D U R B A N ’ S
b e s t
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p a r e n t s
banish boring lunch boxes
science experiments
a pain in the back
your child can do at home
is your child’s school bag too heavy?
ABCs
of the new curriculum
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August 2011
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Hunter House P U B L I S H I N G
I love a good book. My dad, however, was more of a newspaper kind of guy.
Publisher Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za
Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Anél Lewis • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Tamlyn Vincent • durban@childmag.co.za Editorial Assistant Lucille Kemp • lucille@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway
Art Designers Nikki-leigh Piper • nikki@childmag.co.za Alys Suter • studio1@childmag.co.za Samantha Summerfield • studio2@childmag.co.za
Advertising Director Lisa Mc Namara • lisa@childmag.co.za
PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani
Client Relations Natasha Whittaker • natashaw@childmag.co.za Lisa Waterloo • capetown@childmag.co.za
So, to compromise, I bought him a copy of Professor Jonathan Jansen’s book, We Need to Talk, for Father’s Day. Hughie (as we fondly refer to my dad) was a big fan of the man, but as a subscriber to the Pretoria News and not The Times, he had to rely on a friend who would carefully cut out every one of his columns and hand deliver them to him. Being in the final stages of lung and brain cancer, it sometimes took my dad half a day to read each perfectly penned piece. The chemo had eroded his sight and the cancer his motor control, but he read them as he lived his life – with stubborn determination and a sense of humour. Each column provided a proverbial ray of light in his final months, because he shared Professor Jansen’s sense of black and white, wrong and right and his distaste for racism or discrimination of any kind. He was open to new ideas, but steadfast in his principles, with a firm belief in honesty, integrity, humility and hard work – qualities he shared with Prof Jansen. Sadly, my dad died last month, and so the book was left to me to read. I thought it fitting to quote from it this month, especially
as Prof Jansen addresses us, parents, about the need to inspire our children to embrace learning. “It is the simple things that parents do between tests and examinations, like the marvel they express when observing a loaded plane lift off the runway, the questions they pose about a scientific discovery, the joy they demonstrate when recalling a favourite poem, and the delight they exude when solving a problem. For parents to inspire children to learn, they need not be highly schooled themselves. All they need is to enjoy learning themselves.” In this high-tech, dynamic and competitive world in which we raise our children, it is certainly the simple things that count. Thanks Hughie, for the simple things you did that lead me to love learning so much. I learnt by example… yours.
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Durban’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: 1st Floor, MB House, 641 Ridge Road, Overport, 4091. Tel: 031 209 2200, fax: 031 207 3429, email: durban@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Durban’s Child magazineTM. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles, and other editorial content, are accurate and balanced, but cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or inconvenience that may arise from reading them.
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August 2011
3
contents
august 2011 regulars 6
wins
7 upfront with paul Paul Kerton reminisces the death of a family pet
16
new research into the causes of ADHD suggests alternative treatment options. By Donna Cobban
upfront
Tamlyn Vincent compiled a list of extraordinary school outings
3
10 dealing with difference
20 resource – beyond the classroom
a note from lisa
25 a good read
6 over to you
readers respond
new books for the whole family
27 what’s on in august
features
34 last laugh
12 back to basics
Sam Wilson suffered from sleep deprivation when her children were small. Now she’s catching up
ichelle Jones explains Action Plan M 2014 and the new school curriculum
classified ads
16 so in love with science
Robyn Goss gives you fun project ideas your children can do at home
33 let’s party 34 family marketplace
18 banish boring lunch boxes
Margaret Barca gives you recipe ideas to replace the boring sarmie
24 room to grow
Christina Castle’s son has immigrated – to his own bedroom
health 8
spot(s) of trouble
Tamlyn Vincent finds out what to do when your baby has thrush
9
a heavy burden
your child’s school bag may cause injury, warns Gillian Hurst
18
this month’s cover images are supplied by:
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August 2011
Johannesburg
Cape Town
Durban
SAHETI School Photographer: Shireen Arbuthnot
shutterstock.com
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August 2011
5
letters
over to you
good old-fashioned family time
support through our calendar
winning ways
I enjoyed the July publisher’s note where Lisa Mc Namara refers to playing games with her children – something so many of us forget to do. My own two children love, more than anything, sitting as a family, playing games. Our favourites are Uno, which we’ve played since my daughter was three, Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders and Hit the Hat. Winter holidays are the perfect time to haul out the puzzles and Lego. Activity sheets and colouring-in pages are downloaded and we also swap games with friends for something different. Playing with your children is so rewarding. It’s often while playing with mine that they tell or show me the most of what is happening in their world. Candice Freeman
Thank you so much for featuring us in your “How to help” section. We have had numerous requests from your readers to come and assist. We have also received many donations; even a brand new tumble drier. Michele van Jaarsveld Ikholwa Children’s Home
Thanks so much for making us winners in the Polly Potter’s Toy Store giveaway. My 4-year-old son, Kyro, is over the moon with the rocket he won. His comment when we collected the prize was: “I can’t believe my eyes. It’s a rocket!” For the first time there was no argument to get him in the back seat and buckle up. The box was on his lap all the way home. You made this little boy’s year. That night he told his mom he needs to go on a course to fly the rocket. Kyro and the Steytler family
The letter on alcohol and minors (July 2011), while written as a personal anecdote, neglects to mention that serving or allowing your child to consume alcohol is against the law. The writer mentions France, where drinking is part of the culture, neglecting to mention that they have one of the highest rates of liver failure because of the huge alcohol consumption. We don’t allow our children to become social smokers and encourage them to have a drag. Why is alcohol different? Gemma Etchells According to a Unisa study for Rape Wise more than 40 percent of people who begin drinking before the age of 13 stand a good chance of becoming dependent. It is illegal to give or supply alcohol to anyone under the age of 18, or to allow them to drink alcohol. To get help, contact Alcoholics Anonymous on 0861 435 722 or Al-Anon (for families of alcoholics) on 0861 252 666.
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wins
giveaways in august educational aid
perfect fit
Kid-ease sources quality Montessori material without the unattainably high price tag, making them accessible to all. Their newest product available is Stackable children’s web beds for schools and crèches. They are hygienic, breathable, compact and comfortable and are selling for only R225. For more information visit kid-ease.co.za Four readers could each win a Kid-ease voucher, valued at R650. Simply email your school’s details to ellie@kid-ease.co.za, and mark your entry as “Durban Childmag Win”.
The Tripp Trapp is an ingenious baby chair designed to fit right into your table and grow with your child. Its intelligent, ergonomic design allows freedom of movement and encourages play and independence, while still being safe and secure. The Tripp Trapp is available at Phrog Designs in Kloof (031 764 5785). For more information, contact Born Fabulous: 073 251 7147, info@ bornfabulous.co.za or visit bornfabulous.co.za You could win a Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair valued at R2 000. Simply email your details to competition@bornfabulous.co.za and mark your entry as “Tripp Trapp”.
well and on their way Cipla Medpro gives you Airmune Junior, the tasty and all-natural immune system supporter for little ones. It contains 17 herbs and nutrients, which will help keep colds at bay. For more information contact: 021 917 5620 or visit ciplamedpro.co.za One reader could win a Nintendo DS Lite valued at R2 000, while two readers could win an Airmune pack. Simply email or post us your personal details and mark your entry as “Cipla DBN Win”.
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 31 August 2011.
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August 2011
congratulations to our June winners Aleesha Suknandan who wins in the Wyndford giveaway and Tracy Prepok who wins in the Fatsak giveaway.
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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
it’s not just “cheers!”
upfront with paul
pet symmetry When the sad time comes to bid the family pet farewell, make sure it gets a fitting sendoff, says PAUL KERTON.
PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN
t
Saskia, Paul and Sabina
here is nothing quite like a small and furry creature with big eyes, endearing habits and an inherent vulnerability to make a child smile, and bring out the same feeling of unconditional love that you have for your child. The challenge here is, once you buy one – whether it’s a puppy, rabbit, kitten, goldfish, finch, parrot or a more exotic creature – you have a responsibility to it, and your children, to try and keep it alive. And if you don’t, there comes that awful parental “gulp” moment, as your offspring’s favourite fish floats like driftwood on top of the water, and you think, “now what do we do?” Like at a recent dinner party, when Sabina screamed and came running into the dining room in tears. “Daddy, Brutus (name changed to save embarrassment)
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has flushed my fish down the toilet.” Brutus, aged three, had clearly overdosed on Finding Nemo and, more appropriately, Flushed Away DVDs, and had literally freed the fish to return to the sea. It was a noble intention, but heartbreaking for my daughter. We have been very unlucky (read “useless”) with pets. One of our rabbits had its leg broken in the great St James’ tornado of 2005 when the hutch was unceremoniously thrown across the lawn and the two rabbits were sandwiched between the lid and the frame. One ran away never to be seen again, and the other one would have followed except that it was crippled. The vet sucked air through his teeth as he estimated that it would take about 10 hours of microsurgery (and a cool R9 500), and seven customised stainless-steel pins in its limbs before the
rabbit would limp, never mind hop, again. It was a highly emotive decision. When we put our pretty finches outside on the veranda to experience some fresh air and morning sunshine, they took it as an open invitation to limbo-dance under the cage wire and take a short flight to freedom. Little realising that they would last about 10 minutes amid that flock of nasty, aggressive gangsta-starlings. The problem with pets is they die, no matter how well cared for and loved. Goldfish are not robust creatures. Their brain is so tiny that they often forget to breathe. And they do not travel well; sometimes they don’t even make it from the pet shop to the house. What to do when disaster strikes? The initial reaction is for one parent to keep Junior busy while the other scurries around
every pet shop in town looking for the same sex, size and colour of animal that has died. This is completely futile of course, especially at 2am, which brings one to the delicate matter of burial rights. There is a tendency to over-emotionalise here but you cannot cheapen your child’s probable “first true love” by dismissing the deceased with a twist of a Woollies’ packet and a practised basketball dunk into the bin. Particularly if it’s something like the family hound, which has been whacked by a hit-and-run truck. In this case, the correct sendoff is a pretty, fancy box, filled with Rover’s accessories – bowl, lead and jacket – and a burial near one of his favourite haunts. And if anyone plays the trumpet, that would be even better. Paul Kerton is the author of Fab Dad: A Man’s Guide to Fathering.
