Child magazine | Joburg May 2011

J O H A N N E S B U R G ’ S bes t gu i d e f or p aren t s

out of the box great gifts that can’t be wrapped

fun & games

www.childmag.co.za

May 2011

hooray birthday traditions for the family

activities for any party space

free

hip, hip

let’s party

health

your must-have guide to planning your child’s special day

education

entertainment

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

As I sat at my desk last week, I realised that it was the first time this year that I wasn’t travelling to any one of six cities on business.

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 Gillian Hurst • joburg@childmag.co.za Editorial Assistant Lucille Kemp • lucille@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway

Art Designers Mariette Barkhuizen • mariette@childmag.co.za Nikki-leigh Piper • nikki@childmag.co.za

With most of my days spent at work, my daughters don’t get as much “alone time” with me as I would like. So, when Julian turned 16 in February, I decided the best present I could give her, was my time. At the end of this month, she will cash in a birthday voucher for “a week of undiluted mother and daughter fun”. We are travelling to the city of her choice, visiting art galleries, museums and markets. We’ll go to shows, shoe stores and possibly a whole lot of other shops too. But my gift isn’t where we go or what we do, it’s my undivided attention, listening to her and hearing her. It is laughing and getting lost – a lot! We both have an appalling sense of direction and won’t have my youngest, or my husband, to help us out.

I can’t wait! Happy birthday, sweet pea.

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

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani

Client Relations Renee Bruning • renee@childmag.co.za Natasia Cook • natasia@childmag.co.za

PS Don’t miss our fantastic party resource.

Fortunately, we still have a few more years of parties to plan for Robyn.

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

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

Joburg’s Child magazineTM is published monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 5,

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

First Floor, Bentley Office Park, cnr Rivonia and Wessel Rd, Rivonia. Tel: 011 807 6449, fax: 011 234 4971, email: joburg@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

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May 2011

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contents

may 2011

upfront 3

a note from lisa

6 over to you readers respond

features

22

12 intrepid adventurer on board

Elaine Eksteen shares her toddler’s first camping experience with us

health

16 it’s your day

20 birthday traditions that will make for fond memories. By Elaine Eksteen

18 when the door shuts

a teenager’s need for privacy should be respected and monitored, says Glynis Horning

22 party fun for any space Child magazine gives you ideas for party games – from the beach to the lounge and the swimming pool

10 smoke alarm

Tamlyn Vincent points out the dangers of passive smoking

11 itchy itch

chickenpox is a common childhood disease. Chareen Boake gives advice

regulars 8

wins

26 crossing the line

13 upfront with paul

Paul Kerton gets serious about his seven-year-old’s university education

should you discipline other people’s children? By Joanne Lillie

30 you name it, baby!

Christina Castle looks at the lighter

side of naming your baby 32 no wrapping paper needed

Marina Zietsman’s feel-good and

alternative ideas for birthday gifts

14 dealing with difference

Lucille Kemp sheds some light on children with Down’s syndrome and mainstream schooling 42 resource – the ultimate party guide

34 dinner for one two

it’s tough for single parents to start

dating again, says Donna Cobban 38 cake time!

Jenny Dodd brings you four mouth-

watering, themed cake recipe ideas

38

Compiled by Colleen Goosen and Marina Zietsman 60 a good read

new books for the whole family

66 what’s on in may 82 last laugh

Sam Wilson is baffled by her son’s excellent manners

classified ads 80 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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May 2011

Johannesburg

Cape Town

Durban

shutterstock.com

Accessorize www.accessorize.co.za

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magazine joburg

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May 2011

5

letters

over to you sugar monster

tomatoes, pesto and water he went back to his old

Your child is “special”, “an old soul”, so “at peace”,

self. So, this got me thinking: if your child is wild and

so “in tune”... I used to think this was largely due to

unhappy – adjust the diet. I could be wrong, it may

his character. I found out last weekend that this is not

not have been the food, but it was the first time he

necessarily so. Someone, with good intentions, gave

had had so much sugar in one sitting and it was the

him a large bowl of sugared cereal with chocolate

first time I had ever witnessed such behaviour in my

milk and gave him undiluted juice. For the next three

three-year-old.

hours I literally had no idea what I was dealing with.

I felt so sorry for my child. He was beside himself

He had an initial high where he ran and ran, then

and I thought of all those children struggling and

he got mad, then he got irrational, then he started

being told off all the time when maybe just losing the

screaming at me because he wanted a train to come

sugary cereal and bringing in the wheat cereal might

along the track… “now!” Then he started screaming

change their worlds.

because he wanted to go home “now”! Then, when

Laura, Constantia

monkey blood Mercurochrome is still commonly used in schools, but the USA’s FDA (Food and Drug Administration) banned it in 1998. Are we in South Africa just slow off the mark? Or are schools choosing the cheaper antiseptic? I’d love to read an article in Child magazine about the pros and cons of “monkey blood”. Maybe we should stop using it, seeing that it contributes to mercury poisoning.

Anonymous professional response Mercurochrome is a product that was once

we got to the car, he refused for 15 minutes to get

widely marketed for use as a topical antiseptic

into his car chair. I picked him up (20kgs-plus) and

for use on minor cuts and scrapes. There are

put him there – the fight was not easy. He hollered

two issues with Mercurochrome. The first is that

and thrashed about in his chair for three minutes

it contains mercury, a metal that is known to

then fell fast asleep (he never normally sleeps at that

be poisonous. Although no one has definitively

time). We met a friend for a picnic, and when he woke

linked Mercurochrome to mercury poisoning,

up, he was still in a foul mood, refused to walk, and

presumably because the metal is only present

just did not want to be there. After some cheese,

in trace amounts, many people prefer to err on the side of caution when it comes to mercury.

The FDA originally grandfathered the drug in,

I’m responding to Lisa Mc Namara’s pub’s note in the April issue of Child magazine. Saying “no” is so important. We don’t always have to agree, say “yes” or please everyone.

It is empowering to say “no” or, when caught off guard, “can I get back to you” or “let me think about it”. So many people feel they can’t say “no”. They feel obliged to say “yes”. We also don’t always have to explain ourselves.

Sometimes our “no” should be enough. When we do say “no”, it is empowering and it will be easier the next time.

Our lives should reflect our priorities and when it does, our thinking and choices, are aligned with that. We live the life we want, not the one we wish we had.

Andrea Cizlak, avid reader of Child magazine, mom, psychology student and wife

excellent feedback We run a craft programme, which is aimed at empowering abused and disadvantaged women in the community.

On behalf of our community, thanks for featuring us in your magazine; we’ve had lovely feedback. Peggy kindly collected old jewellery from the ladies in her church group. Paarl Media has donated paper and carpet tiles to the Zamakuhle Crèche in Chesterville. Forty litres of

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paint were also donated to a mom with two children whose house was accidentally set on fire. Tina also donated some old jewellery and other children’s goods.

We also received donations from Greenglades, an outlet for gifts and crafts as well as Burgess Florist, Carla’s Party Shop and Linen Square. Thank you so very much.

You have blessed people with your magazine.

Tracy Gombert, Ukuthula Craft Programme

meaning that it was exempt from new standards or regulations. It was later decided that it should be banned until additional research could prove that it was safe for use.

The second issue with Mercurochrome is the colour. The dark reddish to brown stain covers up the natural colour of the skin around the wound, making it hard to detect the early signs of infection.

thanks for caring

So what is the present advice? Medical

I am a very fond reader of your magazine and ever since reading this magazine, I have bonded so much more with my daughters. There is always something in it for us three to do together. If you don’t touch my heart, then you touch my house in some way. I have learned togetherness from Child magazine and my little one started to grow her own little herb garden. We laugh more together and I am making more time for my children now. Thanks for caring for the busy moms and their sweet angels.

Tasneem Hendricks-Toefy

Mercurochrome solutions are cheap and widely

a big “thank you”

write to us

Thanks so much for helping us make our Red-a-Fair such an amazing, successful event. The weather played along and the crowds came in their droves. Most importantly the children had an absolute ball. Thanks so much once again for all your support and inclusion in your March issue. We really do appreciate it. Well done on a superb monthly helper.

Lynn Giles, Red-a-Fair Committee

available over the African continent. Clinical use of Mercurochrome remains a safe and cheap way of dealing with superficial cuts and scrapes in children.

Prof AB (Sebastian) van As, head of the Trauma Unit Red Cross Children’s Hospital and president of Childsafe South Africa

You can also post a comment online at

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

childmag.co.za

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

We

reserve

the

right to edit and shorten submitted letters.

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

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House Publishing.

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

“no” is good enough

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May 2011

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wins

giveaways in may party time

your child’s dream house

Kids Party Stuff provides an array of party services – from entertainment and jumping castles to food and carousels, as well as themed parties such as fairies, drumming, fashion show, fear challenge, pirates and treasure hunt. They’ve also got activities covered, offering shape decorating, pass the parcel, necklace making and plate painting.

Kids Party Stuff will even do the cake, and sort the party packs and invitations. Contact Carol: 083 409 8003 or info@kidspartystuff.co.za One reader of Joburg’s Child stands a chance to win a themed party for up to 20 children to the value of R2 500, including the entertainer, a treasure hunt and a piñata for children five years and older.

They will substitute the piñata with something else for younger children. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Kids Party Stuff Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Kids Party Stuff Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

Having a space to call their own is a child’s dream and Strawberry Kids is in the business of realising these dreams, designing and manufacturing exclusive outdoor playhouses for girls and boys of all ages. The houses are purpose built so you can choose from seven different styles and sizes. They are made from quality exterior materials and can be painted in any colour. If you’d like one for older children or yourself as a possible outdoor office or studio, an extended height option is available on most styles. The playhouse components can be assembled by you, or by one of Strawberry Kids’ preferred installers in your area. A Strawberry Kids creation will give your child years of outdoor and creative fun and play. For more information contact: info@strawberrykids.co.za or visit strawberrykids.co.za Strawberry Kids is offering you a chance to win a Strawberry Kids Playhouse (Princess for girls or Fortress for boys) worth more than R4 000. To enter the competition, log on to strawberrykids.co.za, select Child Mag Competition and enter your details before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

sweet fantasy Let Fairytale Fantacies amuse the children at their next party, leaving you to sit back and relax.

Fairytale Fantacies entertains with your choice of party characters including Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Belle, Tinkerbelle, Barbie, pirates and Power Rangers. Their characters will entertain your children with games, crafts, glitter make up and basic face painting.

Enquire about their pamper parties. For more information contact Tracey 083 631 6655 or Karen 083 294 4783, info@ fairytalefantacy.co.za or visit fairytalefantacy.co.za One reader of Joburg’s Child stands a chance to win a two-hour party entertainment package, valued at R2 000, with either a Princess or Pirate option, which includes a special gift for the birthday girl or boy. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Fairytale JHB Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Fairytale JHB Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

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May 2011

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hang on a branch beach in your back yard Crazy Concepts imports and distributes playground equipment and toys. A favourite for children one year and older is the Step2 Shady Oasis Sand and Water Play Table, which features dual wells for both sand and water play. Your child pours water into the wide funnel activating the water wheel, canals, moats, lakes and harbours. The play table also comes with a removable umbrella, and a seven piece accessory set. Visit the Crazy Concepts store in Montana Park, Pretoria (012 548 0982) or contact their head office in Somerset West for stockist information: 082 826 1786, info@crazyconcepts.co.za or visit crazyconcepts.co.za Three readers of Joburg’s Child stand a chance to win a Step2 Shady Oasis Sand and Water Play Table valued at R1 000 each. To enter, email your details to win@childmag.co.za with “Crazy Concepts JHB Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Crazy Concepts JHB Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

By entering this competition you consent to Hunter House Publishing handing over your contact details to the company providing the win and/or their agents and you may receive marketing communication from them, as a result.

top toys Polly Potter’s Toy Store opened in Parkhurst under the ownership of Gia Bert three years ago, and today there are seven Polly Potter’s Toy Stores around Gauteng. Polly Potter’s Toy stores provide a quality range of toys and gifts for babies, toddlers and young children. They source their toys from around the world and also stock a range of locally made products, offering a unique selection of traditional wooden toys at inexpensive prices. Polly Potter’s is well known for their dollhouses, rocket ships, red wagons, hand puppets and theatres, puzzles, books, TP’s and all kinds of imaginary play. They are the sole sockists of Kidkraft and Melissa and Doug Victorian Dollhouses and accessories. For more information and branch details visit pollypotterstoystore.co.za.

One reader of Joburg’s Child stands a chance to win a Kidkraft Savannah Dollhouse or Kidkraft Rocket Ship valued at R2 000. To enter, email your details to pollypotter@telkomsa.net with “Polly Potter JHB Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Polly Potter JHB Win, P.O Box 117, Dullstroom, 1110 before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

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Acrobranch is an outdoor activity that combines sport and adventure to work on your balance, strength and focus. You are harnessed in and connected to a zip line as you go from tree to tree through various obstacle courses. Children’s birthday parties get full access to all Acrobranch’s junior courses, and depending on the age, height and fitness levels of the children, some of the more senior courses as well. You also have access to all the facilities such as the lapa and Acrobranch will supply one guide for every 10 children to ensure their safety at all times. Acrobranch is open on Fridays 1pm–5pm and weekends 9am–5pm. They are situated in the James and Ethel Grey Park, Melrose Street, Birdhaven. For more information contact 078 438 7463 or visit acrobranch.co.za One reader of Joburg’s Child stands a chance to win a birthday party for 23 children valued at R2 000. To enter, email your details to win@childmag. co.za with “Acrobranch Win” in the subject line or post your entry to Acrobranch Win, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010 before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

congratulations to our March winners Nishala Naidoo who wins a gift voucher from Cape Union Mart; Anamika Somera who wins a nu•m8+ GPS locator by Lok8U; Nicky Lieb, Adrienne Kendrick, Julia De Bruyn, Sue van der Merwe, Heidi Blain, Angela Rogers, Consuela Wannenberg, Monique Beekman, Vasanti Parshotam, Yunus Dhaler, Tanya Ribeiro, Adam Brand, Eli Markantonatos and Angela Knight who each wins in the Mosaic Kids giveaway.

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health

smoke alarm TAMLYN VINCENT looks at some of the dangers of passive smoking.

risky business Children are more sensitive to ETS than adults, and are often more exposed to it than adults. Johannesburgbased pulmonologist Dr Clifford Smith says: “Children are growing, so their lungs are growing,” creating a greater risk of developing complications. Children also have

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May 2011

smaller airways, so ETS affects them faster, leading to respiratory infections from bronchitis to pneumonia, and these infections can be more serious than in children not exposed to ETS. Passive smoke can also exacerbate the symptoms of asthma and increase the risk of an attack.

On top of this, it can also cause more frequent middleear infections and an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart disease.

There are added potential dangers for unborn babies, says Smith. Damaging chemicals can cross the placenta and blood flow can be reduced, decreasing the amount of nutrients and levels of oxygen received by the baby. This can cause “growth retardation” says Smith, malformation and an increased chance of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

Another problem is that children who are sick more often miss more school. Plus, nicotine is a neurotoxin, which can affect a child’s ability to concentrate and learn, and may lead to disruptive behaviour and poor performance. Dr Vanessa Govender, Group Health and Wellness manager of the AVENG group, who has conducted extensive research on the effects of tobacco, says children who are exposed to passive smoke often have nicotine in their systems. And

if these children start smoking later on in life, they will have greater nicotine dependence. Also, parents who model this behaviour increase the chance that their children will grow up to be smokers themselves.

guidelines Here’s how we can protect our children: • Quit smoking, or encourage family or friends to give up.

• Avoid smoking in cars or enclosed spaces with children present; and move your children away from those who are smoking.

• Make your house and car smoke-free zones. Govender says that smoking outside is better, but that children will still be exposed to the nicotine.

• People still smoke in public places, like restaurants, at concerts and school events, even though smoking in public is not allowed. Govender says that smokers need to be more conscious of the rights of non-smokers and that “attitudes need to change”. This would help lessen the pressure from society to smoke.

• Parents who smoke, says Govender, “send the message that it is okay to do so” but parents should think about what sort of role model they are.

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

i

don’t like it when friends or family smoke around my son (how many of us do?). When I was growing up, smoking wasn’t such a big deal, though perhaps it should have been. The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing estimates that children of parents who smoke will inhale the same amount of nicotine as if they were smoking between 60 and 150 cigarettes a year.

Passive smoking refers to when we inhale environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), made up of sidestream and mainstream smoke. Sidestream smoke is unfiltered smoke that burns off the tip of a cigarette; particles of this can be found on clothes, furniture and in dust. This smoke contains more tar and carcinogens than mainstream smoke and makes up about 85 percent of the smoke in a room. Mainstream smoke is the filtered smoke breathed out by the smoker.

health

itchy itch CHAREEN BOAKE looks into the common

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterstock.com

c

childhood disease, chickenpox.

hickenpox is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and gets its name from the way the spots resemble the bumps on a chicken’s comb. Highly contagious, it is common among children aged five to nine, though its symptoms are usually more severe in adults and infants. Passed through airborne particles, droplets in exhaled air or fluid from sores and blisters, chickenpox can also be transferred indirectly through contact with items such as clothing or crockery.

It’s contagious up to five days before and after the rash appears, but once the scabs have formed, the person is usually no longer contagious.

Symptoms of chickenpox tend to appear 14 to 16 days after exposure to the virus (but can occur anytime from 10 to 21 days afterwards). Symptoms include a mild fever for one to two days, cold-like symptoms, irritability, general lethargy and a rash. The rash begins as red round or oval spots that develop blister-like centres; these blisters eventually develop into scabs. Although the rash is extremely itchy, scratching only worsens the symptoms and can cause bacterial skin infections. The rash normally starts on the scalp and makes its way to the trunk and finally the arms and legs.

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when to watch out Although chickenpox is not usually a serious concern, paediatrician Dr Marlé du Toit from Netcare Kuils River Hospital in Cape Town says that in rare circumstances and cases of compromised immunity it can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.

Skin infections are also possible. During pregnancy, chickenpox is very risky, especially during early pregnancy or near delivery, where it can result in eye problems, underdeveloped limbs or brain damage in the foetus.

Pregnant women should contact their health practitioner immediately if they suspect that they might have chickenpox or if they know they have come into contact with an infected person.

You can only treat the symptoms of chickenpox. Try soothing baths, use calamine lotion or cornstarch to soothe the itching, keep nails clean and short to avoid infections from scratching and use medication prescribed by your doctor to control the temperature. Aspirin should never be given to children with chickenpox. If a child is having problems eating or drinking because of chickenpox in their mouth, make sure to give them soft foods and avoid acidic drinks such as orange juice. If the child has a

very high fever, vomits more than three times, has difficulty walking or waking up, and shows signs of confusion you should again consult your doctor.

The chickenpox (varicella) vaccine is highly recommended by many healthcare professionals. The initial vaccination is administered when the child turns one.

Sister Petra Pretorius from the Olivedale Mother & Baby Clinic in Johannesburg says that between ages one and 12 only one dose of the vaccine is administered, but older children and adults need two doses, between four and eight weeks apart. After vaccination some children may develop mild symptoms for one or two days.

If you’ve had chickenpox, can you get it again? After a chickenpox infection the varicella virus remains dormant in the body so, although it’s very rare, children and adults can get chickenpox again especially if the first case was very mild. The virus can reappear in older people or people with weakened immune systems in a region fed by a specific nerve: this is called shingles and can be very painful.

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straight up

a

couple of Fridays ago we headed off on a longanticipated family adventure: our toddler’s very first camping trip. We were hoping it would lead to many more weekends with our son enjoying what had been one of our favourite activities pre-baby. The spot we’d chosen was the other side of a rather bumpy gravel pass – the last bit of the journey elicited much laughter as we all bobbed about on the “wobbly” road with exaggerated “hold tights”.

We selected a shady site on a blissfully empty field – just us, nature and the wide-open sky – and unpacked our gear. Pitching a tent, it turns out, is a lot trickier with a toddler in tow. Luckily ours took a liking to the mallet and with that and a few tent pegs, he was kept suitably entertained as we pitched our canvas home.

That sorted, we headed off in search of a mountain pool to cool off in. Our swim was punctuated with our son’s shrieks of delight. Then we spotted a frog being lifted out of

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finds things a little different from how she remembers them. the water. This is why we’d come: wildlife to which to expose our city boy. But what was that holding the frog in its mouth? Could it be an otter? Err no, a snake. Mom suddenly felt a whole lot less adventurous and hopped out.

Getting him to bed that night required stamina. We must have overplayed the “we’re all going to sleep together in the tent” line in the prep talks. He wanted Mom and Dad there to keep him company in his strange new room. After what felt like hours (and it was at least one) and a lot of jumping up and down to peep at Daddy manning the fire, he eventually drifted off.

With our son asleep, we sat outside next to the campfire, hoping to soak in the sounds and smells of nature we’d so missed… but these felt increasingly distant as the night continued. What had been a tranquil nature-lovers’ campsite just a couple of years back had turned into camp central. Cars continued to stream in well after dark. Our nearest neighbours’ gas lamp was bright enough to light our way back over the mountain (and we were tempted!) and not too far from us a party-loving youngster was running a pop-up bar from the back of his bakkie (complete with liquor dispensers, a fold-out bar counter and cocktail shaker). This was certainly not what we’d had in mind!

When yet another car pulled in at 11:30pm and set up camp so close we could hear them chewing on their braaied mielies, we resolved to head home in the morning.

Had we wanted to hear others discussing what they’d seen on YouTube or be woken by the sounds of alcohol-

fuelled debates, we needn’t have driven two hours to find it. We’d hoped our boy would get a taste of the nature and outdoors we so love – but this was not it.

However, when at the crack of dawn our son woke up jabbering about the tent and wanting to go for another swim, his sparkly eyes filled with excitement, his parents shrugged off their irritation and together we headed off in search of a remote rock pool. Few others were up and we had the swimming spot all to ourselves. We looked at frogs, examined dragonflies and inspected fish. Our nearest neighbours seemed a million miles away – bliss!

By the time we returned for our son’s nap the rest of the campers had just headed off for swims of their own, and we settled down for a snooze on a blanket under a tree.

Now this is why we’d come.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

d i p e r t n i r e r u t adven rd on boa

ELAINE EKSTEEN introduces her toddler to camping and

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upfront with paul

PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

a

tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor…

PAUL KERTON gets serious about his seven-year-old’s future vocation.

s I write this, it is my youngest daughter’s seventh birthday. You may think it too early to be thinking about your children’s careers. I certainly do, or did; until I sat next to a career advisor on a plane recently. My tack has always been, get a decent all-round education, get “school” qualified and then look around. Be flexible and adapt. There’s plenty of time for that.

Wrong! “That” is no longer good enough.

For starters, education, and particularly further education, is no longer an assumed entitlement and is indeed fast becoming an ultra-expensive luxury, shortly to be rationed to fewer students. South Africans have always paid for varsity but Western universities are now putting a premium on further learning.

Even Britain, where the universities used to be free to everyone as long as you turned up with a modest smattering of qualifications, is now using the credit crunch as an excuse to tighten the budgetary noose to the point where students now leave university with a degree plus an average personal debt of R350 000. And a burden of debt is

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not a great start to working life. Foreign students pay almost three times the fees of local students here, but it is still cheap compared to Europe. Expect an immediate influx of foreign students. Good for the bottom line, bad for prospects.

Competition for places – which are being radically reduced – is now ferocious.

Marks matter. Grades matter. Mindset matters. And all this, unfortunately, starts now. No longer can youth mess around experimenting with various courses until they hit on the right one. “Oh, Daddy, philosophy is so dreary, please, please let me try chemical engineering.” Mistakes are expensive. Time is expensive. The hallowed gap year will disappear. Smart people know that a year spent drifting around South America teaching English to Peruvians is better spent getting a head start in your chosen vocation – networking and interning.

Career advice, though, is traditionally limited and vague. When I was at school it was nonexistent. Tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor…

Eeenie-meenie-minee-mo… You either worked hard to become a professional, dropped out and became a tradesman,

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

moved into Dad’s business or joined the army or navy.

The jobs landscape is changing daily.

Any kind of technology – computer, energy, bio or nano is a massive hit. Sectors such as finance (check out a banker’s bonus and weep), medicine, law and design will remain stable but many everyday jobs will disappear.

Languages are going to be so important but choice is crucial. It takes the same

time, energy and commitment to learn one language as it does to learn another. Bottom line – learn what everyone else is speaking.

The good news is, business and trade are now global. If you can’t get a job here, you can always get a job there. The big joke in Europe now is if you are going to India and want to know what the weather is like, call your local bank’s helpline.

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

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dealing with difference

count me in LUCILLE KEMP finds out that a child with Down’s syndrome can be a mainstream learner.

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ax and his family go to the beach and to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden; they watch rugby and go camping; attend modern dancing recitals and live music concerts, as well as have weekend braais and throw birthday parties. They also attend Down’s syndrome meetings, go to the Congenital Heart Defect Awareness picnics and visit Max’s cardiologist biannually – because Max has Down’s syndrome (DS), a journey that the three-year-old’s dad Saul Helman describes as no worse than any other family’s hardships, simply different.

Vanessa dos Santos, National Executive Director of Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA), says that a child with Down’s syndrome is not a “Down’s Child”. Also, “they are not angel children,” says Marc Köbler, dad to two-and-a-half-year-old Leonie who has DS. “Typically, developing children and children with DS are more alike than different. So, children with DS also don’t all like music; they are not happy all the time, but they are also not suffering.”

are approximately 200 physical features of DS but any one person has only six to seven of these. And Heidi Webber, mom to seven year old Hayley who has DS, says, “There is no correlation between physical characteristics and mental ability. All people with DS will have some degree of intellectual impairment but only occasionally is it severe.”

times have changed If you lived in the UK in the 1970s a child with Down’s syndrome was branded “ineducable”. Rewind further to the 1920s and the life expectancy of a child with DS was a mere nine years.

Today, thanks to social and educational opportunities, and medical advances, a child with DS has an improved quality of life and an increased life expectancy of 65 years. Because of early intervention through physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy, children with DS are able to reach the same milestones as typically developing children.

They are children first and foremost; like any others, with likes and dislikes, talents, strengths and weaknesses. Second to that they have Down’s syndrome, a genetic condition caused by the presence of one extra chromosome, which brings with it a particular set of physical characteristics and cognitive delays, to which anyone can be susceptible. Dos Santos says, “Down’s syndrome affects one in every 800 live births in South Africa and though the condition becomes increasingly common for mothers older than 35, more than 80 percent of children with Down’s syndrome are currently being born to mothers under the age of 35.”

At first glance you may identify DS by its physical features, which include almond-shaped eyes that slant upwards, a small nose with a broad, flat bridge as well as tiny folds of skin covering the inner corners of the eyes. You may sometimes also notice a protruding tongue, owing to low muscle tone. Marc says that there

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There are many stories of individuals with DS who have excelled as ballroom dancers and motivational speakers or who have become dedicated, dependable employees and successful entrepreneurs.

This is simply because, as studies have revealed, children and adults with DS can and do continue to learn throughout their lives just like the rest of the population – they just need the support of people around them who know what they need to progress and succeed in life. Parents and experts alike agree that key to success is educating a child with DS in a regular school.

In 2008 the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was passed as international law, and states that “persons with disabilities have the right to non-discriminatory, inclusive education at all levels”. This marked a major shift as prior to the inclusive-education movement, individuals with DS either stayed at home or were placed in training centres, which magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPH: Marc Köbler

Children and adults with DS can and do continue to learn throughout their lives just like the rest of the population.

offered day care and relief for parents instead of education for their children.

Most experts believe that an inclusive learning environment genuinely works.

If children with DS can simply be viewed as having a different learning style, and educators entering into the teaching environment can truly understand that each child in a class has their own way of assimilating information, then the child with DS will cope well in a mainstream school. “Some children ‘get it’ the first time, while others require a second explanation or a more practical technique before they grasp a concept. Herein lies the beauty of having a child with DS in the class – the whole class will benefit from a teacher who repeats something, simplifies the instruction, and speaks slightly slower when explaining a new idea,” says Heidi.

Such a success story is of a young woman with DS from the Free State who not only completed her high school education in an inclusive education setting but also attended a tertiary college and today teaches children with learning differences.

An inclusive environment prepares a child with a different ability to become a full and contributing member of their community, and so society as a whole benefits. It also teaches typically developing children about tolerance for difference in the most concrete way.

health wise Though children with DS are not sickly there are sometimes setbacks. Saul’s little Max had to undergo two major heart surgeries at a young age and Saul says there will be at least one more surgery in the years to come. Heidi’s Hayley has been hospitalised three times with pneumonia – children with DS typically have narrowed upper respiratory tracts and slightly weaker immune systems and so are prone to respiratory infections.

Saul says physiotherapy has played a large role in Max’s development and that occupational therapy is on the cards in future. Heidi took Hayley to a neurodevelopmental physiotherapist from when she was seven days old; she started her on occupational therapy at two years and speech therapy at age three.

