P R E T O R I A ’ s
b e s t
g u i d e
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February March 2018
instagram-worthy
lunchboxes healthiness your children will love (and eat!)
raise
confident children
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all they need is you
beautiful books for growing minds
school’s back a fresh look at life and new beginnings
free health
education
entertainment
contents
february/march 2018 - school’s back
magaz ne
upfront
regulars
publisher
6 over to you Our readers have their say and share their news and views
10 pregnancy Deciding on your baby’s name can be tricky, we provide some insight on how to avoid burdening your child with an ill-chosen name
editorial
4 pub’s note New beginnings and a new look for your favourite magazine
8 health Eight reasons to keep your child home from school
features
14 delayed speech Our advice on how to recognise when it indicates a developmental delay and when and who to consult for professional advice 22 thoughtful parents, confident children Nick Dall investigates the RIE approach to parenting, a largely common-sense method to help children develop a positive sense of their place in the world
18 recipes Tips and a list of yummy, healthy options to pack in lunchboxes 30 a good read Popular reads for all – our selection of books for every age 32 what’s on in February and March Family events and school open days
24 open day 101 Planning for your child’s future education means asking the right questions to get the information you need to make the best choice
34 finishing touch Love takes on an entirely new meaning when expressed by a child
26 romantic outings We’ve compiled a list of some of the best and most charming ways to celebrate the month of love and connect with your partner 28 one-on-one Popular children’s book author Julia Donaldson discusses the inspiration behind her latest book and stresses the importance of reading for children
12 best for baby Know your spots – how to identify and treat nappy and other rashes
34 in the next issue of child magazine The good life – celebrating health and happiness and Easter holiday fun
Lisa Mc Namara lisa@childmag.co.za
Editor editor@childmag.co.za Resource Editor Tamlyn Vincent pretoria@childmag.co.za Freelance Copy Editor Brenda Bryden Online Content Manager online@childmag.co.za
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Pretoria’s Child magazine is published alternate monthly by Hunter House Publishing, PO Box 12002, Mill Street, 8010. Office address: Unit 7, Canterbury Studios, 35 Wesley Street, Gardens, Cape Town. Tel: 0861 867 885, email: info@childmag.co.za. Annual subscriptions (for six issues) cost R150, including VAT and postage inside SA. Printed by CTP. Copyright subsists in all work published in Pretoria’s Child magazine. We welcome submissions but retain the unrestricted right to change any received copy. We are under no obligation to return unsolicited copy. The magazine, or part thereof, may not be reproduced or adapted without the prior written permission of the publisher. We take care to ensure our articles are accurate and balanced but cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that may arise from reading them.
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Joburg’s Child magazine 55 350 Cape Town’s Child magazine 47 817 Durban’s Child magazine 40 026 Pretoria’s Child magazine 40 173 Free requested Jul 17 – Dec 17
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Every year is a new beginning … And, as you can see, we are taking this new year, new beginnings thing seriously. We are delighted to introduce our rejuvenated, fresh look. It’s all you know and treasure about Child Mag, just glamorously petite! We hope you love it as much as we have loved creating the layouts and packing the pages with features designed to support, inform, motivate and connect you to an extensive family-friendly community. With the focus in this issue firmly on ‘School’s Back’, we have rounded up all you need to know to settle your brood back into an orderly routine. In my case, it’s more like organised chaos, so I was particularly inspired by our Instagram-worthy spread of lunchbox creations (page 18). I relish the idea of glancing at a picture (instead of a 1 000 word recipe) and being able to recreate the magic. In this feature we help you plan, shop, stock and pack healthy lunchboxes your children will love, and eat! On the topic of love, our team has suggestions for novel ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day (page 26). Taking time out with your partner is important, it gives you the opportunity to chat about your goals and dreams, but most of all, to have some fun! And remember Elinor Glyn’s famous quote: “Romance is the glamour which turns the dust of everyday life into a golden haze.” May Child Mag be your sprinkling of fairy dust this year; let us make parenting a little easier, and a lot more fun. And, we hope that 2018 will be a wonderfully happy and healthy year for you and your family!
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
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PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: Brooke Fasani
Welcome back!
Pub’s note
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letters
over to you Have your say – we value your thoughts, suggestions and feedback. editor@childmag.co.za back to school basics It’s that time of year again, when parents start the school run. Remember, it’s illegal to travel in a car with a child under the age of three who is not in an approved car seat, yet over 90% of children on South African roads still travel without being strapped in, and five children die on our roads every day. Car passenger deaths are the fourth leading cause of death in children in South Africa, and the leading cause of accidental death in children aged 5–15. This can be prevented as car seats apparently reduce the risk of death by 71% for babies, and 54% for older children. I appeal to all parents to start the year with the following in mind: Babies should be in rear-facing car seats until they are at least one year old. In fact, the safest option is to keep them rear facing for as long as possible. Toddlers should be in a convertible child seat (rear-facing) until they outgrow the weight and height recommendations of the seat. They should remain rear facing until three or four years old. Children should then be in booster seats until they are over 1.5 metres tall and between the ages of 10 and 12. Once children are over 1.5 metres tall, they should still only travel in the back seat and the three-point safety belt should be positioned low on the pelvis and across the upper chest between the neck and shoulder (not over the neck). You may think it won’t happen to you, but you have no control over other drivers on the
roads that are driving recklessly, have been drinking, or are distracted by their cellphones. Following these safety tips will ensure that you’ve done your utmost to protect your family, so you can get out on the roads, enjoy your holiday, and make special memories together. Mandy Lee Miller from #CarseatFullstop
what do modern learning environments look like? Open, multi-purpose spaces accommodate the many different types of learning happening in our schools today. Schools in the 21st century need to be immersive playgroundlike environments for imaginative minds, stimulating learning through clever designs inside and out. Times are changing and students and teachers need to find their own preferred places, indoors or outside, in which to learn. This not only results in the flexible use of teaching facilities and their capacity, but also allows for greater self-help and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning. Oreneile Mabusela, senior architect for Sifiso Learning Group
it takes a village Thank you for the article ‘It takes a village’ (childmag.co.za/content/it-takes-village), I can definitely relate. I am a teen and I stay home from school because every day there is always one person who wants to start stuff, or the whole class picks on me. So, I stay home to get a break from it. Anonymous
on coding for the future I believe the next generation will sufficiently ‘work’ and provide well via the internet! Anonymous
seeing is learning Most of what a child learns is through their eyes and when their vision is impaired, their ability to learn through what they see is also impaired. Ruahan Naude, CEO at Dynamic Vision.
80% As much as
children should have their eye exam
by the time they are six months old. This should be followed up with another check by the age of three and again just before they start primary school
60%
±
90%
±
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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.
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
of learning disabilities are associated with vision problems1
of sports-related eye injuries are preventable with proper eye protection1
on the sports field
children who are unable to see properly are at a disadvantage. Not only is their ability to perform affected, but they are also more prone to accidents 1
Let us know what’s on your mind. Send your letters or comments to
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of what the average child learns is through their eyes
Hoya. Made for the demands of Childhood. PNX Kids.
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health
should I stay or should I go? When should you keep your child at home, and when must you insist they go to school? TAMLYN VINCENT
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eight reasons to keep your child at home 1. If your child has a fever or a high temperature, is vomiting or has diarrhoea, keep them at home. Parents and teachers agree that children who are visibly infected with a cold or flu, or who have a bad cough, should also stay in bed. Children with any severe illness won’t be able to concentrate at school, and temperatures, coughs and other such illnesses could be passed on to others. 2. Your child should not be at school if they have signs of a strep throat, which is contagious. How can you tell if it’s strep? Look out for little red spots on the back part or the roof of the mouth; red and swollen tonsils; swollen lymph nodes; headache, sometimes with pain in the gut or vomiting; and/or bad earache. 3. If your child has pink eye, keep them at home as they are highly contagious. Children should be able to return to school once they have used drops for 24 hours or, in the case of conjunctivitis, once any pus or tearing has cleared up. But, check with a doctor or optometrist first. 4. Any signs of an infectious illness or rash, such as chickenpox, slapped cheek, measles, mumps and hepatitis A, necessitate staying
Any signs of an infectious illness or rash ... necessitate staying in bed.