August 2011
7
health
spot(s) of trouble TAMLYN VINCENT finds out why babies get thrush, and how to treat it.
our baby has white spots on the inside of her mouth, or white stuff on her tongue. It may, at first, look like milk residue, but if it doesn’t budge when you try to rub it off, it could be thrush. Sister Desiree du Plessis of Cape Town says thrush in babies is “absolutely harmless”. They get thrush “when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the mouth,” says Durban-based registered nurse and midwife Sister Linda Glasson, and it usually occurs when they are younger than 10 to 12 weeks. Babies, and everyone else for that matter, have small amounts of yeast in their mouths already, but an imbalance of this can cause thrush. Although harmless, in some cases “it can make the mouth a little sore” says Glasson, which may make it difficult for a baby to drink. If thrush is left untreated, it can also pass down into the gastrointestinal tract, says Du Plessis. If this happens, your baby may develop thrush on her bottom.
signs and symptoms Thrush is generally not caused by poor hygiene, says Glasson, and there is also no clear cause for the infection. Taking a course of antibiotics can affect the amount of bacteria in the body, which might cause a yeast imbalance.
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August 2011
Also, bottles or dummies that aren’t properly sterilised may cause bacteria to grow, says Du Plessis. Look out for a few telltale signs if you think your little one has thrush. “The spots look like milk curds on the inside of a baby’s mouth, and they don’t come away when wiped,” says Glasson. If the spots do come away, they may leave a red mark and can even bleed. If your baby has a nappy rash as well, look for satellite blisters, or red spots that stand out from the rest of the rash, which will indicate thrush.
treatment As yeast is a fungus, your doctor or clinic would usually prescribe an anti-fungal gel or cream. An oral gel can be applied to the baby’s mouth, recommends Du Plessis, while an anti-fungal cream can be used for nappy rash. The gel and cream work as a topical treatment, applied straight to the thrush, but “it does take a few days to go away,” warns Glasson. Thrush can also be passed between a mom and baby. You may have a yeast infection on the breasts, which your baby may pick up when breast-feeding. Or, your baby may have thrush, and pass it to you. It is therefore best to treat both the baby and the mother in cases of thrush. You can also use an anti-fungal cream or gel on your breasts.
useful tips • Maintain good hygiene, says Glasson. Make sure bottles, dummies, teats and even toys are cleaned and sterilised properly. • Follow the instructions for sterilising. Don’t leave bottles in a sterilising solution for too long, says Du Plessis, and if you are using the microwave, follow the time guidelines provided. • If you or your baby has been taking antibiotics, replace the good bacteria with either a probiotic or something natural, like yoghurt.
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com
y
health
a heavy burden Weighty school bags are more than just a pain in the neck (or back), they could cause long-term spinal damage, says GILLIAN HURST.
PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
i
t was with some alarm that I recently tried to fling my son’s school bag into the car boot. Nearly floored by the Herculean effort needed just to get the bag off the ground, I was staggered that my 11-year-old had been carrying what feels like the equivalent of a hefty first-grader on his back, without a word of complaint. Take a moment to pick up your child’s bag. You may be surprised at the dead weight of it. A demanding curriculum means your child often lugs numerous books, for each subject, from one classroom to the next. Many children also carry extra bags packed with sports equipment, as well as bulky lunch boxes and drinks. “Bearing such heavy loads can start a degenerative process in the spine, the consequences of which could last
magazine durban
a lifetime,” warns Johannesburg-based chiropractor Marie Rosenberg. “Carrying a backpack or shoulder bag that is too heavy can cause functional scoliosis (an abnormal curvature of the spine), especially if the bag is carried on one shoulder. The uneven distribution of weight can result in poor posture, joint fatigue and pressure on the sacroiliac joint,” she says. “To work out just how much weight is going through your child’s spine each time they pick up their school satchel, multiply the weight of the bag by 10,” advises Rosenberg. For example, a 4kg bag puts 40kg of weight on the spine, far too much for the average child to manage safely. “Unfortunately, the children themselves are often part of the problem,” warns Cape Town-based physiotherapist Melanie Vogel. “Often the best bags, with their padded straps and added supports, are dismissed by children as being ‘uncool’. Peer pressure to have the ‘right’ brand on their back can lead to long-term damage
and parents need to make their children aware of this from a young age.” Biokineticist Amy Lichtenstein says she has treated quite a few cases of school bag injuries at her Johannesburg practice. “Muscles being used more often become shorter, tighter and overdeveloped, while the other side of the body is in a lengthened position, which creates an imbalance,” she says.
safety tips • The type of school bag you choose makes a big difference. Shoulder bags are a definite no-no as children tend to carry them on one shoulder, causing strain, says Lichtenstein. • If your child insists on a backpack, make sure it has wide, padded straps that are worn over both shoulders, and a belly belt for extra support. • The best option is the wheelie bag, but even these are not perfect, as they become unwieldy when fully loaded and
can catch on uneven terrain, causing muscle tears and strain. • The Chiropractic Association of SA advises that the backpack should not weigh more than 10 percent of your child’s weight. • Lockers could be the answer to this weighty problem. Lichtenstein advises parents to lobby for lockers at school. • Rosenberg says you should talk to your child’s teacher about ways the school can help lighten the load children have to carry.
your child’s school bag may be too heavy if he has: • • • • •
headaches; dull, lower backache; neck ache; fatigue and bad posture.
August 2011
9
dealing with difference
diagnosing ADHD New research provides fresh insight into the causes of ADHD, and offers parents alternative and holistic treatment options. By DONNA COBBAN
ance*, father to now 11-year-old Aiden*, was doubtful when his son was first diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) at the age of nine. Three years later, the Johannesburg-based father still finds himself vacillating over the issue. “There are times when I look at my son’s behaviour and think that he definitely has ADHD. But then I stop and think that I behaved like that as a child, so did I have ADHD? Then there are the other times when I watch him and I think to myself, there is no way he has ADHD.” Despite sometimes doubting the diagnosis, Lance has now accepted his son’s condition and he ensures that Aiden gets the correct treatment. The treatment is diverse, and is applied to all aspects of Aiden’s life. As Lance explains, “Treating a child with ADHD is not just about putting him onto medication.” Instead, he encourages other parents to examine the child’s emotional state, as well as the food they are eating and the amount of exercise they are getting. ADHD is one of the most debated disorders, with everyone wanting to offer an opinion if your child appears to be heading towards a positive diagnosis. There are those who will blame your child’s diet or offer a “miracle” cure, while others will say the condition does not exist, suggesting that your child is just disruptive and needs a good hiding.
Diagnosing a child with ADHD is a long process and it’s important to do it right. Teachers are not experts.
appears to be thriving. Lance’s immense concern and love have also gone a long way to improving Aiden’s condition. “Love, security, positive attention and a healthy diet are all essential elements to raising a happy, healthy child,” he says.
causes of ADHD Although no-one knows for sure what causes the disorder, the Adhasa support group reports that “it is neurological – meaning that there is an imbalance of certain neurotransmitters; it is biochemical – meaning a deficiency in Prostaglandin’s E1, E3 (PE1, PE3); and it is an 80 percent genetic condition.” Like any mental condition, there is no blood test or brain scan that can prove beyond a shadow of doubt that someone has ADHD. So we rely largely on research scientists to keep us informed and, together with their findings, new understandings emerge and adjustments in thinking shift as new treatments are found. Some interesting research, conducted recently by Alina Rodriguez from the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London, suggests that stress during pregnancy may be a contributing factor. (Stress, in terms of this particular study, included depression, bereavement or the breakdown of a relationship.) The study involved more than 1 700 children and tracked them from pre-birth to primary school. Neurologists found a link between antenatal stress and what is known as “mixed-handedness” (where the right or left hand is used to perform different tasks) as well as a link to behavioural problems in children, with ADHD being the most common.
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Recently, interesting research, which spanned an entire eight years, suggests that people with ADHD have a compromised “reward pathway” in the brain. Led by the renowned Dr Nora Volkow, a research psychiatrist in the USA, this study explains why attention deficits in people with ADHD are most evident in tasks that are considered boring, repetitive and uninteresting. Volkow’s findings suggest that ADHD sufferers have fewer dopamine receptors and transporters in the mid-brain area – the area responsible for the “reward pathway”. She suggests that an intervention to make tasks more engaging and rewarding would have significant results. Dr Christopher Lucas, associate professor of child psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine, explains that children with ADHD may be able to concentrate for hours on video games, but not at school. Unlike school, which demands sustained attention with no rewards, a video game requires sustained attention with intermittent rewards. Linda*, mother to now 21-year-old Jack* knows about ADHD and rewards better than most. Jack was four when he was first diagnosed with ADHD. Linda, from Cape Town, was a single mother with a limited income and a child whose behaviour was both stressful and worrying. Jack needed little sleep; he was disruptive in class, found reading and writing
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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com
rewards, not drugs Like many parents, Lance was frustrated by the way in which his son was diagnosed. “Initially Aiden was treated by a GP whose experience of ADHD was severely limited.” He was given a prescription for Concerta (a drug similar to Ritalin) and Lance watched as the Aiden he knew slipped away; his personality and appetite taken by the medication. There was also no subsequent improvement of any kind in his concentration or schoolwork. “Diagnosing a child with ADHD is a long process and it’s important to do it right. Teachers are not experts,” says Lance. Aiden was eventually diagnosed by a number of people using the popular Conners’ Rating Scale (an instrument that uses observer ratings and self-report ratings). His school reports, school work, general behaviour and concentration levels were all taken into account before the treatment started. This time he was given Strattera, a drug used to treat ADHD in children over the age of six. Unlike Ritalin, Strattera does not stimulate the central nervous system and is not scheduled as a controlled substance. But, as with Ritalin, there are often negative side effects. Fortunately, in Aiden’s case, the treatment worked well and along with a carefully controlled diet largely free of artificial ingredients and inclusive of omega oils, Aiden now
Love, security, positive attention and a healthy diet are all essential elements to raising a happy, healthy child. difficult and he would enthusiastically begin a project, and then often fail to finish it. On top of this, he was deeply sensitive, making the time-outs and the punishments difficult to endure. Then an insightful psychologist worked with Linda to devise a star chart for Jack. Star charts are controversial things at the best of times – critics warn of a need to motivate from within and not for a reward, while parents, at their wits end, use the chart to restore family peace. So for most families, the star chart has a limited life span, but for Jack and Linda, the star chart was their literal lifeline. “Everything revolved around the star chart – from behaviour to chores, schoolwork to fun-time. He had certain chores he had to complete (this included schoolwork) and three stars out of five earned him a treat of his choice on weekends (such as a video or a sleepover).” Linda also became firm about things like eye contact, listening to one instruction at a time and speaking slowly and effectively. She is a firm believer in the reward system, but says, “You have to stand fast and not budge for it to work. Jack needed to stay within his boundaries and the star chart took care of that.” This was done as a complementary form of treatment, in addition to Ritalin, which Linda believes was a double-edged sword she had to accept. Had her finances allowed it, she would have sent Jack to a more suitable school, with smaller classes and one-on-one attention. This may have eradicated the need for the Ritalin, which sadly Jack had to take, and the endless teasing he was exposed to at a mainstream primary school. Now that Jack is out of school, Linda concedes that he may not have completed his schooling without Ritalin. But Linda says she should have changed Jack’s school and sought out a support group. “Very few people understood. They thought he was just naughty and needed a ‘hiding’.”