Marc takes a holistic view on development, saying you can teach your child without formal training. He says that eating certain foods can stimulate articulation and activities such as cutting with a pair of scissors can strengthen muscle tone. Marc gives suggestions, “While waiting for your food at a restaurant, build a house out of sugar sachets to strengthen muscle tone, and to teach numbers and counting, count out loud the cars on the road.” To build on Leonie’s communication skills and vocabulary, Marc and the family also sign with Leonie, saying the words as they sign them. Marc, through his own experience, believes that each child can make meaningful progress in their first six years if parents spend 20 to 30 minutes every day stimulating their development in simple ways.

ode to the parents It seems that the experience of having a child with DS has added more to each of Marc, Heidi and Saul’s lives than they could have predicted. Marc has spearheaded an inclusive education programme, called Early Impact, at his daughter’s preschool, the first of its kind in the Western Cape, while Heidi was spurred on to complete her masters degree in special needs education. And in spite of the fact that Saul has had to hand over his young son for risky surgery twice, he maintains level-headed perspective: “We can never tell any parent that their fears are trivial and that their situation is easier than ours.” As with any family, there are bad days and there are good days.

helpful contacts The South African Association for Learning and Education Differences 011 648 5779 or visit saaled.org.za Down Syndrome South Africa 0861 369 672, dssaoffice@icon. co.za or visit downsyndrome.org.za Down Syndrome Inclusion Education Foundation (DSIE) 021 712 5552, 021 797 0502, info@down-syndrome.co.za or visit down-syndrome.co.za Down Syndrome Education International dseinternational.org

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To read more about other learning differences go to childmag.co.za/ content/learning-differences

May 2011

15

ideas

it’s your day Twenty ways to ensure your child feels super special on their birthday. By ELAINE EKSTEEN

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will object to this as a birthday tradition. In fact, there’ll probably be requests to repeat this on your birthday.

Tell your child’s birth story: what it was like to hold them in your arms for the first time; what time of day they were born; who came to visit them in the hospital; what they liked to do as a baby. You might even look through old photos and watch your family videos to remind them (and you) of those early days. Children love to hear their story.

Write your child a birthday poem or compose a song. You don’t have to be super creative to give this one a whirl. Collect the words or lyrics in a special book or capture your performance on video so you can re-live the fun later. You may not win a literary or Grammy award for your efforts, but you’ll certainly win your young child’s heart.

Light birthday candles at each meal. Very few children will pull up their noses at having “Happy Birthday” sung to them at breakfast, lunch and supper – and getting to blow out their candles each time. In fact,

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if your toddler is anything like mine, he’ll be requesting a number of re-lightings at each sitting.

Eat a special meal of the birthday girl’s choice: allow her to select the menu a few days before her birthday so you have time to buy the ingredients. And if she wants waffles for breakfast, cupcakes for lunch and pancakes for dinner? Try filling the first pancake with bolognaise (and insisting they eat that up before you serve the banana and ice cream one). You can always balance things out by giving healthy snacks in between the “meals” – birthdays are, after all, just one day a year. Or you could limit them to choosing a favourite dish they’d like to eat on the day – who knows, they might surprise you, perhaps it’ll be Dad’s macaroni and cheese.

Fill their room with balloons. When your child is fast asleep, enlist some help (so you don’t get lightheaded) and blow up a bag of balloons, then sneak them into his room for a birthday-morning surprise. Pin streamers to the doorframe so he needs to walk through the wall of colour to start the day.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Here are some ideas you may want to turn into family traditions…

Start the day by gathering the rest of the family and serenading the birthday girl in bed to the tune of “Happy Birthday”. You may have to set an alarm clock to beat the excited birthday girl’s wake up… but the smile on her face should be worth it.

Make a birthday trail in candied popcorn (or ribbon or streamers) from the child’s bed to the hiding place of the treasure: their present. You could wrap a few extra tiny gifts and include these in a route around your home.

For older children, interrupt the popcorn path with notes that give clues… then resume the popcorn at the position of the answer to the clue.

Stick up Post-it notes round the house saying why you love your child: one on their toothbrush, in their lunchbox, on the front door, in their sock drawer… Siblings can also be invited to contribute.

Serve or go out for a backwards dinner: eat dessert, then main course, then a starter – few children

Hold a dinner of appreciation: go round the table giving each family member a turn to say one thing they love or appreciate about the birthday girl or boy.

Create a birthday tablecloth for your child by 11 recording their hand- and footprints in fabric paint on a plain tablecloth or piece of material. Hints: apply fabric paint to hands or feet with a sponge to reduce mess; write on the year in a permanent marker.

Let the birthday girl choose the theme of their 12 birthday cake and look for suitable designs together (see page 38 for some ideas). Then let them help you bake and decorate it. Depending on your child’s age, it might take a lot longer this way, but they’ll gain a sense of satisfaction being part of the process and their hand in it can be a talking (and praise) point at the party.

Grant your child three special birthday wishes. You 13 could be more specific: such as three things you’d like to do today; three games you’d like to play – a couple of boundaries might need to be set to keep pet ponies from appearing on the list.

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Write your child a letter telling them some of the things you love and appreciate about them; recalling some of the special events of the last year; some of the things that made you proud (challenges they have risen too), and so on. Keep a copy of the letter in a file or journal that you can give to your child when they are older to read together from time to time.

Grant them a chore-free day or get members of 15 the family to volunteer to take over some of their household duties for the day. Nobody really wants to do dog-poop duty on their birthday, parents included – here’s hoping the children will reciprocate.

Get your child to choose somebody else they’d like to 16 spoil on their birthday. This could be a friend, teacher or family member, a granny at your local old-age home or a child at an orphanage (see page 32 for ideas). Buy the chosen person a gift and drop it off or parcel it up for posting.

Have a special plate and hat that the birthday boy 17 or girl gets to use whenever there’s a birthday in the house (Mom, Dad and Granny included). You could even

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get the children to help you make the plate (you’ll need ceramic paint) and hat (creating a multicoloured felt one might be fun).

Serve the birthday boy breakfast in bed. Up the fun 18 factor by making boiled eggs and drawing a face on the shell or serving French toast with raisins for eyes and a slice of apple for a smile.

Make the birthday girl DJ for the day. She gets to 19 choose which CDs you listen to in the house, what radio station or CD is played in the car – this is her chance to create the soundtrack to her birthday.

Give them special time with you. Mom takes her 20 son out on a date, and get Dad to take his daughter on a date. Take the sports-mad child to play mini golf – just you and him. Treat your preteen daughter to the movies and a smoothie. Think about what your child most loves to do and, in the week preceding their birthday, give them the gift of one-on-one time with each parent doing one of their favourite things… with you. This is a tradition worth making a lot more regular than just once a year.

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parenting

when the door

shuts

As our children turn into teens, the need for privacy increases and doors close. How should

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musement mixed with wistfulness last year when my 13-year-old broke off in mid conversation as we reached his room, and politely but firmly closed the door behind him. “Please mom,” he said from the other side, “I need to change now and do some stuff.”

This, I knew from his 17-year-old brother, was the start of the final phase of growing up. Growing into his own person.

And growing apart from me… After the glory days of sharing, begun snugly in the womb when even our most basic

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body systems were inextricably linked, he was cutting loose – closing the door on childhood, and to a degree on me.

For all the pangs and problems it can cause parents, the closed bedroom door signals a need for privacy that is not just normal, but crucial for teens, says psychologist Dr Peter Marshall, author of Now I Know Why Tigers Eat Their Young (Whitecap Books). “They’re not just goofing off,” he explains. “They spend a large part of their time just thinking about things, trying to figure out who they are,

who they want to become. There’s a lot of work for them to do, and they need some space to do it.”

Besides, as sociology professor Frank Furedi, author of Paranoid Parenting (Penguin), puts it: “There are moments in everyone’s life when you feel uncomfortable with the world and you want to be on your own. You might wish to do things that would be embarrassing in front of others, like examining parts of your body.” When teens shut the door or tell you to go away there’s no point being hurt, he says: “You

should respect this, and knock on the door before going in.”

It’s when parents just don’t get it, and keep pushing, that trouble comes.

“Teens can get really resentful and stop communicating with you,” warns psychologist Gael Lindenfield, author of Confident Teens: How to Raise a Positive, Confident and Happy Teenager (Thorsons).

so, should we worry?

“Teens’ need for privacy and time alone does not necessarily mean they

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

we handle this? GLYNIS HORNING reports.

have something to hide,” says humandevelopment specialist Kelly Warzinik, co-author of Family Life in 20th-Century America (Greenwood). “They need to be allowed to make choices and learn from their mistakes. What they do not need, however, is complete freedom and privacy.” Teens must still be monitored to make sure they are safe.

There’s a fine line between monitoring teens and respecting privacy. “Teens often complain that their parents interfere with their independence,” Warzinik says, “but they also appreciate their parents’ concern.”

Johannesburg counselling psychologist Karin Steyn sees this often in her practice.

“One girl told me she thought her parents didn’t love her. When I asked why, she said they didn’t care if her room was a mess or what she did in there or in her life; they let her do whatever she wanted. Children need boundaries to feel cared for and secure.”

messing with their mess By closing their doors, teens are creating a space “to learn the art of taking control of life for themselves and being responsible,” says Steyn. “Their room is their sanctuary,

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an extension of themselves, but many parents think because it’s in their house, it’s their space. They’re bothered that if it’s a mess guests may see this and think them bad parents.”

The closed bedroom door signals a need for privacy that is not just normal, but crucial for teens.

A more valid reason for teens to keep their room tidy, and one she advises explaining to them, is that their room is a mental projection of what goes on in their heads. “It’s okay for it to be a bit messy, but they should be expected to make their bed, keep it clean and put clothes in the wash basket, or their lives too will be a mess.” But don’t rearrange a messy room, says Steyn. “Just make suggestions – then let them learn from consequences, like having nothing clean to wear.”

Of greater concern to most parents than the appearance of teens’ rooms, however, is what they may get up to there. “This has everything to do with the relationship you’ve created with your children from the time they were babies,” she says.

“If you’ve given them strong values and clear boundaries, and established mutual respect and trust, you should be fine.”

earning trust Trust is always earned, says Steyn. “There are parents who say they’d never invade their children’s privacy. But I’ve also seen a mother whose son committed suicide.

Later she found references to suicide in his diary. She told me if she could do things over, she’d have read it earlier.”

While Steyn wouldn’t condone this, she sympathises with her, and with a father who confided recently that he too had gone through a child’s diary. “He felt bad, but she was in puberty, temperamental, and experimenting with relationships, and she’d stopped communicating with him.

He was worried.”

It’s the job of parents to find out what’s happening in their children’s lives,

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especially if they stop communicating or you pick up warning signs of depression or self-destructive behaviour, Steyn says.

(See box entitled: “keep eyes open when doors close”.) “Most teens tell me ‘I try to speak to my parents but they don’t understand me’. Your attitude is crucial.”

She suggests saying, “I may have my own beliefs, but I’m open to yours and others.

I respect that you are your own person, but I need to tell you why I feel differently.”

Parents harp on about wishing children had open doors, she adds, “But what it often comes down to is parents having open minds. If yours is open enough for

literally and figuratively to your teen’s world. This can strengthen rather than destroy your relationship.”

Steyn’s mother (a fellow psychologist) set the tone for what Steyn often advises parents when it comes to cigarettes or alcohol. “Mom smelt in my room that I’d been smoking. She sat down next to me and said firmly: ‘If you want to mess up your lungs, it’s your decision. But you’re not doing it with my permission or where I can smell it. Smoking is not a healthy, responsible thing to do’.” Steyn continued to experiment with cigarettes, “But I knew she was right so it didn’t last.”

Parents harp on about wishing that their children still had open doors, but what it often comes down to is parents having open minds. them to feel able to come and talk to you about anything, and you keep working at that relationship, showing a genuine interest in them and their friends, likes and dislikes, many problems will simply not arise or will be dealt with before they amount to anything.”

a right to snoop?

If, however, in spite of your best attempts to speak to your teen, they remain withdrawn and uncommunicative, and there are other warning signs, you have not only the right but the responsibility to intrude on their space, says Durban counselling psychologist Akashni Maharaj. Just don’t sneak in – tell them you are doing it: “I’m worried about you and as your mother I’m still responsible for you. I’m going to have to look in your bedroom.” Then go in and do it together. “This can be viewed as a reciprocal show of trust, caring and understanding,” Maharaj says. “Rather than having your action questioned and seen as invasive, you open the door both

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Exploding in anger and telling teens you forbid them to do things is invariably futile. Unless they buy into your reasoning they will often continue elsewhere and be more reluctant to turn to you in future.

talking ’bout sex, baby!

Rising sexuality and social expectations of how they should handle this are behind much teen angst and experimentation behind closed doors. “Masturbation is perfectly natural, and just one reason to always knock,” says Steyn. “Walking in on a private moment can be difficult for them, especially if your attitude is outrage or fury.

So many of the issues around guilt and sexuality that we see in adults stem from teen experiences like that. They need to be able to do things without fear of being judged or condemned.”

But when it comes to having friends of the opposite sex behind closed doors, be guided by your own values, and again make these clear, she says. “Tell them ‘I don’t feel comfortable with the idea of your magazine joburg

wanting to be a sexual being at this stage.

I don’t think you’re emotionally ready, and your studies should be your priority if you want to succeed in life’.”

the net effect The biggest sexual danger behind closed teen doors today, however, comes from online sex sites and social networking – even if teens are not actively looking for it. “Developmentally, adolescence is when teens naturally hunt for information that helps satiate their interest in better understanding changes to themselves and the opposite sex,” says Maharaj. “When doors shut, open communication with your teens about sexuality and how vulnerable they are to predators online is vital.”

She advises keeping computers in family rooms, not teen’s bedrooms. If necessary, restrict them to a phone without internet access. A survey by the Pew Internet & American Life Project showed 32 percent of online teens (43 percent of social-networking ones) have been contacted online by strangers and 17 percent of online teens (31 percent of social networking ones) have “friends” on their social network profile that they’ve never met in person. British research shows

more than one in three teen girls have had sexually explicit messages, pictures or videos on their cell phones.

“Make your home a ‘safe to talk’ zone where your child who is online can talk to you about their online friends and topics doing the rounds online,” advises Maharaj.

“Rather than getting angry and removing privileges, become part of their world.

This gives an ideal opportunity for having healthy discussions about sensitive and potentially dangerous issues they may become privy to.”

Again, it’s important that teens know you trust them, so if you plan to check their emails or smses, tell them you will be doing it, for their protection. This can serve as a deterrent, and be welcome leverage against pressure from friends to participate in activities like sexting that they themselves don’t feel ready for. You can also use filters, by subscribing to Net Nanny, SurfWatch, CyberPatrol or CYBERsitter. You can even make your membership of social networking sites like MXit a proviso of their joining.

Just don’t be tempted to be their “friend” outside of these sites, cautions Steyn. “More than ever once doors close, your teen needs you as a parent, not a friend.”

keep eyes open when doors close Without being unduly suspicious, stay alert to signs of the following: post traumatic stress (This can manifest after internet bullying or coercing) • difficulty sleeping • difficulty concentrating • irritability • hypervigilence • exaggerated startle response depression • long periods alone in their room • withdrawal • unusual moodiness • changes in eating patterns • changes in sleeping patterns • neglect of appearance • falling grades huffing (Inhaling chemical vapours from household products for a euphoric effect) • Slurred speech • Chemical smell on breath

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Runny, red nose Sores around nose and mouth Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting

substance abuse • as above, plus: • bloodshot eyes, enlarged or reduced pupils • sudden use of incense in their room, mouthwash or mints choking game (Chasing a euphoric or erotic high by cutting blood flow to the brain) • disorientation after being alone in their room • increased irritability or hostility • marks on their neck • frequent headaches • bloodshot eyes • bleeding spots under facial skin • unexplained scarves, cords, belts or plastic bags, especially tied to the furniture

If you notice any of these, keep calm. Tell your teen what you’ve seen, that you are concerned because you love them, and that you want to help. If they still won’t open up to you, take them to a psychologist or counsellor.

For parenting advice contact Famsa: 031 202 8987, 021 447 7951 or the Family Life Centre: 011 788 4784. For substance abuse advice, contact SANCA: 031 303 2202/202 2274, 011 482 1070 or 021 945 4080. For depression advice, contact SADAG: 0800 567 567 or sms 31393

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May 2011

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how to

party fun for any space Old-fashioned party games are the perfect way to keep an energetic group of children entertained.

CHILD MAGAZINE brings you twists on some of the classics as well as some great new ones.

These games and activities are perfect for grassy gardens where noisy shrieks can be expected.

piñata A papier-mâché or cardboard shape filled with sweets, prizes and confetti is hung up high. Players take turns hitting it with a stick until it breaks open and the treasure falls to the ground. They then collect as much loot as they can. themes, twists and tips Making a piñata is not that difficult: use craft glue to stick strips of newspaper to a large balloon. Leave to dry overnight then cut a small hole in the top. Paint, decorate, fill with sweets and hang. best for ages 3–6

icebreaker Treats and prizes are frozen in layers in a large plastic bucket. The ice block is removed from the mould and

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placed on the grass. Players take turns to scoop a cup of water from a bucket, run and pour it over the ice, attempting to melt it and free a prize. themes, twists and tips Freezing the ice in layers over a few days will ensure the treats are better distributed.

The larger the bucket or container the more fun – having a chest freezer helps. Freeze two ice blocks and make it a team relay. best for ages 3–8

balloon stomp Divide players into two teams and tie balloons around each player’s ankles. Each team must now pop the other team’s balloons while keeping their own intact. themes, twists and tips Choose two different colour balloons to separate teams. Add music and let players stomp until the music stops at which point they must all freeze. Anyone who doesn’t freeze is out of the game. best for ages 4–8

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

back garden

small indoor spaces No garden? No problem. These indoor games and activities can be played in even the smallest apartment.

the princess. Pencil the initials of each player where he pins on the tail so you can keep track. best for ages 2–6

balloon pop

mystery foods

Place a small note inside each balloon before blowing it up or filling it with helium. These notes can include dares, forfeits, jokes or the names of prizes (Hooray!

You’ve won a...). Tie the balloons into bouquets using ribbon and let each player take a turn to pop a balloon using a pin or by stomping on it. themes, twists and tips Choose balloons in your colour theme. Place small treats such as mini fizzers into each balloon instead of a note. To keep a helium balloon weighed down, place a brick or rock inside a small gift bag and tie the ribbons to the handle. best for ages 4–8

Place 10 to 15 different foods with distinct flavours but varying textures into separate bowls. Try strawberries, bananas, chocolate, peanut butter, mayonnaise, gherkins, olives, popcorn, tomato sauce and mustard.

Cut the solid foods into tiny pieces. Blindfold each child and have her smell each dish. If she can’t identify it correctly she must taste a small sample of it. Give her two points if she identifies by smell and one point for taste. At the end tally the points to see who wins. themes, twists and tips For younger children choose tastes they will enjoy. For older children you can throw in a sour surprise such as lemon juice or vinegar. best for ages 6–12

pin the tail on the donkey Draw a donkey with an X for a tail. Draw a separate tail onto cardboard or make one from wool. Players are blindfolded and spun around three times with the tail in hand and they then need to feel their way to the donkey and try to stick the tail in the correct position. The most accurate player wins a prize. themes, twists and tips For a modern twist, pin the watch on Ben 10, the bat on Batman or the crown on

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them how to ice butterflies, frogs and clown faces. Bake your cupcakes in flat-bottomed icecream cones – no wrappers to tidy up. No time to bake cupcakes? Use Marie Biscuits instead. best for ages 2–10

ice it Bake a batch of cupcakes and make bowls of various colour icing using icing sugar, water and food colouring.

Throw in a platter of interesting toppings (cherries, sprinkles, nuts and coconut) along with some plastic teaspoons and let children decorate their own cakes. themes, twists and tips Match icing to your theme colours or bake the cakes in themed wrappers. Show

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how to

beach With outdoor games and activities that suit a sandy terrain, you can make use of common beach accessories.

water balloon toss Standing in two opposing lines, players gently toss a water balloon to each other and try to catch it without letting it burst. After each successful catch they take one step backwards. Once it pops, the players are out. The last pair standing wins. themes, twists and tips This game works just as well with a tennis ball, though this isn’t quite as much fun. best for ages 5–10

sandman Have players divide into teams. Each team must collect twigs, shells and pebbles from the beach and then build a large sandman (similar to a snowman). The best sandman wins. themes, twists and tips Bring sets of old clothing along and have teams “dress” their sandman. Take photos of each guest next to his sandman and use these as “thank you for coming to my beach party” cards later. best for ages 4–12

musical towels Think musical chairs but use beach towels instead. Each player lays his towel out and dances around to the music while one towel is removed. When the music stops, players must find a towel and lie down.

The player caught without a towel is out. themes, twists and tips Add in an activity such as doing sit-ups in a row to ensure players don’t cheat by hovering over the towels. best for ages 3–12

park These outdoor games and activities don’t require large props – we know you have enough to carry as it is.

sticker tag Think paintball without the pain. Buy a couple of packs of sticky dots or squares and distribute one sheet per player. Have players run around and tag each other by sticking stickers on their backs. At the end of the game the player who has been tagged the least wins. themes, twists and tips Divide into teams so players only tag members of the other team. best for ages 3–12

relay races Divide players into two teams and have them race against the other team to win prizes. Traditional variations include a sack race, a three-legged race or an eggand-spoon race. Hard-boiled eggs minimise the mess. themes, twists and tips Introduce obstacles to the race to make it more interesting. A fun alternative is for players to run while holding onto an untied balloon filled with water without spilling any of it. best for ages 2–12

treasure hunt Children love a good treasure hunt. Scope out your local park and then draw landmark clues such as trees, slides and swings on index cards. At each point they should find another clue card and eventually the last clue will lead them to a treasure map, which tells them where the treasure is buried or hidden. Use a shoebox and fill it with chocolate coins and party favours. themes, twists and tips For older children, write out riddles as clues instead of drawing pictures. best for ages 4–12

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pool With games and activities that can be played in and beside the pool, you can use common pool toys and props.

spoon dive Gather up all the different sized spoons in your house (except your vintage cutlery) and toss them into the bottom of the pool. Let the children dive in to retrieve the spoons. Break guests up into smaller groups if there are lots of children. The child who retrieves the most spoons wins a prize. themes, twists and tips Tie different coloured ribbons around the handles of the spoons and assign values to each colour, so a red ribbon might be worth five points while a blue one is worth 10. Total up points to determine the winner or allocate small prizes and treats to each colour. best for ages 5–10

noodle joust Two players straddle a lilo while jousting with pool noodles to knock the other player into the water. Once a player is knocked off, a new challenger takes his place. The last player on the lilo is the champion. themes, twists and tips This game can get rough so make sure to supervise at all times. best for ages 6–12

poolside relay Players are divided into two teams. The first player in each team must race with a pool noodle between his legs to a second point where he drops the noodle and puts on a pair of flippers, large baggies and snorkelling mask. He then runs back to his team where he swaps his outfit with the next player, who then runs to the second point to undress and fetch the noodle. The race continues like this until the last player has finished. themes, twists and tips Use your imagination to add silly actions and extra pool props, and remember to play this game away from the edge of the pool. best for ages 6–12

restaurant These quieter activities and games can be played around a restaurant table, but still allow for lots of fun.

marshmallow art A bag of marshmallows and a pack of toothpicks can provide fabulous entertainment as pairs of players have to compete at building simple 3D shapes such as stars, dogs and houses. themes, twists and tips Choose shapes that correspond to the theme. Add in different shape, size and colour marshmallows to keep it interesting. best for ages 6–12

bingo Prepare bingo cards (index cards with pictures or numbers on them). Each card should be unique. Have a set of master cards and show one master card at a time while players find the matching picture on their playing card and cross it off.

The first player to cross off all their pictures or numbers says “Bingo” and wins. themes, twists and tips Use pictures or symbols on the Bingo cards that correspond to your party theme. best for ages 5–12

general knowledge Print pages with 10 blank columns and 26 rows (one for each letter of the alphabet).

Give each player a sheet and pencil and then call out a theme such as “boys’ names”. Give players two timed minutes to fill the first column; each new row corresponding to the next letter in the alphabet (Andile, Bob, Charlton, Dave etc).

Players get one point for each space they fill. Tally up points to see who wins. themes, twists and tips Themes can include cars, countries, colours, girls’ names, bands and cartoon characters. best for ages 8–12

For more game ideas visit www.childmag.co.za/content/age-appropriate-parties

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parenting

crossing the line Creating boundaries and limits for our own children is part of everyday parenting. But should

’d always thought that other people’s children were other people’s business; that their behaviour – good or bad – had nothing to do with me. Yet, just recently I found myself admonishing two nine-year-olds who were throwing stones at squirrels. I didn’t think twice about telling them off.

but, is it really okay to discipline other people’s children?

“When it comes to discipline, it’s so important that adults have a very firm grasp of what true discipline actually is,” says Anne Cawood, a social worker and school counsellor from Cape Town. “If you believe that discipline

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and punishment are synonymous, then it could present problems when it comes to disciplining children who are not your own. However, if you have the mindset that discipline means teaching, guiding and socialising, then it becomes important for any adult who sees unacceptable behaviour in a child to set firm, gentle boundaries for the child. Children need help to learn that there will always be certain expectations – and that these may be different in varying situations,” says Cawood, who has four children, and is the author of the Boundaries series of parenting books.

Your approach to other children very often depends on the relationship you have with that child’s parents. If

your values are similar, discipline can be a collaborative effort. But, as Johannesburg-based clinical psychologist Liane Lurie says, “Once upon a time we might have said ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ but, today, with children being exposed to or experiencing drugs, pornographic material and sexual practices at an earlier age, parents are bound to be more protective over the kinds of messages our children may receive from others. We may very often take a shielding stance that what our child does is no-one else’s business,” says Lurie, whose work focuses on children and young people. “This could make us defensive and resistant to anyone else guiding our children.”

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PHOTOGRAPHS: THINKSTOCKPHOTOS.COM

we be applying the same rules to the offspring of others? JOANNE LILLIE asks the experts.

If you believe that discipline means teaching, guiding and socialising, then it becomes important for any adult who sees unacceptable behaviour in a child to set firm, gentle boundaries.

There is a very fine line between causing offence by interfering, or helping and preventing harm, and this is where the issue gets contentious. Most moms we spoke to said they would not interfere with another’s parenting, but there may be two exceptions to this. “Even if you have been placed in a position of authority – the parent has trusted

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you to look after the child on a play date, for example – or because the child is doing something potentially harmful to himself or another child, it’s a very tricky situation,” says Cape Town multimedia designer and mom Lanielle Gould.

“It’s tricky because behaviour, attitude and even what is regarded as harmful can be subjective.

“I had an experience where a friend’s child put her hand too close to the open flames of a braai. Another friend snatched her hand away to prevent her being burnt.

The child’s mother was furious because the little girl got a fright and she felt the other woman had been too rough,” says Lanielle.

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parenting

house rules “If a child is with you – either in your home or when you are out somewhere, then you need to set the rules and limits,” says Cawood. “A child may be allowed to control the TV remote in his own home, but if he walks into your home and picks up the remote to change the channel you have every right – in fact, responsibility – to say, firmly: ‘Sorry, in this home the children have to ask before changing the channel – please will you give it to me.’ This is fair and very respectful. Similarly, if you are on an outing and your child’s friend demands a sweet at a shop, you would need to firmly state: ‘We don’t have sweets before dinner. When we have eaten you may choose a sweet from the jar, but we are not going to buy any now.’ Then remain very firm regarding this limitation,” says Cawood.

A child needs to know that what may be allowed in her own home may not be allowed in another. This provides a platform for developing respect and, later, learning to tune in to the needs of others, explains Lurie.

Lisa Lait, marketing manager and mother of Robyn, four, and Rowan, two, from Johannesburg says, “I absolutely expect children who visit my home to abide by my rules. Very often a visiting friend will end up doing something with my child that is not acceptable. In that case, I will tell both children off at the same time, starting with something like: ‘You know the rules of this house, we do not...’ Then you can only hope that they both listen, and if they don’t and the parent is there, the parent can follow through.”

Local parenting expert, Megan de Beyer adds, “Unless there is disruptive, rude or angry behaviour, we should always focus on the character and temperament of other children in our home, before we worry about rules and etiquette. The first thing to recognise is whether your child plays well with and enjoys her friend.

Also some mothers are tense when their children have friends over, which can be picked up unconsciously by the visitor and result in unwelcome behaviour.”

the parent trap We as parents can be extremely sensitive to criticism – and telling another mother or father how to manage their child could cause a rift in your relationship. There really is nothing you can do unless it is a very close friend of yours and you have an open and honest relationship, says De Beyer.

“If a guest to your child’s birthday party, for example, is being disruptive and is under age four, I’d find a way to change the play, bring in a distraction or simply give the child attention,” she says. “From five up I think it’s reasonable to speak kindly and carefully to the parent, if he/she is there. If the parent isn’t present, I would recommend that you try a distraction first.

If that fails, speak to the child kindly and clearly about her behaviour and then give a suggestion of what she can do instead. Most children between five and 10 listen to a stranger quite willingly if you communicate without anger. If she continues to be disruptive, then you could contact the parent and explain the situation and ask if they could come and

tips for gentle guidance • C hoose your battles Let the little things go and save your interventions for major incidents.

• Don’t single out the perpetrator “In setting limits, try to direct your need for order to all children concerned. Try: ‘Let’s all go and play outside for now and leave this game for later’,” advises clinical psychologist Liane Lurie.

• Use distraction first Move on to a new activity or game. Something absorbing will keep those would-be naughty hands busy.

• Avoid “you” language and punitive methods when guiding other people’s children Do not accuse or criticise the parents, rather ask for cooperation and use “I” language to express the fact that the behaviour is not acceptable in your home, says counsellor and author Anne Cawood.

• Hold your judgment Rather get to know other children and give them positive attention, then begin to set boundaries kindly. It is best not to make it difficult for your child to have friends over to play, suggests parenting expert Megan de Beyer.

