Child Magazine | Durban Dec/Jan 2013

D U R B A N ’ S

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

p a r e n t s

the TV

debate on or off?

safety tips for the pool, home and beyond

slow it down choosing a life in the country

happyholidays bumper dec/jan ‘what’s on’

www.childmag.co.za

Dec 2012 / Jan 2013

free

44

health

ways to give from the heart

education

entertainment

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

On my way home from work recently, I watched as a Big Issue vendor helped an elderly woman cross the road. The wind was howling, and the old lady, stiff with arthritis, was making dangerously slow progress amid rush-hour traffic. Seeing this, the vendor abandoned at least 20 potential customers to perform a simple act of kindness. They exchanged no words when they eventually reached the other side of the road. She reached out her hand to steady herself on a building and catching her breath, she lifted her head, and smiled up at the vendor.

With just a simple nod of acknowledgment, he returned to his post, seemingly unaware of how much easier he had made her day, and at the same time, enriched mine.

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 • capetown@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway

Art Designers Nikki-leigh Piper • nikki@childmag.co.za Alys Suter • studio2@childmag.co.za Mariette Barkhuizen • studio@childmag.co.za Mark Vincer • studio3@childmag.co.za

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

Client Relations PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

Lisa Waterloo • waterloo@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation

And so, as I head into the often frantic festive season, there is only one item on my wish list: it is the gift of kindness that I am most hoping to give and receive this year. This lasting, but often underrated gesture has the power to change not only the quality of our lives, but the actual lives of others.

Here’s wishing you a wonderful, family-filled end of year and a rejuvenated 2013.

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

Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

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

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

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Durban’s Child magazine TM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: 1st Floor, MB House, 641 Peter Mokaba Road, Overport, 4091. Tel: 031 209 2200, fax: 031 207 3429, email: info@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for 11 issues) cost R165, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by Paarl Web. Copyright subsists in all work published in Durban’s Child magazine TM . We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles, and other editorial content, are accurate and balanced, but cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or inconvenience that may arise from reading them.

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

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All our magazines are printed on recycled paper.

December 2012 / January 2013

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contents december and january 2013

22

upfront 3

a note from lisa

5 over to you readers respond

features

health

12 raising a vegetarian

9

fever blisters are contagious and unsightly, but they can be treated, says Marina Zietsman

lynis Horning finds out that even G babies and pregnant women can thrive with a meat-free lifestyle

14 cookout

ake the most of the warmer weather m with these outdoor recipes from Christine Phillips

16 stop to smell the roses

s wapping the city for a slower, simpler life has its ups and downs, says Lucille Kemp

18 the sun always shines on tv Cath Jenkin and Christina Castle consider the pros and cons of letting your child watch the box 20 safety first

Child magazine offers 10 smart tips for home and away

that tingle you have

regulars 6 wins 8 upfront with paul

ave you heard the one about the h child who couldn’t laugh? Paul Kerton says humour is an important part of family life

10 best for baby – the crying game

most parents fear colic, but there are things you can do to make your baby more comfortable, says Anél Lewis

22 resource – presents from the heart

Child magazine suggests creative gift ideas for children of all ages

24 a good read

new books for the whole family

26 what’s on in december/january 34 finishing touch

12

nél Lewis finds that not even the A cat is safe when there are children in the house

classified ads 33 let’s party 34 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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December 2012 / January 2013

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

kinder.co.za Photograph: Romi Stern supernovacm.co.za

Siri Stafford Getty Images Gallo Images

shutterstock.com

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letters

over to you back to basics I want to say thank you so much for this magazine. I am a young mom and have found that your publication has helped me a lot. In response to the article “bottoms up” (November 2012 issue): I have a daughter who is now two years old. When she was about eight months old, she developed a rash from an allergic reaction to antibiotics. Her poor bottom was so damaged that it barely had any skin on it. It bled and she cried whenever she sat down or got into the bath. This lasted for three months. I spent thousands on recommended creams and lotions. Eventually a doctor told me to paint raw egg white on the affected area, as it is high in protein. Desperate, I followed his instruction, and one week later the rash had cleared. Now, whenever I see a rash starting, I get out the paintbrush and an egg.

This has saved me a lot of money and my daughter’s bottom.

Avalon Klein

technology not available to everyone Regarding your article “swipe type learn” (November 2012 issue), on the use of technology in the classroom, the schools mentioned are attended by a privileged few children whose parents can afford the astronomical school fees and the purchasing of these expensive gadgets. While this is indeed the way the world is going, it is only a very limited number of children who are able to be educated in this manner. For the average child in South

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Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters or comments to marina@childmag.co.za or PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010.

Africa, this is far beyond their reach. Surely it should be the democratic right of each child to be given the chance to use technology, not just the wealthy, overindulged and spoilt rich children?

Makes you think: the gap between rich and poor will continue to grow, giving people who have never had to work for anything yet another added advantage over the rest.

Josie Child magazine asked Michelle Lissoos, managing director of Think Ahead, a company specialising in the integration of technology into teaching and learning, to respond: Thank you for your feedback. Our experience has in fact been the opposite. We have seen the iPad being used as an educational tool to increase the access to technology and improve the digital literacy of a broader range of schools across South Africa.

With its mobility, lack of need for additional infrastructure, such as a computer laboratory, and comparatively lower cost in terms of access to content and usability, we have seen the iPad (and other types of computer devices) being adopted by schools and teachers that previously had no access to technology or resources such as science labs or libraries. Our programme, iSchoolAfrica, focuses on increasing this accessibility. Through our public and private partnerships, we can see how technology has worked as a catalyst for narrowing the divide.

We reserve the right to edit and shorten submitted letters. The opinions reflected here are those of our readers and are not necessarily held by Hunter House Publishing.

Post a comment online at childmag.co.za

December 2012 / January 2013

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wins

giveaways

in december and january fashionable fun

back to school goodies

Jam Clothing is committed to delivering high quality fashion at the best value. Their brand is fun, stylish and versatile. In store, you’ll find a wide range of international and local clothing labels for people of different ages and backgrounds.

Contact Jam HQ: 031 303 9670 or visit jamclothing.co.za Four readers stand a chance to each win a Jam Clothing voucher, valued at R500. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-dbn and use the code “Jam DBN”. Your details will be made available to Jam Clothing.

Cartoon Network brings children a comedy-packed line-up, including The Amazing World of Gumball about a 12-year-old cat with a flair for misadventure. Find video clips, wallpapers and games online. Watch the series on DStv channel 301 or visit cartoonnetworkafrica.com/gumball Three readers stand a chance to each win a Cartoon Network hamper of goodies for school, including a USB flash drive, backpack, T-shirt, Star Wars watch, Rubik’s cube key ring, notepad and sets of badges, stickers, coloured pens and crayons, all valued at R844. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-dbn and use the code “Cartoon Network DBN”.

to enter simply visit childmag.co.za

congratulations to our October winners Colin Bouwer who wins a Think Toys hamper, including Dantoy sets and SES clay sets; Sue Carruthers and Tracey Cotton who each win a Calpol hamper, including a Baby City voucher; Hajira Alarakhia who wins a two-night stay for two people at Shamwari

or post your entry to PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Entries close 31 January 2013. Only one entry per reader.

For full terms and conditions of giveaways please see “Competition Rules” on our website childmag.co.za

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December 2012 / January 2013

Game Reserve; and Lindie Allison who wins four audio books from The Listeners’ Library.

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December 2012 / January 2013

7

upfront with paul

laugh out loud Laughter really is the best medicine when it comes to your child’s health and

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

i

t makes me die laughing; okay, it raises a wry smile, when I see young children going through the inevitable toilet humour stage we all do. Anything to do with bottoms or farts, or an extended lexicon of embarrassing but normal bodily functions – mostly those in the nether regions – causes them to double up in wild hysterics. I reluctantly bought Sabina a whoopee cushion about two years ago and instantly regretted it. How can something so ridiculous and irritating bring so much pleasure? Luckily she grew out of it. Toilet humour gets slightly tedious when they are still doing it at 21, but hey, each to their own.

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December 2012 / January 2013

A great sense of humour, or GSOH as the personals prefer it, is an essential tool that helps to get us through the rigours of life, whether as a parent or a child.

Think of the gallows humour of the soldier dodging bullets on the front line, “always look on the bright side”, “laughter is the best medicine” and all that. Some of us have a GSOH, some don’t; some think they do but don’t and some people’s wit is so dry that it flies over everybody’s heads.

Others have a sense of humour deemed so weird or dark, that an audience sits there aghast, asking, “Do you really think that’s funny?” As a test, try this, one of the top five funniest jokes of all time: “I said to the

gym instructor, ‘Can you teach me to do the splits?’ He said, ‘How flexible are you?’

I said, ‘I can’t make Tuesdays.’”

No matter what type of humour you have, people will adapt given time. The fact that you and your child have one is critical, and the sound of genuine laughter is music to a parent’s ears as it’s a sure sign that your child is happy, relaxed, well-balanced and socially connected. Basically, if you can’t laugh, there’s something slightly wrong. While psychologists used to poohpooh the idea that there was any scientific correlation between laughter and an individual’s health and development, they changed their tune radically 20 years ago and have been having a laugh ever since.

In adults, a deficient sense of humour can signal a variety of disorders such as schizophrenia, autism and Asperger’s syndrome, and humour offers new insights

into the nature of those conditions.

“Humour sets you up to understand that people can do things wrong and intend them to be wrong,” says UK psychologist Merideth Gattis. “That’s an easy entry into duality, the idea that an action can mean more than one thing – a very difficult concept for young children to grasp.”

Children generally go through various stages starting with peekaboo baby stuff, through to toilet humour and slapstick, which is why children love clowns and those home video shows where people fall off trampolines. Then comes the joke telling – “knock, knock...” – that, apart from anything else, is more important for the social interaction than the humour given that you can’t tell a joke to yourself. If you do, please stop reading this column now and seek help.

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

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PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

development, says PAUL KERTON.

health

that tingle you have Fever blisters are common, but most people don’t realise how contagious they are. By Marina Zietsman

t

hey are unsightly, sore and highly contagious – cold sores, sometimes called fever blisters, are groups of small blisters on the lip and around the mouth. They are filled with liquid and can be very painful. After a few days they scab over, and will then take up to two weeks to heal. More than one cold sore may appear on the face at any time. They can also be found in the mouth, although this is less common.

may be asymptomatic (have no symptoms at all) or a child may show signs of a fever and fatigue with multiple painful ulcers on the lips and tongue. Symptomatic first infections usually spontaneously subside after about 10 days, though it may take up to six weeks to heal completely.”

Recurrent attacks of the virus give rise to what we call fever blisters, says Rabinowitz. These infections usually “crust” within four days and heal completely within 10 days.

how you get them

gone, but not for good

It is the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that causes cold sores, and the most common cause of these sores around the mouth is the herpes simplex virus type 1, or HSV-1. It’s a cousin of herpes simplex type 2, which causes the sexuallytransmitted disease, genital herpes. Most people are first infected with HSV-1 before they are 10 years old. Dr Debbie Rabinowitz, a general practitioner at The Wellness Station in Cape Town, explains: “It is passed from person to person, either directly through kissing and skin contact or indirectly by drinking from the same cup or using the same utensils.”

Once contamination has occurred, the virus hides in nerve cells, where it remains dormant until something causes it to flare up. When the virus is activated, it travels back to the skin and there may be a tingling or burning sensation before there are any other visible signs.