5.
6.
7.
8.
in bed. These illnesses could come with high temperatures and other side-effects. Aside from this, not all children are immunised against these diseases and sending your child to school could contribute to the spread of the illness. A medical or hospital appointment that isn’t related to illness or an emergency can be cause to stay home, if it can’t be scheduled outside of school hours. Lice or nits “play hopscotch”, so infected children should stay at home. And make sure you get all the eggs and nits out before sending them back to school. If your child is being bullied, you may want to keep them home for a day until you can resolve the issue at school. But work on resolving the issue as quickly as possible, so that they doesn’t miss school for any longer than they have to. You can keep your child home if there has been a death in the family, or of someone close to them.
five reasons not to miss school 1. Don’t keep your child home if they haven’t prepared for an exam or project. If there is a significant reason for unfinished work (maybe illness or a late-night school function), encourage your child to speak to their teacher to find a solution. 2. If your child says they are sick, but has no visible symptoms and you suspect they may be trying to take an off-day, send them to school. Teachers agree that children can manipulate their parents to stay at home. 3. Children shouldn’t need to stay home for a “rest day” during the school week. Rather encourage good time management, especially for exams and projects. If your child has a busy extramural calendar, or a lot of sports games or ballet rehearsals one week, schedule some downtime on the weekend. Children also need free time, so if their schedule is too busy, look at dropping a few extramurals. 4. Many children see break-up day as a waste of time, and ask to stay at home to start their holidays earlier. Some schools encourage attendance by holding back reports until the last day. Regardless, break-up day is still a school day and children should be encouraged to attend. 5. It is also not advisable to take your child out of school for long periods of time to go on family holidays or trips overseas. If your child does miss school, let their teacher or the school know. Absenteeism can affect your child’s performance and is recorded in school reports. If they are absent for more than several days, ensure that the school is aware of the circumstances. Provide documentation when necessary (such as a doctor’s note or a letter) and make sure your child catches up school work so that they don’t fall behind the rest of the class on their return.
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
PHOTOGRAPH: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
here are often very good reasons to keep your child home from school. Having dandruff is not a legitimate one (there are shampoos that can fix the problem). But, if the cause of their violently itchy scalp is a colony of lice, the verdict is unanimous – keep them home until the little critters have been eradicated. Here are some valid reasons to keep your child at home and some excuses that don’t make the grade for missing school.
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pregnancy
a name is a name is a name …
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orget about breastfeeding and crossing the midline, deciding on your baby’s name is probably one of the most important things you will do for your child. A name sets the tone for so many things in their life: where they will sit in class if the desks are arranged alphabetically; how long it will take for them to write their name at the top of a test sheet; what their playground nicknames will be; and eventually how they are perceived in the workplace. And while it is incredibly tempting to come up with a name that’s adorable for a chubbycheeked toddler, bear in mind that one day your strapping son may not take too kindly to being called “Scandie” (meaning boisterous) on the rugby field. I wanted to name my son Declan, after an Irish lad I had encountered on my travels in Dublin while in my twenties. Needless to say,
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my husband did not share my enthusiasm and we opted instead for Conor – with the Irish spelling – meaning lover of hounds. At the time, I thought we were incredibly clever with our nod to my Irish heritage. But, we soon realised that Conor will probably spend much of his literate life correcting people who insist on using the double “n” favoured by the Scots. So, bear this in mind when going for unusual spellings. Also popular with many parents is the double-barrel name, especially if there’s been disagreement about the preferred name. But while deciding on Jayden-George or LilyMae may seem like the perfect peacekeeper at the time, spare a thought for that hapless child when he or she has to start filling in forms with only a small block available for the name. Or, even worse, when it comes to school uniforms and you have to squash Anastasia-Jessamine onto an iron-on label.
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
Going one step further is the temptation to combine the parents’ names. My name, Anél, is an amalgamation of my parents’ names – Anne and Neville. Needless to say, the supposed beauty of this epithet was completely lost on me and I have been calling myself “Ally” since I was in high school, much to my parents’ chagrin. Besides having to deal with some colourful nicknames, I also just found it irritating to include an accent on the “e” every time I typed my name.
cultural diversity and popular names South Africa’s cultural diversity lends itself toward an array of interesting names, and according to Stats SA, the most popular in 2016 were Junior and Precious, for boys and girls respectively, followed by Blessing and Gift. It’s also common for parents to include a name of a grandparent or family member, either
PHOTOGRAPH: SHAVAN RAHIM | ACKERMANS
Or is it? What’s really in a name? ANÉL LEWIS
as a first or second name. Many Afrikaansspeaking children are given surnames as first names. Who could forget Scott Scott, a popular television presenter from the 80s? The funny thing about the names we lovingly mull over when our children are born is that they will eventually be diluted and mutated into some sort of nickname. I deliberately opted for a short name for my daughter, Erin, in the hope that she would be spared any embarrassing abbreviations or
associations. But, she’s already become “Errie” and I fear she may have to deal with some “Airy Fairy” jokes somewhere along the line. Given our obsession with celebrities, it’s not surprising that many parents are emulating the bizarre baby names being touted in Hollywood. No one even raises an eyebrow at the thought of standing next to Apple, Rumi or Suri in the tuck shop. Movie characters are also wielding their influence, so look out for Khaleesi, Hermione and Jedi in a few years’ time. Remember that a name is for life. It may tickle you pink to name your child “Gin”, as a nostalgic reminder of the night she was conceived, but it won’t be so amusing when she tries to establish her identity as a young adult. By the way, a recent study of LinkedIn found that male CEOs tend to have to-thepoint, one-syllable names, such as Bob, Jack and Tom and, in both male and female leaders, most of the names started with a consonant, not a vowel. No “Airy Fairies” in the boardroom, apparently.
navigating the baby-naming quandary Name generator sites that explain the origin of names: • nameberry.com categorises names according to themes such as celebrity, classic and cool • babynamewizard.com has graphs depicting popular names over time and a tool that suggests similar names to the one you have considered • babynames.com includes meanings and a list of the most popular names
Useful books: • Best Baby Names for 2017, Siobhan Thomas • Baby Names 2018, Eleanor Turner • Baby Names, Samantha Harney
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best for baby
what’s that rash? Nappy rash is a common condition in babies, but it might not be the only outbreak they get. Child magazine
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is candida diaper dermatitis, caused by the thrush fungus. Your baby may also have signs of thrush in their mouth. Symptoms include baby not wanting to feed and white patches inside the mouth and on the tongue.
finding relief Essack recommends leaving baby’s nappy off when possible, allowing the skin to dry. Change nappies frequently, and as soon as possible after a bowel movement, especially when using cloth nappies. Barrier ointments, such as zinc oxide pastes, petroleum jelly and other unmedicated barrier preparations, are the ‘mainstays’ of treatment: apply after every nappy change. Gentle cleansing (not rubbing) with water or non-perfumed cleanser, helps soothe the area. A topical anticandidal cream can be used for a thrush infection. Cortisone
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
treatments should only be used as a shortterm solution.
when it isn’t nappy rash …
seborrhoeic dermatitis (aka cradle cap) This presents as red eruptions with a waxy, yellow scale. It affects the scalp, eyebrows, underarms, behind the ears and the nappy area. While harmless, you can treat by gently brushing the hair with a soft brush after washing and then rinsing again. atopic dermatitis (aka baby eczema) In babies, the rash is concentrated on the scalp, face, behind the knees and elbows and in the nappy area. Moisturise with a fragrance-free emollient and avoid triggers such as chemicals from washing detergents.