support Erica Stander, who heads up the ADHD Hout Bay support group in Cape Town, stresses the importance of such groups as they form a “melting pot of all those interested and affected by ADHD, whether they be parents, teachers or psychologists specialising in the field”. She says, “Each person plays an important role and support groups ensure that the parent and the teacher have the same consistent approach.” Long-term professional help, which is recorded and monitored, is also critical. This will allow you to apply for extra exam time, for example. “Accept that your parenting is going to be different and try not to worry what other people have to say about it,” advises Erica. Linda knows this all too well. She shows me a few pictures of the now grown-up Jack and I see a beautiful young man; a unique individual filled with promise and purpose, about to start his adult life. Although Linda and Jack’s journey has been far from easy, they have much to be proud of in spite of, or perhaps because of, ADHD. *Names have been changed
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what is ADD and what is ADHD? Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD is a hangover from the past and technically speaking no longer exists. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD first appeared in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 1987, where the term officially replaced ADD. Before that, similar symptoms were referred to as “minimal brain dysfunction” and “hyperkinetic impulse disorder”. Science now recognises three subtypes of ADHD: • inattentive • hyperactive-impulsive, and • combined. According to Adhasa, approximately eight to 10 percent of the South African population have ADHD. This seems to follow international trends. In the USA, there are suggestions that just over nine percent of the population between the ages of four and 17 have been diagnosed with the problem. Recent studies in rural areas of Limpopo reveal similar statistics.
further reading • The ADD & ADHD Answer Book by Susan Ashley (Sourcebooks, Inc) • Overcoming ADHD Without Medication (Helping Your Child Become Calm, Engaged, and Focused – Without a Pill) by Stanley I. Greenspan (Da Capo Lifelong Books) • Parenting Children with ADHD (10 Lessons That Medicine Cannot Teach) by Vincent J. Monastra (American Psychological Association) • ADD & ADHD Answer Book: Professional Answers to 275 of the Top Questions Parents Ask by Susan Ashley (Sourcebooks, Inc) • 50 Activities and Games for Kids with ADHD by Judith M. Stern and Patricia O. Quinn (Chicago Review Press) • Putting on the Brakes Activity Book for Kids with ADD or ADHD by Patricia O. Quinn and Judith M. Stern (Magination Press)
August 2011
11
spotlight
back to basics Long-term changes to the education curriculum will bring the three “Rs” – Reading,
s
o much has changed since we were at school. Standards have been replaced by grades, pupils are now called learners and for more than 10 years, our children have been grappling with an outcomesbased education system that focuses more on practical tasks than the three “Rs”. But a government review of the Basic Education curriculum, to be phased in over the next three years, has been welcomed as a much-needed, back-to-basics approach with a renewed focus on literacy and numeracy.
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In July 2010, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced that the department would make a number of changes to the existing national curriculum statements. She did not explicitly mention outcomes-based education (OBE), but many saw the move as a strong signal that it was being dropped. Educators say the revision of the controversial OBE will lessen the heavy administrative burden it placed on teachers, giving them more time to teach. It will also mean fewer assignments for your child, allowing them to focus again on learning. Some of the
department’s changes have already been made and more are set to take place each year until 2014.
death knell for OBE OBE, introduced in 1998, was supposed to encourage teachers to plan teaching programmes that would produce learners with relevant knowledge and skills. But the curriculum is said to have failed partly because the onus for making it work fell to already-overstretched teachers with scarce resources and poor facilities.
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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com
wRiting and aRithmetic – back into your child’s classroom, says MICHELLE JONES.
Children attending under-equipped schools, with no access to libraries and computers, were suddenly expected to complete a number of assignments and projects. Motshekga wants the curriculum changes to produce better results. “There are too many learners who, after many years of school, have not mastered the skills they need to have mastered. Research has shown, for instance, that many learners who complete Grade 6 are not able to write even simple sentences, or do basic arithmetic. This problem of an unacceptably low level of learning can be found across all grades.”
revision for schools The minister has released a comprehensive turnaround plan for schools, Action Plan to 2014, which is part of a larger vision called Schooling 2025. The action plan comprises 27 goals to “make schooling better”. These include increasing the number of Grade 12 learners who qualify to study for a bachelor’s degree, improving the performance of learners of various grades in maths, science and languages and enhancing the professionalism of teachers. “We need to deal quickly and efficiently with curriculum implementation challenges and difficulties that do exist. We have already started the process of identifying problems and have taken the necessary steps to find solutions. We have made and will continue to make changes on an ongoing basis where they can be made with minimal disruption,” says Motshekga. The revised curriculum will make it easier for teachers to do their jobs. “Every subject in each grade will have a single, comprehensive and concise curriculum and assessment policy statement that will provide details
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education A,B,C Action Plan to 2014: A 27-goal plan to improve education. Thirteen of these goals are output-driven, dealing with improved school results and better learner enrolment. The remaining 14 deal with things that must happen for the output goals to be realised. ANA: Annual National Assessment. Tests started this year to assess whether learners in Grade 1 to Grade 6 and Grade 9 are at the correct level. Caps: Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements. These provide an in-depth guide for teachers to plan their time and structure lessons, and detail what work they are expected to cover each term. CTA: Common Tasks for Assessment. Until last year these tasks were compulsory for all Grade 9 learners. The marks formed 25 percent of their year mark. Curriculum: The subject matter to be learnt by learners. Foundation Phase: Grades R to 3. Further Education and Training Phase: Grades 10 to 12. General Education and Training Band: Grades R to 9, made up by Foundation, Intermediate and Senior Phases. Grade R: This reception year before a learner starts Grade 1 is now compulsory for all learners. Intermediate Phase: Grades 4 to 6. Learner: The correct term when describing a school-going child. OBE: Outcomes-based education. Schooling 2025: An initiative to improve the standard of basic education in the next 14 years by elevating the matric pass rate, improving literacy and numeracy results for foundation phase learners and enhancing the quality of teachers. Senior Phase: Grades 7 to 9. Subject: In the various grades and phases of education, different subjects were referred to as learning areas or programmes. From this year, all learning areas and programmes will be known as subjects. Teacher: Sometimes referred to as an educator, teacher is the correct term when referring to a professional who teaches learners in a classroom.
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spotlight
what the experts say
on what teachers ought to teach and assess on a grade-by-grade and subjectby-subject basis,” says Motshekga. This will help teachers plan their lessons and detail what work they are expected to cover each term. The statements also list which textbooks, workbooks and other media should be used.
changes to the curriculum One of the first changes, at the beginning of 2010, was to discontinue the Common Tasks for Assessment for Grade 9 learners. Teachers and principals thought the assessment was unnecessary and added to teachers’ heavy workloads.
Graeme Bloch, an education specialist at the Wits Graduate School of Public and Development Management, has lauded what he refers to as “the death of OBE”. “The important thing is they are simplifying the subject areas. They are focusing on the foundations of literacy and numeracy and they are admitting that OBE didn’t work.” But Bloch says it will be important for some of the creativity of OBE, where learners are encouraged to think outside the box, to be maintained. “I think there is a lot of work to do. But I think the direction is right, (with) the focus on emphasising the foundation and knowing the basics.” Alan Clarke, an education consultant and former principal of Westerford High School in Cape Town, says the downside of OBE is that it is a very complicated curriculum and everybody has a different view on how it could be taught. The revised curriculum will work if it clearly spells out what is expected of both teachers and learners. All three major South African teaching unions have given the revised curriculum, with its learner workbooks and the promise of yearly assessments, the thumbs up. SA Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu) general secretary Mugwena Maluleke says, “We believe (it) will benefit both the learners and teachers and improve the quality of teaching and learning.”
Research has shown, for instance, that many learners who complete Grade 6 are not able to write even simple sentences, or do basic arithmetic. Other changes include fewer projects for learners and the removal of portfolio files for learner assessments. Instead, every learner in Grades 1 to 6 gets literacy and numeracy workbooks. Each book has 128 worksheets, in the child’s mother tongue, and learners are encouraged to take the books home so parents can be involved in their learning. Another key change is the start of annual national assessments. These were due to begin in late 2010, but were postponed to early this year because of a public sector strike. The tests were held in February for Grades 2 to 7, and for Grade 10 learners who were tested on the numeracy and literacy levels they should have achieved the year before. Education department spokesman Granville Whittle says, “The department has set a target of improving numeracy and literacy attainment levels of Grades 3 and 6 from the current average attainment levels of between 27 percent and 38 percent to at least 60 percent by 2014.” The annual assessment will provide regular, well-timed, valid and credible data on pupil achievement in schools.