Rabinowitz says, “During the first (primary) infection a child

There is no cure for fever blisters, and Rabinowitz points out the following which can precipitate them: colds, fever, stress (mental and emotional), sun exposure and low immunity, but they can flare up for no known reason. “They tend to be a lifelong condition,” says Rabinowitz. Most sores will go away without treatment, but medicines may reduce the duration of the blisters. Topical antiviral creams can ease the pain and itching of recurrent fever blisters and speed up the healing time, if applied early enough. She adds that these medicines have little effect if started once the blisters are already present. Oral antiviral agents are available by prescription and are used in specific cases only.

Dr Kerri Sacks, a homeopathic practitioner in Joburg, suggests the following supplements, “Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps the body to fight the virus.

L-lysine has anti-viral properties and helps fight the herpes

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virus.” A vitamin B complex supplement is important for sufferers who lead stressful lifestyles. Sacks says there are homeopathic remedies, which can also be very effective, but should symptoms persist, it’s best to consult your homeopathic practitioner for a specific remedy. Rabinowitz suggests you consult your doctor if the fever blisters make it difficult to eat or speak or if they take longer than a week to heal.

keep them at bay • I f your child has open or weeping fever blisters, many crèches would prefer you to keep her at home until the blisters have healed and they are no longer contagious. The weeping stage is the most contagious.

• Encourage frequent handwashing.

• Do not share utensils or cups with a person who has a fever blister.

• Do not kiss someone with a fever blister.

• It is a good idea to clean children’s toys regularly with disinfectant.

• A good sunscreen may prevent the recurrence of fever blisters precipitated by sun exposure. *Courtesy of Dr Debbie Rabinowitz

December 2012 / January 2013

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best for baby

the

crying game

We all know that babies cry, but could that incessant wailing be a sign of colic?

ANÉL LEWIS finds out.

t

he term “colic” is enough to strike fear into the hearts of most new parents. But, does the condition really exist, or is it just a convenient way of referring to prolonged bouts of crying? Cape Town-based paediatrician Dr Claudia Gray says the term is used “rather broadly” by doctors to refer to excessive crying for no apparent reason, in an otherwise healthy infant. She suggests the “rule of three” to define colic: does the crying last more than three hours, occur for more than three days a week and persist for more than three weeks?

and paediatric medicine. Gray says there are “many theories” about the causes of colic, but common factors may include one or more of the following: immaturity of the baby’s gut, abnormal bowel movements, trapped wind, a disturbance in the bacteria of the gut, reflux of stomach contents into the baby’s oesophagus, feeding difficulties, which may include over- or underfeeding and swallowed air, exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy and after birth, or an allergy to cow’s milk protein. Lactose intolerance may also play a minor role.

Gray adds that a baby’s hypersensitivity to environmental stimuli and any family

Some may say it does not exist, and this could be due to the fact that colic is a collection of symptoms, rather than a condition.

Gray says colic presents in as many as 40 percent of babies. Caesarean babies are no more at risk than those born naturally and there isn’t any difference between breast-fed and formula-fed babies, or those born prematurely. It may run in the family though, and it seems to be more common in Caucasian babies.

possible causes While some may argue that there is no such thing as colic, the parent of an infant who cries nonstop will beg to differ. “Some may say it does not exist, and this could be due to the fact that colic is a collection of symptoms, rather than a condition,” explains Dr Lauren Forbes, a Pretoriabased chiropractor specialising in family

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December 2012 / January 2013

stress or emotional tension experienced during pregnancy may contribute to the symptoms.

identify that cry Gray says parental expectations or perceptions “certainly” play a role in the definition of a child as suffering from colic.

“It is important for parents to understand a ‘normal’ pattern of crying. All children cry more during the first three months.” Colic, however, is behaviour that goes beyond what is considered normal: persistent and excessive crying that is distressing for the baby and the parents. “The crying is more intense and high-pitched than normal with a ‘piercing’ or ‘grating’ quality.”

Forbes says a colicky baby may present with legs flexed against the abdomen, magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

no discrimination

tensed abdominal muscles and clenched fists. Some babies arch themselves backwards. The unexplained crying will usually start from about three weeks, will peak at two months and should subside between three and six months. Gray says the crying episodes usually begin abruptly, often clustering in the evening.

colic survival kit Your baby needs to be examined to rule out any other causes of pain and irritability, such as an infection or a fracture. The symptoms then need to be managed, and Gray says children will respond differently, depending on the factors causing their colic. She suggests the following: • Make use of friends and family who offer to help. Incessant crying can try a parent’s patience. Take a quick break, rather than running the risk of harming your baby should you reach the end of your tether.

• Bottle-fed babies may need an anti-colic bottle, or will benefit from drinking in a more upright position.

In cases of severe colic, your doctor may suggest changing your baby’s formula to rule out a possible reaction to cow’s milk protein, especially if there are other signs, such as eczema or growth failure.

• Empty one breast completely when breast-feeding to reduce the intake of lactose from the foremilk, or milk released at the start of the feed. Limit your dairy and caffeine intake for a week, after discussion with your health practitioner, to see if your baby’s symptoms subside. There is not much evidence for avoidance of other magazine durban

allergenic foods, such as wheat or nuts, so it is not advisable to go on a highly restrictive diet.

• Carry your baby during crying spells.

Regular motion, in a car or a safe baby swing, may also help.

• Try a warm bath or a soothing baby massage. White noise, such as the sound of a washing machine, may help your baby settle.

• If there are signs of possible reflux, such as excessive vomiting, a refusal to feed or arching of the back, your doctor may consider a trial of antacid medication.

• Use antispasmodics, popular colic mixtures and homeopathic medications sparingly, as they may have side effects.

• Forbes says chiropractic care has shown to be a “highly successful” treatment option and, according to some studies, has shown significantly better results than other treatments.

Chiropractic care is a “conservative, gentle and natural” option for treating colic. Specific and gentle pressure, much like that used to check the ripeness of an avocado pear, is applied to the baby’s back and neck. There are also baby massage techniques that facilitate digestion and aid relaxation. This strengthens the bond between mother and baby, as the stress of trying to soothe an unsettled baby often interferes with mother-baby bonding and can increase the risk of postpartum depression.

Gray adds that parents need to be reassured that the colic is not a result of their parenting abilities. It will eventually be outgrown and your child will not experience any long-term harm.

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nutrition

raising a vegetarian With many parents opting for meat-free diets, for themselves and their children, there are concerns about possible nutritional

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December 2012 / January 2013

from the start It was only when we chose to have children that I had doubts. Like many vegetarian parents-to-be, we were confronted by questions from the future grandparents and other concerned omnivores in our circle. Could we really be sure our precious progeny would have all the protein, iron and other nutrients usually associated with meat, which they needed to be healthy and smart? Today, if we didn’t have two robust teenage sons as reassurance, we’d have a slew of health studies and recommended nutritional guidelines to back up our decision. A study at Loma Linda University in California showed that vegetarians live some seven years longer than meateaters, and vegans, 15 years longer. The findings were confirmed by the China-Cornell-Oxford Project, the most extensive 20-year study on diet and health to date, which found that Chinese people, who eat the least fat

and animal produce, run the lowest risk of cancer, heart attack and other chronic degenerative diseases. If this is not convincing enough, a UK study that tracked 6 000 vegetarians and 5 000 meat-eaters for 12 years found the vegetarians were 40 percent less likely to die from cancer in that time, and 20 percent less likely to die from other diseases. A study by the University of California has even found that children on a vegetarian diet grew taller than meat-eating children, which is no surprise, because my eldest stands 1,8m tall in his socks.

nutritional benefits South African dieticians are equally positive about the benefits of vegetarianism. Berna Harmse, president of the Association for Dietetics in South Africa (Adsa), says the advantages include “a lower intake of cholesterol and saturated fats, and a higher intake of fruit, vegetables

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

a

vegetarian diet is the considered choice for many parents and their children these days. Independent research firm Harris Interactive reports that the number of vegetarian youth in the United States has increased by 70 percent in the past few years, and there are similar trends in South Africa too. This is attributed to growing environmental and animal welfare awareness and evidence of the health benefits. It was more of a knee jerk emotional reaction that prompted me to drop meat. As a fledgling reporter I covered a news story about a truck full of sheep that had overturned on a freeway. “They’re headed for the abattoir anyway,” quipped the photographer, as he snapped the bleating survivors. But face to woolly face with what I, too, would normally have considered lunch, I balked. My partner, a longtime vegetarian, said nothing when I suddenly embraced his regimen of dense veggie and legume soups, and salads with nuts, seeds and cheese.

deficiencies. GLYNIS HORNING seeks advice.

and fibre, which in turn results in eating fewer sweet and salty snacks and fast foods”. She adds, “Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and cancer.” The only possible disadvantage to being a vegetarian or raising one, Harmse says, could be the planning, purchasing and preparing of the food needed to maintain an adequate diet. “Although there is much more variety available in the shops and markets these days, it can still be a bit more time-consuming.” In response to fears of deficiencies during vulnerable periods such as pregnancy, infancy and adolescence, she says, “Current nutritional thinking is that following a properly planned vegetarian diet can be beneficial for all stages of life, including these.

There is no cause for concern if a variety of foods

children grow. “This might include iron, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium and omega-3 or flax oil,” says Ivison. “It would need to be assessed individually, as many foods are already supplemented with these vitamins and minerals.”

Parents of vegan children, who eat no animal produce, need to plan their diets particularly carefully, preferably in consultation with a dietician.

personally speaking Except for vitamin B12 and a folic acid supplement, which is recommended for most pregnant moms, I ate our usual lactoovo-vegetarian fare through a picture-perfect pregnancy, and produced a beautiful son who I breast-fed for 18 months, introducing him to rice cereal and our foods from six months.

Three years later I repeated the routine with his brother. Both

Studies have shown that vegetarians have a lower risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and cancer. are consumed to ensure adequate intake.” Healthy, full-term babies can meet all their iron requirements with breast milk or iron-fortified soy formula until they are four to six months old, though vegan mothers may require iron supplements. After that, babies will need some extra dietary iron, which is readily supplied by iron-fortified rice cereal. For a nutritional guide, visit nutripaeds.co.za/vegetarian-diets/ To play it safe, Harmse and fellow Adsa dietician Dianne Ivison suggest possible supplementation as vegetarian

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are now healthy, high-achieving teenagers and, though we have left the choice entirely with them, avid vegetarians. As the younger wrote recently in a school project, “I’m meat-free for my health and for the planet.” Tammy Fry, 31, of Durban, shares those concerns and will be passing them on to her sons Josh, four, and Kai, who is just six months. “I stopped eating meat when I was three,” says the marketing director for Fry Group Foods, and driver of South Africa’s Meatless Monday campaign. “My mom was vegetarian, but didn’t set out to influence us. She just answered our questions

honestly, which I think lots of adults don’t do, perhaps because they don’t want to think through the answers themselves,” says Tammy.

Her two younger sisters joined her and when their father, in construction at the time, was contracted to build a piggery, “seeing it in operation was the final push to join us”. But Wally Fry missed the taste and texture of meat.

He started experimenting in the kitchen, and ended up launching a family business developing vegan food that tasted like meat and was packed with protein.

Today all the Frys are vegetarian “and fighting fit”.

Tammy, who is now largely vegan, represented the national karate team for more than 10 years. She and her father are fifth dans, and her mom and sisters are third dans.

