Child Magazine | Joburg June 2012

J O B U R G ’ S

b e s t

gu i d e

it’s time for mom and dad

14 www.childmag.co.za

June 2012

free

ways to reconnect with your partner

f o r

p a r e n t s

a season or a lifetime why all your child’s friendships have their place

parenting

stimulate your child’s mind while they’re on holiday wholesome winter recipes – to warm dad’s heart

health

education

entertainment

Are you a New Age parent?

At Sunday lunch, my mom and aunt, both in their late seventies, referred to their children (I was the only one present), as “these New Age parents”. I was surprised. Firstly, it’s an old, rather hackneyed term and, secondly, what does it really mean nowadays anyway? They carried on chatting and as they hadn’t seen each other for months, I didn’t interrupt.

Perhaps what the wise sisters were really referring to is the evolving and seemingly more challenging role parents are being asked to play, in what really is a new age. With the official unemployment figure at 25 percent, and the unofficial one galloping beyond 40 percent, we certainly need a new plan of action: how do we raise happy, healthy, environmentally friendly, really employable children, who are not completely stressed out? I often feel overwhelmed as I watch my children grow up, constantly stressing about school and sport. But when I actually sit back and look at their lives, I see a huge, ever-present safety net – their circle of friends. On page 20 we look at your child and the role their friends play in their lives. These friendships can give them what they really need to get where they are going: the fun and games, the love and the laughter, the shoulder to cry on and, so often, the confidence to conquer. While we strive to do all we can to love and protect our children, it may very well be their friends who carry them where we can’t. So let’s encourage childhood friendships and do what we can to help them grow.

Wishing all dads a happy Father’s Day on 17 June.

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Hunter House P U B L I S H IN G

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

Editorial Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Anél Lewis • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Simone Jeffery • joburg@childmag.co.za

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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

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Joburg’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 5, First Floor, Bentley Office Park, cnr Rivonia and Wessel Rd, Rivonia. Tel: 011 807 6449, fax: 011 234 4971, 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 Joburg’s Child magazineTM. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.

June 2012

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contents

June 2012

20

upfront 3

a note from lisa

6 over to you

readers respond

16 dad’s blog

we should encourage our children to explore the world, says Marc de Chazal

regulars

37 reader’s blog

8 wins

14 best for baby – special delivery

Duster Moyo explains why he went on a techno diet

features 20 helping friendships grow

lynis Horning explores the G importance of friends in your child’s life

Donna Cobban looks at the birthing options for your second or third baby

17 upfront with paul

the more time children spend outdoors, the happier they are, says Paul Kerton 18 dealing with difference

24 from yuck to yum

UK nutrition guru, Annabel Karmel,

gives you tips on how to get fussy

eaters to enjoy healthy food.

By Lucille Kemp

Asperger’s syndrome is an autism spectrum disorder, but how do we identify it? Lisa Lazarus finds out

26 keep them learning

Sameerah Karolia suggests ways to keep children mentally stimulated over the holidays

30 what my mother taught me

26

author Alexandra Fuller speaks to Sue Segar about her eccentric mother 32 warm the soul

celebrity chef Jenny Morris shares recipes for Father’s Day from her book Cooking with Jenny Morris

38 resource – romance me

health

12 all systems down

does your child suffer from

recurring infections? It might

be primary immunodeficiency disease. Ruwaydah Lillah explains

it’s time to reconnect with your partner. Compiled by Simone Jeffery

43 a good read

new books for the whole family

48 what’s on in june 62 finishing touch

moving house is not for the faint hearted, but Anél Lewis has done it twice, and while heavily pregnant

18

classified ads 59 let’s party 62 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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June 2012

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

shutterstock.com

shutterstock.com

shutterstock.com

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June 2012

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letters

over to you pretoria on the map I was exposed to Child magazine in Cape Town a year or two ago and was very impressed when you started distributing in Pretoria as well. Keep up the excellent work.

Ilse Botha

shot or not I am commenting on the article “give them a shot” (April 2012). As a healthcare professional and mother I would have preferred to see both sides of the vaccination debate presented to give me a balanced start to investigating this controversial topic. A good site for vaccines is nvic.org as it is neither for nor against vaccination. It would be great if any subject relating to health and children has medical, homoeopathic and any other related research presented.

Siobhan Wilcox

safety of playgrounds I would like to appeal to all who offer play facilities to ensure that safety checks are done on a regular basis and that the play equipment and surrounding areas are safe.

I often see moms sitting and chatting with friends while children as young as 18 months are left unattended to climb and explore playground equipment that is not suitable for their age group. Should one of these children fall they might be left with a brain injury or broken limbs.

I acknowledge that children need to explore their surroundings, but it should be in a controlled, safe environment, which has age-appropriate equipment.

In most establishments I have noticed that there are no padded safety mats and should the child fall it is either onto hard soil or concrete. I would also appeal to them to ensure that there are no strangulation hazards.

Concerned mom

more on ADHD medication My child was diagnosed with ADHD and, after a consultation with a psychologist and psychiatrist, went on Ritalin a year ago, which made her “head clearer”, helped her to cope, and improved her level of confidence, school enjoyment and general happiness. We recently started weaning her off the medicine at the psychiatrist’s suggestion, and she is still getting 10 percent more on average for her exams, is a happy and confident child and the school admits they see a huge improvement.

We are also able to control her ADHD with the right food and self-discipline.

Each child is different and we should not judge nor set a standard rule. Parents should do their research and find a solution that works for their child.

Nikki I am a teacher and it really upsets me when people state that we (teachers) immediately push parents to put their children on Ritalin without giving them other options. In the years that I have been teaching, I have

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June 2012

taught quite a few children that in my opinion as a teacher have had ADD/ADHD. In all of these cases I have called the parents in and we have discussed our options. Teachers cannot diagnose ADHD. The only thing that we can do is recommend that parents get their children assessed by an educational psychologist.

Teachers are also not legally allowed to prescribe medication. I don’t agree that Ritalin is the only choice. I always suggest that parents change their children’s diets, increase their exercise and limit their TV time. I encourage them to visit their GP who can help them with alternatives and if this fails, I suggest they look at medication. I have seen success with low doses of Ritalin given during school time and it made a huge difference to those children, but it is not for everyone. People sometimes don’t understand that teachers have 30-plus children to educate and the other children have problems too. We try our best with the resources we have and I always put the needs of the children in my class first.

Anonymous

where’s Benoni?

I am a soccer mom of two boisterous boys. My day consists of food, soccer, cricket, tennis, running, more food and more soccer, so when I get your magazine from the boys’ school, I relish the thought of a nice cuppa tea, feet up and a page through one of the top magazines. But then it struck me: 52 866 copies are distributed in Joburg and I am straight out of Benoni, dolled to the nines with my side pony, and I must say I would love to see, hear and read more about Benoni and the far East Rand. Here is my challenge to you: I’m a passionate, compassionate mother of two amazing boys who are made of snakes, snails and puppy dog tails, and would love a page in your magazine dedicated to all the faithful readers on the far East Rand. I need party venues, places to eat with the children, “what’s on”, and any inspirational ideas for all the thousands of moms here.

Pleading mom from Benoni, Clare Childmag says... Look out for our calendar in July. We’ll run a selection of the “very best of Benoni” for all our faithful readers on the East Rand.

the worldwide club I was trying to get my one-year-old daughter to sleep.

She was teething and she complained the whole day.

It was her third or fourth day with the same level of discomfort. Even when sleeping, she complained. I was exhausted. At some point I was rocking her on the balcony. It was hot and the fresh air helped to relax her.

I was so tired. My arms, back and knees were in pain from so many hours with her in my arms without a minute of silence, trying to do everything with a single hand. I felt helpless and frustrated. What else could I do?

Suddenly, there on the balcony, I thought: how many other women are at this precise moment doing exactly what I’m doing? Millions of mothers must be in the same position as me. I felt so much better. I was not alone. I imagined a kind of connection between us, like small lamps all over the world, flashing at the same time. I belonged to the largest and oldest club in the world. Thanks to all the mothers for being moms.

Nuria Vidal Galiano

from our website Comments on the article “overcoming the challenges of bed-wetting” My son is almost eight years old and a bedwetter. I have tried tablets that produce the “antidiuretic hormone” twice and the bedwetting alarm, but nothing worked. After 6pm in the evening my son is not allowed any fluids and he still sometimes wets his bed. Are there any solutions? – Anonymous In my experience as a therapist, children who bed-wet are experiencing some form of emotional stress. If one can pinpoint what this is and help a child to acknowledge what they are feeling and support them with love, understanding and care, the bed-wetting will stop almost immediately.

Craniosacral therapy is also very helpful for children with bed-wetting woes. – Sam We had our son checked for bladder issues, used medication, and used the alarm. The alarm had the best results in our case. – Heinrich As a child who wet his bed until almost the age of 13, due to various levels of anxiety, I know how they feel and can say that it will pass.

– Anonymous And more...

Is there a way to find out about open days at schools? I know they often advertise this information in your magazine. – Wendy Childmag says... See our online and magazine “what’s on” sections for open days.

I am a Grade R teacher and Gran, and would like to know how we go about getting your magazine circulated at our primary school? – Linda Kok Childmag says... For subscriptions to the magazine or to be added to our distribution waiting list, you can contact Helen Xavier via email at subs@childmag.co.za

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

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

You can also post a comment online at

childmag.co.za

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

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

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wins

giveaways in june vintage fashion Sticky Fudge is a place where childhood never goes out of fashion. Timeless cotton garments turn back the clock to when sticky hands were part of the fun.

Clothes are specifically designed to be combined with each other and there are various ranges to choose from, allowing you to create a unique, layered wardrobe for your child. Sizes are available from newborn to four years at selected and exclusive stockists.

This winter, spoil dad with the limited Sticky Fudge Dad and Me Designer Sweatshirt Combo, available in four colours, five adult sizes and children’s sizes up to age seven. Contact: info@ sticky-fudge.com or visit stickyfudge.com or facebook.com/ StickyFudgeClothing Four readers stand a chance to each win a Sticky Fudge winter wardrobe to the value of R2 500.

Simply enter via childmag.co.za/ wins-jhb and use the code “Sticky Fudge JHB”. Your details will be made available to Sticky Fudge.

giant fun

baby love The Babaderm range has been developed by medical professionals to bring together the latest in science and organics. Probiton, a probiotic supernatant with anti-fungal, antiinflammatory and anti-bacterial agents, keeps baby’s skin smooth while reducing germs. The range is available at selected outlets or online. Contact: 021 794 3603 or visit babaderm.com Five readers stand a chance to each win a hamper containing nappy cream, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, body lotion and probio oil, valued at R400. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-jhb and use the code “Babaderm JHB”. Your details will be made available to Babaderm.

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June 2012

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PHOTOGRAPH: KIDZ2000 – STICKY FUDGE

Garden Games creates an interactive, fun experience for families and friends of all ages. Their wide range of indoor and outdoor games are designed to be durable, offering hours of wholesome fun for children and adults. For more info: visit giantgardengames.co.za One reader stands a chance to win a hamper with Pick Up Sticks, Giant Snakes and Ladders, Giant Dominoes, Hopping Mad, Sack Races and Giant lawn Darts, valued at R2 100. Simply enter via childmag. co.za/wins-jhb and use the code “Garden Games JHB”. Your details will be made available to Garden Games.

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wins

say goodbye to winter colds

fit and loving it

SupaChewz is a new children’s multivitamin that delivers high quality nutrients for growing minds and bodies and helps boost the immune system. The strawberry chew tablet contains 12 vitamins and 12mg elemental of chelated zinc, with no aspartame, artificial sweeteners, sugar, gluten, lactose or colourants. Contact: info@arctichealth.co.za or visit arctichealth.co.za Twenty-five readers stand a chance to each win a month’s supply of SupaChewz valued at R80,95. Simply enter via childmag. co.za/wins-jhb and use the code “SupaChewz JHB”. Your details will be made available to Arctic Health.

Adventure Boot Camp is an outdoor exercise programme, offering fitness instruction, motivational training and nutritional counselling. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, this is a fun exercise programme that will help you reach your goals. For more info: visit AdventureBootCamp.co.za Four readers stand a chance to each win a four-week camp, with one hour of training three times per week, valued at R530 or R560. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-jhb and use the code “Adventure JHB”. Your details will be made available to Adventure Boot Camp.

to enter simply visit childmag.co.za

congratulations to our April winners Katherine Hughes who wins a combo jungle gym and slide, including platform, monkey ramp, net and swings from Buddies Playgyms; Nastashia van Pletzen who wins with Bloc; Carynne Jurgens who wins a birthday party from Yeesh! and Keith Vennell who wins a

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

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June 2012

birthday party from Grannies Garden.

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health

all systems down Does your “sickly child” suffer from recurring infections and illnesses? He may have a primary immunodeficiency

what is PID? When a part of the immune system is missing, or does not work properly, the

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June 2012

body can’t get rid of germs or protect itself from new germs. This means that sufferers are more vulnerable to infections and struggle to shake off even the slightest germ. PID sufferers may experience autoimmune problems, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s organs and tissues instead of germs and other disease-causing agents.

Most primary immunodeficiencies are genetic disorders and there are over 150 types, many of which go undiagnosed.

They vary in severity, with some being so mild that they may go unnoticed for years.

More severe cases will usually be picked up soon after birth.

what are the symptoms?

Dr Monika Esser, Head of National Health Laboratory Systems at Tygerberg Hospital and the Immunology Unit at Stellenbosch University, cautions parents not to panic and put every sniffle down to PID. To find

out if your child is at risk, she recommends you use the “spur” indicator, an acronym for severe, persistent, unexplained and recurrent infections, while also being aware of 10 warning signs. “Concerned parents should consult a doctor or clinic nurse,” advises Esser.

Your child may be at risk if she has: • eight or more ear infections a year; • two or more serious sinus infections a year; • spent two or more months ineffectively on antibiotics; • two or more bouts of pneumonia per year; • recurrent deep skin or organ abscesses; • persistent mouth or skin thrush after the age of seven; • n eeded intravenous antibiotics to clear infections; • two or more deep-seated infections, such as meningitis, sepsis, cellulitis, or osteomyelitis; and • a family history of PID.

Stunted growth in infants may also be a warning sign.

is there a cure?

Certain forms of severe combined immune deficiency and an increasing number of PIDs, even chronic granulomatous disease, can be cured by a successful bone marrow or a cord blood transplant, says Esser.

“An early diagnosis is important, before irreversible organ damage occurs.” She adds that gene therapy holds some promise for curing PIDs, although the later onset of cancers is a problem. More common antibody deficiencies are usually treatable with immunoglobulin, antibiotics and vaccinations.

where to get help PiNSA has a national helpline exclusively for PID patients. Contact Joy Rosario: 082 365 4663, pinsahelp@mweb.co.za or visit pinsa.org.za

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

w

hen a recurrent chest infection refused to yield to an aggressive dose of antibiotics and nebuliser treatments, Pietermaritzburg nurse Cally Coldbeck realised something was wrong with her usually vivacious daughter, Megan.

Days before the infection, Megan was a normal nine-year-old, climbing trees and playing with the animals on a friend’s farm in the Drakensberg. But a seemingly harmless infection quickly turned her into a shadow of her former bubbly self. “Her weight dropped and she slept all day without getting any better. We watched this energetic “firefly” waste away in front of our eyes.” After a series of tests, Meg, now 13, was diagnosed with a primary immunodeficiency disease (PID).

disease, says RUWAYDAH LILLAH.

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best for baby

special delivery Often women don’t have the birth they envisioned, so when the time comes to prepare for a second or third baby, it’s helpful to know what the options are. By DONNA COBBAN

natural

i

had a Caesarean section. I held out for a natural delivery, but in the last week I developed cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver disorder with implications for the baby’s health, and the decision was made for me. “We’ll do it on Tuesday. Come in for a prep talk on Monday,” I was told.

“But I want the baby to decide when he will be born, so let’s do it once I go into labour,” was my response. “But then you might have to get us all up in the middle of the night,” was the retort. Being the wimp I often am, I just mumbled, “Oh okay” and made my appointment. Then on Sunday at about midnight labour began and the next morning, at 8:02am, my son was born via C-section, on the day he chose. I felt I had won a small victory. But were I to do it again, I would do things differently. At that time, I knew no one who had used a midwife and I barely knew what a doula was.

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This can take place in a hospital or clinic with your gynaecologist/obstetrician, at a birth centre with a midwife or doula or even at your own home. Many hospitals now have birthing rooms or suites, which may include a bath, music and a double bed, where the partner can sleep over. Water births are gaining popularity, but they need careful planning as equipment needs to be booked well in advance. Medically there are mixed feelings as to delivering a baby under water – the pros and cons of which would need to be discussed with your medical practitioner.

pain relief in natural birth Dr Linda Walmesly, an obstetrician/gynaecologist at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, says pethidine and morphine are commonly used drugs in natural labour.

These are given via injection to the mother preferably four hours before delivery. The antidote nalaxone is administered to the baby if there is a slow response postdelivery or if the mother received medication shortly before the birth. Entonox or nitrous oxide, otherwise known

as laughing gas, can be inhaled during and just before contractions for some pain relief.