• Cape Town life coach and mom of 20-month-old Joshua, Janet Chadwick, says “To understand your children’s playmates, perhaps arrange a play date or two first with the other parents in attendance. That way, you can get an idea of what to expect from the children, what sort of values and boundaries they have, and how they interact with your children.”

• Have realistic expectations Learn to communicate assertively – but never be aggressive or personal, counsels Cawood.

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There is a very fine line between causing offence by interfering, or helping, and preventing harm. deal with it. Remember it’s always how you do something rather than what you do,” says De Beyer.

“So much depends on the way things are said,” agrees Cawood. If your appeal to an unruly child is going unheeded, and you need to involve his mom or dad, try this approach: “I am sure Jason is just very excited, but he is making things very difficult to control, so would you please ask him to calm down?” If the parent continues to ignore your request, then you may need to become more assertive and give the child a choice; something like: “Please stop pushing the other children over or you will need to go and sit quietly on the chair outside.” It is all about the way you communicate how the child’s behaviour is affecting the other children – or you. “If the other parent takes offence, then that really is their problem,” says Cawood.

Another strategy when enlisting the aid of another child’s parent is to try phrasing your concerns in the plural, suggests Lurie, such as: “It seems like things are getting slightly out of hand, what should we do about it?” In this way you invoke cooperation as opposed to a feeling of blame or resistance.

out and about If you are in a public space and a child is interfering with your child, or not listening to your requests, then you should feel confident to speak firmly to the child, says Cawood.

It’s useful to remember that there may be a particular context for a child’s behaviour – he may be tired, sick, irritable or just in need of attention. “Up until a certain age, a child’s primary means of communication may be behavioural rather than verbal,” says Lurie, which means since they can’t tell you how they feel, they may act out.

In the case of a playground bully, naturally your first priority is the safety of your child. But don’t react in anger, says De Beyer. “The bully needs to know his behaviour is not okay. You could simply ask: ‘Can you explain what is going on magazine joburg

here and what you are doing?’ in order to engage with them, then say what you saw and that it’s not okay to do that. But do not shout, criticise or hit another child – we cannot correct a bully by being a bully ourselves,” she warns.

So when should you step in? Without hesitation when a child is in harm’s way or if a child is breaking the law, moms and experts agree. But as with all your parenting, focus on the behaviour you saw when offering guidance, and do not criticise a child’s character. Do it kindly, and never in anger, concludes De Beyer.

naughty monkeys need understanding Children may act in a way we see as naughty for many reasons: to attract attention, to assert their independence, or because they feel that they lack parental or adult approval on some level, and so there are no boundaries to behaviour. Some children may know the difference between right and wrong but lack the ability to control impulses or urges to act.

The behaviour of any child has what is referred to as “communication value” – it expresses something about how a child is feeling about a particular situation at a particular time. A child may, depending on his or her developmental stage or maturity, lack the vocabulary to express what he or she is processing on an emotional or cognitive level – but they do have the ability to act out or misbehave as a way of expressing distress.

Remember that unconditional acceptance doesn’t necessarily equate to approval of certain behaviours. A sound relationship can go a long way in inculcating values and managing disciplinary challenges successfully, says Johannesburg clinical psychologist Liane Lurie.

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straight up

you name it, CHRISTINA CASTLE gives the funny side of figuring out what to call your bundle of joy.

aming your baby is an emotional process. But not necessarily for the reason it should be. Just when you think you’ve decided on the “one”, someone will blow it for you. It may be your husband’s granny who announces that all firstborn boys must be called Christoffel Albertus Hendrick. Perhaps your own sister recalls that child you were at school with who was always digging in his nose and eating the treasure. “Wasn’t his name also Stuart?” Or you discover that your partner’s old university crush also just happened to be called Kate.

There are more obstacles in place when naming a baby than in a steeplechase.

And they can even appear at the point of no return…

“Spring Day,” said my obstetrician as she booked my Caesar date. “What great names you could have for a baby born on Spring Day.” She was obviously suggesting that I was having a girl, I thought, and I

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moved into hormonal overdrive as I started thinking pink and planning fresh Spring Day names: Lily, Rose, Jasmine, Daisy, Ivy, Poppy and Violet. Just imagine how I could decorate the room.

But what I eventually gave birth to on that first day of September a good number of years back was certainly no petal.

“It’s a bull calf,” said our Eastern Cape farming relatives (they could only be from my husband’s side of the family). Yep, I had given birth to a hefty 4,1kg boy – a second boy, bigger than the first. As delicious as he was, we realised we could not give him a delicate name. He needed something big – large, in fact. And with a surname like Castle, we had to be just a little careful.

When our first son was born he went nameless for about a week. In the hospital nursery he became known as Castle Lite. Friends also swamped us with their favourites: Sterling Castle, Bitterly Cold Castle, Charles Glass… We settled on Dylan.

With a vacuum of boys’ names second time round, the bull calf also spent the first few days of his life nameless. When on our final day in hospital the paediatrician strolled in to our room for a final checkup and asked if we had decided on a name, I answered proudly and deliberately. “Yes, his name is Alexander.”

in the name of naming…

Joburg’s Child is giving one lucky reader their child’s name in Jacadi lettering.

The letters are inexpensive at R40 each, are palm-size and come in a variety of pastel tones. Moms can purchase Jacadi letters to make up their children’s names, which can be placed on their bedroom door or even their cot.

The letters are available at Hyde Park Shopping Centre (011 325 6077). To enter, simply send us your details and

“Nice,” said the paediatrician, who picked up the name dictionary I had next to my bed and read: “Alexander. Leader of men.” Good name for a bull calf, I thought.

“And the diminutive forms are Alex, Alec, Lex and Sandy,” he continued, laughing.

“Good one. Sandy Castle.” Sandy Castle.

We didn’t see that one coming.

tell us where the only Jacadi store in South Africa is located. Send your entry to win@childmag.co.za with “Jacadi Win” in the subject line before 31 May 2011. Only one entry per reader.

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ILLUSTRATION: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN, Photograph: jacadi

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baby!

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ideas

no wrapping paper needed MARINA ZIETSMAN looks at out-of-the-box birthday gifts for children, and rounds up six ideas that come straight from the heart.

It might sound like a cliché, but giving to the less privileged is very rewarding. There are plenty of organisations in South Africa that enable you to sponsor a child for a fixed amount every month. Children of the Dawn (childrenofthedawn. org.za), for example, cares for Aids orphans and you can contribute a small sum every month, which pays for their school fees and other necessities. You regularly receive a letter from your sponsored child and you also get to write

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gifts that keep growing Plant a tree or start a new herb garden or veggie patch with your child on their birthday. You could even make this part of the party entertainment – hold a ceremony and hand over the plants or a watering can and a signboard that reads: “This is Inno’s garden”, for example. Gardening with your child can be a fun and much-loved activity – something she may never outgrow. Plus, she’ll enjoy watching her gift flourish, and will also learn about taking responsibility for caring for her plants. You could try a pizza herb garden by planting oregano, basil and parsley or a scented herb garden with geraniums or lavender. Planting a tree has more significance than you doing your bit for the planet. Traditionally trees have been planted in many cultures in honour of an accomplishment or an important day such as a graduation, wedding, retirement or the birth

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PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

make a new friend

to them. This way your child can contribute with his own stories, photos and drawings, or help choose a Christmas gift and school stationery to send to the sponsored child.

Your child will learn loads from his new pen pal. UNICEF (The United Nations Children’s Fund) has a project that allows your child to send a virtual gift to a child in need.

You will receive a card via the post or an e-card in your inbox as a token of thanks for contributing. Let your child choose a gift on their website and feel the thrill of making someone else happy (visit charity-gifts.org/charities/giftsin-action-from-actionaid). for further ideas for sponsoring a child visit: heartbeat.org.za isisa.co.za soschildrensvillages.org.uk worldvision.co.za

of a child. Remember to plant an indigenous tree, which is suited to the climate in your area. Did you know that many trees have a particular meaning? For example, the cedar tree stands for healing, cleansing and protection. The fig tree represents the knowledge of natural kindness and the marula tree is a symbol of fertility. for a list of indigenous trees, visit: plantzafrica.com

be creative Start a family scrapbook with memorabilia, photos, found treasure, and so on. Countless memories are built during the formative years and should be captured. It may be wise to start this book a few years in advance and then present a book of memories to your child on a birthday when he’s old enough for you to continue working on it together – this also gives you the opportunity to give the gift of time.

help a furry friend There are numerous ways to help animals in distress in South Africa – just Google “adopt a pet South Africa” and you’ll find a host of legitimate organisations that need your help. You can give a pet a home, sponsor money or goods, adopt the animal virtually or volunteer your services. And don’t forget your local zoo: at Johannesburg Zoo (jhbzoo. org.za/adopt.asp) your child can “adopt” an animal and know they are being taken care of – without you having to clean up after them. Other organisations that regularly have volunteer programmes or fundraising initiatives are the SPCA (nspca.co.za), SANCCOB (sanccob.co.za) and The Society for Animals in Distress (animalsindistress.ws).

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for more opportunities to help animals in distress visit: charitysa.co.za/animals charity-charities.org/Animals/SouthAfrica.html aacl.co.za wwf.org.za

for a rainy day Your child might not appreciate it now, but starting a university or education fund for their future is something they (and you) will be pleased about come their Grade 12 year. Plus it’s an excellent answer to requests for gift suggestions from faraway (or near) aunts, uncles and grandparents. Perhaps the quick, hard facts are enough to inspire you? Depending on which institution your child chooses, the current estimated tuition fee per year ranges from R18 000 to R36 000. Throw inflation into the mix and you can only shudder at what this might become 10 years from now. (And that’s excluding accommodation, transport, food or entertainment.)

nature. They are also excellent tools for helping parents enhance the time they spend with their children: you can do the projects and read the articles together. Sports magazines are also very popular with older children. ZigZag covers surfing with a dollop of lifestyle thrown in the mix. Plus there are magazines focusing on rugby, cricket and soccer – perfect for young boys. And remember, your child can also give any of these gifts to another child for their birthday. to find a magazine for your child, visit: ngkids.co.za zigzag.co.za/magazine

surprise in the post A magazine subscription is a gift that arrives in your postbox every so often, and few things excite children as much as receiving a parcel in the mail. National Geographic, for example, has two great children’s titles: National Geographic Little Kids (for children aged three to six) and National Geographic Kids (for children six to 13).

Both magazines inspire a love of learning and

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relationships

dinner for one two

DONNA COBBAN takes a look at what it takes for the single parent to get back into the dating game.

i

have been a parent for three years and a single parent for two them. If the truth be told I have almost forgotten where the headlights on my car are – that’s how often I have left the house after dark. A periodic dinner or movie with friends is the most I seem to manage right now, and the idea of a romantic date sends me reeling. What on earth would I talk about?

else’s plate. It’s moments like these that assure me I may one day return to dating.

Although I am at peace with not dating, my friends do worry about my isolation.

When a close friend suggested I try internet dating (she found good love this way, so I cannot knock the idea, only the feasibility), I responded as follows: “That’s a great idea, my profile would read: single mom looking for the impossibly perfect man and

In addition to this, dating has lost its allure, perhaps it’s the number of nappies I am still changing, but I have an inkling that it’s more than that. My programming has changed; my priorities have done a 360.

Who I date now is no longer just about me, and right now it is an area into which I am not yet prepared to venture. Despite this, I did look longingly at a ravishingly goodlooking man in my local supermarket, noting him buying just a lemon and a bunch of coriander. I could almost taste the romantic dinner destined for someone

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possibly one day perfect stepdad to spend no time with at all – because I don’t have any to spare.” Not being able to muster up the inclination myself, I go in search of tales from those forging ahead of me and I meet Peter*.

package deal Peter is a single dad to three-year-old Joshua*. Although Peter shares joint custody with Joshua’s mother, Joshua spends the majority of his time with him. Time for dating is thus, understandably, a little tight. magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPHS AND ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Women without children are “happy to date a single father at first, however, once the realities of the ‘package deal’ sink in, things usually change.”

His experience so far tells him that women without children are “happy to date a single father at first, however, once the realities of the ‘package deal’ and ‘instant family’ sink in, things usually change.”

He tells of how he once had a woman say, “I don’t like your child around me with his crying and performing – can we rather just hang out when he isn’t there?” Joshua had a five-second tantrum, says Peter, after three hours of being a happy child.

“Needless to say,” he says, “I didn’t see her again!”

“Things seem to work better with single mothers,” he lets on, “they understand the time constraints and the lack of spontaneity that comes with shared schedules with expartners. “Yet,” he says, “the problem with this is that meeting single mothers is a lot more challenging. At the local park you will invariably strike up casual conversations with other single and not-so-single parents.

However, conversations seem to remain rooted in milestone chitchat. Bringing up a potential play date (or actual date) with someone you have potential romantic inclinations towards while in the park with your child seems a bit creepy to me.”

Perhaps we are still too self-conscious as a nation to cope with casually amorous overtures of this kind?

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Peter’s other attempts at dating have all fallen short. Despite being a selfproclaimed flirt, meeting a woman in a bar to learn she has sole custody of her children and to then watch her leave intoxicated to pick them up, has put meeting women this way firmly out of the picture. A stint doing some online dating has also led to naught and Peter wryly suggests that possibly he is destined to be an eternal bachelor. “Perhaps I’ll meet the kind of woman I would never introduce to my son on my ‘off’ weekends and spend the rest of the time with my son.” Yet in the same breath he admits it would be nice to have someone to share life with properly.

A single parent who has found someone to share her life with is Heather*, mother to Finn* aged nine. Heather was a single mom from the time Finn was born. She entered into the dating game cautiously and slowly and, as luck would have it, with her neighbour. After a year of friendship they very circumspectly started dating, but the neighbour never spent the night. They both agreed that they needed to be sure that this was going to be a solid long-term commitment before they involved Finn.

So, for over a year, Finn was none the wiser. Then one night as the neighbour was tiptoeing out the front door, Finn

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woke and asked him why he was leaving.

They then let the relationship out into the open and last year they all happily moved in together.

Dating with a toddler or teenager can be equally challenging, but the following story gives some heart-warming insight into how it can work. Catherine*, who has been single as long as she and her teen son can remember, has recently met someone – not a casual meet-you-forcoffee-after-the-PTA encounter, but one that she has breathed a lifetime’s longing into and an encounter that has lifted her off her feet and made her lose her breath – yet she has held back, waiting to gauge her only son’s response. Her worries were soon put to rest when her new love bought her son an expensive gadget in an unconscious attempt to win him over and to out-buy a gift bought for him by his stepmother. Her son examined the present slowly then looked up at Catherine and said, “Tell him that I really appreciate the gift, but the only competition is who makes my parents happier!” *Names have been changed

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little black book Here are some useful websites and phone numbers:

getting out there Stuck for ideas on how to meet new people? Why not join a club?

Cycling, hiking, surfing, running or doing something that involves sunshine and sport are all good ideas. Generally speaking, this will put you in touch with other healthy individuals. They may not all be single but increasing your circle of friends can lead to increased support and understanding.

link up Many of these dating sites are all owned by one large portal so while you may get fed up and see some of the same old faces, you will also hopefully find some happy new ones. singleparents.co.za singleparentdatingsouthafrica.com singlewithkids.co.za singlemoms.co.za getting help Contact FAMSA’s Family Life Centre for any family-related issues you are experiencing – their well-trained staff are there to help and guide you. Contact: 011 788 4784/5, famlife@iafrica.com or visit familylife.co.za

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making it work Kim Fairon, a Johannesburg-based psychologist, answers a few questions about dating as a single parent.

How soon is too soon?

If a person is single as a result of divorce or separation it is essential that a period of time (at least three to six months) is taken to grieve for and mourn the death of the marriage or long-term relationship before embarking on any dating. This time allows both the single parent and the children to work through the loss of the person or parent who is no longer part of the day-to-day family life. I would encourage single parents to seek some form of counselling for themselves and their children during this period as it can optimise their moving through the grief process. If a person is still not able to see or feel themselves moving on after approximately 18 months to two years post-divorce or

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separation, then seeking counselling becomes even more important.

What should I do when I am ready?

When a single parent feels they are ready to date, then the key concept is taking things slowly. Try the initial date on an evening or weekend when your ex is looking after the children. Children who have experienced their parents getting divorced or separated have a great fear of being abandoned by their parent in favour of a new adult partner. It is, therefore, vital that you only introduce your children to your dating partner when it has been decided that you are in a committed relationship with that person. Even when your partner and children have met each other, it is very important to take things slowly – children need to feel that they are still very important in your life. Keep affirming your personal commitment

and love for each child. Think carefully about how to handle sleepovers when the children are in the home as these do signal that the relationship is serious.

Talk to your children about it and find out how they feel and work together to negotiate privacy for you and security for them. They need to feel safe about how this new relationship will impact their lives.

What should I do if we both have children?

If the new partner also has children then the family dynamic can get quite complicated. Again take things slowly.

Introduce the children to each other in a non-threatening environment, which involves some kind of activity (a round of miniature golf, for example) to absorb awkward moments. Even if the new relationship is a committed and serious one, I would advise single parents to avoid living together or getting married

too quickly. Combining families can be very traumatic for all concerned and this needs to be handled very carefully. Family therapy is a constructive way for all involved to feel safe to say what they feel and for some solutions to be facilitated by the therapist that could make the blended family feel more cohesive and less fragmented. It is also important that each parent is responsible for disciplining their biological child/ren and that each parent makes time to spend one-onone time with their biological children without any other company.

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book extract

cake time!

Stuck for an idea for this year’s birthday cake? JENNY DODD offers four great recipes to make your child’s party one to remember.

farmyard frolics Here’s just the cake for a farm-inspired party… get creative and transform your home into a farmyard. Soon moos, oinks and baas will fill the air at this happy event. Great for three- to six-year-olds.

1. Bake the cake according to the recipe and leave to cool completely.

2. Coat the upper two-thirds of the cake with green icing while the “field” section (the lower third) should be iced brown to resemble soil. Mark off the different areas – field of vegetables, pig in mud, field of sunflowers.

3. Separate the field from the grassed section with a row of sugared fruit cubes.

4. Coat the muddy section with brown icing and place the pig in position, with streaks of mud dripping off the toy.

5. Form a few bushy shrubs from icing for the sheep to graze on.

6. Dot a few kernels of corn for the chickens to enjoy.

7. Use a star nozzle to mark out the fields, adding a gold ball on alternate stars.

8. “Plant” one field of melons.

9. Use orange Astros to form carrot heads. Pull out green icing tops. Do the same using dark red submerged Astros to simulate beetroot.

10. Attach the sunflowers to the cocktail sticks with Prestik and insert into the cake.

11. Place the scarecrow in position to oversee the crop.

12. Place the tree in position and scatter red Astros on the grassed section to resemble apples.

suggested game: feed the ducks Fill a plastic tub with water and float two or three small rubber ducks on the surface. (Be mindful of smaller children – fill the tub at time of play and do not leave unattended; empty immediately after the game.)

The children line up behind a marker at a predetermined distance away from the tub. Children take turns to attempt to toss the ball into the tub. Successful children choose a prize from a basket, and the game continues until each child has hit the target. (Those who struggle may be permitted to move closer to the bucket.)

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PHOTOGRAPHS: RYNO, ILLUSTRATIONS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

• 1 x basic cake (see box on page 41) prepared in a 280mm square tin • icing (see box on page 41) – green, brown, yellow, blue • sugared fruit cubes • plastic farmyard toys • gold balls • melon sweets • large Astros • small craft sunflowers • wooden cocktail sticks • Prestik • small novelty scarecrow • small plastic tree

putting par-tee!

Make this above par birthday cake, load it and the gang into your car and head to your local mini-golf venue. From the first tee to the last, loads of fun will be had by all. This theme works well for ages eight to 12 (or 80!).

• 1 x basic cake (see box on page 41) baked in a rectangular 320 x 220mm baking tin • sugar paste • powdered food colouring – green, brown • 1 x chocolate-dipped pretzel stick • wooden skewers • icing (see box on page 41) – green, flesh, blue • edible glitter • 1 x Marie biscuit or Rich Tea biscuit, crushed • dolls of choice • gold balls 1. Bake the cake according to the recipe and leave to cool completely.

2. Roll a small golf ball from a pinch of sugar paste. Colour some sugar paste with green colouring and fashion a green triangular flag. Set aside to firm up, and then attach it to a pretzel stick with a dab of icing.

3. Fashion two putters by moulding a putter head from brown sugar paste and attaching it to a wooden skewer cut to size to fit doll. Set aside.

4. Demarcate the putting course on the cake. Coat the putting green surface with green icing.

5. Colour some more sugar paste with green food colouring and roll out to 3–4mm thick. Cut out the shape of the putting area and place in position on the cake.

6. Create a slight hollow in the cake for the bunker, and then cover with fleshcoloured icing.

7. Create another hollow in the cake for the water hazard and coat with blue icing. Sprinkle with edible glitter.

8. Coat the sides of the cake with green icing.

9. Use a multiple hole nozzle to create grass on the remaining surface of the cake.

10. Sprinkle the biscuit crumbs in the bunker.

11. Place the flag in position, together with the ball.

12. Attach wooden skewers to the dolls for support and insert into the cake.

13. Use a dab of icing to place the putters in the dolls’ hands.

14. Enhance with sugar paste flowers as illustrated.

high school rock If your preteen is dreaming of a High School Musical themed party, then here’s a cake to make her day.

• 2 x basic cakes (see box on page 41) – baked in 320 x 220mm tins • icing (see box on page 41) – white, red • wooden skewers and silver balls • sugared jelly sweets for spotlights • dolls of choice • Prestik 1. Bake the cakes according to the recipe and leave to cool completely.

2. Cut a 200 x 220mm rectangle from each cake and sandwich together with icing to form the stage.

3. Slice one of the remaining 120 x 220mm pieces into three 40 x 220mm strips.

Place these three strips along the back of the stage for the curtain, sandwiching together with icing and using wooden skewers to secure. (Freeze the other remaining 120 x 220mm piece for later use in a trifle or something similar.)

4. Coat the upper surface of the stage with white icing and the sides of the cake with red icing.

5. Coat the curtains with red icing and use the star or ribbon nozzle to create the drapes. Jazz up with silver balls.

6. Position the sugared jelly sweets along the front edge of the stage for spotlights.

7. Attach the dolls to wooden skewers with Prestik and insert into the cake as illustrated.

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book extract

stone age Dinosaurs remain an all-time favourite with children – team them with cavemen and cavewomen and your party will be a roaring success. Here’s a cake for the big day. This theme works well with five- to 10-year-olds.

• 2 x basic cake mixture (see box on page 41) – baked as 1 x 280mm square cake, 1 x 200mm round cake, 1 x 1,5 litre pudding-bowl cake • icing (see box on page 41) – brown, yellow • “greenery” available from craft shops • Crunchie honeycomb sweet pieces • speckled egg sweets • 2 x small dolls • plastic dinosaurs • chocolate-coated nuts in varying sizes • white bone-shaped sweets 1. Prepare the cake batter as per the recipe. Use the one batch for the square cake and divide the second cake batter mixture between the round tin and the oven-proof pudding bowl. Because of the depth of the bowl cake, the baking time should be extended to 50–60 minutes. Leave the cakes to cool completely.

2. Coat the upper surface of the round cake with brown icing. Trim the surface of the pudding bowl cake if necessary and place flat side down on top of the round cake. Hollow out a cave entrance, using the removed section to “pad” around the base of the dome if necessary to fit neatly on the round cake.

3. Coat the square cake with brown icing and place the cave in position as illustrated.

4. Insert the artificial greenery as illustrated.

5. Create a quarry with the Crunchie honeycomb sweet pieces.

6. Create a dinosaur nest with a mixture of brown and yellow icing and place the speckled eggs inside.

7. Place one of the dolls on the back of a dinosaur, securing with Prestik, and position on the cake. Add the other doll and dinosaurs as illustrated.

8. Pile the chocolate-coated nuts on the cake to resemble rocks.

9. Randomly scatter the white bone sweets around the cave.

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suggested game: musical dino prints Trace the template (see page 41) onto the cardboard and cut out dinosaur footprints, one less than the number of children. Place on the ground in the play area. On starter’s orders and to music, the children dance about – when the music stops each child rushes to a footprint. The last child is extinct. Play continues and with each round a footprint is removed, thus ensuring that there is always an extra child. The last child remaining receives a prize.

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basic icing This recipe is sufficient to ice the basic cake, for larger cakes or where the star nozzle is used, the quantity will need to be doubled.

• 100g white margarine, at room temperature • 2½ cups (625ml) icing sugar, sifted • 5 tsp (25ml) boiling water • ½ tsp (2,5ml) vanilla essence

Template for putting par-tee cake

Template for musical dino prints

basic cake • • • • • • • •

4 extra-large eggs 300g (300ml) white sugar 2½ cups (625ml) cake (plain) flour 4 tsp (20ml) baking powder pinch of salt ¾ cup (180ml) oil ¾ cup (180ml) water 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla essence

1. Preheat the oven to 180˚C (350˚F).

2. Beat the eggs, then gradually add the sugar and beat until thick and pale.

3. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking powder and salt together.

4. In another bowl, lightly whisk the oil, water and vanilla essence to combine.

5. Gently fold the dry ingredients, alternately with the liquid, into the egg mixture.

6. Pour the cake mixture into the required greased pan(s) – see individual recipes for details.

7. Bake for 30–35 minutes. To test whether the cake is baked through, insert a skewer into the centre of the cake. If it comes out clean, it is done.

8. Turn out onto a rack to cool completely before icing.

magazine joburg

1. Mix together the margarine and sifted icing sugar.

2. Add the boiling water, a little at a time, and mix until the desired consistency is obtained.

3. Add the vanilla essence.

4. Once the icing has been mixed, it may be coloured by adding powdered colouring, blending in small quantities (about ¼ tsp) at a time, until the desired shade is obtained. Liquid colouring may also be used, but take care that the consistency does not become too runny.

about the book Party Party by Jenny Dodd (Struik Lifestyle) offers a great collection of children’s birthday party themes.

From “feisty fire engines” and “karate kicks” to “birthday bugs” and “enchanted forest”, there’s party inspiration galore. With suggestions for invitations, food, games and activities, treat bags, birthday cakes and décor, this book will help you plan the perfect celebration for your child. Available at all good bookshops nationwide.

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resource You can also access the party guide online at childmag.co.za

Accessories and services ABC Kids Party Time Specialists in party packs filled with quality sweets as well as toys in buckets, boxes and loot bags.

Cakes, cupcakes and platters on request.

Children’s tables, chairs and linen for hire.

Prices vary. Contact Debbie: 082 301 6875, abckidspartytime@gmail.com or visit rent-a-party.co.za About Party Hire Rents out marquees, trestle tables, adult and children’s chairs as well as cutlery, crockery and glasses.

Marquees from R995, delivery and setup an additional R300 in Johannesburg.

Contact Bry-Anne: 011 462 0791, 076 688 0986, fun@aboutpartyhire.co.za or visitaboutpartyhire.co.za Absolute Fun Entertainment Provides jumping castles, Ferris wheels, farmyard animals, clowns, magicians and face painting at your home or a venue of your choice. Party packs and cakes also supplied. Contact Debbie: 083 447 3866, djacobs1000@worldonline.co.za or visit absolutefun.co.za Amajumping Castlezzz Offers inflatable jumping castles, themed accessories, queen cakes and scones and children’s chairs and tables. They deliver, set-up and collect. Contact: 071 638 8501 or visit blackpot.co.za Angelic Creations Supplies cakes, picture cakes, 2D and 3D cakes and digit cakes. Also party packs, piñatas, themed cups, plates, serviettes, banners, tablecloths and hats. From R14. Contact Angie: 082 784 0224, angie@angeliccreations.co.za or visit angeliccreations.co.za A-Z Creative Entertainment Offers perfume making, djembe drumming, junior chefs, green thumbs gardening and art and crafts. Equipment hire includes candyfloss machines, popcorn machines, bubble blowers, chocolate fountains, slush puppy machines and soft serve machines

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with operators. The mobile chef offers interactive cooking workshops or they cook for your event. Contact: 011 682 2660, 072 373 8963, zelda@creative-entertainment. co.za or visit creative-entertainment.co.za Balloon Magic Delivers themed balloons such as Western, Christmas, Chinese, underwater, Valentine’s Day, clowns, Halloween and animals. Prices on request.

Contact: 011 892 4219, cindy@balloonmagic.co.za or visit balloon-magic.co.za Balloons Foil, shaped helium balloons with a variety of characters. From R35− R120. Contact: 074 229 1145 or visit balloonemporium.co.za B-Day Parties Supplies themed party décor from 180 themes. They mail nationwide. Party packs from R7,50− R17,50; party packages from R1 625.

