Summer 2014

Summer is Here: Are You & Your Teen Sexually Wise?

SUMMER 2014

BERMUDAPARENT.BM

What Parents are Talking About

FREE

Bedwetting NO MORE

Celebrating

Party PLANNING IDEAS

Dads

Pack up the Kids

Have Fun this Summer!

Summer Facebook Photo Contest Congrats to our Winners!

Contents PREGNANCY

12

If It Saves a Life

Shannon Decosta shares her story about hyperthyroidism and how it affected her baby’s life.

Maighen Price

BABY

18

Never Say Never

Julie Hendrickson-Simons promised to never get married or have a baby, she tells us how this all changed.

LITTLE ONES

22

Love, Marriage and a Double Carriage

Nichola Cunha shares with us the joys and stresses that having twins can bring.

Shawnette Smith

SUMMER FUN

40

Pack up the Kids For Some Fun This Summer A List of Must Do’s in and around our island.

42

Party Planning Ideas

Don’t have a clue where to start when planning your child’s next party. These suggestions could help.

TWEENS & TEENS

47

Summer is Here: Are You & Your Teen Sexually Wise?

They doesn’t promise to make little Einstein’s but their curriculum can make stronger, healthier and happier brains.

BSMART’s Innovations Institute

Teens can easily become the victim of an unwanted sexual encounters. Help them to be a little wiser this summer!

28

Bring Reading to Life

FAMILY FINANCES

BIG KIDS

32

Revising Revision

Helping your child prepare for exams.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to be updated on the next contest at www.bermudaparent.bm

Bedwetting No More

Keeping this kind of secret can be horrible for a child. Here are some tips to help.

24

Tips on how to create excitement and learning during story time.

Sarah Fuhrtz

36

40

On the Cover The Hollis Family Jason, Beth & Avalon at Palm Grove Gardens

Photo By: Taja Nicole Photography

56

Paychecks and Playchecks

Use these great tips to making your paycheck really work for you.

In Every Issue 6 BIRTHDAYS 38 BPM KIDS 51

BPM TWEENS & TEENS

54

DADS CORNER

THEIR FUTURE IS BRIGHT – THANKS TO YOUR PLANNING. Butterfield Select Invest Fund offers you a selection of professionally managed portfolios that range from conservative to dynamic—helping you define and choose the education strategy that’s right for you, right now. The Select Invest Fund is a highly diversified, and very flexible long-term investment vehicle that helps ensure that your money is working for you.

Select Invest Fund—Five Portfolios, One Education Objective: Yours.

For more information, please contact us at 299 3817, stop by our Investment Centre, or visit our website.

www.butterfieldgroup.com Butterfield Asset Management Limited is licensed to conduct Investment business by the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

Address 65 Front StreetHamilton HM12, Bermuda

editor’s note

W p. 42

hat a joyous time it is! Excitement abounds – Kids are off from school and many are off to summer camps, beach days, sleepovers, parties, camping trips and so much more. In this issue we have listed some great ideas on page 40 that will hopefully keep you from hearing those dreaded words…“I’m Bored!” from your kids.

Planning for a birthday party can often be daunting and overwhelming! We’ve taken the liberty to provide you with a couple of places that will take the stress and guess work out of the preparation and leave you and your child a memorable experience. Skip over to page 42 and never utter these words again…“What am I going to do for their birthday this year?”

In our spring issue, we focused on child sexual abuse and with summer vacation fast approaching; older children will naturally have more free time. Ask yourself, Are You & Your Teen Sexually Wise? If your teen is faced with a sexual encounter, how do you think they will handle it? If you’re not sure have a read of page 47 and use it as a conversation starter.

Help your tweens/teens to make wise decision, encourage them to think of scenarios and how would they respond? They will resist and think it’s lame but if they have practiced or thought about it, their response to an encounter of sexual misconduct may very well be different, than if they had not been prepared.

Did you know that all our issues are online! Visit www.bermudaparent.bm

Wishing you each of you a Happy and Wonderful Summer!

Publisher & Editor

PHOTO BY JESSII TERRA

Summer is Here What Parents are Talking About

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Katrina Ball B U S I N E S S CO N S U LTA N T

Vic Ball A DV E R T I S I N G S A L E S

Wanda Brown wanda0211@logic.bm 333-1925 Taja Fox tajafox@gmail.com 705-2400 D E S I G N & P RO D U C T I O N

Picante Creative W R I T E R S & CO N T R I B U TO R S

Sloane Chinapoo, Alicia Resnik, Taja Fox, Sherraine Fleming, Zach Moniz, Lisa Lewis, Dr. Jacob Sagie, Joanne Ball-Burgess, BSMART Foundation CO N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Taja Nicole Photography, J. Renae Photography Bermuda Parent Magazine is published five times a year. Reader correspondence, photo submissions and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this magazine. Distribution of this product does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein.

CO N TAC T U S

info@bermudaparent.bm Tel: 504-2937 www.bermudaparent.bm facebook.com/bdaparentmag

If you haven’t chosen a camp yet be sure to visit bermudacamps.com for a full listing of camps! If you’re having trouble deciding which camp to choose our new website bermudaparent.bm has a great article on picking the ‘right’ camp for your child.

4

The

W

Spot Restaurant

ith the bustling atmosphere of a diner and a tempting display of cakes and pies, the Spot Restaurant is the perfect place for a meal out with the family.

Located on Burnaby Street in the city of Hamilton, the Spot is one of Bermuda’s oldest continuing restaurants. It was originally opened in the 1940’s by Mr. Arthur Foote.

The current owner, Mr. Thomas (Ted) Powell purchased the property in 1971 and has been running it ever since. He credits the restaurant’s continued success to “Personalized service, good quality food and good prices.”

In fact, the Spot has earned accolades both here and abroad. In 1999 and in 2012, Bermudian magazine awarded them “Best of Bermuda.” The Spot is also listed on Trip Advisor’s website for being one of the best restaurants in Hamilton. The website praises the restaurant for its food, service and “value for money” - especially for their breakfast. Bon Appetite magazine is rumored to have once asked for their famous custard pie recipe!

When asked what his favorite meal is, Mr. Powell says, “I’m the food taster. I get to sample everything!” The “house special” is roast turkey and Mr. Powell says the restaurant is famous for their club sandwiches made with fresh roasted turkey. “We roast two large turkeys every day - in excess of 50 pounds. A customer favorite is the hot turkey sandwich.”

The Spot Restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, from 6:30am to 10pm.

“We start serving breakfast at 6:30am and dinner is served up to 10pm,” says Mr. Powell.

In addition to their club sandwiches, they have a full service menu that includes everything from breakfast sandwiches to wraps, burgers and dinner platters. Mr. Powell recommends their banana pancakes and cinnamon French toast made with raisin bread. There are always daily specials, vegetarian options, salads and soups. House specialties include homemade hamburgers, bbq chicken kabobs, meatball subs and

BY ALICIA RESNIK

“the Spot Double Burger.” Children, young and old, will certainly love the old fashioned milkshakes and ice cream floats.

The restaurant is “child-friendly” with booths, tables and counter service.

The Spot Restaurant is located at #6 Burnaby Hill, in Hamilton. Open Monday to Saturday, 6:30am to 10pm. Contact 292-6293. Take-out service is also available.

Truly a Bermudian Tradition for over 70 years.

Open Monday-Saturday 6:30 am - 10:00 pm Closed Sundays & Public Holidays www.bermudaparent.bm

5

CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY! Brandon & Alyssa Cunha April 22

Wishing Brandon and Alyssa a Happy 4th Birthday. We love you, Mommy & Daddy.

Ke’Nahri Furbert June 13

Happy 1st Birthday Ke’Nahri! Have a great day, Love Mommy & Ke’alah!

Happy Big 7th Birthday Michael, Tons n Tons on Love from Mama, Lacy, Andrew & Hunter. Hope it’s the best ever!!!

March 30

Happy 7th Birthday. Love Mommy, Daddy, Da, Papa, and entire Family. May Allah bless you! We love you.

Joshua Smith July 21

Happy 5th Birthday to my awesome and sweet son Joshua.

It has been five great years and I’m looking forward to many more.

Love Always, Mommy and Family

Austin Smith

Happy Birthday Princess Austin.

Love Mommie and Abbah.

6

April 22

April 18th

Naeem Ibrahim

May 25

Kree Holdipp

Michael Darrell

FIVE is for Fantastic – Incredible – Vibrant – Extraordinary. Happy 5th Birthday Kree.

