Child Magazine | Joburg May 2013

J O B U R G ’ S

b e s t

gu i d e

f o r

p a r e n t s

let’s party

your party planning toolkit from invites to thank-you notes

www.childmag.co.za

May 2013

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allergen-free party food

plus alternative education options

health

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Hunter House P U B L I S H IN G

It seems like only yesterday that I stood in the kitchen willing Julian’s ice-cream cake to set in time for her first birthday party.

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

Editorial

Eighteen years on and I am still standing in the kitchen late at night, but now I’m waiting for my eldest daughter, and not for the delightful, slightly lopsided ice-cream cake she requested year after year as her birthday rolled around.

Julian has just passed her driver’s licence test, ending my days of knowing her every move. I can’t help wondering how it all happened so quickly. With her new-found independence, and the relinquishment of my car keys, come the questions: Did I do enough to prepare her for this next stage of her life?

Did I choose the right school for her? I think I did. Did I read her enough bedtime stories?

Definitely not, but my husband may have. Did I organise enough playdates? No, but I think Julian has this one covered. To say that she is a sociable child is an understatement.

But when it comes to my children’s birthday parties, I have tried to make up for

Managing Editor Marina Zietsman • marina@childmag.co.za Features Editor Anél Lewis • features@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Simone Jeffery • joburg@childmag.co.za Editorial Assistant Lucille Kemp • capetown@childmag.co.za Copy Editor Debbie Hathway

Art

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: BROOKE FASANI / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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

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

Client Relations Renee Bruning • renee@childmag.co.za

Subscriptions and Circulation Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

what I lacked on the playdate organising front. My husband and I are happiest when our home is filled with children, while our girls are thrilled that they can have all their friends over at the same time, and that Mom won’t be at work and Dad won’t complain about the mess. As delighted as they may be for the opportunity to get together, it’s also our moment as parents to celebrate what really matters – the birth of our children.

May our “Let’s Party” issue be just what you need to get your celebrations underway.

Here’s to many, many happy birthdays.

To try my almost foolproof ice-cream cake recipe, visit childmag.co.za/content/ice-cream-cake

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

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May 2013

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contents

may 2013

upfront

regulars

3 a note from lisa

8 upfront with paul we should

6 over to you readers respond 32 reader’s blog parents should be involved in all aspects of their children’s lives, says Justin Skea

be vigilant when our children are in contact with wild animals, warns Paul Kerton

12 pregnancy news – baby blessings Lucille Kemp speaks to experienced moms about the gadgets that made life with a newborn much easier

features 16 let’s celebrate Child magazine brings you an inspiring party story board to help you plan the big day

24 beyond the mainstream Nicole Levin looks at education alternatives to traditional schooling

28 is it a plane, is it a train? easy and practical themed recipes from Janette Mocke’s book Easy Party Treats for Children

33 a slice of history Marina Zietsman looks at the humble beginnings of the birthday cake

34 twin cooks Junior MasterChef Australia winner, Isabella Bliss, shares family-favourite recipes

36 safe party snacks an allergy-prone child can also enjoy party treats. Anél Lewis shares some ideas

13 best for baby – be water wise Anél Lewis finds out if it’s safe to give your baby or child bottled water

14 dealing with difference the diagnostic criteria for autism have changed. Lisa Lazarus explains

38 the ultimate party guide compiled by Simone Jeffery

52 a good read new books for the whole family

54 what’s on in may 66 finishing touch Anél Lewis loves every moment she spends with her children, but admits she sometimes craves some “me-time”

classified ads 65 family marketplace

health 9 fight this infection meningitis can be life-threatening, but if you act quickly, it doesn’t have to be.

By Tamlyn Vincent

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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Joburg

Cape Town

Jean Bourget Photo: Olivier Ribardière Jelli Children’s Boutique

Absorba Photo: Gérard Harten Jelli Children’s Boutique

Durban

Belle’s Patisserie bellespatiserie.co.za Photo: Elsa Young

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

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May 2013

5

letters

technology can unlock potential

great article on vaccination

Educators are beginning to look at teaching more holistically and from the perspective of the child. Teachers are trying to uncover a child’s true potential from a very young age to better prepare them for a world we cannot predict. The relentless march of technology means that today we are preparing children for a future we do not fully understand.

Twenty years ago, most people didn’t even own a computer, now hand-held devices are capable of email, internet browsing, social connectivity and countless other operations.

Yet many schools are against using these devices to supplement teaching.

Nothing can replace hands-on learning and human interaction, but teachers should be more open to experimenting with new ways of teaching using media that is quite literally at their fingertips.

Progressive schools realise the importance of early exposure to technology, and they embrace the electronic age. Children are introduced to computer tablets in informal, fun lessons and they are encouraged to explore the functionality of the device in their little hands. We need to ask tough questions of our current education system. What is it preparing our children for? Why are more children being diagnosed with disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder at a younger age? Why are children being prescribed Ritalin and other drugs, just to keep up with or fit into the rather small box our system has created for them? Is this a product of “problem” children, or should we be taking a long, hard look at the way we shape the minds and hearts of our children?

When they start exploring their world, and the technology in it, in a safe environment, they are better equipped to adapt to a shifting world.

Alexandra Grant, The Little Ashford Preschool, Joburg

Thank you for an informative article. Those who have initiated and inflamed the scaremongering associated with vaccines and autism have at best been proven wrong and at worst, as fraudsters. I have a wonderful child on the autism spectrum and I can honestly say that it’s hard for her at times, and it would be so much harder if she still had to deal with blindness from measles or polio. My child also has a seizure disorder and relies on herd immunity from croup and the other illnesses known to trigger seizures. These are real concerns and your sensible and factual response to this issue is much appreciated.

Tertia Japp-Pearse, Durban

over to you a hairy issue I will start off by saying you produce a super magazine chock-full of excellent information and resources. The adorable little girl on the cover of the April 2013 issue is very attractive, but her hair is overprocessed. I know the magazine did not intend to promote destructive living habits, but that hair looks limp and weak. Producers of relaxer warn that children under a certain age should not get their hair chemically processed and this sweet-looking Sthandwa’s hair is in trouble. Braids would have been a great choice. After all, she is representing a progressive, healthy and informed magazine.

What about doing a hairstyle-related article where you bring in some of the wonderful, professional hairstylists who specialize in korrel hare to share their expertise? Pambili!

Noosie Petlele

advice from yesteryear My hope is that you will treat this letter with interest and a very advisory openess. I am writing in response to your article written on children and teething problems (“a pain in the gums”, March 2013). I recently turned 81 years of age, and I am the father of two daughters and a son.

In their infancies they were all treated in the following manner, due to advice given to me by my late mother.

At a guess I would say from about six months old, I rubbed their gums each night with a quality brandy. The results speak for themselves: none of my children drink

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May 2013

thanks for your help Thank you for the coverage of the Kids for Kids campaign for Sea Harvest and the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in the February issue of Child magazine. Just to give you an update: the campaign closed off on R300 000 at a handover on Tuesday 19 March 2013 at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital in Cape Town.

Chris de Beer

feedback on haemophilia feature I want to thank Child magazine and the author, Vanessa Papas, for the article on haemophilia you published (April 2013) and for the awareness you’ve raised. We’ve received great feedback from those who have read it.

Bradley, HaemophiliaSA

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

or smoke and they have pretty good teeth to display.

Incidentally, they all slept extra well most of the time.

This advice is obviously not going to go down well as it involves alcohol, but believe me, it was an unforgettable period for my late wife and I. If you’re interested, I also have a remarkable cure for hay fever and whooping cough. By the way, I am very fit and still athletic and haven’t visited a doctor for over 40 years. I can also still dive from a 12-foot board.

Derrick Merber

volunteer work for teenagers My son is in Grade 7 and has just turned 13. I am a working mom, and when it’s school holidays, he has to alternate between staying home alone or going on play dates.

I would really like him to keep busy and support his interests cost-effectively. There are activities he could do, but these involve money or trying to organise transport. My son is very social and he participates in extramurals and does club sports throughout winter and summer.

So the idea of him doing voluntary work has crossed my mind. I was thinking that perhaps he could help out somewhere for a morning or an afternoon doing ageappropriate tasks. He mentioned that the aquarium sent forms to his school for volunteer work on weekends and that he just had to sign up if he was interested. We’ve contacted them and have received positive feedback

on age-appropriate courses. For future holiday activities and inspiration, I thought to approach Child magazine to find out what your readers with teenage children do to keep them occupied, entertained and happy during the holidays.

Paula Mulligan Childmag says You can share your solutions on our Facebook page.

do it for our planet I agree with Charl du Plessis (our poor planet, “over to you”, April 2013). I don’t see why I should recycle, keep my carbon footprint to the minimum and support local produce, if rich fastfood outlets could not be bothered to do their bit for the environment. I won’t support them.

Errol Beetge

erratum In the April 2013 issue of Child magazine we published a review on the Fantastic Fingers book, CD and DVD. The cost was given as R250 for the book and DVD, which is incorrect. The cost for the book and CD is R250. The DVD is R200. We apologise for the inconvenience. subscribe to our newsletter and win Our wins have moved online. Please subscribe to our newsletter and enter our weekly competition.

To subscribe, visit childmag.co.za

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

Post a comment online at childmag.co.za

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upfront with paul

animal instincts Engaging with creatures of all types is important for your child’s emotional

he relationship between children and animals has been widely documented and has become a valuable litmus test for our offspring’s state of mind in terms of their compassion, respect, fear and willingness to engage with our natural neighbours, whether fluffy and cuddly or slithery and off-putting. There is something psychologically warming about the connection between a child and an animal. The mere act of stroking a pet is understood to reduce our blood pressure, calm our nerves and siphon off stress. The watchword is compassion and experts agree that the sooner we show our children how to feel compassion, the better the planet will become as compassion begets compassion.

Here I’m talking about all animals and not just the lovable pets that sneak their way into the hearts of millions of families worldwide. Even the “nasty, horrible” creatures like tarantulas and venomous snakes can inspire emotional bonds. A

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May 2013

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

friend, Bernard, used to run a “petting park”, which I initially thought was somewhere you go on a first date, but it turns out to be a place where children can engage with all sorts of living creatures, from frogs and spiders through to badgers and lizards, up to super-sized lions and elephants. “You can tell immediately whether a child is afraid of an animal and it is really rewarding to watch them overcome their fears and

pick up an otter or have a scorpion run up their arm,” he says.

You can also tell when a child has some sort of social problem, because the converse is true. “Some children can be terribly cold and cruel to animals and treat them with no respect whatsoever.” The last time I got into a fight at school I was defending a harmless hamster against an older classmate who thought it hilarious to

torment it with the sharp end of a geometry compass. I hate bullying of any kind.

Call me a wuss, but while I am in favour of engaging with all creatures great and small, there is one sensible brain cell at the back of my head that screams a reminder that many of these animals are wild and no manner of over-feeding or shampooing their fur will ever disguise that fact. I remember taking Sabina and Saskia to a game farm where the children were allowed to touch small lions and cheetah. Sabina went and frolicked with a handful of baby cheetahs, which was enormous fun. But the caracal was so crazy that we were not allowed to go inside its cage. Which was just as well because no sooner had the handler started to gently pat the pointy-eared “football hooligan” of the cat world, it shot into the air and scratched her on the head. So should your child be taking part in any animal touchy-feely fest, it’s a good idea to be vigilant and stay close.

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

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PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

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development, says PAUL KERTON, but don’t get too close to the wild ones.

health

fight this infection

e

very year one million people around the world will suffer from bacterial meningitis and 170 000 people will die because of it. Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, and babies, children, teenagers and the elderly are most at risk. There are two types of meningitis: viral and bacterial.

Viral meningitis is more common and can cause some damage, especially when there is a component of viral encephalitis or swelling of the brain, says Cape Town paediatrician Dr Deon Smith. But it is often less severe than bacterial meningitis, which has a higher chance of causing neurological damage. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, 204 cases of meningococcal meningitis, caused by bacteria, were reported in South Africa in 2012, with most patients being younger than 10.

look out for these signs

getting help Bacterial meningitis can kill in four hours, so getting medical help quickly is essential.

Redelinghuys advises that parents go to a paediatrician or hospital if their child has any symptoms. If doctors suspect meningitis, they may put a child onto intravenous antibiotics until they can determine whether it is viral or bacterial. The different strains of meningitis are best diagnosed by doing a lumbar puncture or spinal tap, says Smith, who adds that even blood tests may not be conclusive. Children will be hospitalised for both strains, but with viral meningitis they could go home after 24 to 48 hours, whereas bacterial meningitis will likely require 10 to 14 days of intravenous antibiotics. The bacteria that can cause meningitis is spread through droplets of respiratory secretions that may be transmitted through coughing, sneezing, kissing or being in close contact with a carrier.

Meningitis can be life-threatening, but

getting help quickly will decrease the risk of

The symptoms for both strains of meningitis are the same, with the classic signs in adults including a fever, headache, light sensitivity, vomiting and a stiff neck. But the way meningitis presents in children is quite different, advises Smith. Children younger than six months will usually be floppy and lethargic, and they won’t want to eat or drink. Other symptoms might include a high temperature, a high-pitched irritable cry, and a bulging anterior fontanel, says Smith. Sister Elsabe Redelinghuys, from a baby wellness clinic in Joburg, says children may also vomit if their temperature is very high. Older children will have a fever, headache and vomiting and, on examination, signs of neck stiffness. Another symptom of bacterial meningitis is a non-blanching rash, which may occur later. Smith suggests placing the bottom of a glass over the rash and pushing down. If the rash doesn’t go white, get to a hospital immediately.

complications. By TAMLYN VINCENT

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risky business

Parents may be reluctant for their child to have a lumbar puncture, but paediatricians are skilled at doing these and the risks involved are far less than leaving bacterial meningitis undiagnosed. The complications of this disease include hearing loss, deafness, learning problems, brain damage and even death.

But there has been a decrease in the incidence of bacterial meningitis, says Smith, thanks mainly to childhood immunisations. There are vaccines for the types of bacteria that can cause meningitis such as Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib). Smith emphasises the importance of having children immunised.

“Parents don’t understand the devastation that can be wrought by this disease,” Smith adds.

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pregnancy news

baby blessings Pregnant moms are spoilt for choice when it comes to baby products.

Among the biggest time stealers when you have a newborn that’s not being breast-fed, is the seemingly endless cycle of cleaning bottles and preparing formula. It’s no fun standing in the semi-dark at 3am, trying to remember how many scoops of formula you’ve poured into a bottle. Our sisters – and brothers – overseas have been reaping the benefits of ready-to-feed formula for a while, and it’s now also available in South Africa. These sterile and convenient containers of prepared formula will be a godsend for moms on the go, and will no doubt be a must-have when travelling.

As a new parent, you sometimes literally have your hands full. A handy gadget is an all-in-one wet wipe and bum cream dispenser that allows you to clean and put cream on your baby with one hand, while holding his legs with the other.

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A sleeping bag is a proven winner, especially for a winter baby. Babies who are cold during the night are more likely to wake up, and the sleeping bag minimises the risk of blankets being kicked off. Some of them are weighted, providing just the right amount of reassuring pressure to calm troubled sleepers.

Soothers are essential – for baby and mom – with two popular choices being the “doodoo blanky”, which is a cloth of smooth satin tags that provide a tactile experience and a BPA-free giraffe that is a great teething device, with its soft knobbly parts to soothe baby’s gums and long legs for whole-gum chewing and hard-to-reach molars.

Anti-colic bottles are a life-saver for parents with fractious babies. And any bottles that are selfsterilising are an added blessing, especially when you are travelling. Many moms swear by the dishwasher baskets for bottles, teats and lids that spare you from hand-washing all the bits that make up your baby’s bottles. Bottle warmers come in all shapes and sizes. The portable ones are so convenient; there are warmers that don’t require electricity and you even get one that you can plug into your car lighter for when you need warm milk on the move.

Bath time is fun for baby, but hard on your knees if you’re using the “big” bath. A nifty kneeler pad will provide some welcome comfort.

Who would’ve thought new parents could still rock the mini fridge? You know the type that takes four cold-drink cans? One creative mom admits she swore by it, having kept it on her bedside table at night filled with bottles ready-to-go.

Breast-feeding may be challenging for some moms and a nipple shield, made of thin and flexible silicone, can be used to protect sore nipples. A Cape Town mom says she needed laser therapy as her child tore holes in her nipples from sucking so hard. Nipple shields were her “saving grace”.

Babies, for their small size, generate a huge amount of washing. A specialist, energy-saving laundry spin dryer that dries clothes quickly and efficiently by using centrifugal force instead of heat, is useful.

Baby slings and carriers that comply with safety standards have many benefits. The biggest drawing card is that there is little need for a pram if you use one regularly. It encourages closeness, promotes kangaroo care and even helps your baby sleep better. And it frees up your hands for other tasks.

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

LUCILLE KEMP asks seasoned parents for their layette recommendations.

best for baby

be water wise k

erryn Gibson, a Durban-based paediatric and sports dietician, says bottled water may have unsafe levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium and magnesium. Good old tap water is your safest bet, she says. “Our water in this country is of such a good quality that there’s no reason to drink bottled water.” Kath Megaw, a paediatric dietician in Cape Town, agrees. “The strict South African Bureau of Standards’ codes assure us that the water is safe for our families to drink.”

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

too many elements Babies younger than six months get all the liquid they need through breast milk or formula. They don’t really need to drink additional water. In fact, too much water at this early stage can lead to water intoxication, which will affect their kidneys.

However, if you are travelling in an area where the water may be contaminated, or you’re unable to prepare cooled boiled water for a formula-feed, you may want to use bottled water instead. It’s important to note that bottled water is not sterile, and that it also needs to be boiled and allowed to cool before use.

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It’s convenient and refreshing, but is bottled water safe for your baby or child to drink? ANÉL LEWIS finds out.

Gibson says formula already contains high levels of sodium and potassium, so adding mineral-rich bottled water to the mix will place stress on your baby’s kidneys and organs. “The amount of some minerals used in these bottled waters is not regulated (by legislation) and so at the end of the day, the safest option is boiled tap water,” says Megaw. The South African National Bottled Water Association (SANBWA) assures consumers that when it comes to the mineral content “no South African water falls into a category high enough for concern”. SANBWA chairman John Weaver, says that commercially sold bottled water can be safely consumed by babies and

children, because of its low mineral content.

He recommends that “all water – whether from a tap or a bottle – be boiled and allowed to cool before it is used for infants”.

If you do turn to bottled water to make up formula, make sure it is not the sparkling variety as this could irritate the stomach.

dental concerns Tap water is one of the main sources of fluoride, a trace element that strengthens teeth and helps prevent tooth decay.

Dr Nadia Mohamed, head of paediatric dentistry at the University of the Western Cape, says children who drink bottled water, or who live in areas where the tap water

has low fluoride levels, should take fluoride supplements as prescribed by a dentist.

Water that is labelled as purified, deionised, demineralised or distilled is low in fluoride. There are no studies that conclusively link drinking bottled water to tooth decay, and other factors such as poor dental hygiene and over-consumption of sugary foods will obviously play a role. Too much fluoride can cause discolouration of the teeth.

be label-savvy If you give bottled water to your child, look for the SANBWA logo as its members comply with stringent standards. SANBWA sets a guideline for sulphates (SO4) at less than 1 000mg/l, nitrates (NO3) at less than 50mg/l and a maximum limit for fluoride of 5mg/l. Where bottled water contains more than 1,5mg of fluoride it shall have the phrase “not suitable for infants and children under the age of seven years” on the label. Weaver says that as other minerals are unlikely to have an effect on health, legislation does not specify a limit for calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), pH or total dissolved solids.

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dealing with difference

away with asperger’s LISA LAZARUS looks at the impact of new diagnostic criteria for autism.

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he Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, known as the DSM, contains the criteria for making diagnoses. This so-called “bible” of psychiatry, while published by the American Psychiatric Association, is used by mental health professionals around the world. It therefore has an impact on the way individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including Asperger’s disorder (AD), will be diagnosed and the kind of intervention they will receive in South Africa. The 5th version of this book, the DSM-V, will be published in May 2013.

with one of three severity levels. Janine explains that the severity levels of an ASD are based on the amount of support required by the individual, due to the challenges presented by the disorder.

proposed changes to the DSM-5 regarding Asperger’s disorder

There are three levels: requiring support, requiring substantial support and requiring very substantial support. “These terms seem to be very subjective and could be interpreted differently by professionals.” If the severity should fall outside of the scope of these levels but social communication challenges are still evident, then a new category, known as social communication disorder (SCD), might apply. For SCD to be diagnosed, the individual must not exhibit the more restricted,

repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities, which characterise an ASD. Chantal van Ginkel, an educational consultant who works with both children and adults with autism spectrum disorders, points out that although communication is now assessed in a more holistic way and the emphasis is on the social aspects of the condition, there is a concern that “the new diagnostic criteria may exclude cognitively developed, higherfunctioning individuals from receiving a diagnosis, thus excluding them from interventions and resources”.

Janine Chester, director of Autism Western Cape, explains that the way we describe autism-related disabilities will change. Medical professionals will no longer distinguish between autism, Asperger’s disorder, pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified and childhood disintegrative disorder. Instead, all these disorders will form part of an autism spectrum disorder,

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why the changes?

Jill Stacey, national director at Autism South Africa, states that the diagnostic changes are an attempt to eliminate subjective influences when making a diagnosis. “It is possible to clearly distinguish between people with an autism spectrum disorder and so-called ‘normal/neuro-typical’ people,” she says, “but it is difficult to diagnose subgroups within the autistic category accurately and consistently, without the

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

The new diagnostic criteria may exclude cognitively developed, higher-functioning individuals from receiving a diagnosis, thus excluding them from interventions and resources.

influence of perceptions, different training or viewpoints.”

Research also indicates that the new diagnostic criteria are more accurate regarding the presentation and pathology of autism and that the stipulated levels of support will be more beneficial for people with an ASD. Dr Cobie Lombard, principal of Unica School for Autism in Pretoria, says, “This will hopefully lead to more focus on the individual’s needs in terms of school placement and intervention, without creating unrealistic expectations from parents.”

pros and cons of the changes to the DSM-5 Janine, who is also the mother of a 15-year-old adolescent suffering from Asperger’s, sees benefits and problems in the proposed changes. “On the one hand a diagnosis of autism, not Asperger’s, will make it easier for parents to obtain concessions for the challenges faced by children on the spectrum – such as getting a scribe, extra time for exams, as well as enabling children to take notes and do their homework on the computer.”

In other words, the perception of Asperger’s as mild will be tempered by the realisation that the daily difficulties

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of such individuals are not always simple for both the person concerned and their family. “My son’s inability to read social cues and interact with people severely impacts upon his social interaction, making most social contact extremely stressful for him.”

Jill says the addition of sensory issues, such as adverse responses to specific sounds or textures, excessive smelling or touching of objects, as potential diagnostic indicators for autism, is a benefit of the new criteria. They will also better identify an autistic spectrum disorder in previously undiagnosed girls, as the criteria will reveal the more subtle manifestations of autism.

