Child Magazine | Pretoria May 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

let’s party

your party planning toolkit from invites to thank-you notes

www.childmag.co.za

May 2013

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health

autism redefined – new criteria alternative education options

education

entertainment

Hunter House P UB L IS H ING

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

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

Art

PUBLISHER’S PHOTOGRAPH: BROOKE FASANI / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s to many, many happy birthdays.

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

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

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May 2013

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contents

may 2013

upfront

regulars

3 a note from lisa

8 upfront with paul we should

6 over to you readers respond 21 reader’s blog parents should be involved in all aspects of their children’s lives, says Justin Skea

features 13 a slice of history Marina Zietsman looks at the humble beginnings of the birthday cake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22 the ultimate party guide compiled by Marina Zietsman

29 a good read new books for the whole family

30 what’s on in may 34 finishing touch Anél Lewis loves every moment she spends with her children, but admits she sometimes craves some “me-time”

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

By Tamlyn Vincent

classified ads 34 family marketplace

this month’s cover images are supplied by:

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Joburg

Cape Town

Jean Bourget Photo: Olivier Ribardière Jelli Children’s Boutique

Absorba Photo: Gérard Harten Jelli Children’s Boutique

Durban

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

Pretoria

shutterstock.com

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letters

technology can unlock potential

great article on vaccination

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alexandra Grant, The Little Ashford Preschool, Joburg

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

Tertia Japp-Pearse, Durban

over to you a hairy issue I will start off by saying you produce a super magazine chock-full of excellent information and resources. I often see adorable little black girls in magazines with overprocessed hair. I know the magazines do not intend to promote destructive living habits, but the producers of relaxer warn that children under a certain age should not get their hair chemically processed, as it destroys the hair. Braids are always a great choice.

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

Noosie Petlele

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

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

At a guess I would say from about six months old, I rubbed their gums each night with a quality brandy.

The results speak for themselves: none of my children drink or smoke and they have pretty good teeth to display. Incidentally, they all slept extra well most of

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May 2013

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

Chris de Beer

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

Bradley, HaemophiliaSA

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

the time. This advice is obviously not going to go down well as it involves alcohol, but believe me, it was an unforgettable period for my late wife and I. If you’re interested, I also have a remarkable cure for hay fever and whooping cough.

By the way, I am very fit and still athletic and haven’t visited a doctor for over 40 years. I can also still dive from a 12-foot board.

Derrick Merber

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

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

So the idea of him doing voluntary work has crossed my mind. I was thinking that perhaps he could help out somewhere for a morning or an afternoon doing age-appropriate tasks. He mentioned that the aquarium sent forms to his school for volunteer work on weekends and that he just had to sign up if he was interested.

We’ve contacted them and have received positive feed back on age-appropriate courses. For future holiday

activities and inspiration, I thought to approach Child magazine to find out what your readers with teenage children do to keep them occupied, entertained and happy during the holidays.

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

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

Errol Beetge

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

To subscribe, visit childmag.co.za

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

Post a comment online at childmag.co.za

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upfront with paul

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

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

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

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Saskia, Paul and Sabina

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

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

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

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

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

Follow Paul on Twitter: @fabdad1

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PHOTOGRAPH: MARIETTE BARKHUIZEN

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

health

fight this infection

e

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

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

look out for these signs

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

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

Meningitis can be life-threatening, but

getting help quickly will decrease the risk of

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

complications. By TAMLYN VINCENT

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risky business

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

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

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

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pregnancy news

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

LUCILLE KEMP asks seasoned parents for their layette recommendations.

best for baby

be water wise k

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

PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

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

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

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

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

children, because of its low mineral content.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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dealing with difference

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

proposed changes to the DSM-5 regarding Asperger’s disorder Janine Chester, director of Autism Western Cape, explains that the way we describe autism-related disabilities will change.

Medical professionals will no longer distinguish between autism, Asperger’s disorder, pervasive development disorder not otherwise specified and childhood disintegrative disorder. Instead, all these disorders will form part of an autism spectrum disorder, with one of three severity levels. Janine explains that the severity levels of an ASD are based on the amount of support required by the individual, due to the challenges presented by the disorder.

There are three levels: requiring support, requiring substantial support and requiring very substantial support.

“These terms seem to be very subjective and could be interpreted differently by professionals.” If the severity should fall outside of the scope of these levels but social communication challenges are still evident, then a new category, known as social communication disorder (SCD), might apply. For SCD to be diagnosed, the individual must not exhibit the more restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities, which characterise an ASD. Chantal van Ginkel, an educational consultant who works with both children and adults with autism spectrum disorders, points out that although communication is now assessed in a more holistic way and the emphasis is on the social aspects

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The new diagnostic criteria may exclude cognitively developed, higher-functioning individuals from receiving a diagnosis, thus excluding them from interventions and resources. of the condition, there is a concern that “the new diagnostic criteria may exclude cognitively developed, higher-functioning individuals from receiving a diagnosis, thus excluding them from interventions and resources”.

why the changes?

Jill Stacey, national director at Autism South Africa, states that the diagnostic changes are an attempt to eliminate subjective influences when making a diagnosis. “It is possible to clearly distinguish between people with an autism spectrum disorder and so-called ‘normal/neuro-typical’ people,” she says, “but it is difficult to diagnose subgroups within the autistic category accurately and consistently, without the influence of perceptions, different training or viewpoints.” Research also indicates that the new diagnostic criteria are more accurate regarding the presentation and pathology of autism and that the stipulated levels of support

will be more beneficial for people with an ASD. Dr Cobie Lombard, principal of Unica School for Autism in Pretoria, says, “This will hopefully lead to more focus on the individual’s needs in terms of school placement and intervention, without creating unrealistic expectations from parents.”

pros and cons of the changes to the DSM-5 Janine, who is also the mother of a 15-year-old adolescent suffering from Asperger’s, sees benefits and problems in

the proposed changes. “On the one hand a diagnosis of autism, not Asperger’s, will make it easier for parents to obtain concessions for the challenges faced by children on the spectrum – such as getting a scribe, extra time for exams, as well as enabling children to take notes and do their homework on the computer.”

In other words, the perception of Asperger’s as mild will be tempered by the realisation that the daily difficulties of such individuals are not always simple for both the person concerned and their family.

“My son’s inability to read social cues and interact with people severely impacts upon his social interaction, making most social contact extremely stressful for him.”

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

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

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

well-known people who have been diagnosed as “Aspies” • • • • • •

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

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PHOTOGRAPH: shutterSTOCK.COM

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

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fyi

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

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

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

when did things change?

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

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

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

cake trends

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

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

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

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

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

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

1990–1999 Photo cakes become the latest cake trend.

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

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

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

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your party

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

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planning the party

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

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

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

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

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

Pinterest is a novel way of collecting ideas, and organising them in an accessible way. You can also access thousands of other pinboards packed with party inspiration.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

turning 3

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4 friends

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

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PHOTOGRAPHS / ILLUSTRATIONS: shutterstock.com

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

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out-of-the-box venues

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

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

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

winter

summer

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

A boat works well for a sea-themed party.

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

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

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

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

Set up a food table at one of the skateboard parks in your neighbourhood and let the boys “ollie” to their heart’s content. Just make sure you have their parents’ permission and that everyone is safely kitted out.

spring Visit a spa for a pamper party.

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

autumn

Visit a natural quarry or a forest.

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

Use the scratch patch for an explorer’s theme.

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

Older girls may enjoy a fancy high tea.

Lunch at an airport restaurant for plane-mad boys.

An aquarium for an underwater party

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

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your party

3

please come to my party

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

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

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

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

Make mini beach balls for a pool party.

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

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

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

Personalise invites with the hungry caterpillar.

Send a fortune cookie that has the invite inside.

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

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party food

Your choice of food may be determined by the theme, the age of your child, and even the time of day. Younger children will enjoy simple, finger foods while older children can eat just about anything. If you have a mix of ages at the party, ensure that younger children can’t ingest anything that may be a choking hazard.

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

Serve savoury food first, then the sweet fare. Spare a thought for the parents who will be taking home a child pumped up on sugar if you go crazy with the sugary treats. Keep a balance, and have plenty of fruit and other nutritious options available. Fruit kebabs are a creative way of serving something healthy, yet colourful.

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

Bear in mind that you may have guests at the party who are allergic to certain foods.

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

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5

parents’ behaviour

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

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

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

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

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

Have snacks for grown-ups.

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

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

6

Also provide nonalcoholic beverages.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Also think about thank-you gifts, such as a plant with an organic pot that can be planted. This doubles as a party favour. You could also give parents a Lotto ticket, especially for a younger child’s celebration.

May 2013

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education

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

o

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

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

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

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May 2013

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PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– World Economic Forum

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

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

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education

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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reader’s blog

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

PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

t

St Cyprian’s Preparatory School head Justin Skea.

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

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

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

Eckhart Tolle describes presence as “a still and alert attention, a type of consciousness, which causes you to awaken to yourself and to the other in your relationships”.

In this sense, presence means more than simply “being there” but implies a sacred stillness in which by sharing your presence with others, and others sharing their

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presence with you, you free yourself from your own ego and desires and provide the opportunity for authentic relationships to develop.

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

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

Sadly, in most schools we have many children who I could at best describe as “social orphans” – they are fed and clothed, and given all they need to lead a supposedly normal existence, yet their parents are completely absent from their emotional and spiritual needs. Children yearn for acknowledgement, recognition and affirmation, and this must come from the home, first and foremost. A line from the film Shall We Dance sums this up: “Everybody needs someone to witness their lives.”

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

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

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resource

accessories and services ABC Jumping 4 Kids They hire out various jumping castles. From R200–R320. Contact: 082 368 0191, abcjumpingkids@gmail.com or visit jumping4kids.co.za Ace Jumping Castles They hire out jumping castles, water slides, popcorn machines and candyfloss machines and have entertainers. Doringkloof. Contact: 079 154 4391, info@acejumpingcastles. co.za or visit acejumpingcastles.co.za Aloemore Decor They offer themed decor. Their decor is easy to transport and lightweight. It can be manufactured to order. Pretoria East.

Contact: 012 991 1713, 082 938 3434 or decor@aloemore.co.za Amazing Jumping Castles They hire out jumping castles with themes ranging from water slides and an adventure island. They also set up themed parties with furniture.