The most comprehensive form of pain relief would be an epidural, which is an injection of local anaesthetic via a small catheter into the space surrounding the spinal cord. It is an invasive procedure and is performed by an anaesthetist. It can be given in such a way that the mother can still walk around.

Other methods include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or Tens, which provides a non-invasive, lowrisk nerve stimulation that may help with pain; acupuncture; lying in a warm bath; soothing music and hypnobirthing

twenty-one The percentage of births in South Africa in 2003 that were by Caesarean section as reported by the World Health Organisation. The WHO standard is not more than 10 to 15 percent.

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

types of births

and the use of relaxation techniques to diminish fear and help your body deliver naturally.

caesarean section South Africa, it seems, is fast following countries where fear, insurance and litigation have become major players in the birthing game and healthcare practitioners appear more reluctant to take any risks. According to a 2011 paper in the South African Medical Journal, “reasons for requesting a C-section include fears of labour and delivery, also known as tocophobia, convenience, control, and the preservation of pelvic floor function”. Many women also opt for an elective Caesarean as they can choose the date and time of the birth, maximise their maternity leave and because of anecdotal evidence that the procedure is safer for the mother and/or the baby, which is not necessarily true. The paper points out that some doctors believe a C-section reduces the risk of being sued, even if a vaginal birth may be the optimal option.

It is performed by a gynaecologist/obstetrician with an anaesthetist present throughout the procedure. The reasons for a non-elective C-section include a baby in the breech position, meaning the feet or buttocks would have entered the birth canal first instead of the head, a baby deemed too large to pass through the pelvis or if the baby or mother is in distress. Often the baby may be placed directly onto the mother’s chest after birth, allowing for skin-on-skin contact.

As a C-section is serious surgery, you will be in hospital for about three days and you will have to avoid lifting, exercise and driving for six weeks while you recover.

vaginal birth after Caesarean When asked about a vaginal birth after C-section, or a VBAC, Marilyn Sher, a midwife in private practice in

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Joburg, reports that these can be done successfully with an obstetrician. Ashleigh McGougan’s first child was in a breech position when she went into labour. The baby was therefore delivered via an emergency C-section, but she had her second child via a VBAC water birth, at home. This is also known as a home birth after Caesarean, or an HBAC. The VBAC is not popular as the medical profession prefers to stay away from potential risks, such as uterine rupture.

Ashleigh says her C-section was necessary only because the baby was breech and not due to any other medical condition, so she was a perfect candidate for a VBAC. It is rare to have an HBAC and finding a gynaecologist/ obstetrician who will act as a backup may be a challenge.

But in Ashleigh’s case, her midwife was happy to go along with it as long as she promised to go to hospital if things got complicated.

your birth partners obstetrician/gynaecologist or midwife?

recommended by the World Health Organisation to

This can be a difficult decision. Both will offer you

have a scan at 12, 20 and 36 weeks. These, Marilyn

the same gynaecological and obstetrical services,

says, would be done by either the back-up doctor or

with full prenatal care, tests and screenings as well

a sonographer. She goes on to mention that the

as postpartum follow-up care. A midwife cannot do

South African Nursing Council’s midwife rules

surgery or Caesarean deliveries, but she/he can cut

state that the mother needs to see a doctor once

and suture episiotomies and give local anaesthetic for

in her pregnancy. “The obstetricians we work with

this. If you are having a VBAC and seeing a midwife

see the client once and thereafter only if we have

you will need a partnering obstetrician/gynaecologist

problems with the pregnancy or if the mom needs a

as a backup. If there are any complications in your

Caesarean section.”

pregnancy, seeing an obstetrician/gynaecologist is the recommended route to follow.

doula

Marilyn says her role is to give personalised

A doula is present throughout labour and is there

professional care during pregnancy, the birth and up

to offer emotional and physical support, and to

to six weeks post-delivery. “We see the moms any time

communicate with medical staff on the mother’s

between conception and birth and the checkups are

behalf. It’s not only the mothers who benefit. First-time

done on the same basis as for any doctor or clinic,”

fathers often report that a doula’s presence significantly

she says. Once labour starts, the midwife goes to the

reduced their own stress and worry. Belinda says, “The

hospital or home to support the mother and monitor

doula does not in any way take the place of a doctor or

her condition. While midwives do not do scans as

midwife, but rather assists the medical team by taking

they feel they are not essential at each visit, it is

care of the mother’s emotional needs and comfort.”

June 2012

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dad’s blog

be more interesting Encourage your children to leave their comfort zone and explore new places

i

enjoy the unusual aspects of life. I guess that’s why stumbling upon Jessica Hagy’s quirky perspective on forbes.com/sites/jessicahagy made my day.

Jessica is an artist and writer, best known for her awardwinning blog, Indexed (don’t worry, I’d never heard of it either). Her writing has mastered the art of brevity, accentuated with line drawings to illustrate her points.

There are lessons in communication, which we could pass on to our children, right there.

But the particular article that caught my attention is about being more interesting – or as she puts it, “how to be interesting (in 10 stupid-simple steps)”. She encourages her readers to explore ideas, places and opinions. “The inside of the echo chamber is where all

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the boring people hang out,” she says. But Jessica is not endorsing a purely selfish path to self-improvement. We should also share what we discover with others. And we

The inside of the echo chamber is where all the boring people hang out. should do something – anything – instead of sitting around and complaining. I like that one. We live in an age where it’s really easy to whinge and moan about anything and everything without lifting a finger to make a difference.

It helps to have a cause, of course. Jessica’s point is that we need to be passionate about something in life, but she warns against being arrogant. All of this requires a certain amount of courage and for us to leave our comfort zones and go against the flow. There are no revolutionary ideas in the article, but they are definitely worth emphasising to our children as they grow up.

Being unafraid to try new things and experience as much of life as possible seems to me like a really good way to live.

Read more of Marc de Chazal’s weekly parenting blogs on childmag.co.za/dad-blog

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

and ideas, says MARC DE CHAZAL.

upfront with paul

get out there If you want to teach your children well, start spending more of your weekend outdoors – they’ll be happier for it, and so will you, says PAUL KERTON.

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

i

grew up in Ilkley, a lovely, safe Yorkshire town, which had a dangerously fastflowing river surrounded by craggy hills, gushing streams and giant rocks. I climbed trees to the very top – often with some very hairy moments getting down, I clambered up and over rocks and I’d take my bike with the thickest tyres over the roughest forest trails, years before they invented mountain bikes. We’d sail down river in car tyres, being careful to negotiate the killer rapids, and we’d play football in the park for days.

In winter I went ice-skating on the small frozen lake, sometimes falling through the thinner ice, and when it snowed I took my toboggan and challenged my friends to the steepest, longest, most dangerous slopes. There were no cellphones or computer games, no Facebook and not much on TV, but I was happy and roamed free.

Nobody – not parents, teachers, social workers or the police, bothered me and nobody said the word “don’t”. My mother

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Saskia, Paul and Sabina

simply asked if I had a vest on, adding, “be careful, and be back in time for dinner”.

Play is often described by those in the know as “the work of children” in that without play children do not develop the physical and mental skills necessary to survive to a basic standard. The hope is that growing children will develop strong bones and good muscle tone, and an alert and curious mind bursting with imagination.

These days, however, there seem to be an awful lot of people saying “don’t” and the

act of play is fast becoming a political football booted from one lobby group to another, which could either improve or restrict a child’s development and happiness.

There has been a rash of child surveys recently done by important, concerned and influential bodies, institutions and corporations, and numerous pressure groups. They conclude that: 1) Children are getting fatter faster than ever before. 2) Their bodies are weak to the point that, 3) they cannot endure

simple exercise, like running. This is because, 4) they are spending too much time indoors or on the couch in front of a screen. 5) Parents don’t spend enough time playing with their children because, 6) they feel guilty for not working or not doing domestic chores. 7) Child’s play is deemed either too dangerous or not dangerous enough, depending on which group you believe, and 8), children are generally unhappy compared to children of 15 years ago. 9) Out of 21 “rich” western countries, UK children are the “unhappiest” children, while 10), the Netherlands has the happiest children with Scandinavian countries runners-up.

(South Africa didn’t feature).

Now in the UK parents need to seek planning permission to “erect” a jungle gym and are advised to take an “’elf and safety course (250 quid!)” to learn how to supervise their child on it.

Please, let’s not go there…

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

June 2012

17

dealing with difference

geek syndrome Is Asperger’s syndrome more common in people specialising in highly-skilled fields of science and engineering? LISA LAZARUS investigates. severe autism, the content – namely, what the child talks about – and the style of their communication – for example the way a conversation is about each person taking a turn to speak – will be affected.

Dr Lynda Albertyn, child psychiatrist and head of the Child, Adolescent and Family Unit at the Johannesburg Hospital, says Asperger’s syndrome as a category is likely to fall away, and that all autistic disorders will soon be analysed along a spectrum, from higher-functioning to lower-functioning.

incidence of AS According to Autism Western Cape, autism spectrum disorders affect one in 110 children globally, and are four times more common with boys than girls. In the Western Cape, approximately 10 children are diagnosed each week at three of the province’s government hospitals. It is estimated that the number of people with AS is approximately one in 500, and that the number diagnosed with autism grows by 500 percent each year. Is it a case that this diagnosis is being made more easily, or are the rates of autism just steadily rising?

Certainly there do appear to be areas where the rates of autism are particularly high. Nature magazine reports on a 2010 study, which found that “clusters [of high autism rates] tended to occur in areas where parents were older and educated to

It is widely accepted that the origin of Asperger’s syndrome is multifactorial and shouldn’t be ascribed to a single cause. what is asperger’s syndrome?

Jana Forrester, a Cape Town-based educational psychologist, says that AS is a form of autism characterised by normal to superior IQ, which is accompanied by social and communication difficulties.

The person also exhibits restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. Supposedly, AS differs from more severe autistic disorders in that language delays and/or deviances are not as apparent. Instead, children with AS tend to show high levels of language and speech development. While it may sound as if there are significant differences between a child who is autistic and one suffering from AS, the truth is that, in the words of AS expert Dr Tony Atwood, “the difference between high-functioning autism and Asperger’s syndrome is mostly in the spelling”. For children suffering from AS and more

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a higher level”. Older parents, it appears, also have a higher risk of having children with autism.

Leading autism researcher Simon Baron-Cohen, also quoted in Nature magazine, is interested in the factors that promote the genetic inheritance of this disorder. He claims that the fathers of children with autism are more than twice as likely to be engineers as those of non-autistic children. Baron-Cohen hypothesises that with autism, especially higher-functioning autism, the brain has an average to heightened ability to understand a predictable system, or to “hyper-systematise”, and an inability to empathise or understand people’s feelings. This “systematising ability” can be inherited and in areas where such people are probably going to meet, get together and have children – think Silicon Valley

±1 in 110 children globally who are affected by autism spectrum disorders

– the autism rates could well be higher. In other words, scientists and engineers, those with high systematising abilities or brains, are more likely to produce autistic children, particularly when they marry each other.

Baron-Cohen is not without his detractors, some of whom say that he tends to focus on very bright individuals with autism, and that his theories might give people the wrong impression; that autism is linked to being a “geek”. Dr Cobie Lombard, the principal of Unica School for Autism in Pretoria, says that it’s

“widely accepted that the origin of AS is multifactorial and shouldn’t be ascribed to a single cause”.

After Helen’s son was diagnosed with AS, she began an intervention programme with him that included behaviour therapy, speech therapy (though this only worked when her son was a little older), occupational therapy and dietary intervention. “No two children suffering from AS are exactly alike,” she says. “Each child has his or her own particular issues, difficulties and obsessions.” She stresses that early intervention is critical. Noah has made remarkable improvements; this year he started at a mainstream school.

“My child will always be on the autism spectrum; it is part of who he is. However, intervention has helped ensure that Noah fulfils his potential and, really, that is what all parents want for their children.”

red flags for possible autism communication: • no babbling by 11 months of age, • no simple gestures, such as waving, by 12 months, • no single words by 16 months, • no two-word phrases by 24 months, • no response when name is called, causing concern about hearing, and • loss of language or social skills at any age. behaviour: • odd or repetitive ways of moving fingers or hands, • oversensitive to certain textures, sounds or lights, • lack of interest in toys, or plays with them in an unusual and ageinappropriate way, for example, lining up, or opening and closing parts instead of playing with a toy as a whole, • compulsions or rituals – has to perform activities in a special way or

certain sequence; prone to tantrums if the ritual is interrupted, and • a preoccupation with unusual interests, such as light switches, doors and fans or unusual fears, for example, of the colour green. social: • rarely makes eye contact, • does not play peek-a-boo, • doesn’t point to show things, or follow your point, • m ore interested in looking at objects than at people’s faces, • prefers to play alone, • doesn’t make attempts to get parents’ attention, • child is in “his/her own world”, • doesn’t respond to a parent’s attempt to play, even if relaxed, and • avoids or ignores other children when they approach.

Information courtesy of Autism Western Cape (autismwesterncape.org.za)

PHOTOGRAPHs: shutterSTOCK.COM

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elen Hayes, the CEO of Autism Western Cape, first noticed a problem with her son, Noah, now five, when his behaviour and verbal ability changed dramatically at 22 months. “We moved to a bush camp on the border of Timbavati around this time and initially I attributed Noah’s strange behaviour to the huge change in his environment, the separation from his nanny and the lack of opportunity for socialisation in the game reserve,” she says.

Helen explains that Noah stopped eating and sleeping properly. His speech started to deteriorate; whereas before he was linking two words together, he now stopped speaking altogether. He would sometimes hit himself, and began to bang his head. There were also strange obsessions, like standing with his face against the television, or running his finger over the markings in a parking lot. “I remember Googling tip-toe walking and that led me to pages about autism. With horror I realised that Noah [matched] 12 of the 15 red flags for this condition.” At just over two years old, he was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum. Noah is a somewhat atypical case, because he initially presented with a speech delay, which is uncharacteristic for this condition.

The diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome (AS) was only made later, at about five, and after three years of specialised intervention.

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June 2012

19

parenting

helping friendships

grow

Your child’s need for friends, and the ability to make them, changes at different ages and

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stages, writes GLYNIS HORNING.

atching my teenage son’s warm camaraderie with his best buddy is a delight.

Yet when they first met at one of my antenatal class’s reunion teas, they ignored each other, intent only on engaging with their moms and their baby mobiles.

As toddlers they played separately, exchanging words when one coveted the other’s plastic spade or scooter. It was only in preschool that they slowly began the sharing, caring and communicating they do so well today. “We are social animals, so our brains are wired for social interaction and cognition,” says Durban-based education and child psychologist Dr Caron Bustin. “Nurturing this during sensitive stages supports a child’s holistic development.” It takes patience and sensitivity, but what would any of us be without the companionship, candid advice, comfort and sheer fun of good friends?

the baby years: zero to one Your baby learns the basics of forming friendships when you make eye contact with them and exchange smiles. They are drawn to the human face and voice, and if you talk, sing or read to them they babble or coo in response and imitate your expressions.

“A mother’s interaction and her bond with her baby from birth is vital for a secure attachment [to form] between them,” says Joburg-based clinical psychologist Clare Harvey. “This secure relationship will form the blueprint for all further relationships the child will have.”

What you can do: Put your baby’s chair or pram where they can see you while you cook or do chores.

Harvey says, “Constantly talk to them and give them running commentary on your actions. You are then laying the foundation for healthy, secure friendships later on in life.”

Toddlers are notoriously selfabsorbed, seeing themselves as the centre of the universe, but they are curious about others and can show empathy. “Even one year olds have been observed trying to sooth their peers,” says Bustin. They initially play alone, but watch others at play. They then progress to “parallel play” alongside another child and, though there is little interaction, they are learning about friendship by mirroring each other’s actions or sounds. Favourite words tend to be “me” and “mine”, but they understand many more and are ripe for emotional guidance.

What you can do: Coach them in feelings, consequences and self-control, all vital for friendship: “Thandi is crying because she is sad that you took her doll.”

Empathise but have limits: “I know you want the spade and waiting is difficult, but Steven is using it now.” A child feels heard if you affirm their feelings or wishes, explains Bustin. They might not like a particular rule, such as waiting for their turn, but they will soon learn.

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the toddler years: one to three

the preschool years: four to six Friendship now rests largely on the proximity of the other child and an interest in what they are playing with. But children do begin to develop deeper bonds with a few special friends, usually of the same sex. There can be trouble when one child always assumes the role of leader, or can’t get the other child’s attention. They may resort to stepping on their playmate’s sand castle or smacking to get a reaction.

What you can do: Develop your child’s empathy by explaining their friend’s viewpoint: “Let Fatima play Mom for a change or she may not want to come next time.” They need to try out different roles to develop empathy or to gain perspective, says Bustin. Cape Town educational psychologist René Daniels suggests joining in your child’s imaginary play to help develop sharing and other skills. “Talking and modelling appropriate social behaviour is vital as children mirror what we do,” she says.

the primary school years: seven to 12 From the age of seven, their friendships focus on shared activities such as sports or computer games, and on talking and gossiping. “As they internalise society’s values and conventions, children’s moral reasoning increases, but they’re still at the stage of direct consequences so they want to see punishment or obedience,” says Bustin. They can be self-righteous and will likely “tell on” their friends.

