsity college golf day for choc Players raise funds for children living life-threatening blood disorders. Date 23 September 2011 Contact Lauren 031 573 2038, lwilliams@varsitycollege.co.za or visit varsitycollege.co.za
focus on ithemba This fundraiser helps to provide care for orphaned children and a school for disadvantaged children in the local community. There are prizes up for grabs. Various charitable projects of Focus on iThemba benefit from proceeds. Date 6 October 2011 Contact 031 766 8300 or visit focusonithemba.org
reach for a dream The ladies get to fine-tune their golf swing, while helping make the dreams of children with life-threatening diseases come true. Date held annually in October Contact 031 266 2220 or visit reachforadream.org.za
pathways
kloof and highway spca Swing into action for the animals at the Kloof Country Club. Date held annually in July Contact Janine 031 764 1212/3 or visit kloofspca.co.za
kzn society for the blind A fun golf day with lots of competitions and a trophy up for grabs. Date held annually in July Contact 031 202 7277 or fundraising@kznblind.org.za
the highway hospice This day raises funds for people living with advanced terminal illnesses. Date held annually in July Contact 031 208 6110, highhosp@ dbn.stormnet.co.za or visit hospice.co.za
varsity college westville Take part in this annual golf day in support of Choc, the children’s cancer foundation. You can enter to play, or offer a sponsorship or donation. Date held annually in July Contact Leigh 031 266 8400, lbalfour@varsitycollege.co.za or visit varsitycollege.co.za
A golf day in aid of this centre for children with severe disabilities, held at the Royal Durban Golf Course. Date held annually in March Contact 031 266 5028 or visit pathways-kloof.co.za
durban and coast SPCA A fundraising golf day at the Royal Durban Golf Course. All money raised goes to the Durban and Coast Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). Date held annually in May Contact caroline@spcadbn.org.za
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Kloof and Highway SPCA
September 2011
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books
a good read for toddlers
for preschoolers
for early graders
Cockadoodle Moo Compiled by John Foster
How Many Sleeps? By Amber Stewart and Layn Marlow (Oxford University Press, R65) Toast is a very excited little fieldmouse, because in just a few sleeps it will be his birthday. Every day Toast asks his mom, “How many sleeps till my birthday?” Mom initially says it’s too many to count and then one day, she finally says it’s enough sleeps for them to start thinking of invitations. But Toast is not the only one asking how many sleeps are left. His dad is busy making him a special present and he’s scared it won’t be finished on time. Any small child who has experienced the anticipation of a birthday will cherish this beautifully illustrated book.
(Oxford University Press, R97) This is a beautifully illustrated collection of rhymes and poems for the very young. With farmyard animals, fairies, frogs, fancy dress and everything in between – there’s a poem for every occasion. This lively collection has contributions from Shirley Hughes, Jez Alborough, Richard Edwards and Tony Mitton. Among the more than 80 poems and rhymes included are Bath Time, I wish I was a Centipede and Snow in the Lamplight.
rhyme time
(Random House Struik, R80) Mister King the penguin lives on a rocky island near the South Pole. One day a boat appears and Mister King watches as some fishermen row to the shore. The fishermen have never seen such a strange bird, so they catch the frightened penguin and take him back to their boat and sail off. If Mister King ever wants to see his home again, he will have to be very brave and find his own way back. This is a tale of courage and compassion. At its heart, the book considers issues of conservation, nature’s wisdom and our responsibility towards our fellow creatures.
(Faber Kids, R100 each) Little girls will not only love the stories, they will also enjoy dressing the cutout Alana dress-up doll in the outfit that comes with each book. Alana faces a dancing challenge in each book, and turns to Madame Coco’s Costume Emporium for suitable attire. But this is no ordinary emporium. As Alana tries on a gorgeous, themed outfit, she is whisked away to the actual place – to Brazil to dance in an amazing carnival; to the ballrooms of 19th century Vienna where her prince needs her help and to a Bollywood film set in India. The author of the books is a judge on TV’s Strictly Come Dancing and So You Think You Can Dance?
Winnie in Space By Valerie Thomas and Korky Paul
Winnie-the-Pooh Chalkboard Activity Book
Nicholas By Rene Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé
(Oxford University Press, R118) Winnie is fascinated by space and she decides that the time is right for a little exploration. Wilbur, on the other hand, is not so sure. Winnie’s magical rocket is quite tricky to steer through the universe and poor Wilbur can’t even bear to look. He feels a little less anxious when they land on a faraway planet and Winnie unpacks their picnic. That is, until the weird inhabitants eat their space ship… But however exciting flying saucers, shooting stars and space rabbits may be, Winnie knows that there is no place like home.
(Egmont Books, R83) This handy board book has all the popular Winnie-the-Pooh characters in the familiar Pooh illustrations, but it comes with four coloured chalks and loads of fun activities. Your child can draw pictures, colour in characters, solve puzzles and play games. Inexperienced little fingers will have loads of fun tracing Pooh’s name, creating a forest with their chalks, joining the dots, making their way through a maze or playing a dice game, all with the presence of Pooh characters on each page.