Contact Linda: 021 853 1727, linda@ bdayparties.co.za or visit bdayparties.co.za Bring on the Party Upbeat party hiring and booking service specialising in all aspects of children’s birthday parties from the furniture and linen to water slides, candyfloss machines, catering and face painters. Prices vary. Contact Nicky: 072 256 7834 or visit bringontheparty.co.za Bubble Ball Entertainment The balls and pools used are made of durable materials and on-site supervision is provided with every event booked. Small unit (7mx7m pond with four bubble balls) R3 000 for four hours; large unit (10mx10m pond with eight bubble balls) R4 500 for four hours. Contact Belinda: 083 201 1853, bubbleball@yebo. co.za or visit bubbleball.co.za Buddies Playgyms Selling wooden playground equipment including jungle gyms and obstacle courses. Contact: 011 864 4856, 072 269 8484 or visit buddiesplaygyms.co.za Bumpy Jumpy Castles Rents out themed castles. They also stock floating balloons, children’s and adult’s chairs and tables and a bubble machine. Jumping castle hire from R450−R700, bubble machine R350, children’s table R40 and children’s

chairs R6. Contact: 082 CASTLES (2278537), fun@bumpyjumpycastles.co.za or visit bumpyjumpycastles.co.za Cakes and Castles Offers jumping castles, water slides, birthday cakes, children’s table and chairs, décor with linen, balloons and party packs. Cakes from R300, castles from R280. Contact: 083 450 2525, tessa@cakesandcastles. co.za or visit cakesandcastles.co.za Chameleon Party Packs Fun gift alternatives to sweet-filled party packs.

Contact Kirsten: 011 883 6617, 072 249 8790 or michelle@vhlaw.co.za Craft Blanche For accessories and embellishments required for invitations, making cards, scrapbooking, crafts and DIY kits for all themed parties or events.

From R8. Contact: 021 554 2290, 083 383 2049, info@craftblanche.co.za or visit craftblanche.co.za Crazy Plastics and Sweets Supplies tubs filled with a wide variety of sweets.

Assorted pre-packed party buckets and children’s deluxe party gift bags also available. Prices vary. Contact Monique: 072 238 8069 Crazy Water Balls Rents out waterballs and zorb balls. From R300 per hour.

Contact Shauny: 082 449 4197, shauny@crazywaterballs.co.za or visit crazywaterballs.co.za CrystalFusion FairyWear Stocks handmade, colourful fairy gowns with detailed fairy wings, headbands, tiaras and fairy wands. From R350. Contact Ewan or Cara: 082 578 6767, ewan@crystalfusion. co.za or visit crystalfusion.co.za Dino-Mite Jumpers Rents out a range of jumping castles and a waterslide. From R270−R420, including delivery, setup and collection. Contact: 082 449 5599, dino-mite@iburst.co.za or visit dinomitejumpers.co.za Dream Parties They have several party packages available, which include themed cakes, novelty gifts, cupcakes, party packs, jumping castles, venue

decorations and photo boards. Contact: 011 665 4208 or visit dreamparties.co.za Enchanted Creations Party hire and décor shop with goods such as invitations, personalised banners, jumping castles, themed décor, accessories, themed bags, 3D cakes and more.

Contact Michelle: 084 567 5220, info@ enchantedcreations.co.za or visit enchantedcreations.co.za ExtruWood They sell recycled plastic jungle gyms. Contact: 011 617 9200 or visit extruwood.co.za Fabulous Party Supplies party décor, accessories and party packs. They do catering, deliver and setup. They specialise in themed parties with a wide range of gifts and toys. From R1 350−R2 850.

Delivery R150−R300. Contact Malie: 012 667 3081, info@fabulousparty.co.za or visit fabulousparty.co.za Flower Spot Sandton stockists of all party-related accessories and décor such as serviettes, candles, party hats, blowouts, themed paper plates, and helium and folio balloons. Contact: 011 804 5143 or visit flowerspot.co.za Function Fotos & Design Photographer and party stationery designer. Packages start from R500. Contact Tracy: 083 379 5545, tlwdesigns@mtnloaded.co.za or visit function-fotos.com Fun in the Sun Castle Hire Rents out jumping castles such as a dinosaur, pirate ship and standard castles. They also have a slip-n-slide and a gladiator slide for hire.

From R300. Contact Brigitte or Mike: 011 678 8149 or 084 619 8944/9 Funky Monkey Castles Offers jumping castles to hire for children’s parties. They deliver to and collect from the northern suburbs. Table and chairs also available.

From R350−R500. Contact: 082 551 3568, info@funkymonkeycastles.co.za or visit funkymonkeycastles.co.za Fun O’ Rama Hires out jumping castles such as a soccer ball, clown castle as well as slip-n-slides and a variety of magazine joburg

photographs: shutterstock.com, ILLUStrationS: shutterstock.com, nikki-leigh piper

Having a party? Here’s who to call. Compiled by COLLEEN GOOSEN and MARINA ZIETSMAN

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inflatables. Cost varies. Contact Estelle: 011 826 5275/8, 083 457 7749, info@ funorama.co.za or visit funorama.co.za Gelli Baff Completely safe powder that turns ordinary water into colourful goo.

Use it in children’s pools or even in a small bowl or sink. Available in a variety of colours. Contact Wendy: 086 111 2006, wendy.ekman@altiustrading.com or visit gellibaff.co.za Gladiator Inflatables Hires out a large range of inflatable jumping castles. From R350. Contact Roodepoort: 011 672 4861, Randburg: 011 781 5874, rentals@ gladiatorinflatables.co.za, randburg@ gladiatorinflatables.co.za or visit gladiatorinflatables.co.za Goodie Two Shoes Offers goodie boxes containing stickers, crayons, puzzles, clay fun and toys. They also have a no-sweet party pack alternative. Different sizes and themes are available. Delivery countrywide. From R35. Contact Memre: 082 466 3182, memre@goodietwoshoes. co.za or visit goodietwoshoes.co.za Hedgehog Hollow Children’s dress-up clothing, party accessories and toys.

Contact Warren or Shirley: 011 463 8692/3, info@hedgehoglane.co.za or visit hedgehoglane.co.za iJump Kids Entertainment Provides a children’s party and event planning service, with jumping castles, water slides and party accessories. Themed parties from R850 for 12 children and less, thereafter R70 per child. Castles and slides from R450. Contact: 0861 444 332, 073 704 1810, 0861 444 332, 073 704 1810, info@ ijumpkids.co.za or visit ijumpkids.co.za Indoor and Outdoor Play Centres Sells soft-play systems, jungle gyms, toddler play systems and educational products.

Cost varies. Contact Santie: 079 887 8322, info@iopc.co.za or visit iopc.co.za In-zane Kreeyations Party Hire & Eventz Book jumping castles, water slides, party supplies, popcorn machines and children’s tables and chairs online.

They deliver, set up and collect in the Johannesburg area. They also do event coordination. From R450−R750 including delivery, setup and collection.

Contact: 082 418 0155, 082 449 4197, jumping@inzane.co.za, castles@in-zane. co.za or visit in-zane.co.za Its Mine Labels Offers a wide range of personalised magnetic invitations, labels, party-pack stickers, tattoos, and personalised ribbon and wrapping paper.

They have an in-house design team to assist with any special requirements. They are based in Johannesburg but mail to any destination worldwide. Prices vary. Contact: 011 646 3640 or visit itsmine.co.za Jeremy Kusner Productions Large suppliers of party and event entertainment services and rentals. From jumping castles, carousels, mini trains, toddler play equipment, candyfloss and popcorn to ponies, clowns and soft serve ice cream. Disco and professional sound and lighting equipment also available. Cost varies. Contact: 0861 112 876 or visit jkproductions.co.za

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Jump Junction Jumping castles for hire such as a jungle jumper, princess castle, fairy island and more. They also rent out children’s tables and chairs. From R320−R430, including delivery, setup and collection. Contact Brenda: 072 298 4024, brenda@jumpjunction.co.za or visit jumpjunction.co.za Just Labels Supplies colourful personalised gift stickers for children’s birthday presents. Choose your own wording and pictures on their website.

9cmx9cm stickers R12 for six, including postage. Contact: 031 266 1738, sales@ justlabels.co.za or visit justlabels.co.za Kate’s Party Rentals Rents out tables and chairs, marquees, catering equipment, heating equipment, umbrellas, crockery and cutlery, including tea sets for children, as well as children’s furniture, jumping castles, braais and more. Prices vary.

Contact: 011 886 2336, kpr1@telkomsa.net or visit katespartyrentals.co.za Kids Like Us Piñata Factory Offers custom-made piñatas and face painting.

Piñatas from R180–R300; face painters from R450 per hour for about 15 faces.

Contact Cassandra: 072 228 0563, cassandra@kidslikeuspinatas.com or visit kidslikeuspinatas.com Kids Party Stuff Organises everything for the birthday party, from the food to the fun. Basic parties start at R2 000. Contact Carol: 083 409 8003, info@kidspartystuff. co.za or visit kidspartystuff.co.za La Koufeto Bonbonnieres Makes useful party packs. Gifts range from R20 and up.

Contact: 011 455 3995 Lena Studio She’ll take care of all your photographic needs for the party and she also does canvas and acrylic portraits.

Three-hour party shoot, including disc with 100 images and 24 6x8-inch printed photos R1 200. Contact Lena: 011 485 3149, 083 302 4567 or lenastudio@pop.co.za Little Heroes Theme Parties Specialists in equipment hire, party décor, jumping castles, party packs, birthday cakes, entertainers, party food for adults and children, and party planning. They set up the party from start to finish or you can just hire the equipment. Themed party set up from R450. Contact Vera: 083 441 5058, vera@littleheroparties.co.za or visit littleheroparties.co.za Little Occasions Offers a collection of designer partyware, which includes baking cups, balloons, napkins banners, gift tags, gift bags, candles, cups, goodie bags, invitations, wrapping paper, table runners, cards, streamers and themed accessories. Contact: 011 071 7436, info@littleoccasions.co.za or visit littleoccasions.co.za Loadsafun Buy a huge variety of quality children’s costumes, accessories, capes, fairy goodies, tutus and other dress-up products. Countrywide. Contact Carol: 072 703 3006, info@loadsafun.co.za or visit loadsafun.co.za Love Letters Online store that sells locally produced, modern and creative personalised stationery as well as placemats, personalised gifts and magazine joburg

organisers. Contact: 083 327 5363, lovelettersstationery@gmail.com or visit lovelettersstationery.co.za Macaroon Offers personalised, online stationery, which can be designed with your personal photographs to create invitations and more. Also gift stickers.

From R200. Contact: 074 581 1731, taryn@ macaroon.co.za or visit macaroon.co.za Metallica Sells jungle gyms. From R950– R14 000. Contact: 011 708 1647, 082 953 1060, 082 416 3364, metalica@mweb. co.za or visit metallicasteel.co.za Money Box Party Packs Offers novel party packs, which are a gift in themselves, or for the party child to take home. The range includes blank money boxes, set design money boxes and DIY colouring-in money box packs. Prices range from R8. Contact Tracy: 082 422 7872 or visit jorsam.co.za My Memory Book Keep your child’s birthday memories in this photo book.

R300 for 16 A4 pages or R160 for 16 A5 pages. Contact Nathalie: 072 437 0924 or demoraes@global.co.za Nabila Mahomed Photography Birthday party photography from R800 depending on the package you require. Contact Nabila: 082 553 7772, nabilamahomed@ gmail.com or visit nmphotography.co.za Parties4Africa An online shop with a broad selection of party products. Delivery is overnight and nationwide. Contact Cheryl or Penny: 035 772 6592, 083 635 5353, 084 406 6313, info@parties4africa. co.za or visit parties4africa.co.za Party Katz Douglasdale party shop that specialises in balloon décor and balloon deliveries, costumes, party packs and entertainment. Cost varies. Contact: 011 704 0024 or partykatz@mweb.co.za Partynet.co.za Sells party accessories online, including themed décor, balloons and partyware. Place your order online and they deliver nationwide. Contact: 011 803 7970, 087 808 8998, questions@ partynet.co.za or visit partynet.co.za PartyPix Photographs birthday parties.

R550 per hour includes post-production of photographs (black and white and sepia conversions) and a CD with the photos.

Contact: 082 428 4802, partypixsa@gmail. co.za or visit party-pix.co.za Party Shop SA One-stop party shop in Randburg. Supplies all party accessories such as helium-filled balloons, party themes, wigs, costumes, party accessories, banners, fancy hats and more. Prices vary. Contact: 011 793 4238, sales@partyshopsa.co.za, 1stoppartyshoprandburg@telkomsa.net or visit partyshopsa.co.za Photoboothinc Hires out photo booths.

Guests press a button and the booth automatically takes a 2x4-inch highquality digital photo that prints in seconds. From R1 750. Contact Rob: 083 377 9449, rob@photoboothinc.co.za or visit photoboothinc.co.za Piñata Africa Sells piñatas in any shape, size or colour, as well as balloon art décor. From R250, including 200 sweets, a decorated stick and R50 postage.

Contact Marianne: 082 457 2276 magazine joburg

Pirates and Princesses Tailor-made costumes for fancy-dress parties. They need at least two weeks to make the costume. Contact Val: 082 716 9732, val@piratesandprincesses.co.za or visit piratesandprincesses.co.za Polly Potter’s Toy Store Sells party gifts and toys. From R30. Contact: 011 788 6811, pollypotter@telkomsa.net or visit pollypotterstoystore.co.za Puzzle Worx Go online to create a personalised puzzle with a photo of your child and use it as an invitation. From R18,50. Contact Jody: 083 275 6567, info@ puzzleworx.co.za or visit puzzleworx.co.za Sallys Party Services Offers jumping castles, clowns, face painters, magicians, puppeteers, animals, games and crafts, train and carousel rides, cakes and party bags. East Rand. Cost varies. Contact Sally: 011 974 9520 or visit sallys.co.za Sensation Lab Manufacture and hire of unique structures, furniture and ambient accessories such as dance floors, marquees, candle lit walkways, fairy and disco lights. Contact: 011 023 5940/45, info@sensationlab.co.za or visit sensationlab.co.za Sir Bouncealot Jumping Castles Rents out jumping castles with various themes as well as water slides. Tables and chairs available. From R250 on a weekday to R350 on a weekend with special prices for complete weekend bookings.

Contact: 011 462 8520, 083 353 5010, sirbouncealot@telkomsa.net or visit sirbouncealot.co.za Smith & Olive This toy shop in Morningside Shopping Centre offers imported gifts and a wide variety of party-pack treats. Cost varies. Contact: 087 940 3817 Spoilt for Choice An online gift shop for tower hampers, which can be customised to your specifications. Contact: 011 783 0845, gifts@spoiltforchoice.co.za or visit spoiltforchoice.co.za Star Castles Supplies fun inflatable play centres for all ages as well as themed birthday cakes. Cost varies. Contact: 011 679 5699, 082 372 9177, sales@ starcastles.co.za or visit starcastles.co.za Strike A Pose Photography Photography from R600–R1 200 depending on the time spent and package required.

Contact Dee-Ann: 082 412 9650 or visit strikeaposephotography.co.za Studio C Children’s photographer for birthday parties. From R650. Contact Cheryl: 083 601 5050, cheryl@studiocheryl. co.za or visit studiocheryl.co.za Sunrise Sweets Specialists in the supply of local and imported sweets and chocolates. Also stocks a wide selection of party supplies and accessories.

Contact: 011 475 8366 The Fairy Factory Offers fairy and pamper parties; indoors or outdoors.

They arrange costumes, fairy décor, cakes, party packs and creative workshops. They also do mini spa treatments. Gift packs available. Fairy and pamper parties from R1 000.

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The Paper Kite Offers a selection of colourful and hand-made paper, which is used for invitations and party boxes.

Contact: 082 767 1602 or lindajane@ thepaperkite.co.za Tinkle-pea Specialises in gifts and party favours. Nationwide delivery. Contact Jenny: 082 804 5678, jenny@tinklepea. co.za or visit tinklepea.co.za Toddlers Warehouse Sells wooden educational toys for boys, girls and babies. Shipping is nationwide.

Kempton Park and Benoni. Contact Tania: 011 979 1676, 072 398 8053, tania@toddlerswarehouse.co.za or visit toddlerswarehouse.co.za Whizzbang Online store with a large selection of themed party accessories.

Contact: 011 465 7199, 083 242 9224, shelley@whizzbang.co.za or visit whizzbang.co.za Write-Stuff Stationery Shop Sells helium balloons, gift wrap and party accessories.

Contact Gail: 011 481 3333 or writestuff@mweb.co.za

Animal parties Aragon Stables Pony parties Offers safe reliable ponies for young children. They will plan games and treasure hunts for the party. Situated in Muldersdrift. Contact Jenny: 082 666

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3728, jenny@aragonstables.co.za or visit aragonstables.co.za Crazykidz Farmyard A venue that provides a full party-planning service.

Prices range from R1 050 for venue hire plus Teddy Bear’s Picnic costs R85 per child and Farmyard costs R100 each.

Theme parties include décor and party packs. Contact Jana: 082 389 9153, info@crazykidzfarmyard.co.za or visit crazykidzfarmyard.co.za Drakes Party Farmyard Offers staff who assist with pony rides, water slides and feeding of the farm animals. Other activities include a foefie slide and trampoline.

Parents can relax under thatched lapas.

Parties from R2 200 also include tea/coffee for parents, juice for the children, exclusive use of the venue, crockery and cutlery.

Contact: 072 622 1080, info@drakes.co.za or visit drakes.co.za Farmyard Frendz There are trampolines, jumping castles, jungle gyms, swings, pony rides, a children’s train, three lapas with chairs and tables for children and adults. They have a touch-and-feel farm with a rare emu, geese, chickens, bunnies, cows, pigs, sheep, ponies and horses. Various catering options. Contact: 083 307 0790, farmyardfrendz@hotmail. com or visit farmyardfrendz.co.za Farmyard Friends Ponies for children’s parties. Two ponies can be rented for

90 minutes. R950, which covers the first 40km of travel. Contact: 082 673 6441 or farmyardfriends@vodamail.co.za Horse Haven Pony party venue where children can enjoy activities such as painting horse shoes, making carrot cakes, treasure hunts and more. They have a large playground area and offer pony rides or gymkhana games for the older children. They have two party options from R1 200 for 25 children.

Contact: 083 229 3478, 072 014 9090 or visit horsehaven.co.za Jungle Tots Farmyard Farm venue in Kyalami with ponies, cows, dogs and sheep. Children can feed the animals and enjoy pony rides. Tea and cake for parents. Contact Jenny: 083 377 7571 or jenco@ibi.co.za Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary Has a tea garden and play area with jungle gym. Entertainment includes animal petting. Small lapa R350; big lapa R700 for the day. Contact Marian: 011 315 7307, info@lorypark.co.za or visit lorypark.co.za Mac’s Party Farmyard Exclusive-use venue in Johannesburg south with an indoor hall, picnic and braai facilities, a jungle gym, a jumping castle, farm animals and more. Contact: 011 948 8752, 082 657 6817, info@duosapphire. co.za, collette@duosapphire.co.za or visit duosapphire.co.za

National Zoological Gardens of SA Take the party to the Pretoria Zoo and set up on the lawn. Order tailor-made children’s party packs that include animal masks, pictures to colour in, sweets and drinks. Lion or hippo theme cakes available. No balloons or noisy toys permitted. Contact Tamsen: 012 326 7092, tamsen@nzg.ac.za or visit nzg.ac.za Old MacDonald’s Party Farm One of five venues on a three-hectare piece of land, with an animal farm and pony rides.

Each venue has a trampoline, jungle gym, sandpit, swings and a jumping castle.

R1 500 for venue hire includes pony rides, tea, coffee, cold drink, balloons, tables, chairs and crockery. Contact Catherine: 082 339 3927, oldmacd@hotmail.com or visit oldmacdonald.co.za Putto Ponies Bring ponies to parties dressed in your theme colours. A groom joins the ponies to lead them for fun rides for the children. Cost varies. Contact Kim: 011 659 8010, 082 550 4849 or kim@ createcrete.co.za Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve Offers children’s parties in a fully-equipped play area with jumping castles, jungle gyms, trampolines, swing sets and water slides (on request). Price packages are tailormade. Contact: 011 957 0106, trs@iafrica. com or visit rhinolion.co.za

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SA Lion Park Allows children to get back to nature in a safe, secure environment.

Children can play with lion cubs, feed the tame resident giraffe and go on a game drive through the main park. Lanseria.

Contact: 011 691 9905, info@lionpark. com or visit lionpark.com Sun Valley Pony Parties Offers safe pony parties in a friendly environment at their Kyalami stables. The cost includes party venue hire with play equipment, pony rides and games, a pony activity, tables, chairs and tea or coffee. R1 400. Contact: 082 571 0309, info@sunvalleystables. co.za or visit sunvalleystables.co.za The Johannesburg Zoo Birthday party options include ferry, moonlight, sunset and behind-the-scenes tours. Catering and party packs provided by on-site restaurant Café Fino. Suitable for all ages, except the behind-the-scenes tour, which is best for children older than 7 years.

All tours to be booked and paid for two weeks in advance. Contact: 011 646 2000 or visit jhbzoo.org.za Wild and Earthly This mobile farmyard provides a fun, interactive experience for children to get up close and personal with a range of popular animals. Five animal species for one hour R650. Also pony rides at R650. Contact Lisa: 084 550 0120, lisa@wildandearthly.co.za or visit wildandearthly.co.za

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Art and craft parties ArteeParteez Art and crafts parties with themes ranging from treasure box decorating, glass painting, sand art, beading, scrapbooking, T-shirt painting and Lego parties. They also do spa parties for girls, marimba parties and offer a recording studio for older children. Craft parties from R800, recording studio from R1 600 for up to 12 children, Lego parties from R700, spa and marimba parties from R1 000. Contact Kirsty: 084 207 0180, kirsty@arteeparteez.co.za or visit arteeparteez.co.za Artjamming Painting parties with party packs; canvas and huge variety of nontoxic paints provided. Parties of 10 or more receive a discount. From R95.

Contact Blubird Shopping Centre: 011 586 0599 or Lonehill Shopping Centre: 011 465 5778 or visit artjamming.co.za Buddy Bear Choose the animal or bear from the varied selection, then stuff it, add a heart and make a wish. Give it a voice. Weigh and measure to check if it is healthy, dress it, then take it home.

For stockist in Gauteng, contact Leanne: 031 764 2318, 031 764 2383, leanne@ buddybear.co.za or visit buddybear.co.za Cindy’s…“A little bit of this and that” Art and crafts parties for children.

Activities include painting, beading, baking, puppet shows and face painting.

From R70. Contact: 011 802 1497, 083 408 7150 or cindy@homealoan.co.za Color Café A ceramic-painting studio and coffee shop in Hyde Park where children can choose a piece of raw pottery to paint or mosaic. They can select colours and accessories, and design with the help of a qualified staff member. Paint, glazing and all accessories used are included in the price of the pottery. A 10 percent discount is available for groups of 10 or more. Cost varies and catering is charged for separately. Contact Samantha: 011 341 0734, 082 906 5557, colorcafe@ vodamail.co.za or visit colorcafe.co.za Crafty Corner Entertains with a variety of age- and gender-appropriate children’s party crafts, according to a theme, in the Linden area. Party-pack craft kits range from R15–R45. Full party planning R75 per child for minimum 10 children.

Contact Winnie: 011 782 0351, 082 780 3673, winnie@craftycorner.co.za or visit craftycorner.co.za I Love Sand Art Sand art parties. They also host and rent out services for sandart parties. They sell party favours and gift packs. Hosted parties R300, rentals R150 and R10 per card. Gift packs R60.

Contact Melanie or Caroline: 011 022

7525, 083 278 0101, parties@ilovesandart. co.za or visit ilovesandart.co.za Kidz Only Shop for gifts and educational toys. They deliver nationwide. You can order everything online. Cost varies. For more info: visit kidzonly.co.za Kula Kids Art and craft parties for children where they can paint and decorate fridge magnets, trinket boxes, photo frames and more. Themes include dinosaurs, fairies, underwater creatures and wildlife. They can also arrange a craft to match your party theme. Finished crafts can be kept. From R25 to R40 per child. Contact Leanne: 083 293 7208 or leanne@kulakids.co.za Moyo at Zoo Lake Two-hour interactive African-themed parties with dancing and games, storytelling, face painting and food.

The parties include an art activity such as making African instruments, decorating a pot plant, wire art and more. Parents can dine while the children are entertained and supervised. For children three to 12 years old. Cost varies. Contact: 011 646 0058, kabele@moyo.co.za or visit moyo.com PolkaDot Art Studio Hosts parties, including baking and cupcake decorating, art in the park, sparkle spa parties and art and crafts. Catering is optional. Parties can be held at their venue or at your home.

Cost varies. Contact: 011 447 9892 or visit polkadotartstudio.co.za

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Pop Art Parties Art and crafts parties at a venue of your choice. Activities include designing T-shirts, working with wood, mosaic, decoupage and more. Crafts from R70−R110 per child. Contact Erin: 084 628 0337, info@popartparties.co.za or visit popartparties.co.za Pottery Junxion Art studio where children choose and paint or mosaic their own pottery. Cost depends on craft. Contact: 011 453 2721, paint@potteryjunxion.co.za or visit potteryjunxion.co.za Scrapbook Den Children can make cards or do scrapbooking. Catering options can be discussed. Contact: 011 453 2724 or 082 552 4332 Scrapbooking on the Move Scrapbooking parties for children. From R130–R250 per person. Contact Dorian: 083 409 7434, dorian@gam.co.za or visit scrapbookingonthemove@groups. facebook.com Seedpod Studio Creative parties for children six years and older. Options available are sewing and beading a felt cupcake, painting a canvas, decorating with beads and ceramic inserts, making a pin bracelet and more. Prices on request. Contact: 011 465 0375 or info@ seedpodstudio.co.za Smudge A children’s art and play centre that offers an exclusive, indoor party venue. Activities include a dress-up room, play area and a music room. The dressup room has tons of Disney costumes as well as a large vintage section for older children. The music room includes giant drums, chimes and xylophones. There is a book lounge and toys for babies and toddlers as well as a coffee shop. Qualified artists supervise art activities. Parties range from R150 per child including a two-hour visit and a choice of art activity. Contact: 011 501 0234, sandra@smudgeart.co.za or visit smudgeart.co.za The Studio at Hedgehog Lane Offers a host of craft activities such as ceramic painting, mosaic work, painting and decorating a wooden pencil case, and sand art. Themed activities include make and decorate a crown, wand or mad hatter’s hat, or make a teddy bear card. Contact Warren or Shirley: 011 463 5692, info@hedgehoglane.co.za or visit hedgehoglane.co.za

Cakes and catering AllerGenius Provides a one-stop allergy-free party service. They do start-to-finish parties for all ages and all dietary needs. Contact: 083 564 6746 Annica’s Cakes Customised cakes for every occasion and children’s cupcake decorating parties. Cake designs and party ideas are available on their website. Cost varies. Contact: 011 326 1526, annicas@mweb.co.za or visit annicascakes.co.za Boost Juice Bars Offers 98 percent fatfree smoothies, juices and crushes and a range of healthy snacks. They have soft toys, badges, stickers and toys for

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the party packs. From R20 per smoothie.

Contact: 011 879 1979, aloysius. magerman@boostjuice.co.za or visit boostjuice.co.za Cakes 4 Kiddies For eggless cakes in chocolate, chilli chocolate, vanilla and granadilla sponge as well as eggless vanilla and chocolate cupcakes. Carob is substituted for chocolate on request.

Themed 3D cakes also available. From R300. Contact Kamini: 011 791 3205, 082 550 9932, kami73@iburst.co.za or visit cakes4kiddies.co.za Cake Studio Offers a variety of character cakes in 3D and 2D for children of all ages. Contact: 012 997 4530, 082 331 9237, sugarshop@telkomsa.net or visit cakestudio.co.za Chantal’s Cakes & Catering Specialists in birthday, novelty and high-tea cakes, cupcakes, assorted pastries and catering.

Prices depend on menu choice and number of servings required. Contact Chantal: 011 764 6309, 076 849 4042, chantalscakes@vodamail.co.za or visit chantalscakescatering.yolasite.com Chapati Catering Fresh, homemade Indian sandwich and snack platters for six to eight people. From R220–R280.

Contact Baiju: 083 307 0505 or chapati. catering@gmail.com Chlo Lo Catering Specialists in custommade cupcakes, cakes, party catering and gingerbread decorating. Based in River Club, near Sandton. Contact Robyn: 072 659 8919 or robynwilson1@gmail.com Coffeespoonz & Afternoons Suppliers of frozen muffin batter as well as crumpet, waffle and pancake batter. You can also order savoury items, such as quiches, pies and party-platter goodies. Cost varies. Contact Gina: 011 849 4273, coffeespoonz@telkomsa.net or visit muffin-batter.co.za Delite Foods Specialists in sugar-free, low-fat foods such as jellies, biscuits, chocolate drinks, sweets and more. Also perfect for diabetics and hyperactive children. Delivery nationwide. Order online. Contact Fran: 021 702 0721/2 or info@delitefoods.co.za Di’s Cakes Cakes baked in any character or object of your choice. She also offers cupcakes, biscuits and party packs.

From R350. Contact: 083 651 4908 or dmarques@iburst.co.za DLish Services range from specialised novelty cakes to party and function catering. Cakes from R350, party packs from R30, cupcakes from R8, platters from R320. Contact Graeme: 082 378 5677, graeme@dlish.co.za or visit dlish.co.za Dream Cakes Specialists in 3D and novelty cakes. From R280−R350. Contact Benita: 082 895 8820 or visit dreamcakes.co.za Fabulous Cakes Custom-designed and reasonably priced cakes. They offer 3D and 2D cakes as well as picture cakes, cake toppers and cupcakes. Contact: 084 593 2996 or visit fabcakes.co.za Fairy Godmother of Baking Specialists in cupcakes, themed cakes, 3D cakes, moulded cakes and other baking goodies.