What you can do: Explain that this is not acceptable, unless the other child is hurting or endangering themselves or others, she says. Talk to them about physical and emotional bullying and suitable responses, and practice these (see “what to do when”). Give them opportunities to form a variety of friendships.

“Invite other children home, and insist they visit others too because of the different dynamic,” says Bustin. Involve them with sporting, cultural, scouting or other interest groups.

the middle school years: from 13 With growing independence, children start opening up to friends about their intimate feelings, dreams and fears. They may also begin forming friendships with, and crushes on, the opposite sex. Loss of friendship can seem like the end of the world, and they are painfully vulnerable to exclusion from the favoured or “cool” groups that form based on looks, dress and strong personality, as well as to teasing and bullying. Today some of the most devastating bullying is done on social networking sites such as MXit and Facebook.

What you can do: Understand that a degree of social pain is normal and don’t interfere unless you have to, but make sure your child knows they can turn to you for help and advice, says Harvey. Daniels adds, “Talk to them about appropriate etiquette and what to share and keep private when using social networks. Helping them deal with emotional pain will build resilience and confidence and enhance their problem-solving skills.” If your child loses a friend or is rejected by a clique, listen compassionately and ask what they are doing about it. Give encouragement and suggestions if they ask but, expressing confidence in them by letting them work through it themselves to find their own solutions is the best way to help them grow, say both psychologists.

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21

parenting

what to do when… they fight with friends Fighting is normal, even among close friends, and as long as it’s within manageable proportions, leaving your child to sort it out teaches important life skills, says Harvey. If the fight gets heated, help them to identify their feelings and show empathy while remaining balanced. “You must have felt hurt when Vashni teased you. Do you think she may be upset because you wouldn’t let her use your crayons?” Point out consequences and encourage understanding. Say, “If you stop playing with her, could you miss having her over?” Offer support: “I know you can sort this out, but I’m here if you’d like to talk.”

Above all, be a positive role model when you disagree with them, your own friends or your spouse. Calmly define the problem and your feelings and be respectful yet assertive. you don’t like their friends It’s often simpler to let an unsuitable friendship run its course than try to end it, says Harvey, “unless there could be lasting damage or danger to your child”.

Calmly point out your concerns about the friend’s behaviour, and ask how it makes your child feel and

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whether it fits with their values. Let them know you trust them to make the right decisions and to resist peer pressure. If a friendship is dangerous because it involves drinking or drugs, limit the opportunities for contact and encourage opportunities to meet new friends, through sport or participation in other interest groups.

If the friendship continues, you may have to separate them by changing classes or schools, but this should be a last resort, says Bustin. They will often be relieved to have the matter taken from their hands. “Always consult with your child throughout this process, letting them know what your thoughts are regarding how you would like to help,” adds Harvey. they’re friends with the Queen Bee or the bully Cliques are particularly powerful in middle school, when children can have a shaky self-esteem and crave the affirmation and identity of a group. These groups often distinguish themselves by putting down outsiders or competitors, and may project negative qualities onto them, also known as “scapegoating”, to boost their own sense of superiority, says Daniels. Your child may be sucked into a clique by fear of being ridiculed and excluded, rather than because they actively support the group’s Queen Bee leader or dominant bully. “A child

who lacks confidence and has poor social skills is more likely to find themselves in such a position. Acceptance and unconditional love from you would help them take a stand and move away from such situations.” Explain the difference between popularity, which is based simply on a group’s agreement that someone is attractive and “cool”, and friendship, which is based on genuine affection, trust and support. they bully a friend A bully will often mask their actions as being “strong” or “humorous” and blame the victim. They usually manipulate others to feel powerful and in control, so make sure that there is nothing negative going on in your child’s life. “Regular quality time and checking in with one another will definitely help,” says Daniels.

Never facilitate bullying. If your child wants to exclude a child from a class party, ask how they would feel. Explain that they should never tolerate bullying and disrespect from anyone, and that it will not be tolerated from them. Discuss limits and consequences, and stick to them, says Daniels. “Creating a stable home, where value and respect for one another is prized, puts your child in the best stead for building lasting relationships.”

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June 2012

23

health

from yuck to yum LUCILLE KEMP gets advice from UK food author, Annabel Karmel, about fussy eaters and child nutrition.

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n an ideal world, you will effortlessly rear your child to eat all the food groups with a smile on their face.

Then reality strikes, meal time is a battle of wills and, eventually, you give up the fight. Sometimes too soon, says Annabel Karmel, who shows you how you can get your fussy eater to enjoy a wide range of foods, and experiment with the new and even the exotic.

be positive Lots of attention is given to children for not eating when meal time should be a positive experience. So, give them loads of attention for whatever it is they do eat, even if a teaspoon of yoghurt is all they can stomach.

Hide your frustrations, don’t fight and let them go out and play. Eventually, they’ll be ready to eat and you’ll find a hungry child is less fussy. And make meal time a fun family ritual by eating together at the table.

breakfast is best Children need complex carbohydrates for energy throughout the day so make sure they get some in the morning. The options vary from carrot and apple muffins or a banana to wholegrain cereal and scrambled eggs.

eat ethnic Children, for the most part, don’t like bland foods, says Annabel. So, introduce them to fruity Indian curries, Asian noodle dishes or Mexican quesadillas, and then you can take the family out to ethnic restaurants.

get them involved Your baby is less likely to be fussy later if you start making your own fresh baby food. The combinations are endless and can be as tasty as you like – season your puréed veggies with herbs and garlic, and sweeten their food with apple, sweet potato and carrots. Your baby will take to this more readily having already been conditioned to the sweet taste of breast milk. Also, don’t cook the veggies to death as all the nutrients will be lost. Simply steam the vegetables for six to seven minutes, then purée. Fresh preparation doesn’t have to be major PT. Once you’ve cooked and prepared the foods, you can freeze ice-cube portions in an ice tray.

Let your children make their own wraps.

They’ll be more likely to eat something that they’ve prepared themselves. After all, this is their ego at stake.

start a reward system Have a chart up on the fridge and give your child a sticker every time they’ve tried something new. When they’ve reached a certain amount, say you’ll buy them that pair of jeans they want or they can watch the soccer match on TV. Cheap bribery? Maybe, but the winning point is you’re taking the focus and pressure off the food issue.

package it better Children like to hold their food so give them finger foods such as mini meatballs, fish goujons or sliced raw vegetables and dip. The vegetable is often enemy number one, so disguise the undesirable by puréeing courgettes, mushrooms, peppers, carrots and celery into tomato sauce. Instead of just potato mash, grate some carrots into the mash. When you make a lasagne, try the spinach and ricotta variation. If your child doesn’t like fruit, purée fruit and pour into ice-lolly moulds and freeze.

make food attractive Make individual fish pies in small ramekins; it’s likely to be more appealing for a child

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start early

than a lump of mash and sauce in the middle of their plate. Also, for stir-fry night, buy those child-friendly chopsticks that are joined at the top, this will add a little theatre to their eating – they’ll be so busy giggling and bobbing for their food that they’ll forget they’re eating veggies.

time it right Children are at their hungriest when they come home from school, which is probably when you have nothing nutritious to offer because you are thinking more about supper. Try to have something healthy prepared for when they walk through the door, because, being ravenous, they are more likely to eat it. Then, come dinner time, it doesn’t matter if they don’t eat everything on their plate.

make healthy junk food A child once told Annabel that the reason they like junk food is “’cause it tastes better than healthy food”. So, there’s no reason why you can’t make your own healthy junk food – this can be pizza, burger patties and hidden-vegetable tomato sauce.

children are great mimics Children are copycats so invite a cousin or friend that you know is not a fussy eater and begin your social experiment by serving something like an olive and pepper pizza for lunch. Your child is more likely to follow their friend’s lead and experiment with the new taste than if you are simply telling her to try it.

snacks should be nutrient dense Snacks for children are essential; they need that constant input of energy. Make a habit of having nutritious foods in the fridge such as a pasta salad, mini cheeses and meatballs. Avoid giving them calorieempty snacks such as chocolate biscuits, crisps and even fruit juice – they’ll fill up on this and lose their appetite for “real” food.

enlist the help of your dentist Simply get the family dentist to show your child photos of children with rotten teeth resulting from eating too many sweets. This scare tactic will have more impact than you trying for the hundredth time to discourage them from eating too many sweets.

break the pattern

children don’t get enough iron The greatest source of iron exists in animal protein. The easiest way to get meat into their system is by making the ever-popular spaghetti bolognaise. For those children who don’t eat meat, wholegrain cereals are packed with iron, but make sure they have a glass of orange juice with their breakfast as vitamin C helps absorb iron.

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Children have pretty much decided what they like and don’t like by the time they are five years old, according to Annabel, but they still have a clean palate and have only decided what they like based on what you’ve given them. It’s a case of “getting used to”, so keep introducing them to different foods. At first they’ll avoid the unusual taste of chicken satay, so leave it on the table for them to consider later – when they’re hungry they’ll come around.

moderation You don’t have to cut out sugar altogether.

Make it part of the meal by serving pudding.

It’s the in-between sugary snacks that do the most damage.

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education

keep them

A long school break could lead to regression in your child’s numeracy and literacy skills. SAMEERAH KAROLIA suggests ways to beat the holiday slump.

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keep up the good work Dindar says parents should have some sort of plan of action for the holidays and set some ground rules, since children thrive on routine and guidelines. She suggests that you allow for leisure time and outdoor activities, as well as some prepared activities.

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make the most of outings Visit museums and places of interest and then discuss with your children what they saw, felt or touched.

Encourage them to draw, write and talk about their experiences. This will help develop their vocabulary and also their cognitive or thinking skills.

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read, read, and read some more “Parents should encourage their children to form book clubs and introduce electronic reading devices, such as a Kindle or books on computer tablets,” says Dindar. Reward their reading by allowing them to buy a book, or to choose one online. Instead of buying books, you can also visit your local library. Ask friends and family to give you old magazines and newspapers for them to read.

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make travelling fun

Van Rooyen says road trips can be a learning opportunity. “Be creative. Invent games and rules for language and maths. Play games, such as adding and subtracting the numbers on number plates, learning the colours of vehicles or playing word games.”

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are also valuable as they offer opportunities to develop numeracy and language skills.

Playing Monopoly will also teach your children how to manage their finances.

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extra work

Children can do extra maths and English classes to combat the holiday slump. Some schools give children holiday packs, which encourage them to complete a “winter or summer challenge”. This ensures that they haven’t regressed in their maths and reading when school reopens.

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have fun Nadia Tayob, a mom from Joburg who has a two-yearold daughter, Aaliya, and four-year-old son, Deen, believes that a child’s body and mind need to be stimulated every day.

“Being a crafty mom myself, I love to do art and crafts with my children. Painting is always a favourite and I also encourage messy play with shaving cream or goop, made with corn starch and water. Some of our favourite outdoor activities include having water fights that involve a lot of running and giggles. We play freeze dance at home. We also do crab walk races that strengthen their arms in a fun way. To stimulate their minds, I create weekly activity trays for my children and leave them on their play shelf at home.

This allows them to do the activity when their body or mind needs the stimulation, without me having to push them to do it.”

play games

what role can teachers play?

Clarke says popular games, such as cards, Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit

Van Rooyen believes teachers can help combat this slump by supplying the

resources that parents will need for the holiday period. “Furthermore, they should follow up with parents after the holidays and also provide feedback.”

“Teachers can encourage children to keep a record of all the books they read during the holidays. They could be rewarded during the term for the most books read and reviewed. At the end of the year, each grade acknowledges a reader who qualifies for a merit award,” says Dindar.

Clarke suggests that schools allow pupils access to the school library during the holidays or offer a regular daily story hour. Alternatively pupils should be encouraged to borrow books from the school library that they can read over the holidays.

Teachers could meet with parents before the school closes to brief them on the importance of keeping their children stimulated over the holidays. They could also provide parents with a recommended list of age-appropriate activities to do.

Teachers could go the extra mile by putting together holiday packs filled with activities for the children to do over this period.

recommended resources printable worksheets • e-classroom.co.za • tlsbooks.com • abcteach.com • schoolexpress.com audiobooks • storynory.com • lightupyourbrain.com/stories children’s activity book • freestuff.co.uk/free-kidsactivity-book

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eeping holiday boredom at bay is not the only thing you should be concerned about when the term ends. Shereen Dindar, an education specialist and life coach from Mpumalanga, says the holiday slump occurs when “children tend to ‘switch off’ their brains to school-related work such as reading, writing or studying”. Their minds, tuned into television and computer games, become sluggish and they experience a regression in terms of what they learnt at school during the term. Primary school teacher Marthie van Rooyen from the North West, believes that this regression is most likely to occur during the long winter and summer holidays, as children generally lose interest in school work due to a lack of stimulation during this lengthy period of downtime.

A number of studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of a long-term school break. In Summer Learning Loss: The Problem and Some Solutions, published in the Education Resources Information Centre Digest, education professor Harris Cooper found that the test scores of pupils in the US were at least one month behind when they returned to school after the summer holiday.

Learning loss was more pronounced for maths and spelling than for other tested skill areas, as they benefit from regular practice.

Maths competency was found to be lower than reading after a long break, as parents are more likely to encourage children to read than revise their numeracy skills at home.

Ensuring that your children keep active during the holidays is a sure way to avoid the “holiday slump”. Alan Clarke, a Cape Townbased education consultant, believes that, “anything that engages the child actively, whether intellectually or physically, is good for them”.

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education

brain-boosting activities for all ages toddlers and preschoolers • Provide your children with a tactile experience by hiding small toys in a bowl of rice, beans or oats and letting them look for these objects. To strengthen fine motor skills, these small toys could also be hidden in playdough.

• Print out a large alphabet to fit a sheet of paper. Put the paper inside a plastic sleeve. Give your child play dough to roll out and place onto the alphabet helping them practice writing their letters.

• Get creative with finger paint, splatter paint, paint with brushes and even body paint.

• Invest in educational DVDs that teach children their alphabet, numbers and colours. That way if they must watch TV, let it be something they can learn from.

• If you have an iPad, download electronic books. Audio books are also great for toddlers.

• There are many great YouTube animated videos on counting and learning the alphabet. Watch them with your children.

• Let your children scribble with bath crayons while they bath.

• Make simple picture books with your children using old photos and magazines. Write the name of the object at the top of the picture and then encourage them to read their own books.

• Create themed sensory bins that contain rice and theme-orientated three-dimensional objects. You could also include cups and a magnifying glass, which enables them to use the sensory tub in many different ways.

• Build puzzles and play board games.

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grades 1 to 3 • Get the children to help you in the kitchen. Encouraging them to measure out the ingredients themselves, provides a learning and tactile experience.

• Story time should be a part of your everyday routine.

• Invest in activity books that can be purchased from book shops.

• Get the children to write out your grocery lists for you as you dictate to them.

• When out shopping let them pay at the till, helping them check to see if they have paid the right amount and have received the right amount of change.

• Encourage them to “shop” with paper money.

• If they can go to work with mom or dad, let them accompany you. Then keep them busy with activities such as filing and typing. grades 4 to 7 • Visit museums and places of historical interest.

• Play sports with them and let them keep score.

• Get creative with more challenging art and crafts.

• Have them type out recipes or documents for you.

• Encourage them to correspond with pen pals.

• Get them to write out their own thank-you notes for gifts received.

• Have your children keep a diary during their holidays where they write about their daily activities.

For more on the importance of reading to your child, click on childmag.co.za/content/reading-out-loud

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my story

what my mother taught me Author Alexandra Fuller, who has captured the spirit of her eccentric mother in two

couple of years ago, while renowned author Alexandra Fuller was working to a terrible deadline, her young son shouted up to her, asking what was for supper. Fuller’s reply to him was, “I don’t know. There’s a cookery book in the kitchen. Make supper yourself, even if it’s runny scrambled eggs.” Fuller, who wrote Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight (Picador), in which she candidly recalls her unruly African childhood on farms in the then Rhodesia, and Malawi and Zambia in the 1970s and 1980s, believes her childhood influenced her mothering style. She grew up during a civil war in a country where minefields, disease and poverty were rife, and with a mother who was an alcoholic and a manic-depressive, who lost three young children. The book relates warts-and-all anecdotes about her sometimes emotionally absent mother – some humorous, others deeply poignant.

nicola fuller of central africa Her mother, Nicola Fuller, famously hated the book and for years introduced her daughter by saying, “This is my American daughter who writes books about not being hugged enough”. Fuller wrote a sequel, Cocktail Hour

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Under the Tree of Forgetfulness (Simon and Schuster), which focuses on the remarkable life of her mother, who preferred to be known as Nicola Fuller of Central Africa. The New York Times Book Review describes her as “one of the most memorable characters of African memoir”. A beautiful,

While she might joke about her mother’s parenting skills, Fuller, who now lives with her husband and three children in Wyoming, has actually learnt a great deal of mothering wisdom from her endearingly eccentric mother.

lessons learnt

She was the sort of mother who got on a horse and got on with her day. If you couldn’t keep up with her, it was your funeral. larger-than-life woman who loved Africa, she was the kind of mother who lived more for animals than children and would shout “Emergency!” whenever she found her glass empty.