Centurion. Contact: 082 500 8873, natanya@amazingjumpingcastles.co.za or visit amazingjumpingcastles.co.za A-Z Creative Entertainment Organisers of pizza and sushi parties, and suppliers of catering, party equipment and African drumming parties. Contact: 011 682 2660, 072 373 8963, zelda@creativeentertainment.co.za or visit creativeentertainment.co.za Balloon Magic Supply custom-printed balloon decor to suit your theme. For centrepieces, balloon sculpting, balloon pillars and arches. Contact: 011 892 4219, 083 276 2747, cindy@balloon-magic.co.za or visit balloon-magic.co.za B-Day Parties Suppliers of themed party decor. You can choose from 180 themes. Nationwide. Contact: 021 853 1727, linda@bdayparties.co.za or visit bdayparties.co.za BellaBagheera For invitations, favour stickers, cupcake toppers and more. They can tailor designs to your theme. Contact: 021 712 4710, 071 869 2151, 072 722 7758, info@bellabagheera.co.za or visit bellabagheera.co.za

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May 2013

Bouncy Pals They hire out a variety of jumping castles, water slides, sky dancers, tables and chairs, high slides, helium balloons and marquee tents. They also set up and coordinate your event.

Pretoria East. Contact: 082 366 0140, 076 128 2049, info@bouncypals.co.za or visit bouncypals.com Call a Castle They rent out various jumping castles including a slip ’n slide, slide with a pond and a three-in-one jumping castle. Delivery and pick-up is free of charge. Contact: 082 355 9490 or kobus@callacastle.co.za Candy Kids Fun Rides They hire out swings, a boat and horse carousel, mini trains, water ski rides and slides. Contact: 073 228 4180 or candykidsfunrides@gmail.com Candy Man Offers a broad selection of party accessories, sweets and chocolates. Contact: 012 665 5997 or candyman@telkomsa.net Cosmo Balloons Stockist of balloon decor, balloon printing, helium gas, party accessories, costumes, wigs, masks and face paint. Waterkloof Glen. Contact: 012 998 3596, lee@cosmo-balloons.co.za or visit cosmoballoons.co.za Crazy Concepts They sell high-quality playground equipment and toys, ball ponds, rock climbing walls, funny mirrors, rides and jumping castles.

Nationwide. Contact: 021 850 0102, info@crazyconcepts.co.za or visit crazyconcepts.co.za Crazy Water Balls Rents out waterballs and zorb balls. Contact: 082 449 4197, shauny@crazywaterballs.co.za or visit crazywaterballs.co.za Creatix Design House Designer photo books, invitations and calendars.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 391 9740, 083 878 1831, cindy.creatix@gmail. com or visit creatixdesignhouse.co.za Crystal Print Designers of personalised children’s invitations and stationery. Prices range from R10 to R50. Nationwide.

Contact: 031 205 7284, info@crystalprintsa. co.za or visit crystalprintsa.co.za

Dirk’s Entertainment Rent out go-carts and mechanical bulls. You can also book an indoor go-carting party in Menlyn Park. Contact: 079 880 1916, isagofun@gmail.com or visit lemansracing.co.za Enchanted Creations A party hire and decor shop with invitations, personalised banners, jumping castles, themed decor, accessories, themed bags, 3D cakes and more. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 084 567 5220, info@ enchantedcreations.co.za or visit enchantedcreations.co.za Fabulous Party A party shop that supplies party decor, accessories, party packs, jumping castles and a wide range of gifts and toys. They do catering, deliver and setup.

Centurion. Contact: 012 667 3081, info@fabulousparty.co.za or visit fabulousparties.co.za Fantasy Jumping Castles Their range of jumping castles includes the fairy jumper, water slide and princess combo and they sell chairs and personalised banners. Meyerspark. Contact: 012 803 2705, borntoshop@telkomsa.net or visit fantasyjumpingcastles.co.za FunDeco4Kids They rent out imported activity jumping castles with slides and obstacles. Set up and collections included in the price. Contact: 012 803 2705, 082 336 1860, info@ fantasyjumpingcastles.co.za or visit fantasyjumpingcastles.co.za Gummi’s Castles and Adventures Supplies jumping castles, gazebos and spit braais, candyfloss, slush puppy and popcorn machines, and chocolate fountains. Entertainment can be arranged. Rooihuiskraal.

Contact: 083 676 5515, info@gummis. co.za or visit gummis.co.za In Good Company Shop online for imported and local linen, tableware, decorations and party favours.

Contact: 011 447 1628, contactus@ ingoodcompany.co.za or visit ingoodcompany.co.za

Its Mine labels Invitations in a variety of themes, which can be paired with party stickers. Magnetised invitation packs, personalised ribbon and wrapping paper also offered. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 646 3640 or visit itsmine.co.za Jeremy Kusner Productions Suppliers of party and event entertainment, from carousels and mini trains. Sound and lighting equipment available. Contact: 0861 112 876, info@jkproductions.co.za or visit jkproductions.co.za Jitterbugs An online shop for magnet invitations, party-pack stickers, personalised T-shirts and party pack gifts. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 031 261 1030, orders@jitterbugs.co.za or visit jitterbugs.co.za Just Labels Colourful personalised stickers for children’s birthday presents.

Choose your own wording and pictures on their website. Visit: justlabels.co.za Kate’s Party Rentals Rents out tables and chairs, marquees, catering equipment, umbrellas, crockery and cutlery, including tea sets for children, children’s furniture, jumping castles and more. Contact: 011 886 2336, 011 789 6718, kpr1@telkomsa.net or visit katespartyrentals.co.za Kiddie Junction Online store that offers a wide range of items for party packs and a wide selection of toys. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 073 163 8703, karen@kiddiejunction.co.za or visit kiddiejunction.co.za Kids Labels International Offers a wide variety of gift labels posted countrywide.

They also stock gift wrapping products, personalised ribbon, invitations and DIY labels. Contact: 021 794 6637 or visit kidslabels.co.za Kids Like Us Piñata Factory Offers custom-made piñatas in various themes as well as professional face painting. Contact: 072 228 0563 or kids_like_us@live.com magazine pretoria

ILLUSTRATIONS: shutterstock.com

Your comprehensive guide of everything party related. Compiled by MARINA ZIETSMAN

Kids Party Packs They supply themed partyware, party packs and piñatas.

They deliver. Contact: 082 887 4298, info@kidspartypacks.co.za or visit kidspartypacks.co.za Kidz Cardz & Party Buckets Personalised party buckets, party packs, invitations, piñatas and themed bottled water, juice or milkshake. Nationwide deliveries. Contact: 072 584 7083, info@ kidzcardz.co.za or visit kidzcardz.co.za Kidz Fun Hire They rent out slush machines, candyfloss machines, popcorn machines, disco lights, bubble machines, helium and other balloons plus children’s tables and chairs, and jumping castles. Contact: 082 705 6310, sales@ kidsfunhire.co.za or visit kidsfunhire.co.za Kidz Party Zone For themed decor, tables, chairs, table cloths, tie-backs, banners, flags, photo boards, party boxes and balloons. Contact: 012 331 3460, 072 562 8971, kidzpartyzone.biz@gmail.com or visit kidzpartyzone.co.za Labels Inc Personalised stationery including party invitations, gift labels and cards. From R60. Nationwide. Contact: 082 556 4232, 082 897 7799, lauren@labelsinc. co.za or visit labelsinc.co.za Little Occasions For a collection of designer partyware via online shopping.

Nationwide. Contact: 011 071 7436, 083 415 6162, info@littleoccasions.co.za or visit littleoccasions.co.za Love Letters An online store that sells creative stationery, placemats, personalised gifts and organisers.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 651 8074, lovelettersstationery@gmail.com or visit lovelettersstationery.co.za Macaroon Offers personalised, online stationery. Also offers gift stickers.

Nationwide. Contact: 011 782 9529 ext 202, orders@macaroon.co.za or visit macaroon.co.za Makiti! They supply a variety of party accessories, such as serviettes, party packs, hats, invites, plates, cups, straws, banners and more. Waverley. Contact: 012 332 3669, shop@makitiparty.co.za or visit makitiparty.co.za Matilda’s Partyware Designer paper partyware delivered to your door. Nationwide. Contact: 084 777 5125, ebeth@partyware.co.za or visit partyware.co.za Mom’s Party Packs They deliver party packs with a selection of themes ranging from Disney, cartoon and rugby. From R17 to R33 per party pack. Garsfontein.

Contact: 084 707 6983, 084 260 9309, chantelle@momspartypacks.com or visit momspartypacks.com Money Box Party Packs Unique, novel and affordable party packs with ranges that include blank money boxes, set design, DIY, colouring in, as well as licensed stickers, starting from R9.

Nationwide. Contact: 082 422 7872 or visit jorsam.co.za Moonshine Beverages Frosty Fred slush, Frosty Fruit smoothies and Hi-Spiritz cocktail machines for hire. They deliver, set up and collect. Contact: 011 973 3967, info@moonshinebev.co.za or visit moonshinebev.co.za magazine pretoria

Nox Designs Personalised labels for birthday and party packs.

From R45. Contact: 082 496 2930, nstark@mweb.co.za or visit their Facebook page Parties 4 Africa An online shop with a range of party products in over 50 children’s themes. Delivery is overnight and nationwide. Contact: 035 772 6592, 083 635 5353, info@parties4africa.co.za or visit parties4africa.co.za Party Freaks Themed decor, which include the furniture, banners, photo boards and more. Party packs with snacks are supplied and a host of other party accessories are for rent.

Theresapark and Pretoria North. Contact: 083 490 9429, 076 167 0598, info@ partyfreaks.co.za or visit partyfreaks.co.za Party Packs ’n Piñatas Makes cakes, cupcakes and biscuits in your theme and matching party packs. Also supplies piñatas and jelly cameras. Nationwide.

Contact: 083 490 9429, 076 167 0598, info@partypacksandpinatas.co.za or visit partypacksandpinatas.co.za Piñata and Balloon Africa Sells piñatas in any shape, size or colour, as well as balloon art decor. Nationwide. Contact: 082 457 2276, mgwyther@mweb.co.za or visit piñatas.co.za Polly Potter’s Toy Store Sells party gifts and toys. Southdowns. Contact: 012 665 4485, pollypotter@telkomsa.net or visit pollypotterstoystore.co.za Rainbow Parties For themed decor, cakes and other eats, party packs and accessories. They can also assist in arranging entertainment. Contact: 012 362 2383, 072 271 5371, carmenyup@iburst. co.za or visit rainbowparties.co.za Sensation Lab Manufactures and hires dance floors, marquees, candlelit walkways, fairy and disco lights.