Love Mommy, Daddy, GG, Nana & Pepe

Skye Minors June 16

Happy 11th Birthday.

Love The Ibrahim and Minors Clan. We love you!

Sahki Williams April 25

Happy 6th Birthday Ki!!! We love you more than all the grains of sand in the world.

Love Mommy & Zai Kiana Fox May 28

Happy 13th Birthday! Sending you birthday wishes wrapped with all our love! Have a very Happy Birthday! You’re finally a teenager!!!! Love Mommy, Andrew and your brothers.

Do you have a July to September birthday baby?

birthday wishes!

Email us at: photos@bermudaparent.bm with a photo and details.

Max and Silvana Inacio-Hopper Max – May 30; Silvana – May 14

Your birthdays are the happiest days of our life.

Happy birthday!

Love, Mommy and Daddy.

Ja’Miyah Johnston

Allison Steynor

June 19

Happy Birthday!

Love Mommy, Daddy and Ja’Leiyah

Charles AJ Smith

June 29

April 11

Happy 2nd Birthday Allison! Love You! Mom & Dad xo

K’ah Seymour

Happy 1st birthday Charles! Love, Mommy and Daddy

Bella Correia

June 25

Happy 1st Birthday to K’ah Amarli.

Love Always Mommy and Daddy

June

Happy 2nd Birthday Bella.

We love you so much!

From Daddy and Mommy

Caiden Wellman

Yassine Chentouf May 10

Happy Birthday Yassine! We’re all so proud of you and love you so much. Hugs from the family all over the world!!

Markus Leverock & Zahmya Leverock May 31 & May 21

Happy Birthday!

From your Mom, Dad, brother, sister and grandparents!

May 11

Happy 3rd Birthday Caiden, may God bless you with many more!

With love, Mommy, Daddy and Camila Malik & Catelaya Tomaz June 17

Happy 1st birthday Malik and Catelaya!! Our heartbeats, Mommy and Daddy love you unconditionally!!!

Purchasing Second-hand Children’s Products Buying second-hand children’s products is an affordable way to equip a nursery. But it can also be dangerous as some items can be out of date and no longer safe.

Some children’s products, especially cribs and bassinets have caused deaths and have been the subject of numerous recalls.

Check our website, www.ca.gov.bm before you purchase any children’s products second-hand.

441-297-7627 consumers@gov.bm www.ca.gov.bm

8

S.A.L. EAST SHOP 4 Hermitage Road Devonshire Phone: 232-2000 Fax: 236-2978 S.A.L. WEST SHOP 17 Industrial Park Southampton Phone: 238-2000 Fax: 238-3316 DON’T FORGET OUR 20% OFF, DISCOUNT TUESDAYS!

Great Parenting Books Available at

Great Educational Books for All Ages

Dr Seuss Classic Books for Children

Books for Pregnancy and Motherhood Assorted Story Books for Children

...and Much More! www.bermudaparent.bm

9

pregnancy

PHOTO BY TAJA NICOLE

New Beginnings start at The Phoenix Kidz!

Mothers and mothers-to-be will find everything they need for their little ones at Phoenix Kidz.

This is Bermuda’s number one source of supplies for newborns and young children.

Phoenix Kidz carries everything from cribs and furniture, to car seats and strollers, to health and baby care items. We have got you covered!

Located on the 1st Floor of The Phoenix Centre on Reid St. 279-5450 • www.phoenixstores.bm

pregnancy

BY SLOANE CHINAPOO

If It Saves A Life, Then It’s Worth It!

The Shannon DeCosta Story

S

hannon DeCosta, 29, is the mother of a beautiful baby boy Shaydn now 4 years old.

6 months after having an uneventful pregnancy and delivery with Shaydn, Shannon

was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) is a condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine.

“I felt like I was dying. I saw other mothers that I knew who were out with their babies, at just one week old and I was at home with no energy at all. I used to think how did they possibly have so much energy? My limbs felt like cement. It took major effort to simply get out of bed. I had no energy or motivation to even get out of my pajamas.”

After suffering a few months and chalking up her lack of energy and soreness to, “Just having had a baby”, Shannon went to her family doctor. After the diagnosis, Shannon began taking thyroid medication and changed her diet. Shannon also met with a nutritionist who recommended, a natural thyroid support medication. “I felt better when I was taking the natural medication and more energetic.”

“My family has been very supportive. They know what I have but it’s hard to explain the extent of it to them. Sometimes, I feel like they just think I’m being lazy. I feel guilty at times that I don’t do enough for my son and my husband.”

When Shannon and husband Francisco found out they were expecting again, they were elated. “It had taken us about 8 months to pick out Shaydn’s name but this time we were ready with both a boy’s name and girls name picked out. I spoke with my general practitioner and was advised to stop taking the natural medication and return to prescription medication to stabilize my pregnancy.

Shannon met with the nurse in her OBGYN’s office and was told that she would be given a prescription for the thyroid medication at her 12 week visit. “I did tell her I was concerned about not being on any medication for my thyroid but she kept telling me I would be fine so, I trusted her.”

12

At about 9 weeks Shannon starting spotting and was taken to the hospital.

The next 4 days she spent her time in and out of the hospital literally begging doctors and nurses to run tests that would rule out her hyperthyroidism. “I

is not linked to miscarriage but my own research proved otherwise.”

Still coming to terms with the loss of a child the DeCosta’s still find it hard. “People tell me it will get easier, you might cry less but it touches your heart and you never forget no matter how much time goes by. At first I didn’t even want to look at other babies. I still privately count the months I would have been pregnant and other milestones.

It’s almost like I’m torturing myself.”

During her research Shannon discovered that hyperthyroidism is known to run in families and is taking the steps to have Shadyn tested early. Again, she was met with resistance from his

I was put on bed rest and with as many times as I asked, my thyroid was never checked.” felt like no one thought it was important and I was left for hours at a time without anyone checking on me. The bleeding progressively got worse and I kept telling them it was really bad.

I was told that sometimes bleeding is normal. I was put on bed rest and with as many times as I asked, my thyroid was never checked.”

After losing her baby, a devastated Shannon returned home with more questions than answers. “All of the doctors told me that hyperthyroidism

human body — young or old, laughing or crying, kissing or hugging, singing or dancing — is about 60% water.

So if we’re looking after 60% of you, all you have to do is love, laugh, kiss, cry, dance, sing and hug with your other 40%.

ClearWater Systems has been Bermuda’s most trusted source for clean and crystal clear drinking water technologies since 1997.

pediatrician, who states that the condition does not run in families. Having learned a hard lesson, Shannon is not as trusting in the opinion of her doctor and is doing her own research to ensure her son grows into a happy, healthy young man. “I pray every day and I am so thankful because I could have lost Shadyn too. I wanted to share my story because I don’t want another woman to go through what I went through just because she didn’t know enough and if it saves a baby’s life it’s worth it.”

W A RW ICK LAN E S PROVIDING FAMILIES WITH HOURS OF BOWLING FUN Mondays - Fridays 4pm - Midnight Saturdays 6pm - Midnight Sundays 2pm - 11pm Tel: 236-5290

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13

Give them what they need, want!

NOT what they don’t!

Never has artificial flavor or articial sweeteners Toddler sized portions

IMPORTANT NOTICE: The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life and continued breastfeeding for as long as possible. As babies grow at different paces, health professionals should advise the mother on the appropriate time when her baby should start receiving complementary foods.

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15

baby

baby

BY TAJA FOX

Never!

Never Say

Statistically an increasing number of women are getting pregnant after age 40. In fact,

the number of older mothers or as some doctors like to call it, mothers of an advanced maternal age, are increasing not only in the USA but in other countries as well. Julie Hendrickson-Simons, age 47, born in New York and daughter of a Bermudian had her first baby girl at Florida Hospital Waterman in Tavares, Florida. [Dr. Wendy Perrot]

B

eing pregnant after the age of 40 was never planned but was expected. For most, it was shocking especially since Julie’s plans were to not have children nor get married. “I really enjoyed the reactions from my friends and family.

They were completely shocked. I was the one who 18

promised to never get married or have children.

Never say never! I vowed to be single forever. And a child, no way. I am so happy that Mr. Simons messed up my plan.”

Julie was complacent about having a child because of her previous miscarriage. “After having

“I’ve witnessed the stress of infertility tear couples apart. I was not going to let that happen to us.” a miscarriage about two years ago, I was extremely apprehensive about trying again. The loss of that pregnancy and the ensuing 12-18 months was a very dark period in our lives. I was afraid of what another loss would do to my sanity.”

