Child Magazine | Pretoria July 2013

P r e t o r i a’ s

b e s t

g u i d e

f o r

pa r e n t s

get up &

do it

bumper

getting children off the couch

“what’s on”

singapore

25

on a 3-day gastronomic adventure

ways to make memories with your child

happy

www.childmag.co.za

July 2013

free

health

holidays education

entertainment

Hunter House P UB L IS H ING

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

Holidays are a great time to scale down on parental intensity.

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

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

In our house, this means escaping the taxing juggling of lift clubs, extramurals, homework and the morning lunchbox rush.

Of course, keeping children busy during the long winter holidays comes with its own challenges, but hopefully we’ll all find the space to create joy and fun as families.

As I write this note, we’re at the height of “protest season”, which seems to spill into our homes as we strive to reach unattainable parenting standards. So I’m really looking forward to taking a few days

off to watch my husband run the Knysna half marathon, to eat oysters with Robyn and hopefully do a bit of my own running with my eldest (beagles in tow) in our quest to get fit for summer. Let our Bumper Holiday issue inspire you and check our jam-packed “what’s on” pages for ways to have fun with your family.

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

P.S This month we turn the spotlight on two issues close to my heart: PND (page 10) and breast cancer (page 15), as we honour the women worldwide who fight these diseases and their partners who support them. “Life comes with many challenges. The ones that should not scare us are the ones we can take on and take control of.” – Angelina Jolie

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

Subscriptions and Circulation PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: BROOKE FASANI

Helen Xavier • subs@childmag.co.za

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

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July 2013

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contents

july 2013

upfront

regulars

3 a note from lisa

8 upfront with paul what’s in a

6 over to you readers respond 7 reader’s blog Anton Ressel says toddlers have their own distinct language

features

name you may ask? Plenty, says Paul Kerton

10 pregnancy news – more than just a mood swing Lynne Gidish looks at treatments for postnatal depression

12 dealing with difference early

15 making a clean breast should you consider a preventive mastectomy? Glynis Horning investigates the odds

18 feasting in Singapore Christina Castle grabs her preteen son for a gastronomical adventure in the Garden City

20 nutrition’s little helper there are so many vitamin supplements on the market, it can create confusion. Tori Hoffmann sheds some light

22 up and at it children can now get fit in numerous creative ways.

By Lucille Kemp

health

detection of cancer signs in children could save lives. By Glynis Horning

14 best for baby – lighten the load Françoise Gallet suggests ways to support your back when carrying or bathing your baby

24 resource – make a memory Child magazine recommends a bucket list of things to do with your children while they’re young

25 what’s on in july 30 finishing touch Anél Lewis warns against instilling gender stereotyping in our children

31 a good read new books for the whole family

classified ads

9 warts and all Tamlyn Vincent gives advise on how to get rid of these unsightly skin deformities

29 let’s party 30 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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July 2013

Joburg

Cape Town

Durban

Pretoria

EARTHCHILD Clothing earthchild.co.za

Mr Price mrprice.com

EARTHCHILD Clothing earthchild.co.za

EARTHCHILD Clothing earthchild.co.za

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July 2013

5

letters

how do I get my copy?

I have had the pleasure of reading Child magazine for the first time. It says on the cover that it is “free”. The magazine is amazing and I will not mind paying for it, but, if it is free, where can I get a monthly copy? If not, where can I buy it and what does it cost?

Adri Grant Childmag says Welcome to our community of readers. Our magazine is free, but if you can’t get hold of a copy, why not subscribe for R165? This means the magazine is sent to your mailbox for a year and you won’t need to hunt for a copy. Send your details to subs@childmag.co.za and we’ll take it from there. Happy reading!

can’t get my child into a school Our government, in particular the Department of Education, has suggested that all parents have their children registered at public schools, for 2014, by the end of May 2013. This is a brilliant idea. However, has this minister considered that there are not enough public schools or places in the schools for all children? I have registered my son at five schools in our area and have had five calls to say that they are full. They also added that I should have sent my child’s siblings to that school. I understand that siblings get first priority, but how do I get my eldest into a school that is already full? I am now desperate as to where to send my son to school next year and being told that “he’s on the waiting list” does not help. I’ve also been told that schools are not allowed to have a waiting list anymore.

over to you

My child needs to go to school next year. I’ve done all the right things to get him there: stood in queues at 4am; given the schools all the information they might require, but I now have to pray that 15 or 20 other parents will take their child out of school so that my child can go to Grade R. When is the government actually going to do something about educating the children in this country?

Roisin Losco

it was a great journey After just over three years delivering Child magazine, I believe it is now time to concentrate on various other pursuits and pastimes. I must say that it has been fun. Although it had its moments in the rainy season, it saved me a whole lot of cash in gym fees and it has given me the opportunity to make friends with numerous dedicated childminders.

I guess when you hear some of the school children calling you “Grandpa” as you struggle through the door with four bundles of magazines in your arms, it makes one think! The reaction and feedback over the years to your very popular magazine has always been highly complimentary and positive. The only negative comment I ever received was on the size of the magazine, people saying it’s just too big, but then I always told the teachers that “lots of good articles need a big magazine.” Thank you again for the opportunity.

Forbes Horncastle

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.

what a weekend!

thank you for giving me hope

We have recently returned from a weekend at Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, which I won through Child magazine. Trying to organise a romantic getaway without the children was an enormous task. We had both forgotten how wonderful it is to be spoilt, cared for and pampered in every way possible. I cannot describe the game drives, our great host Phillip, the animals and adventures we were taken on, the people we met, the adult conversation and the food; oh my word – five star service every minute. Thank you so much for such an incredible experience. We all forget how important quality time is for us parents.

Bonny Cooke

I am a young mother of a two-year-old baby girl who was born with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenital. (This is a rare congenital disorder that is characterized by multiple joint contractures – Ed.) It was not easy accepting that she would not experience her development stages like other children would, but with the help of the internet and access to publications like Child magazine, I’ve found hope again. I have learnt that giving your child your full attention and showing them that you love them regardless of their disability, will encourage them and help them develop self-esteem. Thank you for a magazine that informs us on how to deal with specialneeds children.

Anonymous

meningitis scare Thank you Child magazine for making us aware of meningitis (May 2013). Most people only realise the severity of these diseases when they occur in their own home. Education is important, and even though the number of cases are reduced due to vaccinations, the advances of modern medicine and early diagnosis and treatment, most people are misinformed. Most mothers do take their children for vaccinations, but parents and young adults are not educated, hence we often miss the signs until it is too late. Let’s spread the word and not just give vaccinations and medication.

Matsepo Manyokole

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July 2013

the need for alternative schools I think an alternative to traditional schooling is definitely a must. Having to deal with a child who does not conform to how most children learn is something I do understand. However, my problem with some of the alternative schools I have investigated is that these children are limited from a more inclusive view of the world on a social level. The schools are often too small and offer no valuable physical extramurals, so the child does not have access to team sports, which I believe is a very important life lesson in how to manage conflict, play fair and get exercise. The other downfall

to these schools is that, because they are either small or exclusive, they are very expensive and certainly do not suit many parents’ budgets. There was also a quote about traditional schools being based on memorising information. OBE (outcome based education), which has just been thrown out of the GDE (Gauteng Department of Education), did not focus on memorising work or rote learning at all and this is proving part of the problem in higher learning. As much as we need to understand and experience something to learn it properly, it is naive to discount the value of rote learning in exercising the brain.

Leigh Thomas

it’s chocolate or (vanilla) ice-cream My daughter is the loving offspring of a mixed race marriage. When she was four years old, while bathing her, she looked at me and she said “mommy, you and dad don’t look the same. You are chocolate and he is ice cream, and I’m fabulous”. Even now, at age six, she still doesn’t call a black person “black” and a white person “white” – its chocolate or ice cream.

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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.

Post a comment online at childmag.co.za

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reader’s blog

the bissiks are fint Conversations with a two year old will challenge your linguistic skills and expose you to a whole new world of words, says ANTON RESSEL.

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

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here are a lot of things they don’t tell you about becoming a parent. Sure, you are warned about the obvious stuff, like sleepless nights and the joys of changing nappies, but for some reason there are some rather important things that seldom get mentioned upfront. For example, no one ever told me that upon becoming a father, my linguistic skills would be changed forever. In fact, by the time my third son was born I could speak and understand a whole new language, one for which I have no name but a clear vocabulary and set of linguistic rules, some of which I will share with you here.

Please note that this language is not the same as the obligatory “goo-goo ga-ga” style of discourse so favoured by seldom-seen aunts and other annoying types. This is an actual language with proper words, tone, inflection and a pedigree stretching back to the time when man first learnt to communicate with other men… and toddlers. First comes the adoption of a strange, lilting accent, characterised by a tendency to end each sentence in a higher note.

Secondly, one finds oneself adding –ie or –y to just about every word possible, as in “Do you want some cakey?” This tenet even extends to names. My boys are

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known as Taney, Lairdy and Heathie, and even though my wife swore that she would never sully their carefully chosen names in such a fashion, she cannot help herself either. I hope that as they grow older we will revert back to their proper names, but I’m not overly confident of this.

Look at the Australians; they never grow out of this habit – Warnie, barbie, footie.

Thirdly, you instinctively start to comprehend the meaning of words that those without children would not understand. When my youngest asked me for a “bissik”, I immediately knew that he really wanted a biscuit, which is not such a stretch in itself as the words are quite similar. The weird thing is that I now also call biscuits “bissiks”, and the new word seems to suit the subject matter just as well if not better than the old one.

Then there are the words that all three of my boys have adapted for ease of pronunciation, as they have progressed through the early days of their linguistic journey. These include such timeless gems as “lellow” for yellow and “fint” for finished. The psychology behind this new language, and the willingness of grown people to talk like two year olds, is quite understandable.

Whether right or not, we feel like we are communicating

better and more appropriately with our little ones when we use sentences like, “The bissiks are fint Heathie, rather have some of your bottie and then you can have a doods with bunny and blankie.”

All I can be thankful for is that this toddler language does seem to be something that children grow out of, as attested by my nine year old, who has a voracious appetite for books and a wonderful vocabulary that shows no traces of the language of his earlier years. Except, of course, when he is conversing with his two-year-old brother, in which case he sounds just like Forrest Gump.

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

July 2013

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upfront with paul

naming rights PAUL KERTON says if you are determined to give your child a name that better suits a demented

kay, I admit, it really isn’t my problem anymore; having two daughters with what I consider to be great names – Saskia and Sabina – to match their fabulous personalities.

My friend though, a pending new father, is struggling with names and it is painful watching him grapple with the pressure to find something different, but not too different, distinctive, without being pretentious, authoritative without being naff... Tarquin? No. Dante? No. Eric? No. You have to give a name some real thought since your child is going to go through life bearing the weight of it. This can range from the sublime – John, that is unduly neglected (as it does not pass the put-some-work-into-it test), to the ridiculous, as personified by numerous

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July 2013

Saskia, Paul and Sabina

pop icons, often while under the influence of artificial stimulants. David Bowie gave his son a girl’s name, Zowie (a bastardisation of Zoe), simply to rhyme with Bowie. Luckily Zowie overcame this disability to become a feted, awardwinning film director, now under the more sedate name, Duncan Jones (Bowie’s real surname). I was working with Paula Yates when she called her first baby Fifi-Trixibell.