“We’ve all got masses of energy,” she grins. “I breast-fed both my boys, and started Josh on rice cereal, organic fruit and veggies, soya milk and smoothies, with snacks of soya yoghurt, nuts, beans and cottage cheese.” Other sources of protein now include raw nuts, seeds, legumes, and meat substitutes. “Today meat substitutes range from burger patties and sausages to schnitzels, pies and nuggets, and are great for lunchboxes, braais and visiting friends.”

useful contacts Association for Dietetics SA 011 061 5000, info@adsa.org.za or visit adsa.org.za SA Vegan Society 082 828 5275, info@ vegansociety.co.za or visit vegansociety.org.za Vegetarian Society of SA vegsocsa@mweb.co.za

December 2012 / January 2013

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book extract

cookout When the days get longer and the nights get warmer, there’s nothing better than eating outside around a fire. CHRISTINE PHILLIPS offers

mini veggie burgers This is a great recipe to make with children as they love to get their hands dirty while helping to form the vegetable patties.

• ½ cup oats • plain flour for dusting

1 Cook and drain the lentils.

2 Fry the onions with the vegetable seasoning and garlic until golden brown.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

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December 2012 / January 2013

1 410g tin lentils, rinsed and cooked 2 onions 5ml vegetable seasoning 2 teaspoons crushed garlic 1 410g tin chickpeas, rinsed and cooked olive oil 1 egg 3 tablespoons chopped coriander 2 grated carrots 2 grated baby marrows 1 freshly squeezed lemon 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup stale breadcrumbs

3 Combine the chickpeas, half the lentils,

egg, coriander, carrots, baby marrow, fresh lemon juice and cooked onions in a big bowl.

4 Blend the mixture with a food processor until the chickpeas are broken down.

5 A dd the remainder of the lentils, breadcrumbs and oats. If your mixture is too runny, add more oats.

6 Mix all the ingredients together well, adding salt and pepper to taste.

7 Divide the mixture into small portions and flatten them gently into patties.

Chickpeas are a rich source of iron, calcium, magnesium, fibre and protein.

Lentils are low in cholesterol and sodium. Use lentils to make hummus, a healthy dip for veggies.

8 Toss the patties in flour and place them on a tray.

9 Fry each patty in a little oil for four minutes, or until they are golden brown.

S erve in a roll or in mini pitas with tomato 10 sauce, or plain yoghurt and mint.

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PHOTOGRAPHs / Illustrations: colette baillie / shutterSTOCK.COM

some much-loved recipes that always go down a treat.

all bran & sunflower seed rusks Bake these rusks before you go camping and enjoy them with a cup of tea early in the morning.

toasted sarmies 1 Spread both sides of each slice of bread with butter.

2 Place your choice of filling between two

• • • • • • • •

500g melted butter 500ml maas or soured milk 15ml vanilla essence 6 cups flour 50ml baking powder 5ml salt 1½ cups sugar 3 cups bran flakes lightly crushed

• 1 cup sunflower seeds • ½ cup linseeds

1 Mix the melted butter, maas or soured milk and vanilla essence together.

2 S ift the flour, baking powder and salt together.

3 Mix all the ingredients together well.

4 Place in two greased baking trays and squash down.

5 Bake at 180°C for 45 minutes.

6 Take out and cut into finger biscuits; put back onto the baking tray.

7 Leave in a slightly opened oven to dry out for three hours at 120°C.

slices of bread.

3 Wrap the sandwich in foil and place it on the braai for three minutes a side.

Filling ideas • Cheese and ham • Goat’s cheese and tomato jam • Camembert cheese and caramelised onions • Tuna and mayonnaise • Chicken and mayonnaise • Meatballs and chutney

tip:

Don’t use fresh tomatoes when you make the sandwiches in advance, as the bread will become soggy.

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Sunflower seeds can be eaten as they are or toasted. They are used in different kinds of dishes, such as salads or baked goods. They can also replace nuts in most recipes.

about the book Qualified chef, founder of the Little Cooks Club and mom of three, Christine Phillips, created and published the Timeless Family Food Journal to capture some of the precious moments her family has shared in the kitchen. The beautiful book, packed with useful family recipes, also has space for you to make notes, rate your favourite dishes and paste photographs of your family’s special cooking memories. Christine includes information about the importance of good nutrition and the effect of diet on childhood ailments, homemade baby foods and nutritious snack foods for toddlers, tips for packing healthy, but exciting, lunchboxes and easy meals to cook during the week. To order, contact headoffice@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit tffj.co.za

December 2012 / January 2013

15

our stories

stop to smell the roses Four families went looking for a life beyond the suburban standard and found a richer sense of family and self-fulfillment. By LUCILLE KEMP

a

merican author Charles Bukowski was certainly onto something when he asked how a man could enjoy being awakened by an alarm and fighting traffic to get to a place where “essentially you make lots of money for somebody else and are asked to be grateful for the opportunity to do so”. If you feel as if life has become an endless cycle and you’ve forgotten why you’re doing what you’re doing, you might need to be reminded that we’re living in a time of options. You can find a job with flexible hours or negotiate to work remotely more often; you can innovate, freelance or consult. Earning a living certainly no longer takes place only between the hours of nine and five.

Susie Leblond’s husband needed to be in Mauritius to set up an office there for his IT business. They had been there before, and loved it. “We decided that living on the island for six months while the children are still young would be an exciting adventure, plus my work as a photographer is flexible and seasonal so it was easy to pack up and go.”

Six years ago, a life removed from the rat race beckoned Cape Town-based Catriona Ross. She had a demanding job in

magazine publishing, but she enjoyed it, her friends were close by and she had her book club and belly dancing, but she realized she didn’t handle stress well, and that she actually wanted to be self-employed and

With so many people working online I can imagine more people choosing this lifestyle. change is needed Johanita and Don Whitaker, and their son Aaron, moved from the Bluff in Durban to Underberg in the Drakensberg. Don was unhappy in his job and Johanita sought a close community. “We had been on holiday to Underberg a few times and I fell in love with the peaceful village, so my husband applied for a job and here we are,” she says.

Cape Town-based Heike Allerton and her family lived happily in Hout Bay until the end of last year, but life was busy. “We realized that our children were growing up fast and we were not spending the kind of time with them that we really wanted to. Also, I could not get my daughter into any of the popular southern suburbs schools, even though she had been on a waiting list for four years, and the politics and pressure of many of the mainstream schools did not appeal.” Once they started exploring other options they realized that the town of Greyton ticked all the boxes; from safety and proximity to the city to beautiful and idyllic surrounds.

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December 2012 / January 2013

for life to slow down and mean more. After freelancing for a few years, Catriona was ready to make the move. Just months into looking at places she met David de Villiers, the farmer who would become her husband.

They’ve been married for three years and live on a working fruit farm in Simondium, close to Stellenbosch, with their one-yearold daughter, Nina.

number one consideration Schooling was probably the major factor in determining where the Allertons would stay.

“We discovered Greyton House Village School, which offers an excellent primary school education in a non-pressured environment, and a fully equipped high school is being built.” Heike says that many families send their children to boarding school as weekly boarders in the southern suburbs, Somerset West or Stellenbosch and there are also a number of families who home-school their children.

Johanita says Aaron goes to Underberg Primary where the classes are small and a magazine durban

Samuel and Tyler Allerton in Greyton

respect and love for nature is instilled. “The impact on Aaron has been phenomenal; he has become almost ‘Zen-like’,” muses Johanita. Though Nina is still young, schools are front of mind and Catriona has her eye on Bridge House School in Franschhoek. She has also found good government schools in Paarl with some bilingual options too.

the teething period Life in the slow lane is, of course, not perfect, but it is clear that these families’ gripes are minor and transient. Susie says, “Saying goodbye to much-loved grannies and aunties is really hard for little people who have no concept of time, and they both missed their special Cape Town friends, but were easily distracted by all the new experiences on offer.”

Catriona finds that although different, there are still stresses, but the level is far less. “During harvest season, which can last up to six months, I see very little of David.” Johanita’s biggest complaints are Underberg’s frequent power outages and that you have to drive 111km to get to the nearest dentist.

For Heike it’s the grocery shopping, which requires a 20-minute drive to Hermanus or Caledon.

real change is felt Catriona says her happiness is now defined by experiences, not things and Susie feels the same about her six months on the island. “It was the first time in a long while that I wasn’t distracted by work, unanswered emails, clients, friends or family, and got to be just Mom, who spent hours with her children in the pool or on the beach building sandcastles.”

Village living is life as Johanita has never known it before. “About a month ago, on the day I had to get a few things for Aaron’s birthday the following day, none of the bank ATMs and card machines were working. The store manager came to me and said, ‘Don’t worry Ma’am, magazine durban

take your shopping and come pay for it when we are back online or at your earliest convenience.’ I nearly fell over backwards.”

Susie tells of a standout moment when she took her children to a birthday party on the beach and watched them stare in a mixture of horror and delight as the host’s neighbour made an impromptu show of gutting a 1,2 metre-long dorado right there on the rocks. “My daughter Katie, who before Mauritius didn’t like to get her feet dirty, proudly held the fish’s eyeball and squealed.”

The Allertons’s quality of life is amplified by the distinct seasons. “In spring we see lambs and foals being born and an unbelievable display of flowers. In winter snow is visible on the mountains and fireplaces sizzle and warm the home.” Clean country living clearly has all entranced, as is evident in Johantia’s remarks, “I love that we are all much healthier, that I can walk my dogs at the dam down the road, that my boy can play outside and ride his bike safely because everyone knows everyone, and that people ask how you are because they really are interested.”

Heike shares the sentiment, saying that in Greyton there is an invisible and protective circle of some kind as people watch out for each other. Heike notes there are fewer distractions and less time spent in traffic, which gives children more time to catch tadpoles, ride bikes and build forts. “There are quite a few families who have also made the move out here for similar reasons, showing a collective consciousness and desire to do things in a better, different and simpler way.

With so many people working online I can imagine more people choosing this lifestyle.” Although the Allertons have left the life they once knew, they say they are actually closer now to their loved ones. “We probably spend more quality time with friends and family than we did before as whole weekends are spent with each other.”

December 2012 / January 2013

17

debate

the sun always shines on tv It can be a convenient babysitter, an antidote to a busy day or an entertaining source of news.

CHILD MAGAZINE asks two mothers why they turn the telly on, or off, in their homes.

Turn on by CATH JENKIN

Turn off by CHRISTINA CASTLE

Television time in our house is a family experience. We’re true fans of technology and if my seven-year-old daughter has a question I can’t answer, her first response is always, “Mom, ask Google”. She has been able to learn so much through the use of technology and I am a proud enabler of her digital obsession. We’re the family that plays on computers, tablets and phones.

It is the same with TV. We read a story every night before bedtime, but once the school day is over and her homework is done, we’re quite happy for her to feast her eyes on some televised entertainment. It is through television that she’s learnt about the animal kingdom, watched fascinating documentaries about the pyramids in Giza and enjoyed a little downtime with The Little Mermaid.

I was recently making small talk with a doctor. You know, the sort of conversation you have when you have an hour to kill with someone you don’t know from a hole in the ground. We’d done the standard “how many children have you got?”, “how old are they?” and “where are you from?” kind of stuff. Thinking I’d hit the jackpot of small talk, I said, “Hey, did you watch the Olympics?” “We don’t have a TV,” said the sanctimonious little surgeon. Next.

Actually, he wasn’t sanctimonious at all. I was just feeling guilty knowing my boys had just completed a marathon of TV watching on the weekend. So I consulted another medical professional, my walking mate Victoria Mayer, who also happens to be a psychologist, and off-loaded my guilt about the boys’ screen habits. While she made me feel much better by reminding me that they also spend many hours each week on sports fields; she suggested a few cons to their watching television.