(Phaidon Press, R110) This is a hilarious book to read out loud to your early grader. The Nicholas books have been bestsellers in France and are fast becoming very popular in the Englishspeaking world. Whether they are at home or at school, Nicholas and his friends are caught up in hilarious escapades that always result in confusion – at least for their parents and teachers. Rene Goscinny, the author of the Asterix series, brings Nicholas’s adventures and exploits to life. And just like with the Gaul, your child will laugh out loud – with you.
Mister King’s Incredible Journey By David du Plessis
Bug and Bear By Ann Bonwill and Layn Marlow (Oxford University Press, R137) This enduring story about true friendship is perfect for bedtime. Bug wants to play with Bear, but Bear wants to nap. He tries everything, including pretending to be a chameleon and a tortoise, to outwit the annoying Bug. Nothing seems to work until his bad temper takes over and he tells Bug to “buzz off”, which Bug does. But then poor Bear can’t sleep. He feels very bad for being rude to his best friend. The only way to solve it would be to apologise, but Bug is missing. The story has a lovely ending and the illustrations have a muted, cuddly feeling, making the characters very likeable.
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Alana Dancing Star series: Samba Spectacular, Viennese Waltz and Bollywood Dreams By Arlene Phillips
magazine durban
for us
for preteens and teens The Wombles Go round the World and The Wombles to the Rescue By Elisabeth Beresford
Springbok Kitchen Compiled by Duane Heath
(Bloomsbury, R95 each) The Wombles series has been around since 1968, but young readers never tire of these pointy-nosed, furry creatures. The series has been re-released with a brand-new, more modern jacket. In The Wombles Go round the World, Tobermory invents two clever clockwork air balloons and the four young Wombles are sent on an adventure around the world. In the second book, the humans are cutting down the trees, brambles and flowers on the Common, and the Womble’s food supplies are running low. They will have to use all their ingenuity to solve this one.
Time Riders: The Doomsday Code By Alex Scarrow
Muddle Earth By Paul Stewart and Chris Riddell
(Penguin Books, R120) This is the third book in this very popular series so loved by boys between the ages of 10 and 16. Liam O’Connor, Maddy Carter and Sal Vikram work for an agency that no one knows exists. Its purpose is to prevent time travel from destroying history. In this edition, it’s 1994 and British computer hacker Adam Lewis finds his name in a coded manuscript that is almost 1 000 years old. Confronted by Adam, the TimeRiders travel back to Sherwood Forest in 1194 to discover the origins of the ancient message. But when a hooded man appears to be interested in the same thing, they begin to wonder what terrible threat this cryptic link from the past holds for the future.
(Macmillan Children’s Books, R85) Children between the ages of nine and 12 will not be able to put down this laugh-on-every-page read. Where would you find a perfumed bog filled with pink stinky hogs and exploding gas frogs, a wizard with only one spell, an ogre who cries a lot and a very sarcastic budgie? Welcome to Muddle Earth… Joe Jefferson was just an ordinary schoolboy, but something strange happened and now he is Joe the Barbarian, summoned to wrestle dragons and be very brave. Joe doesn’t feel much like a warrior hero (he doesn’t look much like one either), but evil is stirring and someone has to save Muddle Earth.
Viva, Mr Mandela By Jomarié Dick (Human & Rousseau, R157) This book pays tribute to Nelson Mandela in five parts: his childhood in the Eastern Cape, his political awakening in Johannesburg, his imprisonment on Robben Island, his years as president and his subsequent status as a world icon. Inside, there is a blog-format diary of children visiting Robben Island. “Did you know?” boxes cover interesting snippets and the photographs and illustrations show highlights from his political career and personal life. The author has included information about comrades, politicians, sporting heroes, movie stars, musicians and ordinary people who have been touched by Madiba, as well as quotes relating to important events in his life.
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(Struik Lifestyle, R180) It’s Rugby World Cup month and what better way to celebrate than to cook with inspiration from current and former Springboks. To warm up, try Schalk Burger’s Banana Loaf. For a braai, splash out with Robbie Fleck’s Crayfish and Salmon Steaks or Jan “Boland” Coetzee’s Springbok Loins. In the kitchen, you can cook up John Smit’s Thai Chicken Curry and end it off with Bismarck du Plessis’ Custard Cake. This book celebrates the love of food, family and rugby and all proceeds go towards the Chris Burger/ Petro Jackson Players’ Fund.
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Tiny Sunbirds Far Away By Christie Watson (Quercus, R188) Christie Watson has received rave reviews for her debut novel about a Nigerian family uprooted from their comfortable home in Lagos and their subsequent move to Warri, a village in the Niger Delta. Central to the story is 12-year-old Blessing, through whose eyes we experience an Africa few have seen. She must cope with a mom who has a dodgy job, a grandfather who is adamant that he wants to adopt the Muslim faith, an older brother who is mixing with the wrong crowd and her grandmother, who teaches Blessing about being a midwife. Through her experiences, we also learn about the Nigerian people and their battle with war, poverty, genital mutilation and ethnic strife.