Her husband was not in on the “active pursuit” of another pregnancy but knew it was a possibility. Julie states, “I’ve witnessed the stress of infertility tear couples apart. I was not going to let that happen to us.”

Little did the couple know there would be another blessing on the way. Julie had a Cesarean just under 39 weeks and wishes she listened to everyone’s advice. “Everyone told

me to stay hydrated and sleep when the baby sleeps. I wish I had listened to them about sleeping. I AM EXHAUSTED.” One of the benefits of having a child is experiencing the joys of motherhood. “This is my first child and I’m so happy to have had a girl.

We’re going to have a BALL!” When asked how she felt about parenthood so far, Julie responded, “I love it! I have yet to find the words to describe exactly how I feel about her and my experience. I can’t stop looking and listening to her.”

The greatest moment during the surgery was being able to share the love of music. “My husband and I are big Bob Marley fans so we opted to play his music instead. As it turns out, my doctor (who is Trinidadian) is also a Marley fan and played his music while she was performing my surgery.”

Julie is thankful for the number of people in her life who encouraged and gave advice where needed during her pregnancy. “I have a VILLAGE of people who are advising me, starting with my husband and my parents.” Thank you!

Her advice to expecting mothers over the age of 40 is to be prepared and plan well. “GO FOR IT! Pray, eat healthy, take folic acid and/ or a prenatal vitamins and maintain a healthy weight.

You are not too old. 40 is the new 20!”

HAPPY MOMENTS Nursery & Preschool

Spring into Summer and Fall Enrollment at Happy Moments Nursery & Preschool Bermuda‘s premier early childhood education center since 1998.

Fill your child’s formative years of schooling each day with explorative learning within small group settings.

Whether learning new concepts, painting, going on school outings or playing with friends our school is a place “Where happy children learn for a brighter future”.

Our conscientious teaching staff is certified in ECE, CPR and First Aid. It is our goal as teachers to believe in our students, assist in fulfilling each parent’s aspirations for their child and inspire our students in reaching their full potential.

Accepting Full and Part time Applicants for 2014-2015 school years.

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Located in Hamilton Parish we serve families in the East and Central parishes and beyond.

Our physical sight is sunny, spacious and well ventilated providing ample play areas and green spacious lawns to romp and play.

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www.bermudaparent.bm

19

Parent Resources Do you have a child from age birth to 4?

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Play-based screenings for 24 – 30 month old children Parent and Children’s Book Library Toy Library

Are you a Home Child Care Provider and would like resources to help you to care for young children?

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little ones

pregnancy little ones

BY SLOANE CHINAPOO

Love, Marriage and a

Double Carriage First comes the love, then comes the marriage, then comes the baby in the baby carriage. Every little girl dreams of this fantasy and those that get to live it have it all. Nichola and Mark Cunha were ecstatic to discover they were pregnant after a story book courtship and marriage.

M

entally preparing for the birth of a child can be frightening for most first time parents. However, Nichola and Mark happily stepped up to the plate and were excited to see their little bundle of joy for the first time at their 6 week ultrasound.

Nichola recalls how the technician kept referring to Baby A and Baby B. Laughing she recalls, “I asked what do you mean Baby A and Baby B?” Mark who was in complete and total shock needed a glass of water to help him digest the news.

After the discovery of the twins, Nichola and Mark prepared for their arrival buying two of everything.

“I had no morning sickness; it was such an easy pregnancy” Nichola states. When asked what helped her best prepare for the twins she replied,

22

“knowing their sexes in advance really helped a lot.”

Family plays a large role in helping to prepare for and raise babies and Nichola and Mark’s families were no exception. Having the assistance and support of family has been a blessing for the Cunha’s.

The twins arrived at thirty-six weeks via c-section with Baby A, Alyssa and Baby B, Brandon weighing in at 5lbs and 4 lbs respectively. “They were in perfect health, no incubator, feeding tubes or anything.” Nichola unfortunately suffered complications and was sent to the ICU, where she had to endure blood transfusions. After nine days in hospital the twins and mom were allowed to go home.

When asked what are some misconceptions of having twins, Nichola replied, “People think that because you have multiples that the Government assists you and that’s not true. I was blessed to be able to stay home for seventeen months with the kids.”

Paying over two thousand dollars a month in child care alone, the Cunha’s have been able to save money by buying everything in bulk and purchasing items on discount days at the supermarkets. Asked if she would do it again, a wide eyed Nichola responded, “No, because it’s too expensive and the multiples rate is higher if you have already had multiples, plus I have multiples on both sides.”

When asked about the best and worst moments of being a mother of multiples, she smiled, as she

answered: “The worst moments of being a mom to twins is when they are both sick at the same time and no one told me about the terrible 3’s! Some people think it’s harder because you have two babies, it’s not harder because you don’t know any different.”

“I am enjoying them, especially now that they can communicate with me. I just don’t want them to grow up too fast. They are still obsessed with Mommy and I love that.

Having the twins has been both rewarding and stressful. I have had amazing examples of parenting, I want them to be good people and I want to be proud of my kids.”

Offering additional advice Nichola wants other moms to note: “Don’t listen to anything people tell you especially the negative. Don’t go by the book, do what is best for your family

and your babies.”

Nichola writes a journal to her twin’s everyday to tell them about all of the milestones including all of the little sentimental things they might want to know when they get older.

You are never, ever really ready for the birth of a child let alone two. Instruction manuals or not these bundles of happiness are the best thing that has ever happened to this family. Nichola’s fairytale ending is complete with love, marriage and double carriage.

ALL NATURAL

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23

little ones

BY BSMART Foundation

Welcome to our School!

Innovations Institute Imagine walking into a school that stimulates both adults and children.

A

t BSMART’s Innovations Institute that is exactly what you will find. Give your child the opportunity to step into a world packed with possibilities: for experiencing new sensations, for expressing themselves, for exploring their passions and potential. All while solidifying each child’s foundation of readiness and academic skills needed to excel in learning and beyond.

From our creative aesthetic, imaginative design, integrated curriculum, state of the art technology, and extraordinary facility, everything has been carefully designed to provide a premier educational experience.

Our comprehensive neurodevelopmental approach provides children with a solid foundation of readiness skills they need to excel in learning and beyond.

BSMART Innovation Institute’s dedication to providing a solid foundation of learning environment enables children to acquire social, emotional, motor, neurophysiological, speech/language, cognitive skills, artistic, and cultural development that are the foundations for all future learning and are integral to each child’s lifelong love of learning.

At Innovations Institute, we recognize and encourage the amazing potential children have to learn.

Why do parents choose Innovations Institute as the premier choice for education?

We are Bermuda’s first and only S.M.A.R.T. School!

Plainly speaking, there is no other school on the island that offers a truly comprehensive neuro24

developmental approach to learning.

Who doesn’t want to give their children the best start in life? That extra edge that will help them become well-rounded, well–adjusted adults?

To reap all potential benefits, our educational programs are intensive, high in quality, and emphasize neural, physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Curricula must be intellectually rich and sufficiently broad to address children’s neuro-developmental needs in all domains.

This is the key to fostering confident, resilient, and successful kids.

Our Philosophy?

Movement Anchors Learning!

This is because movement provides multi-sensory stimulation, which exercises and stimulates the brain and prepares it for learning and reading in a way that traditional classroom instruction alone does not.

S.M.A.R.T. strengthens neurological and physiological functioning to promote richer connections among neural pathways so that attention, acquisition, retention and production abilities are increased. The repetition and frequency of these activities create new opportunities for the body and brain to learn in additional ways. All this to ensure the solid foundation for which all future learning can build upon.

Programs and Integrative Curriculum Our school was developed around the idea that quality education should be home-like and include attention to all areas of development in addition to our

Our Summer Camp Schedule academic curriculum which includes: neurophysiological development, vision, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic development.

Our Integrative Curriculum includes a wide range of research-based practices that foster creative and effective learning environments that support and enhance early childhood education.

Program activities, developed by teachers and therapists, utilize developmentally appropriate themes units and are tailored to the child’s current levels of development.

The activity-based curriculum emphasizes each child’s strengths while addressing his/her individual needs.

Innovations students also have access to the latest Neurotechnology services and programs: • Comprehensive vision screenings • Audiograms for JIAS auditory stimulation programs • Our Saccadic Vision Fixator, • Audiovisual Entrainment (A.V.E.) • And other neurotechnology tools, programs, and services.