Nationwide. Contact: 011 023 5940, info@sensationlab.co.za or visit sensationlab.co.za Stick With Us! Design and printing of personalised party stationery including invitations, thank-you stickers and cards, party box stickers, banners and posters and T-shirt printing. Nationwide. Contact: 082 377 0513, mandy@stickwithus.co.za or visit stickwithus.co.za Sunshine Parties Get designed party printables for birthday parties. They sell bunting, digital invitations, cupcake toppers, food labels and can customise designs to suit your needs and budget.

International delivery. Contact: 031 764 6350, parties@limelightwebsites.co.za or visit sunshineshabby.com Sweet Dreams They rent out a candyfloss machine for R300 per day, including coloured sugars and 30 sticks; a popcorn machine for R300 per day including two packets of kernels and 30 bags. R500 for both. Centurion and Irene.

Contact: 073 702 3395, 084 500 6855 or NTsweetdreams@gmail.com The Castle Man They hire out 3-in1 combo castles, standard castles as well as water slides from R340 per day.

Midrand. Contact: 083 965 0255, 083 626 1551, thecastleman6@gmail.com or visit thecastleman.co.za

Tinkle-pea They offer gifts and party favours. Nationwide. Contact: 082 804 5678, jenny@tinklepea.co.za or visit tinklepea.co.za Trippe Trappe Tone Jumping Castles They rent out jumping castles, including a 3-in-1 with ball pond and an adventure island. Contact: 012 377 1710, 082 677 1553 or trippetrappetone@telkomsa.net Unlimited Jumping Castles They deliver, set up and collect jumping castles. Centurion. Contact: 072 721 1675, unlimitedcon@mweb.co.za or visit unlimitedevents.co.za Variatas Party Shop They stock various balloons, plates and cups, gift wrap, favours, gift boxes, serviettes and more.

Pretoria East. Contact: 012 992 6062, 082 331 6368, sw@variatas.com or visit variatas.co.za

animal parties Bester Birds and Animals Zoo Park They have several species of exotic animals and birds. Party children get to feed the animals. Party packs available.

Willow Glen. Contact: 012 807 2574, zoo@besterbirdsanimals.co.za or visit besterbirdsanimals.co.za Croc City Crocodile Farm Touch or hold a croc hatchling under supervision. Catering and entertainment provided. Nietgedacht.

Contact: 083 657 7561, info@croccity.co.za or visit croccity.co.za Esperanza Riding School and Party Venue With farm animals, a playground, pony and donkey cart rides as well as quad bike hire. Pretoria East.

Contact: 076 184 5660 or visit esperanzaridingschool.co.za Horse Dynamics Pony parties in Pretoria East. Contact: 082 410 7262 or visit horsedynamics.co.za Lory Park Zoo Offers self-catering braai facilities or set menus. Free use of jumping castle and jungle gym. Midrand.

Contact: 011 315 7307, info@lorypark. co.za or visit lorypark.co.za Ludwig’s Rose Farm and Butterfly Garden They offer a picnic spot, restaurant and a playground.

Wallmannsthal. Contact: 012 544 0144, melani.hugo@gmail.com or visit ludwigsroses.co.za Mobile Animal Farm They come to your venue with a miniature horse, bunnies, goats and lambs and provide entertainment for one-and-a-half hours. Contact: 012 666 8604, 084 512 4931, wccahill@gmail.com or visit childrensfarm.co.za Mobile Zoo Interactive 1–2 hour sessions with a wide selection of special and exotic animals and creatures at your venue or theirs. Contact: 083 299 6900, info@ mobilezoo.co.za or visit mobilezoo.co.za National Zoological Gardens Offering two party venues as well as picnic sites and the zoo provides tailor-made party packs. Contact: 012 328 3265, info@nzg. ac.za or visit nzg.ac.za Pony Parties (Capriole Stables) They have lawns, a swimming pool, a jungle gym and supply tables, linen and cutlery.

Randjiesfontein. Contact: 011 238 7132 or equineiq@mweb.co.za

Predator World Party venue with piñatas, treasure hunts, party boxes, reptile demos, animal interaction, photos, kettie shooting and goat feeding. Sun City. Contact: 076 817 6869, info@predatorworld.co.za or visit predatorworld.co.za Rhino and Lion Park Jumping castles, trampolines, a zip slide, jungle gyms, mazes, swings, rope climbing, a suspended net and a large grassy area to play on.

Kromdraai. Contact: 011 957 0347/49, trs@ iafrica.com or visit rhinolion.co.za SA Lion Park Children can play with the lion cubs, feed the tame resident giraffe and go on a game drive. Lanseria.

Contact: 011 691 9905, info@lionpark. com or visit lionpark.com Varkie Vang A children’s farmyard and playpark that offers animals to pet and feed, and various playground equipment.

Contact: 084 384 7110, info@varkievang. co.za or visit varkievang.co.za Wild and Earthly They offer an educational animal show for older children and a mobile petting zoo for all ages. Contact: 084 550 0120, lisa@wildandearthly.co.za or visit wildandearthly.co.za Willow Feather Farm A spacious venue for 50 children. They arrange balloons and animal feed for the farmyard. Picnic baskets, platters and party packs can be arranged. Doornkloof. Contact: 076 070 7015, promise@willowfeather.co.za or visit willowfeatherfarm.co.za

art and craft parties Artee Craftee Children go to their home studio for a fun craft hour.

Centurion. Contact: 082 782 9294 or visit arteecraftee.co.za Bambury Stocks a range of sticky mosaics to create and decorate. Nationwide.

Contact: 083 680 5976, nikiw@bambury. co.za or visit bambury.co.za Beadworx Activities vary from making bracelets, cellphone and bag accessories to key rings, mobiles and wine-glass markers. Contact: 083 479 5527 or soul.worx@yahoo.com Buddy Bear Choose the animal or bear from the varied selection, then stuff it, add a heart and give it a voice. Nationwide.

Contact: 031 764 2383, leanne@ buddybear.co.za or visit buddybear.co.za Cool Kidz | Crafty Kidz Each child gets a pack with all the necessary tools and crafts. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 079 873 0546, info@coolkidz.co.za or visit coolkidz.co.za Crafts for Kids A selection of crafts and party favours. Nationwide delivery. Contact: 083 293 7208, sales@craftsforkids.co.za or visit craftsforkids.co.za Crafty Corner They come to your venue and entertain the children with a variety of age- and gender-appropriate crafts. Contact: 011 782 0351, admin@ craftycorner.co.za or visit craftycorner.co.za Kidz Only They supply sand art.

Home kits for your own sand art party.

R200; gift packs and single card packs from R12. Nationwide. Contact: 083 453 4032, admin@kidzonly.co.za or visit kidzonly.co.za May 2013

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resource Mixed Media Art Parties An environment where children express themselves creatively. The Wilgers. Contact: 083 662 8176, loadsofideas@gmail.com or visit karoolifestyle.co.za Perler Beads A fun craft activity.

Nationwide delivery. 082 856 8140, info@ perlerbeads.co.za or visit perlerbeads.co.za Soul Space Choose between various crafts or enjoy a puppet party or a Mad Hatters Tea party. Brooklyn. Contact: 074 118 9184, myspace@sobinn.co.za or visit mysoulspace.co.za

cakes and catering Bon Bons Kitchen For freshly baked cakes from chocolate truffle to red velvet cakes and themed cakes. Contact: 079 264 4643, info@bonbonskitchen.co.za or visit bonbonskitchen.co.za Cake Studio Offers a variety of character cakes in 3D and 2D. Contact: 012 997 4530, 082 331 9237, sugarshop@ telkomsa.net or visit cakestudio.co.za Centurion Ice Cream and Sweets They supply a variety of ice creams to the public at wholesale prices.

Hennopspark. Contact: 012 654 2420, charles@centurionicecream.co.za or visit centurionicecream.co.za Coffeespoonz & Afternoons Frozen muffin, crumpet, waffle, pancake, cupcake, brownie and biscuit batters.

Simply defrost, snip, pour and bake.

Nationwide delivery. Contact: 011 849 4273, 079 825 1012, coffeespoonz@ telkomsa.net or visit muffin-batters.co.za Daisy Cakes Novelty cakes, themed cupcakes and biscuits, cake pops, coconut ice pops made to your requirements. Contact: 072 112 3999 or daisycakespta@gmail.com Delite Foods Offers sugar-free, low-fat sweets, jellies, biscuits and chocolate drinks. Nationwide. Contact: 021 702 0721/2, info@delitefoods.co.za or visit delitefoods.co.za Designer Bites They take care of your party from start to finish. They do decor, catering, cakes and everything else.

Centurion and Hartbeespoort. Contact: 011 022 4575, info@designerbites.co.za or visit designerbites.co.za DLish For novelty and specialised cakes and catering. Contact: 082 378 5677, 082 940 6812, graeme@dlish.co.za or visit dlish.co.za Donut Cakes They supply a variety of donuts and confectionery including cakes.

Centurion Mall. Contact: 012 663 7576 or madeleine@donutcakes.co.za Kauai Wholesome food available in large enough quantities for a party of any size.

Nationwide. Contact: 021 552 0222 or visit kauai.co.za Lulu’s Cakes They specialise in printed cakes, party packs, cupcakes and cake tin hire. Contact: 012 804 2565, 073 887 1881, info@lulucakes.co.za or visit lulucakes.co.za Made with Love She creates a range of cakes and cupcakes at affordable prices. Centurion. Contact: 082 920 8605, ronelle@galileobook.co.za or visit ronellescupcakes.blogspot.com

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Sandwich Baron They offer an assortment of platters. Nationwide.

Contact: 011 907 6237 or visit sandwichbaron.co.za The Bread Basket Customised cakes and platters. Contact: 012 992 6030 or reception@breadbasket.co.za The Wacky Cake Heaven For cakes and cupcakes made to your instructions, from shaped cakes to fondant covered cakes.