Watch, but with limits. I set guidelines and time limits though, and believe that this principle can and should be applied to any element of parenting. Just as you shouldn’t feed your child too much sugar, you shouldn’t let them watch too much television. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that a child’s “total media time, with entertainment media”, should be limited to no more than one to two hours of quality programming per day, and not at all for children younger than two. Even as a pro-television parent, I agree with this, and that entertainment time should be mostly devoted to interactive and educational content.

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December 2012 / January 2013

TV stifles creativity. Children often battle to come up with something completely new in the playground. TV can certainly influence a child’s play. Instead of just creating make-believe characters, stories or settings, they tend to re-enact what they see on the box. Is this why my 12 year old still refers to himself as the wrestling superstar, John Cena, and me as The Undertaker?

It limits language development. Because TV is a visual medium it naturally relies on visuals at the expense of language. This means children may battle to process information without the visual aid they have become so used to on TV. Not good when we expect them to engage and learn in a school environment where there are no cartoon characters to entertain and distract.

TV is addictive. It’s just too easy to turn it on and sit in front of it for hours, as was the case with the boys’ marathon

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

TV can teach. Educational programming has filled in many of the gaps we haven’t been able to. When my daughter has wanted to learn more about something, we’ve often been able to find television material that presents information to her in an easily understandable format. This allows her to enjoy the learning experience, rather than having it forced upon her. Her school life is busy with homework, extramurals and projects. Even at Grade 1 level, there are various mental demands. She deserves and needs downtime and a cuddle on the couch while we enjoy a family movie.

The occasional babysitter. Yes, the television is an easy babysitter and I know I am guilty of that practice too sometimes. Any parent who claims they haven’t at some point used the television to grab a five-minute break is probably lying. With good guidelines, restricted access to unsuitable content and by making television something we enjoy together, we believe it can have some merits.

Judith Graham, a human development specialist at the University of Maine, says children younger than two should not be watching any television, as most of their learning should be done while playing and interacting with others.

Some screen time may be beneficial for school-going children if it has some educational content. To make TV time more beneficial, she suggests the following: ask your child questions about what is about to happen; turn down the volume when the adverts come on; use the characters from popular TV shows to create stories or draw pictures and question what the characters are doing to encourage your child to form their own opinions or solve problems raised on the show.

Disney Junior has been rated the most popular dedicated preschool channel for the past year. The channel says its programming invites parents to join their children in the experience, while incorporating learning and development themes for children between the ages of two and seven.

South Africa is a co-signee of the Africa Charter on Children’s Broadcasting, which was endorsed in 1997. It states: 1 Children should have programmes of high

Olympics viewing session: swimming turned into cycling, which turned into archery, and then into gymnastics. Six hours later the rugby was on and they had not moved, except to walk to the fridge.

It eats into the precious time you could use to be doing something else. Don’t let the box detract from time that could be spent playing with friends, training for the Olympics, painting a masterpiece or building a Monopoly empire together.

Violent programmes can affect your child’s behaviour. The American Psychiatric Association indicates that children’s programmes can be 50 to 60 times more violent than prime-time shows for adults, and some cartoons average more than 80 violent acts per hour. Former minister of home affairs, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, speaking at the Film and Publications Board’s national forum earlier this year, said studies show that “without doubt”, exposure to television contributes to aggressive behaviour in children.

TV can lead to obesity. A study of teenagers in the Western Cape by UCT’s Research Unit for Exercise Science and Sports found that of the children surveyed, those who watched more than three or four hours of TV a day, had a greater body mass index. Television encourages a more sedentary lifestyle, putting children at risk of obesity and related diseases.

If your children do watch TV, adopt the “everything in moderation” approach.

• Choose educational and age-appropriate programmes.

• Pre-record a variety of appropriate programmes and have them at the ready.

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• Watch TV with them, interact and discuss what it is you are watching. Cartoon Network celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, an achievement made possible partly because it encourages “mutual viewing”, where parents and children enjoy the network’s classic cartoons and more contemporary animation together, says Alan Musa, vice president and general manager of the Middle East and Africa Pan Region for Turner Broadcasting System. Their shows, while entertaining, also contain a simple message for children of all ages.

• Find alternative activities, such as building blocks or a jigsaw puzzle, that allow your child quiet time and enable you to get on with dinner.

• The American Academy of Pediatrics says there should not be a TV in your child’s room and viewing time should be limited.

• Help children to consider advertisements critically. Explain that they are often there to sell us things we don’t really need. Of the three branded Disney TV channels available in this country, only Disney XD is fully commercial. But, as part of its commitment to improving the health of young viewers, all food advertisements must comply with The Walt Disney Company’s nutritional guidelines.

This means children will not be exposed to marketing from companies selling junk food.

• Adhere to the age restrictions on shows and enforce your own if necessary. You can control which channels your child can access, as well as the language settings.

• Be a role model and limit your viewing time.

To download TV game shows to play at home, visit childmag.co.za/content/game-shows

quality, made specifically for them and which do not exploit them at any stage of the production process. These programmes, in addition to entertaining, should allow children to develop physically, mentally and socially to their fullest potential.

2 While recognising that children’s broadcasting will be funded through various mechanisms including advertising, sponsorship and merchandising, children should be protected from commercial exploitation.

3 While endorsing the child’s right to freedom of expression, thought, conscience and religion, and protection against economic exploitation, children must have equitable access to programmes and, whenever possible, to the production of programmes.

4 Children should hear, see and express themselves, their culture, their language and their life experiences, through the electronic media that affirms their sense of self, community and place.

5 Children’s programmes should create opportunities for learning and empowerment to promote and support the child’s right to education and development. Children’s programmes should promote an awareness and appreciation of other cultures in parallel with the child’s own cultural background. To facilitate this there should be ongoing research into the child audience, including the child’s needs and wants.

6 Children’s programmes should be wide-ranging in genre and content, but should not include gratuitous scenes and sounds of violence and sex through any audio or visual medium.

7 Children’s programmes should be aired in regular time slots when children are available to listen and view, and/or be distributed via other widely accessible media or technologies.

8 Sufficient resources, technical, financial and other, must be made available to make these programmes to the highest possible standards.

December 2012 / January 2013

19

fyi

safety first CHILD MAGAZINE suggests 10 smart things you can do to keep your family safe this summer.

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1

Keep children away from braais and fires and keep spray cans away from any sources of heat. The Child Accident Prevention Foundation of Southern Africa says about 230 children die annually of burns because an adult wasn’t watching them.

3

Invest in a good medical kit that includes a hydrogel-based dressing in case of any burns.

Attend a paediatric course and put emergency numbers in your phone and on your fridge.

A child can be dead in half an hour if left in a car, especially on a hot day, says Gary Ronald of the Automobile Association. Childsafe South Africa reports that on days when the temperature is around 32°C, it can reach 43°C in a parked car within just 90 seconds and 54,4°C within 10 minutes. Babies especially lose moisture rapidly, and in large quantities, and will become severely dehydrated. Don’t think that leaving a window open or parking in the shade will help. Rather don’t leave your child in the car.

4

Run cold water over affected areas if the burn is minor. Never put butter, petroleum jelly or any other creams onto a burn. For deep white burns, cover the area with a sheet and seek immediate medical attention. Wash chemical burns under flowing water and get medical help.

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December 2012 / January 2013

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

No single barrier is foolproof when it comes to prevent drowning accidents, so it is best to rely on a number of layers of safety, says Daan den Hollander, consultant trauma surgeon and regional director of Childsafe KZN. Combine various safety measures such as adult supervision, a cover for when the pool is not in use and a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate.

6

Make sure your pool’s drain is protected with a dome-shaped cap, a safety vacuum release system or by marking the off switch on the pool pump. Entrapment occurs when a child’s hair or part of their body gets caught in the drain.

7

As a passer-by, you have the right to get involved if you see a child locked in a blazing hot car. Gary says call for help from the police and medics, as you have no idea of how long the child has been in the vehicle. Break a window away from the child and place them outside the car in a shady or cool place.

8

Riding an escalator barefoot is a no-no, but clunky, rubber-soled footwear can also be risky. Avoid using an escalator if you are carrying a child and don’t attempt to push a pram onto one; rather take the elevator. If you do use one with a small child, make sure to hold their hand and don’t allow them to sit or play on the escalator.

9

Escalators can be dangerous if not used properly. Avoid potential escalator hazards by standing in the centre of the stair, away from the sides. Stay clear of the pinch areas and be extra careful to step over the comb plate when getting on or off.

Do not allow children who can’t swim near a pool unless they are supervised. Touch supervision means that the child should be within arm’s reach of their caregiver, whose only focus should be on the child.

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Experienced swimming teacher Lee-Anne McQueen has published a Swim Savvy I can swim! (swimsavvy.co.za) progress journal for children and parents. The handy journal includes water safety rules, such as to never swim without an adult watching, to never push others in or around the water and to avoid running around the slippery edges of the pool.

There’s also advice for getting in and out of the pool safely. The water safety checklist for parents says: know where your children are at all times when they’re near water; make sure the pool is covered if not in use and that the gate is closed properly; take turns watching the children, keep children within your reach at all times in the water, don’t take your eyes off children at all if there is water, and this includes a pond or even the bath and triple check the water area when you leave to make sure that no children have been left behind or have slipped into the water.

Handy safety tip for your child: if you feel as if you are getting into trouble and can’t reach the side of the pool, don’t be afraid, just be a star. Float like a starfish and shout for help.

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December 2012 / January 2013

21

resource

presents from the

heart

As Mother Teresa said, “It’s not about how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.” Child magazine offers a selection of gift concepts that will delight children of all ages.

Cool cars Cars of all shapes and speeds will be appreciated, but the most popular are those that your child will “rev” and release for hours.

I want to ride my bicycle A tricycle is likely to be the first mode of real wheels for your toddler as they master the art of peddling.

Then they will move onto a bicycle, balance bike, scooter or electric ride-on.

Wagons These can be used to load toys, wooden blocks and other educational items.

Push and pull toys Items that respond to a child’s movement will be engaging and will form part of your toddler’s first physical play.

Remote-controlled cars or an electric racetrack These gifts will quickly take over your living area and probably have you wondering when they are going to be packed away, but they will provide hours of fun.

Steering wheels Brightly-coloured steering wheels that imitate the sound of car horns, engines and car radios let your little one make believe they can drive a car, just like you.

Crawl, baby Toys that move, roll or slide away from your baby will encourage them to crawl.

Not just for acrobatic acts A unicycle is a fun alternative to the bicycle, and will improve your child’s core strength and balance.

Boards of all shapes Skateboards, carver boards and snakeboards will be a hit with your older child.

Water wheels Bath toys with wheels, gear wheels and cogs will keep budding engineers entertained.

gifts with words Alphabet lettering with a twist Younger children will enjoy playing with letters that can be stuck onto the wet bathroom wall.

Wooden alphabet blocks can also be used to make up words, as a décor item.

First edition books or collectors’ sets If your child is an avid reader and has a favourite author, he will love this present.

Journal Get your child a special book or diary where they can record their thoughts, dreams and memories.

Board games Have some old-fashioned fun with traditional board games that involve making words or guessing the names of things.

Poster perfect A selection of passages from the classics can be designed to form an artistic poster for your child’s bedroom wall.

Fridge poetry Play with magnetic words or letters to create phrases and sentences. Magnets are only suitable for older children.

gifts that make a noise Musical instruments Toddlers love tinkering on anything that makes music and noise. Babies can make their first foray into the world of music with rattles, wooden musical instruments (flutes) and even a tambourine. As children get older, they will try their hand at a keyboard, “electric” guitar and drums.