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The education system should rather concentrate on content-based classroom teaching, with a focus on the basics of reading, writing and mathematics, says Chris Klopper, chief executive of the SuidAfrikaanse Onderwysersunie (SAOU). “Reinforcing these concepts will allow children to function productively and make them more employable.” Bloch says it’s pleasing to see that the Department of Basic Education is committed to making things easier for both educators and learners. Motshekga has announced a 15-year plan to improve teacher education. “Our targets on teacher development include consistently attracting increased numbers of young qualified teachers, filling vacant posts, achieving the appropriate number of hours teachers spend in professional development activities, reducing teacher absenteeism and ensuring full coverage of the curriculum.” The number of teacher graduates produced by universities is to be doubled by 2014 to 12 000 each year to meet the needs of the schooling system. Michelle Jones is the education writer at Cape Times. magazine durban
separating the sexes Western Cape educators are experimenting with separating boys and girls in classrooms. This after research found that there are key differences in the way the sexes learn and cope with their changing bodies and emotions. Gavin Keller, principal of the Sun Valley group of schools in Cape Town, says the idea was first discussed at Western Cape meetings of the SA Principals’ Association, and had caught on with a number of schools since, but it is not something being considered by government to implement permanently. He says research shows that it’s easier to teach just boys or just girls at critical stages in their development. Boys are about nine to 15 months behind in reading ability but the same amount of time ahead in maths, science and sports. Because of this, boys in primary school often feel that reading is for girls and choose to focus instead on the areas they are more comfortable with. Keller says in these early years girls are more skilled at reading, leaving boys in the same class feeling uninterested. But when the sexes are separated, boys are able to learn to read at their own pace, and enjoy doing so. Another difference between the sexes is girls’ ability to quickly verbalise their emotions while boys are generally only able to recognise basic emotions of feeling happy or sad. When in separate classes, boys are taught to recognise the full spectrum of their emotions. In the later grades of primary school and early high school, hormone-driven boys and girls in separate classes are able to learn without feeling as if they have to appeal to members of the opposite sex, says Keller. Some of the schools that are opting to separate the sexes include Bergvliet High, Edgemead Primary, Sunlands Primary, Kenridge Primary and Camps Bay High. Some Eastern Cape schools were separating classes after going on courses and hearing Keller speak. Thembi Ndlovu, president of the SA Principals’ Association’s KwaZulu-Natal branch and principal of Khanyanjalo JP Primary in Durban, says separating the sexes is not something schools there are doing. “Boys and girls learn in the same classes and must be able to do so together,” she says.
a textbook for every learner Soon, your child will be able to access his science or maths textbook via his cellphone. The Department of Education aims to put a textbook in the hands of every learner by 2012 and Siyavula, a Shuttleworth Foundation project that promotes the use of technology in education, has lent its support by offering learners and educators access to its online textbooks. The project has submitted their openly licenced maths and physical science text books to the department for inclusion in the 2012 textbook list. “If they make it onto the approved booklist for 2012, any learner will be able to read a prescribed textbook on their cellphone, whether in class, on the bus or at home,” says Siyavula’s Mark Horner. Conventional textbooks are often prohibitively expensive and not always available. The online textbooks will be accessible to learners and teachers, who will be able to legally copy, change, print and distribute them. For more about the digital textbooks, visit siyavula.cnx.org
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August 2011
15
ideas
so in love with
science
ROBYN GOSS suggests eight ways to
c
unleash your child’s inner Einstein.
hildren are natural scientists. As soon as they can stretch out their hands, they set about trying to understand their surroundings. They conduct sound experiments with pitch and volume, diligently explore the properties of puréed apple and quickly learn to dismantle everything within their reach. You can keep this love of science alive by encouraging their natural inclination to explore, experiment and explain their world.
measuring and weighing activities Arm your little scientist with a variety of containers of different shapes and sizes and turn her loose in the bath or the sandpit. Point out how the same volume of sand is held by both a long thin bottle and a short fat bottle, how water trickles through a thin opening but pours through a wider one and count how many cups of sand it takes to fill a bucket.
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Take it outdoors and teach your child to measure the world with rain gauges and outdoor thermometers. If you don’t have a rain gauge, visit ehow.com for ideas on making your own. Talk to your child about any environmental changes he might be noticing. Does today feel colder than yesterday? Does it seem to be raining more this week than last week? Older children can record their readings in a notebook and compare them over a whole season.
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There’s no better place for a child to learn about science than in the kitchen, where they can witness first-hand the effects of mixing ingredients and subjecting them to heat or cold. Talk about the way the texture of flour changes when a liquid is added, what happens to cream when it’s whipped, how fruit juice turns into an ice lolly in the freezer – and then back into fruit juice; and why a lump of biscuit dough changes shape when it’s rolled out on the table.
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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM, ILLUSTRATIONS: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN
Get a small kitchen scale and a collection of items to weigh – small and large tomatoes, stones of different sizes, a potato, a pen, your house keys or a slice of bread. If you don’t have a kitchen scale, use a bathroom scale and weigh heavier objects, such as books and toys. If your child is old enough, you can teach him how to read the measurements.
the natural world
5
Get organising. Gather a variety of objects from the garden, such as different sized stones, coloured leaves, pine cones, twigs, bits of bark (although household items will also do) and let your child organise them in as many ways as she can. Set them out from smallest to largest and from softest to hardest. Let her guess which objects will float or sink, which will feel prickly and which will feel soft.
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Teach your child about solids, liquids and gases using water. Help your child follow the transformation of water from one state to another; from the tap to the freezer to the stove top. What other solids and liquids can you find in the house? Are there any gases your child might encounter (such as helium in balloons and the exhaust fumes they may smell on the road)? Turn your little explorer loose with a magnifying glass. Garden soil, the inside of a tomato, the lounge carpet... everything looks thrillingly different in extreme close-up.
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Encourage your child to drop a variety of objects from shoulder height and watch what happens. If you’re feeling brave you could even drop an egg to really get their attention. With older children, you can talk about gravity. Get the younger ones to predict what they think will bounce and what won’t, then test their theories.
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let science take you places The Old Mutual MTN Sciencentre in Gateway Theatre of Shopping offers children an array of interactive exhibits, including a gyroscope and air rockets. Contact 031 566 8040 or visit gatewaysciencecentre.co.za
read more about it Maverick Science: 50 Incredible Experiments to Try at Home by Chris Smith and Dave Ansell (Struik).
For more science-related about-science
magazine durban
books,
visit
childmag.co.za/content/mad-
August 2011
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book extract
banish boring lunch boxes Forget about soggy sarmies and humdrum fillings. MARGARET BARCA suggests four nutritious recipes that will turn snack-time into a gastronomic treat.
hammy pinwheels
popcorn muddle
Makes 6 pinwheels
Makes 4 cups
• 2 slices soft white or wholemeal bread • 2 tablespoons light cream cheese • 2 slices thin ham • bean sprouts (optional)
• 1 cup popping corn • 1 tablespoon oil • ½ cup dried apricots or peaches, chopped • ½ cup peanuts • ½ cup sultanas • ½ cup choc bits
1 Cut the crusts off the bread and
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bag for an easy school snack.
1 Pop corn in microwave roll) and press lightly to secure. Cut each roll into three pinwheels, and garnish with bean sprouts if desired. Tip: Pita or any other flat bread can be used for a looser roll-up.
PHOTOGRAPHS: julie renouf
lightly press each slice with a rolling pin to flatten. 2 S pread cream cheese on the bread, making sure to spread right to the edges. 3 Lay a slice of ham on each bread slice, then roll up (as for a Swiss
4 Pack in a small tub or Ziploc plastic
or saucepan, following directions on packet. 2 When cool, combine with the other ingredients. 3 Store in an airtight container.
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chicken and mango couscous salad
shredded cheddar and veggie roll-up
Makes 2 servings
Makes 2 roll-ups
dressing • 1 tablespoon light olive oil • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice • salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup grated Cheddar cheese • ½ cup grated carrot • 1 tomato, sliced • ½ small red capsicum, chopped • 2 pieces wholemeal pita bread • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 tablespoon tzatziki
salad • 1 cup couscous • 2 cups hot chicken stock • 1 small cucumber, chopped • 1 spring onion, finely sliced • 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint • 1 mango, peeled and cut into cubes • ½ grilled chicken breast fillet, sliced or ¼ cold roast chicken, sliced • extra finely chopped flat-leaf parsley, to serve
1 To make dressing, whisk together oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
2 For the salad, put couscous in a
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Tip: Tzatziki is a Greek dip of yoghurt and cucumber. You can substitute ½ a cup of cream cheese, combined with ½ a teaspoon of crushed garlic. You can add any of your child’s favourite vegetables – cooked green beans, asparagus spears or grated courgette are just some of the options.
1 Layer cheese, carrot, tomato and
2 medium-sized bowl, pour hot stock over, cover tightly and leave for 5 minutes until stock is absorbed. 3 F luff couscous with a fork to separate grains. 4 Stir cucumber, spring onion, parsley, mint and dressing through the couscous. Then gently stir in the mango. 5 Divide couscous between two bowls or lunch containers, place chicken slices on top and sprinkle with extra parsley.
capsicum on half of each piece of bread. Season with salt and pepper if desired, and spoon tzatziki over. Roll up tightly and wrap well.
about the book Does your child bring home an unopened lunch box, or indulge in unhealthy, tuck shop snacks instead of eating the sandwiches you packed? It may be time to rethink the lunch box, advises Margaret Barca. She has compiled a Lunchbox Bible (Penguin Australia) brimming with healthy, time-saving recipes, to keep your children interested in their lunches. Many of the meals use leftovers and can be prepared the night before. Available at all good bookshops nationwide.
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resource
beyond the classroom TAMLYN VINCENT recommends fascinating, offbeat school outings that will keep children entertained while they learn.
1000 Hills Bird Park
Boot Camp SA
Botha’s Hill
Giba Gorge, Westmead
Children can see and learn about different birds, including toucans from the Amazon and a variety of African birds. Pony rides and a play area are also available. Children can enjoy a ride down the zip line or they can visit the old-fashioned sweet shop and the ice cream parlour. The park is open Tuesday to Sunday 8am to 4pm. School outings cater for children of all ages and special school rates start at R12 per child. Contact Scott: 076 810 8013, raredleg@ iafrica.com or visit 1000hillsbirdpark.com
This outdoor venue offers a range of team building and life orientation programmes for children from Grade 1. By doing physical activities in an encouraging and supportive environment, children learn about communication, leadership and they develop a positive self-image. They can get into the spirit of boot camp with reconnaissance missions, team problem solving, debriefings, brainstorming and other activities. The length and cost of the activities depend on the programme and the number of children in the group.