The Protein Crunch By Jason Drew and David Lorimer (Print Matters Planet, R134) Resource depletion and environmental destruction are pushing food prices ever higher – can science come to the rescue or will we be forced to revert to our traditional approach and fight over our remaining resources? We have wasted billions regulating the financial markets that gave us the credit crunch, yet we spend practically nothing on planning for and maintaining the Earth on which we all depend. The rich have already consumed the water of the thirsty, eaten the food of the hungry and burnt the fuel of the cold. The poor will suffer most – do they really deserve the protein crunch? Do we have time to repair the future? Read this book and find out.
Your Sensory Baby By Megan Faure (Penguin South Africa, R187) Worried about why your baby
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is crying or not getting enough sleep? This book shows you that the answers to these problems lie in understanding how to read your baby’s body language and signals. You can use this knowledge to develop a flexible routine around your baby’s needs, creating a gentle schedule that will guide your child into peaceful, easy sleep and calm periods of wakefulness. This will ensure that you don’t struggle to get your baby to sleep when she is alert and wanting to play. Understand your baby’s senses to avoid over-stimulation, a leading cause of colic, and get the answers to many other parenting questions from bestselling author, mother and occupational therapist, Megan Faure.
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what’s on in september
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. FUN FOR CHILDREN – p30
ONLY FOR PARENTS – p31
The Fantastical Flea Circus New tricks from the smallest circus in town.
SUNfit Get into shape with fun, functional and free fitness classes.
bump, baby & tot in tow– p32
how to help – p32
Johnson’s Baby Sense Seminar Get valuable advice from the experts.
PinkDrive Beads These are sold in support of breast cancer.
SPECIAL EVENTS – p28 Heritage Day Celebrate your cultural heritage with The Heritage Market on 24 September, or with a horse ride and braai on 27 September.
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SPECIAL EVENTS 1 thursday Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience Inspirational dance theatre, with works from Brazil, France and South Africa. 31 August–11 September. Time: varies. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Glenwood. Cost: adults R65, scholars R40. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Pay it Forward launch Childhood Cancer Foundation (Choc) launches a six-week fundraiser where ambassadors host tea parties to create awareness and raise funds. Anyone can become an ambassador. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue: Choc Lodge, Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Cost: free. Contact: 031 240 2917 or dbn@choc.org.za ADHD Awareness Day is 14 September. Adhasa invites all school children to enter a poetry competition. Poems must focus on the positives of ADHD and winning entries will be published in their book Proud to be ADHD. Closing date 10 September. Cost: R20 entrance fee. Contact: 011 888 7655, info@adhasa.co.za or visit adhasa.co.za
2 friday A Touch of Irish Dave Monks presents a show of mirth, merriment and singalong Irish music. Ends 4 September. Time: 8pm; also 3pm on Sunday. Venue: Stirling
2 Casual Day
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This fundraising event invites you to wear anything for the day as long as you wear the official Casual Day sticker. Proceeds benefit organisations rendering services to persons with disabilities. The 2011 campaign is themed around rock stars. Cost of a Casual Day sticker: R10. For more info: visit casualday.co.za
1 August –11 September – Jomba! 3 Contemporary Dance Experience
Theatre, The Italian Club, Durban North. Cost: R80. Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@stirlingtheatre.co.za Clifton Founders’ weekend Old Boys events on Friday and fun activities on Saturday. Ends 3 September. Time: varies. Venue: Clifton School, 102 Lambert Rd, Windermere. Cost: free entry. Contact Barry: 082 808 6880, bmezher@cliftonschool.co.za or visit cliftonschool.co.za
3 saturday Animal Anti-Cruelty League line dance marathon Experienced dancers and newcomers take to the floor with line dancing to help animals. Latin, salsa, ballroom and other styles are also covered. Time: 8am. Venue: Arena 3, uShaka Marine World. Cost: R80, plus a bag of cat or dog food. Contact Judy: 031 564 9940 or Merle: 031 328 8000 Bot Soc Indigenous Plant Fair Find a variety of indigenous plants for sale. Ends 4 September. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Munies Hockey Field entrance, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: R5 entry. Contact: 031 201 5111 Peter Pan Pre-Primary potjiekos feast and flea market Time: 12pm. Venue: 3A Cobbleset Lane, Pinetown. Cost: R40 per plate, R15 for a children’s hotdog and juice. Contact Shereen: 031 701 5512 or peterpanprincipal@telkomsa.net The Browns’ School fête A fun morning with food, games and entertainment. No alcohol permitted. Time: 8:30am–2pm. Venue: 28 Mariannridge Dr, Caversham Glen, Pinetown. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 700 6065 or idc@brownsschool.co.za
4 sunday Search for the Stars Talent search auditions for amateur or professional
4 September – Search for the Stars
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individuals or groups to show off their talent for singing, dancing or something extraordinary. Selected performers get the chance to perform at the theme park over the festive season. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Arena 1, uShaka Marine World. Cost: free. Contact: 031 328 8008/8103