I told her it sounded like a demented poodle, but she loved it and called her second daughter Peaches Honeyblossom.

Her “love child” with INXS’s lead singer, Michael Hutchence, is a real mouthful: Heavenly Hiraani Tiger Lily.

The hippy era caused all sorts of ghastly aberrations as well-meaning, tepee-dwelling parents sought to connect

with nature and a more tranquil lifestyle.

Parents actually called their children names like Peace and Love. The late actor River Phoenix’s hippy parents also called his siblings, Rain, Summer and Liberty.

The problem is that baby names are often part of trendy fads that fade fast.

Should Prince William and Kate name their daughter Jessica, then half the world will be teeming with Jessicas. Teachers hate it when they have more than two of the same name in class. Can you imagine teaching five Jessicas?

The main advice is to keep it simple and avoid undue complications. On a practical level, think how many forms and official applications your child is going to write in their lifetime. Using the name of every member of Manchester United’s

cup-winning team is not a good idea. It is handy too if people can actually spell the name and pronounce it. I spent half my life listening to my wife, Tziona, first spell and then pronounce her name a thousand times to strangers. It gets tedious.

When I arrived in Africa I thought the traditional naming of children after emotions or personal qualities was quite charming, but it’s a big ask for the child to live up to the name as they grow up. I have met a helluva lot of women called Patience who don’t have an ounce of it. I once went into a restaurant and when I asked the waiter his name, he said, “Pardon.” After about half an hour spent repeating myself, I twigged that Pardon was his Christian name. (Honestly, I couldn’t make that up).

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

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PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

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poodle, you are not doing her any favours.

health

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warts and all

ut a frog in front of a girl, and she’s likely to squeal that it will give her warts if she touches it. But warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and spread by contact with contaminated objects, such as towels, and infected people, rather than a chance encounter with a hapless amphibian. Most people develop immunity to HPV over time. Younger children with a still-developing immune system are therefore more prone to developing warts.

how you get them The spread of this contagious virus is made easier if there is some breach in the barrier of the skin, says Dr Ilshpi Browne, a Cape Town-based dermatologist. This may occur if the skin is injured, or has been in water for too long, perhaps if the child has been swimming. Warts can also be spread around a child’s body if they pick at a wart and then scratch themselves elsewhere. Warts can grow anywhere on the body, including the soles of the feet, or on the lips and inside the mouth. Warts that develop on the bed of the nails are difficult to treat and could affect the nail’s growth.

getting rid of those bumps Fortunately, warts seldom exist for more than 18 months in people with a normal immune system. “Warts are not life-threatening and will run their course anyway,” notes Browne. But treatment is still recommended, as warts can get bigger or spread, says Durban pharmacist Peter

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Although generally harmless, warts are an unpleasant skin condition that can easily be treated. By Tamlyn Vincent

Carruthers. They may also be uncomfortable or even embarrassing for children. Plantar warts, which grow on the bottom of the foot, need to be treated by a doctor. For other warts, there are various treatment options.

One home remedy worth trying is using an occlusion tape, such as duct tape. This should be left on for a week at a time, which will cause the wart to soften and dissolve.

This will cause an inflammation that will activate the immune system to get rid of the wart. Browne says that, although a safe option, it often doesn’t work as people don’t keep the tape on for long enough. Using plant juice, such as aloe, may work if it causes some inflammation. But Browne cautions against using substances on children, especially on fingers that could come into contact with the mouth.

Over-the-counter medications are also available.

Salicylic or lactic acid treatments can be painted onto the wart. It may also help to file the wart down with an emery board. However, it could be several months before you see results. Carruthers says these treatments need to be used with care and noninvasive homeopathic lotions or tablets may be better for children.

A doctor can also surgically cut out or remove a stubborn wart with liquid nitrogen. Although quick, a surgical procedure may be painful and more likely to leave a scar. Brown adds that as the immune system is not involved in getting rid of the wart, the child is not building immunity to the virus and there is a chance of recurrence.

prevention is better than cure • C hildren should not share towels and washcloths.

• Encourage them to wear slip-slops in communal changing rooms and around pools.

• Keep their feet clean and dry, and change socks and shoes daily.

• Boost their immune system with a healthy diet to prevent warts from recurring.

old wives’ tales There’s no guarantee that any of these remedies will work, but there’s also no harm in trying.

• Peel a thin slice of potato skin and rub it onto the wart. Repeat this twice a day.

• Rub garlic onto the wart and then cover the wart. Repeat twice a day.

• Cut off a small piece of banana skin and tape it, inside skin down, onto the wart.

• Rub apple cider vinegar onto the wart using some cotton wool, then cover. Repeat every 12 hours.

• Paint a layer of clear nail varnish over the wart, repeating whenever the nail polish comes off.

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pregnancy news

more than just a mood swing Postnatal depression is a medically recognised disorder that can be treated, says LYNNE GIDISH.

percent of new moms between days three and 10, with bouts of weepiness and feelings of insecurity in being able to cope. But unlike PND, these symptoms are temporary.

PND develops slowly at any stage of your baby’s first year, and may progress into a chronic low-grade depression if it’s not treated. There are many misconceptions about PND, which is why there’s so much guilt and shame involved. There’s also a great deal of stigma attached to the condition as many people think having it implies that you are a bad mother, that you’ll harm your child and that you are weak because you’re unable to cope with something that should be completely natural. But this is not true. PND is a medically recognised mood disorder that affects women indiscriminately. It’s important to understand that motherhood is not easy no matter how capable you may be in every other aspect of your life.

Bonding with your baby may take time. You may have difficulty breast-feeding, and be sleep deprived, which is often used as a form of torture because it causes depression, confusion and even psychosis after 48 hours, and plays havoc with your emotions and hormones. This sets you up for developing PND, especially if you are an “of-course-I-can-cope” A-Type perfectionist. The good news is that there is help out there. It’s important to see a professional for medication and therapy and to ensure you get support at home. Don’t beat yourself up – you are not a failure as a mother; you may just need a little time to adjust.

maybe it’s just the blues?

Mandy Rodrigues, a Joburg-based clinical psychologist, says, “There’s a vast difference between having the baby blues and PND. Baby blues affects between 50 and 70

one in 25

caught off guard Shelley Ball, Joburg-based mother of Bianca, 14, Joshua, four, and Catherine, nine months, never suspected that

the number of dads that suffer from postnatal depression

what to do if you think you have PND Elizabeth Matare, chief executive officer of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag), offers the following advice: • Remember that PND is a very common illness that can be successfully treated and you are not suffering from it because you are weak or hopeless.

• Seek professional help at the first sign of any symptoms.

• Grab as much sleep as you can at every possible opportunity.

• Make sure that you eat regularly and healthily to keep your energy levels up.

• Get some exercise – even a walk outside will do wonders.

• Communicate with your partner; you need his support. Having a young baby will be difficult for him and he’ll be concerned about you too.

• Don’t suffer in silence. There’s no embarrassment or shame when it comes to PND. Talk to other new mothers – you’ll find that many of them also feel the same things you do.

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July 2013

she would develop PND with her second pregnancy.

“Bianca’s pregnancy and birth were problem-free and I coped perfectly well as a new young mother, so the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness that engulfed me when I had Joshua took me completely by surprise.

I was older, had done it before, and should have known it all, especially as a successful juggler of a high-flying career and motherhood, who had handled the stressful emotions of a divorce and was happily remarried.”

But things were different this time. Shelley was bedridden for three months with an “incompetent cervix”, a diagnosis that constantly played on her mind. “I felt completely inadequate, unable to naturally carry my own child, go to work or be a wife or mother. Things got worse after the birth. I was an absolute mess, crying all the time as I battled to cope with the children. I thought that going back to work when my son was four months old would help, but it only made things worse. Since I’ve always been a high achiever I felt like a failure. I was referred to a psychologist who diagnosed PND and prescribed antidepressants. That, together with therapy, allowed me to slowly reclaim my life.”

That was until she fell pregnant with Catherine, and the same thing happened again. “This time I spent four months in bed, but as soon as I started spiralling down I went onto medication, which helped. I now understand that PND can happen to anyone, regardless of how capable you may be.”

Lynne Gidish holds the Pfizer Mental Health Journalism Award for 2012/2013. This is the second year that Pfizer SA has sponsored the award in partnership with Sadag.

watch out for these symptoms • • • • • • • •

Anxiety Weepiness Feelings of guilt and insecurity Irritability Exhaustion Loss of interest in usual activities Loss of confidence and self-esteem Living from feed to feed

where to go to for assistance South African Depression and Anxiety Group Contact the toll-free helpline: 0800 753 379; the sms line: 31393 or visit sadag.org Post Natal Depression Support Association Sms “help” to 082 882 0072 and they will contact you, or visit pndsa.org.za

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ILLUSTRATION: shutterstock.com

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airéd Edwards, of Joburg, started feeling anxious and weepy about six weeks after her son’s birth, but she thought these were normal “new mommy” feelings. The attorney, and mother of David, now two, and Ciara, six months, shares her experience: “My mother had returned home after being with me and I was feeling increasingly isolated and overwhelmed about not being able to do the motherhood thing perfectly when I was doing everything else in my life so well. Control is a big issue for me and I found being at a baby’s mercy very hard. The day that I had a complete meltdown and couldn’t stop crying, quite unlike the usually calm and collected me, my husband took it seriously and contacted my gynae. We’d been told during our antenatal classes that people with A-type, perfectionist personalities like mine are susceptible to postnatal depression (PND).”

Mairéd was referred to a psychiatrist who put her onto medication and she also went for counselling. “Employing a nanny and another visit from my mom made a huge difference as I managed to get a lot more sleep (sleep deprivation played a huge part in my postnatal depression) and gave the medication a chance to start working.

Realising that it was my body’s reaction to a massive drop in hormones, and not a weakness or fault of mine, made me feel a lot better and I stopped beating myself up and feeling ashamed and inadequate.”

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July 2013

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dealing with difference

coping with childhood cancer The prognosis for children with this disease is usually good. So spot

olleen and Mike Eddles were taking a brief break together in the Okavango when they had the call every parent dreads: “Robert’s not well,” their au pair told them from their Durban home. The week before, they had taken their six-year-old son to the GP to check out a small lump in his groin, and been told it was nothing antibiotics would not sort out.

Now it was red and tender, and when the au pair took him back to the doctor, his spleen was enlarged and there was activity in his blood. The doctor advised a biopsy. Colleen and Mike rushed back and, two days later, Robert undergoing treatment on 31 May 2006, heard the words they feared most. “I’m sorry to tell you your son has cancer; acute lymphocytic leukaemia.”

“Why are you crying?” their pale but composed boy asked later, as sisters Megan, nine, Gilly, 14, and other family and friends gathered around. “You have baddies in your blood,” explained his father. “But doctors are going to bring in an army of goodies to fight them.”

That weekend the Eddles began to wrestle with the inevitable questions. Why them?