However, Janine explains that Asperger’s has its own unique characteristics and scrapping the diagnosis may result in children not receiving the correct therapy. Her

son was only diagnosed at the age of 13 and although he received speech and occupational therapy, he did not receive behaviour modification therapy. She worries that doing away with the diagnosis of Asperger’s may result in children “not receiving the correct care and therapy, which will affect their prognosis”. Furthermore, she is concerned about medical aid coverage for those people who are no longer on the autism spectrum, due to the stricter criteria.

well-known people who have been diagnosed as “Aspies” • M arie Curie, known for her pioneering work on radioactivity • Albert Einstein, who developed the theory of relativity • Mozart, classical composer and prolific artist • Andy Warhol, American pop artist • Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft, is thought to have Asperger’s • Daryl Hannah, American actress

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your party

let’s celebrate The preparation can be as much fun as the party itself, if you know what you want and how to get it organised. Use these tips from

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planning the party

Planning a party for your child can be daunting, but it needn’t be. If you work well in advance, and have a clear idea of what you want, you can alleviate much of the party stress.

Draw up your budget so that you know before you start how much you want to spend, and what you can do.

Set up a time schedule so that you are on track with every aspect of the event. Send the invites at least a month in advance, with the RSVP date about two weeks before the party.

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PHOTOGRAPHS / illustrations: shutterstock.com

CHILD MAGAZINE to get started.

Bear in mind that if your child is at school, there may be a policy about handing out invites. You can either post invites or email or sms the parents directly. Decide whether you want to invite the whole class, or only the boys or the girls.

Consider the season when deciding on your venue. Will you be able to host it outdoors, or could rain put a damper on things?

You may want to book a venue, rather than host it at home.

Also think about the time of day, and duration of the party.

Plan your entertainment. Younger children will be happy to play games, while older children may want a bit more to keep them busy.

If you are hosting at home, make sure the party space is safe. If it’s a pool party, will there be restricted access for younger guests who can’t swim yet? Lock away valuables that could be broken, or cause damage, before young guests arrive.

Are parents invited? From about the age of five, most children will not need their parents to stay.

Decide on how many people to invite. The rule of thumb is usually the age of your child, plus one. So for a four year old, you would invite five guests.

Pinterest is a novel way of collecting ideas, and organising them in an accessible way. You can also access thousands of other pinboards packed with party inspiration. Get tips for everything, from decor to party entertainment. The great thing about Pinterest is that you can link it to other social media, such as Facebook, which means you can get input from your friends as you plan. Afterwards you can pin photographs of your successful event as inspiration for other parents. For more ideas, visit our page at pinterest.com/childmagazine Decide on your theme – this will guide your decisions about the invites, venue, decor, food and entertainment. As your child gets older, they will be very clear about what they want. Involve them in the preparation as much as possible.

You also want to decide on the type of cake you will have, as this is often the centrepiece of the event.

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4 friends

To read more and to download your party-planning-checklist, go to childmag.co.za/content/ party-planning checklist

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out-of-the-box venues

The venue will depend on several things, such as the time of year, the number of guests and even your theme. Here are some ideas:

summer

A boat works well for a sea-themed party.

Host an island- or mermaidthemed party if you live near a beach, or are holidaying close to one when it’s your child’s birthday.

Create an obstacle course for a boot-camp party, or set up a camp in your garden for a sleepover.

Set up a food table at one of the skateboard parks in your neighbourhood and let the boys “ollie” to their heart’s content.

Just make sure you have their parents’ permission and that everyone is safely kitted out.

Visit a spa for a pamper party.

Create a Bedouin experience with cushions, beautiful fabric and delicate finger eats for pre-teenage girls wanting something a bit different.

autumn

Use the scratch patch for an explorer’s theme.

If you’re not bound by a budget, host the bash at an historic home or stately venue.

Lunch at an airport restaurant for plane-mad boys.

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winter

Host a movie party for older children – at your house or hire out the cinema.

You can get the children to dress up, as if they are attending the Oscars or a premiere.

Get the creative juices flowing by inviting your guests to a pottery or mosaic studio where they can make something to take home.

Visit a science centre where they can discover more about how things work.

If the weather forces the children indoors, keep them busy with a ballet or martialarts party where they can learn a new skill while having fun.

An aquarium for an underwater party

Visit a natural quarry or a forest.

Younger children will love a teddy bear’s picnic at your local park or green belt.

spring

Older girls may enjoy a fancy high tea.

Go to a venue where children can ride battery-operated cars in a mini city.

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your party

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please come to my party

The invitations set the tone for the party. Make sure you include all the relevant information, including the time, venue and whether parents need to pack additional gear for their children, such as a swimming costume or closed shoes.

For a green option, print invites on biodegradable paper with embedded seeds, that you can plant afterwards.

Some ideas: Build an invite around a photo of your child. This works especially well with electronic invites, which you can create on smilebox.com and other sites.

Make mini beach balls for a pool party.

Buy inexpensive watercolour paints and paste the invite inside the cover for an artist’s party.

Create rock star lanyards if your pre-teenager is having a disco or rock party.

Make a puzzle invite. The pieces come in a bag, and have to be put together to read.

Put a message in a bottle for a pool or beach party.

Send a fortune cookie that has the invite inside.

Personalise invites with the hungry caterpillar.

For a secret agent party, write in small text that can only be read with a magnifying glass, which you include with the invite, or with lemon juice as “invisible ink�, that can only be read when held up to the light.

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4

party food

Your choice of food may be determined by the theme, the age of your child, and even the time of day.

Younger children will enjoy simple, finger foods while older children can eat just about anything. If you have a mix of ages at the party, ensure that younger children can’t ingest anything that may be a choking hazard.

Serve food in innovative ways. Put hot dogs in paper “boats”, as you would get them at a vendor or serve juice from a punch bowl with jelly-fish or stars, depending on your theme.

Serve savoury food first, then the sweet fare. Spare a thought for the parents who will be taking home a child pumped up on sugar if you go crazy with the sugary treats.

Keep a balance, and have plenty of fruit and other nutritious options available. Fruit kebabs are a creative way of serving something healthy, yet colourful.

A time-saver for serving ice-cream scoops is to store them in lined cupcake pans in the freezer beforehand, so you have them ready at the party.

Bear in mind that you may have guests at the party who are allergic to certain foods. (See “safe party snacks” page 36).

The cake is the focal point of the whole affair, so you can let your creativity run wild with this. If you’re not much of a baker, why not try a cupcake caterpillar cake? It’s easy to make, but effective when displayed (and much easier to dish out).

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parents’ behaviour

If parents are invited, which is usually the case with younger children, you need to think about catering for them too.

Designate an area for parents who smoke, away from the children.

Include parents in the party action by letting them take part in some of the games.

If you are having a fancy-dress party, you could ask parents to also dress up.

There may come a time when you will have to deal with a child who is unruly. If the parents are there, take them aside and ask them to deal with the situation or, if allowed, speak to the child yourself. If it’s the birthday boy or girl who is having “a moment”, take them aside to calm down, or use a diversion tactic like introducing a new game or bringing out the cake.

Have snacks for grown-ups.

Think carefully about whether you want to serve alcohol to parents or not. If you do, mention this when you send the invite so that parents can decide beforehand if they want to arrange for transport.

If there is alcohol available, make sure it’s well out of children’s reach.

Also provide nonalcoholic beverages.

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6

after the party Manners are always important and a party is a good opportunity to teach children about showing gratitude.

You will have to decide whether you want to hand out party packs. If you do, make sure the contents are age-appropriate. You could include a beautifully decorated cupcake or a funky cake pop as a party favour. If you have had a MasterChef party, each child could take home a monogrammed apron.

If you had games that involved prizes, make sure that each guest has something to take home, including those who did not win.

Decide whether you will send a handmade or hand-written thankyou note. You can also send electronic thank-you notes, but there is something special about one that has been made by hand.

Get your child to make a thank-you note, or to write their own message if they’re old enough.

You can take photos of your child opening gifts and use these as thank-you tags.

Also think about thank-you gifts, such as a plant with an organic pot that can be planted.

This doubles as a party favour. You could also give parents a Lotto ticket, especially for a younger child’s celebration.

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education

beyond the mainstream With South Africa’s education system ranked among the worst in the world, there’s growing

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ne of the most important decisions you have to make as a parent is what educational path to choose for your child. Most parents opt for traditional schools as these are the most widely available and familiar to them. But are traditional schools actually educational dinosaurs? Sir Ken Robinson, a British academic and internal educational advisor, identifies that traditional schools first came into being in the 19th century during the Industrial Revolution in England. Many schools today follow the educational models from that time: children have to fit in, learn predominately academic subjects and wear uniforms. Robinson suggests that this educational model is no longer relevant to our 21st century-world.

beyond the traditional So what other options do we have? One example of an alternative school is the Hout Bay Montessori School in Cape Town, whose motto is “Education for a New World”.

Kerin Goosen, the school’s principal, says that education has to change to prepare children for an uncertain future. Traditional education, which places emphasis on

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

disillusionment with the traditional school system. NICOLE LEVIN considers some of the alternatives.

conformity, learning by memorising and adherence to authority, offers outdated values for a world that is going to need highly creative, innovative and technologically advanced problem solvers.

Cedar House, an alternative school in Cape Town, caters for Grade 5 to 12 learners. Its curriculum is designed by the staff and encourages diversity, social awareness and intellectual rigour. Cedar House celebrates individuality and gives students a voice; it describes itself as “speaking back to conventional notions of schooling and traditional experiences of student powerlessness”. International schools offer an internationally recognised curriculum.

Education is not the same as schooling. You can have an education without schooling, and you can educate yourself in spite of schooling.

Alternative schools often cater for children who are not thriving in the mainstream system. Marc Loon started his school, the Kairos School of Inquiry in Joburg, in 2011 with three such children. Two years later, the school has 38 learners from Grade 1 to 6. His learners now include many children that would cope well in the mainstream systems. Parents are choosing Kairos because they want a more holistic education that develops critical thinking and creativity, and supports their children’s individuality. Parents are looking for something different for their children from what they experienced themselves at school. Ambleside schools value the individuality of each child and cultivate Christian values. They focus on exposing students to “living ideas” found in art literature, science and music.

waldorf schools Anette Bestwick, of the Federation of Waldorf Schools Council, says their system of education is one of the fastest growing alternative school systems globally. Developed by Rudolf Steiner, the 12-year curriculum aims to integrate intellectual,

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Where SA’s education system ranked out of 144 countries surveyed.

– World Economic Forum

physical and emotional development while nurturing the child’s social and growth. The method of teaching is based on the in-depth study of child development and it will vary with the age of the child. In kindergarten, the focus is on experience and learning through play. In the primary school, the development of skills and intellectual capacity are met through feeling, observation and experience. In the high school, the intellectual needs are met directly through intellectual discourse and rigorous thinking. The common thread through all the faculties is self-directed activity.

This encourages self-discovery, research and engagement with the subject matter. The emphasis on practical work includes activities such as handwork, woodwork, gardening, metalwork, craft and design. Waldorf aims to prepare children for life.

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education

montessori way The Montessori system was developed by Maria Montessori, an Italian medical doctor, anthropologist and educationalist. She observed that children learn through their own actions, and she developed learning materials where children could learn through doing developmentally appropriate tasks. Montessori’s approach is based on “following the child”; recognising and responding to the individual child’s developmental needs. In the Montessori classroom children learn at their own pace and are given increasingly stimulating and challenging intellectual tasks as they are ready.

Children work predominantly individually and in small groups. There is no “boardand-chalk” teaching and very little teacher talking time, as the teacher works more as a facilitator. Montessori teachers believe that children have an inherent ability to do their own learning and so the Montessori classroom focuses on developing independence, selfconfidence, self-discipline, concentration and orderly work habits. The Montessori method develops the child’s internal sense of self and connectedness to the world.

Classes are not divided by age but by learning stages. Both the Waldorf and Montessori systems have their critics. Some parents and educators feel that the Waldorf system is not academically rigorous enough, and that graduates can be academically disadvantaged compared to their mainstream peers. Some mainstream primary school teachers feel if children in Montessori schools are not carefully monitored, there can be big gaps in their knowledge. But Sharon Caldwell, CEO of the South African Montessori Association (SAMA), says “that if the Montessori curriculum is followed correctly, there won’t be gaps in the child’s knowledge. The problem is that the name Montessori is not copyrighted. A school can use the name ‘Montessori’ even if they follow the Montessori curriculum very loosely.”

Traditional education which places emphasis on conformity, learning by memorising and adherence to authority offers outdated values for a world that is going to need highly creative, innovative and technologically advanced problem solvers. filling the gap Many children who feel disconnected, uninspired, have difficulty learning in a mainstream environment or are gifted often thrive in Waldorf or Montessori schools. Austyn Cohen, 11, is one such child. “From the age of three I knew he was in the wrong system,” says his mother Sherilyn. “He just didn’t fit. In mainstream schooling he was unmotivated, disinterested, and tried to avoid all schoolwork.” In the middle of his Grade 3 year, Austyn went for a trial day at a Waldorf School. After one day there, he refused to go back to mainstream. Sherilyn says it was “like someone waved a magic wand”. At Gaia, he became a completely different child. He became self-motivated, curious to learn and regained “the authentic Austyn”. Many children start off their schooling in Montessori preschools and then move into mainstream schooling. Even if parents would like to keep their children in the Montessori system, it usually isn’t possible because there are so few Montessori primary schools in South Africa. Caldwell says, “Children who have attended a Montessori preschool have a high level of independence. Parents need to choose a primary school that values this independence in their learners. A good Montessori preschool will advise parents which local primary school would be a good transition for their child.”

learn at home Unable to find a school that suits their specific educational needs, some parents opt for home-schooling; taking responsibility for their children’s education, rather than handing the task over to a school. Home-schooled children learn through tailor-made lessons delivered by their parents or tutors, online resources, and specially designed homeschooling learning resources. Parents are free to structure their child’s learning depending on their child’s abilities, interests and natural rhythms.

Home-schooling is popular in very religious communities who feel that schools expose their children to negative secular values; also those living in isolated communities, children who have learning difficulties or who are gifted, and with parents who feel that school is having a negative impact on their child’s self-esteem and self-worth.

Tantan Alexander, eight, has difficulty concentrating in the classroom, and was constantly being reprimanded in his traditional school. His parents, frustrated with the school system, decided to home-school him. “I do not want him to be hurt all the time by demands and reprimands, detentions and labelling in a system that expects him to mould and squash himself in a way which would cause him to lose his personality, talents and peace of mind,” says his mother, Andi. Home-schooling means Tantan is free to play

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when he needs to, and does not have to sit still for hours on end in a classroom. Andi feels that since starting home-schooling Tantan has a much better quality of life; he is more productive, less exhausted, and has energy and time for socialising and extracurricular activities which he didn’t have when he went to school.

Kyle Mason Jones, 29, is an example of home-schooling success. As a gifted child, Kyle was bored at school, and at age 13 refused to be enrolled in high school. “I didn’t like school because I didn’t have any rights, any decision-making power, and my opinions weren’t valued,” he says. At first, home-schooling was challenging because he had to figure out how to learn on his own. But he soon mastered the skill, matriculated at 16 and went on to travel and then study chemistry. He obtained a master’s degree in engineering and today works as a researcher for an environmental consultancy. “Education is not the same as schooling. You can have an education without schooling, and you can educate yourself in spite of schooling.”

the way of the future In the USA, UK and Australia, governments have recognised that the concept of “onesize-fits-all” education does not entirely work. To curb school dropout rates, these countries fund alternative education programmes to cater for children who are not coping in the mainstream.

In South Africa, it appears as if we need more diverse approaches to education so as to meet the individual needs of children. Large classes, standardised curriculums, a restrictive school structure, bullying, and limited technology are some of the reasons that children may drown in the sea of mainstream education.

In the landmark documentary on education We are the People We’ve Been Waiting For, Dr Cream Wright, Chief of Education for Unicef, says, “Schools often fail to prepare people for contemporary society, for the realities of the world in which we live in and even more significantly fail to prepare young people for the emerging issues of our time.”

for more information about schooling options: The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa Visit: isasa.org Association of Christian Schools International Visit: acsi.co.za Association of Muslim Schools Visit: ams-sa.org The Federation of Waldorf Schools Visit: waldorf.org.za South African Montessori Association Trust Visit: samontessori.org.za Association for Homeschooling Visit: tuisskolers.org

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party book extract

is it a plane, is it a train?

Take the fuss out of party catering with these creative yet practical ideas,

lamington train Makes one train • 9 lamington squares • glacé icing • liquorice strips • round sweets for the wheels • 2 sugared jelly rings • 2 dome-shaped sugared jelly sweets • a variety of small sweets • 1 rectangular cake board Use three lamington squares to form the locomotive. Use glacé icing to stick two lamington squares together, and stick another one on top of the back square.

Place the locomotive on the cake board – use glacé icing to secure it.

Cut a square out of the top lamington, leaving a 1cm edge all round. Do the

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same with the remaining six squares, to form the carriages of the train.

Cut the liquorice strips into pieces ± 3cm long. Press one end of a piece of liquorice into the back of the lamington locomotive and press the other end into another lamington, so it appears as if the train carriage is hooked to the locomotive.

Repeat with the rest of the lamingtons to form the train.

Using a little glacé icing, stick the round sweets to the lamingtons so they resemble the wheels of the train. Stick two sugared jelly rings at the front of the locomotive and place two dome-shaped sugared jelly sweets on top of the jelly rings, to form the funnels.

Finally, place a variety of small sweets on the locomotive and carriages.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: RYNO

extracted from Easy Party Treats for Children by JANETTE MOCKE.

green frogs Makes 10 • 10 Marie biscuits • green butter icing • 20 green edible cupcake cases • 20 green jelly rings • small sweets • 10 pink or red sour worms • green glacé icing • 10 green Jelly Tots • 20 silver sugar balls Spread green butter icing over the Marie biscuit and place a green cupcake case on top, slightly towards the back. Cut out a section of the jelly ring.

Stick two jelly rings into the butter icing, right up against the cupcake case, for the feet. Fill the cupcake case with small sweets.

Using glacé icing, stick the sour worm onto the cupcake case, then stick the second cupcake case, upside down, to the bottom case, to form the head – the worm helps keep the mouth open.

For the eyes, cut a Jelly Tot in half and use green glacé icing to stick the two halves on top of the cupcake case. Use green glacé icing to stick a silver sugar ball in front of each Jelly Tot.

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swiss roll snails Makes 10 • 5 mini Swiss rolls • 50g milk chocolate • 10 finger biscuits • 20 orange sugar balls • 20 short liquorice strips Cut the mini Swiss rolls in two. Melt the chocolate in the microwave, stirring often. Use some melted chocolate to stick half a Swiss roll to one end of each finger biscuit, to form the shell.

Use melted chocolate to stick a small round sweet on top of each short liquorice strip and leave to set for a few seconds. Stick two strips onto the other end of the finger biscuit, for the feelers.

Leave to set.

Dip the tip of a fork into the melted chocolate and move it quickly back and forwards over the snails, to make streaks.

Place some wax paper underneath to prevent your work surface from being covered in chocolate.

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party book extract

aeroplanes Makes 10 • 10 rectangular wafer biscuits • glacé icing • 30 Smarties • 10 finger biscuits • 10 sugared jelly rings Cut five of the wafer biscuits in half and cut the halves into triangles. Cut the other five wafer biscuits lengthwise in two. Using glacé icing, stick 3 Smarties on top of each long half. When the Smarties are secure, stick one long half on top of each finger biscuit, about one third from the front, to form the wings.

Stick one triangular wafer biscuit at the other end of the finger biscuit, to form the tail of the plane.

Stick a sugared jelly ring to the front of the finger biscuit, to form the propeller. Leave to stand until the icing sets.

helicopters Makes 10 • 10 edible cupcake cases • butter icing • 10 Marie biscuits • cake beads • 10 Jelly Babies • 25 rectangular wafer biscuits • ± 60 Smarties Using kitchen scissors, cut away about one quarter of the cupcake case. Fill an icing bag with butter icing and pipe a semicircle onto the Marie biscuit, then set the cupcake case on top (positioning the open side of the cupcake case where there is no icing). Press cake beads into the edges of the icing, for decoration.

Cut the Jelly Baby in half and use a little butter icing to stick the upper body to the Marie biscuit, inside the cupcake-case opening.

Cut two wafer biscuits in half lengthwise. Stick two halves across each other on top of the cupcake case, to form the rotors. Stick the other two halves, on their sides, to the base of the Marie biscuit, to form the skids.

Cut one wafer biscuit in half diagonally and stick one triangle to the cupcake case to form the tail of the helicopter. Stick Smarties to the tail and the rotors as shown, for decoration. Leave to stand until the icing sets.

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bundles of biscuits • assorted biscuits (finger biscuits, round biscuits with holes) • variety of fabric or paper ribbons, string or raffia Tie the biscuits together in bundles of two or three. Use any biscuits, and choose ribbon colours and textures to fit your theme.

This is a quick, easy treat to make.

tea cups Makes 10 • glacé icing • pink butter icing • 10 Marie biscuits • 10 edible cupcake cases • 10 sugared round jelly rings • 30 sugar flowers • Jelly Tots Roll out the glacé icing and cut out 10 flowers the size of the Marie biscuit. Using a small blob of butter icing, stick these to the biscuits and press flat. Using a little butter icing, stick a cupcake case to the flower.

Cut off one side of a jelly ring and use a dab of butter icing to stick this to the righthand side of the cupcake case. Hold it in place for a few seconds until it sticks. Stick three sugar flowers to the front of each cup, for decoration.

Fill an icing bag with the pink butter icing and decorate the rim of the cup. Fill each cup with Jelly Tots.

about the book Easy Party Treats For Children (Random House Struik) is ideal for busy parents who want to make something special for a party, but just don’t have the time to fiddle with intricate cake designs and patterns. The recipes are easy to follow so you can also involve your children in the preparation. Janette includes basic recipes for perennial favourites, like lamingtons and fridge squares. She then breaks her suggestions down into broad themes, ranging from princess tea parties to aliens and creepy crawlies. Her fun suggestions will appeal especially to younger children. The book is available at all good bookstores.

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reader’s blog

witness your child’s life Parents need to be wholly involved, on all levels, says

t

hroughout my career in education I have been fascinated by what makes some families happy, healthy and well-functioning, while others are wrought with discord and disharmony. The same applies for any community, including schools. Some schools are happy places whereas others seem somewhat devoid of soul in their endless pursuit of results above everything.

What is it that separates a disjointed community (including families) from a harmonious one? I am mindful that the answer to this question is multi-layered.

However, I am certain that true community cannot be achieved if one vital ingredient is missing – authentic presence. I say authentic presence because it implies so much more than simply being physically present. It is in fact multidimensional and enhances the purpose, quality and depth of the relationships you have with others, especially with your child or children.