6 tuesday Unplugged A select group of musos bring you a compilation of unplugged tracks. Ends 25 September. Time: 7pm, Tuesday– Saturday; 12:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190, Tuesday and Sunday R165. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za
Pietermaritzburg. Cost: varies. Contact: 033 383 0126/7, theatre@hiltoncollege. com or visit hiltonfestival.co.za
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Glenwood Festival A variety of music and sports events that celebrate the suburb of Glenwood. A treasure hunt, preschool’s fun morning, a soccer match and a community day of prayer all feature on the programme. Ends 11 September. Time: varies. Venue: Glenwood. Cost: varies. Contact: 074 415 6729 or visit glenwoodforum.org.za
International Coastal Cleanup Day Pollution causes climate change and damages our marine environments. The 2011 beach clean-up takes place along the KZN coast. Contact James: 082 559 2845
10 saturday Highway Hospice masquerade charity ball A black tie and a masked ball, with dinner, dancing and entertainment. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Coastlands on the Ridge Hotel, Overport. Cost: R500. Contact Lynn: 031 208 6110, lynn@hospice.co.za or visit hospice.co.za Johnson’s Baby Sense Seminar Baby care experts offer advice on a variety of topics such as birth options, feeding and development. Time: morning session 8am–12:30pm, afternoon session 1pm–5:30pm. Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban North. Cost: one session R240, both sessions R400. Contact: 021 461 4669, britt@go4word.co.za or visit babysense.co.za
16–18 September – Witness Hilton Arts Festival
18 sunday Old Mutual Music at the Lake Enjoy it with The Durban City Orchestra. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R80, children R20. Contact: 031 309 1170 or visit ticketbreak.co.za
24 saturday Girls’ day out A day of shopping, fashion and fun. Time: 9am–10pm. Venue: Munies Hockey Club, Berea. Cost: R10 entry. Contact: bookings@spectacularevents.co.za or visit spectacularevents.co.za Heritage Day the Heritage way Fun day with cultural crafts, music and dancing. Children 4–9 years can make beaded bracelets and culture cards. Time: 10am–2pm. Venue: Heritage Market Rose Garden, 9 Old Main Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit heritagehillcrest.co.za
11 sunday Crossing Over with John Edward The psychic medium crosses over to deliver messages from the other side. Time: 2pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R746–R842. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com The Sunflower Fund fun run/walk Run or walk five kilometres for charity. Time: registration 7:30am, walk 9am. Venue: Suncoast Casino, Durban beachfront. Cost: R30, includes a Sunflower Fund bandana. Contact Pushie: 031 581 5326
12 monday Stroke week Headway cares for survivors of acquired brain injuries. To create awareness, they are holding talks during the week. Ends 16 September. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: 11 Menston Rd, Westville. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 266 2709, headway@dbn.stormnet.co.za or visit headway.org.za
16 friday Witness Hilton Arts Festival This art and crafts festival presents an extensive line-up of theatre and art. Ends 18 September. Time: varies. Venue: Hilton College, magazine durban
Mzansi Magic Market Day
3 sat
An entrepreneurial initiative where children 7–15 years set up market stalls selling their own products. Children can also share their talent as performers. Time: 10am–2pm. Venue: Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: free. Contact: 031 505 1743, 084 505 1743 or m-link@iafrica.com
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calendar Marlborough Park Junior Primary School market day There is a variety of stalls. Time: 8am–12pm. Venue: 1031 Bluff Rd, Bluff. Cost: free entry, stalls R50. Contact Ms Dean: 031 466 4545 or Mrs Moodley: 084 507 3585 Nosa Great Train Race Relay teams race against a steam train for charity. The notso-fit can ride on the train. Time: train ride 12pm, race 2pm. Venue: train departs from Kloof station, race starts in Inchanga. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 767 0069, 073 572 1688, tricia@umgenisteamrailway.co.za or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za Sugarbabe weekend camp Children with diabetes can spend a weekend away. For children 7–12 years. Limited spaces available. Time: Saturday 7:30am–Sunday 3:30pm. Venue: Seula, Zinkwazi. Cost: R150. Contact Eldice: 072 695 3416 or sgrbbfoundation@gmail.com
25 sunday Lyrics on the Lawn Time: 1:30pm. Venue: The Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, children R20. Contact: 031 202 5819
27 tuesday Durban International Blues Festival South African and international blues artists entertain with their unique sounds. Ends 2 October. Time: varies. Venue: Wilson’s Wharf, Durban. Cost: tbc. Contact Tanya:
082 747 9738, tva_pr@global.co.za or visit durbanbluesfestival.co.za Heritage and Braai Day outing Enjoy a beach ride, followed by a family braai on the ranch. Children must be 7 years or older. Time: 2pm–6pm. Venue: directions sent on confirmation of booking. Cost: R375. Contact Terrence: 084 467 0752, horsebackbeachadventures@gmail.com or visit horsebeachrides.co.za Mischievous Divas A musical duel to find out who is (or was) the most mischievous musical diva. Ends 9 October. Time: varies. Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190, Tuesday and Sunday R165. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za