PHOTOGRAPH: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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hat telltale red mark on your baby’s bottom usually means nappy rash, one of the most common dermatological conditions in infants and young children. Dr Irshad Essack, a Joburg-based dermatologist, says there are several causes, but the initiating factor is usually a prolonged, increased wetness of the skin. Cape Town general practitioner Dr Costa Kapnias says the extended use of antibiotics, which may cause a secondary thrush infection, could also contribute to nappy rash. Washing powders that are harsh on the skin and some synthetic materials in nappies may exacerbate the problem. In standard irritant nappy dermatitis, the baby will have red, moist and sometimes scaly patches on the genital and bottom areas. The second most common type of nappy rash
baby acne Baby acne presents as small red bumps or pimples. It should clear within a few days or weeks without treatment. heat rash This is caused by exposure to extreme heat and often manifests as small red or pink pimples on the head, neck and shoulders. To help, make sure your baby is cool and the skin is dry. hives Hives are usually a result of allergies and appear as welts that lead to itching, burning or stinging and that move or change shape. This can often be treated with an antihistamine. impetigo Presents as pus-filled round lesions on the face and body. If you suspect your baby has impetigo, see your doctor as a course of antibiotics will be needed to treat it.
When it’s something more serious
Viral skin infections, such as measles, rubella (German measles) and chickenpox, are highly contagious. An itchy rash, or blisters in the case of chickenpox, is accompanied and sometimes preceded by other symptoms, such as a sore throat, headache or high temperature. With scarlet fever, children get a sore throat and a very red, swollen tongue. A fine rash starts on the face and chest before spreading. A serious infection called meningococcemia – a condition where blood starts to clot throughout the body – includes symptoms such as a very high fever, lethargy and a stiff neck, followed by a tiny rash that looks like pin pricks and develops into large purply blotches. Should your child develop any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Hand, foot and mouth disease starts as small red spots in the mouth that develop into painful ulcers. Blisters also form on the
soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Roseola is common in children aged six months to two years and often presents as a high temperature for a few days followed by patchy, small, pink bumps on the back, chest and abdomen. Rest, pain medication or calming topical lotions and lots of TLC are usually all that’s needed to treat viral skin diseases, but bacterial diseases often require a doctor’s visit. Vaccinations are also advised for measles and chickenpox.
further reading:
Stopping the Itch: childmag.co.za/content/ stopping-itch
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dealing with difference
delayed speech what could be causing it?
Children develop at their own pace, but a significant delay in reaching critical, age-defined milestones could be a red flag for a developmental delay.
n
ANÉL LEWIS
o two children are the same. I just need to look at my own two – Erin, aged 7, who can draw quietly for almost an hour at a stretch, and Conor, 6, who needs to jump 10 times on the trampoline before he can settle down to complete a puzzle – to see how they tackle tasks differently. Conor is more advanced socially, but Erin is able to concentrate for a longer period on activities requiring fine motor skills. Although there are physical and developmental milestones that children are expected to reach by a certain age, it’s important to remember that they will do so at their own pace. However, if you are concerned that a developmental delay could be more than just a timing issue, it’s best to seek professional guidance from an expert such as a speech or occupational therapist.
the early years – up to the age of 6 Child magazine receives numerous letters from parents who are concerned about their children’s development. A common issue is poor concentration. One parent explained that her two-year-old son, while on track with his physical development, struggled to do simple tasks requiring concentration. He also battled to look at her while she was talking. Jade Shield, a Cape Town-based occupational therapist, says that children under the age of three do display varied periods of attention and concentration. “Even at three years of age, a child’s attention span remains short with roughly 10 minutes seen as the norm for individual tasks and activities.” However, if a child has six or more symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity that affects a child’s daily functioning, a child should be assessed for possible attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). “Speech is a critical milestone in a child’s development, and between the ages of two and three, a child should be comfortable using sentences of up to five words,” says Shield. One reader told Child magazine: “My son turned three in March, and he has not started speaking. He babbles a lot, but that is just it. We have taken him for all the necessary tests and everything came back clear. He is an active, energetic little boy; it is just his speech, and because of that there is not much interaction. His paediatrician has recommended occupational and speech therapy.” Another explained that her child is almost six years old, and still unable to talk. “I need help. He can’t talk yet, he repeats everything when you speak to him, but he can’t give answers. He can say a few words, but cannot put a sentence together.” 14
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
Gauteng speech therapist Laura Cramb says children from about the age of three should be able to talk about what has happened during the day. “They are also able to start using more complex concepts in their speech, such as pronouns. Since a lot of speech and language development has occurred by now, a child who hasn’t reached these milestones needs help. By the time they turn five, children should have a vocabulary of about 2 500 words,” she adds. Another reader consulted four speech therapists before her son was diagnosed at the age of two-and-a-half with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). “I can’t begin to explain how hard it was for us to find a good speech therapist that could help our son. When we first started speech therapy, he could not speak more than 20 words, and after only six months, he was saying more than 50 words and learning more every day. He is now making sentences and his concentration has developed so much,” she relates. CAS is a neurological disorder affecting speech and motor abilities. Apraxia Awareness South Africa (AASA), a group set up by parents of children affected by the disorder, says the overall warning signs of possible apraxia include any loss of speech, or babbling at any age, and the inability to use gestures or understand what is being said. “It is a myth that you should just ‘wait and see’ if your child is a ‘late talker.’ (This) approach can be appropriate in some circumstances, which a speech therapist may even recommend upon seeing your child, however, I strongly encourage you to have your child screened or assessed by a neuropaediatrician if you have any concerns with their development at any age,” says Deidre Warner, one of AASA’s founding members.
laying the foundation – from 6 to 12 years During the Foundation Phase, children are exposed to phonics and numeracy as they work on the basics needed for reading, writing and mathematics. While the journey is relatively easy for some, there are children who will struggle with letters and reading. As one parent told Child magazine: “My son is six years old and he is in grade 1. He can’t read and writing is sometimes a problem. Is this normal?” Another parent said: “My son is seven years old and he is repeating grade 1 this year. He doesn’t participate in class, he can’t complete his tasks in class, and when his teacher is talking to him, he doesn’t respond. He can’t read, but he can write. While at home he seems like he is doing well, at school he is not. What should I do or do I have to visit an occupational therapist?” Shield explains that the window period for reading readiness ranges from three to nine years of age, although most children will find their groove between the ages of five and seven. “Many factors play a part in the development of reading, including general brain development as a child grows, the relationship he or she builds between symbols and sounds, and the cultural and familial views on the importance of reading. There is a one-year gender difference in reading readiness – boys develop slower.” An occupational therapist will be called in to help if your child is struggling with the basics of reading and writing. 15
dealing with difference
on the spectrum One reader found out that her daughter, aged 13, has Asperger’s syndrome. She explains: “As we are new to this, with no information, we are rather devastated as to what the future holds for us and our daughter. We don’t know which schools are best suited for her needs, or whether she will still have a normal career and future.” Autism Western Cape says that the umbrella term for autism spectrum disorder describes a group of complex brain developmental disorders. According to Autism South Africa, signs of possible autism include having little awareness of others, self-harming behaviour and delayed development of speech and language. A child psychologist or paediatric neurologist can usually diagnose autism by the time your child is three years old.
know who to call:
what does a paediatrician do? Dr Hanneke Heyns, a Bloemfontein-based paediatrician, says paediatricians are usually the “very first stop” in all child-related issues regarding growth and development, medical advice, child illnesses, learning difficulties, and for medical check-ups for children. As such, a paediatrician is likely to be the person who will refer you to other specialists, such as a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist, if there are any developmental concerns.