Contact Jennifer: 072 787 3759

Funky Cupcakes For cakes and cupcakes in all designs and for themed parties. Contact Monique: 082 815 7430, bakery@funkycupcakes.co.za or visit funkycupcakes.co.za Gill’s Cakes Suppliers of 3D cakes, cupcakes, biscuits and petit fours. They can incorporate your ideas into the cake of your choice. Prices vary. Contact Gillian: 082 926 3363, gillian@gillscakes. co.za or visit gillscakes.co.za Hillary’s Bakery and Coffee Bar Choose from a range of plastic icing cakes to butter icing cakes, shaped cakes, figurines and more. Contact Warren or Shirley: 011 463 8692, info@hedgehoglane.co.za or visit hedgehoglane.co.za Inkredible Products Supplies edible paper and equipment to do your own edible printing. They also do in-house printing of licensed characters for which they have the necessary copyright. From R42,75 per A4 sheet for a minimum order of 15 sheets. Contact Elsabe: 078 618 1833, elsabe@inkredible.co.za or visit inkredible.co.za Just Chocolate Specialises in chocolate smash cakes and novelty chocolates.

From R580. Contact Nicky: 082 331 8605 or slotar@tiscali.co.za Kadies Bakery Supplies Stocks over 2 500 lines associated with baking and cake decorating. Fourways. Prices vary.

Contact: 011 465 5572, enquiries@kadies. co.za or visit kadies.co.za Kauai Offers an extended catering menu, which includes smoothies, juices, canapés, and wrap platters. Visit their website for prices. Contact Nuraan at head office: 021 552 0222, catering@ kauai.co.za or visit kauai.co.za Made by Monica Creates birthday cakes (of all sizes) and cupcakes. A minimum of one week’s notice is required on all orders. Prices range from R120 per dozen for cupcakes and birthday cakes start from R350. Catering quoted per order. Contact Monica: 083 297 7977, monica@madebymonica.co.za or visit madebymonica.co.za Morish Cupcakes Boutique From novelty to traditional cupcakes. Prices range from R12 per cupcake depending on decoration choice. Contact Gawie: 071 510 7019, morish@vodamail.co.za or visit morish.co.za Petits Fours Deli and Décor Provides high teas for girls of all ages, specialised cakes and birthday party platters. They also do catering and in-house functions.

Prices vary. Contact: 011 782 1778, petitsfoursdeli@gmail.com or visit petitsfours.co.za Pick n Pay Entertaining Buy a range of party platters in-store or online. Hot and cold snacks on disposable platters include cold meats, sandwiches, subs, salads, cheeses and themed cakes.

Delivery fee R50. Browse the catalogue online or in-store. Orders must be placed before 10am and at least two days in advance. Contact: 011 574 4638 or visit picknpayentertaining.co.za

Picture Perfect Cakes Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions, as well as party packs, platters and catering services. Cupcakes from R7,50, cakes from R240. Contact Genevieve: 011 792 6169, 076 821 5628, picturepcakes@gmail.com or visit pictureperfectcakes.co.za The Baker Bug Supplies themed 3D cupcakes as well as themed party packs and treats. Price list on request via email.

Contact: 072 373 6595 or thebakerbug@ gmail.com The Baker’s Warehouse Sells all baking decorations, accessories and ingredients for birthday bakes. Cost varies. Contact: 011 706 5010 or apadop@icon.co.za The Bread Basket Customised cakes and platters for birthdays. Johannesburg and Pretoria. For more info: visit breadbasket.co.za Top Cakes Offers character cakes, picture transfer cakes, cupcakes and party platters. Randburg. Contact Niva: 076 550 899, enquiries@topcakes.co.za or visit topcakes.co.za Zoe Cakes for Fun Provides freshly baked designer cakes and cupcakes. Outlets nationwide. Contact: 011 706 7332, 073 046 8460, info@zoecakesforfun.co.za or visit zoecakesforfun.co.za

Cooking parties Fun Foodies Parties The focus is on helping children build a good relationship with food. Children also have fun dressing up as chefs and cooking up a storm.

From R80−R240 per child and packages can be personalised. Contact: 082 214 5271, funfoodies@mweb.co.za or visit funfoodies.co.za Karma Kooking Klub for Kids Cooking parties for children. R200 per child includes juice, all ingredients, food preparation at their venue and a chef’s hat. Contact Shyrose: 083 751 6975 or visit karmakorporate.co.za Kiddies Chef Combines a party with an educational experience. Children make their own food, based on a country as a theme, and dress up accordingly. From R50 per person, including gift bag. Contact: 011 492 3866, 082 782 9880, yumz@chef. net or visit kiddieschef.co.za Little Cooks Club Cooking birthday parties for children 2−14 years. Venues nationwide. From R150 for children 2−7 years and R190 for children 8−14 years. Contact Christine: 083 556 3434, christine@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za Noogie Cookie Dough Parties They offer a complete make, bake and take party experience with Noogie Cookie Dough. R1 100 for a maximum of 35 children for two hours. Contact Dean: 083 445 4556, adventures@noogieville. co.za or visit noogieville.co.za The Growing Gourmet They organise cooking parties for children 3–15 years.

Randburg. Contact: 071 510 7019 or ggstudio@vodamail.co.za magazine joburg

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The Taste Bud Arranges cooking parties for children of all ages. They also do party catering and party packs. Party packages from R140–R200 per child.

Different packages available to suit all ages. Contact Nicola: 082 331 9987, nicola@tastebudstudio.co.za or visit tastebudstudio.co.za Tots n Pots Tailor-made baking parties for children. You can choose from a menu of themes and recipes. Various packages are available, including party packs, hats, aprons, ingredients, crafts and all equipment for baking. Various branches in Gauteng. For more info: visit totsnpots.com

Educational parties Creepy Crawly and Science Parties Entertainment involves live scorpions, Madagascan hissing cockroaches, various spiders, and a snake as a final surprise. During the show they share facts about these creatures. Children can also touch the snake. The show is aimed at children from four to 12 years old. They also do a science show. Children can do three experiments. You can also combine the shows. Creepy crawly option R750, science option R850 for 15 children and R40 per extra child. Both shows

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R1 150 for 15 children and R40 per extra child. Transport: R50 for areas outside northwest Johannesburg.

Contact Alison: 073 260 5371 or alimorgan@webmail.co.za Experilab Pretoria Science-themed birthday parties at their venue where children perform science experiments that they take home. They stock activity packs for your own science party at home. R60 per child (minimum groups of 10); activity packs from R30 each. Contact: 012 361 1134 or info@experilab.co.za ScubaParties.com The crew can come to you or you can go to their venue in Chartwell. Optional extras include underwater footage, hand-made invites, ice-cream cakes and catering. From R2 500 to R3 000 for 10 children. Winter packages apply to parties booked from March to August. Contact Toni: 074 413 9994, info@scubaparties.com or visit scubaparties.com Sci-Bono Discovery Centre Parties include a guided tour of the centre, a science show, a dedicated party coordinator, a free science gift for the birthday child, two hours in the birthday party venue and free entrance to the centre for all party guests (maximum 50 people). Parties for children 3–12 years old. For children aged 8–12 years,

the guided tour can be substituted for a treasure hunt. R650–R850.

Contact Refilwe: 011 639 8400 or refilwep@sci-bono.co.za Strange Blue Duck Novel stop-frame animation parties (aniparties). Children make their own animated films (such as Wallace and Gromit) using Plasticine, plastic insects and various other objects. Each child receives a CD of all the completed clips, a certificate as well as additional information on animation techniques and how to make animated films at home. Suitable for children from age 9. From R3 000 for a two- to three-hour party. Contact Richard: 082 815 3918, richard@ strangeblueduck.co.za or visit strangeblueduck.co.za The Planetarium Space travel shows on Saturday mornings where you bring your own eats and enjoy a picnic outside or hot dogs and coffee. Suitable for children 5–8 years. Entry fee R20 per child; party pack with 10-minute spacetravel music CD R14. Contact: 011 717 1390, planet@planetarium.co.za or visit planetarium.co.za

Entertainers AfrodizzyActs Entertainment agency that provides performers

such as human statues, giant clowns, face painters, magicians, beat boxers and jugglers. You can also hire a photo booth. R500–R5 000. Contact: 082 087 5748, afrodizzy@hotmail.com or visit afrodizzyacts.co.za Alwyn’s Funtainment A ventriloquist, magician and balloon artist as entertainer.

R800 per hour. Contact: 083 354 8726 or 078 194 2454 Andy’s Action Parties Action-filled activities and entertainment for children’s birthday parties. Themes range from army and Survivor to space explorers and Fear Factor. From R1 350. Contact Gareth: 082 381 1051, gareth@aaparty.co.za or visit aaparty.co.za Balloony Face painters and balloon artists that dress up as clowns, fairies and other characters to fit in with your theme.

Cost varies. Contact: 071 105 2893, balloony@balloony.edanct.co.za or visit balloony.edanct.co.za Beautiful Creatures Entertain and educate children with activities and dancing. Imvubu the Happiest Hippo also makes an appearance and teaches them his special dance. They have a range of interactive adventure options, gift packets and invites. Prices vary.

Contact: 011 697 2911, 082 339 4733, parties@beautifulcreatures.co.za or visit beautifulcreatures.co.za

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Blue Flame Events and Branding Specialists Offers balloon modellers and face painters, and rents out jumping castles. Email for a quote. Contact: 021 856 2774, 072 599 2288, info@bflame. co.za or visit bflame.co.za Body and Beauty Clinic Pamper parties at your home for six to 30 girls. The party includes a mini manicure, mini pedicure and mini facial. They also do glitter makeup and girls get to take a pamper pack home. R120 per child. Contact: 011 476 6876 or bodyandbeauty@absamail.co.za Calamity Jane Organises traditional party games for children such as pin-the-tail, running races, “I wrote a letter to my love”, and more. R500 per party. Contact Corinne: 079 573 0609 or corinne. willoughby@yahoo.com Clamber Club Parties For children 1–9 years. They’ll come to your home or chosen venue with equipment to clamber and climb on and entertainers to keep the children busy for 1½ hours.

The Clamber Club party venue for children 1–5 years is in a garden setting with swings, a sandpit, Clamber Club climbing equipment and more. Contact Clamber Club head office: 011 325 2031, headoffice@clamberclub.com or visit clamberclub.com Clowns R Us They organise entertainers such as face painters, and magicians.

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They also do pamper parties, cooking parties and more and go to a venue of your choice. A portion of the cost of the party goes to charity. Contact: 082 491 2583 or clowns@post.com Creative Faces Offers a wide range of detailed face-painting designs, body paintings, temporary airbrushed tattoos and glitter tattoos. Cost varies. Contact Surina: 073 631 0578, info@creativefaces. co.za or visit creativefaces.co.za Darin the Magician A 45-minute, oneman show, designed around a theme. All shows feature colourful and interesting props, magic and balloon twisting. From R1 300 to R2 000. Contact: 082 978 4260 Duo Sapphire Entertainment Professional entertainers and equipment suppliers travel to your venue. Cost varies. Contact: 011 948 8752, 082 657 6817, info@duosapphire.co.za or visit duosapphire.co.za Faerie Folk Supplies the entertainment, including dress-up gear, and the gifts at your home from R1 200. Contact Muriel or Cheri: 012 460 6894, 082 882 0207, faeries@faeriefolk.co.za or visit faeriefolk.co.za Fairytale Fantacies – Kids Party Entertainers Special characters entertain the children with crafts, games and more. Choose from Snow White, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty,

Princess Tiana, Tinkerbell, Ariel, Dora, Strawberry Shortcake, Barbie and pirates. They also do pamper parties.

Contact: 083 631 6655, 083 294 4783, info@fairytalefantacy.co.za or visit fairytalefantacy.co.za Featherbrooke Children Offers Le Petite Pamper Spa Parties in their playhouse, which include mini facials, mini manicures, mini pedicures, a chocolate fountain and gourmet cupcakes. Contact: Michel, 083 704 8600, springett@mweb.co.za or visit featherbrookechildren.co.za Jupiters A venue at Emperors Palace offering children’s games, educational activities, regular shows and a snack bar.

Contact: 011 928 1243 Kidz Play Provides entertainment such as face painting, balloon artists, pamper parties, and cooking and baking parties at Lemon Rose Farm. Cost varies.

Contact: 082 640 4390 or kidzplay@ playlearngrow.co.za Lil-Tings Hosts diva, theme, pizza and foam parties at your venue. Also supplies party packs. Contact Tammy: 083 671 4770, tammy@little-t.co.za or visit little-t.co.za Little Kickers They supply the sporting equipment, coaches and fun games for a soccer party; you supply the snacks and food. Each child receives

a medal afterwards. Contact: 0861 088 888, admin@littlekickers.co.za or visit littlekickers.co.za Magic Kids An interactive 40-minute magic show. Activities include dancing to music and giveaways. They also do face painting and temporary tattoos. Contact Ryan: 082 336 9287, ryan@illusionists. co.za or visit magickids.co.za Miles of Smiles Supplies entertainment of clowns, face painting, stilts, puppets, dance shows and more. Themes include pirate, underwater and Hannah Montana parties. Cost varies. Contact: 072 143 4003, chris@milesofsmilesonline.com or visit milesofsmilesonline.com Ollie the Singing Clown Ollie entertains children with Jollie the real monkey and Lullu the rat. He can also arrive in a real helicopter. Prices vary. Contact: 012 331 8894 or 083 694 1479 Paint My Face Professional face painters and they offer airbrush and glitter tattoos.

From R600 for face painting and R700 for tattoos. Contact: info@paintmyface.co.za or visit paintmyface.co.za Pamper Me Parties Offers a pamper party in your own home. Packages include manicures, pedicures, facials, temporary tattoos, make-up and party packs. Contact Alice: 082 780 1467, alice@pampermeparties.co.za or visit pampermeparties.co.za

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Puppetales A 40-minute show that includes ventriloquism, marionettes, music and two stories. Contact: 011 609 8158, 082 964 6189, machteld@ puppetales.co.za or visit puppetales.co.za Puppets and More Puppet shows that incorporate ventriloquism, music, drama and tricks. Contact Ann: 082 293 6097, parkersofbluehills@worldonline.co.za or visit puppetsandmore.co.za Puppet World Interactive puppet shows with music, lighting and puppet characters. Cost varies. Contact Heather: 031 208 8202, 082 808 0057 or visit puppetworld.co.za Remember Me For face painting and temporary tattoo art at your venue.

Novelty birthday cakes and cupcakes also on offer. R600 for approximately 20 children. Contact Dawn: 083 305 1237 or cecilye@absamail.co.za Spellbound Puppets Choose one of 30 interactive puppet shows. Cost varies. Contact: 011 648 5235, 082 744 3882, auerkell@global.co.za or visit spellboundpuppets.com The Enchanted Castle Students dress up as Snow White, Tinkerbell, Buzz Lightyear, Spider-Man and many others to entertain the children. You can either make use of their venue or book the mobile entertainers. Cost varies. Contact: 072 569 9332, 086 699 4308 or visit enchantedcastle.co.za The Incredible Dog Show A worldclass show at your birthday party in English or Afrikaans. Prices on request.

Contact Lloyd: 084 500 0415 or lloyd@ dogzcool.com Tricky Trevor Entertainment Offers magic shows and balloon modelling. A children’s carousel (for children 2−6 years) can be rented. Prices from R1 050– R2 400. Contact Trevor: 011 849 5847, 083 413 1272, duffys@iafrica.com or visit trickytrevor.co.za Unforgettable Parties Organises active, age-appropriate games at the venue of your choice. They interact with and entertain the children during play.

Activities include soccer, cricket and more. They also supply jumping castles, a waterslide, candyfloss machine and themed décor. For a 1½ hour party R980.

Contact: 011 333 9991 Wow Wee Magic Show A hilarious and fun-filled interactive magic show with puppet friends and more. Contact Ryan: 082 336 9287, ryan@illusionists. co.za or visit magickids.co.za X-clusive Girls Pamper Parties For girls from age four at their salon in Lonehill.

From R150 per girl. Contact: 082 372 1511 or x-clusive@mweb.co.za

Fancy dress hire All About Kidz Costumes Rents out and sells children’s character, novelty and fancy dress costumes. There are over 3 000 costumes to choose from.

Characters such as Barney can also be rented. Specialising in ages 6 months to 12 years. R80 for costume hire, and

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from R180 to R350 to purchase. Contact Samantha: 083 231 1652, allaboutkidz@ iburst.co.za or visit allaboutkidz.co.za Mosaic Kids Rents out special outfits for fairy, princess and mermaid parties or makes costumes specific to your theme.

Parties can also be tailor-made to your theme and budget. Prices range from R100 per outfit. Contact Cassandra: 083 604 0817, mosaic1@mweb.co.za or visit mosaickids.co.za Pirouette Costume Hire Supplies costumes and apparel. Garments available for hire or to buy. Special garments can be made up to requirements. Contact Geraldine: 011 792 1661, enquiries@pirouettecostumehire. co.za or visit pirouettecostumehire.co.za Sinderella Costume Hire Rents out fancy dress costumes for theme parties. Also sells theatrical novelty items and masks.

Linden. Contact: 011 782 0622, sinder@ global.co.za or visit costumehire.co.za Snog The Frog Hires out fancy-dress costumes for adults and children or makes up anything you need. Also sells party accessories and party décor. From R60. Contact Candy: 011 463 5187, 076 259 9434, candy@snogthefrog.co.za or visit snogthefrog.co.za Twigglywinks Offers a wide selection of quality, novelty designer costumes for sale and for hire. Themed costumes include Cinderella, Peter Pan, pirates, Ninja, knight, Spider-Man, Superman, Batman, Buzz Lightyear and Woody.

They also plan a party at a venue of your choice incorporating themed décor, furniture and entertainment. Party planning from R400−R3 000. Contact: 084 778 8850, toshak@telkomsa.net or tosha@twigglywinks.co.za

Indoor parties Build-a-Bear Children can make their own animal, give it a heart and personalise it from a selection of outfits and accessories. Each child takes a furry friend home. A dedicated party bear keeps the guests entertained (minimum of six guests). Printable invitations and thank-you cards included. Party packages start at R95. Branches in East Rand Mall, Sandton City and Clearwater Mall. Contact: 08611 BEARS (23277) or visit buildabear.co.za Compu-Kart An indoor racing facility offering parties for children 11 and older.

The party is based on a competition race format. R250 per child. Soft drink and pizza can be organised at an additional cost. Contact: 0861 GOKART (465278) or visit compu-kart.co.za Jellyfish Kids Pamper parties and indoor garden-tea parties for girls. Also arrange original themes and crafts as well as party packs, cupcakes and cakes. Cost varies.

Contact: 011 024 2379, fun@jellyfishkids. co.za or visit jellyfishkids.co.za Jimmy Jungles A supervised and secure adventure indoor playground in Edenvale for children from six months old to a maximum height of 1,4m. A coffee shop

offers adults hot and cold meals. R95 per child includes invitations, hot dogs, party packs, a birthday cake, two hours in the party room and a two-hour gift voucher for the birthday child. Contact: 011 452 2180, fun@jimmyjungles.co.za or visit jimmyjungles.co.za Mungolistix Entertainment includes a one-hour and 45-minute adventure play in their play section and a two-hour gift voucher for the birthday child. Children get a box with a fruit juice, a hot dog, packet of crisps and a packet of sweets.

R80 per child, minimum of five children.

Contact Marlese: 012 663 2798 or info@ mungolistix.co.za My Suite Hyatt Children aged 6−12 learn and enjoy an afternoon of culinary skills, table settings, table etiquette, serving and more. For a maximum of 20 children.

R200 per child. Contact: 011 280 1234 National Children’s Theatre The birthday child is invited on stage to receive a gift, a photograph of the cast and everyone sings “Happy birthday”.

Parktown. Venue hire R200 and R70 per child for a minimum of 20 people.

Contact: 011 484 1584 Piccino’s Playground A playground suitable for toddlers and children up to 12-year-olds. They arrange and host the party. There are large and small soft-play areas, toys, climbing gyms and activities.

The full-catering service includes kosher and halaal food. Cost varies. Contact: 011 728 0928 or piccinosplay@mweb.co.za Pottz Playroom A party venue for 10 or more children. Playtime, a party pack and a hot dog/toasted sandwich, sausage roll and juice costs R65 per child. Contact Shellee: 011 024 2753, 083 311 4175, playroom@pottz.co.za or visit pottz.co.za Randburg Raceway Suitable for children 1,2m and taller. The party includes a 10-minute go-kart race (20–25 laps) with optional catering and party packs.

Exclusive use is possible at an additional cost. From R120 per child. Contact: 011 792 2260, info@randburgraceway.co.za or visit randburgraceway.co.za Spur Steak Ranches Each child gets a selected children’s meal, soda, ice cream, and party cup filled with sweets for R42,95. Invitations optional. Balloons, headdresses and play canyons are available. Booking essential. Contact: 086 000 7787 or visit spur.co.za StudioGirls Themed modelling parties for girls from age nine. They dress up, apply make-up, and are then photographed by a professional photographer. They can view the entire photo shoot and choose their best photos. From R3 500 for 10 girls (maximum 15). Price includes a cake and chocolate fountain. Bryanston. Contact: 011 483 1135, 082 897 7540 or jacky@ outsidein.co.za Superbowling Greenstone Tenpin bowling parties where you can bring your own party foods (drinks must be bought from them). Additional party packs available. From R350. Contact: 011 452 3502, greenstone@superbowling.co.za or visit superbowling.co.za

Supermodel for a Day Studios Girls are treated to a video on beauty, and a quick talk about the dos and don’ts of modelling. The girls then go for professional make-up and a photo shoot (2,5 hours; 500 photos). Photos are shown live and the birthday girl gets a CD of images. All photos are uploaded to a secure website and within two weeks you get a copy of Fabulous magazine on which she is the cover girl and all the friends are featured inside. R4 000, includes invitations, and “champagne”.

Make-up artist R750. Magazine R750.

Contact Erik: 083 442 0873, erik@ supermodelforaday.co.za or visit supermodelforaday.co.za The Ice Rink Northgate Take to the ice for an ice-capade. R63 per person, includes entrance fee and skate rental.

Groups of 10 and more R50 each. Selfcatering allowed. Randburg. Contact: 011 794 8706 Très Jolie Restaurant Fully-licensed, child-friendly restaurant and party venue with a floodlit playground, jungle gyms, jumping castles and sandpit. It also features a touch-and-feed animal farm as well as pony rides. They provide beverages and catering. Optional extras include balloons, cakes and party packs.

Venue hire R900; menu varies. Contact: 011 794 2473, 082 976 0762, 079 527 5008, info@tresjolie.co.za or visit tresjolie.co.za Wonderwall All-weather option with two standard packages. They can also customise packages to suit your budget, with or without catering. Kya Sands, Randburg. R125 catered otherwise R90 per head. Contact: 082 486 2464 or visit wonderwall.co.za Yeesh! Fun for Kids A giant two-level play structure, jumping castles, ball ponds, slides and trampolines. There is also a Paint Pot corner where children can do art and crafts, paint pottery or T-shirts, and take their work home. The Bryanston branch also has a mini indoor soccer pitch. You can book a private party area. R900 for the first 10 children includes private party setup, two hours of play, a staff member to assist throughout, standard balloons, table cloths, invites and more. Contact Bryanston: 011 463 5847, Woodmead: 011 656 9669, yeesh@ mweb.co.za or visit yeesh.co.za

Indoor and outdoor parties Abingdon Yard Secure garden setting in Beaulieu, Kyalami, with ample shade and covered play. They offer indoor and outdoor play equipment as well as an animal touch farm. Catering and décor can be arranged or you may provide your own. Contact Rowann: 082 900 4078 or rmiller@ abingdon.co.za Angelo’s Kitchen Children make their own pizza and choose their own topping.

A childminder assists them. There is a jumping castle. R39,50 per child.

Bryanston. Contact: 011 463 5800 magazine joburg

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Boswell Wilkie Circus Children from 4 years old can experience the magic of the Big Top as professional circus performers get them to participate in circus activities.

A hot dog, candyfloss, popcorn and a cool drink are included. From R1 000 for a minimum of 10 children. Birthday cakes and party packs can be arranged.

Randvaal. Contact: 016 365 5330, 083 226 1213, info@circus.co.za or visit circus.co.za Cedar Farm Children can feed the animals and there is also a children’s play area with a slide, two swings, a climbing frame, seesaw, fireman’s pole, a jumping castle and a large sandpit. R1 500 for three hours. Contact: 073 787 4578 or visit cedarfarm.co.za Col ‘Cacchio Pizzeria A family-friendly restaurant that offers a “make your own pizza” facility, where children can play with dough, toys and colour in the paper table sheets. Some venues have optional indoor and outdoor play areas. Children’s meals start from R28. Branches in Atholl, Benmore, Bryanston, Emperor’s Palace, Fairland and Northgate. For more info: visit colcacchio.co.za Earthkids Party Yard Children’s parties are hosted in an adequate indoor area in the event of rain. The venue can cater for up to 100 people. Contact Michelle: 011 023 5746, 083 233 7806, party@earthkids. co.za or visit earthkids.co.za

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Egoli Café Offers a children’s play area, climbing wall and restaurant.

Catering and décor can be arranged.

Prices vary. Contact Laura, Kirsten or Sylvia: 011 609 4755 (weekdays), 028 467 2345 (weekends and after hours), café@egolilodge.co.za or visit egolilodge.co.za George & Lucy’s Party Venue Upmarket venue that caters for children’s parties.

They have a large play area with a jumping castle, bike track, sandpit, jungle gym, trampoline and zip slide.

From R1 200 for an exclusive party.

Contact Hayley: 082 578 0468, hayley@georgeandlucys.com or visit georgeandlucys.com Gingko Provides a garden and play area with a jungle gym and ball pools. A nanny is available on weekends and by request during the week. There is a full children’s menu and special party menus can be created around your budget or theme.

They work with as much organic content as possible, and their foods are mostly sugar- and gluten-free. Dairy-free options available. Venue hire is free, and price of food and drinks dependent on your choice. Contact Catherine: 011 486 3361, 082 804 3970 or info@gingko.co.za Gold Reef City Theme Park Birthday packages include free entrance for the birthday child, reduced prices for five

or more friends, access to all rides and attractions, and a meal from the children’s menu with a soft drink. R130 per child includes rides and a meal voucher (minimum five children). For toddlers or children under 1,3m, R90 includes a meal. Contact Abida: 011 248 6991, abaatjies@goldreefcity.co.za or visit goldreefcity.co.za Grannies Garden A children’s play venue in Blairgowrie with a bike track, party room, party kitchen, craft room, computer room, dress-up room, fantasy room, modular playroom, trampoline, playhouse, jungle gym, outside playhouse, tent, swings and a Nintendo Wii. R30 per child. Contact: 011 326 4265, info@granniesgarden.co.za or visit granniesgarden.co.za Hoots and Toots Parties A theme party venue situated within Lifestyle Garden Centre in Randpark Ridge. They offer a children’s playground on astro turf, a jumping castle, sandpit, Robinson Crusoe jungle gym, bikes and sand art and craft parties. Party hostesses take children on pony rides and pushbikes, and supervise games. Various party treats on offer. They also offer professional face painting, and sell party accessories and birthday cakes.

Parties suitable for children 1−10 years.

From R1 050 for a party for 10 children.

Contact: 011 792 0460 or 074 116 5444

Imagine the Venue A spacious allweather indoor venue set in the Farmall district with a garden and thatched roof area. Offers jumping castles and waterslides, cakes, party packs, games and themed décor. Prices on request. Contact Gail: 082 928 7474, imagine@mailnet.co.za or visit imaginechildrensparties.co.za I-Play There is a soft-play area and a craft corner as well as jungle gyms and a Wendy house to explore. Randpark Ridge.

Cost varies. Contact: 011 792 0377 Kidz Party Zone Plans the party, and supplies the décor, jumping castles, cakes and other party accessories. Party décor R30 per child; hire of jumping castles ranges from R200 to R300; cakes from R250. Contact Yvette: 012 331 3460, kidzpartyzone.biz@gmail.com or visit kidzpartyzone.co.za Kidzville Safe, clean environment exclusively for children’s parties. Themes include party farm, boot camp, pirate, Survivor and teen disco. There is plenty of play equipment and organised activities. Secure parking. Situated between Benoni and Kempton Park. Cost varies according to theme. Contact Beth: 083 463 1429, beth@kidzville.co.za or visit kidzville.co.za Kinderland Party Venue Indoor and outdoor facilities, which include two

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private party venues with halls. Offers themed parties, children’s platters, cakes, party packs, balloons and catering for adults. There is a bar for adults, bigscreen TV and a braai area. They also rent out party accessories. Venue hire for three hours R850, which includes a jumping castle, feeding of rabbits, coffee and tea for adults, juice for children and all the plates, cups, serviettes, tables and chairs. Equestria. Contact Annalize: 082 680 1368, info@kinderlandpv.co.za or visit kinderlandpv.co.za Lola Park Safe family park with lots of imported rides and attractions. They offer an educational petting zoo with exotic animals, fairy garden, walkways and fountains. Variety of entertainment options available. Party themes include Wild West town, fairy garden, castle, Barbie, Aladdin, knights and Old MacDonald’s Farm. Boksburg. Contact: 011 918 0854, pa@lolapark.com or visit lolapark.com Partyzone Children get one leisure activity, a combo meal, party pack, birthday certificate and a Kidzone retail discount voucher. You can add activities such as the Aquadome, adventure golf, rock climbing, tenpin bowling and the animal farm. R80; added on activities from R5−R15. Contact: 016 982 8342 or partyinfo@emeraldcasino.co.za

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Playfare Children’s party venue that includes private use of both an indoor and outdoor areas that can host up to 80 people. They supply a tea and coffee station, chairs and tables, large ice baths, a braai area and car guard. They do the cleaning up and can assist with party packs, cakes, catering, décor, invites and children’s entertainment. R600 for a threehour party. Contact Tracy: 082 601 6552, info@playfare.co.za or visit playfare.co.za Precious Poppets Preschool and Party Place A self-catering venue on a country estate, with an outdoor play area, jungle gym with sandpit, bathroom, kitchen and indoor dining area, adults’ tables, chairs and table cloths, children’s tables and chairs, large braai, umbrellas and secure parking The venue can cater for approximately 30 adults and 30 children. Venue hire R1 500.