And would their son be all right? In the eight months of intensive treatment that followed, they found answers “and incredible support” from the Durban paediatric haematologist who supervised Robert’s blood transfusions and chemotherapy injections and drips, from the psychologist who counselled him and them, and from the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (Choc).

Second, the prognosis is amazingly good. The overall cure rate for childhood cancer has improved considerably over the past 25 years, even for aggressive types, Davidson says. And Robert’s type was the most common childhood cancer, one that progresses rapidly but responds well to treatments and has a good chance of curing. Children’s natural resilience is one of the biggest factors countering cancer. They tolerate treatment better than adults and have fewer side effects. Their cancers grow more rapidly than those of adults, so while, for instance, bowel cancer cells in adults double in about 300 days, those in children may double in 30 days or even 30 hours. But this more rapid growth makes these cancers more sensitive to treatment, and even those in stage four – the most advanced – can today often be cured.

there is a bright side

childhood cancers and treatment

What they learnt began lifting the fears that weighed them down. First, they were in no way “to blame”. It has been established that childhood cancers, which affect around one in every 600 children before the age of 15, are different to adult cancers, which are often linked to lifestyle factors such as smoking, environmental factors (pollution, radiation, sunburn), and genetics. Most have no discernible cause. “Some parents struggle with the fact that there is in most cases no easy answer; nothing or no one to blame,” says Prof Alan Davidson, associate professor in the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health at the University of Cape Town and head of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.

Worldwide, the most common childhood cancers are leukaemia (around one in three of all cancers in under 15s), followed by brain tumours (around one in five) and lymphomas and neuroblastomas. Though in South Africa Wilms’ tumours (kidney cancer) are the third most common, Davidson reports.

Childhood cancers now have an overall cure rate of around 70 percent, rising to 80 percent for some leukaemias like Robert’s (which some 50 years ago stood at just five percent), and over 90 percent for localised Wilms’ tumours and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This progress is due largely to the establishment of specialist childhood cancer referral units linked to major academic hospitals, which include support

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July 2013

Of the

2 500 children who develop cancer each year in SA, only

800 get diagnosed and treated

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PHOTOGRAPH: Michael Eddles

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the signs and find the right help fast, says Glynis Horning.

services, from laboratories to social workers and therapists, for a multidisciplinary team approach. It can also be attributed to medical advances. Chief among them, says Davidson, are improvements in the treatment of infections and other side effects, allowing for more intensive treatment; the advent of implantable ports and lines to take blood samples and deliver chemotherapy; and surgical advances like minimally invasive surgery and bench surgery, where organs are removed for surgery and then replaced. Other advances are the use of titanium clips to mark surgical beds for radiation treatment, new forms of radiation therapy to make it safer and more effective, bone marrow transplantation, and new biological agents.

In January 2009, Robert’s haematologist did a marrow biopsy and it came back clear. She kept him on medication and he had further chemotherapy and lumbar punctures every three months. Then in July 2011 this too stopped. Today he goes only for biannual checkups. “Strangely, this has been almost as hard for us as Robert’s treatment,” confides Colleen. “A security blanket – the routine reassurances of the tests and of the doctors and nurses, who have become like family – has been pulled away. Sometimes Robert asks ‘Can I get cancer again?’ And I tell him, ‘we can never say never.’ In the dead of night I still worry. But counselling has helped me deal with this, and with the anger you feel at times.”

diagnosis and support One of Colleen’s biggest comforts has been chatting with mothers of other children with cancer. “Whenever you think you’re having a bad time, there’s always someone at Choc who has had it worse than you, and you realise how much you have to be grateful for.”

While around 700 children diagnosed with cancer in South Africa are reported to the Children’s Tumour Registry each year, it’s believed that this is only a third of the actual number of sufferers. “The rest are either not reported, for example children who undergo surgery

check your child If the following signs persist, they can indicate cancer: • lump in the abdomen, pelvis, head, neck, limbs, testes or glands (armpits, groin); • bulging eyeball, impaired vision, new squint, white spot in the eye; • enlarging head; • easy bruising or bleeding; • unexplained fever, loss of appetite and weight, pallor, fatigue; • vomiting and fits, and unexplained headaches; • aching bones, joints or back; • easy fractures; • a change in balance or gait and • a change in behaviour or achievement of milestones.

Sms the name of your province to 34486 and a Choc representative will contact you.

Or contact Choc: 086 111 2358 (Joburg), 086 110 6441 (Cape Town), 086 111 2182 (Durban), 012 323 3490 (Pretoria) or visit choc.org.za If cancer is diagnosed, consult a paediatric oncologist, preferably attached to a specialist referral centre in a major hospital with a multidisciplinary team.

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without being referred to an oncologist or who die before referral, or are never diagnosed and receive no treatment,” says Davidson.

In addition, many children are diagnosed only in the final stages when treatment has less chance of success. “Some parents first consult traditional healers or try alternative remedies, and even when they do use conventional clinics or hospitals, the cancers may go undetected for varying periods,” he explains. Many also struggle to raise the transport costs to hospital, which prevents them from bringing sick children back for chemotherapy or checkups.

This is where Choc helps, assisting where possible with transport costs and providing parental accommodation for families living far from town. “Our family has so much to be thankful for,” says Colleen, hugging Robert as he runs up for a photograph. Today he’s an engaging, energetic 11-year-old who has now started playing water polo. Confident beyond his years, he also speaks at blood donor rallies. “I want people to know about cancer in children, especially, so they can watch for signs and catch it early,” he says earnestly. “And I want them to be able to get stuff they need, like blood and bone marrow donations. I didn’t need marrow at my stage, but blood donations helped save my life.”

parenting pointers Dr Brenda Talbot is a Durban-based child psychologist with a PhD in the field of childhood cancer. Her son was diagnosed soon after birth with a life-threatening blood disorder and passed away in 2005 at age 21. She and Alta Bence, Choc’s psychosocial support services manager in Joburg, advise: • Answer your child’s questions honestly in age-appropriate terms.

• Never lie; it breaks trust. Even giving blood is not painless, so explain that it hurts a bit but will be over fast if they stay still.

• Illness and hospitals disempower, so empower your child with choices wherever possible – even just to offer their left arm or right when giving blood.

• Encourage your child to play out fears with toys or in drawings – acknowledge and name their emotions, and listen actively.

• Treat your child with cancer the same as others in terms of discipline; don’t overcompensate.

• A young child may wonder if they’ve done something bad that made them sick – reassure them. The same is true for siblings, who may feel they’re to blame for the illness.

• The sick child will receive attention and gifts; set aside one-on-one time and small treats for siblings too.

• Know that a child with cancer has the potential to be as well adjusted as their healthy counterparts. Get counselling to help if necessary.

• Encourage your child to participate as much as possible in ordinary activities – achievement builds self-image and socialisation is vital.

• Some parents become intensely involved with the sick child, but others immerse themselves in activities like work – this reflects different coping styles to protect themselves from the reality of the situation.

• Try to be involved in the illness as a couple so it doesn’t come between you.

• If you have difficulty resolving differences, get professional help.

July 2013

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best for baby

lighten the load

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f you’ve balanced your baby on your hip, with your cellphone tucked under your ear, and then bent down to pick up a heavy nappy bag, you may well have strained, or even injured, your musculoskeletal system.

a pain in the back New mothers find that the first three months of a newborn’s life are particularly physically demanding. The combination of breast-feeding or bottle-feeding, lifting and carrying a baby, sleep deprivation and the stress of coping with a new baby makes new moms susceptible to back pain of all types.

Joburg-based chiropractor Dr Michael Marinus explains that, during pregnancy, the body releases hormones that relax the ligaments to allow the pelvis to move for natural birth. Your body also undergoes rapid weight gain. Then post pregnancy, as your ligaments are still loose from the hormone release, your subsequently weakened postural muscles have to work “double time”, says Marinus. The functionality of the core stabilising muscles will be compromised further if you have a Caesarean.

And what exacerbates matters, asserts Joburg chiropractor Dr Monica Fiandeiro, is that new mothers are often not taught correct postural breast-feeding techniques, carrying methods and lifting positions. “While mom is so busy caring for her little one, she will often compromise herself into awkward positions.”

tips for tending your back and your baby Power nap Fatigue affects your physical coping strategies and makes it difficult for your body to heal. Avoid the temptation of doing housework while your baby is sleeping and get some rest too. Even 10 minutes can be beneficial.

Bath time Place the baby bath on the kitchen sink where it does not require heavy lifting to fill and empty. Your working surface needs to be at elbow height. For older babies, place a pillow under your knees, a folded towel under your ribs and let the bath brace you underneath your arms.

Picking your baby up from a cot, a playpen or the floor Face your baby and then squat by bending your knees, keeping your back straight and sticking your bottom out to maintain the lumbar curve. With your body in this position, bring your baby close. Use both arms to lift your baby.

Carrying your baby Change sides regularly.

Using a pram Adjust the handles so that your elbows are comfortably bent and your back is straight. Buy wisely; opt for a lighter weight stroller.

Putting your baby in a car seat Avoid bending and twisting by ensuring the seat is easily accessible in your car.

Baby pouches A pouch that positions your baby in front is ideal when they’re still small. As they get older, they can face forwards. Reduce strain by keeping your baby close to your body and positioned in the midline.

Gentle exercise This helps your body regain its muscle tone and strength. Note that mothers who have had a C-section need to wait at least six weeks and get their doctor’s approval first.

Carrying a baby can be a back-breaking

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activity. Françoise Gallet suggests ways to spare you the strain.

Breast- and bottle-feeding Sit in an upright chair and slide a small pillow in above your buttocks to keep the lumbar spine concave. Prop your baby up on your lap with pillows to avoid slumping forward or lifting your baby with your arms.

Lift your head frequently to break the flexed position of your neck when looking down. If possible, you can try breastfeeding while lying in bed on your side. Avoid crossing your legs while sitting and keep both feet on the ground.

Changing nappies Make sure your hands touch the surface with a slight flexion at your elbows.

who to see Chiropractors assess, diagnose and provide treatments for drug-free pain relief. Physiotherapists treat musculoskeletal dysfunction during or after pregnancy. If you want the problem looked at holistically, an osteopath who specialises in the biomechanics of the body will also offer long-term care, such as advice on how to sit correctly.

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spotlight

making a clean breast Angelina Jolie has made headlines with her decision to have a preventive double mastectomy. Yet this is a decision ordinary South African women have been

PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

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making for some time, reports GLYNIS HORNING. Should you consider it?

t 37, Angelina Jolie is at the peak of a profession obsessed with appearance and, with partner Brad Pitt, is part of one of the world’s most attractive brands – Brangelina. But when she learnt she carried the cancer gene that caused her mother’s death at age 56, having a risk-reduction double mastectomy seemed the sensible choice. As she wrote in the New York Times in May, “My doctors estimated I had an 87 percent risk of breast cancer and a 50 percent risk of ovarian cancer.

Once I knew that this was my reality, I decided to be proactive and minimise the risk as much as I could.”