Centurion. Contact: 079 989 1418 or angelique@thewackycakeheaven.com Vee’s Cakes and Biscuits They do birthday cakes, children’s party planning, printing of edible pictures and assorted biscuits and chocolates. They also have decor options. Moreleta Park. Contact: 076 223 8612, info@veescakes.co.za or visit veescakes.co.za

cooking parties Choc Delite Children learn the art of chocolate moulding and they get to take home their creation. Contact: 083 554 6041 or moneera@mtn.blackberry.com Fun Foodies They come to your chosen venue with recipes and all the necessary equipment. Children dress up as chefs while cooking. Contact: 082 214 5271, funfoodies@mweb.co.za or visit funfoodies.co.za Little Cooks Club New cooking themed parties incorporating team challenges and mystery baskets as well as their “Spade to Spatula” cooking programme and parties for children under 7 years old. For more info: visit littlcooksclub.co.za Snyman Sjokolateur Children ages 8–13 years spend a Saturday morning in the chocolate factory where they build their own chocolate pizza to take home. Bring own eats and drinks. Waterkloof Ridge.

Contact: 012 347 8497, 074 140 1087 or visit snymanchocolates.com Tots n Pots Offers baking parties. Various packages are available. Nationwide. 082 903 3367, angie@totsnpots.com or visit totsnpots.co.za

educational parties Experilab Scientists entertain and enrich children with bubbling solutions, lava motion, flaming balloons, slime and more. Faerie Glen. Contact: 012 361 1134, info@experilab.co.za or visit experilab.co.za Science and Creepy Crawly parties Children can observe six science experiments and conduct three of their own. For children 4–12 years old. Contact: 073 260 5371 or kjiekjie@gmail.com Toby Tower The range consists of creative activities, stickers and wall decor for gifts, party favours or party edutainment.

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

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

Nationwide. Contact: 083 354 872 or aalwynd@vodamail.co.za magazine pretoria

AfrodizzyActs Entertainment company with performers. Contact: 082 087 5748, afrodizzyacts@hotmail.com or visit their Facebook page.

Andy’s Action Parties Action birthday entertainment for children from the age of 6. Themes include Army, Survivor, Fear Factor and Amazing Race arranged at your venue. Contact: 082 381 1051, bronwyn@ aaparty.co.za or visit aaparty.co.za Blue Flame Events They offer entertainment and rent out jumping castles and costumes. Contact: 072 599 2288, info@bflame.co.za or visit bflame.co.za Carnival Games They hire out carnival games with stands and operators.

Contact: 012 661 2119, 082 979 1534, book@kulkuns.co.za or visit carnivalgames.co.za Clamber Club They come to your chosen venue with equipment to clamber and climb on and entertainers to keep the children busy. Nationwide. Contact: 011 325 2031, headoffice@clamberclub.com or visit clamberclub.com Creative Faces Professional artists do face painting, body painting, airbrush tattoos, glitter tattoos, henna/Mehndi tattoos and hair art. Contact: 073 631 0578, info@creativefaces.co.za or visit creativefaces.co.za Faces 4 U They have professional artists that come to your party and paint faces. Contact: 071 863 4436, facesforu@gmail.com or visit faces4u. blogspot.com GameVan This is a high-tech mobile gaming (XBox, Wii, PlayStation) theatre ideal for children 8 years and older. Centurion and Pretoria East. Contact: 071 869 7753, info@ gamevan.co.za or visit gamevan.co.za Karakter Skatkis They offer face painting, UV body painting, balloon sculpting, a mascot character act, pamper parties, art parties, creative recycling parties, paint-a-mural parties, ballet parties and recording parties. Contact: 082 575 1371 or bernicehurter@gmail.com Kulkuns Kapperjolle Magicians that perform a show with illusions and comedy. Contact: 021 661 2119, 082 979 1534, book@kulkuns.co.za or visit kulkuns.co.za Miles of Smiles Supplies entertainment with clowns, face painters, stilt walkers, puppets, dance shows and more.

Contact: 011 791 1920, 072 143 4003, chris@milesofsmilesonline.com or visit milesofsmilesentertainment.co.za Misspixi They come to your venue and hold an hour-long modelling photo shoot with your guests. Contact: 082 375 5025 or visit misspixi.com Mr and Mrs Sparkles They entertain with balloon sculpting, face painting, magic, stilt walking and games. They also have a country music routine.

Silverton. Contact: 012 804 7367, info@focusonaction.co.za or visit focusonaction.co.za Never Grow Up! Arranges face painting, balloon sculpting, party games, handmade party decor, fun photo backdrops and more. Contact: 083 780 0757, monique.naude@nevergrowup.co.za or visit nevergrowup.co.za magazine pretoria

Photobooth Inc. Package includes unlimited photos printed out instantly, an operator, duplicate prints, use of the props and a DVD. Nationwide. Contact: 083 377 9449, rob@photoboothinc.co.za or visit photoboothinc.co.za Puppets and More Professional puppet shows using large, colourful puppets incorporating ventriloquism, music, drama and tricks. Contact: 082 293 6097, parkersofbluehills@worldonline.co.za or visit puppetsandmore.co.za Puppet World Interactive puppet shows with music, lighting and characters. Contact: 012 991 7644, marie@puppetworld.co.za or visit puppetworld.co.za Remember Me For face painting and temporary airbrushed tattoos at your venue.

Novelty birthday cakes and cupcakes also on offer. Kyalami. Contact: 083 305 1237 or cdedmondson@gmail.com.

The Enchanted Castle They do themed parties with entertainers specialising in fairy tales. Nationwide.

Contact: 072 569 9332, 082 857 8451, info@enchantedcastle.co.za or visit enchantedcastle.co.za The Incredible Dog Show A world class dog show, which can be presented in English, Afrikaans or bilingually. Contact: 084 500 0415, lloyd@dogzcool.co.za or visit dogzcool.com Whimsical Parties Offers entertainment with Disney characters, fun activities, games and prizes. They also organise pamper, craft and themed parties, and supply decor and catering. Contact: 071 444 0953, whimsicalparties@gmail.com or visit awishawaywhimsical.blogspot.com

fancy dress hire Act Up Costume Hire They rent out costumes in various themes. They can also provide entertainment with themed costumes and storytelling. Contact: 074 110 0145, info@actstudios.co.za or visit actstudios.co.za Costume World Fancy-dress, costume hire, party costumes as well as accessories and wigs. Les Marais.

Contact: 012 751 1732, costumeworldsa@ hotmail.com or visit costumeworld.co.za Creative Costumes They have a wide variety of costumes, accessories, masks and wigs. Online or store service.

Centurion and Lynnwood Glen. Contact: 012 663 6229, support@creativecostumes. co.za or visit creativecostumes.co.za Jules Costume Hire Importer, wholesaler and retailer of carnival and theatrical goods. Hatfield. Contact: 012 362 4691 or visit julescostumehire.co.za Scrooge and Marley’s They specialise in fancy-dress costumes and party lights.

They also stock candyfloss, popcorn and slush puppie machines, table cloths and chair covers, red carpets, barrier poles and more and they sell ballet and dancing gear. Centurion. Contact: 084 804 0490 or tshwaneyouththeatre@gmail.com Sweet ’n Sassy Creators of party dresses, tutus, hair accessories and more. Design your own tutu online. Contact: 082 878 7544, lesley@sweetnsassy.co.za or visit tutus.co.za May 2013

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indoor and outdoor parties Cedar Junction Theme Park They have four venues overlooking the lake. They plan your party for you and mini train rides are included. Contact: 012 811 1183, jicon@ absamail.co.za or visit cedarjunction.co.za Col’Cacchio Pizzeria A family-friendly restaurant that offers optional indoor and outdoor play areas. Visit colcacchio.co.za for your nearest branch.

Cradle to Crayons They offer a jumping castle, cutlery and crockery, tables, chairs, a sandpit, an enclosed area and a gazebo. They can do full party planning with cake, party packs and more.

Silverlakes. Contact: 012 809 0475, 082 613 9426, ctcrayons@gmail.com or visit cradletocrayons.co.za Deli on Duncan Kids Yard They can set up the party with themes and catering options. There is a jungle gym and Beetle to play in. Hatfield. Contact: 076 275 2493 or visit duncanyard.co.za Farmyard Adventures They organise the party packs, cake, catering and decorate the venue. Children can go on pony rides, feed the animals, play on the jumping castles, swings, slides, jungle gyms and in the sandpit. Centurion. Contact: 082 743 3107 or steelfocus@cgsecure.co.za Isiphiwo Boutique Hotel There is a playground with a jungle gym, bikes, sandpit and lawn. They provide cupcakes,

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balloon decor, party packs, themed decor, a jumping castle, a face painter and more.

Derdepoort and Pretoria North. Contact: 012 808 2328 or info@isiphiwo.co.za Jingle Jangle Tea Garden Parties set within a tea-garden venue. Play equipment and petting zoo available. Moreleta Park.

Contact: 012 997 0134, jinglejangle@ vodamail.co.za or visit jinglejangle.co.za Jolly Tots Corner A venue that plans the party for you, organises the theme, the party packs, cakes, entertainment, balloons and does the catering. Wierdapark. Contact: 082 677 3809 or jollytots@mweb.co.za Kinderland Party Venue Indoor and outdoor facilities, which include three private party venues. Offers themed parties, self-catering and catering options, a trampoline, sandpit and jungle gym, children’s motorbike track, doll’s house and children can feed the rabbits. Pretoria East.

Contact: 082 680 1368, annalizelouw@ hotmail.com or visit kinderlandpv.co.za Laser Tag Extreme Laser tag games at your venue. You can play indoors or outdoors, during the day or at night. Contact: 084 542 8689, info@lasertagextreme.co.za or visit swatlasertag.co.za Lavender Moon Animal Farm They offer the venue and organise the entire party.

Children can go on pony rides and feed animals. Craft parties for older children.

Montana. Contact: 012 548 2826 or info@lavendermoon.net

Rocky Ridge Estate Party Venue A self-catering venue with options of renting a lapa or the fantasy mini town.

Kameeldrift. Contact: 082 566 6360, heidi@rockyridgeestate.co.za or visit rockyridgeestate.co.za Safari Restaurant They offer pony parties, entertainment, an animal farm with a jungle gym and catering. The Willows. Contact: 0860 723 274, info@safarirestaurant.co.za or visit safarirestaurant.co.za Shokran A venue that can do the catering and set up themed parties. Weekdays only.