Music player What preteen doesn’t want an MP3 player? This is great for long road trips.

Singing teddy Toddlers love stuffed toys because they’re soft and warm and are used to cuddle up to at bedtime. Those that are interactive and sing a lullaby as well will be a great comfort.

Toy phone Your children are probably fascinated with your cellphone, so they will enjoy making their own “calls” to imaginary friends on their own device. You can get big, colourful phones for younger

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December 2012 / January 2013

children or play-play cellphones for the more discerning child.

Walkie-talkies These provide a nifty way for siblings to communicate, and are definitely a step up from the old tin can variety today’s parents used to make.

Get musical There are various CDs you can get for children of all ages, from lullabies for babies to nursery rhymes and popular songs for older children. Look out for instrumental rock songs that have been turned into lullabies.

Baby toys that rattle, sing and chime These “musical” companions will have pride of place in the cot, car seat or the pram.

Work toys A pounding bench or noisy hammer set will keep young handymen, and women, occupied for hours.

gifts that keep on giving Quality time Book some bonding time with your child. It could mean a mom-anddaughter pamper session or a dad-andson trip away together.

Start a savings account for your child It will teach them the value of money and how to manage their savings.

Monthly reads Take out a magazine subscription for a title that interests your child.

Pets, fluffy or scaled A pet teaches your child responsibility and one of the four-legged variety can become a loyal companion. Just remember that this gift needs constant care and attention.

Start a time capsule Treasure your child’s achievements, art projects, school assignments and other creations.

Work on building a collection with your child It could be stamps, glass bottles, miniature cars, stickers or figurines of popular cartoon characters.

Give back Get your child to help you collect items you can donate to a charity or an organisation, or spend time volunteering.

Hobby presents We’re thinking a fishing rod and hat; a knit pack of cashmere wool and thick wooden knitting needles; a green finger set or an art set comprising a canvas, easel, paints, jars and an apron.

Library card Take your child to get a library card and spend some time in the children’s section with them poring over different books, choosing the ones you’re going to take home.

Tickets Theatre and concert tickets to your child’s favourite band or show will leave a lasting impression.

All access A membership card or access card to a theme park or activity centre.

Open doors A solid education will put your children in good stead to pursue their career goals. Invest in your child’s future by opening an educational policy or fund.

In a galaxy far, far away A telescope will open your child’s mind to the possibility of worlds beyond ours and allow them to track shooting stars and planets.

Young entrepreneur If your child has an idea for a small business, encourage them to make it happen by offering some startup capital. Also help them to set it up and get them literature on the subject.

gifts that inspire creativity Costume treasure chest This is another of those gifts that is likely to change hands for a few generations. Fill it with a few basic items, so that when they lift the lid they are able to don wings, princess dresses, superhero costumes, cowboy hats, masks and more. Over time, add props such as face paints, wands and crowns, costume jewellery and feather boas.

Finger puppets These can be bought ready-to-use from a toy shop, but it’s more fun to make your own.

Kits Sets or kits for making cupcakes, sushi, magic or mosaics may spark a new hobby, or a possible career path.

Puzzles From five-piece wooden sets to intricate designs of thousands of pieces, puzzles are a wonderful way of keeping your child busy. It also teaches important skills that will help with reading, maths and problem-solving.

Room refurbishment pack Wall murals are a fun way to brighten up a room. Get one that charts their growth, or has the alphabet or numbers to add an educational twist.

Green fingers Show them how to weed and plant seed that will eventually grow into beautiful flowers and plants. A garden set, packets of seeds and a few hours a week will instil a lifelong love of nature. magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

gifts with wheels

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December 2012 / January 2013

23

books

a good read for toddlers First Fairy Tales – Snow White, Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears

(Published by Tucker Slingsby Ltd, R45 each) These are the perfect books for little hands to hold, “read” and love. The padded covers and hardboard pages make it easy for small fingers to navigate and the classic stories are told in simple, rhyming text, which is the perfect way to introduce very young children to fairy tales. Big, bright and bold illustrations accompany the stories and there are characters – a butterfly, a little black bird and two little mice – in each book to encourage your toddler to count how often they appear in the story. Why not get the whole series as a gift for aspiring small readers?

My Grandpa

By Marta Altés

ial a spec nship relatio

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R170) This is a stunning picture book debut by exciting new writing and illustrating talent, Marta Altés, for children from the age of two. It deals with the very special relationship between an elderly grandfather and his adoring grandson, offering a unique look at old age through the poignant and beautifully observed experiences of a young bear. “My grandpa is getting old… sometimes he feels alone. But then I come along! When he is with me he smiles. When I am with him, I can fly!” As the pair goes on adventures together, their love for each other grows. This is an excellent gift for a granddad to give to a beloved grandchild.

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December 2012 / January 2013

for preschoolers

for early graders

Nursery Rhymes & Verse from Africa Reworked and illustrated by Liz Mills (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R90) This delightful book follows on the continuing popularity of African Nursery Rhymes, which has been reprinted almost every year since it appeared in 2006.

Nursery rhymes form an essential part of children’s development, teaching them rhythm and rhyme, and word skills, while improving their memory. Liz’s colourful and often humorous illustrations and word imagery will capture the imagination and make reading an activity that children, and their parents or carers, look forward to at bedtime or any other time of the day.

The Big Fat South African Kiddies’ Joke Book (Published by Zebra Press, R120) This is a truly home-grown book for children of all ages, with jokes they can relate to. There are knock-knock jokes, one-liners and old-time classics, short jokes, longer jokes, stupid questions and silly answers. There are animals that can talk, children who outfox grown-ups, jokes about teachers and pupils, sport and computers, the precious (and hilarious) things children say, and much more that will make you laugh out loud, whether you are seven or 70. Some examples of one-line jokes: “How do you greet a frog?

Wart’s up.”

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for preteens and teens Top 10 of Everything 2013

By Caroline Ash (Published by Hamlyn, R230) There are a lot of books on the market that can tell you who is number one, but what about how big the margin is between first and second place or where does fifth come in? Was number 10 really that far off the mark? Top 10 of Everything 2013 answers these questions and many, many more, with brand-new and updated lists and over 7 000 of the most intriguing facts about history, science, sports, music, movies, nature, people and places. And as if that wasn’t enough to quench your thirst for knowledge, this fascinating full-colour book also includes feature spreads that are packed with insightful information and additional lists.

boost your general knowledge

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for us

parenting book

Free Wheeling – Southern Africa’s best multi-day MTB trails

By Fiona McIntosh (Published by Sunbird Publishing, R166) From short, easy, one-night escapes suitable for the whole family, to hard-core mountain adventures that will test even the most experienced, competitive racers, the 34 trails of southern Africa’s best multiday trails and wilderness journeys featured in this book cover the full spectrum of mountain bike tours on offer locally and in neighbouring countries. A guide and support vehicle accompanies most of the tours, meaning that someone else takes care of the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the best that mountain biking offers. Whether you want to ride with big game, along empty beaches, through verdant forest or across barren deserts, you’ll find a trail that suits you, and there are also some specialist trails aimed at birders, gourmands and culture vultures.

Scrumptious – Food for Family and Friends

By Jane-Anne Hobbs (Published by Struik Lifestyle, R260) Creating memorable dishes for family and friends is one of life’s great pleasures: how better to celebrate life and love than to gather at a happy table laden with scrumptious home-cooked food? You don’t need to inspiration be an expert cook to produce heart-warming dishes in the full of flavour. All that’s required is passion, patience kitchen and smart preparation well in advance. Jane-Anne Hobbs has created over 90 original, triple-tested recipes designed to take the fuss out of home entertaining and bring smiles to the faces of the people you love. Whether you’re planning a relaxed get-together over a homely dish of soup, stew or salad, or a lavish spread with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find plenty of inspiring new ideas here, plus top tips for planning and preparing a meal to remember.

Recognising Postnatal Depression – A Handbook for Mothers

By Paula Levin, Zahava Aarons and Andy Taub-Da Costa (Published by Penguin Books, R190) Having a baby is hard for everyone, and for some women it’s a hellish experience.

The journey to motherhood is sometimes clouded with unrealistic expectations and society’s unfair judgement of any woman who isn’t immediately blissfully happy with her new baby. This title is for anyone who is struggling or has struggled on that journey. It offers hope, support and comfort and a clear path out of what may feel like a bewildering or overwhelming situation. Cowritten by a medical doctor, a clinical psychologist and their patient, who is a writer, each author contributes her own personal experience and expertise.

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calendar

what’s on in december and january

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

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

12 wed

special events

27

FUN for children

28

only for parents

31

bump, baby & tot in tow

32

how to help

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SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Catch the Fun A puppet show, magic show and face painting, rolled into one.

Michael Jackson History II This is a musical tribute to the king of pop, Michael Jackson.

Infant Baby Massage Parents and babies can benefit from this supportive environment.

SPCA Tree of Love Make a donation and add your Christmas dedication to the tree.

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December 2012 / January 2013

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / Beauty and the Beast – Val Adamson

Mr Price Rotary Christmas Fantasy Children love the fantasy characters and train rides. Don’t miss the arrival of Father Christmas.

SPECIAL EVENTS

december 2012 1 saturday Christmas Lights drive-through Drop off a toy for the Toy Story campaign. Ends 24 December. Time: 6pm. Venue: Annie’s Busy Beez, 37 Romsey Grove, Ellis Park. Cost: donation of a toy. Contact: 031 564 6592 Happy Valley Christmas Market There are beautiful Christmas crafts, fun children’s activities and delicious treats on sale. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Happy Valley Educentre, 80 Old Main Rd, Kloof. Cost: free entry.

Contact Michelle or Amber: 031 764 6661 Highway Hospice Fête Find plenty of goodies for sale, like clothing, books and Christmas items. Time: 8am. Venue: 59 Locksley Dr, Sherwood. Cost: free entry.

Contact Cheryl: 031 208 6110 SPCA Christmas Bargain Hunt A minimarket with Christmas décor and more.

Time: tbc. Venue: 2 Willowfield Crescent, Springfield Park. Cost: free entry, décor demo R50. For more info: visit spcadbn.org.za World Aids Day Celebration They offer crafts, entertainment, a children’s play area, a yarn exhibition and a plant nursery.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust, 26 Old Main Rd, Hillcrest.

Cost: free entry. Contact Jess: 031 765 5866, marketing@hillaids.org.za or visit hillaids.org.za

7 friday Late night Christmas shopping Take the children, enjoy the festive spirit and get in some Christmas shopping. Ends 21 December. Time: 9am–9pm, every Friday.

Venue: cnr Almond Rd and Kingsway Rd, Warner Beach. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 419 0078 or visit playgym.co.za The Tree of Light When it’s switched on, it lights the Durban skyline. Globes are sold in memory of loved ones. Time: 6pm.

Venue: Jameson Park, Morningside. Cost: globes R30. Contact Heather: 031 208 6110 13–16 December – Scenes from 2011 Dolphins by Starlight

8 saturday Umhlanga Summer Carnival Day and evening activities entertain young and old alike. There are carols on 19 December and a family friendly street party on 22 December. Ends 23 December. Time: varies. Venue: Umhlanga Main Beach and Village. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 312 1281 or visit umhlangatourism.co.za

13 thursday

18 tuesday

Dolphins by Starlight It’s Christmas with a twist, and a leap and a splash. Ends 16 December. Time: 7pm. Venue: Standard Bank Dolphin Stadium, uShaka Marine World.