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Optional extras, souvenirs and catering are available at an additional cost. Contact 031 701 7282, 082 782 6432, durban@bootcamp-sa.co.za or visit bootcamp-sa.co.za
Crocodile Creek Ballito Children go on guided tours learning about the Nile crocodiles, alligators, and slender-snouted and dwarf crocodiles. The reptiles range in size from 30cm hatchlings to crocodiles weighing more than 600kg. Children can walk on the bush trail and learn more about mambas
and pythons. Tours can be organised to suit any school group, from preschool to Grade 12, and can be held in Afrikaans, English, Xhosa or Zulu. Tours usually take from 45 minutes to one-and-a-half hours, depending on the size of the group. Contact 082 920 0730, crocodilecreek@ mweb.co.za or visit crocodilecreek.net
Durban Botanic Gardens Berea They offer hands-on learning experiences, in small groups, for children from Grades 0 to 12. Each course is designed to meet the individual needs of a particular class, and
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Children can see skeletons of extinct species, including a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and a model of an elephant bird with its fossilised egg. The science and technology displays offer a hands-on experience for little learners and everyone can enjoy visiting the 2 300-year-old mummy. Tours are free and can take up to 45 minutes, with educational DVDs an optional extra. Contact 031 311 2256
Ecabazini Zulu Cultural Village Albert Falls Dam outside Pietermaritzburg
it ensures that children become ecoliterate. Teachers can choose from a variety of programmes and themes, such as a backyard safari, “plants and our senses”, or “growing food with permaculture”. Programmes run from 9am until 12pm, and the duration depends on the age of the group and the type of programme selected. Courses cost R25 per child. Contact 031 309 1170, dbginfo@durban. gov.za or visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za
Durban Natural Science Museum Durban CBD This museum boasts displays of many of the animals in the southern hemisphere, and exhibits about the Earth and its history.
magazine durban
Scholars can learn about all aspects of Zulu life, from their Nguni cattle to the traditional and medicinal plants and crops they use, at this authentic homestead. Children can also spend a night in the beehive and rondavel huts, where they experience cultural dancing and eat traditional food. Dinner, bed and breakfast are included in the overnight stay package. Contact David: 033 342 1928, 084 746 9741 or visit ecabazini.co.za
Giba Gorge Horse Trails Westmead Blaze a trail for your class outing. Children of any age can enjoy the pony rides, and the pony venue accommodates 15 or more children. Pony rides are R40 per child and last for 15 minutes. Children older than eight can go on the horse trails, which
meander through the bush. These rides are R150 per child and last for one hour. There are also night rides. Contact Cheryl: 082 623 3783, swallowfarm@hotmail.com or visit gibagorgehorsetrails.co.za
for younger or older children. The feast and tour costs R70 per child, and children can hire a costume for R40. Contact 031 765 9400, camelot@ greensleeves.co.za or visit greensleeves.co.za
Hakuna Matata Charters Greensleeves
Durban Marina
Hillcrest Take a medieval tour through a castle and learn about knights, weaponry, tournaments and growing up in the Middle Ages. The tour, which starts at 10am and finishes at 12:30pm, includes a meal of pottage and bread. Some students will be able to act as serving wenches and lackeys. The tour is aimed at Grades 5 to 7, but can be adapted
Take a boat trip around the harbour on a catamaran. Tours are half an hour long and children can see an assortment of ships and boats coming in and out of the harbour. There are discounted rates of R25 per child for school groups of 40 or more children. Bring your own food and drinks. Contact Chantell: 031 307 3782, 083 274 6846 or visit hmcharters.co.za
Crow – Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife Yellowwood Park Crow cares for, and rehabilitates, injured or orphaned wild animals until they are ready for release into a protected wildlife environment. They take in between 3 000 and 5 000 animals, reptiles and birds every year. School children can learn about these animals and wildlife conservation. Children from the age of six go on age-appropriate tours in groups of 10 to 35, at R10 per child. Contact Sharon: 031 462 1127, education@ crowkzn.co.za or visit crowkzn.co.za
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resource
KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Umhlanga Children learn more about these marine predators and their importance in the ecosystem with an audio-visual presentation and a shark dissection. The shark museum has lifelike replicas of the fish. Show times are Tuesday to Thursday, 9am and 2pm and Sunday at 2pm. Enquire about boat trips from the harbour. These trips are for children six years and older. Contact 031 566 0435, or for boat trips: 082 403 9206
Lucky Linton Gold Mine Ballito Children get to learn more about gold by going down a mineshaft and watching a gold panning demonstration. Other activities include pony rides, a foefie slide, feeding the chickens and ducks and rafting on the dam. There are picnic and braai sites. The mine is open from 7am until 4pm. The cost is R15 entry fee per child, with an additional cost for certain activities, coffee, tea and cool drinks. Contact 032 947 1459, 083 255 1277 or visit luckylinton.com
Mini Town Durban beach front This landmark boasts a miniature city, complete with a mini airport and aeroplanes, trains and ships. Many of the buildings are replicas of Durban’s well-known buildings. Younger children are guaranteed to enjoy seeing a diminutive version of the city. The attraction is open from 9am to 12:30pm and from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. The costs are adults R12, children R10, or to hire the venue R200. Contact Brian: 031 337 7892
Moses Mabhida Stadium Stamford Hill Children can learn about the construction of this impressive stadium, and more about the person it was named after. The auditorium where the presentation is held can accommodate up to 100 learners. Children can take a 30-minute tour of the stadium. The presentation and tour are complimentary to schools and available all day every Monday and in the morning from Tuesday to Friday. Outings must be
booked in advance. A ride in the Skycar to the stadium’s highest point is an optional extra at a cost of R50 for adults and R25 for children under 12. Contact 031 582 8252 or visit mosesmabhidhastadium.co.za
Old Mutual MTN Sciencentre Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Umhlanga They offer exciting and interactive science workshops, exhibits and planetarium shows. Children can experience ageappropriate presentations, which are linked to their school curriculum. The two-hour programme costs R27 per learner. The Sciencentre is open Monday to Thursday 9am to 7pm, Friday and Saturday 9am to 9pm and Sunday 9am to 6pm. Contact Gracia: 031 566 8040, bookings@ sciencentre.co.za or visit sciencentre.co.za
PheZulu Safari Park Botha’s Hill This park offers magnificent views of The Valley of 1000 Hills and a fascinating educational opportunity. Learners can explore a traditional Zulu village and see cultural dancing, and visit the crocodile and snake park. This park is home to a 102-year-old Nile crocodile, a threemetre long Burmese python, and other interesting species. Dancing takes place at 10am, 11:30am, 2pm and 3:30pm. Contact 031 777 1000, info@ phezulusafaripark.co.za or visit phezulusafaripark.co.za
Playworks Team building Kings Rest They offer fun and interesting team building and game options, led by experienced and dynamic facilitators. You choose a venue, be it at the beach or in the bush, and they bring the games to you. There are different options and themes for you to choose from depending on the age of the children, and the goal of your team-building exercise. Try Crazy Ball Games or Survivor for younger children, or Amazing Race, House Mystery or The Quest for older groups. As packages are designed to suit your needs, the duration and cost of the activity will depend on the number of children and the activities selected. Contact 082 856 1018, info@playworks. co.za or visit playworks.co.za
The Harvestry Noo-Noo Farm Botha’s Hill Open only to schools, this venue offers three options for learners. The Noo–Noo Farm is an outdoor education centre where children learn about insects and bugs in a safe environment. In option two, children must use maps to find their way through the Savage Jungle and commando course. Plantopia is an educational centre where children learn about flora in an interesting way. A visit to each venue takes two hours and costs R16. Booking is essential. Contact 031 765 7370, ctharvey@ telkomsa.net or visit theharvestry.co.za
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Spirit of Adventure Shongweni Dam Adventure, challenges and the outdoors offer great learning opportunities for children of every age, and Spirit of Adventure uses this to develop personal growth and teamwork. The courses offered are fun and age appropriate. They include various activities, such as abseiling, rock climbing, water activities and obstacle courses. There is rustic, overnight accommodation for up to 120 learners, where they can cook dinner on a campfire before enjoying one of the nocturnal activities. The camp site has 24-hour security. Cost and times of courses depend on the options selected. Contact Liz: 0861 333 919, 082 736 3651, info@spiritofadventure.co.za or visit spiritofadventure.co.za
Tala School Excursions
uShaka Marine World
Eston
Golden Mile
Children get to experience the outdoors with game drives, a nature or insect trail and bush walks. Binocular handling, bird watching and wild bird ringing activities are also available. Learners bring their own lunches, which can be enjoyed after a swim in the rock pool. School outings can be adapted to suit your needs and budget. Contact Jaccy: 082 812 0839 or education@tala.co.za
Children can spend the night in The Phantom Ship, surrounded by fish, sharks and other unusual sea creatures. This unique activity includes supper, breakfast, an educational activity and a movie with a snack. Sleepovers are for a minimum of 30 children aged between seven and 13 years old. They start at 6pm and end at 8am the following morning. It costs R165 per child and R80 per teacher or adult. Day outings are also available and are suited to the particular grade and the curriculum. Go on a tour through Sea World, get the 45-minute interactive presentation or take the four-hour course where small groups get individual attention. There must be a minimum of 15 children for these tours. Contact 031 328 8108, bookings@ ushakamarineworld.co.za or visit ushakamarineworld.co.za or for Sea World tours: 031 328 8195/6
Wavehouse Extreme PE Treasure Beach
Umhlanga Ridge
The Bluff This environmental education centre makes use of the nearby natural diversity to offer a range of courses for schools. The rocky shores, mangrove swamps, dune forests, Durban’s harbour and a freshwater vlei allow for numerous learning opportunities. Children find out more about the different environments, conservation, ecosystems and the impact of humans on these areas. Other courses include geomorphology, energy and climate change, and leadership and team building. Courses are four hours and cost R38,50 for Grades 5 and up and R35 for Grades 1 to 4. Contact 031 467 8507/8, verlin@wessakzn. org.za or tbeachadmin@wessakzn.org.za magazine durban
Physical activities are used to promote health and fitness, while keeping the emphasis on fun. The Mini Team Build sees the children divided into groups and rotating between the different activities, with a Wavehouse facilitator present to assist and encourage the children. Activities include climbing the indoor rock, playing basketball, surfing the Flowrider, playing mini soccer and enjoying the supertubes. Learners are awarded with a certificate upon completion. They are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm. The venue can accommodate groups of 25 to 150 children at R45 per child. Contact Kim: 031 584 9400 or kim.perry@ wavehouse.co.za August 2011
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my story
room to grow CHRISTINA CASTLE reluctantly accepts her teenage son’s
m
y eldest son, Dylan, 13, immigrated last year – to his own room. It was his decision. He said that Alex, 10, kept him awake at night with his silly jokes, sleep talking, snoring and other bodily noises. Besides, he just wanted his own space, he said. Until then they had happily shared a room. And had pretty much done so since day dot. It was a simple room, but it was cosy and expressed just who “we” were – “we” being the operative word, of course. It had two white, limewashed beds with matching denim duvets piled high with teddy bears, a bookcase lined with all our old favourites, toys spilling out of baskets, dinosaur posters that had
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gradually replaced the Pooh pics, driftwood sailing boats floating across the walls and a row of monkey skulls sitting on the window sill (a lovely collection donated by my husband to the boys when he believed they were old enough to love it as much as he did). I called the look “bush meets beach”. And then the teen years entered into the equation. Actually, I was quite impressed that Dylan lasted as long as he did in that room. I think he secretly enjoyed the company at night – seriously, do boys ever grow tired of giggling and farting? But he longed for a spot where he could grow into a smelly teenager, and I just had to suck it up and go with it. Just how far I would go though, was the real question. So I decided to brainstorm the look of his new room with him. “I like sport” he said, “so I am going to have all my Manchester United players along this side of the room and the Stormers over here. Surfing posters will go over there. And my surfboard – I might hang it from the ceiling next to the punching bag.”