Pretoria East. Contact: 082 335 5659, info@ shokran.co.za or visit shokran.co.za

indoor parties Climbing Barn They offer their facilities where the children and adults, can enjoy bouldering in the cave in the capable hands of trained staff. Pretoria East. Contact: 082 335 3220 or visit climbingbarn.co.za Mungolistix An indoor playpark with a coffee shop and party venue. The cost includes one hour and 45 minutes of playtime, a snacks partybox and basic decor applies. Centurion. Contact: 012 663 2798, info@mungolistix.co.za or visit mungolistix.co.za Spur Steak Ranches Each child gets a selected meal, soda, ice cream and surprise. Enquire about cake. Nationwide.

Contact: 0860 00 7787 or visit spur.co.za

music parties Drumkidz Children drum to stories, songs and games.

The birthday child receives a gift. Centurion. Contact: 021 434 7610, info@drumkidz.co.za or visit drumkidz.co.za

outdoor parties 19th Hole Putt-Putt They offer putt putt, a jungle gym and a mini town with eats from the Waffle Place. Pretoria East.

Contact: 082 463 2029, martieroux@yahoo. com or visit onestopentertainment.co.za AcroBranch There are four courses and they cater for a maximum of 20 children.

Bring your own eats and they’ll provide the table. Centurion. Contact: 072 957 5429, redbarn@acrobranch.co.za or visit acrobranch.co.za Adventure ’n Beyond Select a package deal with activities such as an inflatable gladiator track or air riflers. Krugersdorp.

Contact: 083 449 9819, info@anb.co.za or visit anb.co.za Attitude Paintball They have jumping castles, jungle gyms, a swimming pool and an entertainment area. Contact: 082 496 2016, ritchie@attitudepaintball.info or visit attitudepaintball.info Bydi Bos They supply the venue and do the catering. Entertainment includes mini cycle tracks, a petting zoo, tree house and foefie slide. Donkerhoek. Contact: 072 299 9377 or visit bydibos.co.za

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C’est la Vie They have four venues with a designated waitron for children’s parties.

They organise the decorations, party packs, cake, entertainment and snacks for parents. Centurion. Contact: 012 654 0220, 082 491 6000 or partyclv@gmail.com Dipsy Dots Offers a party venue with a lapa, play area, jungle gym, sandpit and plastic motorbikes. They organise your themed party. Centurion. Contact: 012 654 1876, 083 518 2132, admin@ dipsydots.co.za or visit dipsydots.co.za Faerie Folk Pretoria They have a garden as the setting where entertainers engage children in dress-up, face painting, games, music and dancing. Catering options for adults and children. They also send out entertainers to your venue. Brooklyn.

Contact: 012 460 6894, faeries@faeriefolk. co.za or visit faeriefolk.co.za Farm Inn They offer game drives, a jumping castle, pony rides, a farmyard, jungle gym and lion and tiger cubs when available. Catering is included. Menlyn.

Contact: 012 809 0266, farminn@farminn. co.za or visit farminn.co.za Forest Fun They offer pony rides, tractor trailer rides, jumping castles, jungle gyms, swings, roundabouts, a sandpit and pushbike track. Treehouses and extras such as foefie slide rides, water slides, clowns, magicians and go-carts can be arranged. Tierpoort, Pretoria East. Contact: 012 460 7373, 082 336 0893, forestfun@ vodamail.co.za or visit dumpy.co.za

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Furrow Lane Hotel A play area with a jumping castle and a swimming pool.

Catering or self-catering. Hatfield. Contact: 012 807 7535 or visit furrowlanehotel.co.za Giggles and Glamour Themed parties set within Villa San Giovanni. The package includes decor, a jumping castle and table settings. Various catering options available.

Wonderboom. Contact: 012 543 0843 or visit gigglesandglamour.co.za Gotcha Paintball Price includes paintball guns, jackets, masks and balls. Contact: 086 146 8242 or visit gotchapaintball.co.za Kidz Galore They offer various themed parties including boot camp. Tiegerspoort.

Contact: 083 657 8921, kidzgalore@ webmail.co.za or visit kidzgalore.co.za Little Wonderland A large lapa hosts the party. The playground has a jungle gym, two trampolines, a jumping castle and scooters with a track. Midrand. Contact: 082 955 4323 or visit littlewonderland.co.za Moo Zoo Pre Primary School They rent out their school and play equipment over weekends. Irene. Contact: 012 667 2638 or visserliz@mweb.co.za Parties @ Celtiskids Hire the venue on Saturdays for 5 hours. They supply tables, chairs and the playground and you bring your own catering. Contact: 072 601 3254, info@celtiskids.co.za or visit celtiskids.co.za Picnics for Pixies Choose from a variety of menus, decor and entertainment. Contact: 083 579 3689, pretoria@dialapicnic.co.za or visit picnicsforpixies.co.za

Survive or Race The Adventure Take part in Survivor or Amazing Race. Pelindaba.

Contact: 082 895 2513, admin@surviveorrace. co.za or visit surviveorrace.co.za Swat Laser Tag parties For children 7 years and older. Play at one of their venues or your choice of venue. Contact: 074 188 8777 or visit swatlasertag.co.za The Big Red Barn This venue has an Acrobranch, mountain biking and a wooden pirate ship. Centurion. Contact: 078 343 6939 or bookings@thebigredbarn.co.za The Cow Shed Tea Garden A tea garden with a venue where children can view cattle, a pot-bellied pig and take pony rides and enjoy outdoor games. Braai facilities available. Pretoria East. Contact: 082 901 9729 or jason@wildways.co.za The Party Yard Venue with braai facilities, a mini train and play area. Centurion. Contact: 071 419 8008, betsyrabie@mweb.co.za or visit kid-e-up.co.za Wild Cave Adventures Children from 8 years old and up can get dressed in overalls and mining helmets and explore an underground cave. Cradle of Humankind. Contact: 082 486 2464, info@ wildcaves.co.za or visit wildcaves.co.za Zwartkops Quad Centre They offer the party venue with a playground, plan the party and children can go on quad bike rides. You can also just hire the venue and bring your own catering.

Zwartkops. Contact: 012 323 1932 or visit quadrides.co.za

pamper parties Aurora Day Spa Parties for 2–6 girls with treatments such as mini facials, manis, pedis and massages. Face mask workshops and virgin cocktails are included and party packs can be organised. Contact: 082 593 6697 or nicole@auroradayspa.co.za Carlswald Health & Skincare They do pamper parties for girls from the age of 7 at your venue or theirs. Halfway House.

Contact: 011 312 0833, 084 505 3970 or bridgetkoekemoer@gmail.com Journey2Joy Parties They offer a variety of themed parties with their focus on pamper parties. Moreleta Park. Contact: 071 885 6189, laurakim@journey2joy. co.za or visit journey2joy.co.za Pro Brush Princess Pamper Parties Girls from age four to 11 get a pedicure, mini manicure, hairdressing and light make-up done. Contact: 012 654 4673 or info@probrush.co.za

party planners ABC Jumping Castle and Theme Parties They organise everything you need for a themed birthday party.

Services include delivery, setup and collection. Contact: 083 724 7714 or visit abcjumpingcastles.co.za Blissful Parties They specialise in children’s themed parties, providing

May 2013

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resource decor and accessories. Party invitations can be customised. They set up and collect. Contact: 084 530 6437, info@blissfulparties.co.za or visit blissfulparties.co.za BT2 Kids Parties They supply furniture and accessories, party packs, a jumping castle, balloons, banners, a photo board and themed cups and plates. They also offer catering and entertainment. They travel to your venue and set up. Contact: 084 253 3530 or info@bt2kiddies.co.za Bubble Ball You can walk, run, dive, and roll on water without getting wet. Contact: 082 694 6173, bubbleball@yebo.co.za or visit bubbleball.co.za CreateSumMore Crafts brought to your home. Choose an activity such as icing a cookie, mosaic, canvas art, beading and more. Contact: 078 208 0631, createsummore@gmail.com or visit createsummore.co.za Decadent Functions They set up and collect all the decor on the day of the party. Contact: 012 996 1516, 082 330 8933 or woelwater@mweb.co.za Enchanted Kiddies Parties They organise themed parties and supply entertainers. Pretoria East. Contact: 072 569 9332, info@enchantedcastle.co.za or visit enchantedcastle.co.za Fairy Time They specialise in themed parties and have added a pirate and a tea party. Contact: 083 258 3250, caroline@ fairytime.co.za or visit fairytime.co.za

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May 2013

Kiddabella They organise the cake, chairs and themed decor. They deliver and set up themed parties. Contact: 072 384 0580, candice@kiddabella.com or visit kiddabella.wozaonline.co.za Kids Party Stuff Organises all the food and fun from inflatable structures, face painters and photographers to pony rides, drumming and the cake. Contact: 083 409 8003, info@kidspartystuff.co.za or visit kidspartystuff.co.za Laughing Ladybird Parties They organise parties with complete party planning and everything supplied. Pretoria and surrounds. Contact: 084 589 8885, party@laughingladybird.co.za or visit laughingladybird.co.za Monkey Magic Kiddie Parties They specialise in the planning and setting up themed children’s parties. They deliver and set up the themed decor at your venue and arrange sweets, cake, helium balloons, photo boards, piñatas, jumping castles, water slides, entertainment, supervision and games. Contact: 083 658 0218, quotes@monkeymagic.co.za or visit monkeymagic.co.za Party Shop They provide and organise invitations, balloon decor, cakes, custom party banners, tableware, entertainment, the venue and catering. Lynnwood Glen.

Contact: 012 348 9600, sales@partyshop. co.za or visit partyshop.co.za Pick & Party Hire decor for a themed party. Choose from table decor, tables,

chairs, linen, cups, plates, theme boards, table runners and more. Moreleta Park.