29 thursday Don Quixote A classic ballet that tells the story of young love triumphing over parental matchmaking. Ends 5 October. Time: 7:30pm, Tuesday–Friday; 2:30pm and 7:30pm, Saturday; 2:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R80–R160. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
30 friday Laugh Out Loud Durban Comedy Four of Durban’s best comedians take to the stage. Ends 2 October. Time: 8pm; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R110. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000
30 September–2 October – Laugh Out Loud Durban Comedy
Sunday Tribune Garden and Leisure Show Visitors to the show can see the latest landscaping techniques and innovative designs, with exotic and indigenous plants. Don’t miss the designer mini-garden displays by schools. Ends 2 October. Time: 9am–6pm, Friday–Saturday; 9am–5pm, Sunday. Venue: The Royal Showgrounds, Pietermaritzburg. Cost: adults R45, children R25. Contact: 033 345 6274, info@ gardenshow.co.za or visit gardenshow.co.za The Fantastical Flea Circus Back for the school holidays, the Fleas are performing new tricks to a fresh musical soundtrack. Ends 9 October. Time: 11am. Venue: The Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf. Cost: R40, show with a boat ride R55. Contact: 031 305 6889 or visit strictlytickets.com
FUN FOR CHILDREN
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White Mountain Festival Relax and listen to acoustic music from top artists, or enjoy a range of activities, including abseiling and helicopter flips. Children’s playground and food stalls available. Ends 2 October. Time: varies. Venue: White Mountain Lodge. Cost: R500. Contact: 031 563 0824 or visit whitemountain.co.za
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classes, talks and workshops Drumkidz Drum sessions get children drumming to stories and songs. Eight lessons per term. For children 3–7 years old. Time and venue: 3pm–3:30pm, Wednesday, Kloof Library Hall and 8:30am–9am, Saturday, Glenwood. Cost: eight lessons R295. Contact Robynne: 083 631 6064, robynne@drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za Model Dynamics Teaches confidence, correct posture and how to walk and pose correctly. Time: 10am–11:30am, every Saturday. Venue: St John’s Church hall, 205 Clark Rd, Glenwood. Cost: R250 a month. Contact: 083 356 1317 or dianne@modeldynamics.co.za Tots n Pots Cooking and baking workshops for children 2 years and older. Time: varies. Venue: Berea. Cost: varies. Contact Bahia: 082 493 8072 or visit totsnpots.com
art, culture and science
family outings
artSPACE Exhibits a variety of work including bronze sculptures. Time: 10am–4pm, Monday–Friday; 10am–1pm, Saturday and holidays. Venue: artSPACE, 3 Millar Rd, Stamford Hill. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 312 0793 or visit artspace-durban.com The Green Gallery Out of Africa exhibition features paintings and sculptures. 29 September–4 October. Time: 9am–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–1pm, Saturday. Venue: Flanders Mall, Mount Edgecombe. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 502 2757
Books2You Fair Find popular children’s books at affordable prices. Time: 10am –3:30pm, 5 September; 7:30am–2pm, 6 September. Venue: Highbury Prep School, Hillcrest. Also at other Durban schools during September. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 907 1577, info@books2you.co.za or visit books2you.co.za The Pottery Gallery Paint your own mug or bowl. There is a coffee shop, plenty of pets, a giant tea pot, play area and more. Time: 9am–5pm, daily. Venue: M4, near
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Ballito. Cost: price varies depending on item painted. Contact: 032 946 3232
finding nature and outdoor play Duck ’n Deck animal farmyard Children can interact with farm animals, or go on a pony ride. Time: 9am–4:30pm, Tuesday– Sunday. Venue: 3 Willow Way, Assagay. Cost: R15. Contact: 031 768 1029 or visit duckanddeck.co.za KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Learn about sharks and see a shark dissection. Time: 9am and 2pm, Tuesday–Thursday; 2pm, Sunday. Venue: 1A Herrwood Dr, Umhlanga. Cost: adults R35, children R20. Contact Precious: 031 566 0435, shamase@ shark.co.za or visit shark.co.za Treasure Beach Explore the shoreline with a guide while learning about ecosystems. Time: varies. Venue: 835 Marine Dr, Bluff. Cost: adults R40, children R25. Contact Verlin: 031 467 8507 or tbeachadmin@ wessakzn.org.za
The Litchi Orchard Farmer’s Market Covered market featuring live music and a children’s playground. 3 and 17 September. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Seaforth Ave, Foxhill. Contact: 084 205 6151 or jeremy@ litchiorchard.co.za
on stage and screen Don Quixote A classic ballet. 29 September– 5 October. Time: 7:30pm, Tuesday–Friday; 2:30pm and 7:30pm, Saturday; 2:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R80–R160. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000
playtime and story time
markets Essenwood Market Fresh food, children’s activities and a range of stalls. Time: 9am–2pm, every Saturday. Venue: Essenwood Rd. Contact: 031 208 1264 or visit essenwoodmarket.com Golden Hours Family Market This is a 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 Craft market with treats for the whole family. 3 September. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: DLI Hall, 5 Durban Light Infantry Ave, Greyville. Contact: 079 496 4788 or thejoyteam@gmail.com Kloof Country Market Find eco-friendly, quality products and homemade goods. Restaurant available. 3 September. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: Tina’s Hotel, Beryldene Rd, Kloof. Cost: free entry. Contact Linda: 082 454 3181 or linda@ healinghandskzn.co.za Shongweni Farmer’s and Craft Market Organic and local produce and crafts. Time: 6:30am–10am, every Saturday. Venue: cnr Kassier and Alverstone Rds, Assagay. Contact Christine: 083 777 1674 or info@shongwenimarket.co.za