Not exactly my design choice but he was proud of it. At least girls in bikinis were not featuring – yet. Overnight it became the equivalent of a locker room – complete with sweaty rugby socks, jocks and jerseys, and empty Energade bottles working as accessories to complement the poorly placed Manchester United calendar cutouts and skew Stormers heroes. I call this look “smelly chaos” and cringe every time I walk in there. I often used to just sit in the boys’ old room, when they weren’t there, and soak it up. It felt safe and familiar. But Dylan’s room is foreign. He has immigrated to a different space – physically, emotionally and aesthetically. And as a mom, I just have to move with it. The other day I was chatting to my interior design guru friend and I offloaded my frustrations about Dylan’s room, hoping for some inspiring decorating advice. “What’s the problem?” she said. “What could be better? Delicious boys all over the walls? It would become my favourite room in the house.” And I think she may be right. I’m off to buy Dylan another poster of Jean de Villiers.
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ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
move to his own bedroom with its “smelly-chaos” décor.
a good read
books
View our books blog at
childmag.co.za
educational books for early graders, pre-teens and teens Quiz Whiz – Nature (Kingfisher Books, R105) Fact-filled pages, bursting with colourful illustrations, introduce weather, climate, animal habitats and the environment to young learners. The book poses more than 300 questions, and provides the answers, to test learning in a simple but exciting way. Colourcoded clues ensure that no-one misses out on the fun. With lists of record-breakers at the end of each themed chapter, Quiz Whiz Nature has plenty to satisfy young minds. After studying each page and its photographs, children simply have to answer the questions and turn to the back to see if they are correct.
Active Learning – Children’s World Atlas Smart-Kids skills Grades 1 to 3 series: Multiplying and Dividing, Story Sums, Phonics and Spelling, and Adding and Subtracting (Pearson Education, from R39,95 each) This series helps children develop key skills from the South African curriculum. Each book has graded activities with step-by-step instructions and answers. Children will have so much fun working through these books with the lovable characters – Emma, Mandla, Jaco, Lebo, Ravi and Jody – that they won’t even know they’re learning. Experienced teachers, who believe that children should build their skills while developing a real love of learning, designed the Smart-Kids series.
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(Map Studio, from R110) This atlas boasts over 85 pages of colourful, easy-toread country-by-country maps, with interesting facts and figures and a reference index. Aimed at 10 to 15 year olds, the atlas contains the latest, updated mapping of the world. It includes physical, political, vegetation, human activities and time zone maps, and there is an informative introductory page for each continent. The Globeman character appears on the maps in his yellow Volkswagen Beetle, asking questions as he takes your child on a world tour.
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parenting books Ultimate Guide to Family Health By Dr Linda Friedland
Low Muscle Tone in Children By Pamela M.T. Dawson
Your Child Can Do Maths By Johan van Lil
(Pamela M.T. Dawson, from R120) The author qualified as a physiotherapist in 1987 and has since completed her Masters degree with research in Low Muscle Tone (LMT). Because LMT is a condition of idiopathic or unknown origin, the author felt it necessary to write this book. It outlines LMT as a clinical condition and fully describes the symptoms and how it is diagnosed. The physiotherapeutic management of this condition is fully discussed and it includes exercise plans. The book, written to be easily understood by parents, teachers and medical professionals, can be ordered via 031 763 3892, 082 578 9986 or pdawson@polka.co.za
(Metz Press, from R120) Did you battle with maths at school and does your child have the same problem? Or, were you a maths whiz but now you have no idea how to help your child who is struggling? Then this book, written in easy-to-follow language with useful advice, is for you. Learn why maths is important, how to use movement to wire your child’s brain for maths success, how to ensure your child remains positive about maths, and what basic knowledge and concepts all children should master. The book shows you how to help your child do addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, as well as which general maths problems to watch out for.
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(Human & Rousseau, R299,95) This comprehensive, easy-to-use medical guide was written especially for South Africans. In it Dr Friedland explains how to prevent illness and what are the major health threats and what to do about them. She discusses common medical conditions and how to treat them as well as children’s, women’s and men’s health problems and the solutions. She also covers first-aid and trauma treatment. One section of the book provides the reader with solid preventative health tips and goes on to explain the different diseases South African families are likely to encounter, their symptoms and possible treatments. This essential guide is a must-have for all homes.
Brain Rules for Baby By John Medina
your s question d e r answe
(Pear Press, from R218) What is the most important thing you can do during pregnancy? What does watching TV do to a child’s brain? What is the best way to handle temper tantrums? Scientists know the answers. In his New York Times bestseller Brain Rules, John Medina showed us how the brain really works and why we ought to redesign our workplaces and schools. In Brain Rules for Baby, he shares the latest scientific findings about how to raise smart and happy children from birth to the age of five. The book bridges the gap between what scientists know and what parents actually do.
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calendar
what’s on in august
You can also access the calendar online at
childmag.co.za
Spring is on the horizon and Durban is buzzing with fun for the whole family. TAMLYN VINCENT has compiled a list of activities to keep everyone happy.
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FUN FOR CHILDREN – p30
ONLY FOR PARENTS – p31
Horseback beach adventures Beach, bush and pony rides.
Cabaret A cabaret dancer meets an American writer in 1930s Berlin.
bump, baby & tot in tow– p32
how to help – p32
Tots n Pots Moms and their toddlers can have fun baking.
The Bra and Panty Drive Help girls from disadvantaged communities.
PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
sat
SPECIAL EVENTS – p28 Starlight Pop Opera Concert The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra entertains with a stellar line-up of South African musicians.
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calendar
SPECIAL EVENTS 1 monday 2011 National Science Week Organised to encourage children to develop an interest in science and maths. Participating schools can take students to see interactive science and technology displays. Time: varies. Venue: Old Mutual MTN Sciencentre. Cost: R20. Contact: 031 566 8040
3 wednesday Psychic Week Astrologers, hypnotists, massage therapists and more. Tarot readings and crossing over sessions, plus other divinations are on offer. Ends 7 August. Time: 10am–8pm. Venue: Suncoast Casino. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 328 3000 or visit suncoastcasino.co.za
4 thursday Nando’s Durbs Comedy Festival Comedians from all over the world join forces in this stand-up comedy show. Ends 6 August. Time: 8pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R130–R180. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
5 friday Dance for a Cure A range of dance styles, such as ballet, tap, African and opera dance come together in this performance for a greater good. Time: 7:30pm. Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R180. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
6 saturday Cabaret A classic, dark musical set in the Kit Kat Klub in 1930s Berlin. It tells the story of a jaded cabaret dancer and her relationship with an American writer. Ends 28 August. Time: 7:30pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 2:30pm, Saturday; 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZuluNatal, Glenwood. Cost: R130–R150. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Starlight Pop Opera Concert Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a stellar line-up of South African musicians and the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. Time: 5:30pm, gates open 3pm. Venue: Chris Saunders Park, Gateway. Cost: adults R80, students R30, children under 12 free. Contact: 031 369 9438
15 August – Night of 100 Stars
7 sunday Old Mutual Music at the Lake Take in the sounds of The Arrows and John Ellis. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: early bird R80, on concert day R100, children R20. Contact: 031 322 4021 or book through ticketbreak.co.za
9 tuesday Women’s Day at Dulce Café Women receive a complimentary gift with their meal on Women’s Day. To find your nearest branch: visit dulce.co.za Berry Beautiful Entertainment, lunch, makeovers and more for women. Time: 12pm. Venue: Fashion TV, Florida Rd, Morningside. Cost: R180. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
15 monday Night of 100 Stars Some of South Africa’s biggest celebrities, including Elana Afrika, Ben Voss and Damon Beard entertain to raise funds for Cansa. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Suncoast Casino. Cost: R350. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
17 wednesday Bollywood Doll A story of friendship and hope, told through the magical songs and dance of Bollywood. Ends 21 August. Time: 8pm. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Tea and talk Focus on iThemba invites you to learn from psychologist Natalie Cunniffe about achieving emotional wellbeing. Time: 10am–11:30am. Venue: Umhlali Country Club, Compensation Rd. Cost: free, donations welcome. Contact: 031 766 8300 or heather.schoeman@focusonithemba.org
18 thursday Cheese and wine fundraiser This is in aid of the KwaZulu-Natal Society for the Blind. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: College Rovers Rugby Club, Jaco Jackson Dr, Stamford Hill. Cost: R150 per couple. Contact Juanita: 031 202 7277 or juanita@kznblind.org.za
19 friday 9 August – Women’s Day at Dulce Café
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Hillcrest Primary golf day A topclass golfing event, following a four-ball magazine durban
alliance format. Time: 11:45am. Venue: Cotswold Downs, Hillcrest. Cost: R400 per person. Contact: 031 765 1214 or admin@ hillcrestprimary.co.za Reach for your Slippers Get your Slipper Stickers and wear your craziest slippers to work or school. Schools can win a tailor-made theatrical production, and companies or individuals can win an overnight stay at Upton Hall for 20 people. Cost: R10. Contact Anna: 031 566 2220, prkzn@reachforadream.org.za or visit reachforadream.org.za
18 thurs
20 saturday Ballet Africa KZN Dance Centre features dancers 4–20 years old. Time: 3pm and 6pm. Venue: The Playhouse Drama Stage, Anton Lembede St, Durban CBD. Cost: R85. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
21 sunday Lyrics on the Lawn Join Penzance and Northwood schools for this concert. Tickets available on the day. Time: 2:30pm–4pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, scholars R20. For more info: visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za Corobrik Orchestra 2011 Musicians of all ages come together to play as a massed orchestra. Register to play or be part of the audience. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Indoor Sports Centre, UKZN Westville Campus. Cost: adults R55, children R40, Contact: 031 202 6174 or bcha1820@global.co.za