Eckhart Tolle describes presence as “a still and alert attention, a type of consciousness, which causes you to

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awaken to yourself and to the other in your relationships”.

In this sense, presence means more than simply “being there” but implies a sacred stillness in which by sharing your presence with others, and others sharing their presence with you, you free yourself from your own ego and desires and provide the opportunity for authentic relationships to develop.

Parents face a difficult challenge in the busy 21st century with all its stress and demands. Yet, in these demanding times, how often do you show authentic presence to your child? Now remember, when I talk of authentic presence I’m not asking how often you are with your child. You can be watching a movie, sitting in the lounge together or eating dinner and not be authentically present in the least.

So, the question is, when last did you bring your “whole” self to interact with your child; where you listened, took a deep interest and where the rest of the world did not matter in that moment because all that mattered was your child?

Sadly, in most schools we have many children who I could at best describe as “social orphans” – they are fed and clothed, and given all they need to lead a supposedly normal existence, yet their parents are completely absent from their emotional and spiritual needs. Children yearn for

acknowledgement, recognition and affirmation, and this must come from the home, first and foremost. A line from the film Shall We Dance sums this up: “Everybody needs someone to witness their lives.”

I would like to challenge you as parents to be the witnesses to your children’s lives. But beyond that, to be truly and authentically present to their needs, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally too. Take time out of your busy schedule to show your children the love they deserve, rather than giving them the “scraps” after a long day at work. Showing authentic presence to your children is no mean feat, but presence is about taking responsibility for your fields of influence and, as a parent, by teaching your children authentic presence; they in turn will exercise this in their own lives and relationships.

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

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

St Cyprian’s Preparatory School head Justin Skea.

w

fyi

e celebrate our heritage with National Braai Day every September, and I’m sure a National Cake Day would be just as popular. The Americans have one on 26 November. They even have a National Chocolate Cupcake Day, which they celebrate in October. But why is the glorious cake such a prominent celebration symbol? The word itself is of Viking origin, from the Norse word “kaka”. It is believed that the “cake” the Vikings made was just a slab of dough baked until hard. Archaeologists have found evidence of the ancient Egyptians and Greeks baking cake; sweetened with honey, nuts and dried fruit, mostly for religious purposes.

It was also religion that most likely moulded the cake into the round shape we know today. The Greeks made moonshaped honey cakes or bread, which were offered to the Moon Goddess at the temple of Artemis. Incidentally, this is also where the idea of birthday candles was born – the Greeks added them to the cake to give it a lunar glow.

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

when did things change?

Initially only the rich enjoyed cake, as the ingredients were too expensive and baking utensils were not readily available. There are conflicting theories as to who made the first cake that resembles the sweet confectionery we know today. Before this, the words “cake” and “bread” were interchangeable, and no one is really sure when cake became the preferred term. In the Middle Ages, the Germans baked cakes in the shape of a baby Jesus, which they placed in a cloth to celebrate his birthday. This tradition later morphed into the Kinderfest, which was the celebration of a young child’s birthday. The Germans also implemented a special, sweet layer cake, called Geburtstagtorten (birthday cake), which was in essence the birth of the modern cake.

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By the middle of the 18th century, eggs replaced yeast as the raising agent for cakes and in 1843 a British pharmacist, Alfred Bird, manufactured the first modern version of baking powder.

Mass production began with the Industrial Revolution in the early 19th century and baking utilities and utensils became more advanced and accessible. Since then, cake has taken on its own unique style and flavour depending on a country’s tradition and culinary tastes.

cake trends

a slice of history From a humble slab of dough to elaborate cake pop – MARINA ZIETSMAN gets stuck into the evolution of the modern cake.

1900–1910 The words “happy birthday” appear on cakes for the first time, when the song Happy Birthday to You gains popularity.

1940–1949 In 1940, box cake mix is introduced and in 1948 ready-to-spread cake icing.

1950–1959 Ken Wood develops the Kenwood Chef in the 1950s, improving the way housewives make their homebaked treats.

1960–1969 Women fight for gender and race equality, putting their struggle with ovens and dough on the backburner. This is the era when mass-produced treats start filling shop shelves.

1980–1989 Toy decorations become the in thing to place on birthday cakes.

1990–1999 Photo cakes become the latest cake trend.

2000–2009 Sex in the City’s Carrie Bradshaw buys a cupcake from a vendor in New York City, and a new fad begins.

2010–now Programmes like Cake Boss make people realise there are no limits when it comes to shaping, baking or decorating a cake. You can even make cake pops, basically balls of mashed up cake, to delight your guests.

Coming soon Look out for peek-a-boo cakes. They appear simple on the outside, but once cut, a surprise is revealed; from different coloured layers to messages or shapes.

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book extract

twin cooks Winner of Australia’s first Junior MasterChef, Isabella Bliss, and her twin Sofia, who was in the top four, share two of their favourite recipes.

the twins’ pizza recipe Makes 4–6 medium to large pizza bases • 500ml lukewarm water • 14g dry yeast • 2 tsp sugar • 1½ tsp salt • 1kg plain flour 1 Preheat the oven to 220°C. 2 Place the water and yeast into a large pot.

3 Stir the yeast, using your fingers, until dissolved and the mixture looks milky. The water must not be hot or the yeast will be destroyed.

4 Add the sugar, salt and 850g of flour to the water and mix until a soft dough forms.

5 Add the remaining flour, if required.

6 Knead the dough for five to seven minutes or until it is smooth and soft to touch.

7 If you like, you can do this in the large pot, and leave the dough to rise there, too.

8 Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic film, then place a clean tea towel on top. Leave to rise for about one hour, depending on the weather – we put ours in the sun to rise faster – or until the dough has doubled in size.

9 Lightly grease a square, round or rectangular baking tray for cooking the pizza, or sprinkle the tray with semolina instead.

10 Take a large handful of the dough, sprinkle the top with a little flour, and roll out as thin or thick as you like on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin.

11 Flatten the dough into the shape of the baking tray using your fingers and place on the tray, making sure the dough is spread out to the edges.

12 Spread two to three tablespoons of pizza sauce on top for a medium pizza and add the toppings of your choice.

13 Cook the pizza in the oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden on top and underneath, then remove from the oven and add the cheese. Return to the oven for a few minutes; when the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden, the pizza is ready.

Tip: To avoid a floury, messy benchtop, or when I am in a hurry, I often don’t use a rolling pin. Instead, spread a little oil on a baking tray with your fingertips and then, with the oil still on your fingers, position a ball of the pizza dough in the centre and begin to spread it out using your fingers. Flip the dough over so the oil covers both sides and continue spreading it out around the tray; this makes the base and crust crunchy.

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basic pizza sauce The best tomatoes to use are fresh ones, but canned diced tomatoes or a jar of tomato passata will also do the trick. Please don’t be tempted to use tomato paste as it is too concentrated.

• • • • •

x 400g can diced tomatoes, mashed with a fork, or 500ml tomato passata 1 3 swirls extra virgin olive oil a good pinch of sea salt 1–2 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped pinch of dried oregano

1 Pour the canned tomatoes or passata into a bowl.

2 Add the remaining ingredients and mix until well combined.

3 Using a large spoon spread the sauce onto the pizza base about 1 to 2cm from the edge of the dough.

easy cupcakes made with cream The use of cream rather than butter makes them extremely quick and easy, leaving you time to enjoy decorating them.

Makes 12 • 310ml cream • 200g castor sugar • 2 eggs • dash of vanilla extract • 320g self-raising flour, sifted Simple icing • 2 Tbsp softened, unsalted butter • Few drops vanilla extract or essence of your choice • 160g icing sugar • warm water, as required 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2 Place the cream and sugar in a large bowl and mix well with a wooden spoon or beaters.

3 Add the eggs and vanilla, and continue to mix, then gradually add the self-raising flour and stir until well combined.

4 Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cupcake cases and fill each one with about two tablespoons of the mixture.

5 Cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes or until the cakes bounce back when pressed in the centre.

6 Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

7 While the cupcakes are baking, make the icing.

8 Place the butter, vanilla and icing sugar in a bowl, and add small amounts of water as you mix, until the icing is a spreadable consistency.

9 Spread the icing on the cool cupcakes with a knife or make a firmer icing and pipe it onto the cupcakes using a piping bag with a 1cm nozzle. Decorate with your favourite toppings or lollies, or simply sprinkle icing sugar on top of the cakes and enjoy.

The Bliss sisters will be appearing at the new-look Good Food & Wine Show at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town from 23 May to 26 May. The show will be in Joburg from 21 September to 24 September.

magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPHs: Good Food & Wine Show / Penguin

a

strong family cooking tradition meant that the teenagers were mixing up batter in the kitchen from as young as one year old. By the age of three the girls were making fresh pasta and pizza dough, and by five Isabella was experimenting with her own dishes. They recently published a cookbook, A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That (Penguin), with their mother Sylvana Spina, and they dream of opening their own restaurant, which will be named “Issofia”.

Isabella shares her funniest moment on the MasterChef show which aired in Australia in 2010. “I made lemon meringue cupcakes and won one of the Mystery Box dessert challenges. During the break the judges scoffed them all, there wasn’t a crumb left.” Sofia has this advice for budding young MasterChefs, “You have to have loads of passion but, above all, you must have fun in the kitchen. You can’t be afraid to experiment. Not all our kitchen inventions are successful. Every experience is about having fun and in our kitchen we have laughed while learning.” She adds, “Mom, Isabella and I have always cooked together. As toddlers we started making pizza. And we love making cakes. Once, when Isabella and I were about five, we wanted to invent our own cupcake recipe so we went into the kitchen and had a go, with a little guidance from Mom. I remember taking the cupcakes out of the oven and feeling so proud. Although we now have a much bigger repertoire we still love making the dishes we made when we first started cooking.”

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May 2013

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nutrition

safe party snacks With the increase in allergies you’re likely to have at least one guest who can’t eat certain foods. ANÉL LEWIS looks at ways to keep everyone happy, and fed.

your party If you’re hosting, ask parents to include allergy information when they reply to your party invitation. This will give you time to plan well in advance. You can also discuss snack food options with parents.

• Bonnie Bester, entrepreneur and mother to three children, one with food allergies, makes sure she always has fruit to serve at parties. “I also do my best to find party ‘sweets’ that are allergen-free.

• Sandwiches with honey, a meat-extract spread or cucumber are usually a safe bet and can be cut into fab shapes with cookie cutters. Bonnie gets allergen-free chocolate, which she uses to dip strawberries and other fruit into.

• When setting up, put food containing allergens on separate tables and have different serving bowls and spoons.

• Be mindful that children with allergies may feel left out, or be sensitive about their condition, so don’t make a big scene of putting out their food.

• Keep the labels and packaging of foods that you do serve, in case concerned parents want more information about the food on offer.

• Assure parents that they are also welcome to bring their own party snacks, if that will make them feel more comfortable. You could also invite parents to stay for the party, if they want to monitor what their child is eating. If they’re happy to leave their child in your care, make sure you have their contact details should a medical emergency arise. They may also leave emergency medication with you if their child is at risk of anaphylactic shock.

as a guest If you are going to a party with a child who is allergic, keep a stash of beautifully decorated allergen-free cupcakes or cakes in the refrigerator so you have treats on hand to take with you. Bonnie also prepares a snack pack for her daughter, filled with her favourite treats that she can eat.

• Take your own food, and some extra that your child can share with others at the party.

• As soon as your child is old enough, make sure he knows which ingredients he may not eat, and how to ask an adult to check that these items are not in the food being served.

Explain in detail to the host what your child can’t eat, what would happen if the food is eaten, and how to respond. Leave your contact details and any medication with the host.

real wellness

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May 2013

magazine joburg

PHOTOGRAPH: matthys van Lill

t

he best way to avoid tears and a possible medical situation is by planning ahead and knowing what you can serve. Common allergens for children include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, shellfish and fish.

chocolate chip and orange biscuits Egg free; nut free; alternatively dairy free Makes 25–30

• Try these chocolate chip and orange biscuits from Tammi Forman’s Cooking for an Allergy-free Lifestyle (Random House Struik). Sufferers of a food allergy can’t “take a chance” when it comes to being offered food. She provides recipes that are safe, delicious and easy to make.

more recipe inspiration • Allergy Proof Recipes for Kids by Lynne Marie Rominger and Leslie Hammond (Fair Winds Press) • Sugar-free Gluten-free Baking and Desserts by Kelly E Keough (Ulysses Press) • Ultimate Allergy-free Snack Cookbook: Over 100 Kid-friendly Recipes for the Allergic Child by Judi Zucker and Shari Zucker (Square One Publishers)

magazine joburg

• ¾ cup butter or margarine at room temperature (or a dairy-free option) • ¼ cup icing sugar, sifted • 1 cup self-raising flour • ½ tsp salt • ½ -1 tsp grated orange zest, with no rind • 60g plain chocolate chips (or a dairy-free option) 1 Mix all the ingredients, except the chocolate chips, in a bowl until just blended. Sprinkle over the chocolate chips and mix them in.

2 On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough until pliable, form into a ball and cover with clingfilm. Chill in the fridge for one hour or until you are ready to bake.

3 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the dough onto a lightly floured surface to about 0,5cm thick. Cut into shapes using a variety of cookie cutters and place on either sheets of greased baking paper or baking trays sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

4 Bake for 10 minutes, keeping a close watch as they burn easily. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

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resource

accessories and services 101 Party Hire Assist with tables, chairs, crockery, cutlery, glassware and marquees. They have a range of table linen and can assist you with table centrepieces, draping and themed events. Fourways. Contact: 011 027 7626, sales@101partyhire.co.za or visit 101partyhire.co.za ABC Kids Party Time Specialists in party packs filled with sweets as well as toys in buckets, boxes and loot bags. Cakes, cupcakes and platters on request. Prices vary. North and west suburbs. Contact: 082 301 6875 or abckidspartytime@gmail.com

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A Wizards Jumping Castles Jumping castles and water slides for hire.

Roodepoort and northern suburbs.

Contact: 011 472 3154, 072 220 6063, info@wizardscastles.co.za or visit wizardscastles.co.za A-Z Creative Entertainment Offers junior chefs parties, drumming workshops and combo parties. Catering, party equipment and operators available for hire. Contact: 011 682 2660, 072 373 8963, zelda@ creative-entertainment.co.za or visit creative-entertainment.co.za Balloon Magic Provides balloon decor and sculpturing, helium balloons and table and chair hire. Also balloon deliveries.

Contact: 011 892 4219, cindy@balloonmagic.co.za or visit balloon-magic.co.za B-Day Parties Party shop and coordinators.

Contact: 021 853 1727, linda@bdayparties. co.za or visit bdayparties.co.za Bearfoot Bounce Jumping Castles Well maintained jumping castles and water slides for hire. Contact: 082 443 0170, info@bearfootbounce.co.za or visit bearfootbounce.co.za BellaBagheera For customised invitations, party favour stickers, cupcake toppers and more. They can tailor designs to go with your theme. Contact: 021 712 4710, 072 722 7758, info@bellabagheera. co.za or visit bellabagheera.co.za

Bouncy Jumping Castles Suppliers of waterballs, water slides, jumping castles, popcorn and candyfloss machines, tables and chairs, urns, chair covers and tablecloths. Woodmead. Contact: 084 679 4808, bev@bouncyjumpingcastles.co.za or visit bouncyjumpingcastles.co.za Bubble Ball Entertainment Children can walk, run, dive and roll on water without getting wet in a Bubble Ball. On-site supervision is provided. Contact Ricardo: 082 694 6173, info@bubbleball.co.za or visit bubbleball.co.za Bumpy Jumpy Castles Large range of jumping castles, including the Dragon’s Hideaway, the Wishful Wizard’s Castle

magazine joburg

illustrations: shutterSTOCK.COM

Your comprehensive guide of everything party related. Compiled by SIMONE JEFFERY

or a choo-choo train. They deliver, set up and collect. Contact: 082 227 8537, fun@bumpyjumpycastles.co.za or visit bumpyjumpycastles.co.za Cakes & Castles Offers jumping castles, water slides, birthday cakes, children’s tables and chairs, decor with linen, balloons and party packs. North and west suburbs. Contact: 083 774 1012, 083 228 0343, info@cakesandcastles.co.za or visit cakesandcastles.co.za Crazy Concepts Playground equipment and toys, ball ponds, rock climbing walls, funny mirrors, rides and jumping castles sold. Delivery and installation countrywide. Contact: 021 850 0102 or info@crazyconcepts.co.za Creative Concepts They specialise in invitations, candles, chocolates, boxes and other packaging and souvenirs to suit your theme and colour scheme. Also supply draping, linen, decor, tables and chairs, catering and party coordinating. Contact: 079 038 3622 or djfreight@mweb.co.za Creative Labels An online store offering unique personalised gift labels, gift wrap, party pack labels, school labels, ironons, personalised planners, chalkboard stickers, gift vouchers and more. Contact: 082 329 5015, pam@creativelabels.co.za or visit creativelabels.co.za Creatix Design House Designer photo books, invitations and calendars. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 391 9740, 083 878 1831 or cindy.creatix@gmail.com

magazine joburg

Crystal Print Designers of personalised children’s invitations and stationary for all occasions. Nationwide. Contact: 031 205 7284, info@crystalprintsa.co.za or visit crystalprintsa.co.za Dino-Mite Jumpers Rents out a range of clean and sanitised jumping castles and water slides. As well as cutlery, crockery, chairs and tables. Central, northern and western suburbs. Contact: 082 449 5599, dino-mite@iburst.co.za or visit dinomitejumpers.co.za Enchanted Creations For invitations, personalised banners, jumping castles, themed decor, accessories, themed bags, 3D cakes and more. Contact: 084 567 5220, info@enchantedcreations.co.za or visit enchantedcreations.co.za Fourways Castles Hires a selection of jumping castles, water slides and bubble machines. Enquire for pricing. Fourways and surrounds. Contact: 071 351 8420, 082 755 8355, info@fourwayscastles. co.za or visit fourwayscastles.co.za Function Fotos & Design Designs invitations, name tags, stickers and personalised party stationery. Northern suburbs. Contact: 083 379 5545, tlwdesigns@telkomsa.net or visit function-fotos.com Fun in the Sun Castle Hire Rents out slip-’n-slides and jumping castles such as a dinosaur, pirate ship and standard castles. They also offer tables and chairs.

Costs start from R400. West Rand.

Contact: 011 678 8149, 084 619 8944, castlefun@mweb.co.za or visit castlefun.co.za Fun O’ Rama Repairs, manufactures and hires out jumping castles and inflatables.

Costs vary. East Rand. Contact: 011 826 5275, 083 457 7749, info@funorama.co.za or visit funorama.co.za Gladiator Inflatables Hires out a variety of inflatable jumping castles, water slides and mini obstacle courses. Contact: 011 672 4861, rentals@gladiatorinflatables. co.za or visit gladiatorinflatables.co.za Happy Treats Frozen Foods Supplies ice cream tubs, sticks and cakes, frozen yoghurts and desserts, syrups and toppings and party packs.

Weltevreden Park. Contact: 083 214 5820, orders@happytreats.co.za or visit happytreats.co.za House of Princesses An online shop that offers dainty flower girl and ballet dresses, accessories, swimming costumes and various seasonal items. For more info: visit houseofprincesses.co.za In Good Company Shop online for imported and local linen, tableware, decorations and party favours. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 447 1628, 079 041 8927, contactus@ingoodcompany.co.za or visit ingoodcompany.co.za In-Zane Kreeyations Book jumping castles, water slides, party supplies, popcorn machines and children’s tables and chairs online. They deliver, set up and

collect in the Joburg area. Helderkruin.

Contact: 082 418 0155, jumping@in-zane. co.za or visit in-zane.co.za Its Mine Labels Invitations offered in a variety of themes, which can be paired with party stickers. Magnetised invitation packs also offered as well as personalised ribbon and wrapping paper. Nationwide deliveries. Contact: 011 646 3640, admin@ itsmine.co.za or visit itsmine.co.za Iyooh Parties Hires out chocolate fountains, candyfloss and popcorn machines, jumping castles and water slides.

Contact: 083 719 1343, iyooh-parties@ gmail.com or visit iyooh-parties.co.za Jeremy Kusner Productions For party entertainment from carousels, mini trains, disco and karaoke parties, mechanical bulls and circus acts. Sound and lighting equipment available. Contact: 011 608 1485, 0861 112 876, info@jkproductions. co.za or visit jkproductions.co.za Jitterbugs An online shop for magnet invitations, party-pack stickers, personalised T-shirts and party pack gifts. Magnetic invitations from R10 each.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 031 261 1030, orders@jitterbugs.co.za or visit jitterbugs.co.za Jump Junction Hire jumping castles such as a princess castle, a fairy island and more.

They also rent out tables and chairs. North and western suburbs. Contact: 072 298 4024, brenda@jumpjunction.co.za or visit jumpjunction.co.za

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resource Just Labels Supplies colourful personalised stickers for children’s birthday presents. Choose your own wording and pictures on their website.

Postage nationwide. 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, umbrellas, crockery and cutlery, including tea sets for children, children’s furniture, jumping castles and more. Contact: 011 886 2336, 011 789 6718, kpr1@telkomsa.net or visit katespartyrentals.co.za Kiddie Junction An online store that offers a wide range of items for party packs and a wide selection of toys.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 073 163 8703, karen@kiddiejunction.co.za or visit kiddiejunction.co.za Kiddie Rides Automated children’s rides for hire, delivered and set up for your party. Contact: 011 822 9265, a_jordaan@mweb.co.za or visit kiddierides.co.za Kids Labels Offers a wide variety of gift labels and personalised labels posted countrywide. Contact: 021 794 6637 or visit kidslabels.co.za Kids Like Us Piñata Factory Offers a vast range of handcrafted piñatas to compliment any theme or occasion, and if they don’t have what you’re looking for they’ll custom make a design for you. Delivery nationwide. Contact: 072 228 0563, kids_like_us@live.com or visit kidslikeuspinatas.com Kids Party Packs They supply themed party ware, serviettes, paper plates, piñatas and party packs. Party packs from R25–R35. Contact: 082 887 4298, info@kidspartypacks.co.za or visit kidspartypacks.co.za Kidz Cardz & Party Buckets Personalised party buckets, party packs, invitations, piñatas and themed bottled water, juice or milkshake. Nationwide deliveries. Contact: 072 584 7083, info@ kidzcardz.co.za or visit kidzcardz.co.za Labels Inc An online shop offering a range of personalised stationery including party invitations, gift labels and cards.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 082 556 4232, 082 897 7799, lauren@labelsinc. co.za or visit labelsinc.co.za Little Occasions Children’s Designer Partyware For a collection of designer partyware via online shopping. Contact: 011 071 7436, 083 415 6162, info@ littleoccasions.co.za, visit littleoccasions. co.za or visit their Facebook page Love Letters An online store that sells locally produced, modern and creative stationery as well as placemats, personalised gifts and organisers.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 651 8074, lovelettersstationery@gmail.com or visit lovelettersstationery.co.za Luc’s Parties From tables, chairs, table cloths, chair covers, tie backs, themed plates, cups, birthday cakes, cupcakes, party packs and invites. West Rand and surrounds. Contact: 079 883 2391, lucille@lucsparties.co.za or visit lucsparties.co.za

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Lulu Belles This boutique stocks patterned Lou Harvey lunch packets that are ideal for party packs. Benoni.