Spelled out this way, what woman would not do the same, if she could afford it? Especially a woman like Jolie with young children: Maddox, 11, Pax, nine, and Zahara, eight (who Angelina adopted), as well as Shiloh, six, and twins Knox and Vivienne, four (who she had with Brad).

“They know that I love them and will do anything to be with them as long as I can,” she noted movingly.

If Jolie could make this call, and declare herself delighted by both the reduction in her risk of developing breast cancer (now five percent) and the aesthetic results of breast reconstruction (“small scars and that’s it”), should more of us consider gene testing, and taking this route? “A risk-reduction double mastectomy is no walk in the park.

It’s major invasive surgery with risk of complications,” says Cape Town breast cancer surgeon Prof Justus Apffelstaedt, president of the Breast Interest Group of Southern Africa and head of the Breast Clinic at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town. “On the other hand, with modern surgical approaches we can preserve the outer contour of the breast as well as the nipple and areola and give these magazine pretoria

women a virtually normal appearance. For women who are at high risk, and who have it done in reputable centres by experienced specialists with proper counselling and appropriate testing and treatment, it can give welcome reassurance and save lives.”

If you test positive for a causative BRCA mutation there’s a 50 percent chance with each pregnancy that you may pass on the faulty gene to your children.

“The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) doesn’t promote risk-reduction mastectomy without ensuring the patient has access to a comprehensive health team in respect of counselling and support after surgery.

This includes consulting her loved ones before taking this decision,” adds Cansa CEO Sue Janse van Rensburg.

“Every person is different and should make an informed decision within their own realities.”

so, should you consider it?

Official South African statistics give the incidence of breast cancer as one in 29 women, but this is inaccurate as cancer often goes undiagnosed and unrecorded, says Apffelstaedt. He and other specialists such as Dr Devan

Moodley, an oncologist at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre in Joburg, estimate it to be one in eight urbanised women, the same as in the UK and Australia. But only women at “genuinely high risk” should contemplate gene testing, they say, and if that’s positive, preventive surgery.

You should consider genetic testing only if you have a family history of breast cancer that’s been “checked and substantiated”, Apffelstaedt says. The US Preventive Services Task Force estimates this to be just two percent of women. “Breast cancer is common, so someone in most families will have had it,” he says. “We worry only if you’ve already had cancer in one breast before the age of 35; if you have two immediate relatives (sister, daughter, mother) who had it before menopause, or one immediate relative with ovarian cancer before age 30; or if you have one immediate male relative (father, brother, son) with breast cancer. This cancer is very rare in men and a strong indication of a gene problem.”

getting tested Genetic testing is done by sending a blood sample or saliva swab for analysis, and is now offered in most major South African centres. It’s done at two levels, says Prof Maritha Kotze of Stellenbosch University and the Gknowmix genetic service. The first test is for “known abnormalities in the South African population”, which costs around R2 000, and “delivers positive results in around 10 to 20 percent of patients depending on their ethnic group”.

If this test proves negative, the cancer risk with a strong family history is so serious that it warrants having full gene sequencing, says Apffelstaedt. This looks for rare BRCA1 July 2013

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spotlight

and BRCA2 abnormalities specifically associated with cancer and costs around R6 000 to R10 000. Results are available in one to three months, says Kotze, which can be a long wait. No testing should be done without extensive pre-and post-test counselling, which includes considering whether you will have a preventive mastectomy, and when.

“It’s a tough decision, but risk-reduction mastectomy is a common and well-supported intervention,” says Apffelstaedt. “It takes care of a problem that can kill. Breast cancers linked to BRCA1 problems, which Jolie had, are generally very aggressive and treatment is not very successful.”

It’s important to understand, however, that while the operation can reduce your risk of breast cancer by up to 95 percent, you still have a five percent chance of developing it, as you can’t remove all breast tissue during surgery, he says. Also, if you carry the cancer gene you will still be at risk of ovarian cancer, depending on your particular family history. Jolie’s risk is estimated at 50 percent and her only defence against it would be the removal of her ovaries.

For women who are at high risk, and who have it done in reputable centres by experienced specialists with proper counselling and appropriate testing and treatment, it can give welcome reassurance and save lives.

It’s a difficult decision, and women take on average two years to make it, says Apffelstaedt. “But if you carry the BRCA mutation, there’s no knowing when the risk may become a reality.” He tells of a 40-something patient from abroad, whose strong family history made her a candidate for genetic testing. This came back positive. “She made up her mind to have preventive surgery and wanted it when she returned to South Africa on holiday in six months. I alerted her that you never know when the gene becomes applicable.

She arrived in my office six months later, saying ‘Let’s do it!’ But when I examined her she had developed advanced cancer that needed a mastectomy and chemotherapy.”

options for ops There are two basic forms of preventive mastectomy: total mastectomy, where the whole breast and nipple are removed, or subcutaneous mastectomy, where the surgeon removes the breast tissue, but keeps the nipple and skin intact. A total mastectomy gives the greatest protection against cancer, but for aesthetic and psychological reasons many women favour the subcutaneous kind, often combined with immediate reconstructive surgery.

The most common option for this is the one Angelina has taken and involves inserting silicone or saline implants. But high-end specialist centres offer tissue-flap reconstruction.

This uses your own fat and tissue removed from your buttocks or back, or from your stomach in a combined “tummy tuck”.

A double mastectomy, with immediate reconstructive surgery using your own tissue, is a major procedure. One patient ruefully told Apffelstaedt that when he advised her that immediately afterwards she would feel as though she’d been hit by a lorry, he lied: “It was like a lorry with a long trailer behind it!” But even this patient felt it was a good investment in her health, he says.

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Like all surgery, double mastectomy and reconstruction carries a risk of complications such as bleeding and infection. And in some women the change in body image and loss of normal breast function, especially the ability to breast-feed, can be distressing.

“This is where the importance of counselling comes in,” he says. “There is inevitably loss of sensitivity in the breasts, but some may come back. And the peace of mind is mostly well worth it.” Studies have found that most women who have had risk-reduction mastectomies are glad they did.

The biggest factor holding women back may be the cost. Genetic testing, riskreduction surgery and breast reconstruction amount to around R150 000. But against that, run-of-the-mill treatment for breast cancer, with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, costs around R400 000 to R600 000. The testing, preventive surgery and reconstruction are done free of charge for poor women in the public sector. Large academic centres such as Tygerberg and Groote Schuur Hospitals in Cape Town, Albert Luthuli in Durban, and Baragwanath and Helen Joseph in Joburg, all run high-risk familial breast cancer clinics.

In the private sector, the procedures are covered by medical aids according to your individual plan. Genetic tests are funded from member’s day-to-day benefits, says Nozuko Basson, media relations consultant for Discovery. “We will fund a risk-reducing mastectomy that’s in line with specific criteria, including the presence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes tied in with a strong family history of breast cancer. All requests are reviewed on a case-bycase basis. Breast construction is also funded.”

“It’s good that medical aids understand that risk-reduction surgery is a very costeffective way to prevent cancer, the treatment of which is very invasive, very expensive and not always successful,” Apffelstaedt says.

choices and children Depending on your specific medical and psychological profile, some doctors may advise close monitoring instead of surgery for carriers of BRCA mutations, says Dr Moodley.

This would include monthly breast self-examination, frequent professional checkups, and periodic mammograms or MRI scans. They may also prescribe medications such as Tamoxifen or Raloxifene in some circumstances. These have been shown to lower the chances of getting breast cancer even in women at high risk, but carry side effects, he says. “Lifestyle changes such as a low-fat, high-fibre diet, limited alcohol and regular exercise also help.”

One of the most worrying aspects of testing positive for a BRCA mutation is that there’s a 50 percent chance with each pregnancy that you may pass on the faulty gene to your children, says Kotze. “But genetic testing is not indicated before the age of 18.”

The risk for cancer doesn’t become important before that, explains Apffelstaedt, “so don’t worry your children about it before then”. A daughter who inherits the gene is at risk of breast and ovarian cancer; a son who inherits it risks a variety of cancers – breast, prostate, colon, pancreatic, blood, and even certain skin cancers. “Speak to your specialist,” he urges. “Be alert to the possibilities and encourage regular checkups.”

for more information Call Cansa toll-free: 0800 226 622 or visit http://cancer.gov/cancertopics/ factsheet/Risk/BRCA.

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July 2013

17

getaway

feasting in

Singapore

When Christina Castle organised a spur-of-the-moment trip via Singapore, she grabbed her near-teenage son to take along for the ride and discovered just how

Bargain-hunting in Chinatown; a great place to test your skills

I am not going to tell you how many of these we really ate

Sizzling up a storm in Satay Street

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here was a time when my now 12 year old thought the world of me. He even used to say he wanted to marry me one day. Recently, however, I have become well and truly ditched and replaced big time by mates and BBM. It’s okay. I have an older son and I know this is temporary-ish. I also know that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.

So when the chance came to gap a few days in Singapore, I knew exactly who I wanted (and needed) as my travel mate. For me, this was a chance to reconnect before he became a positively revolting teenager.

Singapore is not new to us. It has often been a stopover of sorts en route to visiting family in Australia, so many of the tourist spots have already been ticked. This was to be a wandering experience, to follow our noses, meander the streets of Chinatown and Little India and eat ourselves stupid. And because Alex is an adventurous eater, I was almost guaranteed a marriage proposal after this trip.

Chinatown was our hood; and the perfect place to base and pace ourselves. This quaint yet bustling neck of the woods is a cultural blend of local and colonial. Many streets are lined with heritage buildings and old shop fronts that have been cleverly and colourfully restored and now house boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, speciality shops and businesses. But Sago, Pagoda, Smith and Temple Streets are bustling market streets with stalls selling cheap souvenirs, fresh juices and good local food. Chinatown is also home to a number of mosques, ornate Buddhist and Hindu temples, shrines and museums. They are inviting and offer the chance to observe the daily spiritual practice of the locals.

While Chinatown’s market streets offer tourists good local fare, the Maxwell Road Hawker Centre became our favourite eating spot. This is more of a local hang-out, where tables are shared and ceiling fans are permanently on high to offer a brief reprieve from the high wall of humidity. The food is authentic and fresh – Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chilli crab, 1st Born Egg Tarts and lime juice. I was scoring huge points here.

Little India is a sensory journey and is just as its name suggests – a petite, yet vibrant Indian enclave of markets, restaurants, shops and stalls selling incense, spices, fabrics, oils, gold and garlands of jasmine and marigolds. Like Chinatown, Little India boasts its fair share of mosques and temples. The Tekka Centre is a wet, fresh produce and hawker market that is worth a morning visit to experience it in full swing. The Hindu Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is particularly beautiful. Leave your shoes outside and indulge your spirit. By lunchtime, however, we needed to indulge our appetites and feasted on amazing South Indian cuisine with a South African expat friend (they always know the best places to go).

By late afternoon we “rolled” into Raffles. No, not in the Bentley those other guests were arriving in, but by foot; and certainly not with any luggage. This beautiful heritage hotel is a landmark in the centre of town. It is the epitome of luxury and colonial architecture, worth a very slow stroll around the grounds. It is also the home of the Singapore Sling, and the only place to down one. Yes, they even make them for 12 year olds (and a more potent version for 44 year olds).