(See our website for more information and images).

Outcomes We don’t promise to make your children into little Einsteins.

But your child will leave Week 1: June 30 - July 4 BSMART Innovations Week 2: July 7 - July 11 Institute with: Week 3: July14 - July 18 • A comprehensive firm Week 4: July 21 - July 25 foundation of develWeek 5: August 4 - August 8 opment leading to Week 6: August 11 - August 15 proficient language Week 7: August 18 - August 22 acquisition, literacy and Week 8: August 25 - August 29 mathematical thinking.

• Increased foundational skills such as balance, coordination, reflex pattern integration, kinesthetic awareness, visual skills and auditory skills.

• A stronger, healthier and happier brain, increasing his or her ability to successfully attend, acquire, think, retain and produce.

• Greater ease when performing higher order tasks.

• Increased attention, acquisition, retention and production of basic skills.

• Motivation to learn • Willingness to work and play cooperatively • Ability to face challenges and disappointments • The capacity to self-regulate emotions and behavior • A willingness to work hard, trust and respect their teachers, and a dedication to developing the skills to be life-long learners.

A very solid S.M.A.R.T. foundation to build upon!

www.bermudaparent.bm

25

© 2013 RB

Discover How Can Transform Your Child We DELIVER an internationally-recognized, world-class curriculum with small class sizes.

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27

pregnancy little ones

BY SHERRAINE FLEMING, Head Teacher, Chatterbox Preschool

BringReading To Life

M

aking story time a time for interaction and conversation can be great fun! Share lasting moments with your child as you explore the various characters and adventures told in story books. Reading is the perfect way to increase your child’s vocabulary, spark their imagination and encourage strong literacy skills. Whether you have a baby, toddler or a preschooler, increasing their exposure to new words during story time is a great way to interact. As parents, reading to your little one before bedtime, at the park or maybe during a cuddle time promotes a special bond. Book reading is highly contextualized, and can help children to bridge the context of the story with their own lives.

Grow literacy skills by reading with your child, not to your child. Most times we read to children as they sit and 28

listen, although this is great, conversing and sharing thoughts throughout the story will help bring the story to life. Have an ongoing dialogue: ask questions, wait, listen, and respond.

Probe and encourage your child to contribute thoughts and ideas. Showing interest in your child’s ideas will promote further dialogue and motivate use of their imagination as they share their thoughts. Reading to your child helps to strengthen comprehension as you discuss the book together, it can also help your preschooler gain alphabet knowledge, recognize print and build phonological awareness.

Ensuring your book is age appropriate will help determine if your child will be engaged and interested in the story.

Choosing a book that is too difficult or too simple may limit their involvement and interaction. Make story time interactive and fun by expanding the topic by using props such as hand

puppets or toys and respond to any comment your child makes. Alter your voice to mimic the characters in the story, show excitement and use different facial expressions while reading. If your child is a discoverer, between the ages of birth to 8 months, talk to them as if they can talk to you.

Use words like “Look, the baby is laughing!” and comment to any response from your child. With a child who is a First Word User 8 months to 24 months, talk about the here and now and relate their messages to their lives. Ask who, what, and where questions to expand their messages. If your child is an ‘Early and Later Sentence User’ between the ages of 2 and 5 years expand their language and discuss the past, present and future. Discuss with your child new ideas about the characters and use ‘think-out-loud’ comments such as, “I wonder how the little boy feels?” Create an interesting dialogue together by discussing the story and problem solving. When introducing new vocabulary, share relative examples and pair the new word(s) with real experiences. This example of pairing will give your child the knowledge and correct context of the word, if they choose to use it while communicating or describing. Your basic communication between an adult and a child should go back and forth at least five times, although it may vary based on the language stage of the child and familiarity of the book. Model turn

Great Value and Affordable Prices Every Day Washington Mall, Hamilton Open 9 to 6 Phone: 292-1080

taking with your child by talking then allowing your child to respond next, encourage discussion whenever possible.

Making story time a time for conversation and interaction is fun and can be very rewarding! Just imagine your child’s excitement and the learning experience gained while interacting during story time.

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She is still performing as well as teaching the etiquette of Classical Ballet to those who are serious about improving their technique.

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THE CONSCIOUS BIRTH prenatal yoga class increases strength, flexibility and endurance of muscles needed for childbirth.

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WindReach Bermuda’s inclusive summer camp will be held during the month of August on our 4 acre facility which includes a fully accessible playground, petting zoo, nature zone and an air conditioned activity centre.

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The camp is for 5 to 12 year olds and is for campers of all abilities, whether they are children with or without special needs.

students and seniors on topics including Internet safety,

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For information on responsible use of technology, visit

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Information is also available on our website www.windreachbermuda.bm We are located at 57 Spice Hill Road, Warwick, Bermuda

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big kids

PHOTO BY TAJA NICOLE

big kids

BY JOANNE BALL-BURGESS M.ED

Revising Revision

Helping Your Child Prepare For Exams

Music and Rhythm Children who are auditory and kinesthetic learners tend to recall information well through music and rhythm.

My son enjoyed learning his time-tables through rap and made up dances along with the beats.

In my Social Studies classes I always began a new 32

ALL PHOTOS BY J.RENEA PHOTOGRAPHY

A

nxiety is at an all-time high around exam time and most well-meaning parents will tell their kids, “You need to try harder” or “You just need to apply yourself better”. However, these statements do not provide students with the practical methods they need in order to pass their exams.

Parents and kids need support before and during the exam process. Exams do not necessarily show that students have adequately grasped their work fairly because some students are simply better at taking tests.

Other students are better at expressing their knowledge application through assessment mediums such as oral reports, creative projects and essays. If these options are not part of the assessment process at your child’s school then all is not lost. As exam time draws near parents and children can create their own quizzes and memory challenges to remember class content in fun and engaging ways. One of the ways parents and teachers can assist their child is to understand the way that their child takes in information—sometimes called their learning style.

The three basic types of learners are: • Visual: Seeing • Auditory: Hearing • Kinesthetic: Learning through physical activity.

Few children are purely auditory learners even though the majority of teaching practice caters towards the auditory learner. As a result, many students struggle with recall and conceptualization of content when their learning styles are not supported in the classroom.

unit with a song. Each morning the students learned a bit more of the song until they realized that they had actually absorbed a lot of information. As the kids learned the songs, they used percussions to make the rhythm and made up their own dance routines. They felt empowered by the fact that they knew their work and also felt happy to come to class. As the school year continued, the students began composing their own songs which displayed a deepening of understanding toward the information through rhyme and rhythm. »

Parents, you may not think of yourself as a marvelous singer or instrumentalist, however, you can help your auditory-kinesthetic learner engage better in the learning process through music and rhythm. Get out some pots and spoons or go online and find some cool music beats. Make up songs about the learning and have fun with it. You’ll be surprised how much fun you’ll have in the process.

Art and Colour Your visual learner may retain kno­w­l­edge better through creating a visual object rather than by reciting information.

If your child is learning about landforms in science, create your own landforms with papier-mâché or clay at home. Point out the differences of each landform as the student shapes

Pre-K to Grade 12 Grammar

Reading Study Skills

each one to look like a hill, mountain or valley.

Then add the details to each one. You can help your student to label the landforms and talk about them together.

Paint them and set up the project in your home as a display. The textures, colours and making-process will combine to assist your child with recalling information for up-coming exams.

Games Children who enjoy sports may also enjoy a game that allows them to move about while revising. Get out some chalk and write or draw the information with your child. Then as you ask them to recall the information let them jump

Writing Homework

or run to the words that are correct. Add up the points for correct tries and have fun. Children who are less sporty may enjoy creating their own board game on the class topic. Let the entire family play the game. It can be an entirely new game or a derivative of a familiar game suited to the class topic. In order to win the game the players need to know the trivia information.

These are a few ways in which studying and preparing for an exam can be fun and support your child’s learning style in the process. Allow your kids to experience the learning in engaging ways.

Try it this year and watch the anxiety in your household lessen as your kids begin to enjoy the revision process.

Happy studying!

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35

big kids

BY DR. JACOB SAGIE

Bedwetting No More!

Imagine you’re a ten-year-old about to spend your first year camping with friends; on an overnight summer camp or travelling aboard with friends, you’re filled with all the excitement that comes with that coming

N

of age experience. ow imagine you’re that same child but with the intense fear that you’re “secret” of regular bedwetting will be exposed to your roommates. Or even worse, you are the sixteen year old troop leader getting ready for an overnight trip and all you can do to avoid letting your scouts know about your bedwetting problem is to ‘accidentally’ spill water on your sleeping bag in the morning to hide your embarrassment.