Contact: 083 601 8010 or orders@ lulubelles.co.za Macaroon Personalised, online stationery, which can be designed with your personal photographs to create invitations and more. Also offers gift stickers. Nationwide.

Contact: 011 782 9529 ext 202, orders@ macaroon.co.za or visit macaroon.co.za Matilda’s Partyware Inspirational designer paper party ware delivered to your door anywhere in SA. Contact: 084 777 5125, ebeth@partyware.co.za or visit partyware.co.za M&M Party Supplies Stocks Disney character paper plates, cups, napkins, party bags, balloons and table covers.

They deliver in Joburg. Contact: 072 207 7331 or manuelascalone@gmail.com Money Box Party Packs Unique and affordable party packs. Money box range includes blank, set design, DIY colouringin and DIY licensed stickers. Contact: 082 422 7872 or visit jorsam.co.za Monkey Trix Hires a variety of Step 2 Plastic play equipment for parties. They deliver on a Friday and collect on a Monday to avoid the post-party blues for the children. Contact: 011 462 6954, 082 384 3170, sally@monkeytrix.co.za or visit monkeytrix.co.za Moonshine Beverages Frosty Fred slush, Frosty Fruit smoothies and Hi-Spiritz cocktail machines for hire.

They deliver, set up and collect after the party. Contact: 011 973 3967, info@moonshinebev.co.za or visit moonshinebev.co.za Nox Designs Personalised labels for birthday gifts and party packs.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 082 496 2930, nstark@mweb.co.za or visit their Facebook page Parties 4 Africa An online shopping site offering a wide range of party products with over 50 children’s themes to choose from. Delivery is overnight and nationwide. Contact Cheryl: 035 772 6592, 083 635 5353, info@parties4africa. co.za or visit parties4africa.co.za Party Buckets Personalised party buckets filled with sweets and treats and printed party invitations to suite any theme and occasion. Also offers tables, chairs and more. Brakpan, East Rand. Contact: 073 327 0795 or yelmia@telkomsa.net Photo Booth Creations A portable photo booth with a professional operator and a box of dress-up clothes and accessories. Contact: 083 557 7337, info@photoboothcreations.co.za or visit photoboothcreations.co.za Photobooth Inc Hires out photo booths and a box of props. Guests press a button and the booth automatically takes a 2x4-inch, high-quality digital photo that prints in seconds. Nationwide. Contact: 083 377 9449, rob@photoboothinc.co.za or visit photoboothinc.co.za Piñata and Balloon Africa Sells piñatas in any shape, size or colour, as well as balloon art decor. Nationwide. Contact: 082 457 2276, mgwyther@mweb.co.za or visit pinatas.co.za magazine joburg

Piñatas Treat filled piñatas custom designed to suit your party’s theme.

Contact: 084 696 8500 or lindy@ discoverymail.co.za Sally’s Party Services Include jumping castles, clowns, face painters, magicians, puppeteers, animals, crafts, rides and cakes. Based in the East Rand. Contact: 011 974 9520, sally@sallys.co.za or visit sallys.co.za Sensation Lab Manufactures and hires out Bedouin tents, furniture, dance floors, marquees and fairy and disco lights.

Nationwide. Contact: 011 023 5940, info@sensationlab.co.za or visit sensationlab.co.za Sheer Magic Party Specialists Equipment for children’s parties, including popcorn, candy floss and bubble machines, and helium balloons. Beverly Gardens, Bryanston. Contact: 011 789 7847, magic@sheermagic.co.za or visit sheermagic.co.za Star Castles Suppliers of fun inflatables like jumping castles, mechanical bulls, Zorb balls and more. They also provide entertainers, cakes, and party accessories for themed parties. Contact: 011 679 5699, 082 372 9177, info@starcastles. co.za or visit starcastles.co.za Stick with us! Design and printing of personalised party stationery including invitations, thank-you stickers and cards, party box stickers, banners and posters and T-shirt printing. Contact: 082 377 0513 or mandy@stickwithus.co.za Sunrise Sweets Buy an assortment of treats, sweets and chocolate in bulk.

Roodepoort. Contact: 011 475 8366 or visit sunrisesweets.co.za SunshineParties Designs party printables for birthday parties. They sell bunting, digital invitations, cupcake toppers, food labels and can customise designs to suit your needs and budget. International deliveries. Contact: 031 764 6350, parties@limelightwebsites.co.za or visit sunshineshabby.com Super Duper Castles Provides jumping castles, inflatable slides, children’s chairs and tables as well as party packs. Fourways and surrounding areas.

Contact: 083 457 3402, info@superduper-castles.co.za or visit super-dupercastles.co.za The Baker’s Warehouse One-stop shop for all your baking and catering supplies and ingredients. From cake decorations, dry baking ingredients, chocolate and nuts to all kinds of packaging and novelty tins available for hire. Bryanston. Contact: 011 706 5010, apadop@icon.co.za, bakerswarehouse.co.za The Toy Factory Shop Offering a range of gifts for parties, small toys for party packs and party buckets, balloons, art and crafts and more. Nationwide. Contact: 031 701 2968, info@thetoyfactoryshop.co.za or visit thetoyfactoryshop.co.za Tinkle-Pea Offers gifts and party favours.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 082 804 5678, jenny@tinklepea.co.za or visit tinklepea.co.za TLC Caterers Offering themed parties, jumping castles, children’s rides, candy floss machines and themed chair magazine joburg

and table covers for hire, as well as catering, flowers, marquees and more.

Nationwide. Contact: 031 464 8619, 082 871 0004, info@tlccaterers.co.za TLL Agencies They specialise in themed parties, supplying personalised T-shirts, aprons and caps for children and adults, and catering. Sweetie buckets or party packs, snacks for guests, and thank-you gifts are also available.

Contact: Tracey: 082 320 3529 or Tandey: 072 123 4506 West Pack Lifestyle For a vast selection of party products. To locate a branch: visit westpacklifestyle.co.za Wrap-It A store offering a treasure trove of ribbons, wrappings, beads, carrier bags and hand-made boxes. Greenside.

Contact: 011 782 6471 Write-stuff Stationery Shop Sells invitations, cake decorations, bunting, service totes and lots more. They also stock helium balloons. Parkview. Contact: 011 481 3333, 082 452 1898 or writestuff@mweb.co.za Xtreme Fun Have good, clean fun with the range of activities, including mechanical bulls, jumping castles, pedal carts and a rocket shoot. Durban, Joburg and Cape Town. Contact: 082 390 0900 or nadzroux@gmail.com

animal parties Aragon Stables Pony Parties Offers safe reliable ponies for young children.

They will plan games and treasure hunts for the party. Muldersdrift. Contact: 082 666 3728, jenny@aragonstables.co.za or visit aragonstables.co.za Barnyard Kids A memorable farmyard experience in the city. Go either DIY, or sit back and let them do it all for you. Midrand. Contact: 011 024 6062, info@barnyardkids.co.za or visit barnyardkids.co.za Crazykidz Farmyard A venue that provides a full party-planning service.

Theme parties such as Teddy Bears’ Picnic and Farmyard include decor and party packs. Kensington B. Contact: 082 389 9153, info@crazykidzfarmyard.co.za or visit crazykidzfarmyard.co.za Croc City Crocodile Farm Touch or hold a crocodile hatchling under professional supervision. Sit back and relax as they set up. Catering and entertainment is taken care of in the separate party area.

Nietgedacht. Contact: 083 657 7561, 083 321 1016, info@croccity.co.za or visit croccity.co.za Drakes Party Farmyard Children can enjoy pony rides and feed the farm animals while being supervised by three staff members. There is a sandpit, tractors, a jungle gym and a covered lapa. Linbro Park. Contact: 084 941 8219, 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 various animals. Northriding. Contact: 083 307 0790, farmyardfrendz@hotmail. com or visit farmyardfrendz.co.za May 2013

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resource Horse Haven Pony party venue where children can enjoy activities such as painting horse shoes, making carrot cakes, treasure hunts and more.

Kyalami. Contact: 072 014 9090, horsehaven@mweb.co.za or visit horsehaven.co.za Jungle Tots Farmyard An outdoor venue with space for 40 children and 40 adults and access to their crockery and kitchen equipment. Children can enjoy unlimited pony rides and animal feeding. Midrand. Contact: 083 377 7571 or jenco@ibi.co.za Mobile Zoo Interactive 1–2 hour sessions with a wide selection of special and exotic animals and creatures at your venue or theirs. Contact: 083 299 6900, info@mobilezoo.co.za or visit mobilezoo.co.za Montecasino Bird Gardens – Flamingo Café Children can share a party with their friends, with over 200 birds, more than 600 other species of animals and the Flights of Fantasy Bird Show. Fourways. Contact: 011 511 1203, welile@montebg.co.za or visit montecasino.co.za Snake City Children can touch harmless snakes in the pit and have photos taken with pythons. They supply a marquee tent, tables and chairs.

Edenvale. Contact: 011 453 3257, 084 916 4737, wildgear@telkomsa.net or visit snakecity.co.za

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Sun Valley Pony Parties Packages include party venue hire with play equipment, pony rides and games.

Kyalami. Contact: 082 571 0309, info@sunvalleystables.co.za or visit sunvalleystables.co.za The Lion Park Play with the lion cubs, feed the giraffe and go on a game drive.

Lanseria. Contact: 011 691 9905, info@ lionpark.com or visit lion-park.com Wild and Earthly A mobile farmyard where children get up close with a range of popular animals. Contact: 084 550 0120, lisa@wildandearthly.co.za or visit wildandearthly.co.za

art and craft parties Artjamming Painting parties include a canvas and nontoxic acrylic paints, brushes and aprons. Melrose Arch and Lonehill. Contact Lonehill: 011 465 5778, lonehill@artjamming.co.za; or Melrose: 011 684 1608, melrose@artjamming.co.za or visit artjamming.co.za Art on One Children get to freely express their creativity. Acrylic paints, brushes, disposable aprons and canvasses or templates supplied. Bedfordview. Contact: 011 450 1059 or michele@artonone.co.za Bambury Stocks a range of sticky mosaics to decorate diaries, mirrors, jewellery, cards or notes. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 680 5976, nikiw@ bambury.co.za or visit bambury.co.za

Beadworx Activities vary from making bracelets, cellphone and bag accessories to key rings, mobiles and wine-glass markers. Contact: 083 479 5527 or soul. worx@yahoo.com Buddy Bear Stuff and dress your own bear. Bear party kits and party coordinating available. Contact: 073 761 7045, buddybearparties@gmail.com; or Colleen: 072 239 4624, colleen@perfecttouchsa. co.za or visit buddybear.co.za Color Café A ceramic-painting and mosaic studio. Paint or mosaic a useful or decorative item and they will fire and glaze it, or grout it for you. Bring your own snacks, cake and drinks. Hyde Park.

Contact: 011 341 0734, 083 566 4126, cilla@colorcafe.co.za or visit colorcafe.co.za Cool Kidz | Crafty Kidz They offer crafty kits for children for parties. Each child gets a pack with all the necessary tools and crafts to do a project of your choice. Nationwide postage. Contact: 079 873 0546, info@coolkidz.co.za or visit coolkidz.co.za Crafts for Kids A selection of crafts and party favours, with prices starting at R15 for a kit. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 293 7208, sales@craftsforkids.co.za or visit craftsforkids.co.za Crafty Corner They come to your venue and entertain the children with a variety of age- and gender-appropriate party crafts. Contact: 011 782 0351, admin@ craftycorner.co.za or visit craftycorner.co.za

Kidz Only They supply sand art: home kits for your own sand art party from R200. Gift card packs from R12. Nationwide delivery.

Contact: 083 453 4032, admin@kidzonly. co.za or visit kidzonly.co.za Mosaic Works Offers DIY mini mosaic kits, mosaic tiles and wooden bases.

Available online. For more info: visit mosaicworks.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.

Parkwood. Contact: 011 646 0058, info@ moyo.co.za or visit moyo.co.za Perler Beads A craft activity which will keep the children busy for hours.

Finished creations can be used for fridge magnets, sun catchers, jewellery and more.

Nationwide. Contact: 082 856 8140, info@ perlerbeads.co.za or visit perlerbeads.co.za Pottery Junxion They offer ceramic painting and mosaic parties for children 6 years and older. Children paint on a variety of items including cupcake and ice-cream trinket boxes or mosaic a mirror or heart. Edenvale. Contact: 011 453 2721, rosie@potteryjunxion.co.za or visit potteryjunxion.co.za Scrapbook Den Creative scrapbooking parties for children 8 years and older. The venue has a spacious garden to play in once the class is over. Edenvale. Contact: 011 453 2724, 082 552 4332, j.mac@ iafrica.com or visit scrapbookden.co.za

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Scrapbooking on the Move Children create a frame, journal or mini-book. Contact: 083 409 7434, dorian@gam.co.za or visit scrapbookingonthemove.co.za Seedpod Studio Creative parties for children 6 years and older. Options available are sewing and beading a felt cupcake, painting a canvas, decorating with beads and ceramic inserts and more. Broadacres and Parkhurst. Contact Fourways: 011 465 0375; Parkhurst: 011 447 0006, info@seedpodstudio.co.za or visit seedpodstudio.co.za Smudge Art and Play Centre Offers a private-party room with tailor-made themes and art activities supervised by qualified artists. Also make handpainted and decorated invitations and party packs. Craighall. Contact: 011 501 0234, sandra@smudgeart.co.za or visit smudgeart.co.za Strange Blue Duck Stop-frame animation parties where children make their own animated movies using plasticine, plastic insects and more. Suitable for children 9 years and older. Greenside. Contact: 082 815 3918, richard@strangeblueduck.co.za or visit strangeblueduck.co.za Umfundi Books Get creative with puppet making party packs, activity packs, stationery kits and workbooks. Postage or to your door delivery available. Contact: 082 561 6039, info@umfundibooks.co.za or visit umfundibooks.co.za

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cakes and catering Annica’s Designer Cakes For customised cakes, sweets, unique party packs and cupcake decorating party activities.

Ferndale. Contact: 011 326 1526, 011 326 0937, annicas@mweb.co.za or visit annicascakes.co.za Bake My Day Customised cakes and cupcakes. Contact: 082 829 5514, 076 412 4275, lynette@bake-my-day.co.za or visit bake-my-day.co.za Belles Patisserie They create cakes and catering for children’s parties, including goodie bags. Birnam. Contact: 082 944 4018, linda@bellespatisserie.co.za or visit bellespatisserie.co.za Bellisimo CK Creators of birthday cakes, confectionary items, and themed party packs. An online buying service for baking supplies is available. Buccleuch. Contact: 084 598 9544, bellisimock@gmail.com or visit bellisimocakes.wozaonline.co.za Cake Pop Jazz Create your own cake pops using this non-stick, portable machine that makes 12 in four minutes.

Contact: 082 887 3813, jazzneu@yahoo. com or visit their Facebook page Cakes 4 Kiddies Eggless and normal cakes in chocolate, chilli chocolate, vanilla and granadilla sponge; eggless vanilla and chocolate cupcakes. Carob can be substituted for chocolate. Randburg.

Contact: 011 794 3646, 082 550 9932 or kami73@iburst.co.za

Chantal’s Cakes & Catering Homestyle bakery for any occasion. Roodepoort.

Contact: 011 764 6309, 076 849 4042 or chantalscakes@vodamail.co.za Chlo Lo Catering Customised cakes and cupcakes, savoury snacks, macaroons, novelty biscuits and more. River Club. Contact: 072 659 8919, robynwilson1@gmail.com or visit chlolo.co.za Coffeespoonz & Afternoons Frozen muffin batters. Also available: crumpet, waffle, pancake, cupcake, brownie and biscuit batters. Simply defrost, snip, pour and bake. Nationwide delivery.

Contact: 011 849 4273, 079 825 1012, coffeespoonz@telkomsa.net or visit muffin-batters.co.za Cuppabake Sweet and savoury baked products, 3D cakes, birthday cakes and cupcakes in various flavours.

Randpark Ridge. Contact: 011 791 0248, info@cuppabake.co.za or visit cuppabake.co.za Delite Foods Offering sugar-free, low-fat sweets, jellies, biscuits and chocolate drinks. From R3,95 to R22.

All goodies can be purchased directly through the site. Contact: 021 702 0721/2, info@delitefoods.co.za or visit delitefoods.co.za DLish Services range from novelty and specialised cakes to party and function catering. Contact Graeme: 082 378 5677, graeme@dlish.co.za or visit dlish.co.za

Dream Cakes Specialists in 3D and novelty cakes. They also supply iced biscuits and cupcakes. Alberton. Contact: 082 895 8820, benita@dreamcakes.co.za or visit dreamcakes.co.za Fairy Godmother Specialist in cupcakes, themed cakes, 3D cakes, moulded cakes and other bakes. All the parts of the cake are hand-made and edible, including the figurines. Bryanston.

Contact: 072 787 3759 or jennifer@ clutterbusters.co.za Gill’s Cakes Suppliers of themed 3D cakes, cupcakes, biscuits, cake pops and petit fours. Roodepoort. Contact: 082 926 3363, gillian@gillscakes.co.za or visit gillscakes.co.za Kadies Bakery Supplies A supply shop that stocks over 2 500 lines associated with baking and cake decorating. Fourways.

Contact: 011 465 5572, enquiries@kadies. co.za or visit kadies.co.za Kauai Wholesome food available in large quantities. Stores located countrywide.

Contact: 021 552 0222 or visit kauai.co.za Lollipops Catering They supply cakes and cupcakes, chairs, marquees, dance floors and more. Northcliff. Contact: 011 782 5063, lollipops@telkomsa.net or visit lollipops.co.za Morish Cupcake Boutique From novelty to traditional cupcakes and cakes, including delicious red velvet cakes.

Contact: 071 136 1622, info@morish.co.za or visit morish.co.za

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resource Patisserie Belle Tailor-made cakes for all ages. They also offer tarts, cupcakes, platters and sweet and savoury pastries.

Randpark Ridge. Contact: 011 791 6242, 072 129 7237, tania@pbelle.co.za or visit patisseriebelle.co.za Petits Fours Deli and Decor Provides high teas for girls of all ages, specialised cakes and platters. They also do catering and in-house functions. Blackheath.

Contact: 011 782 1778, 082 434 4998, petitsfoursdeli@gmail.com or visit petitsfours.co.za Picnics for Pixies Choose from a variety of menus, decor and entertainment options and extras. For more info: visit picnicsforpixies.co.za Picture Perfect Cakes Offering baked goods from cupcakes and cake pops to novelty cakes and party packs. They also offer baking parties. Boskruin. Contact: 076 821 5628, info@pictureperfectcakes. co.za or visit pictureperfectcakes.co.za Say it with a CAKE Colourful hand-made gift and novelty cakes. They also make mini-cakes, cupcakes and pixie bites.

Contact: 083 528 1721, sayitwithacake2@ gmail.com or visit sayitwithacake.co.za Tart For all your speciality cake requirements. They also supply pastries, savouries, platters and biscuits. Lonehill.

Contact: 011 705 3544, scharlene@tartscakes.co.za or visit tarts-cakes.co.za The Bread Basket Customised cakes and platters. Contact Sandton City: 011 783 9053, Greenstone: 011 452 1129, Morningside: 087 940 3853, The Glen: 011 436 1595, Eastgate: 011 622 4346, reception@breadbasket.co.za or visit breadbasket.co.za The Cake Lady Cakes and cupcakes made to order. Randburg. Contact: 083 700 8938 or thecakelady@wbs.co.za The Honeybee Bakery For all your themed 3D cake topper needs.

Sandton. Contact: 082 969 9688, the. honeybee.bakery@gmail.com or visit thehoneybeebakery.co.za Top Cakes Offers character and picture transfer cakes, cupcakes and platters. Randburg. Contact: 076 550 8996, enquiries@topcakes.co.za or visit topcakes.co.za

cooking parties At My Table Cooking Themed cooking parties for children from 5–12 years old with aprons and chefs hats.

Northriding. Contact: 082 670 5063, info@ atmytable.co.za or visit atmytable.co.za Chocdelite Children learn the art of chocolate moulding and they take home their creations. Florida. Contact: 083 554 6041 or moneera@mtn.blackberry.com Cooking Up A Storm “I made it myself” cooking parties for children 6 years and older. Interactive and supervised baking and cooking at your venue. Contact: 083 408 8802, jeanri@cookingupastorm.co.za or visit cookingupastorm.co.za Foodiction Children prepare and enjoy their own food. The menu is designed according to the theme and is age-appropriate.

Bryanston. Contact: 011 514 6745, info@ foodiction.co.za or visit foodiction.co.za

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Fun Foodies Parties They come to your chosen venue with recipes and all the equipment. Children get to dress up as chefs and learn about healthy food while cooking. Contact: 082 214 5271, funfoodies@mweb.co.za or visit funfoodies.com Gizzy’s Cupcakes Hosts cupcake decorating parties and creates special and themed cupcakes. Randburg.

Contact: 079 586 4667, enquiries@ gizzyscupcakes.co.za or visit gizzyscupcakes.co.za Karma Kooking Klub for Kids Cooking parties for children. The cost includes juice, all ingredients, food preparation at their venue and a chef’s hat. Contact: 072 222 8559 or zara@ karmakorporate.co.za Little Cooks Club New cooking themed parties incorporating team challenges and mystery baskets as well as their “Spade to Spatula” cooking programme and parties for children under 7 years old. For more info: visit littlcooksclub.co.za Noogie Cookie Dough Offers a “Make, Bake and Take” party experience with Noogie Cookie Dough for your child and their friends to experiment with. Contact: 083 445 4556, adventures@noogieville.co.za or visit noogieville.co.za The Growing Gourmet They organise cooking parties for children 3–15 years old.

All areas; based in Edenvale. Contact: 071 136 1622 or ggstudio@vodamail.co.za The Kitchen Pantry A country kitchen offering interactive cupcake baking and decorating parties, “Mad Hatter” tea parties and junior cooking “Master Classes” for children 6–12 years old.

Sandton. Contact: 011 784 4244, 083 601 1931 or lisa@thekitchenpantry.co.za The Taste bud Studio Specialising in MasterChef style cooking parties for older children, as well as “girly” cupcake decorating parties. Paulshof. Contact: 082 331 9987, nicola@tastebudstudio.co.za or visit tastebudstudio.co.za Tots n Pots cooking parties Offers tailormade baking parties. Various packages are available. For more info and a branch closest to you, contact: angie@totsnpots. com or visit totsnpots.co.za

educational parties Experilab Sciencethemed birthday parties at their venue where children perform experiments that they take home. They stock activity packs for your own science party at home. Northern suburbs, Midrand and Centurion. Contact: 012 361 1134, info@ experilab.co.za or visit experilab.co.za Maropeng Birthday Parties Children are entertained by a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves or Maropeng Visitor Centre followed by supervised party games. Optional party extras also available. Cradle of Humankind.