Contact: 082 847 0921, pickandparty@ gmail.com or visit pickandparty.co.za Planet Party and Events Choose a theme and they supply invitations, catering, party packs, decor, tables, chairs, birthday banners, flags, photo boards and accessories. Contact: 083 446 7696, sammy.planetparty@gmail.com or visit planetparty.co.za Supakids Children’s Parties Offers various options to custom-design your child’s party. They source a venue or come to yours and supply the decor, food and entertainment. Contact: info@ supakids.co.za or visit supakids.co.za Twinz Kiddies Party They specialise in the planning and setting up of themed children’s parties, jumping castle hire, mascots, themed 3D cakes, invitations, and table and chair hire. Contact: 082 501 8367, info@twinzkiddiesparty.co.za or visit twinzkiddiesparty.co.za Wonder Kids Parties Party planners with over 52 themes for you to choose from or they customise to your requirements. Contact: 072 997 5298, info@wonderparties.co.za or visit wonderparties.co.za Zesty Zelebrations They organise the party, from invitations, themed decor, furniture, the cake, entertainment and more. Garsfontein. Contact: 072 567 7329 or zelebrations@gmail.com

sport parties Action Sports Offers a combination of two sports: netball and soccer. All equipment and an umpire provided for children 5 years and older. Contact: 0861 122 8466, info@actionsports.co.za or visit actionsports.co.za AdrenalinX Adventure Park Children 10 years and older can play with laser and air guns, the slip-and-slide and paintball.

There is a boma and barn for set up.

Braai facilities are available. Pretoria East.

Contact: 073 271 3936, info@adrenalinx. co.za or visit adrenalinx.co.za K1 Racing An indoor go-carting track where children can take part in endurance or Grand Prix races. Montana Park.

Contact: 082 929 0411, success4u-2@ absamail.co.za or visit k1racing.co.za Let’s go Bowling Parties for children 6 years and older. A package includes a game of bowling, a burger and party packs.

Cake is optional. Centurion. Contact: 012 661 5524, eco@letsgobowling.co.za or visit letsgobowling.co.za Little Kickers Football related activities and games suitable for children from preschool to 8 years old. Centurion and Hatfield. Contact: 0861 088 888, admin@ littlekickers.co.za or visit littlekickers.co.za Quatro Bungy Kids They offer waterballs, inflatables, climbing walls, paint ball tunnels and pedal go-carts. Contact: 082 581 8715 or quatro.bungy@yahoo.com

magazine pretoria

books

a good read for toddlers

for preschoolers

for early graders

Dinosaur Zoom!

By Penny Dale

The Herd Boy

By Niki Daly

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

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

Again!

By Emily Gravett

best bedt ime story

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

This is a typically clever and irresistible book by a star talent for youngsters.

for preteens and teens

Huberta’s Journey

By Cicely van Straten and Melany Pietersen (Published by Tafelberg Publishers, R110) This is a fictionalised account of the story of Huberta the hippopotamus, one of the most famous animals in South African history. In November 1928, Huberta left her waterhole in the St Lucia Estuary and set off on a 1 600km, three-year journey to the Eastern Cape. In that time Huberta became a minor celebrity and attracted crowds wherever she went. She was initially thought to be a male and was nicknamed Hubert by the press. Despite her having been declared Royal Game (and thus protected) by the Natal Provincial Council, she was eventually shot by hunters.

for us

White Dolphin

By Gill Lewis

The Chef

By Martin Suter

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

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

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

a cine m story

atic

(Published by Atlantic Books, R192) As the financial crisis tightens its grip on Europe, the gilded world of Zurich’s leading restaurant, Chez Huwyler, seems immune to plunging stock markets. But even haute cuisine is feeling the bite and so Maravan, a Tamil dishwasher and undiscovered culinary genius, and Andrea, a beautiful waitress, find themselves out of a job. After Maravan seduces Andrea with a meal made in heaven, she hits upon an idea: romantic catering for couples. But when their new company begins to struggle, they are forced to enter into an unsavoury business, plunging them into an underworld where murder and sex feed otherwise unquenchable thirsts.

parenting books If I have to tell you one more time…

By Amy McCready (Published by Jeremy P. Tarcher, R293) Why is it so difficult sometimes to get children to listen?

You ask your child to get ready for school or bedtime.

You know she heard you, but she ignores you. You ask again and still... no response. You’ve tried everything – time-outs, nagging, counting to three – and nothing seems to work. In this book, founder of the popular online parenting course Positive Parenting Solutions presents a nag- and scream-free programme for compassionately, yet effectively, correcting your children’s bad behaviour.

She shows parents how an understanding of Adlerian psychology can put an end to power struggles. Adlerian psychology focuses on the idea that humans have a basic need to feel powerful, with children being no exception to the rule.

magazine pretoria

The Essential Guide to Bullying – Prevention and Intervention

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

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calendar

what’s on in may

You can also access the calendar online at

childmag.co.za

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

Compiled by SIMONE JEFFERY.

31 fri

special events

31

FUN for children

31

only for parents

32

bump, baby & tot in tow

33

how to help

33

SPECIAL EVENTS

FUN FOR CHILDREN

Game reserve fun Dress up in period costumes and pose for a few photos in between the ox wagons and enjoy a one-hour game drive at Askari Game Lodge.

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May 2013

ONLY FOR PARENTS

Cultivino Grab your tasting glass and coupon booklet and enjoy the signature wines on offer at the tasting festival.

bump, baby & tot in tow

how to help

Crazi Cow A quiet place for children to rough and tumble in the sand as you enjoy a cup of coffee and a light meal.

Veggie gardens for charity Volunteer your time to help create vegetable gardens and teach children in impoverished rural areas how to grow their own produce.

magazine pretoria

PHOTOGRAPHS: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM / Bram Lammers

The MTN Bushfire Festival This is a three-day music and arts festival that promotes creative expression and social responsibility.

SPECIAL EVENTS 1 wednesday Worker’s Day Go dressed up as your future dream career or favourite character and stand a chance to win great prizes. Picnic hampers are available to order. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Cedar Junction Theme Park, plot 404, Graham Rd, Zwavelpoort. Cost: R20 entry. Contact: 012 811 1183, jicon@absamail.co.za or visit cedarjunction.co.za

2 thursday ASG Night Rider MTB Series Enter a fun mountain bike race held at night.

Children can compete in the 5km race, while the adult’s race is 21km. There is a sandpit, jungle gym and trampoline.

Space is limited. For children 5 years and older. Time: 6pm; the main race starts 8pm. Venue: Rosemary Hill, N4 East, exit 18, plot 257 Mooiplaats, Boschkop. Cost: adults R120, children R30. Contact: karla@ asgworld.co.za or visit asgevents.co.za

4 saturday Tswaing Crater Visit the Tswaing meteorite impact crater and surrounding wetland and learn more about geology and ecology with Sanparks honorary rangers Ella and John Roberts. Take a picnic basket for after the walk. There are braai facilities. Time: 8:30am. Venue: meet at the Tswaing Crater Visitor Centre, Soutpan Rd, Soshanguve. Cost: tbc. Contact: 082 093 7826 or 083 793 3019 Walk for cystic fibrosis A 1km or 5km fun walk to raise funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis. Take a picnic basket to enjoy it in the garden afterwards. Time: 6:15am–9am. Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria. Cost: adults R70, children R20.

Contact: 012 843 5172/3 or visit sanbi.org

10 friday Sheepdog trials Take chairs, blankets, umbrellas and refreshments for a relaxing day in the countryside watching the South African Sheepdog Association (Sasda) sheepdog trials. These hounds impress with their intelligence, focus and dedication as they round up herds of sheep. Also 11 May. Time: 8:30am. Venue: Borderbrook Farm, Avianto Rd, Muldersdrift. Cost: adults R30, pensioners and children R15, children under 7 free. Contact: 082 441 9646, emjammy@gmail.com or visit sasda.za.net

11 saturday Tshwane Medieval Fayre Step back in time and wander through the medieval village with its displays of olden day crafts, cheer on the highland and fire dancers, and watch the knights of yore display their medieval weaponry skills during armoured fighting. Ends 12 May. Time: 9am–6pm.

Venue: FH Odendaal High School, cnr Baviaanspoort Rd and Moepel St, Silverton.

Cost: adults R40, children R20. Contact: 012 800 1141 or visit fhodendaal.co.za

12 sunday Moms, music and miniature trains Celebrate Mother’s Day by ordering a picnic hamper and making your way to the theme park for a relaxing afternoon of live music, miniature trains and paddle boats. Time: 9am–4pm. Venue: Cedar Junction Theme Park, plot 404, Graham Rd, Zwavelpoort. Cost: R20 entry. Contact: 012 811 1183, jicon@absamail.co.za or visit cedarjunction.co.za

16 thursday The Baby Expo The expo looks after all your parenting needs, from the latest products to outstanding services and advice from the experts. There are play areas and the everpopular Barney shows are available for the little ones, as well as educational talks and seminars for parents and expectant parents.

Ends 19 May. Time: 9am–6pm. Venue: Coca-Cola Dome, cnr Northumberland Rd and Olievenhout Ave, Northriding. Cost: adults R65, pensioners R50, children under 10 free. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit mamamagic.co.za

18 saturday Hartebeesthoek Radio Astronomy Take a tour of this working observatory and learn more about radio astronomy and the space geodesy research currently being conducted there. Space is limited.

Time: 4pm–8pm. Venue: HartRAO, farm 502 JQ Hartebeesthoek, Broedestroom Rd, Krugersdorp. Cost: adults R45, students and pensioners R35, preschool children free. Contact: 012 301 3100, info@hartrao. ac.za or visit hartrao.ac.za Zoo fun walk Enjoy an early 5km walk around a few of the animal enclosures inside the zoo. Babies in prams are welcome.

Time: registration 6am; start 6:30am. Venue: National Zoological Gardens, 232 Boom St. Cost: adults R40, children R25. Contact Lettie: 012 323 0294, info@friendsofthezoo. co.za or visit nzg.ac.za

19 sunday May Day Training Show This horse show is open to all competitors in dressage and showjumping. Time: 9am. Venue: Mazz Vaulting and Riding Club, 150 Tulip Rd, Mnandi, Centurion. Cost: free for spectators. Contact: 083 602 2713, shows@centurionhorseriding.co.za or visit centurionhorseriding.co.za

31 friday

10 May – Sheepdog trials

magazine pretoria

The MTN Bushfire Festival This is a threeday music and arts festival that promotes creative expression and social responsibility.

There is a family programme and Kidzone

Mother’s Day Diamond Express Board the steam train and spend the day wandering around the cafés and restaurants and down the oak-lined avenue of the quaint mining town of Cullinan. Time: 8:30am. Venue: departs from Hermanstad Railway Station, Michaelson St. Cost: adults R200, pensioners R175, children R100–R150.