This fear and anxiety of leaving the safety of home is one that hundreds of thousands of potential campers are facing this very moment while summer plans are being decided upon.

36

Despite it being one of the most prevalent childhood conditions, affecting close to 8 million children between the ages of 5 to 17 in the US alone, bedwetting is rarely properly diagnosed and treated. The result is parents and children being told there’s little to be done or “you’ll grow out of it eventually.”

But that doesn’t need to be the case, if we begin to better understand the nature of childhood bedwetting and how with relative ease it can be treated with enough time to be ‘summer ready’.

Bedwetting, with the exception of about one percent of cases where there is a physiological problem, is what we describe as a learning fault and stems from deep sleep. We simply need to train our brains to recognize the signal that comes from a full bladder and either wake up to go to the bathroom or contract the sphincter muscles to retain the release of the urine until you wake up in the morning.

Achieving this learned technique is essentially an issue of behavioral therapy whereby external stimuli, like an alarm, is activated when we wet our beds, and over time the brain is trained to respond without that stimuli.

Through my years of research and treating over 30,000 bedwetters, we have discovered that the combination of this type of stimuli coupled TOGETHER with behavioral therapy and a few key exercises that can be

done at home, and can increase the likelihood of dryness by ninety percent!

By starting a treatment program now, within a few months, you can successfully eliminate the issue all together instead of having to cover it up.

But if you find yourselves unprepared for that overnight sleepover, there are a few techniques that parents can implement to try and alleviate the stress involved. Doctors can prescribe a commonly used drug, DDAVP (Minirin), which works to reduce urine production during sleep and reduces the chance of bedwetting frequency. As with every drug, there can be side effects and might not work for every patient, and the condition can recur when you stop taking it.

Another option is using pull ups to avoid wet sheets and smelly beds. While I am usually quick to dismiss this recommendation since it doesn’t give the child an incentive to succeed in being dry on their own, but for the occasional bed wetter it can prove helpful. It will not prevent bedwetting but it can conceal it from the attention of others.

I personally know how frustrating it is to see a child wetting the bed night in and night out. I was that parent some thirtyfive years ago and it was that experience that helped me choose to specialize in psychophysiology of enuresis (bedwetting) and dedicate my career to helping people overcome this fixable condition.

But I also know the feeling of watching a child work to overcome bedwetting and the immense pride and confidence it can instill in them.

By taking the basic steps towards

By starting a treatment program now, within a few months, you can successfully eliminate the issue all together...

recognizing the realities of the condition, and with a few months of planning ahead, overnight trips will again become what it’s intended to be – carefree!

Dr. Jacob Sagie has been treating bedwetting for over thirty years in clinics around the world and is the creator of THERAPEE, an interactive web-based program for treating bedwetting. www.bedwettingtherapy.com

GoodNites

www.bermudaparent.bm

37

BPM

kids

Got a great picture of your child? Send it and it may appear in our next issue.

Send it in by email to photos@bermudaparent.bm

big kids

Pack up the Kids

AND HAVE SOME fun

West Beaches Somerset Long Bay Park & Nature Reserve Black Bay Beach & Park Lagoon Park Snorkel Park Beach Daniel’s Head Beach & Park Mangrove Bay Parson’s Bay Whale Bay Beach Church Bay Chaplin bay Stonehole Bay Jobson’s Cove Warwick Long Bay 40

this summer!

Activities Fun Golf Dolphin Quest Neptune Cinema Mini Golf @ Bermuda Golf Academy Warwick Lanes (Bowling) Spice Lands Riding School Warwick Playground Death Valley Playground

Exploring Heydon Trust Estate Scaur Hill Fort & Park Hog Bay Park Gibbs Hill Lighthouse Astwood Park Sherwin’s Nature Reserve Southland’s National Park

Central Beaches Elbow Public Beach Devonshire Bay & Park Spanish Point Beach (Pontons)

Water, it’s great for two!

Activities Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art BSMART Foundation Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute Bermuda Youth Library Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation Go Kintex

Exploring Botanical Gardens Camden Fort Hamilton Albouy’s Point Paget Marsh Victoria Park Par-la-ville Park Barr’s Bay Park Arboretum Butterfly House (Brighton Nurseries) Spittal Pond Nature Reserve Palm Groves Garden Admiralty House

East Beaches Shelly Bay Beach & Park (Playground) John Smith’s Bay Beach Fort St. Catherine Beach Tobacco Bay Beach Alexandra Battery Beach Drew’s Bay Whalebone Bay Beach Clearwater Beach Turtle Bay Long Bay Soldier’s Bay

Activities Bermuda Aquarium Museum & Zoo Crystal Caves & Fantasy Caves Strykz Bowling Lounge Pieceworks Mosaic Studio Mullet Bay Park Fort St. Catherine’s Bermuda Gymnastics Association

Gate’s Fort Tom Moore’s Jungle Coney Island Park & Nature Reserve Ordnance Island King’s Square Stokes Point Nature Reserve Ferry Reach Park Lover’s Lake Nature Reserve St. David’s Lighthouse Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve

Other Things TO DO This Summer

Pure water is clean, refreshing and free of impurities.

It’s the healthy choice for the whole family for a healthier life style.

Your body loses water during the day so it is essential to replenish it to get proper hydration to maintain your body’s mental and physical performance.

Did you know that Pure Water is tested daily in house. However filtered water is not.

Taste the Pure Difference 32 Parsons Lane, Devonshire Tel: 236-1288 Fax: 236-7784/299-2837 E-mail: purewater@bwl.bm

Do a SCIENCE EXPERIMENT Play in SPRINKLERS (outside Snorkel Park)

A DIVISION OF BERMUDA WATERWORKS LIMITED

Go FISHING Bake COOKIES Mail a LETTER Play with SIDEWALK CHALK Make PLAY DOUGH Paddle a KAYAK Go on a PADDLE BOARD Go CAMPING Watch a MOVIE IN THE BACKYARD Have a BBQ Get some FROZEN YOGURT or ICE CREAM Play with BUBBLES Do a 1,000 PIECE PUZZLE Have a SLEEPOVER Make ICE CREAM Play a BOARD GAME Go to a MOVIE THEATRE Have a PICNIC Go NIGHT SWIMMING Have a PLAYDATE Go see FIREWORKS

Exploring

Do a CRAFT PROJECT

Blue Hole Park Alexandra Battery

Eat BREAKFAST for DINNER

Make POPSICLES Sing to a KARAOKE MACHINE

www.bermudaparent.bm

41

big kids

BY ZACH MONIZ of Lindo’s Family Foods

Party PlanningIdeas A birthday party is a big deal for kids and parents, especially when it’s a milestone birthday. And if your kids are anything like mine, they count down the days and can’t wait until this special day.

But what kind of party will you plan this year? Luckily, there are a lot of options in Bermuda available for that perfect party for your child and his or her friends, from the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, to laser tag, and even mini golf.

Whether your child is an animal lover or prefers something with a bit more action, the possibilities are endless.

Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo The Aquarium is the perfect place to host a birthday party if your child is an 42

animal lover. Not only are the children able to tour the various exhibits and visit animals on the grounds, but also partygoers can enjoy fun and interactive activities. Party packages are based on age categories starting at age four, ages five and six and ages seven to 10.

All parties start at $300 for up to 10 children and are all-inclusive with drinks, pizza or sandwiches, cake, cutlery and a party hostess. Family membership in the Bermuda Zoological Society is required to book parties and they are held on Saturdays or Sundays.

The parties are in three categories: Craft Party for four-year-olds, Animal Encounter Party for five and six-yearolds and Behind the Scenes Party for seven to ten-year-olds.

Activities for the craft party include feeding the turtles and making crafts.

For the animal encounter, kids feed the turtles and have two up-close animal encounters. Older kids will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds.

All parties require the parents of the birthday child and one other parent. For more information, contact BAMZ on 293-2727.

Lazer Quest Maybe your child likes a bit more action and a laser tag party would be perfect for him or her. Lazer Quest provides outdoor laser tag and will

come to wherever your party is for ages seven and up.

The standard package is $300 for two hours and up to 14 players.

Extra players can be added for $20 per player but Lazer Quest recommends a maximum of 14 players so that no one has to wait to have a turn to play.

Extra time can also be added for $100 an hour.