Contact: 014 577 9000 or visit the shop at maropeng.co.za Sci-Bono Discovery Centre Parties include a guided tour of the centre, a science show, a party coordinator, a free magazine joburg

science gift for the birthday child, two hours in the party venue and free entrance to the centre for all guests.

Closed until the end of July 2013.

Newtown. Contact: 011 639 8400, refilwep@sci-bono.co.za or visit sci-bono.co.za Science and Creepy Crawly parties Children observe experiments and conduct three of their own with slime, rockets, and volcanoes. For children 4–12 years old. Northern and western suburbs. Contact: 073 260 5371 or kjiekjie@gmail.com Toby Tower The range consists of creative activities, stickers and wall decor for gifts, party favours or party edutainment.

Contact: 0800 220 488, tobytower@ pyrotec.co.za or visit tobytower.co.za

entertainers Aalwyn’s Funtainment A ventriloquist, magician, mime and balloon artist.

Contact Aalwyn: 083 354 8726 AfrodizzyActs Entertainment company with performers nationwide. Contact: 082 087 5748 or visit afrodizzyacts.co.za Andy’s Action Parties Entertainment for children from the age of 6. Themes include Army, Survivor, Minute to Win It, Fear Factor, Amazing Race, sports themes and more. Contact: 082 381 1051, bronwyn@ aaparty.co.za or visit aaparty.co.za Blue Flame Events They offer children’s entertainment and rent out jumping castles and costumes. Nationwide.

Contact: 072 599 2288, info@bflame.co.za or visit bflame.co.za Buzz-Nickerbockerdoodlebug Parties Themed interactive adventure parties for children aged 5–9 years old, led by an entertainer in character. They can arrange everything from jumping castles, face painters and slush puppy machines.

Contact: 011 025 2525, info@buzzdrama. com or visit buzzdrama.com Clamber Club Mobile obstacle course party entertainment. They bring a vanload of obstacle courses, fun and games.

For children 1–9 years old. Nationwide.

Contact: 011 325 2031, headoffice@ clamberclub.com or visit clamberclub.com Creative Faces Offers a range of detailed face-painting designs, body paintings, temporary airbrushed tattoos, glitter and henna tattoos and hair art. Contact: 073 631 0578, info@creativefaces.co.za or visit creativefaces.co.za Duo Sapphire Entertainment Professional entertainers and equipment suppliers travel to your venue or entertain you at Mac’s Party Farmyard with its indoor hall, picnic and braai facilities, a jungle gym, jumping castle, farm animals and more. Tedderfield. Contact: 011 948 8752, 082 657 6817, info@duosapphire. co.za or visit duosapphire.co.za Fairytale Fantacies Entertainers dressed as fairy tale princesses come to your house to coordinate and host the party. Decor packages available.

They offer pamper, craft and pirate parties. Contact: 079 343 2042, moira@fairytalefantacy.co.za or visit fairytalefantacy.co.za magazine joburg

Lil-Tings Hosts diva, theme, pizza and foam parties at your venue. Also supplies party packs. Contact: 083 671 4770, tammy@little-t.co.za or visit little-t.co.za Miles of Smiles Supplies clowns, face painters, stilt walkers, puppets, dance shows and more. Themes include pirates, disco, fairies, princesses and more.

Contact: 011 791 1920, 072 143 4003, chris@milesofsmilesonline.com or visit milesofsmilesentertainment.co.za Never Grow Up! Arranges face painting, balloon sculpting, party games, handmade party decor, photo backdrops and more. Contact: 083 780 0757, monique. naude@nevergrowup.co.za or visit nevergrowup.co.za Puppet World Puppet shows with themes, music, lighting and puppet characters. For children up to age 8. Contact: 012 991 7644, marie@puppetworld.co.za or visit puppetworld.co.za Puppets and More Professional party puppet shows using large, colourful puppets, incorporating ventriloquism, music, drama and tricks. Contact: 082 293 6097, parkersofbluehills@worldonline. co.za or visit puppetsandmore.co.za Remember Me For face painting and temporary airbrushed tattoos at your venue. Novelty birthday cakes and cupcakes also on offer. Midrand, Sandton, East Rand and Rosebank. Contact: 083 305 1237 or cdedmondson@gmail.com Spellbound Puppets Interactive puppet shows. Contact: 011 648 5235, 082 744 3882, info@spellboundpuppets.com or visit spellboundpuppets.com The Enchanted Castle They organise themed parties, and supply entertainers specialising in fairy tales such as Cinderella, Belle and Snow White and more. Nationwide. Contact: 072 569 9332, 082 857 8451, info@enchantedcastle.co.za or visit enchantedcastle.co.za The Incredible Dog Show A world class dog show for the entire family. Shows can be presented in English, Afrikaans or bilingually. Nationwide. Contact: 084 500 0415, lloyd@dogzcool.com or visit dogzcool.com Unforgettable Parties Entertains children with fun games and sports such as soccer and cricket. Variety of jumping castles, candy floss and popcorn machines and a foam pit for hire. Contact: 011 333 9991, 072 804 4596, info@u-parties.co.za or visit u-parties.co.za Whimsical Parties Offering entertainment from a Disney character, fun activities, games and prizes. They also organise pamper, craft and themed parties, and supply decor and catering. Contact: 071 444 0953, info@whimsicalparties.co.za or visit awishawaywhimsical.blogspot.com Wow Wee Magic Show A hilarious and fun-filled interactive magic show with music, puppets and giveaways. Contact: 082 336 9287, ryan@illusionists.co.za or visit magickids.co.za Xstatic Dance Parties An instructor comes to the venue of your choice to play dance games and teach the children a dance routine. Various themes available.

Bryanston. Contact: 079 497 2680 or llxstatic@gmail.com May 2013

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fancy dress hire Pirates and Princesses Tailor-made costumes.

No hiring, and needs two weeks for making. Contact: 011 828 1512, 082 716 9732, val@piratesandprincesses. co.za or visit piratesandprincesses.co.za Pirouette Costume Hire Supplies costumes and apparel for adults, children and babies. Garments available for hire or to buy. Special garments can be made up to requirements. Randburg. Contact: 011 792 1661, enquiries@pirouettecostumehire. co.za or visit pirouettecostumehire.co.za Sinderella’s Costume Hire Rents out fancy-dress costumes for theme parties.

Also sells theatrical novelty items. Linden.

Contact: 011 782 0622, sinder@global. co.za or visit costumehire.co.za Sweet ’n Sassy Creators of party dresses, tutus, hair accessories, tutu tops and more.

Design your own tutu online. Delivery nationwide. Contact: 082 878 7544, lesley@ sweetnsassy.co.za or visit tutus.co.za

indoor and outdoor parties All Things Magical Party Venue and Craft Studio A venue with a pool, lapa and garden that has play apparatus. They can arrange catering, cakes, party packs, jumping castles, decor and entertainment. Sharonlea. Contact: 083 272 9939, allthingsmagical@explicitfx.com or visit allthingsmagical.co.za

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Blue Feather A bistro that offers a marquee for hire. There is a water park with splash pools and water jets and sprays, and a giant chess board. Midrand.

Contact: 011 314 5410, info@bluefeather. co.za or visit bluefeather.co.za Carpe Diem Nursery school A facility geared for 25 children. They can supply entertainment, tables, chairs, cutlery, catering, snacks and childminders.

Malanshof, Randburg. Contact: 082 441 8002 or barnardtz@yahoo.com Chartwell Castle The biggest known uninterrupted hedgerow maze in the southern hemisphere. Chartwell. Contact: 010 227 0002, info@chartwellcastle.co.za or visit chartwellcastle.co.za Crackerjack Parties Three venues with various catering options, trampolines, bouncing balls, scooters and balancing balls. Arranges pyjama and pamper parties. Rivonia. Contact: 082 604 8641, info@crackerjackparties.co.za or visit crackerjackparties.co.za Earth Kids A large party venue with rolling lawns, play equipment and braai facilities.

There is an indoor area where you can set up the party. Crowthorne. Contact: 011 023 5746, 083 233 7806, info@earthkids. co.za or visit earthkids.co.za Egoli Kids Offers a play area, ball pool, and climbing wall. Catering and decor can be arranged. Edenvale. Contact: 011 609 4755, 082 467 2345, cafe@egolilodge. co.za or visit egolilodge.co.za

Emerald Resort & Casino Children get one activity (aquadome, ten pin bowling, adventure golf, rock climbing, animal farmyard, game drives), a meal, party pack, birthday certificate and a Kidzone retail discount voucher. Vanderbijlpark. Contact: 016 982 8342, partyinfo@emeraldcasino. co.za or visit emeraldcasino.co.za Feastt They supply the venue, decor, catering, cakes, party packs and activities.

Parktown North. Contact: 011 447 8001, rene@feastt.co.za or visit feastt.co.za George & Lucy’s Party venue in a country setting with an indoor area, farm-style patio, large play area with a jumping castle, bike track and a covered deck.

Chartwell. Contact: 011 708 1326, 082 578 0468 or visit georgeandlucys.com Gingko Secure garden, play area and deck.

They arrange catering, entertainment and decor. Parkview. Contact: 011 486 3361, info@gingko.co.za or visit gingko.co.za Grannies Garden Venue for 40 children, with a bike track, party room, kitchen, beach room, fantasy room, modular play room and more. Blairgowrie. Contact: 011 326 4265, 082 456 9887, claire@clairem. co.za or visit granniesgarden.co.za Houghton Estate Family Centre A multifunctional venue with a wide selection of play equipment. Rental includes the assistance of a party manager. Houghton Estate. Contact: 082 499 2578, tracy@hefc.co.za or visit hefc.co.za

Imagine The Venue All-weather venue with a large playground and an inside area for parents. Also offers party planning. Fourways. Contact: 082 928 7474, imagine@mailnet.co.za or visit imaginechildreinsparties.co.za Jungle Joes They arrange and set up themed children’s parties and organise entertainers. They also offer jumping castle and slip ’n slide hire, archery, zip lining and more. Bramley. Contact: 011 887 1771, info@junglejoes.co.za or visit junglejoes.co.za Kidzville Safe environment for parties with themes such as farm, boot camp, pirates, adventure land, Survivor and teen disco.

Kempton Park. Contact: 083 463 1429, beth@kidzville.co.za or visit kidzville.co.za Learn More Venue with a fenced off swimming pool, trestle tables, tablecloths, three gazebos, and play equipment.

Randpark Ridge. Contact: 071 435 3260 or jackiedummer1@gmail.com Monkey Magic Kiddie Parties Specialises in planning and setting up themed children’s parties. They arrange decor, cakes, party packs, accessories, entertainment and supervision. Contact: 083 658 0218, quotes@monkeymagic. co.za or visit monkeymagic.co.za Rainbow River Party Place A large outdoor area alongside a river, a lapa, with chairs, tables, helium balloons, and all cutlery and crockery. Morningside.

Contact: 082 604 4124, info@rainbowriver. co.za or visit rainbowriver.co.za

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Smilemakers Entertainment Offers a range of entertainment and equipment for all ages.

Contact: 011 640 6096, party@smilemakers. co.za or visit smilemakers.co.za Starzky’s Parties An outdoor area with a soccer field, trampoline, jungle gym, sandpit, and plastic motorbike track, as well as a covered patio with tables and chairs.

They offer jumping castle hire and soccer parties at your venue. Edenvale. Contact: 011 882 3428, info@starzkysparties.co.za or visit starzkysparties.co.za The Hide Out Kyalami An indoor and outdoor party venue with a garden, lawns, an enclosed veranda and lounge area.

Venue hire includes use of all kitchenware, furniture and cutlery. Kyalami. Contact: 072 193 3652, housewife@live.co.za or visit thehideoutkyalami.co.za The Party House A venue with a garden, princess doll house, swimming pool, jungle gym, indoor entertainment area and breath-taking views. Bryanston.

Contact: info@thepartyhouse.co.za or visit thepartyhouse.co.za Underground Gemstone Mine Tours Children can explore the scratch patch, underground gemstone mine tours or enjoy camel rides. Midrand. Contact: 011 468 1467 or visit geckojewellers.co.za Wild Kids Company Bring a bike and foefie slide, climb the wall and more. Benoni. Contact: 082 066 1964, adel@wildkidscompany.co.za or visit wildkidscompany.co.za

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indoor parties Beary Nice Parties Offers DIY kits for children to create their own teddy bears. They’ll select the bear, give it stuffing, an outfit and a name. Based in Heidelberg.

Contact: 072 774 4252, bbearparty@gmail. com or visit bbearparty.webs.com Build-a-Party with Build-a-Bear Workshop Children make their own cuddly animal, giving it a heart and personalising it from a selection of outfits and accessories.

Sandton City and East Rand Mall. Contact East Rand Mall: 011 826 7315, Sandton: 011 883 0911 or visit buildabear.co.za Col’Cacchio Pizzeria A restaurant that offers a “make your own pizza” facility for children. Weekend entertainment includes pizza-making competitions, face painting, a jumping castle and more. Fairland.

Contact: 011 431 3538/4257, fairland@ colcacchio.co.za or visit colcacchio.co.za Galaxy World Packages include a game of bowling, time on the amusement machines, a party pack and your choice of a child’s meal. Bedford Centre. Contact: 011 615 6877, mail@galaxyworld.co.za or visit galaxyworld.co.za Jimmy Jungles Supervised and secure adventure indoor playground for children from 6 months old to a maximum height of 1,4m. Edenvale. Contact: 011 452 1824, fun@jimmyjungles.co.za or visit jimmyjungles.co.za

Jungle Rumble Parents can kick off their shoes and join their children (up to the age of 12) for two hours of play in the multi-level indoor playground. Costs include a private room, party packs and a jungle surprise. Mulbarton. Contact: 011 432 0403, info@junglerumble.co.za or visit junglerumble.co.za Kay’s Place Tailor-made parties for children of all ages; everything is catered for including the birthday cake, party packs and decor. Edenvale. Contact: 011 452 2180, 071 680 7768, info@kaysplace. co.za or visit kaysplace.co.za Kid’s Traffic-land Children aged 3–11 years old can drive battery operated vehicles around the mini traffic-land or at a venue of your choice. Catering optional.

Highlands North. Contact: 073 329 8510, 082 459 2074, pana@kidztrafficland.co.za or visit kidztrafficland.co.za National Children’s Theatre The birthday child gets invited on stage after the production to receive a special gift, a photograph and a version of “Happy birthday” is sung. Parktown. Contact: 011 484 1584, bookings@nctt.org.za or visit nationalchildrenstheatre.org.za Orango Tangos Uniquely themed party rooms with various packages available offering decorations, snacks, sweets and party packs. Suitable for children 1–12 years old. Northcliff. Contact: 078 526 9887, info@orangotangos.co.za or visit orangotangos.co.za

Spur Steak Ranches Each child gets a selected children’s meal, soda, ice cream and lunch box or lucky packet. Enquire about a cake. Nationwide. Contact: 0860 007 787 or visit spur.co.za The Barnyard Theatres Bring your own food and party packs (no beverages), or order pizzas from them and enjoy an interactive shows. Boksburg, Cresta and Rivonia. Contact Rivonia: 011 234 2033, Cresta: 011 478 5300, Boksburg: 011 823 6933 or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za The Fun Company The centre offers glow mini golf, bumper cars and arcade games.

You are given a demarcated area for a maximum of 30 children, a trestle table and balloons. Brakpan. Contact: 011 915 8874, carnival@thefuncompany.co.za or visit thefuncompany.co.za Yeesh! Fun for Kids Indoor fun party venues with ball ponds, slides, giant twostorey climbing frames, obstacle courses, jumping castles and trampolines. For children 1–12 years old. Woodmead and Bryanston. Contact: 011 656 9669, 011 463 5847, info@yeesh.co.za or visit yeesh.co.za

music parties Disco Baby Disco parties for children 4 years and older. They arrange the invites, cakes and catering, DJs, dancers and party packs. Contact: 084 804 6550, bookings@discobaby.co.za or visit discobaby.co.za

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resource Drum Connection Interactive drumming parties for children and teens. Contact: 084 389 6814, info@drumconnection. co.za or visit drumconnection.co.za Drumkidz Parties High Impact, energetic drumming to stories and songs; drumming games are also played. Activity sheet and gift included. Randburg and surrounds. Contact: 082 788 1587, elsa@ drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za SuperStars Dance Parties Parties are tailor-made to your requirements and include hip-hop, karaoke, rock, alternative, teen-themed disco parties for children 8–12 years old. Craighall Park. Contact: 011 728 2641, candice@superstars.co.za or visit superstarsdanceparties.co.za Wired Sound Studios – Pop Idol Parties Children sing and record their own CD in a professional recording studio.

Parktown North. Contact: 082 339 4733, info@wiredsoundstudios.co.za or visit wiredsoundstudios.co.za

outdoor parties AcroBranch Combines sport and adventure.

Birthday parties get full access to all the junior courses. You also get the use of all their facilities. Melrose.

Contact: 078 438 7463, bookings@ acrobranch.co.za or visit acrobranch.co.za Adventure Golf Players receive two games of golf, a designated area to set up, a party bucket, a cool drink and more. For children 6 years and older. Fourways, Randburg, Kensington and Edenvale. Contact: 011 788 3282, info@adventuregolf.co.za or visit adventuregolf.co.za Aroma Café Offering a playground with plenty of shade and play equipment, including a pirate ship, motorbike tar track, swings and more. They arrange activities such as icing a gingerbread man or cupcake, or building your own icecream sundae. Fourways. Contact: 011 465 4326, info@aroma-cafe.co.za or visit aroma-cafe.co.za Canned Olive Happyland A large restaurant playground on the premises of the Greek Sporting Club boasting a pirate ship with 11 slides. Senderwood.

Contact: 011 027 3030, 082 411 6539 or cannedolive@mweb.co.za Eagle Campus Offering ample outdoor space with a pool, superslides, lapa to provide cover, tables and chairs, jungle gyms and a trampoline. Ruimsig. Contact: 011 665 4208, tilana77@hotmail.co.za or visit dreamparties.co.za Elf’s Hill Party Yard A playground with a wide selection of play equipment. They offer entertainers, accessories, party packs, decor and catering. Randburg. Contact: 082 337 5646, bookings@elfshill.co.za or visit elfshill.co.za Fantasy Park A fun-in-the-country experience with two venues: Aeroplayin includes a real passenger airliner; while Enchanting is equipped with a castle maze. Chartwell. Contact: 072 256 7834, fantasypark@vodamail.co.za or visit fantasypark.co.za Footloose Trout Farm Children’s fishing parties, including entrance, rod hire and bait, plus a hotdog and cold drink. There

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is an indoor area, a swimming pool, and a playground. Fourways North. Contact: 011 466 9911, kim@kendals.co.za or visit footloosetroutfarm.co.za Happy Acres Party Venue Hire of venue includes use of the tables, chairs, cutlery, crockery and access to the play facilities such as the scooters, swingball and 5 hole mini golf and more. Germiston. Contact: 083 962 9341 or elisejfourie@gmail.com Hobo’s Hide Partyland A children’s party venue in the country with pony rides, jumping castles and water slides.

Muldersdrift. Contact: 081 358 1946, charlene@thepartyland.co.za or visit thepartyland.co.za Honeydew A-Maize-ing Mazes Explore the giant maze and find the five secret gardens in order to answer the questions in the general knowledge quiz. Price includes a reserved picnic spot, crisps, a drink and ice cream if you complete the maze. Honeydew. Contact: 073 795 2174, enquiries@maizemaze.co.za or visit honeydewmazes.co.za Hyundai Sky Park Book a private party at either of their two venues. The children can go on a 15–minute ride in the earthlinked balloon. Fourways and Sandton.

Contact: 083 626 1477, maxine@ atlasballoon.co.za or visit hyundai.co.za Larney Ladybirds Party Venue Offers fully-themed or do-it-yourself options.

They will plan the party from start to finish or guide you. Broadacres. Contact: 083 770 7702, bianca@larneyladybirds.co.za or visit larneyladybirds.co.za Old Mac Donald’s Party Farm An outdoor country venue with animals, lapas, sandpits and jungle gyms. They can provide catering, party packs, cakes and themed decorations. Lanseria. Contact: 082 321 3562, info@oldmacdonald.co.za or visit oldmacdonald.co.za Post House Parties A landscaped venue where you can sit in a raised lapa as your children run wild and free. The property has swans, indigenous and exotic ducks, rabbits and tortoises. Chartwell. Contact: 082 417 1395, nicole@posthouseparties. co.za or visit posthouseparties.co.za Rand Society of Model Engineers Offers two hours of miniature train rides, tables and chairs, and a lapa for you to decorate. Florida Park. Contact: 011 046 9179, 082 837 2371, rsme.florida@gmail. com or visit rsme.co.za Serendipity A full-service party venue that arranges the party space, catering, decor, childminders and entertainment according to your requirements, giving you the time to chat to your guests and have fun with your children. Rosebank. Contact: 011 447 7386, serendipityplay@gmail.com or visit serendipityplay.co.za Special Forces Awesome Kids Parties Fully catered for army, Survivor, Amazing Race and children’s paintball parties.

Fourways. Contact: 011 465 7551, 082 922 1611, specialforces@mweb.co.za or visit specialforceskidsparties.webs.com Sundowner Adventures Fly-fishing parties. Equipment is provided and catering available on request. Magaliesburg.

Contact: 011 315 4503, sundown@iafrica. com or visit sundowneradventures.co.za magazine joburg

Sunset Mountain Party Venue They provide a large thatched lapa for adults and a host of activities for children including trampolines and jungle gyms.

Muldersdrift. Contact: 072 850 3956 or chantall@sunsetmountain.co.za Survive or Race the Adventure Designed around the popular television programmes Survivor and The Amazing Race, parties provide fun-filled entertainment for ages 6 and up. Pelindaba. Contact: 082 895 2513, admin@surviveorrace.co.za or visit surviveorrace.co.za The Mighty Jungle A large outdoor venue with a fully equipped enclosed area for exclusive hire with jungle gyms, sandpit, merry-go-round, foefie slide, and more. Bedfordview. Contact Nadia: 082 880 9335, Sonia: 083 452 8120 or mightyjungle@global.co.za The Silver Birch Restaurant Host your party in the children’s area or under the thatch lapa. Children can make their own pizzas and play in the well-equipped playground. Randburg. Contact: 011 792 5714, bookings@thesilverbirch.co.za or visit thesilverbirch.co.za The Ski Deck Enjoy all the fun of bumboarding, slope surfing and sliding down the giant 40m bumboarding slope, or sliding down a 4m water slide into a pool. There is a playground with a jungle gym, trampoline, zip line and rolling log.