Contact: 082 098 6186, sales@ friendsoftherail.com or visit friendsoftherail.com

that includes workshops, storytelling, fairground rides, farm animals and more.

All the proceeds raised from the festival are donated to charity. Ends 2 June. Time: all day. Venue: Malkerns Valley, Swaziland.

Cost: day ticket: adults R200, children R50; festival pass: adults R450, children R150. For more info: visit bush-fire.com Taste the Mountain The Magaliesberg Citrus Festival is a weekend of delicious food, flea-market stalls, various performing artists and sporting activities. You are able to taste unpreserved Magalies citrus juice and the famous Citrus Mampoer. Ends 2 June. Time: varies. Venue: ATKV Buffelspoort Resort, R104 to Rustenburg, Buffelspoort.

Cost: R80–R150. Contact: 014 572 3533, 083 808 8355 or visit proedieberg.co.za Tekkie Tax Buy your sticker and wear your funkiest tekkies to school or work. Your R10 donation goes to the beneficiary of your choice: animals, basic community welfare, children, disabilities and education.

Cost: R10 for a sticker. Contact: 012 663 8181, tekkietax@mweb.co.za or visit tekkietax.co.za

FUN FOR CHILDREN art, culture and science Artful landscapes View an exhibition of natural scenery, arranged into a coherent composition. The works of art come from the museum’s permanent collection.

2 April–28 May. Time: 10am–5pm, Tuesday–Saturday. Venue: East Gallery at the Pretoria Art Museum, cnr Francis Baard St and Wessels St, Arcadia Park, Arcadia.

Cost: adults R20, pensioners and students R10, learners R5. Contact: 012 344 1807, art.museum @tshwane.gov.za or visit pretoriaartmuseum.co.za Body Worlds: The Cycle of Life Change the way you see yourself at the first anatomical exhibition of its kind to display real human bodies. Ends 30 June.

Time: 9am–6:30pm, daily. Venue: Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, cnr Miriam Makeba St and President St, Newtown. Cost: adults R140, seniors and students R110, children R90, family ticket (two adults with two children) R400. Contact: 071 547 5558 or visit bodyworlds.co.za Children’s art festival Artworks created by talented young artists from preschool through to Grade 12 are on display throughout the mall. 22 April–

12 sun

5 May. Time: 9am–7pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–6pm, Saturday; 9am–5pm, Sunday.

Venue: The Grove Mall, cnr Lynnwood Rd and Simon Vermooten Rd, Pretoria East.

Cost: free entry. Contact: 084 585 8494 or visit thegrovemall.co.za FLL Disaster Blast Challenge Registration to take part in the 2013 Junior First Lego League starts on 1 May. This year children explore natural disasters, and design and construct a working model using Lego bricks and moving parts to solve a specific problem. For children 6–9 years old. Venue: nationwide. Cost: R200 per team. Contact: 082 851 8892 or visit jfllsa.org

classes, talks and workshops A balanced life Through fun games and activities children explore true happiness and ways to be an inspiring role model to others. Booking essential. 11 and 12 May. Time: 9:30am–12:30pm. Venue: 422 Trevor Gething St, Faerie Glen. Cost: R300 per child, R150 per joining sibling or parent. Contact: 082 602 7689 or info@ gowiththeflow.co.za Anger with a Capital D This workshop helps children to find healthy alternatives to losing their temper. It will help them become more aware of what happens when they push other people’s buttons.

Booking essential. 4 May. Time: 1pm–4pm.

Venue: The Pretoria East Life Studio for Kids, 319 Acornhoek St, Faerie Glen. Cost: R350.

Contact: 079 162 6465 or michelledl@ equalzeal.com Taking the blues out of bullying An empowering workshop that emphasises how children need to take responsibility for who they are, with techniques given for coping with bullying in an assertive manner. Booking essential. 1 and 18 May. Time: 1 May, 10am–3pm; 18 May, 1pm–4pm. Venue: The Pretoria East Life Studio for Kids, 319 Acornhoek St, Faerie Glen. Cost: R450 per child. Contact: 079 162 6465 or michelledl@equalzeal.com Theatre Bugs Participants are taught various stage skills including voice production and projection, mime and skills necessary for acting in shows. For ages 6 years and older. 4 and 18 May. Time: varies.

Venue: The Moonbox at the Guide Facility Hut, cnr Bruce Rd and Krige Lane, Irene, Centurion. Cost: registration fee R150; R680 for half year (January–June). Contact: 084 804 0490, tshwaneyouththeatre@gmail. com or visit pytheatre.co.za May 2013

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calendar Nocturnal tour of the zoo Join a guided tour of the zoo to learn a few interesting facts about the nocturnal animals that come out to feed and play when the sun goes down. Bookings recommended.

Time: 6:30pm–8:30pm, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Venue: meet at the main entrance, National Zoological Gardens, 232 Boom St, Pretoria CBD. Cost: adults R90, children R75. Contact: 012 339 2770, craig@nzg.ac.za or visit nzg.ac.za

markets

10 May – Princess Christian Home’s mini market

family outings Chocolate tours Take a walk around the chocolate factory, learn more about chocolate, watch a demonstration and taste the sweet treats. Tours are 45 minutes long. 11 May. Time: 9am and 11am. Venue: Snyman Sjokolateur, Waterkloof Ridge Lifestyle Centre. Cost: adults R20, children R10, children under 2 free. Contact: 012 347 8497 or visit snymanchocolates.com Cullifest Diamond Express Board the steam train and spend the day wandering the quaint mining town of Cullinan. 4 May. Time: 8:30am. Venue: departs from Hermanstad Railway Station. Cost: adults R200, pensioners R175, children R100–R150. Contact: 082 098 6186 or visit friendsoftherail.com Game reserve fun Dress up in period costumes and pose for a few photos, enjoy a game drive and cool off in the pool after lunch. For children 6–16 years old.

Time: 8am–5pm, daily. Venue: Askari Game Lodge, Plumari Private Game Reserve, Doornhoek, Magaliesberg. Cost: R100.

Contact: 014 577 2658/9, reservations@ askarilodge.co.za or visit askarilodge.co.za Honeydew Mazes Wind your way through the maze and decipher the brain-teasers and quizzes. This year’s theme is Great White Sharks. Picnics welcome. Time: 10am–5pm, Saturday and Sunday. Venue: Honeydew Mazes, Boland St, Honeydew. Cost: adults R90, children R65, family ticket (two adults with two children) R280. Contact: 073 795 2174, enquiries@maizemaze.co.za or visit honeydewmazes.co.za

finding nature and outdoor play Big Bug Expo An exhibition of gigantic insects by the artist, David Huni. Start 1 April. Time: 8am–6pm, Monday–Sunday.

Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Garden, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria. Cost: adults R25, students R15, children R10, children under 6 free. Contact: 012 843 5172/3 or visit sanbi.org Call of the wild The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre offers two-hour family tours that accommodate children under the age of 6, as well as three-hour tours for families with children over 6. Time: 9:30am–2:30pm. Venue: The Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre, Farm 22, Hartbeespoort.

Cost: adults R180, children under 5 R90, babies in arms free. Contact: 012 504 9906, cheetah@dewildt.co.za or visit dewildt.co.za

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May 2013

Irene Village Market Take a stroll through the market, featuring more than 300 stalls with local, handcrafted goods as well as a separate deli and antique section. There are lots of activities for children. 11 and 25 May. Time: 9am–2pm.

Venue: Smuts House Museum, Jan Smuts Ave, Irene. Cost: free entry. Contact: 012 667 1659, irenemkt@mweb.co.za or visit irenemarket.co.za Little Oak’s preloved sale Little Oak Montessori School is hosting a preloved sale of children’s clothes, toys, furniture and books. 18 May. Time: 9am–3pm. Venue: 5 The Oval, Irene, Centurion. Cost: free entry. Contact: 082 553 5044, littleoak@ vodamail.co.za or visit littleoak.co.za Mediterranean Market Eats, treats and gifts are on sale in the market that has been set up on the upper level of the mall.

11 and 25 May. Time: 9am–2pm. Venue: The Grove Mall, cnr Lynnwood Rd and Simon Vermooten Rd, Pretoria East. Cost: free entry. Contact: 072 758 7436 or visit thegrovemall.co.za Princess Christian Home’s mini market Donations of freshly baked bread and biscuits, books, clothing, decorative items, furniture, plants and toys are needed.

All funds raised at this mini market are in aid of the home. 10 May. Time: 8am–12pm.

Venue: Princess Christian Home, 120 Middel St, New Muckleneuk. Cost: donations.

Contact: 012 460 2221, marketing@pch24. org or visit pch24.org

on stage and screen Kidz Rock A nine-piece cast pays tribute to the children that rock. This show features music from Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, One Direction, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus and more. You are able to order pizza from the in-theatre deli or bring your own food and snacks. No beverages are allowed.

11 May. Time: doors open 12:30pm, performance 2pm. Venue: Barnyard Theatre Parkview, Parkview Shopping Centre, cnr Garsfontein Rd and Netcare St, Moreleta Park. Cost: R80. Contact: 012 368 1555, parkview@barnyardtheatres.co.za or visit barnyardtheatres.co.za Shakespeare’s Othello This timeless tragedy, with its central themes of racism, love, jealousy and betrayal, is just as relevant to today’s audiences as it was in the 1600s. 19–22 May. Time: 3pm, Sunday; 9am and 12pm, Monday and Wednesday; 12pm and 8pm, Tuesday.

Venue: Brooklyn Theatre, Greenlyn Village Centre, cnr Thomas Edison Rd and 13th St, Menlo Park. Cost: R65 per learner. Contact: 083 251 9412, margie@thinktheatre.co.za or visit thinktheatre.co.za

playtime and story time Glow Mini Golf Miniature golf takes on a surreal experience when it is done surrounded by the luminescent, carnivalthemed decorations that are lit up by UV lights. For children 4 years and older. Time: 9am–11pm, daily. Venue: The Fun Company, Carnival Mall, cnr Heidelberg Rd and Airport Rd, Dalpark Ext 5, Brakpan. Cost: R25 per person for nine holes. Contact: 011 915 8874 or visit thefuncompany.co.za Just Play Menlyn Park A safe inflatable play park is available on the upper level of the shopping centre. Children can captain their own bumper boat, or try the bungee trampoline. For children 2–12 years old.