Various games can be played including last man standing, capture the flag, king of the hill and more.

Camouflage clothing is encouraged and sneakers or boots are a must.

For more information on Lazer Quest, visit www.lazerquestbermuda.com or call 505-2575.

Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute If your child is into pirates or luaus, a party at the BUEI might be just the right thing.

Themed parties are $350 for 12 children and include a themed party room, free entry to all the exhibits, unlimited carousel rides, a variety of games and activities and more. It also includes pizza or sandwiches, juice boxes and bottled water.

There are various add-ons available for your party packages including invitations, tropical necklaces, loot bags and more. Extra children are $10 each and there is a maximum of 20 children.

Parties are only offered to members of BUEI and payment must be made in advance of the party. For more information, contact Wendy Wilson on 294-0209.

Fun Golf If mini golf sounds like a great party idea, why not head up to Fun Golf in Dockyard for a great birthday party.

Kids golf for $12 per round and adults for $15 per round.

The course is 18 holes and takes about an hour to complete. Holes are played in groups of four of five players.

Fun golf does not have food on site but catering can be arranged with Livio Ferigo at Bonefish Bar and Grill with options such as pizza, pasta, chicken nuggets and burgers. You are also welcomed to bring in your own food and Fun Golf will provide a table where you can set it out.

For more information, call Jill Kowalchuk on 400-7888.

Food Ideas With the perfect party, you will also need the perfect food. Here are a few tips to make sure your party food is a hit.

Serve Familiar Foods: Make sure the food is simple and recognizable.

This is not the time to introduce new food to children. If your child likes pizza, serve it because it’s easy and something that most kids love.

Make It Finger-Friendly: Finger food is the best idea for kids’ birthday parties. You don’t want them having to use forks to eat. If you go with sandwiches, use cookie cutters to make shapes to

make them more fun and interesting.

Pick a Theme: If you are using a theme for the party, incorporate that into the food with creative naming of the items, special cakes and drinks. If your son is a Mickey Mouse fan, you can start with hot dogs to go with “The Hot Dog Song” on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. If your daughter likes princesses, serve only pink food and maybe even have a tea party.

Let the Food Be Part of the Party: If you want another activity, let the kids get in on food prep. If you are serving pizza, have them make their own mini

We carry a large supply of party decorations and supplies for your special occasion

PARTY PLUS 63 South Road - Devonshire DV 08

236-7244

partyplusbda@hotmail.com

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 9am-5pm Sun 10am-1pm www.bermudaparent.bm

43

Do you have a child under 5?

Come and check out Bermuda’s newest indoor play area for children under 5.

Ball pit Dress ups Play tent Tunnels Gross motor soft play area Ride ons and more!

Located at the National Sports Centre in Devonshire.

Open Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9am-12pm (We will pop up from time to time on the weekends too check facebook & website for most up to date schedule)

We also do Birthday Parties!

English muffin pizzas. If you plan to serve cupcakes, let them decorate with tons of toppings. You can even have an ice cream sundae bar; just make sure you supervise it.

Make It Fun: As a former kid, I know that kids love to play with their food. Set out an assortment of dips for chicken fingers, raw vegetables or even fruit. They will love the options and the colours.

Keep It Safe: You don’t want anyone to get sick, especially at a kids party. Make sure to ask about any dietary restriction or allergies beforehand. If that isn’t an option, avoid nuts and seafood.

Another thing to keep in mind with party food is to try and keep it moderately healthy. Taco bars, fruit kebobs, cheese and crackers platters, vegetable platters and make-your-own sandwich bars are all very good options.

And instead of chips and dip, why not try hummus and pita chips as a healthy alternative? Also, make sure you

have tons of water on hand for all those thirsty kids.

Another tip is to label all your food so that everyone knows what they are eating, especially if there are dips and sauces involved.

The most important part is to have fun no matter what kind of party you choose so your child and his or her friends will create memories for a lifetime.

As grandson to Lindo’s Group of Companies founders Harry and Marion Lindo, Zach Moniz has been with the company for more than 35 years. Zach serves as the IT Manager and assists with marketing and promotion for both store locations. For more information, visit www.lindos.bm.

Do you know that we make

CAKES FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS? FOR ALL YOUR

PERSONALIZED & PARTY NEEDS Telephone: 292-2638

24 hours notice required

Island Spice Restaurant SCRAPBOOK BOUTIQUE

WHERE IMAGINATION AND CREATIVITY RULE /bermudaplayroom

www.islandspice.bm

Middle Road Warwick

tel: 504-5857 info@bermudaplayroom.com www.bermudaplayroom.com 44

238-7944 238-7944

Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat: 11:00am - 10pm • Sundays: 3:00pm - 9:00pm islandspice.bm

Telephone: 292-2638 8 Kings Square, St. George’s info@surprise.bm www.surprise.bm

When you were young, you wanted adults to: ✓ Believe

in You ✓ Encourage You ✓ Spend Time With You ✓ Love You The same rests true with youth today.

TAKE A STAND FOR YOUTH! VOLUNTEER! Give us the things you said you wanted!

For more information on becoming a Mirrors volunteer or to support the Stand for Youth Campaign, please call (441) 294-9291 or email mirrors@gov.bm

Movie Birthday Parties

Birthday Package includes:

Having a Party?

exclusivity to your party so you can better • Theatre enjoy the movie. Watch one of the movies currently showing at the theatre or bring your own, we do the rest.

Candy and Drinks (fountain soda) • Popcorn, for children and small popcorn and small drink for adults.

• Free refills during the movie and cake time. charge for children under 3 years. For • No every 10 children, free admission for 1 adult. the theatre for up to 30 minutes after the • Use movie for cake and candies. All you supply is the

cake or have it made by our own pastry chef. We do the clean up.

Note: For parties booked on a Sunday or Holidays there is an additional charge of $100 Pizza Trays are available as well as other Finger Foods.

Pizza Trays available 24 hrs notice required Reasonable Prices Email or call for pricing

Times and Prices:

are booked daily between 9am and • Parties 2pm (Party has to be completed by 2pm) $100 deposit is due at booking. If you • Amust cancel due to illness or weather, the

deposit may be used to reschedule. Balance due at end of party.

parties $285.00 for the first 10 children, • 3D $14 each additional child and $14 each additional adult.

parties $265.00 for the first 10 • 2D/DVD children, $12 each additional child and $12 each additional adult

specialitymovies@northrock.bm

295-2751 ext 3

(ask for Event Coordinator)

www.bermudaparent.bm

45

tweens & teens

BY ALICIA RESNIK

tweens &pregnancy teens

Summer is Here:

Are You & Your Teen Sexually Wise?

It’s time to talk with your teenager. Share this article. Start a conversation.

Teenagers are not adults. They need to be educated and protected against sexual abuse.

One in three girls and one in five boys will experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 16.

“We are all a part of this community and we can strengthen it by coming together and doing something.

Let’s take responsibility, let’s take action and let’s do something,” Ms. Patrice Frith Hayward, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Centre.

Who sexually abuses adolescents?

We often think of molesters as people hanging around playgrounds and neighborhoods trying to lure victims with offers of car rides and candy. The truth - the majority of adolescents are abused by someone they know. This may be a friend, a peer, a girlfriend or boyfriend, someone in the family or someone who is known by the family. Abusers can also be acquaintances (neighbors, coaches, teachers, religious leaders). Abusers are often people we view as stable, employed, respected members of the community.

Sex offenders spend time and energy “grooming” their victims. Grooming means the molester gains the trust and confidence of their victim and often their victim’s family. Some common ways of grooming are: • They pay attention to teens, making them feel special.

• They isolate their victim by involving them in fun activities so they can be together alone.

• They get to know their victim’s likes and dislikes.

• They gain the trust of the victim’s family. They often touch a teenager in your presence so your teen will think you’re okay with this behavior.

• They may use the internet, gaming and cell phones to contact your teen.

• They buy gifts your teen may like – this can include alcohol or drugs.

• They may encourage your teen to keep secrets.

• They may encourage your teen to look at pornography.

• They often prey upon the teenager who lacks a father figure or a stable home.

Parents of abused adolescents often say they found the molester’s interest in their child strange but, found it difficult to

www.bermudaparent.bm

47

believe this was the type of person who would “do such a thing.”

Talk openly with your teen. Share the facts. Let them know they can talk to you about anything—with no fear of ridicule, shame, anger, or embarrassment. Knowing they can trust you will help your teen have a better sense of confidence and make them less vulnerable to sexual abuse.

No means no!