Contact Darylanne: 082 573 5798, info@preciouspoppets.co.za or visit preciouspoppets.co.za Serendipity Fully-serviced party venue within a garden environment. Can arrange childminders, food, art and crafts parties, cupcake decorating parties or pamper parties, magicians, face painters, balloon modellers, ponies, jumping castles, circus acts and more. From R750. Contact: 011 447 7386, serendipityplay@gmail.com or visit serendipityplay.co.za

Smilemakers Party planners and equipment suppliers with a broad range of party entertainment and entertainers.

Options include jumping castles, children’s carousels, quad-biking, camel rides, clowns and more. From R550. Contact: 011 640 6096, party@smilemakers.co.za or visit smilemakers.co.za The Hide Out Kyalami An indoor and outdoor party venue with a garden and rolling lawns. Venue hire includes use of all kitchenware, furniture and cutlery. For 30 children, including adults. Three-hour venue hire R1 100. Contact Debbie: 072 193 3652, thehideout@netwave.co.za or visit thehideoutkyalami.co.za The Mustard Seed Party Venue and Activity Centre The venue has a large wooden-floored indoor area and a spacious outdoor area, with a jungle gym, tractor and motorbike playground equipment, trampoline, outdoor play equipment, a bicycle track and garden.

They have party planners as well as an in-house photographer. R950 for three hours. Contact: 082 568 6106, 072 276 3506 or infomustardseed@gmail.com The Party Place Indoor and outdoor facilities include swings, a jumping castle, a water slide, a sandpit, a braai area, a kitchenette and more. From R1 300.

Contact: 082 370 7108, rzpartyplace@ gmail.com or visit thepartyplace.co.za

The Secret Garden A tea garden and separate party venue in Norscot Manor with an enclosed children’s play area, sandpit, Wendy house, swing boats, black bikes and slides. Themed party packages for maximum 40 children include décor, linen, food and an option of two party packs. Full catering service. From R50 per child. Contact Ricky: 082 828 0297 or norscotkidz@gmail.com The Ski Deck Children aged 3−12 years can enjoy all the fun of bum-boarding, slope surfing and sliding down the 20m long slope. The party is exclusive and is held in a lapa at the slope. A children’s playground is next to the lapa. R1 400 for a two-hour party, use of venue and ski slope only. Contact: 011 781 6528, info@ ski.co.za or visit ski.co.za Triba Offers themed parties (Under the sea, Alice in Wonderland, Wacky Wild West, Fairies and Elves, Outer Space).

They set up, organise the food and supply the hostess. Children get to play two supervised games. Tea menu options for parents. R130 per child; minimum 10 children. Contact: 011 501 4740 Tweedles Party Venue Offers catering and supplies décor, entertainment, equipment and/or videographer or photographer.

Venue hire: R1 400, including jumping castle. Contact: 082 612 2272, info@ tweedles.co.za or visit tweedles.co.za

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Ultimate Functions Supplies party items, party boxes, buckets, cakes, balloons and jumping castles. Offers puppet shows and face painters. From R800−R3 150.

Contact Joey: 011 234 8016, 082 809 7843, info@ultimatefunctions.co.za or visit ultimatefunctions.co.za Words Bookstore A venue with a play area, party packs, vintage tea party, pamper parties, animal parties and art and crafts parties. They also do catering and photography. Midrand. Contact Maria: 082 896 0182 or maria@wordsbookstore.co.za

Outdoor parties AcroBranch Combines sport and adventure as you go from tree to tree doing fun exercises. Birthday parties get full access to all the junior courses. You also get the use of all their facilities like the lapa. Catering not supplied. R2 000 for a minimum of 23 people. Contact: 078 438 7463, bookings@acrobranch.co.za or visit acrobranch.co.za Adventure Golf Players receive two games of golf, a party bucket, a cool drink and more. Upgrade options available.

From R850−R1 250. Contact: 011 788 3282, info@adventuregolf.co.za or visit adventuregolf.co.za Adventure n Beyond Adventure parties include activities such as a climbing wall, paintball, archery, air rifles and a gladiator inflatable obstacle course. Costing option 1 two hours R90; option 2 three hours R120; option 3 five hours R150. Contact Paul: 083 449 9819, info@anb.co.za or visit anb.co.za Aerial Displays You can book a private party at either of their two venues at Montecasino or Mushroom Farm Park.

The children go on a 15-minute ride in the earth-linked balloon. They have venues where the party is set up. Optional extras such as party platters can be booked.

R2 000 for up to 15 children. Contact Maxine: 083 626 1477 or visit aerialdisplays.co.za Avalanche Finds a special theme for your party and provides entertainers and birthday cake. Snack platters for children and adults available. Cost includes two hours’ access to the slope, private decorated table, popcorn and balloons.

Cost: 10 children R2 000, 20 children R2 750, 30 children R3 550, 40 children R4 400. Exclusive venue hire R5 500. Contact: 011 467 2426 or visit avalanche.co.za Bear Country Party Place Party venue in Muldersdrift with a touch and feed farmyard, jungle gym, swings, trampoline, swimming pool and pony rides. They

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also organise treasure hunts, Survivor parties, craft parties and pool parties.

Catering can be organised. From R950 for 2½ hours, including bottomless tea and coffee and juice for the children. Also includes animal feed. Contact Kathy: 082 446 8456 or bearcountry@absamail.co.za Blandford Manor “Go Wild” for children seven years and older. Children take part in two activities, which is supervised by instructors. Activities include a foefie slide and tree climbing with a harness from platform to platform. Afterwards they play team games. R2 500 for 2½-hour party for a maximum of 20 children. R100 extra per child thereafter. Contact: 011 462 8710 Boot Camp SA For military-themed, 2½-hour children’s parties. They cover everything from invitations to the venue and cake. Suitable for children 5 years and older. Cost varies. Contact: 084 234 2668, headquarters@bootcamp-sa.co.za or visit bootcamp-sa.co.za Café Blu A large venue with a children’s play area. They provide the catering, a childminder and decorations. Average platter from R320. Contact: 011 022 4575, info@cafeblu.co.za or visit cafeblu.co.za Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park Outdoor party venue, but they also travel to your venue of choice with their reptiles as an entertainment option.

Children get the opportunity to touch and hold a baby crocodile. They also offer a show-and-tell where children can learn more about the world of crocodiles.

Prices on request. Contact: 083 321 1016, 083 657 7561, info@croccity.co.za or visit croccity.co.za Daytona Adventure Park Bike and quad adventure park north of Fourways offers children’s quad-biking parties. Suitable for ages 7 and older. R80−R110 per child.

Contact Greg or Vic: 083 625 1537, 072 202 7434 or daytonams@yebo.co.za Dipsy Dots Offers a party venue with a lapa, play area, jungle gym, sandpit and plastic motorbikes. They’ll organise your entire party for you according to your theme – from the catering and entertainment to setup. Cost varies.

Contact: 012 654 1876, 083 518 2132 or visit dipsydots.co.za Dirt Ryders Adventures Outdoor adventure farm with a play centre, pony rides, go-karts, a swimming pool and more. From R12−R110. Contact: 071 677 8673, 082 458 3634, clive@dirtryders. co.za or visit dirtryders.co.za Elf’s Hill Party Yard A purpose-built children’s party venue. Facilities include a pirate’s ship, trampoline, sandpit, bike track, swings, seesaw, sports field,

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amphitheatre, tree house, Wendy house, and play hall. Weekend parties R1 400 for three hours; weekday parties R1 000 for three hours. Contact Estelle: 082 573 5386, estelle@elfshill.co.za or visit elfshill.co.za Fantasy Park There are two venues: Aeroplaying, which includes a real passenger airliner; and Enchanting, which overlooks a large sports field that’s perfect for soccer parties. Chartwell. From R800−R1 400. Contact Nicky: 072 256 7834 or visit fantasypark.co.za Footloose Trout Farm Children’s fishing parties, including party packs, a swimming pool as well as a playground with swings, and slide and climbing equipment. Prices on request. Contact: 011 466 9911, 083 462 2779 or visit footloosetroutfarm.co.za Frogs & Freckles Party Venue This exclusive venue in Ruimsig offers swings, a sandpit and a jungle gym. You can choose from many party themes and additional activities. Customised packages can be arranged. Weekend venue hire R950 and R50 per child for themed parties. Contact Inette: 083 456 0342 or inette@wol.co.za FutureBoks Rugby Academy Youngsters are carefully coached while having fun. Cost depends on the number of children booked. Contact Jacki: 083 295 6619, futureboks@polka.co.za or visit futureboksrugbyacademy.co.za Go Wild Adventure Zone Children can test their nerve, climbing skill, strength and balance on ropes and platforms suspended in trees, with a foefie slide and Survivor team games. R2 500 for up to 18 children, additional children R100 each. Maximum 20 children. Contact: 011 462 5102, aileen@go-wild.co.za or visit go-wild.co.za Hedgehog Lane Facilities include a fairground with a Hedgehog express train, Ferris wheel, roundabout and mechanical swing. Other party venues available are the Duck Pond, the Secret Garden and the Wishing Well. Book the venue only or opt for the catered and entertained package.

From R750 for venue hire only. Contact: 011 463 8692, info@hedgehoglane.co.za or visit hedgehoglane.co.za Hobo’s Hide Partyland A children’s party venue in the country with pony rides.

R950 per party including pony rides.

Contact Caroline: 082 330 2661 or visit thepartyland.co.za Honeydew A-maze-ing Mazes Children can explore giant mazes in teams.

Weekends only R75 per child, including crisps, drink, ice cream and reserved picnic area under the trees. Contact Judy: 073 795 2174, enquiries@maizemaze.co.za or visit honeydewmazes.co.za

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Jozi-X Action, adventure parties with trapeze, jungle swings, bubble balls, tightrope-walking and more. Bryanston.

Contact Marco: 082 456 2358, info@jozix. co.za or visit jozix.co.za Kiddie Rides Automated children’s rides (like those in shopping centres) delivered and set up for your party. From R550 for two rides. Contact: 011 822 9265, 072 245 7708, a_jordaan@mweb.co.za or visit kiddierides.co.za Kid-e-up Party Yard They have a huge garden, trampolines, jungle gym, jeep, motorbike track, swings and more. Do your own catering or book them to do it. Suitable for children 1−10 years. Cost varies. Contact: 071 419 8008, bookings@ kid-e-up.co.za or visit kideup.co.za Larney Ladybirds Party Venue Fullythemed and catered parties or you can choose the do-it-yourself option. Venue hire from R995 for 25 adults and 20 children, thereafter R10 per adult and R5 per child thereafter. Contact Bianca: 083 770 7702, bianca@larneyladybirds.co.za or visit larneyladybirds.co.za Lilliput Kids Children can play among fairies and elves in a garden in Kyalami, and be entertained by jungle gyms, sandpits and an old Beetle called Buster.

Cost based on the package you choose.

Contact Sonja: 073 175 3104, info@ lilliputkids.co.za or visit lilliputkids.co.za Micos Party Place A private garden venue suitable for children 1−6 years and for a maximum of 45 children. Viewing by appointment only. From R1 500 for venue hire. Contact: 082 789 5110, info@micos. co.za or visit micos.co.za Mike’s Kitchen The birthday child receives a free meal, ice cream, balloon and a special gift. Book for 10 or more children and get a free themed birthday cake. Alberton. Contact: 011 869 5823 or visit mikeskitchen.co.za Oki-doki A secure, child-friendly play and party venue where children can run wild.

Cost varies. Contact Connie: 011 888 8940, 082 824 1089, info@oki-doki.co.za or visit oki-doki.co.za Post House Parties There is space to run or enjoy a game of cricket.

They also offer a jungle gym, seesaws, swing and a trampoline. Children can touch and feed the farm animals.

Pony rides, jumping castles and other entertainment can be arranged.

R1 750 includes tea, coffee, crockery, cutlery, chairs, tables, two assistants and use of the sound system. Chartwell North. Contact: 011 460 1024, nicole@ posthouseparties.co.za or visit posthouseparties.co.za

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Predator World Offers party venue and organisation, including activities, food, animals and toys. From R25 per child.

Contact San-Mare: 014 552 6900, 076 817 6869, info@predatorworld.co.za or visit predatorworld.co.za River Café, Sandton Choose the gazebo or deck setting and they’ll do the rest including supplying food and entertainment such as a jumping castle, water slide, jungle gyms, and more. Other entertainment is available on request such as pony rides, go-karts, face painting or soccer parties. Venue hire R700, includes use of all restaurant facilities and play equipment. Contact Frank: 011 783 2442 or visit rivercafesandton.co.za Rocky Ridge Estate They have two well-equipped lapas and a Fantasy Mini Town for the children. There are two play parks with loads of play equipment. They can organise themed parties and do the catering for your. Costs vary. Contact: 082 566 6360, heidi@rockyridgeestate. co.za or visit rockyridgeestate.co.za Runnin’ Rebels Soccer A two-hour soccer party with technical and matchplay activities run by coaches. Book at their venues or at a venue of your choice.

R1 000. Contact David: 072 603 2674, info@runninrebels.co.za Special Forces Awesome Kids Parties A party venue in Fourways Mall offering

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army, Survivor and children’s paintball parties. They can do the catering or you can self-cater. Prices vary. Contact Sharon: 011 465 7551, 082 922 1611 or specialforces@mweb.co.za Sundowner Adventures Fly-fishing parties at Waterfall Country Estate in Magaliesburg.

Equipment is provided and catering available on request. R100 per child and R20 per non-fishing adult. Contact: 011 315 4503, sundown@iafrica.com or visit sundownerproducts.wordpress.com Sunset Mountain Party Venue Situated in Muldersdrift, it provides a large thatched lapa for adults and a host of activities for children including trampolines and jungle gyms.

Contact: 072 850 3956 or chantall@ sunsetmountain.co.za The Mighty Jungle Large venue for exclusive hire with jungle gyms, sandpit, merry-go-round, foefie slide, mini-soccer field, scooter/bike track and teepees. A covered patio caters for all weather and a fully-equipped kitchen is available.

Bedfordview. Venue hire R1 400, includes party invitations. Themed décor and party accessories on request. Contact Nadia or Sonia: 082 880 9335, 083 452 8120 or mightyjungle@global.co.za The Play Pen Kids Party Venue Entertainment includes jungle gyms, a bike track, a dolls’ house, a sandpit, toys

and an assistant. Price includes tea and coffee for adults, juice for children, a fullyfitted kitchen with crockery and cutlery, tables and table cloths, fridge, freezer and microwave. Venue hire R1 000, jumping castle R250. The Palms Nursery, Northriding. Contact Prabash: 084 310 2764 or playpen@telkomsa.net The Silver Birch Restaurant Children make their own pizza and play in the outside play area. From R39. Contact: 011 791 0174 or visit thesilverbirch.co.za Wild Cave Adventures Children from age 8 upwards can explore an underground cave, dressed in overalls and a mine helmet. Price on request. Cradle of Humankind. Contact: 082 486 2464, info@ wildcaves.co.za or visit wildcaves.co.za Wild Waters Water rides, putt-putt and braai facilities, cash bar and on-site cafeteria available. Children 2–5 years R60; children 6 and older and adults R100. Boksburg. Contact: 011 826 6736, wildwaters@mweb.co.za or visit wildwatersboksburg.co.za Zwartkops Quad Centre Quad parties for children from age 4. Includes party packs, a cake, cupcakes and hostess platters. You can also hire the venue for a spit braai. From R800 to R1 000 for venue hire; per child from R100−R180. Contact: 012 323 1932, 082 688 6046, bookings@ quadrides.co.za or visit quadrides.co.za

Music parties Pop Star Parties Children aged 7 years and up can spend a day recording a song. They can also swim, play games and design their own CD cover. Each child goes home with a CD. R3 700, includes backing track, CDs, venue hire, use of studio, production and housekeeping. Contact Sue: 083 230 0319 or suegrealy_studio@hotmail.com Wired Sound Studios − Pop Idols Parties A karaoke-style party in a professional recording studio. The venue is best suited for children 9 years and older. Weekdays from R1 850, Fridays from R2 000, weekends from R2 500.

Contact Catherine: 082 339 4733 or info@wiredsoundstudios.co.za

Party planners ABC Jumping Castle and Theme Parties Supplies jumping castles and organises everything for a themed birthday party. Services include delivery, setup and collection. Contact: 083 724 7714, malissa@abcjumpingcastles.co.za or visit abcjumpingcastles.co.za Bluebells and Butterflies Organises your party at a venue of your choice.

Services include invitations, catering and themed décor. They also take professional

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photographs and manage the function for you. Cost varies. Contact: 011 976 3136 or 082 419 9598 Crazy Chameleon Specialises in themed party packages. They set up all your décor requirements at your home or venue of choice. Other services include cakes, party packs, balloons, catering, entertainment and a wide range of accessories. Cost varies depending option chosen. Various franchises countrywide. Contact head office: 0861 KIDDIE (543343) or visit crazychameleon.co.za Creative Concepts They plan and coordinate themed parties. They supply décor, party supplies, cakes and cupcakes, novelty gifts, party packs, themed chocolates, banners, polystyrene décor, balloon décor, personalised wrappers and invitations. Contact Bashie: 079 038 3622 or ordjfreight@mweb.co.za Firefly Kidz Crew A full party-planning service. There are 52 themes to choose from. From R30. Contact Fiona or JeanMari: 082 859 7871, 084 511 4658, fiona@ fireflykidz.co.za, jean-mari@fireflykidz.co.za or visit fireflykidz.co.za Jumping Castle Mania Offers a full party-planning service, providing cakes, jumping castles, rides and themed décor.

Cost varies. Contact: 084 593 2996, info@jumpingcastlemania.co.za or visit jumpingcastlemania.co.za

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Kiddiliscious A party planner and hiring service, which includes birthday gifts.

Prices on request. Contact: 082 785 4917, kiddi@vodamail.co.za or visit kiddi.co.za Knight’s Fairytales Rents out children’s tables and chairs, plates, serviettes and cups as well as candyfloss machines, Hula Hoops and ball ponds. Party packs from R12,50 and cakes and cupcakes from R180. Contact Natasha: 079 848 5097 or n.knight@mweb.co.za.

Little Lees Parties Party-planning service specialising in renting out equipment, setting up the party, supplying cakes, platters, party treats, centrepieces, piñatas, party options and more. From R380− R850. Contact: 071 512 9399, littlelees@ telkomsa.net or visit littlelees.co.za Monkey Magic Organises themed birthday parties for all ages. Several franchises in Gauteng. Parties from R400−R800. For more info: visit monkeymagic.co.za Party Bliss Arranges children’s themed birthday parties and supplies all the décor required. Contact Celene: 011 849 9889, 083 792 5176, info@partybliss. co.za or visit itspartybliss.co.za Party Head Quarters Organises the party from the venue, entertainment, including Ferris wheels and jumping castles, themed goods, food and more. Contact: 084 593 2996, info@partyheadquarters. co.za or visit partyheadquarters.co.za

Party Packs ’n Piñatas Makes cakes, cupcakes and biscuits in your theme and matching party packs. Also supplies piñatas, jelly cameras and party décor.

Piñatas from R140, busters R25, party packs from R18, cupcakes from R7, décor on request. Contact Kim: 087 805 9977, 082 683 5766, info@partypacksandpinatas. co.za or visit partypacksandpinatas.co.za Party Smarti Organises parties, including catering, décor, linen, tables and chairs, entertainment and cakes. They have a wide variety of themes to choose from as well as jumping castles. Prices on request.

Contact Joanne: 071 872 9629, info@ partysmarti.co.za or visit partysmarti.co.za Party Trash Arranges and books venues, decorates as per your theme and supplies tableware, cakes, cupcakes and personalised party packs. Quotes on request. Contact Jacqui: 011 662 2591, 082 698 7448, jacqui.partytrash@gmail.com or visit partytrash.co.za Party Trix Event organisers supplying everything from cakes to party packs.

Prices on request. Contact: 083 274 5019, info@partytrix.co.za or visit partytrix.co.za Picnics for Pixies Picnics for children and a full party-planning service. Contact Sam (Randburg): 081 329 7538, randburg@ dialapicnic.co.za, Manuela (Alberton): 083 601 7135, alberton@dialapicnic.co.za or visit picnicsforpixies.co.za

Savory Blu Plans parties from finding a venue to organising catering, décor and coordinating the event. Cost varies.

Contact: karryn@iburst.co.za Sportsman Events Provides the venue, everything for your theme, inflatables, décor, entertainment, party packs and games. Prices on request. Contact Danielle: 011 646 3440 or danielle@sportsman.co.za Supakids Offers various options and parties are custom-designed. They source a venue or go to yours and supply the décor, food and entertainment. Contact: 082 856 5527 or visit supakids.co.za The Party Planners Organises furniture, entertainment, décor, tents, food, themes, customised parties, jumping castles and more. Contact: 083 775 9823 The Party Pros Creates party packages with your theme from the décor, catering, entertainment and party packs. Amazing Race, Fear Factor and Survivor parties for children aged 9 and older. Contact: 083 483 6781, info@thepartypros.co.za or visit thepartypros.co.za Tipsy Teapots Plans the party, lends help, hosts it at your venue or theirs. From R350.

Contact: 082 720 9662, info@tipsyteapots. co.za or visit tipsyteapots.co.za TNT Events Sources and supplies the catering, the venue, entertainment, accessories and more. Contact: 074 894 0776 or tammy@tntevents.co.za

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books

a good read

View our book blog at

childmag.co.za

for toddlers great gift

Zoe and Beans – Where is Binky Boo?

By Chloë and Mick Inkpen

Kipper

By Mick Inkpen

(Hodder Children’s Books, R109) Kipper has touched a chord with children and parents alike and in this edition Kipper gets tired of his old and worn basket and sets off to find another place to sleep. Needless to say, he eventually returns to his old basket, where his pet rat and favourite bone await him. It is the best basket in the whole wide world.

Inkpen’s illustrations are as enduring as always and children as young as two will enjoy the story and the drawings. This edition of the book comes with a special 10-episode DVD where your child can watch Kipper on his trail of adventures.

Freddie and the Fairy

By Julia Donaldson and Karen George (Macmillan Children’s Books, R72) Freddie is delighted when he meets a fairy who offers to grant him his every wish. But fairy Bessie-Belle can’t hear very well, and Freddie’s wishes keep coming out wrong.

Wishing for a pet gets him a net, and a dog turns into a frog.

Then Freddie tries for a cat, only to be surprised by a bat.

Freddie really gets annoyed when, instead of a parrot, he gets a carrot! Luckily the Fairy Queen appears to set things right. This lovely, simple story has a great lesson at the end.

The Perfect Hug

By Joanna Walsh and Judi Abbot (Simon & Schuster, R90) There are hugs for wrigglers, and hugs for gigglers; hugs that are tickly and hugs that are prickly. The little Panda in this story is out to find the perfect hug – with hilarious consequences. But will he find it? This book shows there is a perfect hug right under your nose. A feel-good picture book, this is simply bursting with the cuddliest, “snuggliest”, most perfect hugs and is an adorable follow-up to The Biggest Kiss.

You’ll have a special mommy or daddy moment every time you read this story to your child, as it’s sure to lead to a long hug of its own.

(Macmillan Children’s Books, R106) Zoe loves her doll Molly, but so does her dog, Beans. And it’s become a bit of a problem. It all began when Beans lost his favourite toy, Binky Boo. Will Zoe and Beans ever find him? Let’s hope so, because Molly is getting very stinky! Join the lovable, lively Zoe and her devoted dog Beans on their very first adventure. Zoe and Beans: Where is Binky Boo? is the beginning of a new series featuring two adorable characters children are sure to love. Children aged three plus will enjoy the heart-warming comic storytelling combined with vibrant characterised illustrations.

for preschoolers for early graders Giraffe’s Knot

By Michaël Escoffier and Kris Di Giacomo (Macmillan Children’s Books, R66) One morning Giraffe wakes up with a knot in her neck. All the animals give suggestions to solve her problem. One suggests cutting her up to untangle the pieces, the other wants to attach her to a crane and stretch her until the knot is untangled. A third even thinks if she swallows a snake it will help. Poor Giraffe is desperate. Then Elephant tells her about the great elephant sangoma, called TickleTickle.

Needless to say, a lot of laughter saves the day. This is a lovely African-themed book to teach children all about how friends can help untangle “knots” in our lives.

Hidden Images – Garden

By Roger Burrows (Running Press Kids, R75) Children between four and eight will have hours of fun with this book. This is a colouring-in book with a difference, which stimulates visual creativity and guides you to find flowers, plants, animals and other related shapes and objects buried within every page. On each page you’ll find patterns repeated – upside down and back-to-front.

Use coloured pencils, felt-tip pens or crayons to create your very own garden. You may even want to frame some of the designs or use them for greeting cards, decorations or as wrapping paper.

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One Potato

By Sue Porter (Mathew Price Ltd, R63) Children between the ages of four and eight will delight in this story about Goat’s quest to get the last potato on the plate. Unfortunately the other farm animals have the same idea. So, he suggests several competitions, and the winner will get the potato. But being farm animals, they all have different strengths and the tasks dished out by Goat seem a bit unfair. Goose’s neck is too wobbly to stand on its head, and Pig is too round to race to the top of the hayloft. In the end, the clever mice end up with the prize.

Near One Cattail

By Anthony D. Fredericks and Jennifer DiRubbio (Dawn Publications, R130) This stunningly illustrated book teaches children about the importance of wetlands and why they are in danger. Children go on an exploration of a wetland and learn in rhyming text about all the animals that live there. It shows the interconnectedness of the animals that can be found there and it will trigger young readers’ curiosity to find out more. This is the fourth title in the award-winning Web of Life series and children as young as four will enjoy the pictures, while children up to the age of 10 will love to read it and learn more.

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61

books

for early graders

for preteens and teens

Lulu and the Brontosaurus

By Judith Viorst and Lane Smith

Sinbad the Sailor Retold and illustrated by Marcia Williams (Walker Books, R107) This book is bound to get reluctant readers age six and up hooked on books. The stories of Sinbad the Sailor are some of the best-loved tales from The Arabian Nights.

Children can travel over the seas and follow Sinbad’s adventures retold in Marcia Williams’ vivid comic-strip style. These seven stories are presented in an entertaining and accessible way, packed with hilarious creatures and spectacular feats. The book also includes fun maps you can refer to as Sinbad sails the seas. This is also a good way to introduce youngsters to classic tales.

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(Simon & Schuster, R89) Lulu always gets what she wants, even if it means screeching until the light bulbs burst. But when she asks her parents for a brontosaurus for her birthday the answer, for once, is a definite “No!”. So Lulu goes in search of the perfect brontosaurus herself.

Deep in the forest Lulu finally finds him: Mr B. Mr B agrees that having a pet would be a wonderful thing, but Lulu quickly finds out that his idea of a pet is not quite the same as hers. Could Lulu have finally met her match? This is a fresh and funny story with a surprising ending.

Tails and Treats

By Lara Mare and Alistair Ackermann (Logogog Press, R160) Let the African bush come alive as you venture through the pages of this wonderfully illustrated and moving story, which emphasises the importance of accepting one another’s differences and striving for something greater than yourself.

The story is interactive and filled with creative tasks to encourage right-brain development, while also providing interesting left-brain animal facts as you encounter the African animals on your adventure. Delicious recipes, such as Monkey Toffee Mango pudding, have been scattered throughout the story, ensuring you get a real taste for Africa. The book comes with an apron and a chef’s hat.

Science – The Definitive Guide

By Piers Bizony (Quercus Publishing, R290) This colossal book provides a complete overview of all major branches of science, illustrated with more than 300 stunning large-scale images. Thematically arranged and illustrated, it covers earth, climate, chemistry, biology, space, physics and cosmology. Between its covers you’ll find everything you need to know about key scientific concepts and discoveries, including plate tectonics, elements and compounds, photosynthesis, the water and carbon cycles and much more. When your teen isn’t using this book for science projects, you’ll be displaying it on your coffee table.

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for preteens and teens Daizy Star and the Pink Guitar

By Cathy Cassidy (Puffin Books, R75) Cathy Cassidy has written numerous books for young girls, and this follow up to Shine on Daizy Star will be another hit. This time 11-year-old Daizy is ready to dazzle everyone with her brand-new pink guitar. She’s convinced she’ll find her star quality. But Dad comes up with a crazy idea – he wants to move the family to Malawi where he wants to build a school. Daizy’s life is over. She does not want to swap her happy life to milk African goats. Her only hope is to win the Battle of the Bands or else it’s goodbye to her friends, sleepovers and, worst of all, custard doughnuts.