By dusk we were heading in the direction of Lau Pa Sat or “old market”. Originally Singapore’s first wet market, today Lau Pa Sat is foodie-hawker heaven, housed in a spectacular national monument. There is a vast selection of Asian food to choose from, but we had come specifically to experience the fare of Satay Street. Stall owners sizzle away their satay on a street in the middle of the busy financial district, which is closed each evening and set up with informal tables and chairs. The atmosphere is festive, the food filling and it’s loads of fun. magazine pretoria

PHOTOGRAPHs: christina and alex castle

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delicious a travel companion he is.

A laser show over Marina Bay against the backdrop of spectacular modern architecture was a surreal way to digest all that we had consumed in the day.

On our third and final day in Singapore we decided to slow down on the food intake a little and rather work off the indulgences of the previous days. A sweaty stroll through the Singapore Botanic Gardens in the humidity would at least help us shed some pounds.

We’d visited the gardens on a previous trip, and knew this vast, beautiful, and very peaceful sanctuary was worth returning to. Famous for their orchid garden, Alex discovered two orchids named after famous South Africans – Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. We left without locating the Julius Malema orchid.

We laughed, ate, talked, bantered and snuggled our way around Singapore. I loved watching Alex travel, experiment, explore and grow. But I don’t think he wants to marry me, which I think is a good thing.

other things to do with children • • • • •

ingapore Zoo and Night Safari S Sentosa Island Gardens by the Bay ArtScience Museum Jurong Bird Park

There are over 1 000 species of orchid found at the Singapore Botanic Gardens

getting around We like to think we walked our way around Singapore, and that we walked off everything we ate. However, to be completely honest, we spent a lot of time on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) too. Slick, safe and easy to use, Alex was in charge of transport and had the whole system taped within two days. He plotted our routes, organised connections and even bought the tickets at the machines. I could have dropped him on one side of the city and told him to find his way back to the hotel, and I have complete confidence that he would have done it. Buses are just as easy to get around on. In fact, once, while at a bus stop, we looked a little lost and all the local commuters helped us find the correct bus to the botanic gardens.

where to stay We love a little character and stayed at Naumi Liora Hotel in a quieter area in Chinatown.

It is a beautifully restored heritage building in a vibey little back street, but perfectly safe any hour of the day. Visit naumiliora.com

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A fine pair/pear! Even the leaves look edible

... and 2 000 hybrids as well

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fyi

nutrition’s little helper Should you give your children vitamin supplements or not? Tori HoffmanN gets advice from the experts.

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here’s a reason why there are so many vitamin supplements on the shelves today, for parents and children. It’s not just because popping a pill has become a marketing ploy and a quick fix for a poor diet and a busy lifestyle. It’s because picky eaters, overprocessed food and trying to pack too much into an often stressful day has left the majority of us needing a supplement in one form or another.

According to Michelle B Lewis, a Cape-Town based nutrition and natural health coach, “We all need some sort of assistance when it comes to our diet, largely because of the stresses of environmental pollutants and the fact that a lot of the foods we eat today are processed and over-processed. The western diet also includes artificial additives and we lose a lot of nutrients along the way.” She explains that proper eating and correct food combinations are very important and good nutritional development starts in the womb. We all need a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, wholegrains and the forgotten nutrient, water. Of course, eating healthily isn’t always possible, Michelle admits, especially when

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

what’s lacking and why?

it comes to picky eaters, and this is where vitamin supplements serve a purpose.

do we need a supplement?

Opinion on whether or not you or your child needs to take a vitamin supplement is divided. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that it’s up to you and your family doctor to decide what you need to take and why. Some doctors don’t believe in vitamin supplements and some, like Cape Town-based paediatrician Dr Lara Smith, don’t advocate multivitamins unless there’s a specific medical concern, such as an iron deficiency or the need to supplement a child’s dairy-free diet with calcium. She adds that there is now also a recommendation to give vitamin D supplements to exclusively breast-fed babies. “I don’t dissuade parents from giving supplements if they want to, as I’m not aware of any compelling evidence against giving them to (otherwise) healthy children, but I don’t routinely prescribe vitamins unless indicated. Each case needs to be assessed individually,” she explains. Michelle says that while we don’t have to take supplements, she believes that we do need to help our bodies as much as possible. However, she emphasises that a supplement should never be used to replace a meal.

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what you need and when • Toddlers and children who are picky eaters or going through a phase of unbalanced eating will benefit from a supplement for that period, says Dr Smith. Also, families that consume vegetarian diets that completely exclude dairy products, for example vegans who exclude all animal products and their by-products, would need a supplement too.

• Growing children often need a supplement for general health and development. If your child has been sick or has a low immune system, then a vitamin C and zinc supplement may be helpful. While the sun is the best source of vitamin D, children who don’t get enough sunshine might also benefit from a vitamin D supplement.

“Natural sunlight is the best form of Vitamin D (before 10am and after 3pm),” says Michelle.

• Older children and teenagers are said to need cold-pressed oils such as omega and essential fatty acids.

This is especially true for sporty children and those who are busy with exams. Not only are the omegas believed to help with bone and brain development, they help with peak endurance and concentration too. They’re also thought to assist with hyperactivity. When your daughter starts menstruating, you might consider an iron supplement or evening primrose oil to combat premenstrual tension.

• Parents who find themselves feeling rundown would need a vitamin supplement and taking one should be part of their daily routine. “They help combat stress and a vitamin B complex is very important for women,” says Michelle.

Tip: Parents wanting to give their children vitamin and mineral supplements should make sure that it contains no more than the RDA (recommended dietary allowance) of the vitamins and minerals for the ages of their children.

RDAs are set high enough to more than meet the needs of most individuals in that category.

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ideas

up 1

yoga

Described Yoga classes for children include interactive poses and games designed to hold the child’s attention and stimulate their physical, mental and emotional abilities. They can also be used as a form of therapy for children with different physical and emotional ailments. Children’s classes are usually more focused on the introduction of yoga basics than memorising and perfecting poses and routines.

They learn the basic techniques for relaxation, self-control and proper breathing, which can be taught at a very young age. Unlike most traditional physical activities, yoga teaches creativity rather than competition. Classes for preschool children usually involve imitating, playing, singing and moving. As many yoga postures are named after animals and resemble them, this activity makes use of children’s natural interest in, and affinity for, animals when asking them to make a specific pose.

Benefits Yoga has been shown to be a highly efficient method for treating different ailments in children. This includes reducing headaches, the improvement of concentration and it can even help minimise the risk of obesity. Studies prove that children with autism spectrum disorders or post-traumatic stress disorders can benefit from the breathing exercises and yoga postures. Children get to work on their flexibility, strength and balance with the various postures, while working on their sense of focus and self-awareness. For children with disabilities or chronic health conditions, yoga postures can be adapted to match their physical abilities and needs.

and

at it

encourage enthusiastic participation.

It combines high-energy to classic Zumba rhythms – salsa, cumbia, reggaeton and merengue – with games to provide a safe, effective and fun workout. The classes are supportive, noncompetitive and no costumes or make-up are required. Zumbatomic classes take into consideration a child’s developing motor skills and shorter attention span, so the classes are usually split into two main age groups: for four to seven year olds and for eight to 12 year olds.

Benefits Along with physical fitness, Zumbatomic develops balance self-esteem, coordination, pride, discipline, memory, and creativity, and teaches leadership, respect, teamwork, confidence, responsibility and social skills.

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blokart sailing

Described This fast and somewhat extreme sport uses a blokart, which is a light, compact three-wheeled buggy and sail. Your child sits in a sling seat, with their legs stretched out in front of them and they take hold of the steering bar and sheet rope. The blokart is manoeuvrable and requires few sailing adjustments, which make learning to sail particularly easy. Blokart sailing can be done on the beach or in a park.

Benefits It can be as relaxing or as thrilling as you want it to be and all you need to get going is a long stretch of ground. Blokart sailing is easy to learn and the blokart is simple to assemble and use. It is also a great way to spend quality time outdoors with your thrill-seeker child.

Five alternative activities guaranteed to get children of all ages off the couch. By LUCILLE KEMP

tag rugby

Described This is a fast moving, noncontact team game that allows boys and girls to play together. Each player wears a belt with two Velcro tags attached to it, or shorts with Velcro patches. Attacking players attempt to dodge, evade and pass a rugby ball while defenders work to prevent them from scoring by “tagging” or pulling the tag from the ball carrier, rather than making a full-contact tackle. The teams are usually seven-a-side.

Benefits The most apparent benefit of tag rugby is that, thanks to its noncontact nature, it is regarded as a safe sport for children. Many tag rugby coaches believe young players should focus more on the fun of the game, rather than the competition, and this makes it an enjoyable sport for players of all skill levels. It will also improve the older child’s performance on the field during a “traditional” rugby game as it develops fitness, pace and evasive running.

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zumbatomic

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Described Zumbatomic is a fun dance and fitness programme designed specifically for children with age-appropriate songs, games and dance steps that

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fencing

Described Fencers do battle following fixed movements and strict rules. In a competition, three types of swords are used: the foil, épée and sabre. Fencers compete in intense individual contests and in team events. Matches require speed, focus and on-point technique. Your opponent can make an attack in any number of ways and your defence and counter-attack need to be lightning fast. There are fencing schools that will take students as young as 6 years old.

Benefits This individual sport has physical and cognitive benefits with students describing fencing as a “physical game of chess”. Fencers need to develop strategy and quick reflexes to be good at the sport. They also learn good sportsmanship, self-discipline and how to make complex decisions, analyse problems and think on their feet. Research has revealed that fencing can enhance mathematical performance, and help children learn to pay attention and develop their decision-making abilities. Fencing helps people with attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to focus. magazine pretoria

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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resource

make a memory Here are 25 experiences to share with your child before they turn 18, or let them inspire you to come up with your own list of truly memorable things to do with them. By CHILD MAGAZINE

out and about 11 Go for an extended road trip and take in unfamiliar sights, such as the seaside, a desert or a mountain range if they’ve never seen them before.

12 Show them how to safely light a fire and cook something on it.

13 Go to an art gallery together.

14 Teach your child to pitch a tent.

15 Visit South African landmarks such as Robben Island, God’s Window, Pilgrim’s Rest, Sara Baartman’s grave, the Big Hole in Kimberley, Maropeng, Table Mountain and the Union Buildings.

16 Stargaze. This works best far away from city lights.

17 Go strawberry or apple picking.

18 Build the biggest sandcastle you can.

19 Watch a pantomime.

20 Go to Kruger Park to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.

wish list Be sure to include a few big-ticket, aspirational ideas that you can dream about and work towards with your family. Here are a few suggestions…

close to home 1 Learn to play an instrument together or make it possible for your child to take lessons.

2 Get involved in volunteer work in your community.

3 Plant something and watch it grow. A sprouting bean is an old favourite.

4 Build a kite together and then fly it.

5 Read an age-appropriate classic novel together or a book you loved as a child.

6 Cook or bake something with your child.

7 Make a fort in the lounge.

8 Get them to dance and sing without restraint and video it so they can watch the performance later on in life.

9 Teach them the value of money. Reward them for certain chores, open a bank account with them and teach them budget basics.