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
what does an occupational therapist (OT) do? An occupational therapist specialises in child development, treating sensory processing disorders, developmental delays and learning difficulties. what does a speech therapist do? A speech therapist helps children with communication problems, ranging from early intervention for infants who battle to feed, suck or swallow to assisting older children displaying difficulties with articulation and phonological processes. Treatment includes therapy for children with physical and cognitive disabilities, as well as those with neurological problems such as apraxia. what does a child psychologist do? A child psychologist deals with “all manner of children’s and adolescent’s difficulties,” explains Cristine Scolari, a Gautengbased clinical psychologist. A child psychologist is also involved in assessments such as school readiness, developmental and educational evaluations. Clinical psychologists may refer children to other specialists, or offer treatment through therapy sessions. what does an educational psychologist do? ChildPsych, a group of educational psychologists in all major
areas around the country, defines its work as helping children with various problems such as emotional or social issues and learning difficulties through different types of therapy. One technique is play therapy, helpful for children from the age of three to 12, with the child doing what he enjoys at his own level and pace.
common conditions:
autism Autism spectrum disorder is the general term for a group of complex brain development disorders, explains Autism South Africa. Autism affects the way a child communicates, behaves, interacts and learns. The severity of the symptoms – such as repetitive behaviour and poor communication – vary widely. asperger’s syndrome Asperger’s syndrome also falls on the autism spectrum, but those with Asperger’s do not have the language development delays commonly seen with autism. Children with Asperger’s may have above-average intelligence. selective mutism Selective mutism is an avoidance strategy to cope with severe
anxiety in certain social situations. A child is able to speak and has a good understanding of language, but does not speak in certain situations or to specific people. attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental disorders among children, estimated to affect at least one in 20 children in SA. ADHD is marked by symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. As it affects a child’s performance in school, multimodal intervention is usually recommended. sensory processing disorder Sensory processing disorder is a neurological condition that makes it difficult for the brain to organise sensory information such as sound, touch and movement. Children may feel input more or less intensely than others, which makes it harder to interact with their environment and to perform regular tasks. childhood apraxia of speech The brain has trouble planning to move the body parts needed for speech, making it difficult for a child to form sounds, syllables or words.
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recipes
healthiness
(and happiness) in a box
m
ention lunchboxes around parents and you’re likely to hear a few sighs, some despairing groans and maybe some unexpected exclamations. You’re also likely to spark a lively session of tip-swapping as moms and dads share what works for their children and what doesn’t.
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
PHOTOGRAPH LEFT: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
Here’s a list of helpful lunchbox tips to deal with the challenge of packing a healthy lunchbox that appeals to your child. CHILD MAGAZINE
How you pack lunches can be as important as what you pack. • Keeping food separate is a good idea. Try using silicone cupcake moulds to keep berries, grapes or nuts from rolling around the lunchbox. You can also use stackable lunchboxes, or those with builtin compartments. • Use airtight containers so that food stays fresh, especially if it’s made the night before. • If you’re packing finger food, include a plastic or wooden fork, or a toothpick. You can also include a slightly damp cloth or wet wipe in a sandwich bag. • Some foods can spoil quickly, so keep lunches fresh by using a mini cooler bag, or including an ice pack in the lunch. A DIY ice pack idea is to soak a kitchen sponge in water, place in a plastic bag, seal and freeze.
Foods that are too complicated, take too long to eat, spoil quickly, or are too messy just won’t be eaten. • Use cherry tomatoes instead of cutting up big tomatoes. • Avoid using foods that are going to oxidise or go brown, like avocado and lettuce. If you want to include avocado, rub some lemon juice over it. • Keep any seasoning or salad dressing separate. • If you cut up an apple, slice it down each side, and while it is still in its shape, place an elastic band around it. • Score orange skins by tracing a knife around the orange a few times, so that it’s easy to peel. • Using tomato on sandwiches? Place slices between the ham and cheese, or other ingredients, to stop the bread from going soggy.
Keeping up the interest levels in lunch can help to ensure children eat (almost) everything. • Cut sandwiches into fun shapes. • Try using wraps or pita pockets as a substitute for bread. • You don’t need to overwhelm children with too much choice, but packing a few different foods, or packing something different every day or two, can help.
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recipes
happy hummus
fruit strawberries / blueberries / grapes / tomatoes / date balls dairy babybel cheese / kiri cheese / gouda cheese protein droĂŤwors / biltong carbs hummus / cracker bread vegetables carrots / cucumber / mangetout
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summer seeds
wrap it up
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
fruit naartjie / strawberries / blueberries / raspberries / avo / tomato dairy full cream yoghurt mixed with berries protein salmon / tuna / chicken carbs wrap / pita vegetables carrots / broccoli / mangetout
fruit watermelon / apple / pear / mango strips / tomato / olives dairy feta cheese protein biltong / droĂŤwors / seeds / egg carbs seed bread / sweet potato bread vegetables beans / cucumber / mint / parsley / coriander / basil
lunchbox basics
Make yourself a lunch packing station in your fridge. Use a deep tray and some spare containers to store all your lunchbox foods. When it’s time to make lunches, you can pull this out. Everything is on hand, so you don’t forget anything, and you can see if you’re running low on anything in time to stock up. Create an area in your pantry or cupboard for all the basics you will need, from containers to staples. Stock up on seasonal veggies and keep your fruit bowl overflowing with colour and variety. fridge butter, milk, yoghurt and cream cheese hard cheese (free of colourants) and feta eggs, cold meats and sausages mayo, tahini, pesto, hummus and tzatziki salad ingredients and veggies tofu, falafel, dolmades and dinner leftovers freezer berries and bananas (cut in half) bagels, wraps and croissants muffins and ready-made pastry chicken fillets, bacon and mince veggies such as peas, beans and broccoli vegan and vegetarian nuggets and patties
in the cupboard vinegar, mustard, olive oil and soy sauce peanut butter (without sugar) canned lentils, chickpeas and beans tins/packets of tuna, salmon and sardines couscous, quinoa and brown rice crackers and lentil chips olives, gherkins and capers nuts, seeds and trail mix herbimare (a natural low-salt seasoning) bread bin wholewheat bread, seeded rolls, pita bread, bagels, low-carb loaf and english muffins
Visuals and inspiration courtesy of Vanessa Gardner. This Cape Town mother of three, was increasingly frustrated with the daily chore of preparing lunchboxes that were interesting, fun and nutritionally balanced. So she created a lunchbox that could hold a variety of snacks, each in its own separate space, and in the correct portion size. “It is an unassailable fact that nutrition enables learning. Children need a varied and balanced diet, while parents strive for convenience and simplicity...” Vanessa Gardner mycrunchbox.com
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parenting
thoughtful parents, confident children RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) and the Attachment Theory it is based on put a lot of parents off by sounding too ... cerebral. But, this approach has as its main ingredient, a healthy dollop of common sense. NICK DALL
t
herapists and scientists agree that the first two years of a child’s life play a massive role in how the rest of their story is going to play out. During this period before they can speak, children gain an understanding of their place in the world that will last a lifetime.