Time: 1pm–6pm, daily. Venue: Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, cnr Atterbury Rd and Lois St, Menlyn. Cost: varies. Contact: 082 322 1278 or visit just-play.co.za

sport and physical activities Acrobranch An outdoor obstacle course allows adventure lovers to swing, climb and zip across suspension bridges and ladders. Suitable for children from 3 years old. Venue: The Big Red Barn, off the M18, Olifantsfontein. Cost: R30–R120. Contact: 083 925 0679, redbarn@acrobranch.co.za or visit acrobranch.co.za/centurion Yoga for kids Children learn yoga in a fun way through games, songs and dance.

They also learn to regulate their bodies, emotions and thoughts. For children 3 years and older. Time: 3pm–3:45pm, every Friday. Venue: Zest in Motion, 526 Opstal St, The Willows. Cost: R80 per class. Contact: 072 975 9773, info@zestinmotion.co.za or visit zestinmotion.co.za

only for parents classes, talks and workshops Practical communication skills Attendees are introduced to successful parenting via a practical communication skills programme created by the three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Dr Thomas Gordon. Bookings essential. 17 May. Time: 10am–12pm.

Venue: Sportron House Pretoria, 881 Justice Mahomed St, Brooklyn. Cost: free. Contact Heidi: 082 904 8127, heidimalan@parents. co.za or visit parents.co.za Soil and planting demo Learn everything there is to know about types of soil, and how they should be used to grow roses and other plants, from Ludwig Taschner.

4 and 5 May. Time: 10:30am–11:30am.

Venue: 4 May: Ludwig’s Rose Farm, plot 61, Haakdoornlaagte; 5 May: Ludwig’s Soleil, Plot 4, Tygervalley, Lynnwood Rd. Cost: free. Contact: 012 544 0144 or visit ludwigsroses.co.za Zumba fitness classes Invigorating, Latin-inspired dance classes combine fast and slow rhythms to tone and sculpt your body. Time: 6pm–7pm, every Thursday.

Venue: Presleys, 14 Lynnwood Rd. Cost: R75 per class, R300 per month for four classes.

Contact: 078 569 3028, annarie.fitness@ gmail.com or visit annariebrits.zumba.com

on stage and screen Chow 4 Now Kevin Perkins retires his Michael Naicker character after 12 years of stand-up comedy and prepares to recreate himself. Say farewell with an evening of old favourites, as well as some new and improvised material. 11 May. Time: 8pm.

Venue: Atterbury Theatre, 4 Daventry St, Lynnwood. Cost: R145. Contact: 012 471 1700 or visit atterburytheatre.co.za Nigel Slater’s Simple Cooking Join Nigel as he explores classic food “marriages”, discovering valuable ground rules that encourage viewers to create their own tasty combinations. Starts 6 May. Time: 9:30pm, every Monday on BBC Lifestyle, channel 174 on DStv. For more info: visit dstv.com The Greatest Love of All After auditioning thousands of potentials around the world, the lead role for this tribute to the amazing Whitney Houston was given to South African-born Belinda Davids. 9 May–2 June.

Time: 8pm, Thursday–Saturday; 3pm, Sunday. Venue: Joburg Theatre, 163 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein. Cost: R100– R250. Book through the Joburg Theatre: 0861 670 670 or visit joburgtheatre.com

out and about Cultivino Grab your tasting glass and coupon booklet at the entrance and enjoy the signature wines on offer at the tasting festival.

23 and 24 May. Time: 6pm–10pm. Venue: Irene Village Mall, cnr Nellmapius Dr and Van Ryneveld Ave, Irene. Cost: R50. Contact: 012 662 4446, info@irenevillagemall.co.za or visit irenevillagemall.co.za Dinner with a bone detective After a sumptuous dinner, enjoy a discussion with up-and-coming scientist Brendon Billings as he reveals the secrets of our past and presents a selection of incredible fossil casts. 18 May. Time: 6pm. Venue: Maropeng Hotel, Cradle of Humankind. Cost: R375. Contact: 014 577 9000 or visit maropeng.co.za

Absolute Dance The talented students from Pro Arte Alphen Park’s dance department are performing Dance Décole, a challenging ballet choreographed by Michelle Naudé and Nigel Hannah. Other works are performed by the department’s staff. 17 and 18 May. Time: 7:30pm, Friday; 3pm and 8pm, Saturday. Venue: State Theatre, Church St, Pretoria. Cost: R150. Book through Computicket: 0861 915 8000 or visit computicket.com

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magazine pretoria

Free day for seniors Senior citizens older than 60 years can enjoy free entry into the zoo, the aquarium and the reptile park. Booking essential. 7 May. Time: 9am.

Venue: National Zoological Gardens, 232 Boom St, Pretoria CBD. Cost: only free for senior citizens; accompanying adults R66, children R44. Contact: 012 339 2700, info@nzg.ac.za or visit nzg.ac.za Swartkrans picnic and walking tour Swartkrans, one of the Cradle’s richest fossil sites, is usually closed to the public but occasionally small groups have a rare opportunity to observe an active palaeontological dig, guided by scientist Morris Sutton. 25 May. Time: 9am.

Venue: The Sterkfontein Caves, Cradle of Humankind. Cost: R375 (includes a light picnic lunch). Contact: 014 577 9000 or visit maropeng.co.za

support groups Single Parents Support Group A social club where single parents and their children meet for various activities once a month. 25 May. Time: 1pm. Venue: varies. Cost: R120 once-off registration fee. Contact: 076 054 5510 or visit soloparenting.weebly.com

bump, baby & Tot in tow

classes, talks and workshops Moms and Tots workshop A programme specifically developed to enhance coordination and perceptual skills in your toddler. For children 1–3 years old.

Time: varies. Venues: Centurion, Faerie Glen, Wonderboom and Lyttelton Manor.

Cost: varies. Contact Tania in Doringkloof: 082 462 4085; Retha in Faerie Glen: 012 991 3359; Carla in Wonderboom: 083 657 0625; Estie in Lyttelton Manor: 012 664 5136 or visit momsandtots.co.za Preggi Bellies Doctors, physiotherapists and specialised instructors guide women at each stage of pregnancy through carefully constructed exercises. Time and venues: Centurion: 6pm, Thursday; 8am, Saturday; or Moreleta Park: 6:30pm, Tuesday; 8am, Saturday. Cost: from R100 per class. Contact: 0860 723 559 or visit preggibellies.co.za

playtime and story time Crazi Cow This is a quiet place for children to rough and tumble in the sand as you enjoy a cup of coffee and a light meal. Time: 9am–5pm, Monday–Friday; 9am–1pm, Saturday. Venue: Stimustation, 44 Alexandra St, Doringkloof. Cost: free entry; food costs vary. Contact: 083 272 0372 or naudene@mweb.co.za Jingle Jangle Tea Garden and Nursery Pony rides, an animal farm, quad bikes, a jungle gym for children under 6 years old and trampolines are available to entertain the little ones while you relax in the tea garden. The recommended Mother’s Day dishes are lamb curry and lamb shank. Time: 8:30am–4:30pm. Venue: Wekker St, plot 54, Kimiad Estate, Moreleta Park. Cost: varies. Contact: 012 997 0134, jinglejangle@vodamail.co.za or visit jinglejangle.co.za magazine pretoria

Veggie gardens for charity

support groups Little Miracle Products and Services They offer emotional support as well as specialised premature baby products to the parents of premature babies. Venue: 1242 Haarhoff St East, Moregloed, Pretoria. Contact: 0861 548 853 or info@ littlemiracle.co.za Muscular dystrophy support system Emotional support and advice for parents of children affected by muscular dystrophy.

Contact: 012 998 0251 or visit mdsa.org.za The Compassionate Friends A support organisation for bereaved parents, grandparents and siblings. Venue: 192 Edinburgh Ave East, Clubview, Centurion.

Contact: 012 654 1768 Unique Offers guidance for families of children with rare chromosome disorders.

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

how to help Beaded White Ribbon Project Wear your white ribbon to make a statement against physical abuse. The ribbons are handmade by unemployed women. The proceeds go to the Motheo Wa Katlego Community Development Project, which cares for vulnerable children in Winterveldt, northwest of Pretoria. Cost: R20. Contact: 082 970 6035, info@bontlebame.com or visit bontlebame.com Save-a-Child Golf Day Proceeds raised go towards Save-a-Child, a non-profit organisation that cares for abused and molested children in Pretoria. 16 May. Time: 10:40am. Venue: Woodhill Golf Course, Garsfontein Rd. Cost: R3 000 per team of four. Contact: 012 460 9272, marketing. cmrn@gmail.com or visit cmrn.co.za Veggie gardens for charity Volunteer your time to help create veggie gardens and teach children in impoverished areas to grow their own vegetables. They need gardening equipment. Contact: 082 341 2888, info@ nutri-kids.org.za or visit nutri-kids.org.za

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 3 May for the June issue, and must include all relevant details.

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

May 2013

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finishing touch

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

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

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

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

Erin, Anél and Conor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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May 2013

magazine pretoria

PHOTOGRAPH: STEPHANIE VELDMAN

o

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

party book extract

is it a plane, is it a train?

Take the fuss out of party catering with these creative yet practical ideas, extracted from Easy Party Treats for Children by JANETTE MOCKE.

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

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

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

lamington train

PHOTOGRAPHS: RYNO

Makes one train • 9 lamington squares • glacé icing • liquorice strips • round sweets for the wheels • 2 sugared jelly rings • 2 dome-shaped sugared jelly sweets • a variety of small sweets • 1 rectangular cake board Use three lamington squares to form the locomotive.

Use glacé icing to stick two lamington squares together, and stick another one on top of the back square. Place the locomotive on the cake board – use glacé icing to secure it.

Cut a square out of the top lamington, leaving a 1cm edge all round. Do the same with the remaining six squares, to form the carriages of the train.

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

Using a little glacé icing, stick the round sweets to the lamingtons so they resemble the wheels of the train.

Stick two sugared jelly rings at the front of the locomotive and place two dome-shaped sugared jelly sweets on top of the jelly rings, to form the funnels.

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

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

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

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

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

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