10 Show them how to play the schoolyard games of your youth, such as marbles, French skipping and hopscotch.

21 See the seven wonders of the ancient world or visit as many countries as possible.

22 Visit Disneyland when they are old enough to go on the rides.

23 View the world from the lofty heights of a hot-air balloon.

24 Learn a second language.

25 Go tubing or whitewater rafting. suggestions from facebook Jane Reuben: Horse-riding, camping in the wild for at least a week, trekking through the mountains of Colorado, travelling anywhere in South America, and enjoying a boat ride with a whale sighting…

Michele Mistry: Visiting the Etosha plains, ice-skating on a river, seeing the Himalayas at dawn, starting a family band, my list is endless...

Carmen Louise Harper: A helicopter ride – my son loves them Rona Mirimi: A trip to the Far East for six months, especially India

down the rapids Frank Muller says he’s taken his two sons on two separate canoeing trips – one son at a time – along the lower reaches of the Orange River. On both they travelled about 70km over four days. “You sleep in the sand by the riverside, under stars so bright you can read a book by their light. The rapids make it exciting, but you are never in any PHOTOGRAPHS: shutterstock.com

real danger. The guides prepare three great meals every day, so you can focus on canoeing, enjoying the majestic scenery and getting to bond in a special way.”

This activity is recommended for children from the age of seven and it’s best to go Frank and Ludwig

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in late April and early October, when the temperatures are mild and rain is less likely.

magazine pretoria

calendar

what’s on in july

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

27 sat

special events

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FUN for children

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only for parents

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bump, baby & tot in tow

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how to help

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SPECIAL EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Midas Historic Tour A racing event with sport cars, V8 muscle cars and saloon cars from the early 50s to the late 70s.

FUN FOR CHILDREN

ONLY FOR PARENTS

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Adventures with elephants Meet the six charming elephants that are residents of this wildlife reserve.

Rigoletto Verdi’s popular opera, which includes all the best known arias, duets and the famous Quartet.

Pregnancy education workshop Find out about a baby’s development, diet issues and more.

Wheel Well Donate your child safety seats to be redistributed to lower income families at a discounted rate.

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calendar

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Art in the Park An open-air art gallery that is held in the gardens. 6, 7, 27 and 28 July. Time: 10am–4pm. Venue: Greenlyn Village Shopping Centre (6 and 27 July); Pretoria National Botanical Garden (7 July); Magnolia Dell (28 July). Cost: 7 July: adults R25, students R15, children R10, children under 6 years old free; other dates: free entry. Contact: 071 676 3600, gyrobear@ gmail.com or visit sanbi.org 13 July – Afriform Springbok Vasbyt

classes, talks and workshops SPECIAL EVENTS 3 wednesday Chocolate factory fun day Chocolatiers teach children the skill of chocolate moulding, chocolate pizza decorating and writing with chocolate. Booking essential. For children 8–13 years old. Time: 1:30pm–4pm. Venue: Snyman Sjokolateur, Waterkloof Ridge. Cost: R120 per child per event (bring own drinks and salty treats).

Contact Lily: 012 347 8497, 074 140 1087 or visit snymanchocolates.com

4 thursday ASG Night Rider MTB Series A mountain bike race and trail run suitable for children and adults. Space is limited. For children 5 years and older. Time: children’s MTB race 6pm; main race 7pm; trail run 7:15pm.

Venue: Rosemary Hill, N4 East, exit 18, plot 257 Mooiplaats, Boschkop. Cost: adults R120, children R30. Contact Karla: karla@ asgworld.co.za or visit asgevents.co.za

6 saturday Margaret Roberts open day Wander among the sleeping fairies in the Fairy Village, do the labyrinth or tend to the sand garden and refuel with a light lunch at The Country Kitchen. At 12pm, parents can attend the lecture on midwinter recipes for aches, pains, stiffness and circulation. Time: 9am–5pm. Venue: Margaret Roberts Herbal Centre, on the R513 near Zilkaatsnek, Rd 16, Hartbeespoort Dam. Cost: R20 entry per car, R50 per mini bus; lecture R100. Contact: 012 504 2121, 071 161 6441, margaretroberts@lantic.net or visit margaretroberts.co.za

13 saturday Afriform Springbok Vasbyt View the Voortrekker Monument as you make your way within the Wagon Walls to complete the 5km, 10km or 25km adventure challenge. The 10km and 25km races take place on gravel roads and mountain tracks. Baby strollers and wheelchairs are welcome on the 5km race. Time: 7:30am.

Venue: picnic grounds at the Voortrekker Monument, Eeufees Rd, Groenkloof. Cost: 25km R91,20; 10km R57 (temporary license R46); 5km R36. Contact Henning: 071 405 5588 (after hours) or visit entrytime.com ZOC All Bike Day A motorcycle race day with TK Imports Thunderbikes, TK Imports Brunch Run and Red Square Kawasaki ZX10 masters taking to the grid. Time:

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10am–5pm. Venue: Zwartkops Raceway, R55 Pretoria West, Laudium. Cost: adults R60, students R40, children under 12 free.

Contact Elvene: 012 384 2299, events@ zwartkops.co.za or visit zwartkops.co.za

14 sunday Music concert and picnic in the park Live music by the talented Hunter & Adriaan entertain visitors. Pre-packed picnic hampers can be ordered. Time: 9am–3pm.

Venue: Cedar Junction Theme Park, plot 404, Graham Rd, Zwavelpoort. Cost: R20 entry; picnic hampers vary. Contact: 012 811 1183, bookings@cedarjunction.co.za or visit cedarjunction.co.za

20 saturday SPCA Wag A Walk Take a brisk stroll with your family and with (or without) your dog. There is a short walk of 1,4km and a more challenging walk of 5km. Time: 8am–10:30am. Venue: Irene Smuts House Museum, Jan Smuts Ave, off Nellmapius Ave, Irene, Centurion. Cost: R20 per person, R10 per dog. Contact Korky: 012 803 5219, admin@spcapta.org.za or visit spcapta.org.za

24 wednesday International Self-Care Day Give your medicine cabinet a health check. Visit the 24/7 Medicine Cabinet Checklist for a list of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and health care products that you should have.

For more info: visit selfcare247.co.za

27 saturday Midas Historic Tour Historic racing with the Legends of the 9 Hour, ISP, trans-am, historic saloons, pre-1977 Sports and GT cars, and others from the early 50s to the late 70s. Time: 10am–6pm. Venue: Zwartkops Raceway, R55 Pretoria West, Laudium. Cost: adults R70, students R50, children under 12 free. Contact Elvene: 012 384 2299, events@zwartkops.co.za or visit zwartkops.co.za

28 sunday Music in the Gardens Bring a few chairs, a picnic blanket and some nibbles for an open air concert. Today’s headlining act is Mi Casa. Food and drink stalls are available, as well as a dedicated Kids Zone.

Time: 11am–5pm; the concert starts at 1pm. Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria. Cost: R80. Book through Ticket Break: 012 843 5172 or visit ticketbreak.co.za

Living a balanced life Children are taught how to be balanced spiritually, emotionally and physically. Through fun games, activities and discussions, they learn the importance of being happy, an inspiration to others and a good role model. Booking essential. For 6–12 year olds. 20 July. Time: 10am–1pm. Venue: Go with the Flow Family Yoga Studio, 422 Trevor Gething St, Faerie Glen. Cost: R300 per child, R450 per family. Contact: 082 602 7689 or info@gowiththeflow.co.za

family outings Adventures with Elephants Meet Chishuru, the elephant with a talent for identifying people by their smelly shoes, or get a special photo taken of you sitting on Chova’s knee. For children 4 years and older. Time: 8am, 12pm and 3pm, daily.

Venue: Adventures with Elephants, Bela Bela, Limpopo Province. Cost: adults R475, children R275. Contact: 014 734 7730/00, 079 431 7655, adventures@zebula.co.za or visit adventureswithelephants.co.za Social Sundays A social afternoon to bring people of all walks of life together to get to know each other, and add a bit of hope to their lives. Children can play while adults chat. Time: 4pm–6pm, every Sunday. Venue: Ça Ira Wellness Retreat, 791 Government Ave, Eastwood. Cost: free tea and coffee. Contact: 012 342 6085, wellness@caira.co.za or visit caira.co.za Willem Prinsloo Agricultural Museum This museum boasts the largest collection of farming implements in the country and a unique collection of vehicles. Book

Capriole Stables sleepover pony camp Each child is allocated a pony and given the responsibility to care for them for the duration of the camp. They also have riding lessons and outrides, watch videos, play games and enjoy a bonfire. The sleepover camp is suitable for children 10 years and older. 1–5 July. A half-day pony camp for children 4 years and older takes place 21–28 June. Time: from 9am. Venue: Capriole Stables, 46 Everfair Ave, Randjesfontein. Cost: tbc.

Contact Karen: 082 573 4797, equineiq@mweb.co.za or visit capriolestables.com

programmes such as making clay oxen.

Time: 8am–4pm, Monday–Saturday; 9am–4pm, Sunday. Venue: Willem Prinsloo Agricultural Museum, N4 from Pretoria to Witbank, Rayton/Cullinan/Babsfontein offramp. Cost: R10–R60. Contact: 012 736 2035/6, prinsloo@ditsong.org.za or visit ditsong.org.za

finding nature and outdoor play Introductory fly fishing clinic Learn the techniques of fly fishing during a two and a half hour fishing lesson. No prior experience required. For children 7 years and older. Time: 10am–1pm, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Midrand or Magaliesburg.

Cost: adults R300, teenagers R250, children R200. Contact Wayne: 011 315 4503, info@sundowneradventures.co.za or visit sundowneradventures.co.za

holiday programmes Amazing reptiles Learners are introduced to the various species of reptiles through activities. For learners from Grade R–Grade 3.

Held in English: 10 July; in Afrikaans: 12 July.

Time: 8am–4pm. Venue: National Zoological Gardens, 232 Boom St. Cost: R100. Contact: 012 339 2773 or visit nzg.ac.za Children’s yoga and craft holiday school Children attend yoga classes, and do craft and dance activities. Booking essential.

For children 3–12 years old. 8–12 July.

Time: 8:30am–12:30pm. Venue: Go with the Flow Family Yoga Studio, 422 Trevor Gething St, Faerie Glen. Cost: R120 per morning. Contact Caryn: 012 361 6196, 082 602 7689 or info@gowiththeflow.co.za Drakensberg adventure camp Children can enjoy zip lining, abseiling, hiking, canoeing, star gazing and more. For children 7–13 years old. 8–13 July. Time: departs from Joburg at 9am on Monday, returns on Saturday at 3pm. Venue: Drakensberg.

Cost: R3 850 per child; R3 750 per sibling (all inclusive). Contact Erin: 076 575 8003 or Kyle: 076 035 4038, info@intheforest.co.za or visit intheforest.co.za Grove Mall holiday programme A craft and play area has been setup for children 1–10 years old. 8–14 July. Time: 10am–4pm, Monday–Friday; 10am–2pm, Saturday; 10am–1pm, Sunday. Venue: The Grove Mall,

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cnr Lynnwood Ave and Simon Vermooten Rd, Pretoria East. Cost: free. Contact: 012 807 0963 or visit thegrovemall.co.za Holiday art week A course that engages children in different painting methods.