understanding attachment Attachment is a key aspect of the relationship between a child and caregiver that helps the child feel safe, secure and protected. An interesting experiment devised by Mary Ainsworth in 1969 called ‘The Strange Situation’ gauges the quality of attachment. The experiment puts a child in an unfamiliar room with a parent, a stranger and some toys. Over the course of 20 minutes the parent and the stranger come and go from the room and the child’s reactions to the various situations are documented. Psychologists have identified four different types of attachment. secure: Child explores when the parent is around, misses the parent during separation, greets the parent upon reunion and resumes playing after the reunion. avoidant: Child focuses more on toys and the environment than on a caregiver in new and strange situations. resistant or ambivalent: Child is reluctant to explore and is very worried about where the parent is at all times. Not easily comforted upon reunion. disorganised: Child displays disoriented behaviours in the parent’s presence (for example, huddling on the floor). This is often a precursor for future psychological issues. “Although all children develop some kind of attachment with their primary caregivers, the optimum would be secure attachment,” says Dr Carol Wootton, a child psychologist based in Johannesburg. “If the
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
caregiver reacts in loving ways most of the time, children usually develop an organised and secure attachment with that person,” continues Wootton. “This allows the child to feel more secure when exploring his world, to be more resilient to stress, and better able to balance his emotions. With enough intervention, all children can form secure attachments, but with the stresses of modern life we as parents need to be mindful of developing this relationship.” Children develop a hierarchy of attachments with all their primary caregivers. Usually, mom is number one, but it depends on who the child is with and how that person responds when the child has a need. “In a healthy attachment cycle,” Wootton explains, “baby has a need, baby cries, the needs are met and trust develops. This close relationship should be developed early on, and it’s really important for parents to become attuned to the specific needs of their children.” As the child gets older, these needs will become more cognitive and less physical. Secure attachment is all about making the child feel safe, secure and protected. “You want the child to develop the independence to explore the world, safe in the knowledge that you are there as a strong base if needed.”
parenting made easier RIE uses Attachment Theory as the basis for its approach to parenting. “What sets RIE apart from mainstream parenting,” says Janet Lansbury, a parent educator and author from Los Angeles and one of the standard bearers for the approach, “is that we treat a newborn infant as an honoured guest, and we engage with a whole person from the word go. We invite the child to participate in a relationship with us rather than doing things to them.” If that all sounds a bit highfalutin for you, try this out for size:
“Treat your baby with the same respect you would an adult who is incapacitated. Talk to them. Tell the baby what’s going to happen next, do the diaper change slowly, and try to involve them in some of the process. It may feel strange at first, but soon you’ll see that there is a whole person in there. They’re with you and they’re understanding a little more each day. And so are you.” As children get older, RIE plays itself out differently, but the philosophy remains the same. Whether you’re changing a nappy or helping with homework, caregiving rituals are a time for parent and child to come together, and for the parent to be 100% present. In between these rituals, the child is allowed to explore his environment in what Lansbury calls a “yes space”: an area which has been specially set up to exclude dangers such as plug points or falling hazards. Usually, the caregiver will be nearby, but he or she won’t show the child how to play. “My teenage son was really tired this morning,” laughs Lansbury, “And he was just sitting at the table wolfing down pancakes. He couldn’t talk to me, but I was there for him. Times like this are geared towards intimacy. Even a newborn can tell if you’re not present … looking at your phone or packing the dishwasher …” Outside of these rituals, it’s fine to get on with your own life. “There’s a feeling that we have to give a child everything they want, but what they really need is a caring, confident parent. It’s OK to need a cup of coffee or to explain that you’re too tired to read another story, as long as you do it in a caring way.”
the final word Caroline Sullivan, a Cape Town-based play therapist and infant attachment specialist, sums it up nicely. “You may think you’re building independence by leaving your baby to cry, but all the evidence shows that a child who is securely attached will grow into a stronger and more resilient person. The first year is critical, and it’s all about letting your baby know you are trying to understand him. “Every child, household and family is different,” continues Sullivan. “So there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s all about educating yourself and finding a balance that works for you. If this balance is based on solid theory, so much the better!”
not so fast!
Don’t confuse Attachment Theory with Attachment Parenting. Attachment Parenting was coined by Dr William Sears in the 1990s and although it’s also based on Attachment Theory, its focus and priorities differ greatly from that of RIE.
what is RIE?
The approach has its roots in Budapest in the 1930s when the founder of RIE, Magda Gerber, took her sick daughter to Dr Emmi Pikler, a paediatrician and the director of a local orphanage. Gerber was instantly struck by the way Dr Pikler involved her daughter in the examination, instead of subjecting her to it. As it turned out, both Pikler and Gerber would leave important legacies. Using Pikler’s ideas as a base, Gerber developed her own courses and she further honed these ideas after emigrating to the United States in the 1950s. The RIE Manual for Parents and Professionals was first published in 1978. The Pikler Institute also offers parenting courses all over the world, but it is still headquartered in that same orphanage in Budapest.
to find out more ...
on ‘The Strange Situation’ go to: youtube.com/ watch?v=QTsewNrHUHU
if you still need convincing ...
Renowned neuropsychiatrist Dan Siegel has shown that secure attachment in early childhood actually strengthens the connections in the prefrontal cortex! He says that to foster secure attachment our children need to be: seen: this is not just seeing with the eyes. It means perceiving them deeply and empathically. safe: we avoid actions and responses that frighten or hurt them soothed: we help them deal with difficult emotions and situations secure: we help them develop an internalised sense of wellbeing.
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education
open day
101
School open days can help make a difficult decision easier. When making a choice that will shape your child’s future, asking the right questions is crucial. TAMLYN VINCENT
do your research Given the number and variety of schools available, you’ll want to find one to suit your children. Will you choose a school based on its religious affiliation? What about its sporting or academic programmes? Find out what schools offer first. Natalie Kelly, principal of My World Nursery School, suggests looking at several schools. Research them and speak to friends and parents. Look into the school’s values, fees, extracurricular offerings, available facilities and other key features. Once you’ve made a shortlist, start attending open days or visiting schools to see if they’re a good fit.
time it right You have two choices: attend an open day or visit during school hours. Deidre Proxenos from Joburg’s Dainfern College says the college’s open days are during school hours so parents can see the school in action – “warts and all”. Structured open days allow you to meet the teachers and principal and ask questions, while private visits let you see the school during its normal day-to-day running. You’ll be able to have a one-on-one discussion about what is right for your child, says Pilkington-Williams. This can form the beginning of a parent-school relationship.
when visiting “Take note of your first impressions”, emphasises Greg Brooks, Headmaster at Reddam House Umhlanga. Sarah, a mom of two, pays attention to the grounds and facilities, such as the library and computer room. She looks for friendly and approachable teachers, happy pupils, art, and other signs of a healthy learning environment. Parklands College echoes this sentiment, saying the playgrounds and classrooms should have age-appropriate furniture and equipment. Asking questions is key. According to Susan Keegan, director of The Vine School in Cape Town, you should have a clear idea of what you want to find out in terms of your children’s development and the school’s values. Keegan suggests asking questions about what really happens, rather than about policies: “If the school claims to have a strong antibullying policy, ask how they dealt with a recent incident of bullying and what the outcome was.” 24
magazine | durban Feb/Mar 2018
Questions about school routine are important for Sarah. How long are children expected to sit at one time? How does the school help children adjust to a new school or school year? Are therapists or specialists available if children are struggling? Other considerations include aftercare facilities, the number of staff and the costs. If possible, take your children with you to open days to gauge their reaction to the new environment. As Brooks says: “They have to exist in the school for a significant amount of time.” If you’re looking into an alternative school, such as an Ambleside or Montessori school, find out what sets it apart. Likewise, the phase your child is starting may impact on the questions you ask. “Choosing a school for a small child or baby is anxiety-provoking,” says Kelly, who encourages parents to ask questions about safety, hygiene and the daily menu. For children starting preparatory or high school, find out about exam results and to where children progress. You might not be thinking in terms of university just yet, or even matric exams, but considering your end goal is essential. Find out if the school writes IEB exams, does A-levels, or meets any other international requirements that your child may need in the future. Parents should also consider sport, cultural offerings, social upliftment opportunities, the feel of the school, and conduct of the pupils. Parents can even ask about the financial status of the school and how funds are allocated, says Pilkington-Williams. Choosing a school can be a difficult decision, and one you want to get right. Ask the hard questions: you want to make the right choice and at the same time, help the school understand what is important to you.
who, what, how, when
According to the experts, these are the most important questions to ask: • Is the school registered, especially if it is a preschool? Schools must display their registration certificate. • What is the child-teacher ratio? • What size are the classes? How many classes are there in the grade? • What qualifications and experience do teachers have? • What structured activities are offered? Are these developmentally appropriate? • What subjects, extramurals, clubs or societies are offered? • Are sports and extramurals compulsory? Do I have to pay for these? • How is technology integrated and used to enhance learning? • Is the environment safe and secure? • Do staff members have first-aid training? What is the policy when children get sick? • What is the school’s policy on discipline and bullying? • How does the school communicate with parents?