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

Magical clown show Booking essential.

Time: 11am. Venue: Akimbo Kids, 40 Meadway Rd, Drummond. Cost: entrance for children R20, clown show R25. Contact: 083 612 2742, info@akimbo.co.za or visit akimbo.co.za

11 tuesday

14 friday

22 saturday

Christmas carols Ladysmith Black Mambazo are on stage. Time: 6:30pm.

Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea.

Cost: pre-book R100, at the gate R130, children 8–12 R50. Contact: 031 322 4021 or visit webtickets.co.za Christmas giftwrapping Volunteer your time and help Reach for a Dream wrap Christmas presents. Ends 24 December.

Time: varies. Venue: Gateway Theatre of Shopping and Pick n Pay Hypermarket.

Cost: free to volunteer, presents wrapped for a donation. Contact: 031 566 2220 or prkzn@reachforadream.org.za

Christmas night market Go for lunch, stay for dinner, and find fabulous food from over 40 local stalls. Time: 11am–10pm.

Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, 6 High Grove, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact Nick: 084 505 0113, info@thefoodmarket.co.za or visit thefoodmarket.co.za

Animal Tails II Enjoy plenty of music, dance and sing-alongs, plus some slapstick humour for adults. Ends 22 December.

Time: 11am. Venue: The Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf. Cost: R60, boat rides are extra. Contact Catalina Theatre Box Office: 031 305 6889

5 wednesday Christmas market and Carols by Neonlight Take chairs and food, and dress in white or neon. Christmas shopping available. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: @Tap Community Centre, Mackeurtan Ave, Durban North. Cost: free entry. Contact Jennie: 031 563 0882, 082 497 9350 or glover.jennie@gmail.com

6 thursday Michael Jackson History II A musical tribute to the King of Pop. Ends 6 January.

Time: 8pm, Thursday–Saturday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R250. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

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16 sunday

11 December – Animal Tails II

12 wednesday Mr Price Rotary Christmas Fantasy An evening of fun, with fantasy characters, train rides, face painting, a jumping castle and Father Christmas. Ends 15 December. Time: 5:45pm–8:30pm. Venue: Durban Model Engineers, Hinton Grove, Virginia. Cost: adults R55, children R95. Contact Hilary: 082 556 0299 or visit computicket.com

Annual Christmas market The Shongweni Farmer’s Market gets festive with a colourful range of handmade crafts and Christmas décor, entertainment and good food. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: cnr Kassier Rd and Alverstone Rd, Assagay.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 777 1674, info@shongwenimarket.co.za or visit shongwenimarket.co.za The Blarney Brothers Look forward to a foot-stomping, sing-along party. Time: 6pm. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: R100. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres. co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za

24 monday The Seven Wonders Christmas Eve Show Families enjoy a festive show with songs from seven great artists. Time: 12:30pm, show starts 2pm. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: R145. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za

14 December – Christmas carols

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31 monday The Seven Wonders New Year’s Eve show Once the show is over, count down to 2013. Time: 7:30pm, show starts 9pm.

Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway.

Cost: R340. Contact: 031 566 3045 or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za

january 2013 2 wednesday Moms and daughters pamper day Moms enjoy a manicure and pedicure while daughters get spoilt with nail art.

Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Akimbo Kids, 40 Meadway Rd, Drummond. Cost: entrance for children R20, treatments tbc. Contact: 083 612 2742, info@akimbo.co.za or visit akimbo.co.za

3 thursday The Adventures of Ayanda the Aardvark Join Ayanda in this fun, interactive show.

Ends 8 January. Time: 10am. Venue: Under the Fig Tree Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: R30. Contact: 082 560 7185 or jeanvanelden@gmail.com

7 monday Catch the Fun A puppet adventure story is followed by face painting. Cherry the Clown ends off the show with magic, juggling and an abracaZebra. Ends 12 January. Time: 10am. Venue: Rhumbelow

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December 2012 / January 2013

Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo. Cost: R50. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Annual Affordable Art Show 10 December–19 January. Time: 9am–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–2pm, Saturday.

Venue: artSPACE, 3 Millar Rd, Stamford Hill.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 312 0793 or visit artspace-durban.com Phezulu Village Experience Zulu culture with the Gasa clan and visit the crocodile and snake park. Dancing at 10am, 11:30am, 2pm and 3:30pm. Time: 8am–4:30pm, daily. Venue: Old Main Rd, Botha’s Hill.

Cost: varies. Contact: 031 777 1000 or visit phezulusafaripark.co.za

classes, talks and workshops Children’s Yoga Develops flexibility and coordination. Time: 3:15pm, every Tuesday; 11am, every Saturday. Venue: Centre of Wellbeing, 16 Canberra Ave, Durban North. Cost: R40. Contact Angela: 076 410 1410 or angela@rautenbach.co.za Core 4 Kids Classes build upper body and core muscle strength. For children 6–9 years old. Time: 2pm–2:45pm or 3pm–3:45pm, Monday–Thursday. Venue: Danville Ave, Glenashley. Cost: R70. Contact Michaela: 074 101 2616

24 December – The Seven Wonders Christmas Eve Show

Essay writing course Improve English, Afrikaans and subject essays. Grades 5–7 and 8–12. 10–14 December and 7–11 January. Time: 9am–12pm or 12pm–3pm.

Venue: suite 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Dr, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556 or tracy@ kipumhlanga.co.za Exciting experimenters Attend workshops and see demonstrations about things such as tricky test-tube volcanoes and glow-inthe-dark elephant toothpaste. 8 December– 15 January. Time: varies. Venue: The KZN Science Centre, upper level, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: adults R30, children R35. For more info: visit kznsc.org Get Ready for School programme This is ideal for Grade R learners. Ends 14 December, term starts 14 January. Time:

varies. Venue: suite 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Dr, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies.

Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556 or tracy@kipumhlanga.co.za Learn French and isiZulu Beginners, intermediate and advanced lessons start 21 January. Time: varies. Venue: Alliance Française de Durban, 22 Sutton Crescent, Morningside. Cost: from R55 per hour.

Contact Denise: 031 312 9582, afdbn@ global.co.za or visit alliance.org.za Study skills programme Learn to study smarter. For Grades 5–7 and 8–12.

10–14 December and 7–11 January.

Time: 9am–12pm or 12pm–3pm. Venue: suite 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Dr, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556 or tracy@ kipumhlanga.co.za

magazine durban

family outings Book Fair Find great titles to fill up your Christmas stockings. 4–7 December. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: unit 6, Afriscan Park, 21 Shepstone Rd, New Germany. Cost: free entry. Contact: 031 705 7744, info@ books2you.co.za or visit books2you.co.za Inchanga Choo Choo The steam train runs between Kloof and Inchanga, with a stopover at the Inchanga station and craft market. 9, 16, 17 and 23 December and 6 January. Time: departs 8:30am and 12:30pm.

Venue: Kloof Station, Old Main Rd. Cost: adults R150, children R120. Contact: 082 353 6003 or visit umgenisteamrailway.co.za Moses Mabhida Stadium Fun activities include the Big Swing and Sky Car. Time: varies. Venue: Masabalala Yengwa Ave. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 582 8242 or visit mosesmabhidastadium.co.za uShaka Marine World Find Wet n Wild, Sea World, Dangerous Creatures and more. uShaka Kids World caters for children 2–12 years old. Time: varies. Venue: 1 King Shaka Ave, Point. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 328 8000 or visit ushakmarineworld.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play 1000 Hills Bird Park Meet exotic birds or take a ride on the zip line. Time: 8am–4pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: 1 Clement Stott Rd, Botha’s Hill. Cost: adults R25, children under 10 R15. Contact: 072 927 8242 or visit 1000hillsbirdpark.co.za

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Beach rides Travel through coastal bush and along the beach. Time: 3pm–6pm, Friday–Wednesday. Venue: Durban South, directions sent on confirmation of booking.

Cost: R290–R390. Contact: 084 467 0752, 081 477 9348, horsebeachrides@gmail. com or visit horsebeachrides.co.za Duck and Deck Animal Farm Children can see farmyard animals or ride a pony, while parents enjoy a cup of coffee. Time: 9:30am–4pm, Tuesday–Sunday. Venue: 3 Willow Way, Assagay. Cost: R15. Contact: 031 768 1029 or visit duckanddeck.co.za The Animal Farmyard There are daily milking demonstrations, the chance to

bottle-feed newborn animals, have pony rides and enjoy the foefie slide. Time: 9am–4:30pm, daily; milking 10:30am and 3:30pm. Venue: 3 Lello Rd, Botha’s Hill.

Cost: entry R10, rides R4. Contact: 031 765 2240 or visit animalfarmyard.co.za The Barn Swallows Take a picnic, chairs and binoculars. Time: 4:30pm, daily. Venue: Barn Swallow Site, Mt Moreland, Umdloti.

Cost: R10 donation. Contact Angie: 031 568 1557 or visit barnswallow.co.za

holiday programmes Akimbo Kids holiday activities Find the programme on their Facebook page. 11

10 mon

Club-V holiday camp Activities include art and crafts, colouring-in competitions, games and obstacle courses, and group exercise classes. For 3–13 year olds. 10–14 December. Time: morning and afternoon slots available, Monday–Friday; enquire with your club. Venue: Virgin Active Club V and Club V Max, check the website for a club near you. Cost: free for Virgin Active Club V members. For more info: visit virginactive.co.za

December–11 January. Time: 9am–4pm.

Venue: Akimbo Kids, 40 Meadway Rd, Drummond. Cost: R20 entry for children.

Contact: 031 783 7892 or visit facebook. com/akimbo.kids Artbeat workshops Children 4–10 years old do something new and creative every day. 10–14 December and 7–12 January.

Time: 9am–11am. Venue: shop 7, The Well, Ballito. Cost: R200 per workshop, R800 for the week. Contact: 032 586 3372 or 082 881 9223 or artbeat@mweb.co.za @Tap Community Centre holiday care There are games, stories, creative crafts and children learn about God. For children 4–12 years. 7–14, 18–21 December and 7–11 January. Time: 7:15am–12:30pm or 7:15am–2:30pm. Venue: Mackeurtan Ave, Durban North. Cost: R40 or R50. Contact Hayley: 074 132 3331 or Jerri: 072 259 7918 Bluff Towers Christmas activities Children can make art and crafts and be entertained. 15–25 December. Time: varies. Venue: Tara Rd, Wentworth. Cost: free. Contact Michelle: 072 329 1314 or michellef@primelife.co.za Busyballers holiday clinic Children can take on obstacle courses, races and other age-appropriate games. A jumping castle, slip and slide, and art and crafts also available.

10–14 December. Time: 8am–12pm. Venue: Morningside Sports Club, 132 Hollander Crescent. Cost: R80 per morning. Contact: 083 236 0059, lisa@busyballers.co.za or visit busyballers.co.za

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Mr Funtubbles holiday fun The line-up includes face painting, colouring competitions, balloon modelling, crafts and sand art. For children 3–10 years old. 1 December–15 January. Time: 9am–9pm.

Venue: upper level, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: free entry, activities free, sand art R20 per card. Contact: 031 584 6645 or visit mrfuntubbles.co.za

1 sat

Christmas at La Lucia Santa is visiting. 7–24 December. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Centre Court, La Lucia Mall. Cost: tbc. Contact: 031 562 8420 or visit laluciamall.co.za Christmas at The Crescent Have photos taken with Santa and join in craft activities.

15–23 December; photos 8–9 December.