Ferndale. Contact: 011 781 6528, info@ ski.co.za or visit ski.co.za The Yellow Brick Road They provide a marquee in which you can set up your party. There is a play area, 100 aviaries housing exotic birds and a touch farm with bunnies and guinea pigs. Benoni.

Contact: 082 295 6293 or fish1@ netactive.co.za Tweedles Party Venue Situated in a lovely shaded garden, with a pool and their own personal lifeguard. They offer entertainment, decor, cakes, party packs, catering and a completely stress free experience. Sundowner. Contact: 082 612 2272, info@tweedles.co.za or visit tweedles.co.za Urban Dive Centre Children learn about the equipment and scuba diving before going into the pool with a ship wreck and treasure chest to play underwater games. For children 8 years and older. Northcliff. Contact: 011 476 5172, 083 644 6869, tracy@urbandive. co.za or visit urbandive.co.za Wild Cave Adventures Children from 8 years old and up can get dressed in overalls and mining helmets, ready to explore the wonders of an underground cave. Cradle of Humankind. Contact: 082 486 2464, info@wildcaves.co.za or visit wildcaves.co.za Wildkids Parties An hour of physical outdoor fun where children navigate an obstacle course and perform activities.

For ages 3–9 years old. Contact: 082 379 2675 or visit wild-kids.co.za X-Treme Foam Parties Hires out foam cannons and foam machines. Also offers a mobile disco service with a DJ, jumping castles and slides. Contact: 082 462 2001, info@foamparty.co.za or visit foamparty.co.za magazine joburg

pamper parties Featherbrooke Children Offers Le Petite Femme Pamper Spa Parties in their playhouse, which includes mini facials, mini manicures, mini pedicures, a chocolate fountain and gourmet cupcakes. Dainfern. Contact: 083 704 8600, springett@mweb.co.za or visit featherbrookechildren.co.za Lillies and Lace events Offers 8 themed parties for toddlers to teens to feel classy and fabulous. From teddy bear picnics and mini-chefs to “fashion week” and a mini spa. Alberton. Contact: 082 562 2091, michelle@lilliesandlace.co.za or visit lilliesandlace.co.za Little Belle’s Pamper Parties They come to your venue and set up a heavenly princess retreat, offering pamper treatments, party favours, linen and decor.

For children 4–13 years old. Contact: 083 503 8859, deborah@littlebelles.co.za or visit littlebelles.co.za Melville Wellness Centre and Day Spa Girls between 6–12 years old can enjoy tailor-made pamper packages that include treatments, a Jacuzzi, refreshments, party snacks, cakes, and decor. Melville.

Contact: 011 477 6987, 011 477 5866, info@melville-wellness-centre.co.za or visit melville-wellness-centre.co.za Pamper Girlz Pamper parties in your home for girls from the age of 4–13 years old, which include facials, foot and hand scrubs, make-up and nail polish. They also do pirate parties for boys. Contact Liza: 082 515 8079, liza@pampergirlz. co.za or visit pampergirlz.co.za Roiketla Spa They offer children’s pamper parties complete with massages, manicures, pedicures and temporary tattoos. Muldersdrift. Contact: 083 928 1113, roiketlaspa@vodamail.co.za or visit roiketlaspa.co.za StudioGirls A photographic party for girls. Experience a real photo shoot with a professional photographer, have fun getting dressed up, and having your make-up done. Bryanston. Contact: 082 897 7540, jacky@studiogirls.co.za or visit studiogirls.co.za X-clusive Girls Pamper Parties Package includes the painting of nails, children’s champagne, a talk about looking after their skin, and a beauty hamper to take home. For girls 6 years and older. Lonehill.

Contact: 082 672 4546, x-clusive@mweb. co.za or visit xclusive-image.co.za

party planners ABC Jumping Castle and Theme Parties Supplies jumping castles and organises everything for a themed birthday party. Services include delivery, set-up and collection. Contact: 083 724 7714, malissa@abcjumpingcastles.co.za or visit abcjumpingcastles.co.za Absolute Perfection Party planning, styling and dessert buffets. They arrange everything from entertainment, invitations, and designer cakes, to coordinating the day’s activities. Contact: 072 314 9347, candace@absoluteperfection.co.za or visit absoluteperfection.co.za May 2013

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resource Allergenius They’ll plan your allergyfree party from start to finish, tailoring it to suit your needs. They can arrange cakes and catering, entertainers, decor and more. West Rand and surrounds.

Contact: 083 564 6746, 083 289 6146 or candacefowler@gmail.com Blissful Parties Plans imaginative parties within your budget, plain or themed.

Contact: 084 530 6437, info@blissfulparties. co.za or visit blissfulparties.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 and face painters.

Northern and western suburbs. Contact: 072 256 7834, bringontheparty@vodamail. co.za or visit bringontheparty.co.za Coconut Events They specialise in children’s birthday parties and each event is tailor-made to meet your specific needs. Contact: 071 596 7650, 071 475 4184, shakethecoconut@gmail.com or visit shakethecoconut.com Dream Parties Creates unforgettable memories for children 1–13 years old.

They have several party packages available which include themed cakes, novelty gifts, cupcakes, party packs, jumping castles, venue decorations, photo boards and platters. West Rand and surrounds. Contact: 011 665 4208, tilana77@hotmail.co.za or visit dreamparties.co.za

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Easy Peasy Parties They handle the invites, the decor, the cake and the favours. Northern suburbs. Contact: 083 398 8688, ash@vesselinspectionservices. com or visit easypeasyparties.co.za Eridessa Party Planners Offers a full party planning service as well as equipment hire such as chairs, tables and jumping castles.

Fourways. Contact: 084 778 8850, info@ eridessa.co.za or visit eridessa.co.za Fairy Time They will transport your child into the realm of fantasy where dreams come true. Joburg, Midrand and Pretoria.

Contact: 083 258 3250, caroline@ fairytime.co.za or visit fairytime.co.za Kids Party Stuff Organises all the food and fun for your children’s parties from inflatable structures, face painters and photographers to pony rides, drumming and the cake. Contact: 083 409 8003, info@kidspartystuff.co.za or visit kidspartystuff.co.za Little Lees Parties They set up parties, hire out equipment, arrange cakes, cupcakes, catering, piñatas and party packs. Northern suburbs. Contact: 071 512 9399, littlelees@telkomsa.net or visit littlelees.co.za Magical Events Event specialists who will enhance your party theme, which include pirates, fairies, Ben 10 and many more. Based in Sandton. Contact: 079 524 8163, Carly: 082 880 3382, komla@magicalevents.co.za or visit magicalevents.co.za

Namasté Kids Book themes, fun eats, equipment, entertainment, rides, animals, staff and catering for children and adults.

Durban, Joburg and Cape Town. Contact: 072 064 8628 or info@namaste-kids.com Party Bliss Professional party planning for children’s themed parties such as SpiderMan or Barbie. All accessories, catering and decor can be arranged. Contact: 011 849 9889, 083 792 5176, info@partybliss. co.za or visit partybliss.co.za Party Bubbles Catering to all your party needs with tables and chairs, personalised party packs, centrepieces, themed accessories, candyfloss machines, popcorn machines, bubble machines, and an entertainer that does face painting, balloon sculpting and a magic show. Lenasia. Contact: 011 852 2737, 083 235 7145, jumpingkids2000@ webmail.co.za or visit partybubbles.co.za Partykit They provide all the elements needed for children’s parties, from party packs, catering, decor, games and things to do if it rains. Douglasdale, Fourways, Bryanston, Kyalami and Randburg.

Contact: 083 501 4868, bron@partykit. co.za or visit partykit.co.za Party Packs ‘n Piñatas Makes cakes, cupcakes and biscuits in your theme and matching party packs. Also supplies piñatas and jelly cameras. Contact: 087 805 9977, 082 683 5766, info@ partypacksandpinatas.co.za or visit partypacksandpinatas.co.za

Party Trix Planning your party experience from A-Z and everything in between.

Contact: 083 274 5018, info@partytrix. co.za or visit partytrix.co.za Party Worx They cater to all your party needs from decor and jumping castles to party accessories and magicians. Contact: 084 295 6231 or rolene.paylad@gmail.com Planet Party and Events They will help you choose a theme, supply the invitations, catering, party packs, decor, tables, chairs, birthday banners, flags, photo boards, and accessories. Contact: 083 446 7696, sammy.planetparty@gmail. com or visit planetparty.co.za Razmataz Kidz Parties Handling the party decor, cakes, themed party packs, jumping castles, piñatas, entertainers and costume hire. Contact: 084 240 5823, nomfundo@razmatazkidzparties.co.za or visit razmatazkidzparties.co.za Stace-Face Face Painting Party planners, entertainers, face painters, decor, party activities, piñatas and themed parties. They provide childminders, photography and DJs. Contact: 076 420 9209, stacey@staceface.com or visit staceface.com Supakids Children’s Parties Offers various options to custom-design your child’s party. They source a venue or come to yours and supply the decor, food and entertainment. Nationwide.

Contact: info@supakids.co.za or visit supakids.co.za

magazine joburg

The Children’s Party Company Plans the catering, decor and entertainers (such as Disney mascots) at the Playground Café or a venue of your choice. Also offer pamper parties.

Contact: 011 023 3479, 076 043 2228, thechildrenspartycompany@gmail.com or visit thechildrenspartycompany.co.za The Main Event Planning your event from start to finish, including the personalised thank-you cards. Their themes include Indiana Jones, Star Wars, Transformers, Cars and more. Contact: 071 003 7288, 076 667 8386, parties@themainevent.co.za or visit themainevent.co.za The Party Planner Hires out equipment, arranges catering, draping, flower arranging and plans children’s themed parties.

Also offers a cleaning service for after the party. Heidelberg. Contact: 082 447 2491, info@thepartyplanner.co.za or visit thepartyplanner.co.za The Party Pros Packages include everything a party needs, from uniquely themed decor to home-baked cakes, interesting party packs and entertainers.

Contact: 083 483 6781, info@thepartypros. co.za or visit thepartypros.co.za Twinz Kiddies Party They specialise in the planning and setting up of themed children’s parties, jumping castle hire, adult mascots, themed 3D cakes, invitations, and table and chair hire. Contact: 082 501 8367, info@twinzkiddiesparty.co.za or visit twinzkiddiesparty.co.za

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Wonder Kids Parties & Functions Party planners with over 52 themes to choose from or they can customise. They design, create and deliver. Contact: 072 997 5298, info@wonderparties.co.za or visit wonderparties.co.za Wonderworld Parties They bring the party to you at your house or venue of your choice and will provide you with what you need. Northern suburbs, Randburg and West Rand. Contact: 082 556 2984 or angbus@lantic.net

sport parties Action Sports Offers netball and soccer. Equipment and an umpire provided for a two-hour party. Contact: 0861 122 8466, info@actionsports.co.za or visit actionsports.co.za Adventure ’n Beyond Adventure parties include activities such as a climbing wall, paintball, archery, air rifles and a gladiator inflatable obstacle course. Krugersdorp.

Contact: 083 449 9819, info@anb.co.za or visit anb.co.za Boot Camp SA Sergeants supervise as children 6 years and older scale cargo nets, traverse rope swings and leopard crawl. Fourways. Contact: 084 234 2668, headquarters@bootcamp-sa.co.za or visit bootcamp-sa.co.za Jozi X Action and adventure parties with an action world, trapeze, jungle swings, tightrope-walking and more. Bryanston.

Contact: 082 456 2358, info@jozix.co.za or visit jozix.co.za Laser Tag Extreme Laser tag games at a venue of your choice. Contact: 084 542 8689, info@lasertagextreme.co.za or visit lasertagextreme.co.za Let’s go Bowling Party package for children from 6 years includes a game, a burger and party packs.

Birthday cake is optional. Northcliff Corner and Brightwater Commons. Contact: 011 782 7035, 011 886 2116 or visit letsgobowling.co.za Little Kickers Football related activities and games for children from preschool to 8 years old. Contact: 0861 088 888, admin@littlekickers.co.za or visit littlekickers.co.za PWC Cycle Park Party package offers access to all the rides, a boma with a table and benches, and the services of an ER24 medic. Bryanston. Contact: 083 725 2453, cyclepark@cyclelab.com or visit cyclepark.co.za Quatro Bungy Kids They offer waterballs, inflatables, climbing walls, paint ball tunnels and pedal go-carts. Contact: 082 581 8715 or quatro.bungy@yahoo.com Randburg Raceway Suitable for children 1,1m and taller, and from the age of 7.

The party includes a 20-25 lap go-cart race with optional catering and party packs. Randburg. Contact: 011 792 2260, info@randburgraceway.co.za or visit randburgraceway.co.za

Soccercise Starz Birthday Parties One hour of high energy soccer fun and games with coaches at a venue of your choice.

Contact: 011 882 3428, info@soccerstarz. co.za or visit soccerstarz.co.za StokeCity WakePark A water-sports park with wakeboarding, waterskiing, kneeboarding or wakeskating. There is a volleyball court, skate ramp, huge pool, restaurant and private party room. Midrand.

Contact: 011 314 3589, chantal@stokecity. co.za or visit stokecity.co.za Superbowling Greenstone Tenpin bowling parties where you can bring your own party foods (drinks must be bought from them). Edenvale. Contact: 011 452 3502, greenstone@superbowling.co.za or visit superbowling.co.za S.W.A.T Lasertag For children 7 years and older. Play at one of their venues or your venue. This is a non-contact activity.

Contact: 079 188 0488, sean@swatlasertag. co.za or visit swatlasertag.co.za The Ice Rink Northgate Bring your own catering and party treats and set up on the table they provide. Randburg.

Contact: 011 794 8706, northgate@ theicerink.co.za or visit theicerink.co.za Wonderwall Climbing Gym All-weather option with catering, self-catering and no catering options. They can customise packages to suit your budget. Kya Sands. Contact: 011 708 6467, 083 501 8565, info@wonderwall.co.za or visit wonderwall.co.za

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books

a good read for toddlers

for preschoolers

Hello Kitty – Colours (Published by Ladybird Books, R58) This sturdy and colourful book introduces babies and toddlers to colours with cute Hello Kitty pictures. They can learn along with Kitty, her twin sister Mimmy, and their friends. There is a red apple, an orange flower, a yellow sun, a blue boat and more. The pages are wipe-clean and you can also invest in the other Hello Kitty books in the series to introduce your little one to numbers, letters and shapes.

Again!

By Emily Gravett

best bedt ime story

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R135) This story for children from the age of three is about a stubborn little dragon with a favourite book and a fiery temper. It’s nearly Cedric the dragon’s bedtime, and there is just enough time for his mom to read him his favourite book. Unfortunately for her, Cedric likes the story so much that he wants to hear it again… and again… and again, with incendiary consequences. This is a typically clever and irresistible book by a star talent for youngsters.

Gravett has won numerous awards for her picture books, which include Wolves, Monkey and Me, Blue Chameleon, Dogs and The Rabbit Problem.

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The Herd Boy

By Niki Daly

Lost in the Land of Kachoo, Who is King in the Land of Kachoo? and The Lion Hunts in the Land of Kachoo

By Tina Scotford and Frans Groenewald (Published by Jacana Media, R72 each) This is a series of wildly comical stories set in the fictional Land of Kachoo. In the first title a baby zebra gets lost and with the help of a rhino with very bad eyesight, he manages to find his family. In the second title King Lion is perceived as lazy, but the search for another king is not so easy. In the third title Lion is out hunting at night, but nothing goes according to plan. These local tales will delight and entertain young and old alike. The books also come with a set of character stickers.

Dinosaur Zoom!

By Penny Dale (Published by Nosy Crow, R88) Children from as young as two years old just love the Dinosaur series. Following on the success of Dinosaur Dig!, author and illustrator Penny Dale brings you another colourful and busy picture book. The dinosaurs are back and this time they’re revving, roaring and racing to a dinosaur birthday party. Bursting with dinosaurs and vehicles of all shapes and sizes, and with a delicious, surprise ending, this is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of small boys especially. In the back of the book Dale introduces young ones to all kinds of vehicles such as a convertible, an off-road, and a tractor and trailer.

(Published by Jacana Media, R88) Malusi is a herd boy who tends to his grandfather’s sheep and goats among the mountains of the Transkei. High above eagles fly, while on the ground below, beetles crawl, termites scurry and dust flies as Malusi plays games of stick-fighting with his friend. But there’s danger too. Can Malusi save his lambs from the hungry baboon that’s stalking the flock? And who is the old man in the shiny car who stops to chat, and encourages the herd boy in his dream of being president? This beautiful picture book is about a boy who dares to dream of a big future. It is a story of empowerment, self-belief and leadership, and is inspired by the life of former president Nelson Mandela.

for early graders Pup Idol

By Anna Wilson (Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R85) Young girls from the age of seven adore Anna Wilson’s books.

Pup Idol, the follow up to Puppy Love and Puppy Power, should be no exception. Since Summer’s parents gave her a Labrador puppy named Honey, her life has turned into an obedience school for doggies. Nevertheless, she loves Honey and when they’re together the world seems to be a better place. It’s showtime and Summer and Honey enter a talent contest as a spectacular dancing duo. The competition is tough, but they are determined to leap, prance and woof their way to success. Young girls find both Summer and Honey hilarious (Honey’s thoughts are written separately throughout the book), and if your child loves this book, also get the Pooch Parlour series by the same author.

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for early graders

for preteens and teens

I’m Dougal Trump and it’s not my fault

By D. Trump

White Dolphin

By Gill Lewis

(Published by Macmillan Children’s Books, R85) In this first book, football-loving Dougal Trump finds himself at risk from the mysterious creature living in the garden shed. Nobody believes him but, as a precaution, he sets upon writing his will – rewarding those who help him, disinheriting those who get on his bad side, and fielding constant pleas from friends and associates (“Cool will, Dougie! Can I have your PlayStation?” – George). Meanwhile, as rogue footballs and unhinged canines break limbs and windows, Dougal finds himself in all sorts of trouble. The character, Dougal, can best be described as a combination of Bart Simpson and Just William, and boys from the age of eight will love him.

Huberta’s Journey

By Cicely van Straten and Melany Pietersen (Published by Tafelberg Publishers, R110) This is a fictionalised account of the story of Huberta the hippopotamus, one of the most famous animals in South African history. In November 1928, Huberta left her waterhole in the St Lucia Estuary in KwaZulu-Natal and set off on a 1 600km journey to the Eastern Cape, a journey that would take her three years. In that time Huberta became a minor celebrity and attracted crowds wherever she went.

She was initially thought to be a male and was nicknamed Hubert by the press.

Despite her having been declared Royal Game (and thus protected) by the Natal Provincial Council, she was eventually shot by hunters.

for us The Chef

By Martin Suter

(Published by Oxford University Press, R105) When they first meet, Kara and Felix can’t stand each other. But on discovering an injured dolphin calf on the beach, they know they must work together to save it.

Now friends, they set out to find the truth behind the disappearance of Kara’s mother, and to protect the nearby reef. But powerful people don’t want them to succeed and with the odds stacked against them, how can Kara and Felix make their voices heard?

Bestselling author Michael Morpurgo says this about White Dolphin: “It opens your eyes, touches your heart, and is so engaging it almost turns the pages for you.”

A Little Princess

By Frances Hodgson Burnett (Published by Random House Struik, R90) This book is part of the Vintage Classic series, a selection of books children should have on their bookshelf. This well-known tale tells the story of Sara Crewe. Without her beloved father and miles from home, it is very hard for her to like her new life at boarding school. Luckily Sara is always dreaming up wonderful things and her powerful storytelling wins her lots of friends. When a letter arrives that brings disastrous news, the wicked headmistress, Miss Minchin, forces Sara to become a servant. Her lovely clothes and toys are taken away from her. She must work from dawn until midnight. How will Sara cope with her new-found poverty?

Can her imagination help her overcome this horrible situation?

parenting book a cine matic story

(Published by Atlantic Books, R192) As the financial crisis tightens its grip on Europe, the gilded world of Zurich’s leading restaurant, Chez Huwyler, seems immune to plunging stock markets and collapsing banks. But behind the scenes, even the rarefied world of haute cuisine is feeling the bite and so Maravan, a Tamil dishwasher and undiscovered culinary genius, and Andrea, a stunningly beautiful waitress, find themselves out of a job and needing to find another way to survive. After Maravan seduces Andrea with a meal made in heaven, she hits upon a business idea: romantic catering for couples. But even culinary magic can’t ward off recession and when their new company begins to struggle, they are forced to enter into a much more unsavoury business, plunging them deep into an underworld where murder and sex feed otherwise unquenchable thirsts.

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the hea rtwarmer

The Essential Guide to Bullying – Prevention and Intervention

By Cindy Miller and Cynthia Lowan (Published by Alpha Books, R176) This book brings together the wisdom and experience of two people who have witnessed the causes and tragic effects of bullying. School social worker Cindy Miller teams with Cynthia Lowen, the cocreator of the documentary Bully, to arm parents and teachers with the knowledge to understand the societal and human forces causing bullying to escalate. Discover who is most at risk for being bullied, being a bully, or not helping a bullying victim. Learn how to target-proof children and teach them coping skills. Find out how to identify even the most covert bullying situations and how to infiltrate the world of cyberbullying. Learn how you can intervene and know what legal recourse you have to back up other anti-bullying efforts.

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calendar

what’s on in may

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

Find out what’s happening in and around your city.

Compiled by SIMONE JEFFERY

10 fri

special events

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FUN for children

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only for parents

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bump, baby & tot in tow

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how to help

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SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Mystic India This colourful Bollywood music and dance spectacular is based on ancient India’s transition into modernity.

Tiny Bite Workshops Hands-on workshops that will teach you to ice biscuits and cakes like a professional.

Moms and babes Pilates Gentle exercises and stretches that will get babies using their bodies.

Ladies’ hat lunch Get your friends together and don your best bonnets for a lavish lunch in aid of the Diepsloot Preschools Project.

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

702 Mother’s Day Concert Plan your picnic, dust off your blankets and head to the zoo for a light classical concert dedicated to all mothers.

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SPECIAL EVENTS 1 wednesday The Campbells Live at Hillfox South Africa’s very own cowboys get the party going on Worker’s Day with their special mix of country, rock, pop and sokkie. The concert starts at 1pm. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: B&B Markets Hillfox, Hendrik Potgieter Dr, Hillfox Value Centre, Weltevreden Park. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 442 4488, info@craft. co.za or visit craft.co.za

1 May – The Campbells Live at Hillfox

Tour de Walkerville Join the annual charity walk, suitable for young and old, dogs, floats and strollers, through the Walkerville countryside. Various charities benefit from the proceeds. Time: 7am–1pm. Venue: Walkerville Farmer’s Market grounds, 112 Main Rd, off the R82, Walkerville. Cost: R30 per walker, R100 per float. Contact: 079 076 7680, gail@ wfmarket.co.za or visit wfmarket.co.za

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World of Wheels Five days of extreme drifting, track and circuit events, the globe of death bike stunts, Moller International flying saucer-style hovercraft, hot-air balloon rides, and lots more. The Guinness World Record attempt at the world’s biggest motorcycle parade takes place on Sunday. Ends 5 May. Time: from 9am. Venue: Kyalami Racing Circuit, 1 Allendale Rd, Midrand. Cost: adults R60, children R40, motorcycle parade R200.