Summer vacation is here. Our teens want to be with their friends, go to parties, date, hang-out in town and at the beach. Teenagers are learning about sex. Their sources may not be the best and they may not be getting the facts.

Start an on-going, open dialogue about sex, sexual coercion and sexual abuse.

Most teens are pressured, or forced, to have sex by someone they know and trust. Most teens blame themselves when something happens. They don’t understand that saying no doesn’t make them “uncool.” They don’t understand they have personal rights and boundaries. Teach your teen that unwanted behavior from anyone is unacceptable.

Teenagers should understand: • Their bodies are theirs.

• They don’t have to do anything they don’t want to do.

• They don’t have to do something just because their friends are.

• It’s not okay to engage in sexual behavior with adults.

• It’s not okay for anyone to take pictures of them undressed or in sexual positions.

• No one has the right to touch them anywhere without their permission.

• They have the right to say no. Past permission doesn’t obligate future activity.

• Pornography is not a depiction of real life.

• Touching someone sexually while they are drunk is abuse.

• Adults should never discuss sexual fantasies or share pornography with them.

• Not everyone’s having sex. Many 48

teens wait and that’s okay.

Studies show that low self-esteem is a pivotal factor in risky teenage behavior. Teens that lack self-confidence, or feel they don’t have support at home, turn to others for attention. They don’t feel they can say “no.” This thinking makes them more likely to be targeted.

They are also are more likely to go along with abuse because they crave the attention and rewards their abuser gives them. Make sure your teen knows to tell you if anyone approaches them in an inappropriate sexual manner – or in any manner they find intrusive or uncomfortable.

Be Aware!

Teenagers have often been the victims of unwanted sexual advances and behaviors because they think it won’t happen to them. Educate your teenager about how sexual assault happens.

Warning signs: • Someone who tries to isolate them from friends and family or tries to get them alone in a deserted place.

• Someone who tries to give them gifts, food, drugs, alcohol or who tries to involve them in inappropriate activities.

• Someone who isn’t respecting their personal limits and boundaries. No means no!

• Teens have been sexually assaulted because they “froze.” They went along with the assault because they didn’t know how to protect themselves. Encourage your teenager to “trust their gut.” If something doesn’t feel right, or they’re feeling pressured, trust those feelings and get out of the situation immediately.

• Don’t do things you don’t want to do because you’re scared to make a scene or because you’re embarrassed. Don’t worry about hurting someone’s feelings; they aren’t worried about yours.

• Make sure your parents always know where you are and who you’re with. Let a trusted friend or

lewd, or indecent, report this to the police immediately.

Check your teenager’s accounts and history – Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, BeBo, Flixster, Meetup, Tagged, Tumblr, Instagram, Snapchat, video game forum accounts, YouTube, Skype, e-mails and cell phones. Shut down anything inappropriate.

• Be a sleuth – “google” your teen’s name to see how much information is out there. If you can find something, so can a predator.

In 82% of online sex crimes against children, the abuser used their victim’s social networking sites to get information.

•

family member know about any change in plans.

Drugs and drinking equals not thinking! Drugs and alcohol impair your ability to think clearly leaving you vulnerable to sexual abuse.

• Arrive and leave with your friends. Never go anywhere alone. Never accept rides from strangers.

It’s important to listen to your teen. Treat their concerns and feelings with respect. Give them positive attention. You reduce the risk of your teen becoming a victim by letting them know you are always there to support and protect them – no matter what.

In all cases, a person who sexually molests a child is making a choice to commit the offense. They know their actions are wrong. They are abusing your child for their own sexual gratification.

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improving quality of life

Online Safety!

With summer vacation our teens have more time to spend online. The internet provides them with information, entertainment and ways to keep in touch with friends. It also provides predators an opportunity to meet your teen.

Statistics show that 1 in 25 teenagers have received online sexual solicitation.

Safeguard your teen by: • Educate yourself. Set rules for acceptable online behavior. This includes when your teen can be online, who they can interact with, what activities they can participate in and how long they can be online for.

• Teach your teen that internet safety means never giving out personal information (about themselves and others) to anyone. This includes never creating a user ID that reveals their name, age, sex, birthday or year of graduation. Offenders can do online searches for victims using this information.

• Tell your teen never to click on links contained within an email sent from an address they don’t recognize.

These can lead to sexually explicit websites.

• Many teens feel invincible and protected in their virtual world. This isn’t true! Tell your teen not to respond to emails, chat comments or newsgroup messages that are hostile, belligerent, inappropriate, or in any way make them uncomfortable.

• If your teen receives a message or image that is obscene,

Darkness to Light Stewards of Children Training Monthly training session:

June 28th, August 23rd, September 13th To register email: training@scars.bm SCARS can bring the training to your organization or home

www.bermudaparent.bm

49

T N E PAR

S T N E PARWHY ENCOURAGE THEM TO WAIT?

WHY ENCOURAGE YOUR TEENS TO WAIT?

BECAUSE

BECAUSE

IS THE LAW IS YOU THE ARE THE PARENTS. AND

LAW AND YOU ARE www.dndc.gov.bm

THE PARENTS THIS IS A SOBERING REMINDER BROUGHT TO YOU

BY THE DEPARTMENT FOR NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL

Ministry of National Security Department for National Drug Control

Suite 304, Melbourne House 11 Parliament Street Hamilton HM 12 441.292.3049 | dndc.gov.bm

BPM tweens and teens

Got a great picture of your child? Send it and it may appear in our next issue.

Send it in by email to photos@bermudaparent.bm

Summer has arrived and many of you will be enjoying your National Parks over the upcoming holidays. We want to emphasize that swimming at the beach can be extremely fun however beach patrons must be prepared and sensible whenever in or near the ocean.

Who is at risk for drowning? Everyone.

However, children have the highest risk for drowning worldwide. Risks include inadequate supervision, inability to swim, and unrealistic expectations of children by guardians regarding water safety.

Be safe and make good judgments about your beach activities this summer.

REMEMBER - Slip on a shirt. When out in the sun, wear protective clothing of tightly woven fabrics that you can’t see through when held up to the light.

Slap on a hat. Have fun choosing one and make sure it protects your face and back of your neck. Bucket shaped hats are great for kids. Slop on sunscreen. SPF30 or higher, apply everyday 30 minutes to one hour before you go out. Dry and re-apply every 2 hours if possible, especially after swimming and exercising. ALWAYS BE CAREFUL BE SAFE THIS SUMMER

THE WATER SAFETY CODE Spot the danger

2014 CUP MATCH CAMPING

• Are Lifeguards on duty at your beach?

• Know the general beach conditions: are there high surf conditions, is it shallow enough to stand, is it deep enough to jump, are there rip currents or any other currents, what is the tide like, is it busy?

• Are there any dangerous marine animals present such as Portuguese Man-of-War? • Are there any boating (including personal watercraft) activities near your swimming area?

• Even if you are only near the water, take extra care.

The Cup Match Holiday is a very busy time for camping and picnicking at the Government parks and beaches. Therefore, the Ministry of Environment and Planning in conjunction with the Department of Parks, have established a few guidelines for those who wish to camp outside the 3 designated campgrounds - Ferry Point, Chaplin Bay and Higgs & Horseshoe Islands.

Take Safety Advice • Choose swimming areas where there is Lifeguard coverage.

• Know the weather forecast before leaving home.

• Make note of any warning signs or safety flags at beaches.

Don’t Go It Alone • Never swim alone.

• Children must always have direct and close adult supervision while in or near the water at all times.

Learn How to Help • Do you know what to do in an emergency?

• Shout for help and alert a Lifeguard.

• Telephone emergency services (911) if there are no Lifeguards present.

• Do not enter the water to rescue someone unless trained to do so.

• Take in a water safety workshop and get certified in CPR & First Aid to be part of the solution for a safe summer at the beach.

DESIGNATED SWIMMING ONLY These areas are marked by large orange buoys and NO marine traffic including personal watercraft is allowed in these areas at anytime. These areas include Clearwater and Turtle Beach, Coopers Island Nature Reserve, Shelly Bay, Admiralty House Park/Clarence Cove.

The major reforestation and environmental project at Coney Island is still ongoing. Therefore the park is CLOSED to camping. It will be restricted to picnicking only.

There will be NO CAMPING at Blue Hole Park / Nature Reserve or Coopers Island Nature Reserve at the old NASA site. There is also NO CAMPING on the DUNE immediately behind Jobsons’ Cove in South Shore Park. This dune area has rare sensitive plants that need to be protected. There is a sign erected advising park users of this policy.