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on 10 September at 10:30am, on Disney Channel, DStv channel 303 The Fantastical Flea Circus The fleas perform new tricks. 30 September–9 October. Time: 11am. Venue: The Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf. Cost: R40, show with a boat ride R55. Contact: 031 305 6889 or visit strictlytickets.com The Smurfs Movie The Smurfs find themselves chased out of their village, and their magical world, by the evil wizard Gargamel. They land in the middle of Central Park and together they must get back to their village before Gargamel finds them. Opens 30 September in cinemas nationwide. Witness Hilton Arts Festival 16–18 September. Time: varies. Venue: Hilton College, Pietermaritzburg. Cost: varies. Contact: 033 383 0126/7, theatre@ hiltoncollege.com or visit hiltonfestival.co.za
The Food Market For locally produced foods. 24 September. Time: 8am–2pm. Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, Durban North. Contact: 084 505 0113, info@thefoodmarket. co.za or visit thefoodmarket.co.za
Lyrics on the Lawn 25 September. Time: 1:30pm. Venue: The Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, children R20. Contact: 031 202 5819 Old Mutual Music at the Lake The Durban City Orchestra entertains. 18 September. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R80, children R20. Contact: 031 309 1170 or visit ticketbreak.co.za Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure Sharpay Evans and her dog Boi head to New York to find fame and fortune, only to discover that theatre is a dog-eat-dog world. Starring actress and singer Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay. The film premières
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. 11 and 25 September. 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 school mountain bikers can join in this series. Various age categories available. 10 September. Time: 1pm. Venue: Treverton, Mooi River. Cost: R30 entry fee. Contact André: 082 336 7149 or andre@hps.co.za The Wavehouse Try the flowrider, skate park, super tube or rock climbing wall. Time: 10am–4pm, daily. Venue: Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Umhlanga. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 584 9400, info@ wavehouse.co.za or visit wavehouse.co.za
only for parents classes, talks and workshops Bruce’s Boot Camp Lose weight, tone up and get fit. Twelve sessions over four weeks.
10 September – Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure
Starts 26 September. Time: varies. Venues: Durban North, Glenwood, Morningside or Westville. Cost: R650. Contact Simine: 082 556 5540, simine@theperfectfit.co.za or visit theperfectfit.co.za Meryl’s School of Cooking Biscuits, seafood and French cuisine are all on the menu this month. 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 3D cake decorating workshop 3 September. Time: 2pm–6pm. Venue: Sugar Me, Broadway Methodist Church, Durban North. Cost: R450. Contact: 072 837 9198, 072 737 7642 or visit sugarmedurban.blogspot.com SUNfit Exercise classes offering fun, functional fitness. Try out yoga, kickboxing, zumba, boot camp or kettlebells. Time: 5:30pm–6:30pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Suncoast Beach. Cost: free. For more info: visit lisaraleigh.co.za
on stage and screen A Touch of Irish South Africa’s own Irish minstrel, Dave Monks, presents an evening of mirth, merriment and sing-along Irish music. 2–4 September. Time: 8pm; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Stirling Theatre, The Italian Club, Durban North. Cost: R80. On Sunday enjoy an Italian Club lunch before the show at R80. Contact: 076 786 1127 or bookings@stirlingtheatre.co.za
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Protect Ponta Lack of animal sterilisation programmes, overbreeding and animal abuse are serious problems in Mozambique. Dedicated animal lovers travel there once a month to run sterilisation and feeding programmes. They need funding, dog food and more. To help contact Caron: 082 779 9972 or Shannon: 082 464 3223
Crossing Over with John Edward 11 September. Time: 2pm. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R746–R842. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Jomba! Contemporary Dance Experience Cutting edge dance theatre. 31 August–11 September. Time: varies. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZuluNatal, Glenwood. Cost: adults R65, scholars R40. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Laugh Out Loud Durban Comedy 30 September–2 October. Time: 8pm; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R110. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Mischievous Divas Who was the most mischievous diva? 27 September– 9 October. Time: 7pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 12:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190 Tuesday and R165 Sunday. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za Unplugged Listen to original tracks and covers. 6–25 September. Time: 7pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 12:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Heritage Theatre, Hillcrest. Cost: R190, Tuesday and Sunday R165. Contact: 031 765 4197 or visit heritagetheatre.co.za