Book through iTickets or at the gate: 086 1000 291 or visit itickets.co.za

4 saturday Artists under the sun Meet the artists as you walk around this open-air exhibition of fine art and sculpture, in a variety of mediums, styles and subjects.

Also 5 May. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Zoo Lake, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Westwold Way, Saxonwold. Cost: free entry. Contact Val: 083 470 1998 Big walk and market Bring your own chairs or blankets and take part in the “big” walk around the pre-primary school’s property. It’s an easy stroll that’s great for the whole family, from toddlers through to grannies. Food and drinks are on sale.

Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Elma Park PrePrimary School, 17 Adjutant Rd, Elma Park, Edenvale. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 453 9388 or elmaparkpps@mweb.co.za Kloofendal’s Spider-Man Enjoy an easy walk in the reserve looking for stealthy scorpions and spiders, under

the professional guidance of Jonathan Leeming, author of Scorpions of Southern Africa. Time: 8:50am–11am. Venue: meet at Friends of Kloofendal Environmental Education Centre, Kloofendal Nature Reserve, Galena St, Kloofendal. Cost: adults R50, pensioners R40, children under 12 years R25. Contact: 079 693 5608 or visit kloofendalfriends.org.za Teddy Bears on Parade A selection of imported and locally made teddy bears and plush animals are on display; great for serious collectors as well as for children seeking a cuddly companion. A wide range of bearmaking supplies are also available. Time: 9:30am–1pm. Venue: Edenvale Community Centre, cnr van Riebeeck Ave and 2nd St, Edenvale. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 828 7901 or info@vaharper.co.za

10 friday Celtic Fest Kilted or not, come and enjoy pipe bands, Irish and Highland dancing, drumming and highland games (including broadsword skirmishes) plus traditional foods such as haggis and square sausage, and a range of the finest whiskies. Ends 12 May. Time: 4pm–10pm, Friday; 8am–10pm, Saturday; 8am–5pm, Sunday. Venue: Modderfontein Sport Complex, Casino Rd, Modderfontein.

Cost: adults R50, pensioners and children R30, children under 4 free, weekend pass R120. Contact: info@celticfest.co.za, or visit celticfest.co.za

Sheepdog Trials Bring chairs, blankets, umbrellas and refreshments for a relaxing day in the countryside watching the Sasda sheepdog trials. These amazing hounds impress with their intelligence, focus and dedication as they round up herds of sheep. Also 11 May. Time: 8:30am.

Venue: Borderbrook Farm, Avianto Rd, Muldersdrift. Cost: adults R30, pensioners and children R15, children under 7 free.

Contact: 082 441 9646, emjammy@gmail. com or visit sasda.za.net

11 saturday An evening of astronomy Experience a guide through the universe by members of the Astronomical Society of Southern Africa (ASSA), using a wide selection of telescopes.

Time: 6pm. Venue: Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, end of Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort. Cost: members: adults R30, children R15; non-members: adults R60, children R30. Contact: botsoc@ sisulugarden.co.za World Belly Dance Day Take part in the Shimmython to see if you can “out-shimmy” the Shimmy Queen, enjoy performances by top belly dance studios and learn the art of belly dancing during one of the workshops. Donations of pet food, blankets and toys for Paws R Us are welcome. Time: 12pm–3pm. Venue: Brightwater Commons, Republic Rd, Randburg. Cost: shimmython entry R10. Contact: 011 789 5052 or visit worldbellydancedayjhb.wordpress.com

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18 sat

Carnival time at Thabile Nursery School The day starts with a fun walk around the block, followed by carnival games, a jumping castle and lots of tasty food and drinks. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: Thabile Nursery School, 18 Olympic Rd, Blairgowrie, Randburg. Cost: free entry, R65 for the walk. Contact: 011 787 7331, info@thabilens.co.za or visit thabilenurseryschool.co.za

12 sunday 702 Mother’s Day Concert Freshly Ground headlines alongside the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra with soloists Tim Moloi and Naz Holland. Pack a picnic, and head to the zoo for a light classical concert dedicated to all the mothers. There are jumping castles and face painters for the children. Time: from 9am. Venue: Joburg Zoo, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Upper Park Dr, Parkview. Cost: R40–R65. Book through Webtickets: visit webtickets.co.za Me-Nuts Kids Like2Bike series Whether it’s your child’s first time on a bicycle or if they’ve been riding for years they can enjoy this scenic, informal ride through the

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estate. Parents are able to run alongside their little ones. For children 2–12 years old. Time: from 9am. Venue: Helderfontein Estate, Fourways. Cost: R100. Contact: 083 326 6721, kirsty@like2bike.co.za or visit like2bike.co.za Trio Broz from Italy Sisters Barbara and Giada (violin and viola) and brother Klaus (cello) are celebrating their 20th anniversary and will dazzle you with works by Beethoven, Mozart and Latin-American composer Luis Bacalov. For children 8 years and older.

Time: 5pm–7pm. Venue: Linder Auditorium, 27 St Andrews Rd, Parktown. Cost: R130– R155. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

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18 saturday

The Baby Expo The expo looks after all your parenting needs, from the latest products to services and advice from the experts. There are play areas and the ever-popular Barney shows for children and educational talks and seminars for parents and parents-to-be. Ends 19 May. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave. Cost: adults R65, pensioners R50, children under 10 free. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit mamamagic.co.za

Gerard Sekoto talkabout Take a guided tour of the Gerard Sekoto exhibition, entitled Song for Sekoto, which honours the centenary of the artist’s birth. Children are able to take part in a craft and colouring-in activities. Booking is required.

Ends 30 May. Time: talkabout, 12pm– 1pm; museum’s hours 10am–4pm, Wednesday–Sunday. Venue: Wits Art Museum, Empire Rd, Braamfontein. Cost: free. Contact: 011 717 1378 or leigh. blanckenberg@wits.ac.za Granny, mommy and me bake-off Grannies, moms and children are invited to share in a special morning of baking a trio of high-tea treats to take home.

Space is limited. For children 3½ years and older. Time: 9:30am–11:30am. Venue: Taste Bud Cooking Studio, 3 Waterford Place Rd, Paulshof. Cost: R320 for mom, gran and child. Contact: 082 331 9987, nicola@tastebudstudio.co.za or visit tastebudstudio.co.za Talent International interview All ages are welcome to find out more about Talent International; a modelling, film, and television casting agency. Have all your questions answered before you make the decision to register. Time: 10am–1pm.

Venue: Studio 4, Phidias Centre, cnr 7th St and Van Riebeeck Ave, Edenvale. Cost: interview free, registration R700; photos from R150 per outfit. Contact: 011 452 7475 or visit talentinternational.co.za

17 friday Ladybird Corner’s 1 st Birthday Celebrate with jumping castles, cake, face painters, pamper sessions, goodie bags and more. Booking essential. Also 18 May. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: 24 12th Ave, Linksfield Netcare Hospital. Cost: free entry. Contact: 011 485 3057 or info@ ladybirdcorner.co.za

12 May – Trio Broz from Italy

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calendar Wheelchair nature outing This is a guided nature excursion for people in wheelchairs.

The tour is conducted on paved roads and flat surfaces. Assistants and/or partners enter the garden at no charge. Space is limited.

Time: 9am. Venue: main entrance at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, Malcolm Rd, , Roodepoort. Cost: members: adults R30, children R15; non-members: adults R60, children R30. Contact: botsoc@ sisulugarden.co.za

19 sunday Dads’ and lads’ golf clinic A 12-hole par-three golf course is ideal for children and easy for beginners. You can also bring your own fishing rods and enjoy a spot of fishing after lunch. For children 6 years and older. Time: 9am. Venue: Protea Hotel Ranch Resort, Limpopo. Cost: adults R290, children R195 per person (includes lunch and fishing). Contact: 015 290 5000 (accommodation), 082 399 0276 (golf enquiries), reservations@theranch.co.za or visit theranch.co.za Wozani − Discover the Orchestra Six of the orchestras and ensembles of the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra Company, from intermediate to senior level, perform and conduct instrument demonstrations.

Time: 3pm. Venue: auditorium at the UJ Arts Centre, Auckland Park. Cost: R50. Contact: 011 484 1257, info@orchestracompany. org.za or visit jyoc.org.za Zoo trot This is a great way to enjoy a physical outdoor activity. Suitable for all ages, the 5km or 10km fun run or walk takes you through the zoo’s tranquil settings.

Time: 7am. Venue: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview. Cost: R40. Contact: 011 646 2000 or visit jhbzoo.org.za

24 friday Learning Point Education Exhibition Pose questions to top schools (preschools to high schools) regarding your child’s education. Each school is unique in their approach and they offer presentations at their stands. Ends 26 May. Time: 9am–9pm, Friday; 9am–7pm, Saturday; 9am–5pm, Sunday. Venue: Piazza Court, Clearwater Mall, cnr Hendrik Potgieter Dr and Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley. Cost: free. Contact: 083 552 8778, dkevents@ mweb.co.za or visit thelearningpoint.co.za Outdoor Expo Outdoor enthusiasts can find the latest products for their next adventure while enjoying live entertainment and various food stalls. Ends 26 May. Time: 10am–5pm, Friday; 9am–5pm, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Waterfall Polo Estate, Woodmead Dr, Waterfall, Midrand. Cost: adults R55, pensioners and students R30, children 7–16 years old R15, children under 7 free, R10 per vehicle. Contact: 011 803 9362 or visit gauteng.outdoorexpo.co.za

25 saturday A miniature showcase View the intricate details of the dollhouses and miniature accessories on display and purchase supplies. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: Parkhurst Recreation Centre Hall, cnr 13th St and 5th Ave, Parkhurst. Cost: free, donations to cerebral palsy welcome. Contact: 011 787 2340 or miniatures@telkomsa.net

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Bagpipes under African skies Enjoy pipe bands and highland dancing as the members of the Pipe Bands’ Association of SA compete towards the Regional Champion Award. There is children’s entertainment, a market, food court and tea garden. Time: 8:30am–4pm. Venue: De La Salle Holy Cross College, Victory Park. Cost: tbc. Contact: 083 448 4046 or visit pbasa.co.za Jumpathon for charity Join the Alberton nursery schools, in aid of St Mary’s Children’s Home. All children receive a goodie bag and proceeds go to the home. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Jungle Rumble, Panorama Shopping Centre, cnr Klipriver Rd and Jordi Rd, Mulbarton. Cost: R40–R65. Contact: 011 432 0403 or visit junglerumble.co.za Kingsmead RMB Book Fair Workshops and discussions are held by top figures in literature, such as Marguerite Poland, Hlumelo Biko, Redi Thlabi and acclaimed British novelist Anthony Horowitz. Time: 9am–late. Venue: Kingsmead College, 132 Oxford Rd, Melrose. Cost: adults R100, children R50. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.co.za Sasol Bird Fair 2013 A two-day fair packed with lectures on topical subjects, as well as workshops, guided walks and activities for children. This year’s theme is Conserving our Wetlands. Also 26 May. Time: 8:30am–5:30pm. Venue: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview. Cost: adults R58, children R36. Contact: events@ birdlife.org.za or visit birdlife.org.za

28 tuesday Johannesburg Youth Orchestra This is a full symphony orchestra and the repertoire includes music from the classics, popular music, music from the movies and African music. Time: 5:30pm. Venue: UJ Arts Centre Theatre, Auckland Park. Cost: R80, pensioners and students R50. Contact: 011 484 1257, info@orchestracompany.org.za or visit orchestracompany.org.za

24 fri

Grand Designs Live This expo is packed with inspiring ideas for your home and garden.

There are dedicated sections for kitchens and bathrooms, interiors, gardens, DIY and more, as well as experts on hand to offer you brilliant makeover advice.

Ends 26 May. Time: 10am– 6pm. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave. Cost: adults R85, pensioners R60, children under 12 free. Contact: 011 835 1565 or visit granddesignslive.co.za

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31 May – The MTN Bushfire Festival

World Play Day A day that encourages children to explore new ways of learning and gives adults a chance to connect with their inner child. This year’s theme is: making sense of play, with activities aimed at stimulating children’s senses. Venue: your nearest Cotlands toy library or at your work or school. Cost: toys or monetary donations welcome. Contact: 011 683 7200 or visit cotlands.org

31 friday The MTN Bushfire Festival A three-day music and arts festival that promotes creative expression and social responsibility. There is a family programme and Kidzone that includes workshops, storytelling, fairground rides, farm animals and more. All the proceeds raised from the festival are donated to charity. Ends 2 June. Time: all day. Venue: Malkerns Valley, Swaziland. Cost: day ticket: adults R200, children R50; festival pass: adults R450, children R150. For more info: visit bush-fire.com Education and career exhibition From toddler to tertiary, everything you need to educate your child is on exhibition, from schools (preschools to high schools), educational products and extralesson options to stands by educational psychologists or those offering gap-year options or colleges to study at after matric. For children 1–19 years old. Ends 2 June. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Melrose Arch Precinct, Athol Oaklands Dr, Melrose North. Cost: free. Contact: 083 552 8778, dkevents@ mweb.co.za or visit thelearningpoint.co.za Tekkie Tax Buy your sticker and wear your funkiest tekkies to school or work. Your R10 donation goes to the beneficiary of your choice: animals, basic community welfare, children, disabilities and education. Venue: nationwide. Cost: R10 for a sticker. Contact: 012 663 8181, tekkietax@mweb.co.za or visit tekkietax.co.za

Junior First Lego League Disaster Blast Registrations to take part in the 2013 league open 1 May. This year children can explore natural disasters, and design and construct a working model using Lego bricks and moving parts to solve a specific problem. For children 6–9 years old. Venue: nationwide.

Cost: R200 per team. Contact: 082 851 8892 or visit jfllsa.org Heads & Tales Exhibition The pieces were inspired by artist Trevor Coleman’s travels in Madagascar, Morocco, Zanzibar and Ghana. It depicts the strength, beauty and presence of the African women he saw on the beaches there. 5–12 May. Time: 12pm–4pm. Venue: Upstairs @ Bamboo, Bamboo Lifestyle Centre, cnr Rustenburg Rd and 9th St, Melville. Cost: free entry.

Contact: 011 726 1701/5657, alisong@ kingsley.co.za or visit bamboo-online.co.za Looking as Learning ll The exhibition showcases works from JAG’s permanent collection, exploring a chronological sequence of South African and international art trends based on the national secondary school visual-art curriculum. 7 April– 10 August. Time: 10am–5pm. Venue: The Johannesburg Art Gallery, Joubert Park, entrance in King George St, Joburg CBD. Cost: free. Contact: 011 725 3184, jag@ joburg.org.za or visit joburgculture.co.za/ museums-galleries/jag

classes, talks and workshops Bead workshop Children select their own beads to create jewellery and other accessories. 2 May. Time: 10am–11am.

Venue: Seedpod Studio Parkhurst, 13 4th Ave, Parkhurst. Cost: R100. Contact: 011 447 0006 or visit seedpodstudio.co.za Buzz drama, dance and singing Weekly interactive drama, dance and singing workshops that are custom designed to develop your child’s confidence, communication skills and coordination as they take part in improvised play, learn dance routines and sing songs. Booking

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Body Worlds Exhibition: The Cycle of Life Change the way you see yourself at the first anatomical exhibition of its kind to display real human bodies. Ends 30 June.

Time: 9am–6:30pm, daily. Venue: Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, cnr Miriam Makeba Rd and President St, Newtown. Cost: adults R140, seniors and students R110, children R90, family ticket (two adults and two children) R400. Contact: 071 547 5558 or visit bodyworlds.co.za magazine joburg

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calendar essential. For children 5–9 years old. Time: varies. Venue: venues across Joburg; new venues just launched in Linksfield and Rosebank. Cost: free trial class. Contact Hanneke: 011 025 2525, info@buzzdrama. com or visit buzzdrama.com Crime awareness A one-hour guided lesson on how your children should handle emergency situations involving crime. For children 6 years old and older. 18 May. Time: 9am–1pm. Venue: The Academy of Light, 160 Coleraine Dr, Rivonia.

Cost: R100 per person. Contact: 083 677 1402, madpupssa@gmail.com or visit madpups.co.za Drug and alcohol abuse A talk to educate children so that they don’t go down the path of drug and alcohol abuse, and understand the effects that abuse has on them and their families. For children 10 years and older. 25 May. Time: 9am–11:30am. Venue: The Academy of Light, 160 Coleraine Dr, Rivonia. Cost: R100 per person. Contact: 083 677 1402, madpupssa@gmail.com or visit madpups.co.za Kidz Take Over Drama School Children are taught acting skills for the stage. Each course runs for three months at the end of which they stage a production at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton City.

For children 6–18 years old. Starts 10, 11 and 15 May. Time: varies. Venue: 10 May: The Italian Club, 7 Marais Rd, Bedfordview, Edenvale; 11 May: The Dance Zone, Bryan Park Shopping Centre, cnr Cumberland Rd

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and Grosvenor Rd, Bryanston; 15 May: The Mustard Seed, 153 Van Dalen Rd South, Ruimsig. Cost: children 6–13 years old R1 250 per course, teenagers 14–18 years old R1 450 per course. Contact: 082 871 0034, shaye@kto.co.za or visit kto.co.za

Mother’s Day with Belle’s Patisserie Make sure your mom gets her piece of the pie this Mother’s Day by treating her to a delicious breakfast, lunch or high tea.

12 May. Time: 8:30am–3pm.

Venue: Belle’s Patisserie, Bluebird Shopping Centre, shop no 16, cnr Atholl Oaklands Rd and Fort St, Birnam. Cost: breakfast R270 for two people, lunch R320 for two people, high tea R140 per person.

Contact: 082 944 4018 or visit bellespatisserie.co.za

12 sun

family outings Honeydew Mazes Wind your way through the maize maze, deciphering the brain-teasers and quizzes along the way.

This year’s theme is Great White Sharks.

Picnics are welcome. Time: 10am–5pm, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Honeydew Mazes, Boland St, Honeydew. Cost: adults R90, children R65, family ticket (two adults and two children) R280. Contact: 073 795 2174, enquiries@maizemaze. co.za or visit honeydewmazes.co.za In the country with Manie Jackson Treat Mom to a three-course luncheon and performance by country singer Manie Jackson. Bookings essential. 12 May. Time: 12:30pm. Venue: Banquet Hall at Garden World, off Beyers Naudé Dr, Muldersdrift.

Cost: adults R240, children 4–10 years old R170. Contact: 011 957 2545, 083 997 6142 or visit gardenworld.co.za Mother’s Day at Eagle’s Fare Mothers are spoilt for choice at the buffet lunch. Children can enjoy playing on the nearby jungle gym or take a trip on the minitrain. 12 May. Time: 12pm–2:30pm. Venue: Eagle’s Fare, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort. Cost: adults R185, children 6–12 years old R90, children 3–5 years old R50. Contact: 082 671 8382, 083 414 9843, eat@eaglesfare.co.za or visit eaglesfare.co.za Mother’s Day at Stonehaven on Vaal Spoil your mom with a special two-hour cruising breakfast or luncheon buffet.

Stonehaven boasts over a thousand rose bushes, and a garden alfresco restaurant on the banks of the Vaal River. 12 May. Time: 8am–11pm. Venue: Stonehaven on Vaal, next to Baddrift bridge, Sylviavale Ah, Vaal River, Vanderbijlpark. Cost: varies. Contact: 016 982 2951, info@stonehaven.co.za or visit stonehaven.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Douglasdale Dairy Tours Children can learn about Douglasdale milk products and the process the milk goes through from beginning to end. Tours take place from Monday to Friday. Booking essential. For children 4 years and older. Time: 9am–12pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Douglasdale Dairy, Waterloo Rd, Bryanston. Cost: free. Contact: dairytours@douglasdale.co.za or visit douglasdale.co.za FroK Junior Ranger Programme Aspirant junior rangers can answer the set of questions on display in the Friends of Kloofendal Environmental Education Centre (FroK EE Centre), with help from their parents or older siblings, to attain a coveted badge. For children 5–12 years old. 19 May. Time: 2:30pm–5pm. Venue: Kloofendal Nature Reserve, Galena St, Kloofendal. Cost: R25. Contact: 084 337 2929 or visit kloofendalfriends.org.za Live snake show Learn more about South Africa’s harmless and deadly snakes during the live demonstrations. Time:

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11am and 3pm, Monday–Saturday. Venue: Hunyani Reptile Educational and Breeding Centre, 17 Voortrekker Ave, Edenvale. Cost: R25. Contact: 011 453 3257, wildgear@ telkomsa.net or visit snakecity.co.za Zoo snooze Rough it during an overnight camp at the zoo where you are treated to a behind-the-scenes tour. Booking essential.

11 May. Time: 2:30pm–8am. Venue: Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Ave, Parkview.

Cost: R90–R130. Contact: 011 646 2000 ext 216, lebo.moalusi@jhbzoo.org.za or visit jhbzoo.org.za

holiday programmes Fun first aid Dangers in the home and around us are discussed and topics cover basic CPR, how to handle choking, shock, bleeding and injuries and calling the emergency services. Booking essential. For children 7–13 years old. 3 May. Time: 8am–2pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North. Cost: R275.

Contact: 011 447 5517, db@domesticbliss. co.za or visit domesticbliss.co.za Holidays at Serendipity Children are kept engaged during a full-day or half-day programme with baking, art and crafts and organised games. 12 April–7 May. Time: 9am–5pm, Tuesday–Friday, 8:30am–5pm, Saturday; 8:30am–4:30pm, Sunday. Venue: 48 Keyes Ave, Rosebank. Cost: R150–R240 (includes lunch and refreshments). Contact: 011 447 7386, serendipityplay@gmail.com or visit serendipityplay.co.za

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10,11 and 15 May – Kidz Take Over Drama School

Jungle Joes’ holiday programme This varied yet structured holiday programme keeps children busy with a daily project, as well as allowing for free play, singing and story times. For children 2–7 years old.

Booking essential. 15 April–10 May. Time: 8am–1pm. Venue: 205 Corlett Dr, Bramley.

Cost: R100 per morning (includes a snack).

Contact: 011 887 1771, info@junglejoes. co.za or visit junglejoes.co.za My World holiday programme The staff take care of your children during a holiday programme that comprises theatre groups, dress-up days and more.

For children 2–5 years old. 15 April–6 May. Time: 7am–5:30pm. Venue: My World, 78 Worcester Rd, Parkwood. Cost: R3 780 per child (includes meals). Contact: 011 447 9014, 084 711 7899, info@thisismyworld. co.za or visit thisismyworld.co.za Taste Bud Studio’s holiday workshop Children learn to cook chicken chow mein and coconut cookies on Wednesday;

and mouth-watering pizza with coloured mini meringues for dessert on Thursday. Booking essential. For children 4 years and older.