She married the quieter Tim Fuller, who had come to Kenya as a young man to “see a giraffe and escape alcoholic relatives”, but who ended up having to go off to “fight the terrorists” while his wife tended to the cattle and children, and killed the snakes.

Speaking during a visit to Cape Town to promote her latest book, Fuller says, “One of the first things I learnt is that a person isn’t going to do much to save the world if they can’t keep their bedroom clean. She taught me that you don’t want to end up with children who can’t take care of themselves or other people. She drummed into her children from an early age that they must be each other’s advocates.

She’d say, ‘Here’s your little sister. Take her hand.’”

Fuller, who enjoys a “conversational” relationship with her children, believes in setting firm ground rules. “I stress to them that if they have a problem, they are welcome to sit down with me and talk about it. I don’t mind confrontation, but I cannot stand it when people lose the dignity of their own intelligence. I talk with my children non-stop, especially my son. I’m terrified of raising a misogynist. No issues are off the table. They are highly aware of the issues

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PHOTOGRAPHS AND ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / Ian Murphy

a

magical books, speaks to SUE SEGAR about what she learnt from this indomitable woman.

that the world faces, such as climate change. I ask them every day, ‘how did you change the world today?’ What’s the moral responsibility of having freedom of speech if you just sit there with tape over your mouth?”

Fuller believes there is nothing as wrong as a parent who thinks that their role is to protect their children from the world, rather than prepare them for it. From her mother, Fuller learnt the basics of child-rearing: “that both dogs and children require plenty of fresh air and exercise”.

Fuller says, “Every evening, she would take us on death marches; she still does it with my own children. On our last visit, she took the children for a walk. There were bees in the baobab trees. When the bees started swarming, she yelled ‘save the dogs’. My daughter said to her afterwards, ‘You were more interested in the dogs’ and she replied: ‘Children – easy come, easy go!’”

an unconventional upbringing Fuller’s take on materialism, ageing and death are influenced by her experiences as a child. “I watch my children growing up in a materialistic, Western culture where people try and defend themselves against the inevitability of age and death by acquiring more and more stuff and by treating death as taboo. Growing up as I did, death was background noise in our lives. I have actively spoken to my children about ageing

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and death, while the Western media seems to scream out every week about a new product or vitamin that will save us.

It’s so self-indulgent and it’s precisely the sort of thing my mother would have no truck with.”

This passionate reader, who does not have a television set at home, was introduced to Shakespeare by her mother, “before we could walk”. Her sister, Vanessa, firmly believes that her abiding hatred of reading dates back to hearing Troilus and Cressida read to her while in the womb. Known as “Bobo” in her family, Fuller grew up understanding that she’d been born to “replace” Adrian, the baby before her who had died. Her little sister Olivia drowned and then a baby brother died before coming home from hospital, after which her mother had a nervous breakdown. She says, “We all hope that our children are going to have an easy life, but I am not sure that life is all about bubbles and ease. Suffering is inevitable. My mother was not the textbook mother. She was the sort of mother who got on a horse and got on with her day. If you couldn’t keep up with her, it was your funeral.

If you forgot to take water, it was your problem. She was very nurturing when we were babies, but if you try and kiss her, she grimaces and becomes a frozen corpse. She can’t stand being touched or kissed.

“I have strong memories of her taking baby Olivia out onto the veranda and gently holding her and singing

‘Everybody loves my baby’, but that sense of gentleness, would end quite quickly.” She adds, “My mother never ever allowed us to feel entitled. Be grateful for what you have while you have got it and don’t ever whine.”

Despite having been raised by this damaged and sometimes remote woman, Fuller has a powerful love for her mother, having once said that a child never stops longing for a mother who is inaccessible. Fuller used to sniff her mother’s handkerchief at boarding school, just to be reminded of that smell of Vicks and tea. “I always knew she loved me, in a tough, look-after-yourself kind of way.”

So, has she spent hours in therapy because her mother didn’t hug her enough? “Gosh no,” says Fuller. “She’s ended up being the most wonderful mother to have, and I’ve learnt so much from her.”

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warm the soul With JENNY MORRIS’ loving approach to everything from salads, soups and breads, to meats and veggies, Cooking with Jenny Morris will inspire the family gathering for this Father’s Day.

broad bean, new potato and bacon salad with deep-fried leeks

mussel meat and leek risotto topped with prawns

My garden is never without broad beans. I grow hundreds of the plants to keep me in a steady supply. So much of the broad bean plant is edible at different stages of its development. I often pick the beans when they are only half developed and the seeds in the pods are still small; I slice them with the pod, cook them lightly and toss them in garlic butter. I make delicious bean dips with them, and add them to stews. I pinch out about 10cm of the growing tips and cook them like spinach – yummy. My friend Enzo Cocca taught me to lightly batter them and fry them – delicious.

I have the time of my life picking huge piles of beautiful fat swollen broad beans from my garden, munching as I go and thinking of all the wonderful things I can do with them.

Please try this salad.

In case you have never made risotto with me before, I like to do it like this: you need time and patience for making a risotto.

You spend a lot of time at the pot, keeping it moist and when all the moisture cooks away, wet it again. The end result should be creamy and tender – well worth the time spent. So get your glass of wine… and stay with the heat.

the salad • 300g new potatoes, boiled till tender, cooled and sliced • 4 baby leeks, thinly sliced and deep-fried • 250g streaky bacon, crisply fried and chopped (keep the pan) • 2 cups lightly steamed broad beans • freshly ground black pepper • salt, to taste garlic thyme dressing • ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves • ¼ cup red wine vinegar • 1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives

1. Place the potatoes, leeks, bacon and beans in a shallow dish, and season with black pepper and a little salt.

2. When mixing the dressing, pour the olive oil in the pan in which you cooked the bacon, add the garlic, thyme and vinegar to the pan and warm gently to lift off all the lovely bacon flavour. Remove from the heat and stir in the mustard and chives.

3. Pour the warm dressing onto the potatoes and beans, and stir gently to coat.

2 teaspoons olive oil 3 tablespoons butter 1 onion, peeled and finely chopped 3 leeks, white part only, thinly sliced 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 cup uncooked risotto rice 5 cups boiling chicken stock ½ cup dry white wine cup grated Parmesan 300g mussel meat 200g prawn meat ¾ cup cream ½ cup roughly chopped Italian parsley 3 tablespoons snipped chives salt and pepper, to taste

Serves 4

tip: Keep the stock hot at all times. I also love to add little cubes of roasted red pepper to this risotto as a garnish.

did you know?

Once rice has been cooked, you have to take good care of it. If rice left from your dinner has stood at room temperature overnight, bacteria will have a field day; they will multiply at an alarming rate and cause food-poisoning toxins that will leave you sick, so throw out any rice that has been left out overnight. If you want to reuse any leftovers the next day to make egg-fried rice, run some cold water through the rice, bag it and put it into the fridge straightaway. Remember that bacteria can make you really ill; do not keep cooked rice for longer than two days in the fridge and never reheat it more than once.

Serves 4

tip: When making a salad dressing, choose good-quality vinegar; you don’t want your guests gagging and choking from the fumes of a cheap and nasty version. You can use red kidney beans or butter beans for the salad when broad beans are out of season.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: DANIE NEL PHOTOGRAPHY

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

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1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a saucepan and fry the onion and leeks gently till they are soft – don’t burn them.

When translucent, add the garlic and rice, and stir well to coat the rice.

2. Add a third each of the stock and the wine, stirring constantly. Simmer until almost all the liquid has been absorbed.

Repeat until the stock and wine have all been used and the rice is tender. Cooking time should be 35 to 40 minutes.

3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and mussel and prawn meat. Add the cream, and warm the mussels and prawns through.

Stir in the herbs, season with salt and pepper, and serve. I like to enrich it with a spoon of butter and then serve with a huge green salad.

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smoked salmon and asparagus pasta parcels This is one of my favourite sauces; it’s chunky and delicious stirred through angel hair pasta or served layered under sheets of pasta for a dinner party. Caress anything with a blanket of this delicious sauce.

• 250g fresh green asparagus • 400g smoked salmon • 1 tablespoon butter • 2 cloves garlic, crushed • 1 tablespoon green peppercorns in brine • 2 cups fresh cream • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill • 1 tablespoon capers • 4 spring onions with tops, thinly sliced • 8 sheets of cooked lasagne • freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional) 1. Lightly steam the asparagus and drain.

I’m watching you, don’t over cook them now. Divide into eight portions and set aside. Divide the salmon into eight portions and set aside with the asparagus.

2. Heat the butter gently and add the garlic and green peppercorns. Cook for a minute

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or so, then add the cream and cook till the mixture is reduced by a third. Stir in the dill, capers and spring onions, and remove from the heat.

3. Now let’s put the parcels together.

Lay the pasta sheets out on a flat surface. In the centre of each sheet place the asparagus and top with smoked salmon. Spoon over some sauce, roll the parcels up, place onto four hot plates (allowing two per person) and top with the remaining sauce.

4. Dust with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with fresh lemon wedges, a huge green salad and a really chilled glass of what you fancy, and eat instantly.

Serves 4

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slow, lazy man lamb Okay boys, this dish is simple and easy enough to prepare. This gives us girls the night off – time to take a nice deep bubble bath and, hello, no headache. the lamb • 2kg free-range lamb, (nice-sized leg or shoulder) • 1 tablespoon olive oil • salt and pepper • large stem fresh rosemary • 1 cup chicken or vegetable stock • juice of 1 lemon the vegetables • 6 celery stalks, roughly chopped • 4 peeled carrots, roughly chopped • 1 large head of garlic • 2 onions, peeled and thickly sliced • 4 large potatoes, washed and cut into thick rounds • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 1 tablespoon olive oil • salt and pepper magazine joburg

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C. Toss all the vegetable ingredients together and place them at the bottom of a large roasting pan.

2. Oil the lamb and season with salt and pepper. Brown gently in a frying pan and remove. Place the rosemary stem onto the vegetables, top with the lamb, pour in the stock and lemon juice, and seal with foil.

Just forget about it for 2½ hours.

3. Check for tenderness. You will know that the meat is ready when it falls away from the bone.

4. Serve with a mound of buttery, garlicky polenta.

Serves 4

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book extract

figgy panettone bread and butter pudding I can’t imagine my life without a fig in it. This sexy, sweet, juicy-fleshed, biblical fruit, full of crunchy seeds, transports me to paradise.

Even the thought of a wasp making her home inside the body of the fig for a short while doesn’t turn me off, unlike some people I know.

When figs are really ripe, the juice oozes out of them and that is the way it should be. I am lucky to own two fig trees and I have to fight with the birds to keep the fruit on the tree for as long as possible so that they can ripen. Figs have stacks of potassium and they contain impressive amounts of fibre, so let your body make full use of them when they are in season.

The wonderful thing about a fig is that it freezes so well; when my fig trees are swollen with more fresh fruit than I know what to do with, I always open-freeze a few kilos. Then I can make this delicious pudding long after the season is over.

• 10 figs, sliced lengthways into quarters • 125ml honey • ¾ cup dried cranberries • 1 medium panettone, cut into 5 thick slices • 2 whole eggs • 2 extra egg yolks • grated zest of 1 orange • 30ml castor sugar • 500ml cream • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon sugar, for sprinkling

tip:

1. Butter a 1,5-litre ovenproof dish. Place half the sliced figs on the bottom of the dish, drizzle with honey, and scatter on the cranberries.

2. Cut each slice of panettone into 4 triangles and pack them onto the sliced figs. Mix together the eggs, extra egg yolks, orange zest, sugar, cream and cinnamon, and pour over the panettone.

Leave to stand, covered, for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Arrange the remaining sliced figs over the pudding, sprinkle with a little sugar and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until crisp and lightly browned on top.

4. Serve warm or even deliciously cold the next day.

Serves 6

If you don’t have panettone, you can use five thick slices of raisin bread instead.

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about the book Cooking with Jenny Morris (Sunbird Publishers) opens the door to the Giggling Gourmet’s kitchen and is a definitive collection of culinary ideas, with its A–Z index of ingredients and corresponding recipes. For instance, you’ll learn 10 different ways to work with goat’s cheese and 26 unique seafood and fish recipes. Jenny’s tips and tales, such as how she used to pick mussels off the rocks with her dad, will help you set the scene as much as they’ll show you how to prepare the dish. Cooking with Jenny Morris is available from all good book stores.

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blog

a digital diet Techno-dependent father DUSTER MOYO and his daughter learn how to drop their virtual weight and reclaim their relationship.

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

m

y eight-year-old daughter suffers from night terrors and will see imaginary vampires when I walk into her room to close the curtains. When I recently walked into her room to console her while she was having one of her nightmares, she yelled, “Dad, switch off your Blackberry!”

That was a turning point for me; making me realise that technology has taken over our lives. Our children text, email and tweet as if they are training for the Olympics, and they must improve their speed daily to make the grade.

Yet despite our virtual and boundless digital connections with people, many of us feel overwhelmed and isolated, unsure of how to interact normally with our children.

We blame Xboxes, PlayStations, smartphones, tablet computers and laptops for stealing us away from our children, things we love and people in general, but we are really our own worst enemies. Do a quick census

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of your digital life with the following questions: 1) Do you allow your child to parry questions about her school maths project while she fiddles on her smartphone? 2) Do you find yourself checking your LinkedIn profile or reading documents on Google while your daughter complains about her violin lessons? 3) Do you or your children feel that something has only really happened once they have shared it with their peers on MXit? and 4) Does your child get restless if his data airtime is up and he can’t go online?

If you answered yes to any of these, then you are not alone.

I too have lost contact with my children and people around me. We no longer have anything meaningful to say to each other when we are offline and in each other’s presence. So I sought the help of a psychologist to reclaim my relationship with my daughter. She drew up a three-step digital diet, starting with a detox. My daughter had to spend three days of the week without her laptop or smartphone, to rediscover herself, and her relationship with me.

Then my daughter’s “virtual weight index” was calculated using a formula that measures how much she is weighed down by her use of gadgets and social networks to communicate. She was told that unless she

cut down on her use of technology, she would suffer from “digital obesity”. Our psychologist also showed us techniques beyond the hazy social networks that we can use to improve our relationship.

I set up dates and timetables of when she could be online to answer friends’ tweets, reply to emails or search for information. This showed her that technology should be an aid and not an obsession. I encouraged her to re-establish friendships by walking to friends’ houses instead of just “liking” their Facebook profiles. For the first time in a while, she is rediscovering the art of conversation.

With technology absent from the dinner table, she no longer almost loses her head in the salad bowl when she battles a cheating player in an online game. The digital diet has given us a healthy approach to technology, and improved our father-daughter relationship.

Moyo is a scriptwriter and a proud father of one.

Readers, this is your column – it’s a space to air your views, share a valuable parenting lesson, vent your frustrations or celebrate your joys. Send your writing to features@childmag.co.za

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romance me Here are some charming ways to spend much-needed quality time with your partner.

By SIMONE JEFFREY steam train trip

Situated on the roof of the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is one of the last drive-ins in Gauteng. Bring blankets and chairs if you’re sitting outside or snuggle up in the car while the latest blockbuster movies play on the big screen. Picnic baskets filled with cheeseburgers, chips, chocolate, popcorn and sparkling wine can be ordered from the Rooftop Café or you can bring your own picnic baskets filled with all your favourites. Gates open at 6pm, with the first movies starting at 7:30pm. Tickets cost R65 for movie nights from Monday to Saturday (two screenings a night) and R30 for Sunday movie night (one screening). Contact: 012 471 0627 or visit menlynpark.co.za

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sizzling night If you have a yearning for steak then you will not be disappointed by the menu selection at Wombles Steakhouse. Offering a cozy fireplace and decorated with deep reds and dark woods, the restaurant is classic and timeless, much like the food they serve. Though their specialty is the man-sized steak portions and sauces, there are other food items on the menu catering to those who prefer other delicacies. The restaurant opened in 1984 in Zimbabwe and has since travelled and settled at 17 3rd Ave, Parktown North. Contact: 011 880 2470/3, wombles@wombles. co.za or visit wombles.co.za

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com / petra stuart

rooftop drive-in

Take a day trip out of the city aboard a steam locomotive. As the train chugs towards Magaliesburg or Cullinan, puffing steam and whistling along the way, you can recline and watch the countryside flicker past. Two rail companies operate in Gauteng: Reefsteamers and Friends of the Rail. Reefsteamers departs for Magaliesburg from Johannesburg Park Station and offers private compartments and coupés or single seating (seats are in pairs facing each other). Friends of the Rail travel to the quaint diamond-mining town of Cullinan and around Tshwane, departing from Hermanstad Station in Pretoria. Contact Reefsteamers: 011 025 4363, bookings@reefsteamers.com or visit reefsteamers.com or Friends of the Rail: 012 767 7913 or visit friendsoftherail.com

coupled up and cooking Bond with your loved one as you mix, chop, spice and learn to create six new dishes to add to your repertoire. No more packet soups and take-aways; now you can learn cooking techniques for exotic Indian, Thai, Spanish or Japanese dishes.