Giftwrapping in aid of Peace Haven Crisis Care available, 10–24 December. Time: 11am–3pm. Venue: The Crescent, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 2887 or visit thecrescent.co.za Computer holiday workshop You choose how many days children attend.

10–21 December and 7–11 January. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: suite 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Drive, Umhlanga Ridge.

Cost: varies. Contact: 031 566 1110, 082 042 2556, umhlanga@computers4kids. co.za or visit computers4kids.co.za Cooking Kids holiday course Children learn basic cooking skills, baking and bread-making. Preteens 11–12 December; teens 13–14 December. Time: 9am–11am.

Venue: Meryl’s School of Cooking, 1 Wingfield Rd, Kloof. Cost: R380.

Contact Meryl: 031 764 6577, meryl@ merylschoolofcooking.co.za or visit merylschoolofcooking.co.za Drumkidz Djembe drum sessions get children drumming to stories, songs and games. 10–14 and 18–21 December.

Time: varies. Venue: varies. Cost: varies.

Contact: robynne@drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za

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December 2012 / January 2013

Galleria Christmas fun Take pictures with Santa, see circus Santas on stilts and watch a pantomime on ice. 14–24 December. Time: varies. Venue: Galleria, Amanzimtoti. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 904 2233 or visit galleria.co.za Hillcrest Corner A holiday workshop area for children has craft activities, face painting and a jumping castle. 1, 8, 15 and 22 December. Time: varies. Venue: 51 Old Main Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: free. For more info: visit hillcrestcorner.co.za Holiday boot camp This clinic develops your child’s motor skills and enjoyment of physical activity. 12–14 December. Time: 7:30am–2pm. Venue: Boot Camp SA, Giba Valley, Westmead. Cost: day 1 or 2 R225, all 3 days R580. Contact Anlie: 082 782 6432, durban@bootcamp-sa.co.za or visit bootcamp-sa.co.za Holiday craft club Crafts include scrapbooking, making decoupage, metal

10–14 and 18–21 December – Drumkidz

embossing, fabric painting and more. 11, 13, 18, 20 and 21 December and 4, 7 and 8 January. Time: 1pm–4pm. Venue: Imagine That, Manhattan House, cnr Twilight Rd and Equinox Rd, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: R120–R150. Contact: 031 566 3354 Holiday mosaic workshops Children enjoy a hands-on mosaic class. Those under 6 to be accompanied by moms. 11 December–10 January. Time: 9am–11:30am, Tuesday and Thursday. Venue: Just Imagine Mosaics Studio, 50 Haygarth Rd, Kloof.

Cost: R110. Contact Sheila: 031 764 6454, 083 782 7810 or sheila.nichol@gmail.com JB Holiday Club This holiday programme, with loads of fun activities, is run by qualified staff. For children 3–8 years old.

10–21 December. Time: 7:30am–5pm.

Venue: 62 Silverton Rd, Berea. Cost: R80 per day. Contact Lilian: 083 242 1677 or lilianrez@hotmail.com Junior Ranger Camp Find out what it means to be a game ranger. For children 8–13 years old. 10–12 December and 8–10 January. Time: starts 10am. Venue: Gwahumbe Game and Spa, Eston. Cost: R1 350. Contact: 031 781 1082, info@ gwahumbe.co.za or visit gwahumbe.co.za Kandies Kids holiday programme Contact them for a printout of the funfilled programme. 7–14 December. Time: 7am–5:15pm. Venue: 5 Beachway St, Durban North. Cost: R100 per day. Contact Candice: 031 573 2210 or kandiesadmin@ arcap.co.za Kidz Kitchen Fun holiday classes. 10, 12, 14, 19 and 21 December. Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Waterfall. Cost: R100 per class. Contact: 083 653 6801 or visit kidzkitchen.co.za King’s Camps Africa Children 4–17 years old experience over 25 different activities, games and sports. 10–14 December. Time: 8am–4pm. Venue: Highbury Prep School, Highbury Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: from R400.

Contact: 031 100 1011, nick.brushett@ kingsfoundation.org or visit africa. kingscamps.org King’s Cricket An innovative coaching course for children 5–17 years old. 10–14 December. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Highbury Prep School, Highbury Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: from R400. Contact: 031 100 1011, nick.brushett@kingsfoundation. org or visit africa.kingscamps.org

Little Chefs holiday workshops Children have fun cooking. 17–20 December. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: 6 Sackville Place, Durban North. Cost: R100.

Contact Linda: 082 836 9365 Lucky Bean holiday programme A jam-packed holiday programme where children learn a new skill or craft. Ask for the programme to be emailed to you. 11 December–11 January. Time: 9am–4pm.

Venue: 10 Cadmoor Rd, Assagay. Cost: entrance R20, activities R20–R35. Contact: info@luckybean.co or visit luckybean.co Pedalcar rides Children can take a spin around the track. The pedalcar is safe for children 3–8 years old. 10–31 December.

Time: varies. Venue: Westwood Mall, Devon Terrace. Cost: 10 minutes R20.

Contact: 083 683 5151, shirley@pedalcar. co.za or visit pedalcar.co.za Playball holiday clinic Fun play activities for children 3 years and older. 10–14 December. Time: 8am–12pm. Venue: 51A Old Main Rd, Hillcrest. Cost: day R150, week R500. Contact: 031 765 8780, 083 630 5110 or playball@mweb.co.za Sugar Bay holiday camp A fun holiday camp for children 7–17 years old, including over 90 different activities. Camps run from 9 December–12 January. Time: 3pm drop-off. Venue: Zinkwazi Beach, North Coast. Cost: varies. Contact: 032 485 3778, holidays@sugarbay.co.za or visit sugarbay.co.za Umhlanga Holiday Club Activities like a jumping castle, art and crafts and swimming.

Half- and full-day available. For children 18 months–7 years old. 10 December–11 January. Time: 7:15am–5:15pm, Monday– Friday. Venue: 9 Pioneer Close, Prestondale, Umhlanga. Cost: full-day R100, halfday R70. Contact: 074 135 9511 or umhlangaholidayclub@gmail.com

markets Essenwood Market Fresh food, children’s activities and a range of stalls.

Time: 9am–2pm, every Saturday. Venue: Essenwood Rd. Contact: 031 208 1264 or visit essenwoodmarket.com Golden Hours Family Market 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

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3–8 January – The Adventures of Ayanda the Aardvark

I Heart Market Hand- and homemade crafts. 1, 8 and 15 December. Time: 9am– 3pm. Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Contact: thejoyteam@gmail.com Kloof Country Market Find quality products and homemade goods. 1 and 15 December, 7 and 21 January. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: Robyndale Centre, 10 Msenga Rd, Kloof. 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–10:30am, every Saturday.

Venue: cnr Kassier Rd and Alverstone Rd, Assagay. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 777 1674, info@shongwenimarket.co.za or visit shongwenimarket.co.za The Food Market For local produce.

26 January. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: The Hellenic Community Centre, Durban North.

Contact: 084 505 0113, info@thefoodmarket. co.za or visit thefoodmarket.co.za The Litchi Orchard Market Covered market with a children’s playground.

1 and 15 December, 7 and 21 January.

Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Seaforth Ave, Foxhill. Contact: 084 205 6151 or jeremy@ litchiorchard.co.za Wonder Market There’s something for everyone. 2 December and 6 January.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Chris Saunders Park, Gateway. Contact: 079 747 7661, wonder@wondermarket.co.za or visit wondermarket.co.za

Zambezia. But, in this animated adventure movie, he learns that life in the city can be more difficult than surviving in the wild.

28 December. Time: varies. Venue: 3D and other cinemas. Cost: varies. Contact: 0861 246 362 or visit numetro.co.za Animal Tails II Meet old and new characters. 11–22 December. Time: 11am.

Venue: The Catalina Theatre, Wilson’s Wharf. Cost: R60. Contact Catalina Theatre Box Office: 031 305 6889 Beauty and the Beast An enchanting musical tale. 30 November–6 January, the Rotary Club of Durban Thekwini hosts a fundraiser on 9 December. Time: varies.

Venue: Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, UKZN, Glenwood. Cost: R130–R200. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Catch the Fun A puppet adventure story, face painting and magic show. 7–12 January. Time: 10am. Venue: Rhumbelow

on stage and screen Adventures in Zambezia Kai, a highspirited falcon, is frustrated with living in a remote outpost and ventures to the bird city,

magazine durban

Theatre, Cunningham Rd, Umbilo. Cost: R50. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Christmas carols Ladysmith Black Mambazo take to the stage. 14 December.

Time: 6:30pm. Venue: Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: pre-book R100, at the gate R130, children 8–12 R50. Contact: 031 322 4021 or visit webtickets.co.za Dolphins by Starlight The uShaka Dolphins ring in the festive season with Christmas songs. 13–16 December. Time: 7pm.

Venue: Standard Bank Dolphin Stadium, uShaka Marine World. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com The Adventures of Ayanda the Aardvark A fun, interactive show. 3–8 January.

Time: 10am. Venue: Under the Fig Tree Amphitheatre, Durban Botanic Gardens, Berea. Cost: R30. Contact Jean: 082 560 7185 or jeanvanelden@gmail.com The Amazing World of Gumball The Wattersons are back for a second season.

This time the adventures of the energetic, fearless blue cat and his lovable family are more epic than ever. 5 December.

Time: 5:25pm, every Wednesday, 11:40am and 6:45pm, every Saturday, and 5:25pm, every Tuesday. Venue: Cartoon Network, DStv channel 301. For more info: visit cartoonnetworkafrica.com

playtime and story time Books & Books Children’s story time.

Time: 10am, every Saturday. Venue: Shop 42 Kensington Square, 53 Kensington Dr, Durban North. Cost: free. Contact: 031 563 6288 or shop@booksandbooks.co.za 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 at the Durban Society of Model Engineers. 9 and 23 December and 13 and 27 January. Time: 11am–4pm.

Venue: 4 Hinton Grove, Virginia. Cost: R5 per ride. Contact Gerald: 031 205 1089 or 082 569 1383

sport and physical activities Newmarket Stables horse riding lessons

Adventure Kids Swim School Fun, developmental swimming lessons for

children 1–15 years old. Time: varies. Venue: Mount Edgecombe Swimming Pool. Cost: once a week R250 per month, twice a week R350 per month. Contact Dominique: 084 624 5962 or dlzsmythe@gmail.com Newmarket Stables horse riding lessons This riding school and livery yard houses a sand dressage arena, jumping arena and a training-size water jump.

Time: varies, Monday–Saturday. Venue: Newmarket Stables, cnr NMR Ave and Goble Rd, Stamford Hill. Cost: lesson R150.

Contact Hayley: 031 303 1529 or visit newmarketstables.weebly.com Taekwondo Tornados Children get exercise, develop core strength and agility, and have fun. Time: every Wednesday, times vary according to ages.

Venue: Westville Library. Cost: R120 per month. Contact Sam: 082 876 0628 or tkdtornados@gmail.com

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Abstract Art class Paint on canvas, using various techniques. No experience required. Time: 10am–12pm, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or alternate Saturdays. Venue: behind Coastlands On The Ridge Hotel, off Peter Mokaba Rd. Cost: R120. Contact Naadira: 073 223 6565 or nmoola@gmail.com Advice for the New Year A meditation course. 26 December. Time: 11am–3pm. Venue: Maitreya Buddhist Centre, 6 Hamilton Crescent, Gillitts.

Cost: R20. Contact: 071 355 8225 or meditateinhillcrest@gmail.com Expert baking course Learn all you need to know about baking. Book early.