1 and 2 May. Time: 8:30am–12pm. Venue: Taste Bud Cooking Studio, 3 Waterford Place Rd, Paulshof. Cost: R230 (includes all equipment and ingredients). Contact: 082 331 9987, nicola@tastebudstudio.co.za or visit tastebudstudio.co.za

markets Askari Lodge Farmer’s Market An authentic Boeremark where you can browse through the craft and food stalls that are set up among the ox wagons and heritage museum. Enjoy koeksisters, melktert, potjiekos, mampoer and gingerbeer and watch the elephants play in the dam.

5 May. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Askari Game Lodge, Plumari Private Game Reserve, Magaliesberg. Cost: donation of a secondhand book. Contact: 014 577 2658/9, info@ askarilodge.co.za or visit askarilodge.co.za

Books2You Book Fair There are hundreds of books to discover, from blockbusting bestsellers to fantastic nonfiction. Every book bought helps get free books for your school. 6 and 7 May. Time: 10am–3:30pm, Monday; 7:30am–2pm, Tuesday. Venue: Blairgowrie. Cost: free.

Contact: 031 705 7744 SAID monthly book sale Find a literary treasure among the many books on offer at The Society for Animals in Distress’s fundraising book sale. 25 May. Time: 8:30am–1pm. Venue: The Rosebank Mews, Oxford Rd, Rosebank. Cost: varies. Contact: 083 643 9480, animals@animalsindistress. org.za or visit animalsindistress.org.za Wholefood Market This new market is set inside the recently renovated shopping centre. A varied selection of fresh food, organic produce and deli items is available.

Time: 9am–2pm, every Sunday. Venue: Victory Park Shopping Centre, Rustenburg Rd, Victory Park. Cost: free entry. Contact: 083 311 4768, wholefoodmarket@gmail. com or visit wholefoodmarketsa.com

on stage and screen Enchanting puppet shows The talented puppet masters from Untangled Marionettes perform in various puppet shows throughout May. 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 25 May. Time: 3:30pm. Venue: Kinderspiel, 39 Greenhill Rd, Emmarentia.

Cost: R50. Contact: 011 646 7457 or emma.kinderspiel@telkomsa.net

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Slip sliding in style Children can have a go at bumboarding and slope surfing down The Ski Deck’s 20m ski slope or rough and tumble on the jungle gym, trampoline and rolling log.

For children 3 years and older. Time: 2pm–4pm, Tuesday and Thursday. Venue: The Ski Deck, 74 Bond St, cnr Bond St and Elgin Rd, Ferndale. Cost: R80 for 2 hours. Contact: 011 781 6528, info@ski.co.za or visit ski.co.za

Kidz Rock This show features music from Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, One Direction, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus and more. 1, 4, 18 and 25 May. Time: 2pm. Venue: 4 May: Barnyard Theatre Rivonia, cnr Witkoppen Rd and Achter Rd, Paulshof; 1 and 25 May: Barnyard Theatre Cresta, Randburg; 18 May: Barnyard Theatre Boksburg, East Rand Galleria, Boksburg. Cost: R80. For more info: visit barnyardtheatres.co.za Mystic India This Bollywood music and dance spectacular is based on ancient India’s transition into modern times. 7–26 May. Time: 8pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 3pm, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Theatre of the Marcellus, Emperors Palace, Kempton Park. Cost: R185–R290. Book through the Emperors Palace box office: 011 928 1297/1213 or visit emperorspalace.com Shakespeare’s Othello Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, with its central themes of racism, love, jealousy and betrayal, is just as relevant to today’s audiences as it has ever been. 6–17 May. Time: 9am and 12pm, daily. Venue: University of Johannesburg, cnr Kingsway Rd and University Rd, Auckland Park. Cost: adults R80, children R50. Contact: 083 251 9412

playtime and story time Baking and Cooking Buddies Children blend an assortment of ingredients together to make sweet and savoury morsels.

Booking essential. For children 2 years and older. Time: 3pm–4pm, every Monday; 2:45pm–4pm, every Wednesday. Venue:

Glow Mini Golf at The Fun Company

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Ladybird Corner, 24 12th Ave, Linksfield Netcare Hospital. Cost: R300 per month (ingredients included). Contact Lerato: 011 485 3057 or info@ladybirdcorner.co.za Glow Mini Golf Miniature golf takes on a surreal experience when it is done surrounded by the luminescent carnivalthemed decorations that are lit up by UV lights. For children 4 years and older. Time: 9am–11pm, daily. Venue: The Fun Company, Carnival Mall, cnr Heidelberg Rd and Airport Rd, Dalpark Ext 5, Brakpan. Cost: R25 per person for nine holes. Contact: 011 915 8874 or visit thefuncompany.co.za Love Books storytelling Story time to keep children engaged while you browse the stalls of the market or pop into the gallery. Children younger than 4 must be accompanied by an adult. For children 4–8 years old. Time: 10am, every Saturday.

Venue: Love Books, Bamboo Centre, cnr Rustenburg Rd and 9th St, Melville.

Cost: free. Contact: 011 726 7408, kate@ lovebooks.co.za or visit lovebooks.co.za Story time at National Children’s Theatre Children learn storytelling, acting, movement, interpretation, sing along, communication, music appreciation and rhythm. Space is limited. For children 4–7 years old. 4 May–15 June. Time: 9am–10am, every Saturday. Venue: Story Room, National Children’s Theatre, 3 Junction Ave, Parktown. Cost: R150 per term. Contact: 011 484 1584, cindy@nctt.org.za or visit nationalchildrenstheatre.org.za

sport and physical activities Can you Survive or Race? Take part in your own reality show and challenge your friends to see who is the ultimate Survivor or Amazing Race contestant. Swimming pools and braai facilities are available. For children 6 years and older. Time: 9am, 12pm or 3pm time slots, Saturday and Sunday.

Venue: Pelindaba, Hartbeespoort Dam. Cost: adults R220, children R165. Contact: 082 895 2513, admin@surviveorrace.co.za or visit surviveorrace.co.za Walk through Albert’s Farm A guided walk that leads you along the network of paths through the park and takes you to the dam and wetland area. Dogs welcome.

19 May. Time: 8am. Venue: meet in the car park of Albert’s Farm, 8th St, Northcliff. Cost: R20. Contact: 082 674 6912 magazine joburg

only for parents classes, talks and workshops ADHASA Parents Conference An informative conference for parents of children with ADHD. 18 and 19 May. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Randburg. Cost: R850.

Contact: 011 888 7655, info@adhasa.co.za or visit adhasa.co.za Building your emotional resilience Being emotionally aware allows you to manage your own emotions effectively, which facilitates harmonious interaction with others. 11 May. Time: 9am–11am.

Venue: PsychMatters, 9 Park St, Bedfordview. Cost: R500. Contact: 011 450 3576, info@psychmatters.co.za or visit psychmatters.co.za Creative giftwrapping workshop The course starts with tea and light pastries, followed by demonstrations of different giftwrapping and ribbon bowmaking techniques. Space is limited. 11 May. Time: 8am–12pm or 12pm–4pm.

Venue: 15 Komari Rd, Paulshof. Cost: R390 (includes all materials and a starter pack).

Contact: sonja@packagingsource.co.za or visit packagingsource.co.za/products/giftwrapping-workshop Elementary cooking course Have your domestic worker trained on a five-week, accredited “results guaranteed” cooking course, covering family favourites and healthy, home-cooked meals. Starts 29 May. Time: 8:30am–2pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North.

Cost: R2 250. Contact: 011 447 5517, 083 525 4992 or visit domesticbliss.co.za First aid and CPR course for nannies Have your domestic worker trained on a two-week first aid and CPR course presented by an accredited trainer to ensure your peace of mind when leaving your most precious “possessions” in your childminder’s care. Starts 18 May. Time: 8:30am–4pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North. Cost: R1 380. Contact: 011 447 5517, 083 525 4992 or visit domesticbliss.co.za First aid for parents Learn the basics in first aid and be better informed the next time an emergency arises. 18 May. Time: 1pm–4:30pm. Venue: Learn More, Randpark Ridge. Cost: R350. Contact: 071 435 3260 or jackiedummer1@gmail.com Left-handed learning Learn how small changes can make a huge difference in the development of fine motor skills in left-handed children 4–9 years old.

13 May. Time: 7pm–8pm. Venue: Bellavista School, 35 Wingfield Ave, Birdhaven.

Cost: R80. Contact: 011 788 5454, admin@bellavistaschool.co.za or visit bellavista.org.za Mad Pups CPR course A basic CPR course that covers CPR and choking in adults, children and infants, as well as the emergency response plan that covers who to call and how to make that call.

Bookings essential. For individuals 13 years and older. 11 May. Time: 8:30am–12pm.

Venue: Green Genes Wellness Centre, 39 St Albans Ave, Craighall Park. Cost: R320.

Contact: 083 677 1402, madpupssa@ gmail.com or visit madpups.co.za magazine joburg

Mexican smalti workshop This is a weekend-long introduction into the art of Mexican smalti, which is the traditional handmade glass used in mosaics. 11 and 12 May. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Seedpod Studio Parkhurst, 13 4th Ave, Parkhurst. Cost: R1 400. Contact: 011 447 0006, marilyn@ seedpodstudio.co.za or visit melmiller.co.za Nanny and employer course A one-day course offers a holistic approach to help your nanny care for your little one with an emphasis on developmental stimulation.

25 May. Time: 8:30am–2:30pm. Venue: 25 Rodene Ave, Glen Vista. Cost: R950.

Contact: 082 040 8418, info@ohsoexciting. co.za or visit ohsoexciting.co.za Tiny Bite Workshops Learn how to ice biscuits and cakes like a pro. Booking essential. 1 and 3 May: biscuit bouquet; 11 May cupcakes for Mother’s Day. Time: 9am–12pm. Venue: Sandton. Cost: R350 per workshop. Contact: 082 927 9763, allison@tinybite.co.za or visit tinybite.co.za Winter cooking programme Introduce delicious meals, which are nutritionally sound and utilise seasonal ingredients into your housekeeper’s repertoire. The classes are held over three Thursday mornings. Starts 23 May. Time: 8:45am–1pm. Venue: Domestic Bliss, 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North.

Cost: R1 450. Contact: 011 447 5517, 083 525 4992 or visit domesticbliss.co.za

on stage and screen An Audience with Pieter-Dirk EISH Audience members select a box on the stage to determine which one of 80 characters and sketches (either a drama, comedy, farce or shocking exposé) that PieterDirk Uys will cleverly act out. 6–25 May. Time: 8:15pm, Monday–Saturday; 6pm, Saturday. Venue: Theatre on the Square, cnr 5th Ave and Rivonia Rd, Sandton. Cost: R107. Book through Strictly Tickets: 082 553 5901 or visit strictlytickets.com Defending the Caveman Alan Committie is back with Rob Becker’s insightful comedy about the ways that men and women fight, laugh and love. 8 May–9 June.

Time: 8pm, Wednesday–Saturday; 5pm, Saturday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Pieter Toerien’s Montecasino Theatre, cnr William Nicol Dr and Witkoppen Rd, Fourways.

Cost: R100–R160. Contact: 011 511 1818 or visit montecasino.co.za The King of Satire Prepare for an evening of uproarious laughter as Loyiso Gola presents Professional Black. No under 16s. 30 April– 12 May. Time: 8pm, Tuesday–Saturday; 5pm, Sunday. Venue: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein. Cost: R130.

Book through the Joburg Theatre: 0861 670 670 or visit joburgtheatre.com

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out and about Around the world dinner Get involved in this monthly supper club where you can enjoy cuisine from around the world.

Bookings essential. 16 May. Time: 6pm.

Venue: The Forum, 1st floor Wanderers Building, The Campus Office Park, 57 Sloane St, Bryanston. Cost: R295, including a welcome drink and a four-course meal.

Contact: 011 575 6319, gregory.cloete@ theforum.co.za or visit theforum.co.za Dainfern College open day After an address by the principal, parents and learners can tour the school. 9 May. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Dainfern College, Broadacres Dr, Dainfern. Cost: free. Contact: 011 469 0635, tblyth@dainferncollege. co.za or visit dainferncollege.co.za Dinner with a bone detective After dinner you can enjoy a discussion with scientist Brendon Billings. He reveals the secrets of our past and presents a selection of incredible fossil casts. 18 May. Time: 6pm. Venue: Maropeng Hotel, Cradle of Humankind. Cost: R375. Contact: 014 577 9000 or visit maropeng.co.za Drumming Circle Bring blankets, cushions and your own drinks, for an evening of drumming. Drums are available.

10 May. Time: 7pm. Venue: 193 Longleat Ave, Chartwell, Fourways. Cost: R45.

Contact: 011 0471583, 084 389 6814 or visit drumconnection.co.za Elma Park’s golf day A school fundraiser. 23 May. Time: 11am. Venue:

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support groups The Greatest Love of All

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Modderfontain Golf Course, Golf Rd, Lethabong. Cost: R450 per individual, R1 800 per four-ball. Contact: 011 453 9388 or elmaparkpps@mweb.co.za Mother’s morning tea Enjoy a talk by the author of Altevier, Marlize Leyden, which deals with her experience as a foster parent.

18 May. Time: 9:30am. Venue: Northcliff Nursery School, 187 Acacia Rd, Northcliff.

Cost: R80. Contact: lauren@mac4.co.za or visit northcliffnurseryschool.co.za Open days at Acorn to Oak Montessori Parents of children 3–6 years old can view this new nursery school by appointment. Time: 8am–5pm. Venue: Northcliff. Cost: free. Contact: 082 660 4203, feeleeceetee@gmail.com or visit acorntooakdotnet.wordpress.com Our deep southern skies Enjoy an informative dinner talk, illustrated with

After auditioning thousands of potentials around the world, the lead role for this tribute to the amazing Whitney Houston was given to South African-born Belinda Davids. 9 May– 2 June. Time: 8pm, Thursday–Saturday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein.

Cost: R100–R250. Book through the Joburg Theatre: 0861 670 670 or visit joburgtheatre.com

astrophoto images. Bring your binoculars. 4 May. Time: 6pm. Venue: Maropeng Hotel, Cradle of Humankind. Cost: R350 (includes presentation and 3-course dinner). Contact: 014 577 9000 or visit maropeng.co.za Rising Stars Careers Expo An expo for learners, matriculants, tertiary students and graduates. The event gives them the opportunity find out more about careers that interest them, internships, mentors, recruitment and more. 24 May. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Protea Hotel Parktonian, Braamfontein. Cost: free entry. Contact: 072 910 9378 or info@fezekisacom.co.za St Andrew’s School for Girls open day Meet the teachers and tour the school. 24 May. Time: preschool for boys and girls 9am–12pm; junior school for girls 9am–1pm.

Venue: Senderwood. Cost: free. Contact: 011 453 9408 or visit standrews.co.za

Guild Cottage The centre provides a home and treatment for sexually abused and traumatised children. Venue: Guild Rd, Parktown West. Contact: 011 726 2102, GuildCot2@mweb.co.za or visit facebook. com/GuildCot Mom Squad For new or expectant moms to share the joys and challenges of motherhood under the guidance of a doctor and two moms. Time: 9am–11am, every Saturday.

Venue: 4 Pafuri Rd, Emmarentia. Cost: R10 donation for refreshments. Contact: 083 226 7130 or vandermerwekj@gmail.com Parents of epileptic children The centre conducts monthly get-togethers for parents who have epileptic or special-needs children. Venue: The Mitchell Centre, Paulshof. Cost: free. Contact: 083 574 9212, don001@webmail.co.za or visit parentsofepileptickids.co.za

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops BabyGym This 5-week course for you and your baby helps you stimulate your baby. Learn how to help your baby reach all milestones. For moms with babies 2 weeks–1 year old. Starts 24 May. Time: 9:30am–11am, every Monday. Venue: The Children’s Therapy Centre, Petervale/ Bryanston. Cost: R630. Contact Joanne: 083 3031190 or joanne.bradley@babygym.co.za

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Brainbooster parent workshop Parents learn how to play with their children while teaching them. For parents of children 0–6 years old. 4 May. Time: 9am–10am. Venue: Hammets Crossing Office Park, 2 Selbourne Rd, Fourways. Cost: R350. Contact: 083 625 8033 or visit nanniesintraining.co.za Couples’ antenatal classes Eight-week course starts 22 May. Time: 6:30pm–9pm.

Venue: Ida’s Baby Clinic, 12 De Klerk Rd, Florentia, Alberton. Cost: tbc. Contact: 083 289 5149, 074 196 9445, idasbabyclinic@ gmail.com or visit babyclinic1.co.za Essential birth preparation Learn about birthing methods, labour, partner guidance and breast-feeding basics. Booking essential.

24–26 May. Time: 6:30pm–9:30pm, Friday; 8:30am–1pm, Saturday; 8:30am–12pm, Sunday. Venue: Genesis Clinic, cnr Jan Smuts Ave and Northwold Dr, Saxonwold. Cost: R1 400. Contact: support@motherinstinct. co.za or visit motherinstinct.co.za

Learn to massage your baby A 4-week course for you and your baby. Learn how to soothe problems such as colic, sleep and bonding issues with massage. For moms with babies 2 weeks–1 year old. Starts 30 May. Time: 11:30am–1pm, every Monday.

Venue: The Children’s Therapy Centre Petervale. Cost: R480. Contact Joanne: 083 3031190 or joannebradley@global.co.za

playtime and story time Moms and babes Pilates Gentle exercises and stretches get babies using their bodies and help you get back into shape. Bookings essential. Time: 11:45am–12:45pm, every Friday. Venue: Ladybird Corner, 24 12th Ave, Linksfield Netcare Hospital. Cost: R100 per drop in class. Contact: 011 485 3057 or info@ladybirdcorner.co.za Troopers Childcare Centre Children are cared for in a safe environment while you shop. For children 3 months–6 years old.

Little Sunflowers Daycare This baby daycare centre cares for premature and small babies up to the age of three. The dedicated ICU nurses provide the care and attention the newborn babies need, giving the working parents peace of mind. Venue: same premises as the Methodist Church, 174 Blandford Rd, Randburg. Contact Riana: 082 418 3963 or Joanne: 076 333 7385

Time: 6am–6pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: basement 3, Melrose Arch. Cost: tbc.

Contact: 011 430 7676

support groups Born Sleeping For parents of miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death to share their experiences. Contact Nicole: 084 524 1541/2, bornsleeping@gmail.com or visit bornsleeping.googlepages.com Down’s Syndrome Association Venue: Children’s Memorial Institute, 13 Joubert St, Braamfontein. Contact: 011 484 6116 (Tuesday and Thursday, 9am–1pm), or the DSSA home office: 011 615 4180 Unique Offers guidance for families of children with rare chromosome disorders.

Contact Kim: sycol@netactive.co.za or visit rarechromo.co.uk

how to help Beaded White Ribbon Project Make a statement against physical abuse. The ribbons are handmade by unemployed women. The proceeds go to the Motheo Wa Katlego Community Development Project, which cares for vulnerable children.

Cost: R20. Contact: 082 970 6035, info@ bontlebame.com or visit bontlebame.com Ladies’ hat lunch Don your bonnets for a lavish lunch in aid of three new schools being built by the Diepsloot Preschools Project. 22 May. Time: 12pm. Venue: Kyalami Country Club. Cost: R5 000 for a table of 8; R625 per

individual. Contact: 082 557 9915 or visit diepslootpreschoolsproject.weebly.com Make your race count Cycle the 94.7 or run the Comrades for Starfish and help support over 22 000 children. To register contact: sainfo@starfishcharity.org or visit Facebook.com/starfishcharity Ride for Nature campaign Cyclists can make a statement for the planet and ride in WWF colours, in any race, anywhere; from the 94.7 Cycle Challenge or your school’s fun ride. Cost: R600 donation to WWF. For more info and to register: visit wwf.org.za/ act_now/ridefornature Tee off for a cause A golf day in aid of Kids Haven, which takes care of almost 200 children and some of their families.

30 May. Time: 11am. Venue: Parkview Golf Club, Emmarentia Ave. Cost: from R3 000 for a four-ball. Contact: 011 706 7959, fundraising@kidshaven.co.za or visit kidshaven.org.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 3 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

family marketplace

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finishing touch

again, again when you’ve been shown the same star for the umpteenth time. By ANÉL LEWIS

ne of my favourite times of the day is early evening, when Erin calls me to come and look at the stars. I love that she reaches up to try and touch them, only to tell me that they’re “too high, Mommy”. I love it for the first 10 minutes, and then I have to admit that my attention starts to wander. MasterChef is on, the dogs need to be fed and I haven’t spoken to my husband since we bumped into each other in the garage, about three days ago. And then I feel terrible for not savouring this special moment with her.

In a few years’ time, I will be lucky if she shares which movie stars she is “into”, never mind making time to sit and stargaze with me. But parenting is a relentless cycle of being engaged and involved, so it’s only natural that even the special moments can get a bit lost in the daily grind.

I can’t remember the last time I took a bathroom break without it being a spectator sport. Erin is not really a problem, as she uses the time to rearrange the shampoo bottles and is not too interested in what

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Erin, Anél and Conor

I’m doing. But Conor is still literally finding his feet, so he practises moves that would make him a worthy addition to the Cirque du Soleil cast while I am trying to get on with my business. And it’s no fun trying to prise a jittery cruiser, who has suddenly realised that he is marooned far from the safety of something solid to hold onto, from my leg while simultaneously trying to pull up my jeans.

Poor Conor tends to get the short end of the stick when it comes to my

attention. This is partly because he can’t call me outside to look at the stars just yet, but he’s also just used to playing second fiddle to his sister, who makes sure that we all know that she was there first. Sometimes he’s so quiet that I almost forget he’s there. This can have disastrous consequences, as we discovered recently when we found him pulling his gran’s knitting off the needles, stitch for painstakingly pearled stitch. He also loves to unplug the computer’s cables

and will quietly snack on the cat’s pellets if we don’t keep tabs on his movements when we’re in the kitchen.

I know though, that in a few months’ time, when he can stand on his own and navigate the stairs without nose-diving, that I will be called to “come and see” all the new things that he has discovered. I will again need to remind myself to make time to stop and share those special moments with him, regardless of what I want to do or how tired I am. And, if my focus does wane a wee bit, as it is wont to do after a long day, or after my 17th exclamation of surprise at the sight of the night sky, hopefully his sister will be content to spend some quality time stargazing with him too.

Anél Lewis is Child magazine’s features editor. She’s learning diversion tactics for her bathroom breaks, and has bought Erin and Conor glow-in-the-dark stickers, so that they can look at stars even when their parents are otherwise engaged. Follow Anél on Twitter:@ChildMagParent

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PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

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Cherish special moments with your children, but don’t feel guilty if your enthusiasm wanes