The theme of each class varies so check what the school has scheduled to be sure you can make the dishes that interest you.

Classes are kept to a minimum of eight and a maximum of 12 people per class, ensuring all your questions are answered.

Classes take place every Monday at 6pm, or every second Sunday at 4pm. Wicked Cooking School, 4th floor, The Square Shopping Centre, Sunninghill. Contact: 076 236 2345, sunninghill@wickedfood. co.za or visit wickedfood.co.za

up at the lake Early mornings and lazy afternoons can be spent rowing on Zoo Lake where there are a multitude of birds eager to nibble on scraps of bread. The park is a popular picnicking venue on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds make your way to the lake early in the morning and spend lunchtime at the nearby Moyo’s or the many bistro-style restaurants that line the sidewalks of 4th Ave, Parkhurst. Rowing from May to August is 9:30am–4:30pm and from September to April from 9:30am–5pm (closed on Monday). Rowing costs R10.

Contact: 011 646 5803

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peace of Bali Spend quality time with your significant other as you both recharge in the exclusive Spa Bali Garden. The Balinese Spa Gardens were built entirely from imported items from Bali, including the stone roof tiles. Surrounded by the tranquil sounds of bubbling water and nature you can treat yourselves to a relaxing soak, a pressure point foot massage and a candle wax massage. Complete the spoil with a three-course breakfast, lunch or dinner and sparkling wine. The treatments last approximately four hours at R3 000 per couple. Alma Rd, off Bowling Ave, Morningside Manor ext 6, Sandton. Contact: 011 804 2540/1, spa@fairlawns.co.za or visit fairlawns.co.za

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up, up and away Rolling out of bed before the sun has risen to make your way to a launch site is made worthwhile when you hear the billowing sounds of multi-coloured hot air balloons being inflated. Once you’ve been briefed on what to expect from the hot-air balloon ride, you are escorted into the basket to get whisked over the Magaliesberg Mountain Range, the Waterberg or Mabula Game Reserve. The unforgettable experience is enhanced by the crisp morning light and the breakfast served at the Clubhouse Pavilion Restaurant after the flight. The ride takes place in the Magalies River Valley. For those who are unable to wake up so early there is the Hyundai Balloon, situated at Montecasino in Fourways and the Mushroom Farm in Sandton, offering a romantic sunrise or sunset ride with cocktails. Contact Bill Harrop’s: 011 705 3201, 083 443 2661, child@balloon.co.za or visit balloon. co.za; or Hyundai Balloon: 083 626 1477 or maxine@aerialdisplays.co.za

supping and stargazing View the rings of Jupiter and the craterpocked moon and then sit down to Frenchstyle cuisine served in The Observatory restaurant at The Aloe Ridge Hotel and Game Reserve. Guests are invited up, table by table, to the 16-inch Meade Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope to get a close-up view of the solar system. From March to August the shows take place most Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30pm and from September to February at 7:30pm for 8pm. Shows are weather permitting. Food costs vary with a 10 percent gratuity being added to every food bill; the astronomy tour costs R100.

The venue offers an indoor heated pool, overnight accommodation and game drives.

Beyers Naudé Dr, Zwartkops, Muldersdrift.

Contact: 011 957 2070, aloereservations@ mweb.co.za or visit aloeridgehotel.com

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vintage antics With your own chauffeur-driven vintage automobile, a night on the town can take on an old-world charm when gentlemen wore cravats and bowler hats and women pinafores and petticoats. You can choose between classic vintage cars such as a Buick, Rolls Royce, Bentley and a 1959 Mercedes Benz convertible or a modern VW Beetle or Mini Cooper Limo. Each car comes with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. Get driven around the winding roads of Houghton and Northcliff, with panoramic views of the city, to your favourite restaurant or cocktail bar knowing that your designated driver will get you home safely when the evening has wound down.

Contact Carrie-Anne or Johnny: 011 555 0924/0909, info@limo.co.za or visit limo.co.za

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river meander Navigate 57 kilometres of the Vaal River at a leisurely pace onboard a fully-equipped, self-catering Leisureliner 260 houseboat. As you meander down the twists and turns of the river you can fish, bird watch, sun tan and play water sports, or pay a visit to some of the attractions located around the Vaal: Emerald Resort and Casino, Riverside Lifestyle Resort and Stonehaven on Vaal to name a few.

There is a minimum stay of two nights over weekends and three nights over long weekends. 37 Windsor on Vaal, Loch Vaal. Contact: 016 987 5184, 084 606 3339, info@freesefamily.net or visit cruise-n-snooze.co.za

all under one roof Crackling fires keep you warm and mesmerised as you recline on the San Deck’s plush sofas and watch the sun set over Sandton. Fill up on breakfast, lunch or dinner at the grand café-style eatery of the San Restaurant and enjoy your night at the trendy San Bar with booths that are perfect for a quiet, after-dinner aperitif. A favourite is the fragrant Cheese Room, where a cheese sommelier offers information on the 18 different cheeses, which you can enjoy there or take home. Open Tuesday–Saturday from 6:30pm. Sandton Sun, cnr 5th St and Alice St, Sandton. Contact: 011 780 5000 or visit southernsun.com

berry breakaway Grab a basket, hat and sunscreen for a day out in the country picking strawberries.

Strawberry picking takes place, weather dependent, from October and lasts approximately until early December. It takes place every Saturday, Sunday and public holiday from 10am to 4pm.

During the strawberry season picnic baskets are available to order or you are welcome to bring your own picnic or braai and relax under the trees next to the dam. All year round you can relax in the Pamper Spa enjoying full-day, half-day or night-spa packages and dine at the Fraise restaurant.

Booking is essential. Costs vary. Skeerpoort, Brits.

Contact: 012 207 1116, 082 503 5996, info@tangaroa. co.za or visit tangaroa.co.za or fraise.co.za

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picnic horse trail You can explore the Hekpoort Valley on calm and well-trained trail horses traversing over bushveld dotted with game and farmland as you make your way down to the banks of the Magalies River for a romantic picnic.

Beginners are accompanied by a qualified guide, while advanced riders can choose to select more “spirited horses�. The ride departs at 11am, Monday to Friday, and takes approximately 90 minutes. At R650 per person, or R500 during the week, you are treated to a picnic with a bottle of sparkling wine (non-alcoholic is available), a CD with photos, and for R100 you can arrange flowers. Contact Sam: 079 467 9906/7, horseridingsa@ yahoo.com or visit horseridingsa.co.za

a gorge getaway Two-and-a-half hours away from Joburg, nestled in the gorge of the Steenkampsburg Mountains in Mpumalanga, you’ll find Forest Creek Lodge. Sip champagne while bathing under the stars in the bush bath or outdoor stone shower, allow yourself some pampering at the Forest Spa overlooking the gorge and enjoy a romantic private dinner under the gazebo. Feeling revitalised, take advantage of the fresh air and vast expanse of the gorge with a picnic at a waterfall, trout fishing, horse riding, clay-pigeon shooting, elephant rides, game drives and jet skiing. Farm 14, Badfontein, Dullstroom. Contact Anita: 013 235 8925, 073 256 4478, forestcreek@lando.co.za or visit forestcreek.co.za

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books

a good read for toddlers

for preschoolers

Pip and Posy – The Scary Monster

By Axel Scheffler (Published by Nosy Crow, R120) Posy is happily baking cakes when a scary monster appears at the window. Poor Posy gets the fright of her life until she sees that it’s not a real monster after all, but Pip dressed in a costume. This is a funny story with subtle lessons about being brave and taking turns. There are five books in this series, recommended for toddlers from the age of two. Axel Scheffler, whose artwork is inspired by his young daughter, is the best-selling illustrator of many favourite children’s picture books, including the award-winning The Gruffalo, which has been translated into over 40 languages.

Dinosaur Dig!

By Penny Dale

for th e boys

(Published by Nosy Crow, R66) This beautifully illustrated book by Ten in the Bed author Penny Dale combines young boys’ favourite subjects – digging, dirt, driving fast – and most important of all, dinosaurs. With a great story line, lots of absorbing detail and even some counting, the books are full of energy. Dinosaur Zoom!, the second book in the series for children from age two, will be released later this year. In this book the dinosaurs are back and this time they’ll be revving, roaring and racing at a dinosaur birthday party. The sturdy board book is easy to clean and is sure to become a favourite with your little boy.

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Finding Aunt Joan and Swimming in the Sun

By Jenny Hatton; illustrated by Joan Rankin (Published by Jacana Media, R40) While you can read these books to your pre-schooler, this delightful new series also helps beginner readers build their reading confidence. The exquisite illustrations bring the series to life and children will easily relate to the stories as they reflect true-to-life events such as going on a journey, moving house and visiting the beach. The rhythmic text of the Lucy books will help build children’s reading skills and confidence while they are absorbed in the humorous illustrations and the lives of Lucy’s family.

Why Dog is afraid of Storms

By Maryanne Bester; illustrated by Shayle Bester (Published by Jacana Media, R72) Have you ever wondered why dogs are so afraid of thunderstorms? In this story, poor Dog has never experienced a thunderstorm before. When his best friend asks him to take care of the cattle for a while, Dog is all too happy to sit outside the kraal watching the cows and bulls graze in the shade. But the mischievous cattle want nothing more than to be let out so they start offering Dog all kinds of treats, including a mad race around the dam, if he would only let them out. Dog refuses at first, but eventually gives in – with life-changing consequences.

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africa n tales

for preschoolers The Baboon Who Went to the Moon and Hoppy Christmas

By John Bush and Mary Henry McMillan; illustrated by John Bush and JC Phillips (Published by Storytime Africa, from R69) These beautifully illustrated books, which are packed with humour, have a distinct African theme. In the first book, Baboon sees the moon shine full in the sky and tries to get there, but he soon realises that the moon is a lot further away than it seems. Undaunted, he remains determined to get there. His antics make for hilarious reading and portray just how far determination can take you. In the second book, Santa gets trapped in the Okavango in mud as mushy as an overripe mango. Stuck and sinking fast, will this Christmas be Santa’s last? For direct orders, contact funtasee@cybersmart.co.za

for early graders

Sophie and the Shadow Woods – The Goblin King

By Linda Chapman and Lee Weatherly (Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R55) Six gems, one key and one guardian to save the world – Sophie. On her 10th birthday, Sophie’s life changes forever. As the new guardian of a magic gateway in the mysterious Shadow Woods, her mission is to stop the mischievous creatures that live there from entering our world. But disaster strikes when the Goblin King steals the key to the gateway. Girls from the age of seven will love this series. Also look out for The Swamp Boggles, The Spider Gnomes, The Fog Boggarts, The Icicle Imps and The Bat Sprites. You can also visit the website, sophieandtheshadowwoods.com for activity sheets and other fun games.

Mega Mash-Up – Pirates v Ancient Egyptians in a Haunted Museum and Aliens v Mad Scientists Under the Ocean

By Nikalas Catlow and Tim Wesson (Published by Nosy Crow, from R65) These interactive books need your child’s imagination and drawing skills for their endings. In the first book, bloodthirsty pirates and crazy ancient Egyptians break into a haunted museum to steal a golden monkey. Will the spooky ghost turn against them and stop them in their tracks? The second book asks the questions: what if the earth was in peril and some mad scientists built a machine under the ocean to save the day? Would some pesky aliens come along and zap everything with their frazzelizers?

Would we end up as alien drones? Let your child finish the illustrations to find out and have a laugh while they draw.

for preteens and teens The Peppers and the International Magic Guys

By Siân Pattenden

a little bi of ma t gic

(Published by HarperCollins Children’s Books, R82) Take a peek behind the scenes at the wonderful world of the Peppers, a show-stopping adventure starring an unbeatable double act – the Pepper twins: Monty and Esmé. They are spending the summer holidays with their bumbling Uncle Potty, an enthusiastic member of the International Magic Guys organisation. So when it is threatened with closure, the twins must use every trick in the book to save it.

But no one can find the book; the escapologist is all tied up and the human cannonball has put Potty’s assistant out of action. Can the twins still pull off the performance of a lifetime?

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for preteens and teens

Twelve Minutes to Midnight

By Christopher Edge

Olivia and the Movie Stars

By Lyn Gardner

(Published by Nosy Crow, R91) It’s 1899 and every night at 12 minutes to midnight the inmates of Bedlam, London’s notorious hospital for the insane, rise from their beds and scribble strange words on any surface they can find. Penelope Tredwell is the feisty 13-year-old orphan heiress of the bestselling magazine, The Penny Dreadful. Her masterly tales of the macabre have Victorian Britain gripped, but no one knows she’s the real author. One day a letter, which Penelope receives from the governor of the notorious Bedlam madhouse, plunges her into an adventure more terrifying than she could ever imagine. A thriller with a fast-paced cinematic style, Twelve Minutes to Midnight is an electrifying story from an exciting new author for children from the age of 10.

(Published by Nosy Crow, R82) This is the third book in the brilliant stageschool series that began with Olivia’s First Term. In this instalment, the Swan Academy is under threat of being closed down by a building development next door. During the Academy’s rehearsals for Peter Pan, a series of mysterious accidents occur, which threatens to close the production, and Olivia’s dad, who is flying consultant, gets the blame. Olivia, however, gets to the root of the problem and uses her high-wire skills to get hold of the development plans and, with that, a protest campaign is organised.

But then another accident takes place – a rope has been cut through and Cosmo and Cosmina, the famous singing/acting twins from Hollywood, are nearly killed. Who is doing this… and why? This book is ideal for children from the age of nine.

for us We All Ran into the Sunlight

By Natalie Young

snugg le u and re p ad

(Published by Short Books, R130) In the summer of 1981, at a party held in the garden of a beautiful chateau in the village of Canas in southern France, a young man takes his life.

In doing so he hopes to bury a terrible family legacy.

Then comes the winter of 2010 and Kate and Stephen Glover, a young London couple, arrive in Canas. Kate, seeking escape from her marriage, is irrevocably drawn to the heart of the derelict chateau. What she cannot know is that her interest in the chateau will reawaken old ghosts. Moving between the post-war years and the present day, We All Ran into the Sunlight is a heartbreaking story of love, misplaced desire and the damage done when the truth is withheld.

Dr Luc’s Promise: Lose the Weight & Keep it off

By Luc Evenepoel (Published by Penguin Books, R199) In this ground-breaking book, Dr Luc Evenepoel explains why the basic ideas we are fed about dieting are often the very reason that we cannot lose weight. This book will give you the tools to re-engineer what you think you know about diets and dieting, allowing you to finally understand what is preventing you from attaining your ideal weight.

You’ll learn why juice is not any better than cola, why pasta is probably better than bread, but only if it’s not overcooked, and why you should never skip breakfast.

You’ll learn why you can lose weight from spending more time sleeping, how you can lose 15kg in a year by simply changing your crockery, why fussing about food is worse than relaxing about it, and why diets don’t work and slimming pills neither. magazine joburg

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books

for us In the Orchard, the Swallows

By Peter Hobbs

very able read

The Love and Death of Caterina

By Andrew Nicoll (Published by Quercus, R185) Chano Valdez is a celebrated writer.

He pens works of such astounding quality that he is known throughout his South American country and the world as the finest of his generation.

He lives a life of luxury, getting any woman he wants and enjoying the fruits of fame. But then things change. He gets writer’s block and can only come up with “the scrawny yellow cat crossed the road”. Then he meets Caterina; young, beautiful, talented and, best of all, she writes.

Convinced she will unlock his mind and help him to succeed, Chano finds himself falling for this wonderful girl, that is, until he murders her.

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(Published by Faber and Faber, R150) In the foothills of a mountain range in Northern Pakistan is a beautiful orchard – swallows dive silently over the branches, and the scent of jasmine threads through the air. Pomegranates hang heavy, their skins darkening to a deep crimson. Neglected now, the trees are beginning to grow wild, their fruit left to spoil.

Many miles away, a frail young man is flung out of prison gates.

Looking up, scanning the horizon for swallows in flight, he stumbles and collapses in the roadside dust. His ravaged body tells the story of 15 years of brutality. Just one image has held and sustained him – the thought of the young girl who left him dumbstruck with wonder all those years ago. But they were children then, and knew nothing of love, or cruelty. This is a tale of tenderness in the face of great and corrupt power.

Shaka the Great

By Walton Golightly (Published by Quercus Publishing, R225) It is 1826 and Shaka, king of the Zulus, has brutally consolidated his power and is ready to move against those who continue to resist his authority. But now a new tribe has emerged: white men from across the Great Water, claiming that they wish to trade with Shaka. As the king grows increasingly obsessed with these outsiders, he becomes oblivious to the threat growing from within his own court. Only Shaka’s loyal captain and his young sidekick have the power to thwart this conspiracy but to succeed, their wits need to be as sharp as their enemies’ knives. Seething with sorcery and betrayal, battles and intrigue, triumph and tragedy, Shaka the Great takes us to an empire at its zenith; to a time when the name Zulu began to echo around the world as a byword for courage and nobility.