ILLUSTRATION: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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rom the moment your children are born, maybe even before, you’ll be wondering where to send them to school. From preschool to high school, visiting early is a good idea. “Many schools have long waiting lists or give preference to siblings and old boys’ or girls’ children,” says Parklands College in Cape Town, so applying sooner is better. This keeps your options open, even if it means paying a registration fee. Sue Pilkington-Williams, principal of Crawford Pre-Primary La Lucia, suggests that parents start researching nearby schools as soon as possible: making an informed decision is critical – it’s an investment in your children’s future.
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resources
romantic outings in and around Pretoria
rest and relaxation
order in
Take some time out to visit Mountain Sanctuary Park in Magaliesberg. Whether you’re visiting for the day, or spending the weekend in one of the log cabins, chalets or cosy huts, the tranquil setting provides the perfect opportunity to relax. Visitors to this private nature reserve can enjoy swimming, nature walks, and mountain bike or walking trails. The pool area also boasts a deck overlooking the valley, making it an ideal spot for a romantic sundowner. There’s a restaurant (open on weekends and public holidays) where you can enjoy a variety of tasty treats and meals. Book your visit ahead of time as guest numbers at the park are limited. Visit mountain-sanctuary.co.za
You really need a date night! But you can’t find a babysitter or maybe you just can’t face driving through traffic to get to a restaurant. Date Factory has the solution. This is an online shop specialising in date boxes – a box filled with all you need to have date night at home. Order a once-off date night box, or get a monthly subscription. You can choose a themed box, like the Mafia theme, or speciality boxes, such as the one for new parents. So whether it’s a special occasion, or that rare event when you both have the night off, open up your box and enjoy finding out what your date will entail. Visit datefactory.co.za
into the wild Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge is a rustic and intimate, unfenced bush camp nestling in the magnificent Madikwe Game Reserve in the North West Province. Raised wooden cabins with partly open sides are arranged around a central lapa. While there is no electricity, guests can expect hot water, meals prepared on the fire, tea, coffee and more. The unique wilderness experience is added to by the game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, where you could see the big five, wild dogs, and many more game and bird species. As Mosetlha is an eco lodge, you can also be sure that your visit will have a minimal ecological impact on the surroundings. Children over-6 welcome. The normal rate is R1 995 per person per night sharing, but all Child magazine readers qualify for the discounted rate of R1 750 pppns valid until 31 March 2018. Visit thebushcamp.com and mention Child magazine when you book.
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magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
gorge-ous getaway Two-and-a-half hours away from Joburg, nestled in the gorge of the Steenkampsburg Mountains in Mpumalanga, you’ll find Forest Creek Lodge. Sip champagne while bathing under the stars in the bush bath, or enjoy an outdoor stone shower. Indulge in some pampering at the Forest Spa overlooking the gorge and enjoy a romantic private dinner under the gazebo. Feeling revitalised, take advantage of the fresh air and vast expanse of the gorge with a picnic at a waterfall, trout fishing, horse riding, clay-pigeon shooting, game drives and jet skiing. Visit forestcreek.co.za
PHOTOGRAPHs: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
Charming ways to spend quality time with your partner.
ticket to ride Take a day trip out of the city aboard a steam locomotive. As the train chugs towards Magaliesberg or Cullinan, puffing steam and whistling along the way, you can recline and watch the countryside flicker past. Two rail companies operate in Gauteng: Reefsteamers and Friends of the Rail. Reefsteamers departs from Johannesburg Park Station for Magaliesberg, or from Rhodesfield for Irene, and offers private compartments and coupés, or single seating (seats are in pairs facing each other). Friends of the Rail travels to the quaint diamond-mining town of Cullinan and around Tshwane, departing from Hermanstad Station in Pretoria. Visit reefsteamers.com or friendsoftherail.com
up, up and away Rolling out of bed before the sun has risen might not sound like the ideal date, but it’s made worthwhile when you arrive at the launch site at Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris and hear the bellowing sounds of the multicoloured hot air balloons being inflated. Once you’ve been briefed on what to expect from the hot-air balloon ride, you are escorted into the basket and whisked over the Magaliesberg mountain range, the Waterberg, or Mabula Game Reserve. The unforgettable experience is enhanced by the crisp morning light and the breakfast served at the Clubhouse Pavilion Restaurant after the flight. The ride takes place in the Magalies River Valley and is sure to leave you with cherished memories. Visit balloon.co.za
by the light of the moon The Pretoria Cape Riding Horse Club tailor-makes an outride that sees you riding by the light of the moon, as the city lights from Joburg and Pretoria twinkle in the distance. They set up and provide a scrumptious picnic to suit your palate, beautifully laid out with a blanket and candles at a spot along the route. Booking is essential. Outrides are to the Voortrekker Monument, plus there is a social riding club. Visit Facebook: Pretoria Cape Riding Horse Club
love in the time of war Stroll around Fort Klapperkop, a German fort erected in 1898, and enjoy a panoramic view of the Union Buildings and the Pretoria CBD. The best time to visit is in the springtime when the jacaranda trees are in full bloom and purple blossoms litter the streets. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity as you picnic or braai. You can also visit the old steam locomotive and view the last tram used in Pretoria, a 155mm Creusot gun (Long Tom), and a commemorative war statue. The Fort is open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday, in Johan Rissik Ave. Contact: 012 346 7703
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books
one-on-one with
Julia Donaldson Julia Donaldson explains how a visit to South Africa inspired her latest book, and gives her take on the importance of reading for children. AMY MAC IVER
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cottish writer and playwright, Julia Donaldson, author of the popular and best-selling children’s book The Gruffalo, is also a performer and the 2011– 2013 Children’s Laureate. The idea for her latest book, The Ugly Five, came to her while on safari in the North West Province.
tell us about your trip? I did a book tour in 2016, putting on shows in Cape Town and Johannesburg, as well as visiting the Triggerfish animation studio where the film of my book, Stick Man, was made. One of the highlights of that trip was a visit to a Saturday reading club in the township of Philippi where the children were brilliant at acting all the farmyard animals in A Squash and a Squeeze. And, a touching moment was when two librarians travelled all the way from Zambia to attend one of the shows and presented me with a beautiful beaded ‘Gruffalo’ figure made by a local craftsman. After all the work, my husband Malcolm and I took some time off for a holiday – first walking in the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains, and then going on a five-day safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve.