24 wednesday James Blunt This star’s Some Kind of Trouble Tour reaches Durban with songs like “You’re Beautiful” and “Goodbye My Lover”. Time: 8pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R221–R426. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Mercury Wine Week Wine lovers taste a wide variety of wines from all over South Africa. Ends 26 August. Time: 5:30pm–9pm. Venue: Suncoast Casino. Cost: R95. Book through Computicket: 083 915 80000 or visit computicket.com World Chefs Tour Against Hunger Two hundred chefs from 30 countries cook to raise funds for South African feeding schemes. Gala dinners and cooking demos are held, plus you can buy a chef’s hat for R10. Ends 27 August. Time: varies. Venue: participating Southern Sun
The Reach for a Dream Comedy Night Kevin Perkins as Michael Naicker, and local comedian Glen Bo, entertain audiences for a good cause. Take a picnic hamper. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Crawford College, 79 Armstrong Ave, La Lucia. Cost: R100 in the gallery, R150 at a table. Contact Anna: 031 566 2220, prkzn@reachforadream.org. za or visit reachforadream.org.za
hotels. Cost: varies. For more info: visit worldchefstour.co.za
26 friday The Baby Expo Take in Mama Magic, with an experts’ lounge, play area, preggie lounge and great exhibitions for parents and parents-to-be. Children can meet Barney daily at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Ends 28 August. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R60, children under 10 free. For more info: visit yourbabyshow.co.za The Love Musical Ends 4 September. Time: 7pm, Monday–Thursday; 7:30pm, Friday– Saturday; 6pm Sunday. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000
27 saturday Carnival Fair and Reunion Day This family day has food, fun and festivities for all. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: 115
24–26 August – Mercury Wine Week
magazine durban
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calendar Bulwer Rd, Glenwood. Cost: free entry. Contact Carina: 031 202 3879 or carina@ glenwoodpreschool.org.za For the Love of your Child workshop A discussion on ADHD and how it affects children, plus practical advice on how to help children with ADHD. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Gordon Road Girls’ School, Morningside. Cost: R650. Contact Stuart: 031 208 8896 or stuart@nutrineeds.co.za
27 sat
28 sunday Mind, Body, Soul Fair Health, holistic and spiritual exhibitions plus talks, entertainment and food. Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Westville Civic Centre, William Leicester Dr. Cost: free entry. Contact Shalini: 072 428 3431
30 tuesday The Final Countdown Go on a wild ride through six decades of fashion and music. Ends 16 October. Time: 6:30pm, Tuesday– Saturday; 12:30pm, Sunday. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: R125, Tuesday and Sunday R90. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres. co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za
FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science African Art Centre Celebrates women with a Dina Cormick exhibition titled Honouring the Stories within Every Woman – Images for the Journey. 10 August–2 September. Time: 8:30am–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–3pm, Saturday. Venue: Florida Rd, Durban. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 312 3804/5 or visit afriart.org.za Port Natal Maritime Museum Captures the maritime and shipping history
Fine Young Cooks
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Just Because We Love You fun day Promises fun and games for the whole family. Putt to win and enjoy free samples, while children get their faces painted and play on the jumping castle. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Hillcrest Corner. Cost: free. Contact: 031 765 5345 or 031 266 2410
and zip line. Time: 8am–4pm, Tuesday– Sunday. Venue: 1 Clement Stott Rd, Botha’s Hill. Cost: adults R25, children R15. Contact: 072 927 8242 or visit 1000hillsbirdpark.co.za Duck ’n Deck Animal Farm Children can interact with farm animals, or take 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 Horseback beach adventures Ride along the beach or through the bush. Pony rides on Saturday and Sunday. Time: 2pm, Friday–Wednesday; pony rides 2pm–5pm. Venue: Durban South. Cost: R250–R350, pony rides R10. Contact: 084 467 0752, horsebackbeachadventures@gmail.com or visit horsebeachrides.co.za
markets of Durban and KwaZulu-Natal. Time: 8:30am–3:45pm, Monday–Saturday; 11am –3:45pm, Sunday and public holidays. Venue: Samora Machel St, Durban. Cost: free. Contact: 031 311 2231
classes, talks and workshops Drumkidz Djembe drum sessions get children drumming to stories and songs. Eight lessons per term. For children 3–7 years. Time: 3pm–3:30pm, every Wednesday and Saturday. Venue: Wednesday in the Kloof Library Hall, Saturday in Glenwood. Cost: eight lessons R295. Contact Robynne: 083 631 6064, robynne@drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za Fine Young Cooks Offers cooking lessons for children, teaching kitchen safety, cooking techniques and recipes. For children 4–12 years. Time: varies. Venue: Ballito. Cost: nine-week term R585, lesson R70. Contact Laurinda: 083 303 6055 or Lewaine: 082 378 1912 or lewaine@tiscali.co.za Holistic Healing for Kids Focuses on mindnastics, building self-esteem and improving concentration. Time: 2pm, Monday–Saturday. Venue: North Beach, Durban. Cost: R200. Contact Rookaya: 031 332 9724 or rookayavawda@mweb.co.za Model Dynamics Weekly classes teach confidence, correct posture and how to walk and pose correctly. Time: 10am–11:30am, Saturday. Venue: St John’s
Church hall, 205 Clark Rd, Glenwood. Cost: R250 a month. Contact: 083 356 1317 or dianne@modeldynamics.co.za
family outings @tap coffee corner Parents can relax with a cuppa while children enjoy the beautiful garden and well equipped playground. Time: 9am–4pm, Tuesday– Friday; 8am–2pm, Saturday. Venue: 20 MacKeurtan Ave, Durban North. Contact: 031 563 2678 or 031 563 0882 Books2You Fair Find popular titles by your favourite authors at affordable prices. Time: 2 August 10am–3pm, 3 August 7:30am–2pm. Venue: Berea West Junior Primary School. Also at Northlands Primary School 10–11 August and Kainon School 17 August. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 907 1577, info@books2you.co.za or visit books2you.co.za The Inchanga Choo Choo Travels from Kloof Station to Inchanga and back. 28 August. Time: departs 8:30am and 12:30pm; returns 10:30am and 3pm. Venue: departs Kloof Station. Cost: adults R150, children R120. Contact: 087 808 7715 or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za
Essenwood Market Fresh food, children’s activities and stalls. Time: 9am–2pm, every Saturday. Venue: Essenwood Rd. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 208 1264 or visit essenwoodmarket.com Farmer’s Market Non-refrigerated fresh produce. Time: 10am–1pm. Venue: Amanzimtoti Sports Club (Tuesday), Autumn Dr, Umhlanga (Wednesday) Jimmy Bellows Sport Field, Westville (Thursday). Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 413 1887 Golden Hours Family Market Fundraising initiative of Golden Hours Special School. Time: 10am–3:30pm, every Sunday. Venue: Uitsig Rd, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact Lyn: 083 262 3693 i heart market Home and handmade craft market with treats for the whole
finding nature and outdoor play 1000 Hills Bird Park Home to rare and exotic birds, with a sweet shop, play area
Model Dynamics
magazine durban
The Litchi Orchard Market
family. 6 August. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: DLI Hall, 5 Durban Light Infantry Ave, Greyville. Cost: free entry. Contact: 079 496 4788 or thejoyteam@gmail.com Kloof Country market Find eco-friendly and quality products and homemade goods. Restaurant available. 6 August. 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 The Food Market Locally produced foods, children’s corner, mini flower market and tea garden. 27 August. Time: 8am–2pm. Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 777 5633 or visit thefoodmarket.co.za The Litchi Orchard Market Covered market featuring live music and a children’s playground. 6 and 20 August. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Seaforth Ave, Foxhill. Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 205 6151 or jeremy@litchiorchard.co.za
Bollywood Doll 17–21 August. Time: 8pm. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Lyrics on the Lawn Tickets available on the day. 21 August. Time: 2:30pm–4pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: adults R40, scholars R20. For more info: visit durbanbotanicgardens.org.za Old Mutual Music at the Lake 7 August. Time: 2:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: early bird R80, on concert day R100, children R20. Contact: 031 322 4021 or book through ticketbreak.co.za Starlight Pop Opera Concert with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. 6 August. Time: 5:30pm, gates open 3pm. Venue: Chris Saunders Park, Gateway. Cost: adults R80, students R30, children under 12 free. Contact: 031 369 9438
playtime and story time Children’s story time A story followed by a craft or activity. For ages 3–8 years. Time: 10am, every Saturday. Venue: 26 Rockview Rd, Amanzimtoti. Cost: free. Contact: 031 903 6692 or thebookboutique@gmail.com Steam train rides Ride a miniature steam engine. Second and fourth Sunday of every month. Playground and tea/coffee are available. Time: 11am–4pm. Venue: 4 Hinton Grove, Virginia. Cost: R5 per ride. Contact: 083 284 6469
sport and physical activities Durban Ice Rink Open seven days a week, with five skate sessions daily. Don’t forget to take socks. Time: varies. Venue: 81 Somtseu Rd, Durban. Cost: R40 includes skate hire. Contact: 031 332 4597 or visit durbanicerink.co.za
on stage and screen Ballet Africa Dancers aged 4−20 years old perform. 20 August. Time: 3pm and 6pm. Venue: The Playhouse Drama Stage, Anton Lembede St, Durban CBD. Cost: R85. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
magazine durban
Essenwood Market
Mongoose Primary Schools mountain bike series Experienced and entry level school mountain bikers can join in this series. Various age categories available. 27 August. Time: 1pm. Venue: Highbury, Hillcrest. Cost: R30 entry. Contact André: 082 336 7149 or andre@hps.co.za
only for parents classes, talks and workshops Domestic cooking lessons Six-week course teaching domestic workers to cook wholesome family meals. Starts 2 August. Time: 9am–12pm, Tuesday or Friday. Venue: Ballito. Cost: R320. Contact Lewaine: 082 378 1912 Durban Art Gallery bead workshop Learn about traditional beadwork with Nguni design. 30 and 31 August. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Durban Art Gallery, 2nd floor, City Hall, Anton Lembede St, Durban CBD. Cost: R50. Contact Phumzile: 031 311 2268/4 or 076 890 2391 Edu-Maid child stimulation course Domestic workers can learn new skills. Time: course runs over two sessions from 8am–12pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Sunningdale. Cost: R350. Contact Eleanor: 084 821 6668 Fat Cow Catering and Training School This new cooking school offers classes for everyone, from the amateur chef to single parents, or even just couples who want a fun evening out. Time: varies. Venue: 33 Churchill Rd, Morningside. Cost: from R250 a class. Contact Dayle or Warwick: 074 183 1663, 079 526 6851 or visit fat-cow.co.za Homeopathy in the home A workshop covering natural remedies for everyday