Cook, Eat, Love, Grow

By Louise Westerhout (Published by Random House Struik, R140) The author delights in cooking for herself, her son, her family and friends, and seeing the results of good and wholesome food, as well as happy mealtimes. For her, cooking, eating and growing in the wonderful world of food is an integral part of enjoying life. This philosophy is reflected in her meal ideas and recipes for babies from four months old, as well as her family dishes. There is an emphasis on organic food and most of the 70-odd recipes are wheat- and sugar-free, with many options that are dairy-, egg- and gluten-free as well. You will find new ideas and healthy combinations using simple and inexpensive ingredients. The text will appeal to all parents as it encourages without being prescriptive. Louise shows that with a bit of practicality, it is simple to eliminate guesswork when it comes to feeding babies and children.

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parenting books

win

Top Tips for Toddler Tantrums

By Gina Ford (Published by Random House Struik, R115) Toddler tantrums can be stressful, embarrassing and upsetting, but Britain’s bestselling childcare author is here to help. In this guide, Gina Ford offers calm and practical advice on the seemingly uncontrollable behaviour that is common in the toddler years.

Explaining the causes of toddlers’ outbursts, Gina gives quick and easy tips on ways to prevent tantrums; how to calm a toddler when you see a tantrum coming and how to stay calm yourself. Other books by the same author that have proven helpful to many parents include, The Contented Toddler Years, The Contented Baby with Toddler Book, The Gina Ford Baby and Toddler Cookbook and The Complete Sleep Guide for Contented Babies and Toddlers.

l helpfu e guid

Parenting Apart

By Christina McGhee (Published by Random House Struik, R215) This is a comprehensive resource for separated and divorced parents wanting to raise happy and secure children. When a marriage ends, the most important thing parents can do is help their children through the difficult transition and remain united as parents even if they are no longer a couple. Divorce coach Christina McGhee offers practical advice on how to help children adjust and thrive during and after separation and divorce. She looks at all the different issues parents may face with their children at different ages, offering immediate solutions to the most critical parenting problems divorce brings.

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Sister Lilian’s Babycare Companion

By Sister Lilian (Published by Human & Rousseau, R217) Sister Lilian is South Africa’s loved and trusted baby-care expert and in this updated edition of her highly acclaimed guide, she equips new parents with facts and sensible advice on what to expect in your baby’s first year and how to learn to trust yourself as a new parent. She tackles common concerns such as colic, childhood disease, and feeding and sleeping problems. She also shows you how to establish a babyand parent-friendly routine, touches on breast- and bottle-feeding and weaning, teething, toilet training, developmental milestones and discipline. She gives meal ideas for first foods for babies and toddlers, shares health basics, including first aid and homoeopathic remedies, and gives tips on how to travel with very young children and advice for working parents.

Classic tales from Penguin Books can be yours The Beatrix Potter books are loved by children everywhere for their humorous, lively tales and beautiful illustrations. The Tale of Peter Rabbit turns 110 this year and to celebrate, Penguin Books has released a special collection of all the Beatrix Potter books. There are 23 titles in the collection and each book contains a publisher’s note explaining how that tale came to be. For more info: visit penguinbooks.co.za One reader stands a chance to win a Beatrix Potter hamper containing the first 10 books in the collection, valued at R850. Simply enter via childmag.co.za/wins-jhb and use the code “Peter Rabbit JHB”.

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calendar

what’s on in june

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 SIMONE JEFFERY

2 sat

special events

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FUN for children

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only for parents

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bump, baby & tot in tow

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how to help

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SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Douglasdale Dairy tours Learn about dairy processes, the products created and meet a few lovable calves.

Jeff Dunham the ventriloquist He’s back in South Africa with fresh material and new characters.

Bake, listen and create Serendipity offers a host of activities to keep children entertained for hours.

High tea for charity Show your support for children suffering with leukemia and enjoy a high tea and informative talk on flower healing.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Extreme Outdoor Show An exciting, adrenaline-packed show with sights, sounds and activities to entertain the whole family.

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SPECIAL EVENTS 1 friday Kingsmead book fair An interactive, engaging book fair with a high-profile line-up of local authors and media personalities set to attend. Expect Gareth Cliff, David Bullard and Michele Magwood to name a few.

There are interviews with authors, interactive workshops and food for sale. Ends 2 June.

Time: 5pm–late, Friday; 9am–5pm Saturday.

Venue: Kingsmead College, 132 Oxford Rd, entrance in Tottenham Ave, Melrose. Cost: adults R80, children R50. Contact Cailin: 011 713 7400 or visit kingsmead.co.za

Gauteng Motor Show It’s a showcase of all aspects of the motoring industry to entertain the whole family. Also 3 June. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Zwartkops Raceway, off the R55, Pretoria West. Cost: adults R80, children R40. Contact Alan: 082 344 0238 or visit gautengmotorshow.co.za

2 saturday An afternoon with Arno Carstens Enjoy an acoustic afternoon listening to Carstens and enjoying a light lunch. There is a large lawn where children can play, with childminders on hand. Space is limited. Time: 12pm. Venue: Monaghan Farm, Ashanti Rd, Lanseria. Cost: adults R265, children R80.

Contact: 087 630 0742, 078 031 6428 or theotherside@monaghanfarm.co.za Artists under the sun An exhibition of fine art and sculptures in all mediums, sizes and subjects. Wits has a stall where the public is invited to donate to their worthy cause. Also 3 June. Time: 9am–4pm.

Venue: Zoo Lake, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Westwold Way, Saxonwold. Cost: free. Contact Val: 083 470 1998 or visit artistsunderthesun.co.za Big walk and fun day Spend a fun Saturday morning taking part in the big walk and homemade hat parade. Browse the craft market of odds and ends to find interesting items. For children 2–7 years.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Elma Park Preprimary School, 17 Adjutant Rd, Elma Park, Edenvale. Cost: free. Contact Glynis or Carla: 011 453 9388 or elmaparkpps@mweb.co.za Extreme Outdoor Show An exciting, adrenaline-packed show with sights, sounds and activities to entertain the whole family. Take a flip in a helicopter, roll down a hill in a Zorb ball or take part in the Extreme Outdoor Man of the Year competition. Ends 3 June. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Meyerton. Cost: adults R50, children R20. Contact: 083 381 1705, info@extremeoutdoorshow.co.za or visit extremeoutdoorshow.co.za

2 sat

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2 June – Gauteng Motor Show

Oyster, Wine and Food Festival Make your way down to the lawns of the Commons to enjoy a few of the 40 000 oysters set to be served over the two-day festival. Thirty-two wine estates are there, as well as a host of gourmet exhibitors. Also 3 June. Time: 11am–6pm. Venue: Brightwater Commons, Republic Rd, Randburg. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 789 5052 or visit brightwatercommons.co.za

3 sunday Art and crafts in the park Roam Lonehill Park and view the wares from a wide selection of SA artists and crafters.

Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Lonehill Park, off Lonehill Boulevard. Cost: free. Contact: 082 560 1090 or shellmil@mweb.co.za

7 thursday Chilli Festival Whether you like your food mild, spicy or flaming hot, this festival celebrates the chilli pepper in all its forms.

Take part in chilli tastings, watch as the stage heats up during the celebrity cookoff and chef demonstrations or buy a handy kitchen gadget. Ends 10 June. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney. Cost: free. Contact: 011 646 4657 or kmmarketing@cityprop.co.za

N3TC Royal Drakensberg Mountain Bike Challenge People of all abilities can enjoy a weekend of cycling and trail running with beautiful views of the Drakensberg Mountains. There are various challenges, food on sale, a Kids Zone to supervise young children, and fun, exciting activities at the Adventure Centre. Also 3 June. Time: varies. Venue: Royal Drakensberg Primary School, D119 Rd, Bergville District, Northern Drakensberg. Cost: R30–R150.

Register online: roag.co.za or visit royal-drakensberg.org.za

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8 friday Outdoor Eco Adventure and Travel Expo Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts can find the latest products for their next adventure while enjoying the live entertainment and various food options available. Ends 10 June. Time: 10am–5pm.

Venue: Waterfall Polo Estate, cnr Maxwell Dr and Woodmead Dr, Kyalami, Midrand.

Cost: adults R50, pensioners and students R30, children 7–16 years R15, children under 7 free, secure parking R10. Contact: 011 803 9362 or visit outdoorexpo.co.za The Home Expo This expo boasts 120 stands offering DIY tips, fresh ideas for your kitchen through to your bathroom, and the latest home trends for 2012. Children are kept busy in the activity area while you find inspiration. Ends 10 June. Time: 10am–6pm.

Venue: Emperor’s Palace Arena, Jones Rd, East Rand. Cost: tbc. Contact: 086 038 368 or visit thehomeexpo.co.za

FreeMe talk and slide show

9 sat

A FreeMe representative gives a talk about the role that the organisation plays in the rehabilitation of injured and neglected animals and how the they have managed to survive on public donations. Booking essential. Time: 9am. Venue: Nestlé Environmental Education Centre, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, Poortview, Roodepoort. Cost: adult members R30, non-members R60, children under 12 R30, children under 6 free. Contact: 011 958 5177 or botsoc@sisulugarden.co.za

9 saturday Family day out Moms can create a chain maille and pewter project and/or a bar of soap from pure goat’s milk and coconut milk to take home, while the dads attend a beer-making demonstration and children create crafts at Jock’s Studio.

Time: 8am–11am. Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, off Beyers Naudé Dr and R114, Muldersdrift. Cost: craft special R200 (includes materials and refreshments); beer-making demonstration R90 for four beers; children’s crafts vary. Contact Joan: 083 326 5157

10 sunday Zoo trot The fun 5km or 10km run/ walk around the peaceful Johannesburg Zoo is perfect for those wanting to get fit, socialise or beat their previous record. Time: 7am–10am. Venue: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview. Cost: R35. Contact: 011 646 2000 or visit jhbzoo.org.za

14 thursday World Blood Donor Day Everyone can do the right thing by donating blood and helping to save a life. If you are aged between 17 and 65 years and weigh at least 50kg, you can donate blood. Time: varies. Venue: SA National Blood Service venues across Gauteng. Contact: 0800 119 031 or visit sanbs.org.za or who.int

15 friday

All ages. Ends 17 June. Time: 10am until 12pm the following day. Venue: tbc. Cost: tbc. Contact Christa: 083 304 0303, christa@ equalzeal.com or visit equalzeal.com Wiggle Waggle Day Bring along your dog (on a leash) for a 3km stroll along the river and enjoy the dancing, singing, Lego expo and jumping castles. Proceeds go to the SPCA. Donations of dog and cat food and old blankets welcome. Time: 8am.

Venue: Stonehaven on Vaal, Sylviavale Ah, Vaal River, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: adults R30, children R15. Contact: 016 982 2951 or visit stonehaven.co.za Youth Day at Morningside The Johannesburg Youth Orchestra performs at Morningside under the baton of conductor Eddie Clayton. Time: 12pm–1pm. Venue: Morningside Shopping Centre, cnr

Tri-Nations Adventure Weekend Dirt bikes, quads and side-by-sides are welcome to take part in an adventurous weekend that begins in South Africa, travels through Swaziland and ends at Ponta Sun in Mozambique on the Sunday. Booking essential. Ends 17 June. Time: tbc. Venue: tbc. Cost: adults R2 350 per rider, backup and non-riders R1 700, children under 12 R850 (includes first night’s accommodation and all meals). Contact: 011 979 1363, 072 177 0621, foleyg@mweb.co.za or visit familyadventures.co.za

16 saturday Father’s Day Adventure Camp Registrations for this fun and exciting fatherand-child adventure workshop close 4 June. magazine joburg

16 June – Wiggle Waggle Day June 2012

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23 sat

Rivonia Rd and Outspan Rd, Rivonia. Cost: free. Contact: Susan: 011 484 1257, 083 377 9445, info@orchestracompany.org.za or visit orchestracompany.org.za

17 sunday

McLaren Circus This circus features fast-paced acrobatics, hilarious clowns, rubber-limbed contortionists and an array of talented animals to amaze and astound you. Ends 15 July. Time: 12pm and 2:30pm.

Venue: Hippodrome, Gold Reef City; take the M1 South, Booysens exit. Cost: adults R160, students R120, children R100. Contact: 011 248 6800, info@goldreefcity.co.za or visit goldreefcity.co.za

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Father’s Day among the roses Celebrate Father’s Day and enjoy a tractor-train ride, visit a butterfly garden and enjoy lunch.

Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Spiced Coffee Restaurant, Ludwig’s Roses, N1 highway, Wallmannsthal off-ramp. Cost: varies.

Contact Talhat: 012 544 0144 or visit ludwigsroses.co.za Father’s Day lunch After sitting down to a home-cooked meal, try your hand at a spot of fishing in one of the many dams stocked with bass, carp, barbel and trout. Time: 1pm. Venue: The Anglers Arms Restaurant, Footloose Trout Farm and Conference Centre, off William Nicol Dr. Cost: R95. Contact Kim: 011 466 9911, 083 462 2779, kim@kendals.co.za or visit footloosetroutfarm.co.za Zoo fun day Young and old can enjoy a festive day at the Zoo and get their face painted, take part in activities and meet zoo ambassadors. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview.

Cost: adults R55, children R34. Contact: 011 646 2000 or visit jhbzoo.org.za

23 saturday Radio Astronomy Observatory The public can attend an open day and visit

the telescope control room and watch an audiovisual show on astronomy and the Space Geodesy Programme. Booking essential. Time: 4pm–8pm. Venue: CSIR and HartRAO, Hartebeeshoek, Broederstroom.

Cost: adults R45, students and pensioners R35, children under 6 free; family R120 (two adults and two children). Contact: 012 301 3100, aware@hartrao.ac.za or visit hartrao.ac.za

24 sunday Enter the Kinetic Adventure In a team of two you can run, cycle, paddle and manoeuvre your way through the 25km adventure race. Bring your running shoes, a bicycle and helmet (boats are provided).

Pre-entry is essential. For children 10 years and older. Time: registration 6:30am, start 8am. Venue: tbc. Cost: adult pair R600, child pair R500 (including maps, a gift, boats and paddles). Contact Heidi: 082 564 6468, heidi@kineticgear.co.za or visit kineticgear.co.za

30 saturday Eskom’s Lethabo Power Station Visit an Eskom power station where they create electricity from coal and find out what Eskom’s contribution is to a cleaner environment. Booking essential. Time: 10am. Venue: tbc. Cost: adult members R30, non-members R60, children R30.

Contact Karen: 011 958 5177 or botsoc@ sisulugarden.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Candle dipping Children feel a sense of pride after they’ve created their own multicoloured candle. The process takes about 30 minutes, with children supervised and guided throughout. Time: 9am–4pm, daily. Venue: Jocks Studio, Ngwenya Glass

29 friday Creative Craft Expo The A–Z of craft suppliers display their wares so that you may keep your creative juices flowing and your fingers busy this winter. Ends 1 July. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Emperor’s Palace Arena, Jones Rd, East Rand. Cost: adults R40, pensioners R30, children under 12 free. Contact: 0860 383 689 or visit creativecraftexpo.co.za

29 June – Creative Craft Expo

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Village, off Beyers Naudé Dr and R114, Muldersdrift. Cost: candle dipping R25.

Contact: 083 611 4350, info@jocksstudio. co.za or visit jocksstudio.co.za Hearts and crafts Children are introduced to crafts such as calligraphy, pewter, mosaics, mixed media, traditional and modern decoupage, paint techniques and more with an interactive demonstration.

30 June. Time: 9am–11:15am. Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, off Beyers Naudé Dr and R114, Muldersdrift. Cost: R120, includes tea and cake. Contact Joan: 083 326 5157 Heathway Children’s Art competition Heathway Square wants children to put their creativity on display. The artworks are to be judged with a prize-giving on 21 July.

There are three age categories: 5–7, 8–11, and 12–14 year olds. Entries close 30 June. Time: tbc. Venue: Heathway Square Shopping Centre, cnr Beyers Naudé Dr and Castle Hill Dr, Northcliff. Cost: free entry.

Contact Karin: 082 787 5855 Heritage tour of Berea Enjoy a ramble around the Berea neighbourhood, starting at the Johannesburg Girls’ Preparatory School, which was founded in 1899. 23 June. Time: 2pm. Venue: Fife Ave, Berea.

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

classes, talks and workshops Craft club Learn to transform your wardrobe in this informative three-hour workshop on

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tie-dyeing and lino printing. Bring along your own fabrics or garments. Bookings essential. 9 June. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Northriding. Cost: R350. Contact Melanie: 083 568 9150 or info@dyeandprints.co.za How to study Join a qualified youth life coach and learning specialist for a full-day workshop covering learning styles, summary techniques, setting up a timetable, study routine and exam visualisation, among other areas. For children in Grade 7–12. 9 June.

Time: 8:30am–4pm. Venue: Bryanston.

Cost: R1 000, includes refreshments and notes. Contact Kirsty: 011 326 0176 or kirsty.jackson@dore.co.za Little Chefs cooking school Children learn the names of fruit and vegetables, kitchen appliances and more about textures, smells and tastes as they create savoury and sweet dishes. Space is limited.

Classes for children 2–6 and 7–12 years old. Time: varies, Monday–Saturday.