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what inspired you to write The Ugly Five? The inspiration for The Ugly Five came when I was on a safari. We saw a herd of wildebeest and my husband remarked that they looked quite noble, to which our ranger replied, “Actually, Malcolm, I hate to tell you this, but the wildebeest is one of the ‘Ugly Five’.” I immediately pricked up my ears as he told us the names of the other four ugly animals, and before that drive was over I knew what the story was going to be.
where do you find the inspiration for your children’s books? It’s different for every book. My most famous book, The Gruffalo, is loosely based on a Chinese folktale. And I often find I get ideas when I’m on a walk or when relaxing in the bath.
how did you first get published? In 1993, one of my songs, A Squash and a Squeeze, was made into a book with illustrations by the wonderful Axel Scheffler. Before that, I wrote songs for children’s television. It was great to hold the book in my hand without it vanishing in the air the way the songs did.
magazine | durban Feb/Mar 2018
which is your favourite book? At the moment it’s The Ugly Five, which brings back such great memories of South Africa. [Illustrator] Axel Scheffler’s pictures make me itch to go back there.
your books are always beautifully illustrated – can you tell us more about that? The Ugly Five is illustrated by my most longstanding illustrator, German-born Axel Scheffler, who now lives in London. He has illustrated about 20 of my stories. Axel often doesn’t know what I’m writing about until he sees the finished manuscript, which is sent to him by our editor. Then I bite my nails till I discover whether or not he’s happy to illustrate the story. (Usually he is, thank goodness.) I try not to breathe down his neck when he’s doing the pictures, as it’s important that the illustrator has as much artistic freedom as possible. I am always delighted by the extra witty touches that Axel includes. For instance, in Tiddler, which is set underwater, he has drawn a Gruffalo fish, which isn’t mentioned in the text.
I do work with several other illustrators, and you can find out about those books on my website, www.juliadonaldson.co.uk. Different people are good at drawing different things. Axel generally prefers a fairytale kind of setting (though The Ugly Five is an exception), but other illustrators like doing modern-day life: one of my recent books, The Detective Dog, is full of schoolchildren and street scenes, so the illustrator Sara Ogilvie was a perfect choice for that one.
who are some of your favourite children’s authors? Dick King-Smith (I love his book Dragon Boy) and Arnold Lobel who wrote the witty and wise stories about Frog and Toad. I’m also a big fan of Alan Ahlberg’s picture books and poems.
what are your thoughts on children and technology? Do they spend too much time on iPads and television rather than reading books? I think we should ask this question about adults! In my experience, children love books, and adults are the ones who are forever scrolling on their phones.
do you have advice for others wanting to write children’s books? Endings are very important! Think about the ending before you start writing.
why is it so important for children to read or be read to? Reading stimulates the imagination and
broadens the mind. It helps us to understand ourselves and our surroundings and also to learn about other people and places. Without books, we might all be bigots.
there is a movement in South Africa of schools dropping homework and instead giving children more time to read. What do you think of that? I think it’s a very good idea. It’s okay to have homework in secondary school, but I think that primary school children do enough formal learning during school and should be free in the evenings to read, play, join clubs, practise musical instruments and so on.
about the book
The Ugly Five, the new picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, was released at the end of September. It is published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic.
about the writer
Julia Donaldson has written 204 books, 83 of which can be purchased from all good bookstores and online, while 121 of the books are for use in schools. She has also had 20 plays published, and particularly enjoys writing in rhyming verse.
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books
a good read big books for little people
easy to read stories for early readers The Wild Fluffalump By Mwenye Hadithi (Jacana, R120) A sweet tale about a baby elephant and his mistaken identity teaches children that all animals need love and protection.
The Big Book of Animal Stories (Penguin Random House, R190) A wonderful collection of eight animal stories all with a heartwarming message. Charming characters and beautiful illustrations from a variety of authors and illustrators.
educational fun for the pre- and primary years
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101 Brilliant Things for Kids To Do With Science By Dawn Isaac (Kyle Books, R265) Whether your child is crazy about chemistry or bananas about biology (or, let’s face it, just likes making a mess), this book is chock-a-block full of experiments and projects that will get children really excited about science – and all without going anywhere near a TV, tablet or computer screen.
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018
Billy and the Minpins By Roald Dahl (Penguin Random House, R230) Billy’s mum told him never to go out through the garden gate and explore the forest beyond, but that’s exactly what he does! His adventure begins when he meets the tree-dwelling Minpins and their tiny children, the size of matchsticks. Bear Grylls Adventures – The Blizzard Challenge By Bear Grylls (Jonathan Ball, R91) Olly’s not having fun at camp. His rucksack is trying to kill him and building a shelter gives him splinters. But one night a mysterious compass transports him to a glacier, where Bear Grylls, his guide, is waiting, and there’s a blizzard coming …. Hooray! Thoko By Niki Daly (Jacana, R120) This is the first in the Thoko series. It has four wonderful stories that follow Thoko as she hops and skips her way through life and all its lessons. Thoko is kind and fun and so easy to love, making this a delightful read.
pre- and early teen reads
for us
Choose Kind Journal By R J Palacio (Penguin Random House, R408) This journal prompts writers to reflect on ways they can actively be kind every day to the people in their lives and to themselves. Filled with quotes from the book and questions that are both fun and insightful, this journal is a great activity for parents to do with their children, or for older children to do independently.
iGen By Jean M Twenge (Simon & Schuster UK, R490) A highly readable and entertaining first look at how today’s members of iGen – the children, teens, and young adults born in the mid-1990s and later – are vastly different from their millennial predecessors, and from any other generation. With generational divides wider than ever, parents, educators, and employers have an urgent need to understand today’s rising generation of teens and young adults. iGen is the first generation to spend their entire adolescence in the age of the smartphone. With social media and texting replacing other activities, iGen spends less time with their friends in person, perhaps explaining why they are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression and loneliness.
New Keepers By Jayne Bauling (Tafelberg, R180) In a future age labelled the Prosperity, Jabz rounds up a motley gang of adventure seekers to travel with him to the mountain of his vision. They don’t realise they’re expendable – their only purpose is to fund the journey in Jabz’s old Quantum bus. But none of them has ventured into the Wildlands before. Are the rumours of wild people and savage animals true? And perhaps Jabz isn’t the only one keeping secrets ... Jayne Bauling won silver at the recent Sanlam Awards for Youth Literature for New Keepers, which, according to the judges, “has the feel of a Lauren Beukes novel crossed with Hunger Games.” Hap By Lesley Beake (Tafelberg, R160) Lucy, a 16-year-old girl from New York, is recovering from a recent, traumatic experience. She joins her father at the fictional Barclay Bay, on South Africa’s west coast, where she slowly makes sense of her ordeal. Hap won gold at the 2017 Sanlam Awards for Youth Literature. The judges hailed it as "a well-structured and beautifully written coming-ofage story”.
Feasts By Sabrina Ghayour (Octopus, R350) Sabrina Ghayour presents a delicious array of Middle Eastern dishes from breakfasts to banquets, simple to the sumptuous. Enjoy menus and dozens of recipes for celebrations and special occasions with family and friends, such as summer feasts, quick-fix feasts and brunch. Recipes include: whipped ricotta toasts; savoury pork and fennel baklava; tamarind sticky ribs; grilled corn in harissa mayo; roasted cod loins with wild thyme; spiced rhubarb cake with cinnamon cream; white chocolate, cardamom and macadamia squares. Wonderful inspiration for a tasty new year of cooking.