The Final Countdown Celebrating six decades of rock ‘n roll. 30 August–16 October. Time: 6:30pm Tuesday–Saturday, 12:30pm Sunday. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway. Cost: R125, Tuesday and Sunday R90. Contact: 031 566 3045 or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za
ailments, focusing on children. 27 August. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: 18 Musgrave Rd, Musgrave. Cost: free. Contact Cherald: 031 202 3082 Sugar Me cake decorating workshop Learn the art of cake decorating. 6 August. Time: 2pm–6pm. Venue: Broadway Methodist Church, Durban North. Cost: R450. Contact Maria: 072 837 9198 or visit sugarmedurban.blogspot.com
on stage and screen Cabaret 6–28 August. Time: 7:30pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 2:30pm, Saturday; 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Glenwood. Cost: R130–R150. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Dance for a Cure A range of dance styles are showcased for a greater good. 5 August. Time: 7:30pm. Venue: Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban CBD. Cost: R180. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Nando’s Durbs Comedy Festival Standup comedy with international comedians. 4–6 August. Time: 8pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R130–R180. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
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calendar The Baby Expo Brings you Mama Magic. 25–28 August. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: ICC, Durban CBD. Cost: R60, children under 10 free. For more info: visit yourbabyshow.co.za
playtime and story time
Robin Hood Foundation
The Love Musical 26 August–4 September. Time: 7pm, Monday–Thursday; 7:30pm, Friday–Saturday; 6pm, Sunday. Venue: The iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com
support groups Adhasa support groups For adult and child ADHD. 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. Alateen is for younger relatives or friends of alcoholics. For more info contact: 031 304 1826 or visit alanon.org.za Cansa Support Durban North For survivors, relatives and friends. Second Tuesday of every month. Venue: Durban North Methodist Church hall. Contact: 031 564 2510. For Cansa support groups in other areas contact: 031 205 9525 Childhood cancer parent support group CHOC schedules regular support meetings. Contact Gill: 084 831 3683 or visit choc.org.za Childline Works to protect children, counsel abuse victims, educate and train. Call the toll-free line: 0800 055 555 or visit childlinesa.org.za Child Welfare Durban and District Provides support, development and care for orphaned or abandoned babies, as well as counselling for birth parents. They also investigate and manage cases of neglect and abuse. For more info contact: 031 312 9313 or visit 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 For depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other mood and anxiety disorders. Call the national helpline on 0800 205 121 for referral to the relevant support group Diabetes South Africa Contact: 0861 222 717 or durban@diabetessa.co.za Down Syndrome Association KZN Intuthuko Support Group meeting for those with Down’s syndrome and their families. Third Saturday of every month. 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
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coffee mornings are held four times a year. Contact Di: 083 443 8385 or dimaitland@ tiscali.co.za Famsa Offers family and relationship counselling, parenting guidance, conflict resolution and more. Venue: 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood. Contact: 031 202 8987 Hoping is Coping Nationwide support groups for those newly diagnosed with cancer and for 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: 031 205 9525, 03l 205 9525 or 072 248 0008 Sadag South African Depression and Anxiety Group offers assistance to those suffering from depression or drug abuse or 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, their family and friends. Contact Imraan: 082 786 3718 or visit speakeasy.org.za Sugarbabe Foundation Invites parents of children with diabetes or interested individuals to form support groups as these would help make it possible for children to attend camps organised by the Sugarbabe Foundation. Contact Eldice: 031 266 1280 or sgrbbfoundation@gmail.com
bump, baby & Tot in tow
classes, talks and workshops Childminder training and first aid workshops Nannies, au pairs and firsttime parents get trained in the essentials, including hygiene, newborn care, home safety and more. Time: varies. Venue: Glen Anil. Cost: depends on course selected. Contact Kate: 071 968 1007 or durban@ edubabe.co.za Infant massage workshops Learn structured baby massage to stimulate your little one. Time: 2:30pm–4pm, 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 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
Clamber Club Movement and stimulation classes for toddlers and babies, in ageappropriate groups. Time: varies. Venues: baby classes available in Hillcrest, toddler classes available in Ballito, Durban North and Kloof. Cost: varies. For more info: visit clamberclub.com Moms and Tots and Moms and Babes workshops Children learn through play, educational toys, music and songs and socialisation. For babies 2–12 months and toddlers 3–3½ years. Time: varies. Venues: branches available in Umhlanga, Durban North, the Highway area and Glenwood. Cost: varies. Contact: info@momsandtots. co.za or visit momsandbabes.co.za or momsandtots.co.za Muslimahs and Tots workshops Interactive programmes designed to 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
Toptots Children 8 weeks–4 years can join an age-appropriate class to learn and play. Time: varies. Venues: Durban North, Ballito, Kloof, Hillcrest, Westville, Glenwood and Hilton. Cost: approximately R810 per term. Contact: 031 266 4910, 082 876 7791, info@toptots.co.za or visit toptots.co.za Tots n Pots Fun baking and cooking workshops for tots 2–4 years old and moms. Time: 2:30pm, Wednesday and Thursday; 9am, Saturday. Venue: varies. Cost: varies. Contact Samantha: 079 124 8839
support groups La Leche A worldwide breast-feeding support organisation. For support and questions contact Jane: 031 309 1801 or visit llli.org/southafrica Moms and Babes support group Meets monthly for a talk. 16 August. Time: 9am–10:30am. Venue: Alberlito Hospital, Ballito. Cost: free. Contact: 032 946 6956 or 032 946 1826 Postnatal Depression Support Association of South Africa Call the national helpline: 082 882 0072 or visit pndsa.co.za The South African Multiple Birth Association Support group for families with multiples. For counselling, contact: 082 338 2625, kzn@samultiplebirth.co.za or visit samultiplebirth.co.za
how to help From Your Heart to Mine Child Welfare Durban helps orphaned, abused and abandoned children in the area. To help them, you can make a once-off donation, or become a regular sponsor. You can also nominate your sponsorship in the name of your child for them to get updates about how they are helping other children. For more info: visit childwelfaredurban.org.za Hirsch’s giving back to the community They offer free workplace training to unemployed people in the Umhlanga area. They give everyone who attends an outfit suitable for an interview. They are looking for donations of good quality men’s and women’s clothing. Contact Jenny: 031 570 4000 or jenny@hirschs.co.za Robin Hood Foundation supporter bands These luminous green bands are on sale to help fund projects, including Love the Babies and Gogo bags. The bands are R20 each. For more info or to order bands, contact: 031 265 2000 or cindy@ proappoint.co.za The Bra and Panty Drive This initiative aims to collect new bras (from training bras to D cups) and panties to be given out to young girls from disadvantaged communities. Dropof bins available at selected Durban North Pick n Pay stores. To find out where to drop off, or for more info, contact Lisa: 073 953 6771 or lisa@smart-art.za.net
Sept
looking ahead Don Quixote This rendition of the Russian ballet returns to Durban from 29 September–5 October. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Johnson’s Baby Sense Seminar Top baby care experts offer informative advice. 10 September. Contact: 021 461 4669 or visit babysense.co.za
2011
Don Quixote
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 5 August for the September 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
August 2011
33
last laugh
snuggle down SAM WILSON makes up for years of sleep deprivation by lying in
Joe, Sam and Benj
i
had old friends over for brunch this weekend, and finally got to meet their three daughters, all under the age of three. Yep. Three under three. I know what you’re thinking, but no, their mother Jessie does not look like a wraith in need of an alcoholic IV and a month in a quiet padded cell; she’s miraculously well-dressed and at ease. But she did have that faintly hysterical air of the happy but perpetually under-slept. “How much sleep are you actually getting?” I asked, consolingly. (Well, I was trying to sound consoling, but truthfully it was more of a morbidly curious question.) “Well,” she said bravely. “Every few days, one of them will sleep through the
night and then the Sleep Fairy puts a little treat under her pillow, doesn’t she girls?” Three little girls look up at her blankly. “Okay, so it doesn’t happen that often, but we live in hope, don’t we?” she said, with that slightly hysterical lilt. I turned to Benjamin, who was innocently wolfing down a salmon bagel next to me, and glared at him with thinly disguised dislike. Benjamin did not sleep through the night once until he was three-and-a-half years old, and – despite his many charms – I have never quite forgiven him for it. Of course, I had brought it on myself by taunting the Goddess of Mothers during the first year of Josef’s life. “He’s always slept in 12-hour stretches,” I used to say smugly of my eldest’s miraculous sleeping pattern. “I think it’s because my pregnancy was so calming, and because we’re so structured with bed times. Routine makes all the difference, you know.”
(I know, I have thinly disguised dislike for Young Mom Me too.) Now that both of my boys are in double figures age-wise, I can look back on these dark memories while I doze in the morning as they do their own thing. Because you see, I am taking this sleep debt thing very seriously. I spent the first half of my thirties horribly sleep-deprived. And when I did get some shuteye, it was invariably while wrapped around some small, sweaty Human Torch who was intent on splaying his limbs like a starfish while keeping one toe firmly in my bellybutton. The boys owe me. Which is why, these days, I am now so emphatic about lying in on weekends. “We’re playing soccer in the garden, come join us!” my sons will shout through the window on a Saturday morning. But I just wave regally, and snuggle with a good book or a series on DVD.
“Mom has another hour of dozing to do, loved ones,” I’ll shout back. “Remember, I’ve still got that huge sleep debt to catch up on. Also... are either of you thinking of making a little tea and toast? Because I am beginning to feel rather peckish.” I know, it’s manipulative, but there’s nothing in the parenting rule book that forbids mothers from being childish. (Actually, there may be. I’ve never read a whole one of those things.) And I really do urge those of you also fond of the odd duvet half-day to reclaim your sleep debt in a similar manner. That way, we will have paved the path to payback sleep for truly tired mothers such as Jessie. Oh go on. Snuggle down in sisterhood. Sam Wilson is the Editor-in-Chief of Women24, Parent24 and Food24. She’s writing this from her bed on a chilly Saturday morning, while waiting for some tea.
family marketplace
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August 2011
magazine durban
PHOTOGRAPH: Andreas SpÄth
late on weekends, and getting her children to bring her breakfast.