Stig of the Dump

By Clive King (Puffin Classics, R110) This children’s classic was first published in 1963, but has not lost its appeal. Everybody told Barney not to play near the edge of the chalk pit. But today was one of those grey days when there was nothing to do, no games to play and nowhere to go. Except to the chalk pit – the dump. And so Barney lands in a cave in the middle of the rubbish dump, and that’s when he meets Stig – a person with a lot of shaggy hair, two bright black eyes and who speaks in grunts. They learn to understand each other and together they raid the rubbish dump, improve Stig’s cave dwelling and enjoy a series of adventures.

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Scarlett Dedd – It’s a Grave Situation

By Cathy Brett

Time Riders – Day of the Predator

By Alex Scarrow

(Headline Book Publishing, R80) Despite the somewhat grim cover and storyline, this is actually a hilarious book for children aged 11 and up. To get out of a class trip, Scarlett accidentally kills herself by eating the wrong mushroom, and she takes her whole family with her. Scarlett’s biggest problem now is that none of her friends are dead, and neither is the boy she has a crush on. Left in limbo, bored to death and fearing her friendless state is terminal, an ominous idea pops into her head. Over her dead body will she be ignored, but can Scarlett really execute such a plan?

(Puffin Books, R106) This is the second book in the very popular Time Riders series. Liam O’Connor should have died at sea in 1912. Maddy Carter should have died on a plane in 2010. Sal Vikram should have died in a fire in 2026. Yet they don’t and are recruited by an agency with only one purpose – to fix broken history, because time travel is a reality, and there are those who would go back in time and change the past. That’s why the Time Riders exist: to protect us. To stop time travel from destroying the world… This is a spectacular thriller for children nine to 11.

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books

for preteens and teens best read

Otto – The Autobiography of a Teddy Bear

By Tomi Ungerer

(Phaidon Press, R158) At first glance this may look like a book for a very young child, but the message within is aimed at the preteen.

David, Oskar and Otto the teddy bear are best friends.

They share everything and get up to all sorts of pranks.

But one day David comes home wearing a yellow star, and soon after he and his family are taken away in a truck. Otto and Oskar are left alone. When the war breaks out Otto loses Oskar and the teddy bear’s adventure begins. He makes friends with a soldier, travels to America and finds himself in the strangest places, but in spite of all this Otto never forgets his childhood friends. Recommended for children aged nine to 12.

Madame Pamplemousse and the Time-travelling Café

By Rupert Kingfisher (Bloomsbury Publishing, R78) This is the irresistible follow up to Madame Pamplemousse and Her Incredible Edibles. When an evil new government threatens to destroy Paris, Madeleine’s friend, Madame Pamplemousse, mysteriously disappears. For her own safety, Madeleine is guided to the Café of Lost Time. Monsieur Moutarde, who has made the most remarkable discovery, owns the café. He has invented a time-travel machine, cunningly disguised as an espresso maker. Soon Madeleine, Madame Pamplemousse and her cat, Camembert, are on the run through time to capture the drool of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a tear from the Sphinx, vital ingredients for a tonic that will revive the ailing spirit of Paris.

for us Why Africa is Poor

By Greg Mills (Penguin Books, R220) Economic growth does not demand a secret formula. There are good development examples abound in East Asia and further afield in other parts of Asia and Central America.

But why then has Africa failed to realise its potential in half a century of independence?

This book demonstrates that Africa is poor not because the world has denied the continent the market and financial means to compete. Stomping across the continent and the developing world in search of the answer, Greg Mills controversially shows that the main reason why Africa’s people are poor is because their leaders have made this choice.

Don’t Vote! It Just Encourages the Bastards

By P.J. O’Rourke (Grove Press, R168) From a man the Wall Street Journal has called “the funniest writer in America” comes a brilliant, disturbing, hilarious and ultimately sobering look at why politics and politicians are a necessary evil, but only just barely necessary. O’Rourke, an American political satirist, writer and journalist, looks at the financial crisis, climate change, the Family of Nations, terrorism, the free market and the Marxist class struggle.

His take on the pathetic nature of politics will have you laughing through your tears.

O’Rourke doesn’t mince his words, so this one is not for the sensitive reader.

Private Life

By Jane Smiley (Faber and Faber, R172) From the author of the Pulitzer Prize-winner A Thousand Acres, comes another beautifully crafted and powerful novel. Margaret is considered nearly an old maid at 27 when she marries Captain Andrew Jackson Jefferson Early. He’s the most famous man their Missouri town has ever produced: a naval officer and an astronomer; a genius who, according to the local paper, has changed the universe. Margaret’s mother calls the match “a piece of luck”. Yet Andrew confounds Margaret’s expectations from the moment their train leaves for his naval base in San Francisco. Private Life is a portrait of marriage and the mysteries that endure even in lives lived side by side.

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May 2011

must have

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for us

The Cookbook for Families

By Maria Findt and Sarah de Lange

The Importance of Being a Bachelor

By Mike Gayle

(Self-published, R135) The inspiration for this cookbook originated from discussions between moms and their sharing of recipes and ideas for family meal times. In the book you will find family favourites, recipes that have been passed down through the years, and other new and creative concoctions. These are dishes that families love and that children devour.

Wholesome, delicious, quick and easy to make, the recipes are a mix of South African dishes and traditional European cuisine. (R5 from the sale of each book goes to The African Children’s Feeding Scheme.) For more info on where to get the book, visit thecookbookforfamilies.co.za

(Hodder & Stoughton, R110) George and Joan Bachelor are the proud (albeit slightly disappointed) parents of three grown-up boys whose lives aren’t quite what they had hoped for. Adam is addicted to TWKGs (the wrong kind of girls); Luke bears the scars of a savage divorce; and “baby” Russell’s love life contains nothing but heartache. When George Bachelor, months shy of his 40th wedding anniversary, announces he’s leaving to try his hand at the single life, everything is thrown into turmoil. For the first time, the boys have to sort out their parents’ lives, or face losing the one thing they could always count on.

This is a funny novel about family and love.

parenting books Children need Grandparents

By Anne Cawood

for ol der folk

(Metz Press, R123) Life does not end when your children leave home and create their own families – it just enters a new and challenging era. Dipping into her extended case files, parenting expert and grandmother of four, Anne Cawood, gives sage advice for grandparents starting or already in this phase of their lives. Grandparents play a vital role in the lives of the new generation – both their own children and their grandchildren. In the modern world of technological development, instant communication and fast travel, there is still no replacement for the care, love and support of the extended family in the circle of life where grandparents are the vital link between past and future.

Your Baby & Child

By Penelope Leach (Dorling Kindersley Publishers, R315) This is one of the world’s best-selling guides to childcare and development, completely revised and updated. From your baby’s first days of life to her first days at school, Leach guides you through the baby, toddler and preschool years with authority and understanding. Her insights into a child’s thoughts and needs, and her confidence-inspiring, down-to-earth approach have made this book a classic. Often dubbed the Dr Spock of our age, Leach’s book has also won the BMA Popular Medical Book Award. Your Baby & Child has sold over three million copies.

Raising Boys

By Steve Biddulph (Celestial Arts, R120) This is the third edition of the million-copy, worldwide bestseller. The author shares practical tips and insights into how boys’ minds work and how to raise them to be happy, confident, kind and safe. The expanded new edition includes the three stages of boyhood – birth to six years old, six to 14 and 14 to adult – and just what is going on in a boy’s mind at each stage. The author also looks at testosterone, how boys develop differently from girls, the five essentials that fathers provide and much more. Biddulph is one of the world’s best-known psychologists and his books are in almost four million homes worldwide. magazine joburg

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calendar

what’s on in may

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

Here’s your line-up of all the best things to do in Johannesburg to beat the winter blues. Compiled by GILLIAN HURST

6 fri

special events

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FUN for children

71

only for parents

77

bump, baby & tot in tow

80

how to help

81

SPECIAL EVENTS

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FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Play with a lion cub Little ones can touch the wild at The Lion Park.

Absolute 80s Take a musical journey through this decade.

Push me Fit New moms and their babies can exercise together.

FreeMe Bits and pieces from your home can help animals in distress.

May 2011

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

The Cradle Festival A new event on the Gauteng calendar with loads of family fun.

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May 2011

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calendar

6 friday

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 sunday Barry Hilton – Charmed and Dangerous Enjoy a side-splitting show as Barry violates the laws of normality with his audacious wit.

His unrehearsed performances ensure he remains on the top of the “Most Wanted” list at venues nationwide. Time: 8:30pm. Venue: The Lyric Theatre, Gold Reef City Casino.

Cost: R150. Book through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit computicket.com Country Food, Book and Toy Fayre Have a relaxing day out at Uncle Tim’s Cabin and browse through the numerous stalls selling handmade teddy bears, DIY teddy kits, collectible dolls, books, craft supplies, homemade biscuits, chocolates and much more. Wine and dine under the trees, while a live band plays your

6 May – Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Roderick Rules

favourite tunes. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Uncle Tim’s Cabin, 40 High Rd, Brentwood Park. Cost: free entry. For more info: 011 967 1816 or visit uncletimscentre.co.za The Rand Show Catch the last couple of days of this iconic event. The show has been rejuvenated to offer real family entertainment. Enjoy the funfair rides, a circus, Lipizzaners and live music. Ends 2 May. Time: 10am–8pm (ticket sales close at 6pm). Venue: Nasrec, cnr of Rand Show and Nasrec Rds, Nasrec. Cost: adults R75, children aged 6–16 R20, children under 6 enter free. For more info: 011 476 7031

2 monday 1 May – Country Food, Book and Toy Fayre

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Traumeel Wally Hayward marathon This is the last Comrades Marathon qualifier for 2011, with races for all ages and fitness

levels. Distances are 42,2km, 21,1km, 10km, a 5km fun run, and a 1km run for children aged 2 and older. Walkers are welcome to pay tribute to the Comrades legend Wally Hayward. Time: from 6:30am.

Venue: Zwartkop High School, Mopani Rd, Centurion. Cost: R20–R70. For the 1km race, donate a can of pet food for the Tshwane SPCA. Contact: 012 654 8077, 082 781 4357 or info@acrw.co.za

4 wednesday Crazy Diamond – A Tribute to Pink Floyd This is a two-hour musical journey exploring the history of this iconic band. South African star Mel Botes plays the lead. Ends 8 May. Time: 8:30pm. Venue: 64@The Palace, Emperor’s Palace, 64 Jones Rd, Kempton Park.

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

Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Roderick Rules Greg Heffley, the boy who made being a “wimp” cool is on our screens in a wonderful family comedy based on the bestselling novels of Jeff Kinney. Greg and his older brother (and chief tormentor), Roderick, must deal with their parents’ misguided attempts to make them bond.

Time: varies. Venue: at cinemas nationwide The Cradle Festival This is a brand new star on the Gauteng calendar. The festival is jam-packed with lots of exciting performances, activities, competitions, sporting events and hours of fun for the whole family. The well-equipped children’s area and daily programme offers parents peace of mind. Ends 15 May. Time: varies.

Venue: Cradle of Humankind heritage site.

Cost: adults R100, children R70. For more info visit cradlefestival.co.za

7 saturday ScopeX Expect a large variety of telescopes, accessories, books, exhibitions of selfmade telescopes, sun dials, astro-photos, telescope-making, science shows, an auction, rocket displays and camera obscura lectures. Bring a picnic for the star party at 5pm and tour the night skies with a telescope. Time: 9am–9pm. Venue: Museum of Military History, next to the Johannesburg Zoo. Cost: adults R22, senior citizens and children up to 18 R11. For more info: 082 650 8002 or lerika@icon.co.za

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8 sunday Mama Mia with the Lipizzaners The Lipizzaners present two performances on Mother’s Day. The stallions dance to the music from Mama Mia! Lunch is available for those wanting to make a day of it.

After the performance you can meet the riders and feed the stallions carrots. Time: 10:30am and 2:30pm. Venue: 1 Dahlia Rd, Kyalami. Cost: R110 from Computicket, R100 at the door. For more info: 011 702 2103 or 082 457 9725

Mother’s Day Concert at the Johannesburg Zoo Pack a picnic basket and blanket for Talk Radio 702 and the Johannesburg Zoo’s annual event. The Johannesburg Festival Orchestra performs a range of timeless classics as well as a selection of current tunes under the experienced baton of orchestra leader and conductor Richard Cock. Time: 9am–3pm.

Venue: The Johannesburg Zoo bandstand, Upper Park Dr, Forest Town. Cost: R21.

Contact Sandra: 011 646 2000

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Mother’s Day Breakfast Cruise This package includes a cruise, hot English breakfast as well as confectionary treats such as croissants, muffins and crumpets along with juice, coffee and tea. Venue: Stonehaven on Vaal, next to Baddrift Bridge, Sylviavale, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: adults R210, children 12 and younger R65; a cash bar is available on board. For more info: 016 982 2951/2 or visit stonehaven.co.za

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11 wednesday Defending the Caveman Alan Committie stars in the all-time favourite “date comedy” that explores the reasons why men don’t like to ask for directions and why girls need so much cupboard space. Ends 5 June. Time: Wednesday–Friday 8pm, Saturday 3pm and 8pm, 11 May – Defending the Caveman Sunday 3pm. Venue: Pieter Toerien Main Theatre, 12 thursday Montecasino, cnr William Nicol Dr and The Baby Expo Mama Magic Get the Witkoppen Rd, Fourways. Cost: R150. Book most recent information about motherhood through Computicket: 083 915 8000 or visit from some of SA’s finest speakers and computicket.com explore all the retail opportunities. Barney Kairos School of Inquiry open day The makes an appearance and there is a number school emphasises creative, curious and of children’s entertainment areas. Feeding, cooperative inquiry. Children achieve a deep bottle-warming and nappy-change stations and broad understanding of all subjects. available. Stand the chance to win a Time: 11 May 6pm–7pm and 28 May R150 000 all-expenses paid pregnancy 9:30am–10:30am. Venue: 34 Lurgan Rd, prize. Ends 15 May. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: Parkview. Contact: 082 040 4714, marice@ Coca Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd kairosschool.co.za or visit kairosschool.co.za and Olievenhout Ave, North Riding. Cost: WALE 4.0 – Wits Arts and Literature adults R60, children under 10 free. For Experience This festival brings engaging more info visit: thebabyexpo.co.za and accessible arts programmes to all Gautengers. There is an opening parade, world-class music and literature, cuttingedge dance and theatre, film screenings, exhibitions, seminars and workshops. Ends 14 May. Time, venue and cost: varies. For more info: visit wale.co.za

13 friday Special Mother’s Day Me fun cooking class is vegetable cannelloni dessert. Time: 5pm–7pm.

Mommy and On the menu and a simple Venue: The

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12 thu

St Andrew’s School for Girls open day Experience what makes this school different. Meet the teachers and enjoy tours of the facilities. Time: preschool 9am–11am (entrance in Johnson Rd), junior school: 11am–3pm (entrance in Johnson and Milner Rd). Contact: 011 453 9408 or visit standrews.co.za

Tastebud Cooking Studio, 3 Waterford Place, Witkoppen Rd, Fourways. Cost: R400 for mom and daughter; includes drinks and your completed dishes to take home.

Contact Nicola: 082 331 9987 or visit tastebudstudio.co.za

14 saturday Bryandale fun day Enjoy this event at the Bryandale Primary School with a mini walk offered around the school grounds.

Explore the tea gardens, fun stalls, scratch patch, playball, a golfing corner, crafters’ market, inflatables and plenty of food and refreshments. Time: 8am–12:30pm.

Venue: Bryandale School, Cumberland Ave, Bryanston. Cost: free entry. Contact: joan. griebenow@bryandaleprimary.co.za The Gauteng Koi Show This is the largest koi show in the southern hemisphere with over 60 koi ponds on display. You can buy koi, pumps, air pumps, filter systems, air stones and more. Ends 15 May. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: The Brightwater Commons, Republic Rd, Randfontein. Cost: adults R20, children R10. Contact: 011 433 2665 or visit koisa.co.za

25 wednesday Standard Bank Fine Brandy Festival Now in its fourth year, adults can again savour some of the best brandies South Africa has to offer. Enjoy everything from internationally-acclaimed champion brandies, new product launches and a chillout lounge to cutting-edge men’s fashion, super cars and brandy-enhancing food. Ends 27 May. Time: 5pm–9pm; no entry after 8:30pm. Venue: The Sandton Convention Centre. Cost: R195; includes a brandy glass and beverage voucher. Contact: 021 882 8954 or visit brandyfestival.co.za

20 friday The Grand Designs Live Home & Garden Show For anyone with an interest in interiors, building, kitchens, gardens, bathrooms, shopping and delicious food.

The show provides you with plenty of ideas to make your dream home a reality.

Professionals in the industry are showcasing the latest trends and technologies. Ends 22 May. Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: Coca Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, North Riding. Cost: adults R80, children under 16 free. For more info: visit granddesignslive.co.za

21 saturday Deutsche Internationale Schule Bazaar The Deutsche Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) is celebrating its annual bazaar.

Come and enjoy genuine German food, eisbein, bratwurst and much more. There is a German beer tent and entertainment for all ages. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: 11 Sans Souci Rd, Parktown. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 011 726 6220, dsj@dsjmail.co.za or visit dsj.co.za

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25 May – Standard Bank Fine Brandy Festival

27 friday Future Ed – The Education Show Provides opportunities for suppliers of educational products and services to showcase their wares, while providing parents and teachers with a chance to touch, test and interact with them. See the classroom of the future and attend workshops and seminars. Ends 29 May. Friday 9am–6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am–5pm. Venue: Coca Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, North Riding. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit futureed.co.za Romeo and Juliet The South African Ballet Theatre keeps the spirit of Valentine’s Day magazine joburg

alive well into May, with the full-length, three-act ballet of this tragic love story, Romeo and Juliet. Ends 19 June. Time 3pm and 8pm. Venue: The Nelson Mandela Theatre, Braamfontein. Cost: R105–R270.

Contact: 011 877 6898, 0861 670 670, visit saballettheatre.co.za or joburgtheatre. com to book

27 May – Romeo and Juliet

28 saturday Logwood Country Festival This annual event offers live music, food stalls, a beer tent and loads of activities for children such as camel rides and jumping castles. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: Plot 100, Sunset Dr, Muldersdrift. Cost: tbc. For more info: visit logwoodvillage.co.za Sasol Birds and Birding Fair This is the biggest exhibition of its kind in southern Africa and focuses on cultivating bird lovers and the enjoyment of nature. Join them for demonstrations and guided bird walks at the Johannesburg Zoo. There is also a children’s play area and activities. Ends 29 May. Time: 8:30am–5:30pm. Venue: The Johannesburg Zoo, Upper Park Dr, Forest Town. Cost: adults R50, pensioners and children 3–12 years R30. Contact: 0861 BIRDER (247337) or 011 789 1122 The Oyster, Wine & Food Festival South Africa’s second largest oyster festival is back. Prepare to eat your fill of 24 000 oysters. Food lovers can sample other treats such as cheese, wine and olives. Live music performances add to the festive mood.

Ends 29 May. Time: Saturday 8am–6pm, Sunday 9am–3pm. Venue: The Brightwater Commons, Republic Rd, Randburg. Cost: free entry but a minimal cost applies to various tastings. For more info: 011 789 5052 or visit brightwatercommons.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN

art, culture and science Artjamming Art classes for children aged 6–12. Time: 4:30pm–6pm, every Monday and Thursday. Venue: Blubird Shopping Centre, cnr Athol–Oaklands Rd and Fort St, Athol and Lonehill Centre, Lonehill Boulevard. Cost: R950 per term (approximately 10 lessons). Contact: 011 465 5778 or visit artjamming.co.za Children’s art corner Serendipity offers a full range of art and craft activities, from creating racing cars with boudoir biscuits, cupcakes and gingerbread-man decorating to painting and beading. DIY kits range from helicopters to princess plus bug kits and funky finger puppets. Open Tuesday to Sunday. Time: weekdays 9am–5pm, weekends 8am–5pm. Venue: Serendipity, 48 Keyes Ave, Rosebank. Cost: R45 for the first child, R35 for the second child and R30 for each additional child. Adults enter free. Contact: 011 447 7386 or serendipityplay@gmail.com Colour Café Ceramic studio where you can paint mugs, plates, teapots or bowls.

Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Shop 14, Hyde Square Shopping Centre, cnr North Rd and Jan Smuts Ave. Cost: R95 per hour; includes paint, firing and glazing. Ceramic items are charged separately. Contact: 011 341 0734 or visit colorcafe.co.za Engenius Academy Term two starts this month with eight weeks of Lego education and fun. 9 May–1 July. Time: Monday “Simply machine 2” 2:30pm–3:30pm and “We do 2” 3:30pm–4:30pm, Tuesday “Mechanical systems 1” 2:30pm–3:30pm and “Mechanical systems 2” 4pm–5pm, Wednesday “Robotics 1” 2:30pm–3:30pm and “Robotics 2” 4pm–5pm, Thursday “Simple machines 1” 2:30pm–3:30pm and “We do 1” 3:30pm–4:30pm, Friday “Mech systems” 12:30pm–3:30pm and “Mech systems 2” 4pm–5pm, Saturday “Robotics 1” 9am–11am, “Robotics 2” 11:30am–1:30pm, “Robotics 3” 2pm–4pm.

Venue: Engenius Toys, Fourways Mall, Witkoppen Rd, Sandton. Cost: varies.

Contact: 011 465 5386, 083 625 8788 or stuart.windram@engeniustoys.co.za Little Picasso art workshop Painting, collage, drawing, sculpture and so much more. Lots of creative learning and fun for children aged 2–15. Time: 2pm–3pm, every Wednesday. Venue: 38 Sonderend St, Helderkrein. Cost: R250 per month, all materials included. Contact Lisa: 083 306 3134 or littlepicasso1@gmail.com

29 sunday SPCA Dog Walk and Family Fun Day Pack up your dogs and family for a fun day with stalls, food, lots for children to do and many prizes up for grabs. Time: 10am until late. Venue: Aurora Private School, Taurus Rd, Sundowner, Randburg. Cost: R20 per adult pre-sale, R25 for adults at the door, children enter free. Contact Nicole: 083 458 7704, Claudia: 074 157 3466 or fundraiser@spca–rbg.org.za magazine joburg

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Seedpod Studio

Seedpod Studio This studio focuses on arty crafts, including ceramics, decoupage, mixed media and mosaics. It’s easy to get creative in this stimulating environment.

The training and workshop environment is a great place for children and adults to have loads of fun. Open daily. Times: Monday– Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 9am–3pm.

Venue: Broadacres Garden Centre, cnr Cedar and Valley Rds, Fourways. Cost: R60 per hour, plus materials. Contact: 011 465 0375 or visit seedpodstudio.com Smudge Fun, creative art activities including painting, drawing, sculpting, moulding, beading, sticking, handprints, mosaic; all supervised by qualified artists.

There is also a music room, dress-up room and a coffee shop for parents. Time: Tuesday–Friday 10am–5pm, Saturday 10am–4pm, Sunday 10am–1pm. Venue: 21A, Valley Centre, 396 Jan Smuts Ave,

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Craighall Park. Cost: R110 for the first hour, R55 for every hour thereafter; includes all art materials. Contact: 011 501 0234 or visit smudgeart.co.za Space travel Travel with Thomas the Astronomer in his giant rocket, to the game reserve, then onwards to the moon and beyond. For children 5–8 years old.

Time: 10:30am, every Saturday. Venue: Johannesburg Planetarium, Empire Rd, Parktown. Cost: R20. Contact: 011 717 1390 or visit planetarium.co.za Warhammer workshops A creative opportunity for children aged 6–15 years to learn to play Warhammer, a strategy game played on a tabletop. Building and painting their own models encourages children to pay attention to detail and develop fine motor skills. 1 May. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Warfare, 35 Langermann Dr, Kensington. Cost: R50. Contact Fabio: 082 431 2242 or fabiocosta@iburst.co.za

if two of your children are booked for the same workshop R280 per workshop per child. Booking essential. Contact: 083 321 4222, sam@samshealthspot.co.za or visit samshealthspot.co.za FasTracKids music Children dance, sing, pretend, and share their love for music. As they engage in the programme, they improve their memory, cognitive development, learning skills and their ability to express emotion. The curriculum is focused on preparing children for formal music lessons while still having a fun, positive experience. For children aged 4–6 years. Time: 3pm–4pm, every Thursday.

Venue: FasTracKids, Shop 7, Broadacres Shopping Centre. Cost: R680 per month.

Contact: 011 467 0230

classes, talks and workshops Empower your child This workshop helps to boost your child’s self-esteem by teaching them essential life skills. The course trains your child to deal with emotions and stress and gives them the tools to create a powerful, fulfilled reality. 5–7 year olds 10 May, 8–10 year olds 11 May, 11–12 year olds 12 May. Time: 2:30pm–4:30pm.

Venue: Hedgehog Lane, The Garden, 278 Main Rd, Bryanston. Cost: one workshop R320, upfront for three workshops R900,

Empower your child at Hedgehog Lane

Growing Gourmet Cooking classes for children. “Mixing it up” for children 3–6 years old Wednesday–Friday 2:30pm –3:30pm and Saturday 9am–10am. “Chefs in training” for children 7–10 years old every second Tuesday 11am–12pm. Also a special workshop to make treats for Mother’s Day: 8 May 11am–12pm. Venue: Crazy Kidz Farmyard, Daniel St, Daniel Brink Park, Randburg. Cost: R90 per workshop, Mother’s Day workshop R150. Contact: 071 510 7019 or ggstudio@vodamail.co.za Helen O’Grady Drama Academy Classes to encourage students aged 5–18 to develop confidence as well as communication and performance skills. These provide good preparation for growing up in today’s competitive world. Students are divided into three age groups; lower primary 5–8 years, upper primary 9–12 years and youth theatre 13–18 years. Time: weekly classes are held in the afternoons. Venue: locations across Johannesburg. Cost: R580 per term.

Contact Juliet: 0861 000 557, juliet@ helenogrady.co.za or visit dramaafrica.com Jungle Tots Enjoy a fun-filled morning with your 2 to 3 year old or your 3 to 4 year old with a range of quality, educational indoor and outdoor equipment. Branches throughout Gauteng. For more info: visit jungletots.co.za Little Cooks Club This programme is designed to encourage healthy eating habits. Classes allow moms and tots to create wholesome meals. Venues: Rivonia,

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Little Cooks Club

Fourways, Fairland, Mondeor and Edenvale/ Bedfordview. Contact Christine: 083 556 3434, christine@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za Supakids is a fun, after-school programme for children aged 4−12 to enhance selfesteem and improve social skills. The programme includes a number of fun activities that focus on recognising strengths and weaknesses; setting realistic goals; understanding emotions and how to express them; respect and tolerance for others; dealing with teasing/bullying; problem solving; communication skills as

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well as learning independence and selfmotivation. New groups start this month.

Venue: Sandton Psychology Centre.

Contact Robynne: 011 234 0421, 011 024 2742 or visit sandtonpsychologists.co.za The Social Skills Academy “Healthy Self Esteem – Healthy Relationships” is a workshop for teens and adults. Topics include listening and communication skills, forgiveness, and the art of valuing the self are covered over two days. Learn about how self-esteem is the core of all relationships.

7–8 May. Time: 9am–12:30pm. Venue: The Social Skills Academy, River Club, Sandton.

Cost: single R980, family or couple R850.

For more info: visit socialskills.co.za Top Tots A specialist developed this programme with all aspects of a child’s development in mind. The activities are all age-appropriate, catering for infants and toddlers up to 4 years of age. Dates and times vary. Venues: Boksburg, Parktown North, Honeydew, Bedfordview, Woodmead, Bryanston, Alberton, Benoni, Fairlands, Modderfontein and Glenvista.

For more info: visit toptots.co.za Tots n Pots Baking workshops for children aged 2–10. They can have lots of fun and try new recipes while learning about healthy eating. Dates and times vary.

Venues: Norscot Manor Recreation Centre, Fourways and Randburg. Cost: R90 per lesson or R840 for 10 lessons. Contact Janine: 072 086 6213, janine@totsnpots. com or visit totsnpots.com

family outings Emerald Resort and Casino Nestled on the banks of the Vaal River you can enjoy a world of water activities in the large Aquadome, games facilities with tenpin bowling and Lego building, a small zoo and several restaurants. Venue: 777 Frikkie Meyer Boulevard, Vanderbijlpark. Contact: 016 982 8000 or visit emeraldcasino.co.za Hyundai Balloon at Montecasino This is the largest helium balloon on the continent.

It can carry a maximum of 30 people, and rises high above the Fourways landscape.

It is tied to earth with an underground cable, which is released slowly. Balloon rides last 15 minutes and offer panoramic views of Johannesburg, Sandton, Northcliff Hill and the Magaliesberg range. Time: Sunday–Thursday 8am–8pm, Friday and Saturday 8am–11pm. Venue: Montecasino, Fourways. Cost: adults R70, children under 10 R45, sunrise and sunset trips R150, including sparkling wine. Contact: 011 511 0290 or visit aerialdisplays.co.za Stonehaven Sunday Buffet Cruise A two-hour cruising experience where you can enjoy a three-course buffet as you journey down the Vaal River. After the meal, you can relax on the top deck in sun loungers or in a jacuzzi. Time: 1pm–3pm, every Sunday. Venue: Stonehaven on Vaal, next to Baddrift Bridge, Sylviavale, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: adults R210, children 12 and under R65; a cash bar is available on board. Contact: 016 982 2951/2

Mommy & Me cooking classes The Taste Bud Cooking Studio offers a treat for moms, grans and even dads to spend one-on-one, quality time with their children in the kitchen. Why not come and let your child “teach” you how to cook and have some messy fun in the kitchen? Give them a chance to be head chef for the day and watch as they enjoy the fun, tactile experience and eat the fruits of their labour. Time: 7 May 2pm–4pm, 21 May 9:30am–11am.