out and about Lotus Couple’s Retreat Couples can enjoy a weekend away, where they can restore their spirit and relationship. Accommodation and meals included. 30 September–2 October. Time: starts 5pm. Venue: Jex Estate, Mvoti. Cost: tbc. Contact Jeanne: 073 203 5471 or Lizana: 072 583 6167
support groups ADHASA Support Groups Meetings are irregular. Contact: Stuart 031 298 8896 or Robin: 082 499 1344 for details on ADHASA, meeting times and support. Al Anon and Alateen Support groups for those affected by drinking. For more info contact: 031 304 1826 or visit alanon.org.za Cansa Support Durban North Second Tuesday of every month. Venue: Durban North Methodist Church hall. Contact: 031 564 2510 (for Cansa support groups in other areas call 031 205 9525) Childhood cancer parent support group Choc schedules regular support meetings. Contact Gill: 084 831 3683 or visit choc.org.za Child Welfare Durban and District Provides support, development and care for orphaned or abandoned babies, as
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well as counselling for birth parents. For more info contact: 031 312 9313 or childwelfaredurban.org.za Compassionate Friends Support group for family and friends who have lost a loved one. Fourth Sunday of every month. Time: 3pm–5pm. Venue: Absa premises, 20 Hunter St, Durban CBD. Contact: 031 335 0463 or 082 458 3663 Depression and Anxiety South Africa Call the national helpline on 0800 205 121 for referral to the relevant support group. Down Syndrome Association KZN Intuthuko support group meeting for those with Down’s syndrome and their families. Third Saturday of every month. Time: tbc. Venue: Anglican Church Hall, Umbilo Rd. Contact: 031 464 2055 or 076 978 9811 Durban Autism Support Group For mothers of children with ASD. Informal coffee mornings are held four times a year. Contact Di: 083 443 8385 or dimaitland@ tiscali.co.za Famsa Offers family and relationship counselling. Contact: 031 202 8987 or visit 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood Hoping is Coping Support groups for those newly diagnosed with cancer and their families. Contact: 011 646 5628, lgold@icon.co.za or visit cansa.org.za Reach for Recovery breast cancer support group Meets for bring-and-share morning teas. Contact: 03l 205 9525 or 072 248 0008 Sadag For those suffering from depression or drug abuse or those who may be suicidal. For more information or referral to a support group visit sadag.co.za Speak Easy Support group for those who stutter and their families. Contact: 082 786 3718 or visit speakeasy.org.za Sugarbabe Foundation Invites parents of children with diabetes or interested individuals to form support groups. Contact Eldice: 031 266 1280 or sgrbbfoundation@ gmail.com.
bump, baby & Tot in tow
classes, talks and workshops Babes and Toddlers educational seminar Covers a range of useful topics from nutrition to temper tantrums. 3 September. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: Lasting Impressions, 35 Caefron Ave, Westville. Cost: R100, on the day R120. Contact: 031 267 0435 Baby Journey A tool for women who need help with the more traumatic side of motherhood. Time: varies. Venue: Durban North Children’s Medical Centre. Cost:
varies. Contact: 031 563 4249 or visit babyjourney.com Hypnobirthing Regular classes help you prepare mentally, emotionally and physically for a better birth. Time: September and November classes available. Venue: Durban North Children’s Medical Centre. Cost: R1 300 per couple. Contact Patti: 079 220 2639 or visit durbanhypnobirthing.co.za Infant massage workshops Time: 2:30pm–4pm, every Wednesday. 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 Johnson’s Baby Sense Seminar Baby care experts offer advice. 10 September. Time: morning session 8am–12:30pm, afternoon session 1pm–5:30pm. Venue: Riverside Hotel, Durban North. Cost: one session R240, both sessions R400. Contact: 021 461 4669, britt@go4word.co.za or visit babysense.co.za Pregnancy body stretch Exercise classes for moms-to-be. Time: 1pm, Monday and Wednesday. 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 Moms and Tots and Moms and Babes workshops Time: varies. Venues: Amanzimtoti, Umhlanga, Durban North, Highway area and Glenwood. Cost: varies. Contact: info@momsandtots.co.za or visit momsandbabes.co.za or momsandtots.co.za
Moms and Babes workshop
Muslimahs and Tots This programmes build relationships through play; geared specifically towards Muslim parents. Time: varies. Venues: branches in North Beach, Overport and Umhlanga. Cost: varies. Contact: muslimahsandtots.co.za
Toptots Children 8 weeks–4 years can join age-appropriate classes to learn and play. Time: varies. Venues: branches in Durban North, Ballito, Glenwood, Kloof, Hillcrest, Westville and Hilton. Cost: about R810 per term. Contact: 031 266 4910, 082 876 7791, info@toptots.co.za or visit toptots.co.za
support groups La Leche Worldwide breast-feeding support organisation. There are currently no meetings in KwaZulu-Natal, but for breast-feeding support contact Jane: 031 309 1801 or visit llli.org/southafrica Moms and Babes support group Meets monthly for a talk and to give moms the opportunity to meet and socialise with other mothers. 13 September. Time: 9am–10:30am. Venue: Alberlito Hospital, Ballito. Cost: free. Contact: 032 946 6956 or 032 946 1826 Mothers 2 Mothers For new and old moms who are finding motherhood challenging and need comfort and support. Time: 10am–11:30am, every Monday. Venue: Hillcrest Private Hospital, 471 Kassier Rd. Cost: free. Contact Hayley: 078 640 7949 The South African Multiple Birth Association A support group for families with multiples. Contact for counselling: 082 338 2625, kzn@samultiplebirth.co.za or visit samultiplebirth.co.za.