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calendar
what’s on in february/march For more events go to childmag.co.za/whats-on or submit an event for our April/May issue before 2 March to pretoria@childmag.co.za
1 February
with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. PG recommended for younger audience members. On until 12 March at the Teatro Montecasino in Joburg; show times vary. Tickets are R200– R500. Book at computicket.com
World Read Aloud Day Nal’ibali’s World Read Aloud Day celebration is a drive aimed at raising awareness of the importance of reading aloud in children’s literacy development and school success. Each year Nal’ibali commissions a brand-new story for the day and translates it into all 11 official languages; asking caregivers, communities, and fellow NGOs to join them in reading it aloud to children in their home languages. To find out more, visit nalibali.org 9 February
Youth Outreach Final Dress Rehearsals The final dress rehearsal for opera and orchestra productions is open for students, scholars and children. It costs R50 per child and R100 per adult or guardian. Participants can experience classical music such as Dvorak’s Symphony no 9 and Cello Concerto. Dates are 9 February at 2pm, and 2 and 23 March at 7pm, at the Brooklyn Theatre. Contact: 012 460 6033 or brooklyntheatre.co.za
10 February
17 February
Don’t miss this collaboration between the Montoya Spanish Dance Theatre and Ch2 Guitar Duo. The stage will be set on fire with fancy footwork, gentle use of flamenco fans, and the enticing rhythms of castanets, all combined with the brilliant string work of two fabulous guitarists. The show is at 7pm at the Atterbury Theatre, Lynnwood Road. Tickets are R170–R190. Visit Facebook: Montoya Spanish Dance Academy & Theatre
Participate in a 5km walk inside the National Zoo in Pretoria on 17 February and 17 March, starting at 6:30am. Prices range from R30–R50 and include a medal. There is also a Night Fun Walk on 24 March. For more details, visit fotz.co.za
Zoo fun walk
Spanish Fire
14 February
Valentines Picnic @ Shokran On Valentines Day you can enjoy a romantic and relaxed picnic at Shokran Events venue in Pretoria East from 6pm–10pm. Tickets are R590 per couple, which includes a romantic setting, welcome cocktail, picnic basket and a bottle of wine. For more info and bookings, contact: 082 335 5659 or shokran.co.za
14 February
The Illusionists Direct from Broadway Prepare to be amazed. Witness the impossible. With magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, this mind-blowing spectacular features eight of the most incredible illusionists on earth. The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzles audiences of all ages
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24 February
Youth Outreach Saturday Concerts Every Saturday at 11am, classical music is promoted at the Brooklyn Theatre. From choirs, operas, guitar, piano, and violin recitals, it’s a surprise each time. Performances are on 24 February and 10, 17 and 24 March and tickets are R20. Contact: 012 460 6033 or brooklyntheatre.co.za
St Mary’s DSG grade 0–12 open day 2 March
Chris De Burgh: A Better World Tour Claiming international success spanning three decades, legendary artist Chris De Burgh is touring in support of his new album, A Better World. Catch him at Sun Arena, Time Square, at 8:30pm. Tickets are R460–R800; available from bigconcerts.co.za or computicket.com 21 March
Fijnwyn Bubbles & Food festival This wine and food festival is an annual favourite in Pretoria. This year you can experience the first Fijnwyn Bubbles, held at Shokran Events Venue, where the focus will be on tasting sparkling wine. Fijnwyn has a relaxed atmosphere, offering an ideal way for the whole family to enjoy the public holiday. There is live music, deli food stalls and some of the best bubbly on offer. Tickets are limited and cost R160 for adults, which includes a glass and tastings. From 10am–5pm. Contact: 082 335 5659 or fijnwyn.co.za
24 March
The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra (Britten): Children’s Concert 2018 The Gauteng Philharmonic Orchestra presents a programme that includes Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, The Scorcerer’s Apprentice, Flight of the Bumble Bee and more. Concerts are on 24 March at 7pm (narrated in English), 25 March at 3pm (in Afrikaans), and on 26 and 27 March, 9am and 12pm (Afrikaans and English). Performances take place at Brooklyn Theatre, Menlo Park and tickets are R120–R310. Contact: 012 460 6033 or brooklyntheatre.co.za 29 March
Peppa Pig More fun than a muddy puddle! Entertainment One’s phenomenally successful preschool TV show, Peppa Pig, now moves to the theatre stage in this action-packed rollicking show. Designed to give young fans an unforgettable first live theatre experience, this fully
You are invited to attend this open day. Junior school tours take place from 8am–1pm and teachers will be available to answer any questions you may have. The open day is on 16 March, 8am–2pm at St Mary’s DSG, 186 Duxbury Road, Hatfield. Contact: 012 366 0500, deanne@stmarys.pta.school.za or stmarys.pta.school.za immersive musical production features a dozen familiar and original songs, plus an interactive sing-a-long, and will have fans laughing, cheering and dancing. Shows are at 10am and 12:30pm daily until 2 April, at Emperor’s Palace in Joburg. Tickets are R199–R399. Book at computicket.com
open days
Copperleaf College Visit this school on 10 March, from 9am–12pm. Copperleaf College is based at Copperleaf Golf & Country Estate and caters for grades 0–8. Visit copperleafcollege.co.za
CrawfordSchools Pretoria On 21 and 24 February from 9am to 12pm, you can visit the school in Lukasrand. The school offers tuition at preprimary, preparatory and college level. Contact: 0860 724 665 or crawfordschools.co.za
Southdowns College Prepreparatory Find out more about the grade 0000–0 classes during open day on 17 March from 9am–12pm. The school is located in John Vorster Drive, Centurion. Visit southdownscollege.co.za
Trinity House Heritage Hill Find out more about this school, situated at 1 Heritage Hill Boulevard, Heritage Hill, Centurion, which is opening a high school in 2019. The open day is on 7 March from 9am–3pm. For more info, visit trinityhouse.co.za
Tyger Valley College This independent school of excellence kocated in Valley Drive, Pretoria East offers prepreparatory, preparatory and high school. Find out more on 10 March, 9am–12pm. Visit tygervalleycollege.co.za
let’s party For more help planning your child’s party visit
childmag.co.za/ resources/birthdayparties 33
must love cats
finishing touch
Oh, to be young and in love takes on a whole new meaning. ANÉL LEWIS
w
hile driving home from school recently, I heard my son announce, quite matter-of-factly: “Mila is my girlfriend and when we get married we are having cats.” Until then, I had no idea that Conor, now almost six years old, knew anything about marriage, never mind the fact that he seemed to have already proposed and was quite keen on raising a pet with this girl. I also wasn’t ready for the “birds and the bees” conversation just yet, and definitely had not planned on having it at 3:30pm while doing the school run. One of Conor’s best mates, travelling with us in the back seat, tried to explain the intricacies of the conjugal relationship between husband and wife to Conor. But, fortunately for me, my son was not remotely interested in those details. As far as he was concerned, he
Erin, Craig, Conor, and Anél
and Mila would just need to kiss once and then they could adopt a cat. I felt I need some more clarity about Conor’s views on marriage. But, when I asked why he and his wife would get a pet, he explained with some irritation, “because Mom, that’s what people do when they love each other – they get a pet”. I suppose for children, their first true love other than for their parents is the affection
they have for a pet or special friend. So, it would make sense for two people in love to get a cat or a dog as soon as possible. The next morning, I found Conor hard at work, drawing on a piece of paper decorated with Hot Wheels stickers. It was a Valentine’s Day card, lovingly stuck together with some of the kinesiology tape I use to strap up my running injuries. “For Mila?” I asked. “She’s a lucky girl.” “No, Mama, it’s for you.” Best. Valentine. Ever. And whoever does get to own a pet with Conor one day, hopefully many, many years after he’s grasped the finer details of married life, is also going to be very lucky indeed. Anél is hoping that by buying a hamster, Erin and Conor will forget about asking any questions about the birds and the bees, just yet.
in the next issue of
magaz ne april / may
the good life issue celebrate health and happiness with adventurous food and travel recipes and routes worth splashing out on
mom, invest in yourself, your children and your family’s future
it all starts with big dreams and a little planning
pages of Easter holiday fun
make the most of what’s left of summer in SA
meet (and exceed) your child’s emotional, intellectual and educational needs – we show you how
with a spotlight on
what moms want
on s
is your child gifted?
et tre
22
March
– from love, life and parenting
To advertise call: 0861 867 885 or email: ptasales@childmag.co.za | Booking deadline: 6 March | Material deadline: 8 March 34
magazine | pretoria Feb/Mar 2018