22 January–13 February. Time: 6pm–9pm, every Tuesday and Wednesday. Venue: Gecko Culinary Adventures, 596B Musgrave Rd. Cost: R2 800. Contact Megan: 031 209 4555, megan@geckoschool.co.za or visit geckoschool.co.za Mobile Pilates in Motion One-on-one or group classes in the comfort of your home. Time: varies, Monday–Friday. Venue: Morningside, Durban North or Upper Highway. Cost: varies. Contact Laura-May: 082 443 4533, info@pilatesinmotion.co.za or visit pilatesinmotion.co.za

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calendar Mom’s IT Introductory and advanced computer skills. Ends 13 December. Time: 9am–12pm, Monday and Thursday. Venue: Suite 125 Ridgeton Towers, 6 Aurora Dr, Umhlanga Ridge. Cost: R150 per hour, course R2 900. Contact: 031 566 1110 or visit computers4kids.co.za Pilates Precision Lose weight and strengthen your core. Time: 5:30pm–6:30pm, Tuesday and Thursday. Venue: The School of Modern Montessori, 9 Anthony Dr, Gillitts. Cost: four classes R280, eight classes R480. Contact Sarah: 071 183 4161 or sarahxevans@hotmail.com Soultherapy Pilates Pre- and postnatal Pilates available. Time: varies. Venue: Hillcrest, Monday and Wednesday; Kloof, Tuesday and Thursday. Cost: R50. Contact: 079 677 1060 or karensoultherapy@gmail.com Taekwondo for ladies Develop core strength, exercise and learn self-defence.

Time: 7pm–8pm, every Thursday.

Venue: Westville Library. Cost: R120 per month. Contact Sam: 082 876 0628 or tkdtornados@gmail.com Weight-loss challenge The sixweek course starts 17 or 23 January.

Time: 11am–12pm, every Thursday; 5:30pm–6:30pm, every Wednesday. Venue: Umhlanga Rocks. Cost: R350. Contact Tracy: 082 852 4890 or tracy.mills@telkomsa.net

support groups

support groups

Born Sleeping Parents bereaved by stillbirths, miscarriages or neonatal death can share experiences. Contact: 084 524 1541/2, bornsleeping@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page: Born Sleeping Childhood cancer parent support group Contact Gill: 084 831 3683 or visit choc.org.za Durban Autism support group Informal coffee mornings are held four times a year.

Contact Di: 083 443 8385 or dimaitland@ tiscali.co.za Famsa Contact them for family and relationship counselling. Contact: 031 202 8987 or visit 30 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood.

Hi Hopes Home intervention programme for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Contact: 082 897 1632, dianne.goring@ hihopes.co.za or visit hihopes.co.za Speak Easy For those who stutter, their family and friends. Contact Imraan: 082 786 3718 or visit speakeasy.org.za

Mothers 2 Baby For new and older moms who are finding motherhood challenging. Time: 10am–11:30am, third Thursday. Venue: Hillcrest Private Hospital, Kassier Rd. Cost: free. Contact Hayley: 078 640 7949

Ixopo Christmas Festival Visit the country market, take a train ride with Santa and enjoy dinner and a wine tasting. Time: varies. Venue: Ixopo Country Club. Cost:

classes, talks and workshops

7am–11am. Venue: off the D507, outside Howick. Cost: free entry. Contact Andrea:

playtime and story time

Mystery Ghost Bus See haunted houses, forts and other spooky sites as you travel around town on a luxury coach. There are pub stops along the way. No under 18s. 22 January. Time: 6:30pm. Venue: bus departs from Causerie Bar, Edward Hotel. Cost: R295. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

Bright Baby Stars Interactive baby and mom classes start in January. Time: varies.

Venue: Westville. Cost: R750. Contact: 083 777 4578 or babybrightstars@gmail.com Clamber Club Movement and stimulation classes for children 1–4 years old. Time: varies. Venue: branches in Ballito, Hillcrest and Kloof. Cost: varies. Contact Ballito: 076 222 2946, Hillcrest: 084 577 7630 or Kloof: 083 259 2746 or visit clamberclub.com Moms and Tots workshops Toddlers 1–3 years old learn coordination, perception and self-confidence. Moms and Babes workshops also available. Venue: branches in Amanzimtoti, Ballito, Berea, Durban North, Highway area and Umhlanga.

Cost: varies. Contact: info@momsandtots. co.za or visit momsandbabes.co.za or momsandtots.co.za Toptots Children 8 weeks–4 years join age-appropriate classes to learn and play.

Time: varies. Venue: Durban North, Ballito, Glenwood, Kloof, Hillcrest, Westville and Hilton. Cost: varies. Contact: 031 266 4910, info@toptots.co.za or visit toptots.co.za

December 2012 / January 2013

1 december

Karkloof Farmers’ Christmas markets These offer a variety of fresh produce

out and about

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if you’re heading out of durban

bump, baby & Tot in tow

Michael Jackson History II 6 December–6 January. Time: 8pm, Thursday–Saturday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: iZulu Theatre, Sibaya Casino, Umdloti. Cost: R250. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com The Blarney Brothers 16 December. Time: 6pm. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Cost: R100. Contact: 031 566 3045, gateway@barnyardtheatres. co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za Wizard of Oz An adult pantomime. 6 November–13 January. Time: varies. Venue: Suncoast Casino, Durban Beach. Cost: R110–R200. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

Pre- and postnatal yoga at Blissful Bellies

2–Rander Project Shoppers are given a pamphlet with R2 attached and asked to buy a non perishable food item. The items are distributed to those in need in the community. 1 December. Time: 8am–2pm.

varies. Contact Glynnis: 083 273 8037 or Bridget: 082 570 7555

Babygym Firm Foundations A five-week parent education course. Starts 23 January.

Time: 10am–12pm. Venue: Waterfall. Cost: R630. Contact: 083 653 6801 or visit babygym.co.za Hypnobirthing Ballito Moms learn deep relaxation for birthing. Starts 22 January.

Time: 6pm. Venue: Brettenwood Coastal Estate. Cost: R1 600 per couple. Contact Sonja: 082 446 4879, sonja@gentlyborn. co.za or visit gentlyborn.co.za Infant baby massage Time: varies.

Venue: Westville. Cost: five-week course R500. Contact Kelly: 083 777 4578 or babybrightstars@gmail.com Pre- and postnatal yoga Blissful Bellies offers pregnancy and postnatal classes, for moms and babies. Venue: Eagle View Studio, 4 Galloway Lane, Gillitts. Contact Kirsty: 073 351 6824, kirsty@blissfulbellies. co.za or visit blissfulbellies.co.za

on stage and screen

how to help

Venue: Glenwood Village Spar, Hunt Rd, Bulwer. Contact Irene: 083 653 7590 Feed the babies fundraiser Throw a year-end party with a difference by charging R30 entrance fee. Funds raised are used to feed children throughout KZN. You can also help by donating funds, contribute towards their wish list, sponsor a baby or adopt a crèche. For more info: visit feedthebabiesfund.org.za SPCA Tree of Love Make a donation and receive a miniature wrapped Christmas box.

After writing a dedication to a pet, you can add your present to the tree. Available at various shopping centres around Durban.

For more info: visit spcadbn.org.za

and interesting ideas for Christmas gifts. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 December. Time: 082 820 8986

if you’re heading to cape town Body Worlds and the Cycle of Life Exhibition This anatomical exhibition displays real human bodies, organs and transparent body slices flawlessly preserved thanks to a revolutionary method known as plastination. The exhibition has been showcased in more than 70 countries worldwide and has been seen by over 35 million people. 31 October–31 January. Time: 9am–7:30pm, daily.

Venue: Breakwater Boulevard, V&A Waterfront (next to Toy Kingdom). Cost: adults R140, 6–17 year olds R90, children under 5 free, family ticket R400. For more info: visit bodyworlds.co.za City Sightseeing Night Tour Take a picnic basket and sundowners and watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. Ends 6 May. Time: departs 6pm. Venue: starts and ends at Two Oceans Aquarium, V&A Waterfront. Cost: adults R100, children R50. Contact: 021 511 6000 or visit citysightseeing.co.za

if you’re heading to joburg 23 november Potted Potter All seven Harry Potter books are compressed into an hilarious family show. For children 6 years and older. Ends 6 January. Time: varies. Venue: Pieter Toerien Montecasino Theatre, cnr William Nicol and Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways. Cost: R100–R250. Contact the Pieter Toerien Theatre: 011 511 1818 or visit montecasino.co.za

7 december Pick n Pay Taste of Christmas Celebrate the flavours of the festive season. Ends 9 December. Time: 12pm–9pm, Friday–Saturday; 12pm–6pm, Sunday. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland and Olievenhout Ave, Northriding. Cost: from R80. For more info: visit tasteofchristmas.co.za

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to durban@childmag.co.za or fax it to 031 207 3429. Information must be received by 4 January for the February 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

December 2012 / January 2013

33

finishing touch

extreme parenting A feline’s fall from grace teaches ANÉL LEWIS a

ustrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner, also known as “Fearless Felix”, shattered the sound barrier when he jumped off a stratospheric balloon to freefall almost 39 kilometres to earth. In an unassuming garden, somewhere at the tip of Africa, Domino did the same.

But unlike Felix, Domino did so without the adulation and cheers of onlookers and millions of viewers. Domino is our cat; our long-suffering feline companion who has survived several moves, two of them between cities, and most recently, an unexpected fall from space – and grace.

You see, Domino was hijacked by some children who were at a party at our house. Unbeknown to us, as we were blithely passing around cupcakes and sausage rolls, our poor cat was being

Erin, Anél and Conor

suspended from the top of the trampoline.

Granted, Domino may not have broken any speed records with her fall, but she still plummeted a good metre or so, and she did so a couple of times more than Felix. Fortunately for our hapless jumper, I managed to rescue her before any serious harm was done. And, barring a few bald spots and a slight case of vertigo, Domino seems none the worse for wear.

The incident did raise some interesting questions though about discipline – of other people’s children. With Erin it’s easy enough. She has grasped the concept of a time-out, and just a look from her father is enough to stop her in her tracks.

My children are no angels though, and Erin can wreak just as much havoc when we are out as the next child. At a rather posh event recently, I caught her doing her

own form of graffiti tagging on the white walls of the organiser’s upmarket mansion.

I gave her a stern talking-to, confiscated the crayon and promptly excused myself from the party. But what do you do when the instigator is someone else’s child?

And, even worse, what if you don’t know the parents that well?

Well, I opted for the diplomatic approach after the trampoline incident and made a general comment to all the parents there that “the children” had been caught tormenting our family pet.

They promptly spoke to their respective progeny, explaining that the cat was not to be carried, elevated or suspended in any way. A few moments later, however, I noticed that my Pilates ball, which has seen me through my tight twenties, when I couldn’t afford furniture and it doubled as

a core-strengthening desk chair, and two pregnancies, being rolled to the bottom of the garden. I wanted to rush down there and save it, but then I thought: it’s just a ball, and children need to be allowed some room to play.

Alas, it has been a good few days since the party and Domino’s petrifying plunge, but the Pilates ball is missing in action. I just hope that the cat, perhaps still drunk on adrenaline from her brush with neardeath, is not working on a new stunt for our next gathering.

Anél Lewis is Child magazine’s features editor. She would like to confirm that no animals were harmed in the making of this blog, although a few children were threatened with their life if they didn’t listen. Follow her on Twitter:@ ChildMagParent

family marketplace

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December 2012 / January 2013

magazine durban

PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

a

few things about children and discipline.