Venue: 3 Waterford Place (near St Peters), Witkoppen Rd, Fourways.

Contact Nicola: 082 331 9987 or visit tastebudstudio.co.za

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Icon Iconoclast An exhibition of work by Beezy Bailey. The artist captures the iconic figure of Nelson Mandela with wit and the irreverence of a genuine iconoclast. Inspired by Andy Warhol’s silkscreen images of icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Mick Jagger and Mao Zedong. There is no greater icon than our own Nelson Mandela and Bailey’s work is a reflection of this. 5 May. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Everard Read Gallery, 6 Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank. Contact: 011 788 4805 or visit everard-read.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Acrobranch Children can test their balance, strength and focus by going from tree to tree doing fun exercises. Children are strapped to a harness. Time: weekends and public holidays 9am–5pm. Venue: James and Ethel Gray Park, Melrose St Extension, Melrose. Cost: adults R150, children 7–11 R100, children 3–7 R70.

Contact: 078 438 7463, info@acrobranch. co.za or visit acrobranch.co.za Cats of the jungle In honour of Biodiversity Day, the zoo is hosting Race Against Extinction, a non-profit organisation that is giving two talks on the threats to these amazing animals and the role of zoos in trying to preserve and conserve these cats. The activities for children include a treasure hunt and face painting. 22 May. Time: 10am–4pm.

Venue: Lory Park Zoo, 180 Kruger Rd, President Park, Midrand. Cost: adults R55, children 2–12 years R35. Contact: 011 315 7307 or info@lorypark.co.za Chameleon Village Reptile Park Anacondas, cobras and diamond-back rattlers are just a few of the venomous creatures you can see. There are also a host of activities for children such as jungle gyms and jumping castles. Time: 8:30am­ –5pm. Venue: N4, Hartbeespoort.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 012 253 1451 or visit chameleonvillage.co.za Feeding crocodiles Every Saturday and Sunday the public can view the feeding of the crocodiles. On Sunday you can also attend a venomous snake show and get the opportunity to touch a puff adder.

Time: 9am–4:30pm, feeding times 2pm, snake show 10:30am. Venue: Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park, plot 59 on the Old Pretoria Rd, Nietgedacht, Fourways.

Cost: adults R55, children under 12 R30. Contact: 083 657 7561, 083 321 1016 or visit croccity.co.za

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Lion Park The park is home to many lions, including white ones. You can play with cubs, feed the giraffe, enjoy a game ride and visit the restaurant. Time: Monday– Friday 8:30am–5pm, Saturday–Sunday 8:30am–6pm. Venue: cnr Malibongwe and R114, Lanseria. Cost: adults R115, children R80. Contact: 011 691 9905, lionpark@ cknet.co.za or visit lion-park.com Mystic Monkeys and Feathers Wildlife Park Only 45 minutes north of Pretoria, this wildlife park is set in beautiful gardens with water features and koi ponds. You’ll see white lions, tigers and cheetahs as well as other exotic creatures like macaws and sloths. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: 3 Buffelsdrift, Rust de Winter, Limpopo (near the Carousel Casino and Entertainment World). Cost: adults R100, children R50.

Contact: 012 521 0335, 012 723 0315 or visit mysticmonkeysandfeathers.co.za

markets Antique & Collectible Market and Craft Market Browse a large number of stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to ornaments, furniture and books.

8 May. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: Uncle Tim’s Cabin, 40 High Rd, Brentwood Park. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 967 1816 or visit uncletimscentre.co.za Bagpipes, haggis and Highland dancing Celebrate a day of Scottish fun, food and festivities with pipe bands, dancing, a craft market, a food court and drinks. 28 May. Time: 9am–4pm.

Feed giraffes at Lion Park

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Venue: De La Salle Holy Cross College, Victory Park, Randburg. Cost: adults R25, children R15. Contact: 083 448 4046 or rosemary@ innervation.co.za Cedar Square Fresh Market You can wander down the many aisles and shop for fresh organic produce.

Entertainment for the little ones is also available.

Time: 10am–2pm, every Saturday. Venue: Cedar Square, cnr Willow and Uranium Rds, Fourways. Cost: free entry. For more info: visit cedarsquare.co.za Jozi Food Market Experience a mixture of culture and gourmet delights at this market where each vendor offers their own speciality produce. Time: 8:30am–1pm, every Saturday. Venue: Pirates Sports Club, Fourth Ave Ext, Parkhurst. Cost: free entry.

For more info: visit jozifoodmarket.co.za

Jozi Food Market

Organic and wholesome market Some of the products on offer include fresh organic vegetables, freshly baked natural bread, sweet delicacies, biltong, quiches, Serbian delights, tasty Indian and Thai curries and more. Time: 9am–3pm, every Thursday. Venue: Killarney Mall, 60 Riviera Rd, Killarney. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 646 4657 or visit killarneymall.co.za Rooftop Market Over 600 stalls offer quality clothing, ceramics, art and crafts, handcrafted items from all over Africa, furniture, jewellery, and an array of culinary delights. Time: 9am–5pm, every Sunday. Venue: upper level, Mall of Rosebank, Cradock Ave, Rosebank. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 442 4488 or info@ craft.co.za Stoneridge Moonlight Market Enjoy live music, great food and a wide variety of stalls with art and crafts, knick-knacks and tasty treats as you shop by moonlight.

Jumping castles, balloon artists and face painters keep the children busy while you browse. There is a wide selection of restaurants and eateries open for dinner.

Last Friday of the month. Time: 5pm–9pm.

Cost: free entry. Contact Annamarié: 011 452 5721, annamarie@stoneridge.co.za or visit stoneridge.co.za magazine joburg

Bagpipes, haggis and Highland dancing

on stage and screen Absolute 80s The Barnyard Theatre is ready to take you on a funky, hip and trendy musical journey through the ’80s.

The evening is centred around a school reunion and your host, the headmistress, takes you through this fun voyage back in time. 29 May. Time: 8pm and 2pm. Venue: The Barnyard Theatre, shop L205, Cresta Mall, Randburg. Cost: R70. Contact 011 280 4370 or visit barnyardtheatre.co.za Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Roderick Rules Greg Heffley, the boy who made being a “wimp” cool is on our screens in a wonderful family comedy based on the bestselling novels of Jeff Kinney. The Wimpy Kid books have sold 42 million copies so far. As he enters Grade 7, Greg and his older brother (and chief tormentor) Roderick must deal with their parents’ misguided attempts to make them bond.

Opens 6 May. Time: varies. Venue: at cinemas nationwide My Dream The show features a cast of talented performers under 18, who illustrate the creative potential that lies at the heart of every person, regardless of physical challenges imposed by disability.

The performers, with varying degrees of disability, impart their magic through dance and performance. 1 May. Time: 7:30pm.

Venue: Theatre of Marcellus, Emperor’s Palace. Cost: R95. Contact: 011 928 1297 Romeo and Juliet The South African Ballet Theatre brings you the saga of Romeo and Juliet. The story unfolds against a passionate vendetta between two families, with the grand vistas of the city of Verona supplying the backdrop. 27–29 May. Time: Friday 8pm, Saturday 3pm and 8pm, Sunday 8pm. Venue: Hoofd St, Braamfontein. Cost: varies. Contact: 011 877 6898 or visit saballettheatre.co.za Spice ‘n Stuff Written by Ashwin Singh and directed by Themi Venturas, this is a compelling mixture of comedy and drama, straight from successful runs at Durban’s Playhouse and Catalina theatres.

The production stars award-winning actress Shika Budhoo with Rory Booth, Ashwin Singh (the playwright), Dhaveshan Govender, Kajal Maharaj and Nthando Mncube. They play a variety of roles in this richly populated piece that vividly evokes the life and many-sided dynamics of the community it describes. Starts 31 May. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City. Cost: R120, students and pensioners R80. Contact: 011 883 8606 or book at theatreonthesquare.co.za May 2011

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The Crazy Scientist Starring the everpopular illusionist Vicus Cruywagen as the mad scientist, the show amazes the audience with feats of magic and entertains with hilarious humour. It is filled with audience interaction and variety in a laboratory of madness. 1 and 2 May. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: The Hippodrome, Gold Reef City, Northern Parkway, Ormonde.

Cost: theme park entry. Contact: 011 248 5000 or visitgoldreefcity.co.za

playtime and story time Bryanston Library Story time for children aged 2–6 years. Time: 2:30pm, every Wednesday. Venue: cnr New and Pyne St, Bryanston. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 706 3518

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Build-A-Bear Create your own teddy bear or stuffed animals. Open daily. Time: dependent on store. Venue: several in the Johannesburg area. For more info: visit buildabear.co.za Charity book sales There are several book sales on in May run by groups that support charities. 4, 6, 13, 18, 25, 27 and 28 May. Time: Monday–Friday 9am– 6pm and Saturday 9am–3pm.

Venue: Benmore Gardens Shopping Centre, cnr Grayston Dr and Benmore Rd, Benmore, Sandton. Contact: 011 884 6838 Larney Ladybirds New play days at this venue, every Wednesday. The cost includes bottomless tea/coffee and a slice of cake or muffin for adults and juice, crisps and a mini colouring-in book for children. Time: 10am–4pm. Cost: adults R25, children R15. Venue: Valley Rd, Broadacres.

Contact Bianca: 083 770 7702 Norscot Manor Library Story time for children aged 2–8 years. Time: 3pm–3:30pm, every Wednesday. Venue: 16B Penguin Dr, Norscot Manor. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 705 3323 Olivedale Library Story time for children 3–6 years. Time: 10am–11am, every Friday.

Venue: President Fouché Rd, Olivedale.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 462 6285/6 Serendipity’s story time Your little one is led through magical experiences as books come alive in front of them. Every Tuesday and Wednesday. Time: Tuesday (preschoolers) 11am and Wednesday 4pm for slightly older learners. Cost: R45 for the first child, R35 for the second child and R30 for each additional child. Adults enter free. Contact: 011 447 7386 or serendipityplay@gmail.com Words Bookstore Enjoy a cup of coffee, read a book and let the children enjoy the

play area. Ten percent off all children’s books on a Saturday and Sunday and story time can be arranged. Time: 7am–6:30pm.

Venue: Health Emporium, cnr Church and Market St, Midrand. Contact: 011 315 3801 or maria@wordsbookstore.co.za

sports and physical activities Be aMazed Get lost in a maze, set within a growing maize field. It involves finding the eight major habitats of the world and endangered animals. Saturday and Sunday.

Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: 82 Boland St (off Beyers Naudé Dr), Honeydew. Cost: adults

Bend It Like Beauty Ben Voss is back with his razorsharp, motormouth alter-ego, Beauty Ramapelepele. As the gap between Africa and the West widens, socialite and Businesswoman of the Year, Beauty, is torn between the capitalist trappings of western society and the familiar traditions of her home, South Africa.

With acidic honesty, she dishes out her verdict on her trip to the United Kingdom and what it is like to be a South African abroad. 3–21 May. Time: 8:15pm. Venue: Theatre on the Square, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City.

Cost: R120, students and pensioners R80. Contact: 011 883 8606 or book at theatreonthesquare.co.za

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R60, children R55, family ticket for four R200. For more info: 010 222 0075 or visit honeydewmazes.co.za Jozi–X Extreme fun-park suitable for children aged 4 and over. Open seven days a week. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: cnr Main Rd and Sloane St, Bryanston. Cost: varies. Contact Marco: 082 456 2358 or visit jozix.co.za Kids’ Bike Track Serendipity caters for energetic youngsters. Their newly launched bike track offers lots of fun for speedsters, while mom and dad relax over coffee or lunch. Open Tuesday to Sunday.

Time: 9am–5pm weekdays, 8am–5pm

Sheperd’s Fold Pony Camp

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Saturday. Venue: Serendipity, 48 Keyes Ave, Rosebank. Cost: R45 for the first child, R35 for the second child and R30 for each additional child. Adults enter free.

Contact: 011 447 7386 or serendipityplay@ gmail.com Shepherd’s Fold Pony Camp Activities include riding lessons, outrides, handson care for horses, lectures and games for all levels of riders. All instructors are experienced teachers. Venue: Shepherd’s Fold Stables, 55 Sunset Dr, Elandsdrift, Muldersdrift. For dates, times and cost, contact Belinda: 084 220 2657 or visit shepherdsfoldstables.co.za Tenpin Bowling This bowling arena caters for families and groups, including team-building. Time: Monday­ –Thursday 12pm–midnight, Friday 12pm–2am, Saturday and school holidays 10am–2am, Sunday 10am–midnight. Venue: The Magic Company, Montecasino, Fourways. Cost: R35. Contact: 011 511 0124 Yeesh! Fun for kids Supervised softplay indoor playgrounds with coffee bars.

Time: Tuesday–Sunday 9am–5pm. Venue: Unit G6, Woodmead Commercial Park, Waterval Crescent, Woodmead and 5 Main Rd, Bryanston. Cost: R40 per hour. Contact Woodmead: 083 923 2306, Bryanston: 073 230 6531 or visit yeesh.co.za Yoga for kids Classes for children and toddlers to increase their flexibility and strength. Booking is essential. Time: 3:15pm–5pm, every Tuesday. Venue: Triba,

Yoga for kids

39 St Albans Ave, Craighall Park. Contact Andrea: 073 651 2088

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Art Therapy workshops These workshops combine art and psychotherapy and involve the use of different art materials (such as paint, clay, crayon and collage) through which you can express, explore and gain a deeper understanding of thoughts and feelings in the presence of a trained art therapist. No art skill is necessary

in order to participate in the course. Fees may be claimed back from medical aid after the sessions. For more information on upcoming course dates, application forms and bookings contact Samantha: 011 786 3212, 083 326 6655, arttherapysa@ gmail.com, sami@arttherapy.co.za or visit. arttherapy.co.za Chain Maille jewellery workshops Learn a new skill and make jewellery with a difference with Norma Kemp – it’s easy to learn and lots of fun. Interlocking jump rings are used to make modern chain mail jewellery. Make a gift for yourself or a friend. 4 and 28 May. Time:

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Emerging readers workshop

9:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, Shady Lane, off Beyers Naudé and R114, Muldersdrift. Cost: R195, this includes all materials and refreshments.

Contact Athalie: 083 285 8383 Design your garden to attract wildlife Encourage nature’s little creatures to be part of your garden. Join author and wildlife expert Roy Trendler to learn more about how to provide an attractive environment for them. 7 May. Time: 9:30am. Venue: Lifestyle Garden Centre, cnr Beyers Naudé and Ysterhout Ave, Randpark Ridge. Cost: R50, including prizes and tea. Booking essential. Contact: 011 792 5616 or ursula@lifeimp.co.za Domestics cooking course A qualified chef teaches your domestic helper the A–Z of healthy cooking for a family in five lessons. Course covers menu planning, and cooking to maximise nutrition and freshness. The recipes will appeal to the whole family and include some delicious desserts. Your domestic needs to have a good command of the English language and have basic kitchen skills. 6 and 20 May. Venue: Little Cooks Club, Rivonia. Cost: R350 per lesson or R1 500 if you book for all five. Contact Christine: 083 556 3434 or christine@littlecooksclub.co.za Dunstan baby language Learn all about baby communication. 31 May. Contact them for time and cost. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Contact: 011 447 2202,

info@brightstartrightstart.co.za or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Emerging readers workshop If you are a parent of small children you’ll enjoy this course to get your child reading right from the start the fun way. Learn skills and strategies to show your child while reading a bedtime story and thus begin the amazing journey of learning to read together in your own home. 25 May. Time: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: Triba, Craighall Park. Cost: R400 (includes supporting notes and a book). Booking essential. Contact Marian: 082 780 8546 or mbailey@vodamail.co.za Flower workshops Make a Mother’s Day bouquet and learn exciting and imaginative ways to arrange flowers with Kami of Angel Flowers. Discover how to make a few flowers go a long way; how to buy flowers and what to look for and lots more. 7 May. Time: 9am–12pm. Cost: R200, includes flowers to take home and refreshments.

Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, Shady Lane, off Beyers Naudé and R114, Muldersdrift.

Contact Kami: 082 817 1293 Intuition workshop Janee Dewart, author, soul alchemist and visionary gives a talk on “Intuition – Your sixth sense is more real than you know”. Some call it sixth sense, others gut instinct, but it is the ability to tune into your inner guidance system that enables you to gain wisdom and live the life of your choosing instead of your circumstances. 7 May. Time: 2pm.

Venue: Ngwenya Glass Village, Shady Lane, off Beyers Naudé and R114, Muldersdrift.

Cost: R75 and includes talk, tea/coffee and cake. Contact Athalie: 083 285 8383 Let’s Eat Attend their introductory workshop, which covers nutrition for children, explores reasons for fussy eaters, and discusses behavioural management strategies. 18 May. Time and cost supplied enquiry. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Contact: 011 447 2202, info@brightstartrightstart.co.za or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Let’s Get Ready! A workshop for parents, teachers and au pairs of 2 to 8 year olds.

Use what you have at home to play up a storm. Support your child with number, phonics, reading and perceptual skills. 5 May. Time: 3pm–4:15pm. Venue: Happy Hands Exclusive Child Care, 1 King St, Centurion. Cost: R100. Contact: rlighton@ mweb.co.za or visit reneelighton.co.za

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The SPAR Challenge This netball Test series between the South African Proteas and Trinidad and Tobago is a precursor to the World Netball Championships. Trinidad and Tobago is ranked eighth and the SPAR Challenge enables the sixth-ranked South Africans to test their strengths before the big event in Singapore in July. 11–14 May. Contact Natasha: 083 266 0915 or natasha@thebldgroup.com

Lindt Chocolate appreciation sessions A wonderful way to learn about chocolate.

Discover seven different flavours of chocolate and the history of Lindt while enjoying a decadent taste experience and a demonstration from the Lindt maitre on how to create handmade truffles at home.

6, 17 and 24 May. Time: 6pm–7:30pm.

Venue: Chocolate Studio, shop 38, Design Quarter, Fourways. Cost: R150. Contact: 011 467 5730 or visit chocolatestudio.co.za Make your own baby food This is a class for new moms who want to learn to make their own baby food. 23 May. All classes need 6–8 students to take place (or you will be refunded). Venue: Little Cooks Club head office, Rivonia. Cost: R350. Contact Christine: 083 556 3434 or christine@ littlecooksclub.co.za Orlando Towers Bungee jump, power swing, base jump or rap jump your way to an adrenalin-fuelled thrill. Or you can view the fun from the platform below.

Time: subject to booking. Venue: Orlando Towers, cnr Old Potch Rd and Dynamo St, Orlando, Soweto. Cost: R260–R480 for participation; viewing deck R60. . Contact: 011 312 0450 or visit orlandotowers.co.za

Practical parenting course Six weekly sessions led by parent coach Stephanie Dawson-Cosser. She covers “sleepless nights to sweet dreams”, “eat right from the start” and “toddlers do not have to be terrible”. Starts 17 May. Time: 9:30am–12pm. Venue: Choice Child Care, Blairgowrie, Randburg. Cost: tbc, booking essential. Contact: 082 888 1584 or visit choicechildcare.co.za Solids without stress Learn how to introduce solids the easy way. 26 May. Time: confirmed with booking. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Contact: 011 447 2202, info@brightstartrightstart.co.za or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za

on stage and screen The Sopranos For the first time in South Africa, this electrifying show brings you a night of songs and talented ladies, displaying a blend of musical styles. The eight sopranos sing classics from opera, Broadway, pop and rock. 1 May. Time: 2pm and 5pm.

Venue: The Joburg Theatre, Loveday St, Braamfontein. Cost: R181–R242. Contact: 011 877 6800 or visit joburgtheatre.com

support groups

Papercraft workshop

Papercraft workshop See a demo by expert craftswoman Joan Launspach on paper and ribbon craft. This includes “The art of writing beautifully – calligraphy”, “Modern card-making techniques”, “Gift boxes and bags” and “How to wrap presents beautifully”. 19 May. Time: 9am–10:30am. Cost R75, includes tea and cake. To book contact Joan: 083 326 5157 magazine joburg

Adoption and foster parents group This group offers you the chance to talk about the challenges and rewards of your journey with people who understand what you are going through. Meet with other parents on a regular basis for support, companionship and fun. Contact Zoe: 082 554 0625 or Joan: 084 466 3790 or for more info: visit adoptionsa.co.za Asperger Support Group This service offers information, advice, referrals to service providers, and meetings. Parents, friends, family members and Aspies are welcome.

Contact Lauren: 012 361 2793, 083 309 8654 or laurenschrempel@yahoo.com Compassionate Friends Support group for bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents. Contact: 011 440 6322 or visit compassionatefriends.org.za May 2011

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calendar Venue: 1 Cardigan Rd, Parkwood. Contact: 011 788 4784/5, famlife@iafrica.com or visit familylife.co.za For more support groups visit childmag.co.za/resources/supportgroups

bump, baby & Tot in tow

Push me fit

Divorce support group This group is for those going through a divorce and offers information and emotional support. Issues discussed include the emotional stages of divorce, the effects of divorce on children, and practicalities of living separately. 4, 11, 18 and 25 May. Time: 7pm–9pm. Venue: Famsa, 1 Cardigan Rd, Parkwood. Cost: R410, booking essential. Contact: 011 788 4784 or famlife@iafrica.com The Family Life Centre Offers marriage, divorce and couples counselling, single parent and step-parent support groups, family counselling as well as play therapy, grief counselling and trauma debriefing.

They also run an anti-bullying and emotional intelligence programme for teenagers.

BabyGym Foundation Phase Course This five-week course for you and your baby helps you stimulate your little one and ensure whole-brain development.

Learn how to help your baby reach all their milestones. This course is packed with ideas and information. For babies from 2 weeks– 1 year. 31 May. Time: 11am–12:30pm.

Venue: The Children’s Therapy Centre, Petervale/Bryanston. Cost: R630. Contact Joanne: 083 303 1190 or joanne.bradley@ babygym.co.za Get fit and have fun Parents, children and even babies in prams can enjoy a 5km fun walk through the zoo. Second Saturday of each month. Time: 6am–9:30am. Venue: National Zoo, Boom St, Pretoria. Cost: adults R35, children R25. Contact Lettie: 012 323 0294 or visit fotz.co.za Hedgehog Hollow Outdoor fairground with a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round and miniature Hedgehog Express Train. There is also a creative studio, bakery and hair salon.

Picnics welcome. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Garden Shop, 278 Main Rd, Bryanston.

Cost: adults free, children R18. For more info: visit hedgehoglane.co.za Let’s Play Attend this programme with your little one and learn about your baby’s social-emotional development in the first year. BrightStart introduces you to simple, fun and practical activities that encourage play and language skills.

19 May. Time: tbc. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold.

Cost on request. Contact: 011 447 2202, info@brightstartrightstart.co.za or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Let’s Talk For little ones aged 18–24 months. Attend this programme with your toddler and explore the magic of sounds and words through interactive songs, games

and rhymes. 18 May. Time: tbc. Venue: Bright Start Right Start, 35 Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Cost on request. Contact: 011 447 2202, info@brightstartrightstart.co.za or visit brightstartrightstart.co.za Little Cooks Club programme This programme is designed to encourage healthy eating habits in children.

Interactive cooking classes allow moms and tots to create wholesome and delicious meals. Venues: Rivonia, Fourways, Fairland, Mondeor and Edenvale/Bedfordview.

Contact Christine: 083 556 3434, christine@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za Preggi Bellies One-hour cardio and weight-training programme for expectant and postnatal moms. It conforms to strict obstetric guidelines for exercising during

FreeMe rehabilitation centre for indigenous wildlife

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pregnancy. Venues: Bedfordview, Craighall, Fourways, Melrose, Parkmore, Rivonia.

Contact David: 011 440 6222 or visit preggibellies.co.za Push me fit Unique outdoor stroller exercise classes for moms with their babies. The programme is designed by physiotherapists as a specialised postpartum workout. All classes are 60 minutes in duration and incorporate a cardiovascularand free-weight-based full body workout.

Time and venue: every Monday and Friday 10am–11am and every Saturday 9am–10am, Mushroom Farm Park, cnr Daisy and Linden St, Sandown, Sandton. Every Tuesday and Thursday 9:30am–10:30am, Delta Park, Rd No 3, Victory Park, Randburg. Every Monday and Thursday, 9:30am–10:30am.

Cost: 10 classes R900, 20 classes R1 700, 30 classes R2 400. Contact: 011 326 4639 or visit pushmefit.co.za

how to help BackaBuddy This initiative allows you to register yourself as a fundraising Buddy.

Anyone can become a Charity Champion simply by creating a fundraising page on Easygiving and collecting donations in support of any appeal. If you or your team compete in a particular event, you can create a fundraising page and challenge others to raise funds for your chosen charity, on your behalf. For more info: visit backabuddy.co.za

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Door of Hope children’s home They help in meeting the needs of abandoned, abused and orphaned children in South Africa, by providing loving and stable environments. They are in need of baby goods such as formula, bottles, nappies and sterilizer as well as pharmaceuticals such as infant vitamins. You can also help by donating office equipment, cupboards, book shelves and tiles. For more info: visit doorofhope.co.za FreeMe A rehabilitation centre for indigenous wildlife based in the north of Johannesburg. The centre’s wish list includes kettles, scissors, cotton wool, ear buds, padlocks, blankets and much more.

To find out more about how you can help: visit freemewildife.org.za The Topsy Foundation Works with interrelated programmes to help prevent HIV and Aids and alleviate its consequences. Topsy improves the lives of its beneficiaries by providing a comprehensive HIV and Aids Care Clinic, for local people who are living with this disease. They also offer a voluntary counselling and testing service and work to prevent mother to child transmission. Families are given support in the form of counselling and food parcels, and Topsy also empowers communities through provision of skills in vegetable gardening. Your donation helps Topsy to continue providing these vital services. Contact: 011 709 6806 or visit topsy.org.za

Lory Park Donations go a long way to assist the park’s projects and ensure the animals receive only the best care. As a privately funded zoo, Lory Park relies on donations and their volunteers to keep going. If you can assist, no matter how big or small your contribution, every donation is appreciated. Their wish list includes all sorts of things you may have lying around at home, such as old leather belts, baby blankets for the cubs and kittens, bottle brushes and torches. Contact: 011 315 7307 or info@ lorypark.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 4 May for the June 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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last laugh

manners maketh... the mom?

SAM WILSON is no prude to being rude, which is why

Joe, Sam and Benj

i

have never been big on manners. I’m sure there’s some unremembered childhood trauma underpinning this, but I have always seen manners as a way of hiding one’s true self from everyone else. I know, a bit of a curveball, but that’s how I feel.

Being someone with no internal monologue, it’s always been hard to hide anything about myself, which is why I am so uncomfortable around composed, polite folk. While I am bumbling forth about the eye-wincing minutiae of my life and falling all over myself to spill my personal failings, polite folk tend to clam up, watching me in mild distress and sometimes distaste. Which, of course, exacerbates the burble.

Picture the scene: “Hi, I’m Sam,” I’ll say winningly at some function or other, waving a wine glass. “Those canapés look delicious!”

“So nice that you could come,” says polite person, smoothly. “Would you care for a canapé?”

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“Gosh, I’d ‘care for’ six, but my tummy’s been a bit dodge today, so I’d better not,” I’ll reply. “Although, we all know that after a couple more glasses of champers, I’m going to eat as many as are left, so why not?”

Polite person looks puzzled and leaves as quickly as possible. Now, if she’d just been impolite and said something like, “I know! I ate a tray in the kitchen before I brought them out! They are delicious! Does my breath smell like liver paté?” we’d be BFFs for the evening. But no.

For me, the ruder I can be around you, the closer the friendship, and vice versa. I never introduce myself on the phone to close friends, I just start talking. I complain when guests don’t bring me drinks in my own house, if they’ve made for themselves. I ask deeply personal questions from the get-go.

I just find politeness, well, very boring. That is, until I met my son Benjamin.

Benjamin was born polite. Hell, he would have thanked me fresh from the womb, if he hadn’t had to go through that pesky “learning to speak” phase. And it’s a joy to behold.

“Hello, I am very pleased to meet you,” Benj will say, extending a hand to anyone newly in his environs. “My name is Benjamin Späth.” [cue winning smile.] “And this

is my mother, Sam Wilson.” [cue deferential gesture in my direction.]

“Um, hi,” I’ll mumble awkwardly, while wiping my perennially sweaty palm off on my jeans. “It’s nice to, you know...”

You must see the impact it makes on people. A little politeness, applied with skill, and people light up like Christmas trees on Holy Night. Which in turn makes my beloved Benj feel really good about himself. Thereby kicking off an entire cycle of happiness from just one polite gesture.

“How do you do that?” Andreas, Joe and I will ask Benj after such encounters. (Because while all three of us are also nice, no one else got the “self-assured politeness” gene.) “Who taught you? Is it hard?”

“I don’t know,” Benj will say, with a smile, “it just comes naturally to me. And it makes meeting people and talking to them so much nicer if you’re thoughtful from the start.”

Wow. Way to turn my world on its head, little guy. This parenting stuff is not for sissies.

Sam Wilson is the Editor-in-Chief of Women24.com, Parent24.com and Food24.com. She is secretly in awe of how nice her sons are, and fervently hopes, somehow, she had something to do with it.

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PHOTOGRAPH: Andreas SpÄth

her son’s politeness so baffles (and impresses) her.