how to help Fundraising recipe book Schools and charities can customise and sell this easyto-follow recipe book to raise funds. A minimum of 50 books must be ordered, with different cover options to choose from. Schools and charities can sell the recipe book for their own amount. Contact: 084 821 6668 PinkDrive Beads These handcrafted pink cancer ribbons are sold in support of PinkDrive, a breast cancer initiative. PinkDrive has mobile mammography and educational units, which help women without medical insurance. Buy your supporter beaded ribbons from select Pick n Pay stores. Schools and corporates can purchase directly. Contact Lisa: 073 953 6771, lisa@smart-art.za.net or visit pinkdrive.co.za
looking ahead Big Top Rock Book now for this extreme Rock ’n Roll Circus, opening at The Barnyard in Gateway on 11 October. Contact: 031 566 3045 or visit barnyardtheatres.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 September for the October issue, and must include all relevant details. No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, visit childmag.co.za
magazine durban
it’s party time For more help planning your child’s party visit
childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties
magazine durban
September 2011
33
last laugh
a rollicking roller-coaster ride SAM WILSON and her sons experience the exhilarating ups and downs of overseas travel.
i
just spent a month in Europe with the family. (Actually, I was saying, “we summered in Europe”, but even close friends started throwing things at me, so I decided to rephrase.) Now, we are not big travellers. Hell, I get homesick going on overnight business trips. But my sister-in-law had a baby early in the year, so we’ve been stowing our journo pennies in a big jar so that we could all go, pat the baby and make a family round trip of it. As this was our sons’ first time overseas, we asked them what they most wanted to see while staying with their Wimbledon-based Uncle Quent, and then their Tante Tina in Hamburg. “The Wombles! Hamburgers!” giggled the boys. “You don’t think we actually managed to save up enough money, do you?” said Andreas, crossly. “Now, be serious. We have to plan our itinerary.”
“Well, I want to go to London to see the Rosetta Stone,” said Benj, surprising us all. “Isn’t that in Egypt?” I said, before getting silenced by what I like to call the Eyeball Roll. “And I hear roller coasters are better overseas,” said Joe. There was something I could work with. “I’m in,” I said to Joe. “Let Dad take Benj to Egypt. You and me, let’s ride some roller coasters.” We went to Wimbledon first. The Wimbledon Common, to be exact, where a fantastic movie-style funfair was cranking out its wares in the middle of the pouring rain. “Come on. Let’s be brave. Let’s go on that spider-like ride over there.” “That one called The Extreme?” Joey asked, doubtfully. “Yep, that one. How bad can it be? I mean, we can see the ride’s plug, for heaven’s sake.” I cajoled, hoicking Joe into the seat next to me.
Ten minutes later, Joey was patting me on the back as I sat shaking under a stand of sopping candyfloss. “That w... was... “ I gibbered, “So. Very. H... h... horrid.” “I didn’t expect it to spin upside down either,” said Joey, sounding shaky but much more composed than his mother. “Especially not while the wet seats themselves were rotating on their own axes. That was unbelievably hard core.” We recovered reasonably well; Joey by discovering the Dodgem cars and me by, well, having a small cry and inhaling two huge packets of greasy chips. (I have always found carbs very calming.) But this experience had a really interesting result. Joey and I have now become immune to roller coasters, of all shapes and sizes. I know this as our lovely German relatives kindly spent the next three weeks showing us literally every roller coaster
up and down the country. (We had put in an early request.) If it looped like a spiral straw, free fell from a great height, spun like a Tasmanian devil, smacked into a pool of jelly or blared Wagner while turning you inside out... we got strapped into it. We just stepped nonchalantly out again, high-fived and rejoined the queue. I have never felt so cool in all my life. So, my sage holiday advice? Go see the Rosetta Stone, Stonehenge, Woodhenge (who knew?), cathedrals, plays, towers, castles and landscapes – but also make sure you take the time to scare the pants off yourself, in a new and quirky way. Who knows what new things you may learn about yourself before you need to repack the laundry? Sam Wilson is the Editor-in-Chief of Women24, Parent24 and Food24. She thinks the British Museum should really give a lot of that stuff back to the countries they took it from.
family marketplace
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September 2011
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: Andreas SpÄth
Joe, Sam and Benj