They’ll be painting on rocks, canvases, paper and wood, and learn about silk screen printing. Space is limited. 1–5 July. Time: 9:30am–12pm. Venue: Bead Some More, 402 Mendelsohn St, Waterkloof Glen. Cost: R850; early booking R700. Contact: 012 998 8577 or beadsomemore@gmail.com Kinderland holiday programme Children are kept active and stimulated with a full programme of activities that includes daily craft projects and free play.

For children 3–10 years old. 24 June–12 July.

Time: 7am–5pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: Kinderland Party Venue, 214 Meerlust St, Willow Glen. Cost: R150 per day (includes breakfast, lunch and snacks). Contact Annalize: 082 680 1368, annalizelouw@ hotmail.com or visit kinderlandpv.co.za Little Cooks Club Aspiring little chefs create chocolate brownies, mini beef burgers, shortbread cookies, tiramisu and more. For children 3–16 years old.

26 June–12 July. Time: 10am–12pm, Wednesday–Friday. Venue: Little Cooks Club Pretoria East, Olympus Country Estate, no 6 Olympus Ridge, 36 Ajax Rd, Faerie Glen. Cost: R220 per class (includes all ingredients). Contact Bridget: 082 896 1758, bridgetk@littlecooksclub.co.za or visit littlecooksclub.co.za

magazine pretoria

NZG Junior Nature Conservator Learners become acquainted with the animals in the zoo. They work with conservation staff and farm animals.

Booking essential. For learners from Grade 7–Grade 12. 1–12 July. Time: 8am–4pm, Monday–Friday. Venue: National Zoological Gardens, 232 Boom St. Cost: R250.

Contact: 012 339 2773, karabo@nzg.ac.za or visit nzg.ac.za Virgin Active holiday camp Club-V is packed with fun, creative and energetic activities, classes and Adidas giveaways.

Each child who signs up for the camp receives an Adidas backpack. For children 3–7 years old. 24 June–5 July. Time: all day.

Venue: all Virgin Active Club-Vs. Cost: free for Virgin Active Club-V members. Contact: 0860 200 911 or visit virginactive.co.za

markets Irene village market There are more than 300 hand crafted stalls, a separate deli and antique section, and activities for children. 13 and 27 July. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: Smuts House Museum, Jan Smuts Ave, Irene. Cost: free entry. Contact: 012 667 1659 or visit irenemarket.co.za Mediterranean Market An array of eats, treats and gifts are on sale. 13 and 27 July. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: upper level of The Grove Mall, cnr Lynnwood Rd and Simon Vermooten Rd, Equestria. Cost: free.

Contact Angela: 072 758 7436 or visit thegrovemall.co.za

Plaasmark For homemade items, fresh produce, children’s toys and more.

Demonstrations on various gardening topics take place from 9am. 6 July. Time: 8am–2pm. Venue: Voortrekker Monument, Eeufees Rd, Groenkloof. Cost: R10 per car.

Contact: 012 323 9201, info@plaasmark. org or visit plaasmark.org

on stage and screen Alice’s African Adventure A charming puppet show that takes children on a journey across Africa. 2 and 4 July. Time: 9:30am and 11:30am. Venue: Irene Village Theatre, Pioneer Rd. Cost: R55. Contact: 084 804 0490 or tshwaneyouththeatre@gmail.com Die Geel Koevertjie The characters Oupa, Simon, Nina and Mieka Marmot tell the story of money, while the audience interacts by learning, laughing and singing together.

Children can help Simon with his “big budget” and help him to make the right choices. The production is in Afrikaans.

10–13 July. Time: 11am. Venue: Atterbury Theatre, 4 Daventry St, Lynnwood. Cost: R80. Book through the theatre: 012 471 1700, info@atterburytheatre.co.za or visit atterburytheatre.co.za Revealing the secrets of the mind Mentalist Michael Abrahamson uses mathematics, memory skills, body language, psychology, eye movement and other techniques in an interactive way to keep audience members guessing. 15 July. Time: 8pm. Venue: Atterbury Theatre,

8–12 July – Children’s yoga and craft holiday school

4 Daventry St, cnr Lynnwood Rd and Daventry St, Lynnwood. Cost: R140–R180.

Book through the theatre: 012 471 1700 or visit atterburytheatre.co.za Robin Hood and his Merry Adventures A hilarious new take on the old classic that is suitable for the whole family. You are able to order pizzas from the in-theatre deli or bring your own food and snacks. 29 June and 27 July. Time: 29 June: 11am and 3pm; 27 July: 11am. Venue: Barnyard Theatre Parkview, Parkview Shopping Centre, Moreleta Park. Cost: R60. Contact: 012 368 1555 or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za

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calendar Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The traditional tale of a young girl who flees from her wicked stepmother to the forest and befriends seven dwarfs.

The production is filled with singing and dancing. 24 June–6 July. Time: 10:30am–2:30pm, daily; 7pm, Saturday.

Venue: Irene Village Theatre, 1 Pioneer Rd, Irene. Cost: R65–R95. Contact: 084 804 0490, tshwaneyouththeatre@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/pytheatre Stars of The Ballet Moscow A new programme to celebrate the music of the Russian composers Sergei Rachmaninov and Pyotr Tchaikovsky. 6 and 7 July. Time: 3pm, Saturday–Sunday; 7:30pm, Saturday.

Venue: South African State Theatre, Church St. Cost: R140–R250. Book through Computicket: visit computicket.com

playtime and story time Safari Garden Centre Children can enjoy a pony ride and safari train ride on the weekends, monkey around on the large jungle gym and view the marmoset monkeys, potbellied pigs, dwarf mountain goats and other animals. Time: 9am–4pm, daily. Venue: from the N1 take the Lynnwood Rd off-ramp, turn right into Lynnwood Rd, and drive for 2,9km. Cost: free entry. Contact: 012 807 0009 or visit safarigardencentre.com Winter Wonderland Take a spin around the outdoor ice rink that has been setup in the centre court. 21 June– 14 July. Time: 9am–6pm, daily. Venue: Irene Village Mall, cnr Nellmapius Dr and Van Ryneveld Dr, Irene. Cost: R30 for 30 minutes (includes skates). Contact: 012 662 4446, info@irenevillagemall.co.za or visit irenevillagemall.co.za

sport and physical activities Family yoga classes Time: 3:45pm, every Monday. Venue: Yoga Centurion, 107 Pine Ave, Bronberrik, Centurion. Cost: R50 per family member, per class.

Contact Caryn: 082 602 7689 or info@ gowiththeflow.co.za Zwartkops Quad Centre After receiving basic instruction, children can set off to experience the sensation of riding a quad bike. For children 4–15 years old.

24 June–12 July. Time: 10am–5pm, Tuesday– Wednesday and Friday–Sunday. Venue: Zwartkops Quad Centre, north corner Zwartkops Raceway, Route R55, Centurion.

Cost: R13–R15 per lap (basic training and helmets included). Contact Linky: 012 323 1932, 082 688 6046, bookings@quadrides. co.za or visit quadrides.co.za

24 June–12 July – Zwartkops Quad Centre

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only for parents classes, talks and workshops Basic sign language workshop Workshops one and two are covered in today’s full-day class that teaches parents and caretakers sign language. Classes in English and Afrikaans. Booking essential.

20 July. Time: 8am. Venue: Netcare Femina, 460 Belvedere St, Prinshof 349-Jr, Arcadia.

Cost: R765 (excludes refreshments).

Contact: 082 218 7339, contact@ tinyhandz.co.za or visit tinyhandz.co.za Inclusion conference The conference aims to identify and dismantle exclusionary pressures and practices in education. For teachers, therapists and parents. 1–6 July.

Time: from 8:30am. Venue: Wits School of Education, St Andrew’s Rd, Parktown, Joburg. Cost: R2 500–R6 000. Contact Barbi: 011 325 2406, md@saaled.org.za or visit inclusionconference2013.org Parent effectiveness training This eight-week course teaches parents practical communication and conflict handling skills. Starts 26 July. Time: 9am–12pm or 6:30pm–9:30pm. Venue: Irene. Cost: R1 800. Contact Marti in Irene: 082 339 1543 or Heidi in Brooklyn: 082 904 8127 or visit parents.co.za Winter pruning demo Let Ludwig show you how easy it is to prune your roses.

6 and 7 July. Time: 10:30am. Venue: Ludwigs Rose Farm, N1 Polokwane high–way going north, Wallmannstahl/Pyramid off–ramp, No 163. Cost: free. Contact Charity: 012 544 0144 or visit ludwigsroses.co.za

on stage and screen Arno Carstens live Pack a picnic hamper or order a pizza from the deli and enjoy an evening with this South African rock icon.

29 July. Time: 8pm, doors open at 6:30pm.

Venue: Barnyard Theatre Parkview, shop F92 Parkview Shopping Centre, cnr Garsfontein Rd and Netcare St, Moreleta Park. Cost: R150. Contact: 012 368 1555 or visit barnyardtheatre.co.za BanksRupt Comedian Mark Banks is going for broke in this comedy sketch show.

5 and 6 July. Time: 8pm. Venue: Centurion Theatre, 123 Amcor Rd, Lyttelton Manor.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 012 664 7859 or visit centurionteater.co.za Chris Chameleon’s Man This surprising epilogue will stay with audiences for a long time. For children 15 years and older. 19 and 20 July. Time: 8pm. Venue: Centurion Theatre, 123 Amcor Rd, Lyttelton Manor.

Cost: tbc. Contact: 012 664 7859 or visit centurionteater.co.za Oscar and the pink aunt Sandra Prinsloo stars in this one-woman show: a heartrending story about a young boy who suffers from cancer, and his Grandma who guides him with imaginative and humorous stories through his last days. For children 14 years and older. 25 July. Time: 8pm.

Venue: Centurion Theatre, 123 Amcor Rd, Lyttelton Manor. Cost: tbc. Contact: 012 664 7859 or visit centurionteater.co.za Rigoletto One of Verdi’s most popular operas is presented with no chorus, but includes the best known arias, duets and the famous Quartet. 19, 21, 24, 26 and 28

July. Time: 8pm, Wednesday and Friday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Brooklyn Theatre, Greenlyn Village Centre, cnr Thomas Edison St and 13th St, Menlo Park. Cost: R150–R250. Contact: 012 460 6033 or visit brooklyntheatre.co.za

support groups Famsa Provides assistance to families and individuals in need of counselling. Venue: 218 Lange St, Brooklyn. Contact: 012 460 0733/8, 079 656 7286, famsa@absamail. co.za or visit famsapretoria.co.za Pretoria Adoption support group Provides support to families of adoptive children. Contact: pretoriaasg@yahoo.com Single Parents support group A social club for single parents and their children that meets up and takes part in various activities once a month. 27 July. Time: 1pm. Venue: varies. Cost: free membership.