Venue: Little Cooks Club, Fourways. Cost: R90 per weekday lesson, R95 per Saturday lesson, R720–R800 per term (eight lessons), registration R150 (includes an apron and recipe folder). Contact Deborah: 082 874 2851, deborahg@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za Taste Bud Cooking Studio It’s a jampacked month where children can learn to create sunshine breakfasts, hearty dinners and sweet tea-time treats with mom and dad in tow. 1 June: Young chefs (7–12 years); 16 June: Father’s Day cooking workshop with

dad; 20 June: Breakfast in bed (3–10 years); and 23 June: Mommy and me cooking workshop. Time: Young chefs 2pm–3:30pm; Father’s day cooking 9:30am–11:30am, Breakfast in bed: 2pm–3pm; Mommy and me: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: 3 Waterford Place, Witkoppen Rd, Paulshof.

Cost: varies. Contact Nicola: 082 331 9987, nicola@tastebudstudio.co.za or visit tastebudstudio.co.za

family outings Dog jumping and agility Bring along a picnic hamper and a few chairs to watch various small and medium dogs compete in agility and performance challenges.

Time: 7am–2pm, every Sunday. Venue: Gold Fields Showgrounds, Bedfordview.

Cost: free. Contact Jason: 082 411 2342 or gautengagility@gmail.com

Taste Bud Cooking Studio

Mona Lisa doing the backstroke A 22mx11m Mona Lisa, which is visible on Google Earth, has been created in the unused swimming pool at the National School of the Arts. Time: 7am–2pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: 17 Hoofd St, Braamfontein. Cost: free. Contact: 011 339 6539, pro@artschool.co.za or visit artschool.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Croc City Hold a baby crocodile as well as a variety of exotic snakes and even a tarantula while on a guided tour around the only crocodile farm in Gauteng. Time: 9am–4pm, daily; feeding times: 2pm, every Saturday and Sunday; snake show: 11am, every Sunday. Venue: Crocodile and Reptile Park, plot 59, R114 just off Cedar Rd, Fourways. Cost: adults R60, children R40. Contact Marietjie: 083 321 1016, info@croccity.co.za or visit croccity.co.za Douglasdale dairy tours Children can learn about Douglasdale milk products and the process the milk goes through from beginning to end. There are baby calves on site. You are welcome to bring a picnic basket. For children 4 years and older. Time: 9am–12pm, Monday–Friday.

Venue: Douglasdale Dairy, Waterloo Rd, Bryanston. Cost: free. Contact Carin: 011 549 0411, carin@douglasdale.co.za, dairytours@douglasdale.co.za or visit douglasdale.co.za

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calendar REEA River market While wandering among the stalls you can enjoy unplugged music, the cycle-through stop, face painting and pony rides. 9 June. Time: 8:30am–2pm. Venue: cnr Marlborough Ave and Richmond Ave, Craighall Park.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 788 4745, gregorh@reea.org.za or visit reea.org.za

on stage and screen

Douglasdale dairy tours

holiday programmes Equal Zeal holiday programme Throughout the week a host of interesting topics are covered, ranging from “Sibling Success” to “Taking the Blues out of Bullying”. Registration closes 15 June. For children 5 years and older. 25–29 June.

Time: 9am–3:30pm. Venue: Midrand.

Cost: R650 per day. Contact Christa: 083 304 0303, christa@equalzeal.com or visit equalzeal.com Holiday fun with Artjamming During the winter holiday, children can unleash their inner Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock and Georgia O’Keefe as they learn the style and history of popular artists. Booking essential. 22 June–13 July. Time: 9am–11am and 2pm–4pm, Monday–Friday. Venue:

Coin World Money makes the world go round.

At this museum you can enjoy a tour of the coins that reflect the numismatic history of the country as well as various artefacts and pieces of equipment that were used to manufacture coins and dies. Bookings essential. Time: 9am–3pm, Tuesday–Friday. Venue: Old Johannesburg Rd. Cost: free.

Contact: 012 677 2324 or visit samint.co.za

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Lonehill Centre, Fourways or Melrose Arch, Shop 27, Melrose Arch Piazza. Cost: R155 per class. Contact Lonehill: 011 465 5778, lonehill@artjamming.co.za; Melrose Arch: 011 994 5050, melrose@artjamming.co.za or visit artjamming.co.za Ranger for a day Children get to learn more about animals while they explore the zoo and help out as a ranger. Booking essential. For children 8–16 years. 26 June–12 July. Time: 7am–4pm, Tuesday– Thursday. Venue: Lory Park, 180/1 Kruger Rd, President Park, Midrand. Cost: R150.

Contact: 011 315 7307, education@ lorypark.co.za or visit lorypark.co.za Tennis clinic Booking essential. 25–29 June. Time: mini tennis: 8am–9:30am for children 3–6 years; half-day clinic: 9:30am–1pm for children 6–16 years.

Venue: Crawford College, Lonehill Boulevard. Cost: mini tennis: R240 for five days, R80 per day; half-day clinic: R900 for five days, R200 per day. Contact Michele: 083 443 3391, michele@itatennis.co.za or visit itatennis.co.za

markets B&B markets: Hillfox You can search the multitude of stalls for quality items, bargain buys and tasty treats. There is dedicated entertainment for the children and free Sunday concerts. Time: 9am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday. Venue: B&B Markets, Hillfox Value Centre, Hendrik Potgieter Dr, Weltevredenpark, Roodepoort. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 442 4488, info@craft. co.za or visit craft.co.za Bryanston organic and natural market This outdoor market offers everything from organic clothing, children’s toys and art to coffees and organic food. Children can take part in candle dipping, sand art and search for gems in the scratch patch on Saturday. Time: 9am–3pm, every Thursday and Saturday. Venue: Culross Rd, off Main Rd, Bryanston. Cost: free entry, children’s activities vary. Contact: 011 706 3671, jules@bryanstonorganicmarket.co.za or visit bryanstonorganicmarket.co.za Farmer’s market, antiques and collectables fair Wander among the various stalls and discover bargains, collectables and fresh produce. 3 June.

Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Stonehaven on Vaal, next to Baddrift Bridge, Sylviavale Ah, Vaal River, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 016 982 2951, info@stonehaven. co.za or visit stonehaven.co.za

Disney on Ice Watch your favourite Disney characters as they perform spectacular skating routines with special effects. All ages. 26 June–1 July. Time: varies. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olivenhout Dr, Northriding. Cost: R180–R300. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Disney’s Aladdin Welcome to Agrabah, City of Enchantment, where every beggar has a story and every camel has a tail.

Children are whisked away on a magic carpet ride filled with fantasy, love and friendship in this theatrical performance of Aladdin. 4 June–21 July. Time: 9am and 10:30am, Monday–Friday; 10:30am and 2:30pm during the holidays. Venue: National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown. Cost: adults R100, children R80. Contact: 011 484 1584, bookings@ nctt.org.za or visit jyt.co.za Le Grand Cirque Adrenaline Bear witness to jaw-dropping feats combined with physical comedy routines as handpicked athletes from around the world contort their bodies, race around the Globe of Death and get strapped onto the Wheel of Destiny. 1–17 June. Time: 8pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 3pm, Saturday; 2pm and 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Joburg Theatre, cnr Simmonds St and Stiemens Rd. Cost: R190–R350. Book through Joburg Theatre: 0861 670 670 or visit joburgtheatre.com Madagascar 3 Follow the escapades of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo and Melman the Giraffe as they continue trying to get home to the Big Apple. This time they’re making their way through Europe with a travelling circus. 13 June. Venue: cinemas nationwide. Cost: varies per cinema Theatre for Refilwe Pop along to the Barnyard Theatre where you can enjoy a night of music and fashion from the past six

1–17 June – Le Grand Cirque Adrenaline

decades and support a worthy cause. The evening is in aid of the Refilwe Community Project, which is raising funds for a 24-hour first-aid station. 3 June. Time: gates open 12pm, show begins at 2pm. Venue: Rivonia Barnyard Theatre, cnr Witkoppen Rd and Rivonia Rd, entrance in Achter Rd, Rivonia Crossing. Cost: R145. Contact Sheilagh: 079 406 1943 or sheilpvt@gmail.com The Gingerbread Man 2 After being baked by a childless old woman, the wily Gingerbread Man outruns several pursuers.

16 June–5 August. Time: 10am and 2pm, Wednesday–Sunday. Venue: People’s Theatre, cnr Loveday St and Hoofd St, Joburg Theatre Complex, Braamfontein.

Cost: tbc. Book through Joburg Theatre: 0861 670 670 or visit peoplestheatre.co.za

playtime and story time Colour Wheel play area Get creative, at the play area in Killarney Mall, where children can enjoy free craft activities in a secure environment. Time: 11am–3pm, Sunday. Venue: Killarney Mall Cinema Court, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney. Cost: free. Contact: 011 646 4657 or visit killarneymall.co.za

Colour Wheel play area at Killarney Mall

Troopers Childcare Centre Whether you’re a Virgin Active member or not, Troopers Childcare Centre offers peace of mind as your children are cared for in a safe, happy environment while you do a spot of shopping. For children 3 months–6 years. Time: 6am–6pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: inside the Virgin Active building, The Square, Melrose Arch.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 011 079 6204 or visit melrosearch.co.za

sport and physical activities Abseiling and caving adventure Dress up in an overall and helmet, grab a torch and abseil through the roof of a wild cave for a 1,5-hour guided tour by torchlight. For children 8 years and older. Time: 11am–2pm, every Sunday.

Venue: meet at EnGedi Lodge, plot 22, cnr Protea Ridge Rd and Honingklip Rd, Kromdraai. Cost: adults R300, children R220. Contact Sandy: 011 956 6197, 082 486 2464, info@wildcaves.co.za or visit wildcaves.co.za Bollywood dance classes This hot new dance craze sees children having fun, increasing their fitness levels and learning a few intricate, and sometimes silly, dance moves. For children 6–12 years. Starts 9 June. Time: 10am, every Saturday.

Venue: Dance Café, first floor, The Square Shopping Centre, cnr Naivasha Rd and Leeuwkop Rd, Sunninghill. Cost: R260 per month. Contact: 011 234 0448, terri@dancecafe.co.za or visit dancecafe.co.za magazine joburg

1 fri

Short Film Festival You can view a selection of local, international and animated films from the renowned short film festival, the 58th annual Internationale Kurzfilmtage Oberhausen. 1–3 June. Time: international programme 8pm, Friday; German programme 6pm, Saturday; and a range of animated and live-action films (for children aged 6 years and older) 3pm, Sunday. Venue: The Bioscope Independent Cinema, 286 Fox St, Maboneng Precinct. Cost: R40.

Contact: 010 007 0119 or visit thebioscope.co.za

Outdoor ice rink It’s time to grab the winter socks and zip around the ice rink in the Centre Court where you can impress your friends with figure eights and pirouettes. 22 June–16 July. Time: 9am–7pm, daily. Venue: Irene Village Mall, cnr Nellmapius Dr and Van Ryneveld Dr, Irene. Cost: R30 for 15 minutes. Contact: 012 662 4446 or visit irenevillagemall.co.za Walk with dogs Take your socialised dog (on a leash) for a walk around Melville Koppies. No booking required. For children 6 years and older. 2 June. Time: 8am. Venue: park in 3rd Ave, off Arundel Rd, Westdene. Cost: R20, dogs are free.

Contact: 011 482 4797, fomk@mk.org.za or visit mk.org.za Wonderwall climbing gym An indoor climbing wall for beginners through to advanced climbers. Time: 9am–6pm, Friday–Sunday. Venue: Unit 1, Kya Sands Industrial Village, 22 Elsecar St, Kya Sands.

Cost: adults R65, children R50. Contact: 011 708 6467 or visit wonderwall.co.za

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Building your emotional resilience Being emotionally aware enables you to manage your own emotions effectively.

Booking essential. 13 June. Time: 9am–11am. Venue: PsychMatters Family Therapy Centre, 9 Park St, Bedfordview.

Cost: R500. Contact: 011 450 3576 or info@psychmatters.co.za Childcare and first aid Have your domestic worker trained on an accredited, results-guaranteed childcare and/or firstaid course. Booking essential. 7 June–5 July.

Time: 8am–2pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North. Cost: R1 950. Contact: 011 447 5517, 083 525 4992 or visit domesticbliss.co.za Children living in the red zone Nikki guides educators and parents to magazine joburg

understand the demands placed on young children today and to encourage their children to reclaim their childhood. For parents of children from birth–12 years. 18 June. Time: 6pm–8pm. Venue: 6 Lombardi Lane, Douglasdale. Cost: R185, includes refreshments. Contact Nikki: 083 265 5754, nikki@brightideasoutfit.co.za or visit brightideasoutfit.com CPR course for domestics Space is limited, so booking essential. 30 June. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Ferndale, Randburg.

Cost: tbc, includes CPR manual. Contact: 011 781 4000, rene@source-it.co.za or visit med-x.co.za Customised craft workshops Select that project you want to work on and complete it at your own speed with guidance and instruction. Time: 5pm–8pm, Tuesday–Thursday; 9am–12pm, Friday and Wednesday; 2pm–5pm, Saturday.

Venue: 17 Outeniqua St, Noordheuwel, Krugersdorp. Cost: first workshop R200 (includes R50 worth of materials); thereafter R100 per workshop, material costs vary. Contact Joan: 083 326 5157, artstamp@isbroadband.co.za or visit heartsandcrafts.co.za Divorce and separation workshop This workshop provides critical emotional, psychological, legal and practical information and support for individuals and families going through a divorce or separation. Booking essential. 2 June.

Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: 5 Wessel Rd, South East Block, first floor, Rivonia. Cost: R950. Contact Cordelia: 011 024 2742, info@sandtonpsychologists.co.za or visit sandtonpsychologists.co.za Edu-Feedback talk Play Attention is a dynamic integrated learning system built on NASA-proven technology, which allows a child to train their brain to gain focus, improve concentration and pay attention.

16 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Psychmatters Family Therapy Centre, 9 Park St, Bedfordview. Cost: free. Contact: 011 450 3576, info@psychmatters.co.za or visit psychmatters.co.za Parenting on the run This talk teaches you how to cheat time and it equips you with practical ideas on how to spend quality time with your children despite your busy schedule. For parents of children 2–10 years old. 4 June. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Miele Gallery of Fine Living, Bryanston. Cost: R350, includes refreshments and notes. Contact Nikki: 083 265 5754, nikki@brightideasoutfit. co.za or visit brightideasoutfit.com Publishing workshop Author, editor and trainer Dave Chislett offers guidance on what it takes to have your book published, what the publishers are looking for and how you can ensure your book sells. Booking essential. 12 June. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: in Parkview tbc. Cost: R600. Contact: admin@allaboutwritingcourses.com or visit allaboutwriting.com Scriptwriting: The scene This course looks at what makes scenes in television dramas effective, and how you can write them. Booking essential. 9 June. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Parkview. Cost: R1 250.

Contact: admin@allaboutwriting.com or visit allaboutwriting.com June 2012

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calendar Sports talks Two informative and controversial talks, presented by the Sports Science Institute of South Africa.

Booking essential. 11 June: “What makes a champion?” and 12 June: “Barefoot running”. Time: 5:45pm. Venue: Discovery Auditorium, 155 West St, Sandton. Cost: R40 per talk. Contact: 021 659 5631, workshop@ssisa.com or visit ssisa.com Supernanny Q&A Moms can ask parenting questions to Supernanny Stephanie DawsonCosser. 30 June. Time: 12pm–3pm. Venue: Green Genes, 39 St Albans St, Craighall.

Cost: R200. Contact Kamani: 071 686 5028, kamani@fabmomslifecoaching.co.za or visit fabmoms.wozaonline.co.za Talking together Learn how to communicate effectively with your 0–5 year old. Childminders and snacks are available for your child. Booking essential. 30 June.

Time: 9am–10am. Venue: This is My World, 52 Oaklands Rd, Orchards. Cost: members R200, non-members R250. Contact Nicole: 011 640 1544, nicole@thisismyworld.co.za or visit thisismyworld.co.za Transformational workshop Looking at our mental and physical wellbeing helps us to re-evaluate our lives and make changes to free ourselves. 9–10 June. Time: 8am–5pm.

Venue: The Bridge, Buccleuch, Sandton.

Cost: R650. Contact Laurinda: 076 135 7601, bridgetranswork@gmail.com or visit bridgetranswork.webs.com The importance of reading The workshop goes through your child’s literary milestones, explains how your child reads and covers a selection of children’s literature. For parents and caregivers of children 0–6 years. 9 June.

Time: 10am. Venue: Parkhurst Recreation Centre, Parkhurst. Cost: R100, includes tea and helpful handouts. Contact Shannon: 074 102 6200 or shannoneggers@vodamail.co.za The power of play This workshop equips you with the information you need to provide age-appropriate stimulation and play for the development of your child’s first four years of life. 30 June. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Parkhurst Recreation Centre, cnr 4th Ave and 13th St, Parkhurst.

Cost: R540, includes manual and lunch.

Contact Shannon: 074 102 6200 or shannoneggers@vodamail.co.za The South African Wine Course This introduction to wines of South Africa is for everyone who wants to learn more about wine and winemaking. 2 and 30 June.

Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: The Michelangelo Hotel, 135 West St, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandown. Cost: R1 095. Contact Fraser: 011 024 3616, fraser@capewineacademy. co.za or visit capewineacademy.co.za Understanding your child better An experiential workshop aimed at developing parents’ insight into their children’s world. Childminders and snacks are provided. Booking essential. 9 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: This is My World, 52 Oaklands Rd, Orchards. Cost: members R300, non-members tbc (medical aid redeemable). Contact Nicole: 011 640 1544, nicole@thisismyworld.co.za or visit thisismyworld.co.za Voicing the mask This five-session, creative and therapeutic workshop leads participants through the meditative and self-reflective process of making a mask,

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40 days of art Zimbabwean artist Makiwa Mutomba took part in a painting marathon where he painted two paintings a day for 40 days, from 1 April to 10 May. Figures, landscapes and still lifes were tackled in oils on canvas. Ends 9 June. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Norscot Manor Recreation Centre, 16B Penguin Dr, Fourways.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 465 2400

which represents a specific part of the self, and the process of finding, evolving and exploring the voice and movement aspects of this part of the self. Booking essential. Starts 2 June. Time: tbc. Venue: Bedfordview. Cost: R1 500. Contact Gina: 084 827 8481, gina@voice360.co.za or visit voice360.co.za Wanda Roos on retirement This registered research psychologist and performance coach tackles financial challenges and other matters on retirement.

2 June. Time: 10am. Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, off Beyers Naudé Dr and R114, Muldersdrift. Cost: R75. Contact: 083 285 8383

2 June – Wanda Roos on retirement at Ngwenya Glass Village

Winter cooking classes Booking essential. 6 June. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: Taste-Buds Cook Club, 3799 Jan Frederik Ave, Randpark Ridge. Cost: R300. Contact: 083 600 9096 or info@taste-buds.co.za

on stage and screen Jeff Dunham the ventriloquist He’s back in SA with a fresh show and new characters. 9, 14, 15 and 16 June. Time: 8pm. Venue: 9 June: Superbowl, Sun City, North West; 14 –16 June: Carnival City, cnr Century Rd and Elsburg Rd, Brakpan. Cost: R250–R500. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Karén Devroop Jazz Quartet One of South Africa’s leading jazz ensembles entertains audiences with a repertoire of tunes. 4 June. Time: 5pm. Venue: UJ Arts Centre Theatre, Kingsway Ave, Auckland Park. Cost: adults R70, students and pensioners R40. Contact: 011 559 4674 or visit uj.ac.za/artscentre Magical violin The talented brother and sister duo of Avigail and Ammiel Bushakewitz from Leipzig treat audience members to an evening of uplifting

violin music. 10 June. Time: 5pm. Venue: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown. Cost: R120–R150. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Roxette The Swedish duo performs all your favourite ‘80s hits. 3 June. Time: 7pm. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, Northriding. Cost: R350–R505. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Second season of the JPO The start of season two of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra sees a collection of well-known and much-loved compositions performed by the orchestra and talented soloists and conductors from around the world. Ends 14 June. Time: 8pm, every Wednesday and Thursday. Venue: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown.

Cost: tbc. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or contact the JPO: 011 789 2733, info@jpo.co.za or visit jpo.co.za Side-splitting comedy An adults-only performance by Kevin Perkins as his on-stage persona Michael Naicker. 11 June.

Time: 8pm. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, cnr Witkoppen Rd and Rivonia Rd, Rivonia Crossing. Cost: R130. Contact: 011 234 2033, jess@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatre.co.za So You Think You Can Love? A comedy on love and dating in your thirties. Esgueira portrays a medley of desperate characters that’ll stop at nothing to find love. Ends 30 June. Time: 8:15pm, Wednesday–

Saturday; 3:15pm, Sunday. Venue: Pieter Toerien Theatre, Montecasino, Fourways. Cost: R150. Contact: 011 511 1818, mark@montetheatre.co.za or visit montecasinotheatre.co.za Ubuntu International Music Festival Artists from the African continent entertain you throughout the night. You can listen to the soulful sounds of Oliver Mtukudzi, Judith Sephuma and Salif Keita. 1 and 2 June. Time: 7pm. Venue: Emperor’s Palace Centre Court, Jones Rd, Kempton Park. Cost: R250–R320. Contact: 011 928 1000, info@emperorspalace.com or visit emperorspalace.co.za

out and about Around the World supper club Each month, talented chefs create a delicious menu for you to enjoy in a relaxed, casual setting, ideal for friends or couples. Booking essential. 28 June. Time: 7:30pm. Venue: The Forum, 1st floor, Wanderers Building, The Campus Office Park, 57 Sloane St, Bryanston.

Cost: R295, including a welcome drink and four-course meal. Contact Tracey: 011 575 4411 or tracey.mukatuni@theforum.co.za Exhibit for autism Liebner Anthony van Zyl and his partner, Celeste von Solms, have created an exhibition of sketches depicting human expression and emotion. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to the Ernie Els Foundation for Autism. 2–8 June. Time: 10am–3pm. Venue: Upstairs @ Bamboo, cnr Rustenburg Rd and 9th St, Melville. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 726 1701 or visit bamboo-online.co.za Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show The country’s top wines are available for your tasting pleasure. The 100 wines to be presented won trophy, gold or silver medals, awarded by a panel of highly regarded local and international judges.

8 June. Time: 6pm–9pm. Venue: Sandton Sun, Maroela Room, cnr Alice Lane and 5th St, Sandton. Cost: R120. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com or trophywineshow.co.za Open day at Dainfern College Here’s your chance to meet the teachers and view the facilities of the co-educational college that caters for Grade 0–Grade 12.

7 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Dainfern College, Broadacres Dr, Dainfern. Cost: free. Contact Caroline: 011 469 0635, cgrobbelaar@dainferncollege.co.za or visit dainferncollege.co.za

7 thu

Cabaret A classy musical set in Berlin’s seedy Kit Kat Klub in 1931, Cabaret was first performed on Broadway in 1966 and converted into a film starring Liza Minnelli in 1972. No children under 13. 7 June–5 August. Time: 8pm, Tuesday–Friday; 4pm and 8pm, Saturday; 2pm and 6pm, Sunday. Venue: Pieter Toerien, Montecasino, cnr William Nicol Dr and Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways. Cost: R100–R325.

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

magazine joburg

magazine joburg

June 2012

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calendar

8 June – Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show

Powerful child A four-hour workshop for parents who want to learn how to bring the best out in their children. 27 June. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Bella Vida Centre, 268 Bryanston Dr, Bryanston.

Cost: R950. Contact: 011 463 4438, enquiries@bellavidacentre.co.za or visit bellavidacentre.co.za Powerful handling of divorce This workshop offers guidance for divorced parents. 22 June. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Bella Vida Centre, 268 Bryanston Dr, Bryanston. Cost: R950. Contact: 011 463 4438, enquiries@bellavidacentre.co.za or visit bellavidacentre.co.za Vaal Wine Show You can tantalise your taste buds with the 200 wines at this weekend’s show. 30 June–2 July. Time: 5pm–9pm. Venue: Emerald Resort and Casino, 777 Frikkie Meyer Rd, Vanderbijlpark.

Cost: R60, includes a tasting glass. Contact: 016 982 8175, info@emeraldcasino.co.za or visit emeraldcasino.co.za

Verdi Opera Gala BTE VO1SS, previously known as The Black Tie Ensemble, pays tribute to one of the greatest composers of the 19th century, Giuseppe Verdi, as they celebrate Youth Day. 15 June. Time: 8pm.

Venue: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown.

Cost: R140–R180. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

15 fri

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops BabyGym This five-week course helps you stimulate your baby to ensure whole brain development. For parents of children 2 weeks–1 year old. Starts 21 June. Time: 9:30am–10:45am, every Thursday. Venue: The Children’s Therapy Centre, Petervale, Bryanston. Cost: R630. Contact Joanne: 083 303 1190, joanne.bradley@babygym. co.za or visit babygym.co.za Dunstan Baby Language This talk on the Dunstan method helps you to

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interpret your baby’s sounds and cries in the first weeks so that you are better able to respond to your baby’s needs. 14 and 21 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Cost: R300 per couple, R150 for individuals. Contact: 011 447 2202 or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Learn to massage your baby A fourweek course for you to learn how to soothe problems such as colic, sleep and bonding issues with massage. For parents of children 2 weeks–1 year old. Starts 4 June.

Time: varies. Venue: The Children’s Therapy Centre, Bryanston. Cost: R480. Contact Joanne: 083 303 1190, joanne.bradley@ babygym.co.za or visit babygym.co.za Womb to world With the arrival of your new bundle of joy, you have many questions regarding positioning, feeding, routines and what to expect developmentally in the first few weeks.

7 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Cost: R300 per couple, R150 for singles. Contact: 011 447 2202 or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Your developing baby This talk is great for first-time moms who would like an overview of how the foetus develops from conception to birth. 2 June. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Cost: R300 per couple, R150 for singles. Contact: 011 447 2202 or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za

playtime and story time Bake, listen and create A fun venue where children can dress up, run, play and create wacky crafts under the supervision and guidance of childminders. Time: 9am–5pm, Tuesday–Sunday; storytelling 3pm, Wednesday; baking 11am, Friday.

Venue: Serendipity, 48 Keyes Ave, Rosebank. Cost: R45 per child, baking R60 (includes the entrance fee). Contact: 011 447 7386, serendipityplay@gmail.com or visit serendipityplay.co.za Dibukids storytelling Expose your children to different languages at Dibuka, where they can listen to stories told in Zulu, English and French. For children 3 years and older. 30 June. Time: 10am. Venue: Dibuka at Alliance Francaise, cnr 17 Lower Park Dr and Kerry Rd, Parkview. Cost: free.

Contact: 011 646 1115, dibukids@alliance. org.za or visit alliance.org.za Parkhurst Library Story time takes place every Monday, for children 6 months and older. Time: 3pm–4pm. Venue: Parkhurst Library, cnr 5th Ave and 13th St, Parkhurst.

Cost: free. Contact: 011 788 4510 Strubens Valley Library Drop in at the library at the library for an engaging storytelling session that will have children wanting to read. For children 2–5 years.

Time: 3pm–4pm, every Thursday. Venue: Strubens Valley Library, Fredenharry Rd, Strubens Valley. Cost: free. Contact: 011 475 0569 Troopers Childcare Centre Whether you’re a Virgin Active member or not, they offer peace of mind as your children are cared for in a safe environment while you shop. For children 3 months–6 years. Time: 9am–4pm, every Sunday. Venue: inside the

Virgin Active building, Melrose Arch, The Square. Cost: tbc. Contact: 011 079 6204 or visit melrosearch.co.za

support groups Adhasa Offers telephonic support, supplies books, supplements and has a reference library for those suffering with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Contact: 011 888 7655, info@adhasa.co.za or visit adhasa.co.za Born Sleeping For parents who have endured a miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death to share their experiences.

Contact Nicole: 084 524 1541/2, bornsleeping@gmail.com or visit bornsleeping.googlepages.com Down Syndrome Association Offers support and guidance for Down’s syndrome assessment, newly-diagnosed babies and schooling decisions. Venue: Children’s Memorial Institute, 13 Joubert St Ext, Braamfontein. Contact: 011 484 6116 (Tuesday and Thursday, 9am–1pm) or the DSSA Home Office: 011 615 4180 Hi Hopes Provides home-based support for families with deaf or hard-of-hearing infants. Contact: 011 717 3750, info@ hihopes.co.za or visit hihopes.co.za Mom Squad A support group for new or expectant moms to share the joys and challenges of motherhood under the guidance of a doctor and mother-oftwo. Time: 10am–12pm, every Monday.

Venue: 4 Pafuri Rd, Emmarentia. Cost: free. Contact Liz or Karin: 083 226 7130 or vandermerwekj@gmail.com PSARU Efficiently assists with locating missing persons. Contact: 0860 287 223 or visit psaru.co.za S.O.L.I.D. (Survivors of Life-Threatening Illnesses and Diseases) This is a volunteer group run by, and for, long-term survivors of childhood cancer. Contact Steven: 082 520 0444 or solidsa@gmail.com

5th St, Lower Houghton. Cost: R3 500 per four-ball. Contact Tracey: 011 298 8567, pr@jhbchildwelfare.org.za or visit jhbchildwelfare.org.za High tea for charity Show your support for those suffering with leukaemia by bringing your friends for high tea and an informative talk on flower healing and a “Spring Cleaning Your Life” talk. This event is in aid of The Sunflower Fund. 9 June. Time: 2pm–5pm. Venue: Tintswalo Lodge, Waterfall Country Equestrian Estate, Kyalami. Cost: R250. Contact Caroline: carolinek@afrihost.co.za Knit-a-square for charity Knit a brightly coloured 20cmx20cm square. After you cast off, leave a one-metre length of yarn so the squares can be joined to create blankets.

They also need warm clothes, stationery and soft toys. Venue: send squares to Soweto Comfort Club, Private Bag X900, Bryanston, 2021. Contact Ronda: 011 462 2922 or visit knit-a-square.com Uhambo Foundation They provide support and services to people with disabilities. To support them, you can sponsor a stimulation kit for children or a wheelchair. Contact Lorraine: 021 762 5094, lorraine@uhambofoundation.org.za or visit uhambofoundation.org.za

National Soup Day Enjoy a bowl of Denny soup this winter. For every can sold (from April to August), Denny will donate 40c to FoodBank SA, a non-profit organisation and the country’s only food-banking network that secures quality food for the hungry. For more info: visit nationalsoupday.co.za or foodbank.org.za

31 may

how to help Become an organ donor For more info and to register, visit odf.org.za Charity golf day In aid of Joburg Child Welfare and OTIS. 12 June. Time: 8am. Venue: Killarney Country Club, 60

Knysna Oyster Festival An exciting festival with fun and activities for the whole family. You can take part in the Argus Rotary Cycle tour, a two-day bridge tournament, a bowls tournament, enjoy sipping South Africa’s top wines, compete to shuck the most oysters or get the children to compete in the cycle challenge or family hike. Weather permitting, SA Navy ships enter through the Knysna Heads on 10 July. 6−15 July. Venue: several in Knysna. Cost: varies. For more info: visit pnpoysterfestival.co.za

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to joburg@childmag.co.za or fax it to 011 234 4971. Information must be received by 24 May for the July 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

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

childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties

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finishing touch

on the move It rates as one of the most stressful things you can do... And moving house while heavily pregnant, is not for the faint-hearted, says ANÉL LEWIS.

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Anél and Erin

ome people bungee jump for kicks, others get their adrenaline boost from rock climbing or diving with sharks. I get mine from moving house when heavily pregnant, usually in summer. Except, unlike the adventure junkies, I don’t tackle the move voluntarily or with any enthusiasm. In fact, I would rather watch The Golden Girls reruns while hanging from a trapeze than move house when pregnant. Unfortunately, our life pattern has conspired against me and I have been forced to attempt this extreme feat not once, but twice. And just for added thrills, I’ve done it in two cities.

The first move was in Johannesburg, and I was about seven months pregnant.

All I can remember of that experience

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was the heat and the downpour at about 4pm as I scrambled to get the last of the boxes into the house before the daily thunderstorm. I could at least still see my toes, so my unpacking and cleaning capabilities were not as hamstrung as with the second move. This time, I was eight months pregnant, and very uncomfortable at the height of the Cape Town summer.

Fortunately my husband did most of the packing and heavy lifting. But on moving day, I was on my feet for several hours. By the end, I was convinced that I was going to give birth on one of the moving company’s trolleys.

The day started off well enough, with my husband and I packing the last of the odds and ends before the movers arrived at 9am. I was tasked with taking our Ridgeback, Vida, and her mixed-breed partner in crime, Chloe, to the vet for a check-up while Craig did the “heavy” work. I thought I had it easy.

But I had forgotten that Vida, who weighs more than 30kg, has delusions of being a contender for the next J&B Met. And Chloe, who has only one eye, semiblindly follows Vida wherever she runs. I managed to get them into the car, but by the time we arrived at the vet, they were ready to break land-speed records. As I opened the door, they bolted, leaving me standing with two pink leashes in my hand. I attempted to waddle in their direction. But when I noticed the children at the next door primary school pointing in my direction, I realised how absurd I must have looked – like a giant beach ball, marooned in the parking lot while two gregarious dogs ran donuts around me. I decided to give in gracefully. I would explain to Craig that the dogs had run off to greener pastures, and that we would save a good few rand each month in dog food. But fortunately, a kind gentleman stepped in to help, and after about 20

minutes of cajoling and some tears, from me, we got the errant hounds into the vet.

The rest of the day was spent directing the movers around the new house and keeping an eye on Erin, who was intent on climbing into the boxes as we unpacked them. When the final box was dropped off, at about 7pm that evening, I felt as if I had completed a Cape Epic and a Dusi Canoe Marathon back-to-back.

And I vowed again that I would never move when pregnant. In fact, the next time I pack a box, bubble-wrap an ornament or lift a couch, the children had better be old enough to help out.

Anél Lewis has now settled into her new home. Conor Sean Lewis was born on 10 April at a healthy 3,6kg. Anél has embraced being the mom of two little ones, but admits she misses the office vibe.

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