Contact: Jean-Marie: 076 054 5510 or visit soloparenting.weebly.com

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Babies at Clamber Club The start of a new term of movement and stimulation classes for babies 2–12 months and moms.

15 July. Time: varies. Venue: Midstream Estate, Centurion. Cost: varies. Contact: 082 853 5278 or visit clamberclub.com Mommy and baby yoga classes Filled with exercises to help support baby’s development. Time: 10:30am–11:30am, every Thursday. Venue: Yoga Centurion, 107 Pine Ave, Bronberrik, Centurion. Cost: R100 per class. Contact Caryn: 082 602 7689 or info@gowiththeflow.co.za Pregnancy education workshop For women in their first 16 weeks of pregnancy. Find out how your baby is developing, about common pregnancy problems, diet issues, screening tests and more. 24 July. Time: 3:30pm–5:30pm.

Venue: Netcare Montana Hospital, cnr Dr Swanepoel St and Rooibos St, Montana Park. Cost: free. Contact: 012 523 3008, christina.moutinho@netcare.co.za or visit netcare.co.za Pregnancy yoga Midwife Ruth guides you through gentle yoga postures to keep you supple and equip you with breathing techniques. Time: 4:45pm–5:45pm, every Monday. Venue: Yoga Centurion, 107 Pine Ave, Bronberrik, Centurion. Cost: R300 per month. Contact Charene: 082 572 4880 or visit yogacenturion.co.za Start of Toptots term 3 Share and be a part of your little one’s development. For babies 3 months–4 years old. Starts 15 July.

Time: varies. Venue: across Gauteng. Cost: varies. For more info: visit toptots.co.za

playtime and story time Menlyn Play Park Bike tracks, climbing frames, a Wendy house and much more.

Parental supervision is required. Time: 10am–6pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–6pm, Saturday; 10am–6pm, Sunday. Venue: Menlyn Park, cnr Atterbury St and Lois St, Menlyn. Cost: R10 out of season, R20 in season. Contact: 012 348 8766 or visit menlynpark.co.za

19 and 20 July – Chris Chameleon’s Man

Mungolistix An indoor playground where children 0–7 years old can play in a safe and secure environment. Time: 9am–5pm, daily. Venue: Mungolistix, shop 342A, Centurion Mall. Cost: R35 per hour, R25 for groups of four; drop and shop R40 per hour. Contact: 074 122 2787, info@ mungolistix.co.za or visit mungolistix.co.za

support groups Bipolar Kids South Africa Offering support and guidance for parents. Contact Lee: 083 227 2304, bpkidssa@mweb.co.za or visit bpkidssouthafrica.co.za.

Breast-feeding support The La Leche League offers advice to mothers that want to breast-feed their babies. Contact Nicole: 012 345 4898 or Elsemarie: 012 809 0794 or visit llli.org/southafrica.html Deaf Federation of South Africa Contact: 012 324 0950/2, deafeducation@ deafsa.co.za or visit deafsa.co.za

how to help Hope Warriors Children’s Charity An NPO that assists vulnerable and orphaned youth. They take children off the streets and help them with homework and computer literacy. They are in need of stationery, classroom equipment, school uniforms, shoes, toys, non-perishable food and monetary donations towards school fees. Venue: stand 3243, Block M-Extension, Soshanguve.

Contact: 078 972 6491, 072 234 6653 or hopewarriorscharity@gmail.com Wheel Well Donate your child safety seat and they create a “seat exchange” where lower income families can get seats for a minimum cost. Contact: 072 385 7121, peggie@wheelwell.co.za or visit wheelwell. co.za for drop-off points in your area.

don’t miss out!

For a free listing, email your event to pretoria@childmag. co.za or fax it to 011 234 4971.

Information must be received by 5 July for the August issue, and must include all relevant details.

No guarantee can be given that it will be published. To post an event online, visit childmag.co.za

magazine pretoria

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

childmag.co.za/resources/birthday-parties

magazine pretoria

July 2013

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finishing touch

it’s a girl thing – or is it?

g

irls wear pink and boys play with trucks. Really? Or do we as parents inadvertently impose these gender stereotypes on our children? I confronted this uncomfortable notion recently when Erin decided to wear Conor’s clothes for the day. Conor’s clothing cupboard is at just the right height for her to be able to “window shop”. She usually just dumps his stuff on the floor, but on this occasion she announced that she wanted to wear his shirt and jeans. I decided not to make a big deal of this, and duly dressed her in her brother’s gear. Craig was less enthusiastic about her clothing choice. He tried to encourage her to put on a dress instead, but she was having none of it.

I didn’t think it bothered me much, until we got to the market and I suddenly became acutely aware of all the little girls dressed beautifully in skirts or dresses.

Erin is also not a fan of hair accessories, so when dressed in her brother’s khakis and denim, she looked just like a boy. And

Erin, Anél and Conor

when she started playing with another little girl, attired in the de rigueur pink, I found myself explaining to the mother that Erin was in fact a girl, and that she was just going through a phase.

But why should it matter so much what Erin is wearing? Surely it’s limiting to presume that only boys can wear blue and that girls can never wear functional shorts and neutral colours? I am starting to realise how insidiously these stereotypes creep

into the way we speak and act. We recently bought Conor a toy train to play with, and Erin a doll. Of course, she was more interested in the locomotive and insisted on getting one too.

This being said, it has been fascinating to observe how differently brother and sister play. Erin naturally gravitates towards a more nurturing role. She talks to her ponies and will cook up imaginary dishes in her wooden oven, while Conor is fascinated with wheels

and other moving parts that make a noise. In an article on gender norms, Australian family psychologist Ian Wallace explains that this is partly because the Y chromosome kicks in at about the eighth week in utero for boys and this causes them to be “wired” differently to girls. They need more physical activity to learn, for example, and will therefore engage in rougher, action-driven play. But despite their different wiring, parents should still be cautious about unconsciously imposing gender labels. Think twice before referring to your son as “my big boy”, but your daughter as your “little girl” as you lead her towards the dolls in the toy shop. Let them tackle similar activities and expose them to the same experiences.

Erin’s “cross-dressing” exercise was, say the experts, a normal and healthy exploration of her free will. She does not have any gender biases yet, and she is not constrained by any stereotypes. I just hope we can keep this in mind should Conor show an interest in wearing her princess pyjamas.

family marketplace

30

July 2013

magazine pretoria

PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

ANél LEWIS hopes her children grow up without gender stereotypes limiting their sense of adventure.

books

a good read for toddlers A Kiss like This

By Mary Murphy (Published by Candlewick Press, R137) A giraffe kiss is very tall, just turn the page and see what a tall giraffe kiss looks like. Elephant kisses are long, of course, while tiny mice and bubbly fish have kisses all their own. Using a clever split-page format that makes for charming surprises, authorillustrator Mary Murphy shares a series of animal kisses that are sure to have babies and toddlers gurgling, giggling, smiling, and leaning over for their kisses. The creator of I Kissed the Baby! celebrates animal moms and babies in an irresistible novelty book. This delightful read will also make mom and dad smile.

My Dog, My Cat, My Mum and Me

By Nigel Gray and Bob Graham

(Published by Walker Books, R78) There are puppies, kittens and babies galore in this fun lift-the-flap book from the award-winning partnership. The story begins: “My dog got fatter and fatter. I didn’t know what was the matter!” When a litter of puppies arrives, the reason becomes clear. Lift the flaps as the little girl meets puppies, kittens and finally her very own little baby brothers in this fun, simple introduction to the concept of birth and life cycles for children from the age of two.

for early graders

for preschoolers

an absolu te deligh t

parenting book

Ronny-G’s Travels

By Gina Wolfenden-McDowell

read and sha

re

Kaliya the Serpent King

By Joshua M. Greene and Patrick Wire (Published by Mandala Publishing, R172) Kaliya, king of ancient India’s serpent people, crosses the gods and must leave. He relocates to the pristine Yamuna River, which flows by young Krishna’s village of Vrindavan. The serpent king’s venom poisons the river. Birds fall lifeless to the ground, trees and vegetation dry up, and the lives of the villagers are in danger. Although only a child, Krishna has sworn to protect and safeguard the many animals and people who depend on the river for their existence. Whether one views Krishna as a divine being or as a mischievous child, his respect for nature is exemplary.

(Published by Logogog, R60) Not many people know what dolls think and do. This enchanting story transports you into the world of Ronny-G, a doll made in Thailand.

From heart-stopping adventures up the Eiffel Tower in France, to meeting a cuckoo bird in a cuckoo clock in Switzerland, Ronny-G interacts with toys from all over the world. This unique tale blurs fact and fiction and includes lessons for everyone. Ronny-G’s travels were born out of the author’s many travels and life experiences. Most of the experiences of Ronny-G are factually based, besides, of course, the story being about a talking doll. To read more about Ronny-G and to order books, visit ronnygstravels.com

for preteens and teens Children’s World Atlas (Published by Map Studio, R150) The Children’s World Atlas for South Africans brings an understanding of the world to your child. It introduces children to continents, time zones, countries’ flags, countries’ facts and much more, while they follow Globeman, a globe with “personality” travelling in a yellow Beetle, through interactive map-related activities. This atlas for children includes detailed country-by-country maps showing national capitals and town capitals. Other content includes facts like sizes in comparison, number of countries per continent, length of road and rail networks, population and population density as well as population growth per annum. This introductory guide to the world for your child is perfect for ages 10 to 15.

Play Learn Know

By Melodie de Jager and Liz Victor (Published by Metz Press, R220) These are simple, playful solutions to developing complex skills, preparing children aged three to seven for school and life. A child is a work in progress who thrives when everyday living becomes an interactive game.

Play Learn Know is a guide to help parents and caregivers shape their child’s body, heart and mind with care and thoughtfulness. A child needs to experience it to become part of life.

You can help your children to belong by exposing them to everyday life by teaching them to name the things they touch. Explain what happens around them and show them how things work. Allow children the opportunity to discover-learn, to move and ask questions freely.

for us The 50 List

By Nigel Holland (Published by HarperCollins Publishers, R125) Nigel has a disability, a degenerative disease (Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease), that means his nerves do not tell his muscles what to do.

But he does not consider himself disabled. His youngest child, Ellie, has been diagnosed with the same condition. To inspire Ellie, Nigel set himself a list of 50 challenges. As the years pass, his mobility will gradually get worse and many of them, sadly, will no longer be possible. But for now he is focusing on being his daughter’s superhero. This is the heart-warming story of the adventures that sparked this list. Inspiring and surprising, it will move you to tears and laughter, and leave you believing that you really can accomplish anything.

Recognising Postnatal Depression

By Paula Levin, Zahava Aarons and Andy Taub-Da Costa (Published by Penguin South Africa, R171) Having a baby is hard for everyone, and for some women it’s worse than hard – it’s a living hell. The journey to motherhood is sometimes clouded with unrealistic expectations and unfair judgment of any woman who isn’t immediately happy with her new baby. This title offers hope, support and comfort and a clear path out of what may feel like an overwhelming situation. Written by a medical doctor, a clinical psychologist and their patient, a writer, each author contributes her own experience and expertise in the area of postnatal depression to an enlightening discussion of how to recognise it and ways to recover.