NO tents or ropes to mark spots are permitted to be erected on Monday 28th July 2014. Tents and ropes found erected at the parks and beaches on this date will be taken down by the Department of Parks.

Campers may erect tents and tarps on Tuesday 29th July 2014 to secure their preferred spot. However, no one will be permitted to camp on this date. Please do not erect tents in front of the park and beach access gates.

Camping WILL be permitted from

Wednesday 30th July until Sunday 3rd August 2014.

Park gates will be opened during the day on 30th July 2014 to allow campers and picnickers the opportunity to set up. Park Rangers will be on duty until 10 p.m. Wednesday 30th July 2014 and will begin locking the gates at 9:30 p.m.

For the safety of park users, ALL vehicles must be removed from the parks and placed in the designated parking lots.

Park Rangers will also be on duty both days of Cup Match, Thursday 31st July and Friday 1st August 2014, from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. and the weekend Saturday 2nd August and Sunday 5th August 2014, from 9:30 am to 6 pm to assist park users.

Lifeguards will be on duty at Clearwater Beach, Turtle Beach, John Smith’s Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Long Bay at Coopers Island Nature Reserve from 10 am to 6 pm. throughout the holiday period.

The following beaches have safe swimming zones designated by buoys where boats and personal watercrafts are not permitted to enter; Clarence Cove at Admiralty House Park, Shelley Bay, Clearwater Beach, Turtle Bay, and Long Bay at Coopers Island. Operators of vessels are asked to adhere to these safety zones.

Dogs on Public Beaches and in Parks The Department of Parks is reminding dog owners, handlers, and the general public that the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations and Policies under the jurisdiction of the 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act have changed, regarding dogs in parks and on the public beaches.

The Department of Parks maintenance crews will also be working from 6:00 am until 3:00 pm. both days of the Cup Match Holiday, as well as the weekend, to collect trash, rake beaches and clean toilets.

Access gates must be kept clear at ALL times.

The Regulations and Policies are as follows: • As of the 1st April 2014, dogs are NOT PERMITTED to be on any of the public beaches until the 31st October 2014.

We ask the owners / drivers of vehicles to please use common sense and DO NOT PARK in front of the access gates. They must be kept clear so that Department of Parks maintenance vehicles and Emergency vehicles, including Police, Fire, and Ambulance can gain access at ALL times.

• Dogs can be walked either on the trails, in Parks or on the dunes, in South Shore Park at any time.

• The dogs must be on a leash at ALL times.

• As a reminder dogs are NOT PERMITTED in the Main Show Ring in Botanical Gardens. Signs are erected informing the public of the closure.

Offending ve hicles will be ticketed, clamped and towed at the owners’ expense in order to clear the blocked gates.

In addition there are private residences at John Smiths Bay Park and the access road must be kept clear for tenants.

• Members of the general public are reminded that Botanical Gardens is closed to the public at sundown each day.

ALL CAMPING EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PARKS AND BEACHES BY MONDAY 5th AUGUST 2014. ALL EQUIPMENT LEFT AFTER THIS DATE WILL BE CONSIDERED ABANDONED AND WILL BE DISPOSED OF BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS.

• For health and safety reasons dogs are NOT ALLOWED on the playgrounds at Clearwater Beach, Mullet Bay Park, Shelly Bay Park, Parsons Road, Admiralty House Park, Warwick Long Bay, Somerset Long Bay and Death Valley.

• Dogs are also NOT PERMITTED in the new Coopers Island Nature Reserve where the NASA Tracking Station was located.

The cooperation of the general public during the busy 2014 Cup Match Holiday would be greatly appreciated by the staff of the Department of Parks. In addition, please be considerate and respectful of your neighbours, including those who stay adjacent to the parks and beaches. Music must be played at reasonable levels that will not disturb other park and beach users or residents.

For further information please contact the Department of Parks, Park Ranger Office at 236-5902 or 239-2355.

The Minister and the Permanent Secretary, of the Ministry of Environment and Planning, and the Director and Staff, of the Department of Parks, wish the general public a safe and enjoyable 2014 Cup Match Holiday.

Horses in Parks and on Public Beaches The Department of Parks is informing stables, horse owners, handlers, and the general public that the 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations under the jurisdiction of the 1986 Bermuda National Parks Act will change regarding horses on the public beaches.

The Regulations are as follows: • As of the 1st May 2014 until the 31st October 2014 horses are NOT PERMITTED to be on any beach in South Shore Park ( inclusive of the following beaches; Horseshoe Bay, Peel Bay, Butt’s Beach, Wafer Rocks Beach, Chaplin Bay, Stonehole Bay, Jobson’s Cove and Warwick Long Bay) Johns Smith’s Bay, Elbow Beach and Shelly Bay. • From the 1st May 2014 until the 31st October 2014, owners and handlers of horses may take or ride the horses on all other public beaches with the following restrictions; owners and handlers can ONLY take or ride the horses below the high water mark between the hours or 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.

• Horses can be on the trails and dunes in South Shore Park at any time.

The cooperation of stable owners, as well as horse owners and handlers, in abiding by the 1988 Regulations, is greatly appreciated.

1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations

The cooperation of dog owners and handlers in abiding by the Regulations and Policies is greatly appreciated. 1988 Bermuda National Park Regulations.

If further information is required please contact the Department of Parks at 236-5902.

The Park Ranger Service would like to advise all Park/ Beach patrons to be mindful of the rules and regulations outlined for recreational open fires as mandated

by The Bermuda National Parks Act 1986 and The Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988.

Please draw your attention to the following rules in accordance with the Bermuda National Parks Act • • •

•

1986 and the Bermuda National Parks Regulations 1988.

Bonfires must be housed in or on a metal apparatus (e.g. a metal barbeque).

Bonfires must be thoroughly extinguished and properly disposed (see steps 1-4 below) of at the conclusion of the period granted by the permit.

Steps to properly extinguish and dispose of Bonfires: 1. Allow wood to burn completely to ash and/or cool embers.

2. Continuously flood with water until hissing sound stops, then stir ashes and embers with a shovel until apparatus is cool enough for safe handling (this step may need to be repeated several times).

3. DO NOT BURY THE FIRE PIT as the fire may continue to smolder and possibly reignite causing potential harm to self, others and surrounding environment.

4. Once cool enough to handle, remove metal apparatus and place next to the nearest Parks trash bin.

Special points to note; • Bonfires must be continuously under the care and direction of a competent adult 18 years or older.

• Bonfires must be held on beaches only.

• Only utilize dry wood for bonfire use (e.g. drift wood).

• The use of fully assembled pellets as a burning platform is strictly prohibited.

• No glass bottles are to be burned or disposed of in the bonfire.

Celebrating Dads I

could not pass on the opportunity to celebrate my husband, Jason Hollis, a new outstanding father. Jason became a father on January 6th 2014 to a beautiful baby girl named Avalon. Jason’s dedication to being a father started way before Avalon was born. He enthusiastically participated in conscious birthing classes and even made birth art and a belly cast with me. I was once told “Happy Mother equals Happy Baby.” This is very accurate, but it should also mention how much the father helps create this happiness. Jason is always rising to the occasion and provides us with endless love and support. I feel blessed to have a husband like Jason and even a little spoiled. Jason has quickly bonded with his little pumpkin and has lots of plans for their future together. I want to thank this magazine for celebrating fathers, and letting me tell Bermuda about a special one.

Beth Hollis

I

am celebrating my daddy, Wesley “Big Snipes” Hall. He is an amazing, talented and fun dad who loves God, his family and music.

My daddy is awesome to me for many reasons but I will share two. When I was born I was delivered outside on the hospital sidewalk. My daddy was able to catch me when I was born. He removed the cord from around my neck held me close till I took my first breath and when I opened my eyes he was the first face I saw. “My HERO!” The other reason is that my daddy who is also known as ‘Big Snipes’ is a role model to many of Bermuda’s school kids and adults. He is a local artist who loves his craft/gift and enjoys sharing his music of encouragement and God’s love. It is amazing to see him perform but also to hear the reaction from the people. From the kids to the adults they all encourage him to continue to write more songs.

Daddy, we love you and are so very proud of you. God has a purpose and plan for you to us.

Thank you for being you.

Love Samiyah Hall 54

KERIN ORAL CARE General Dentistry & Oral Medicine Practice

T

he day Luis and I found out we were pregnant he has been nothing but amazing! We went through a very rough pregnancy, from the start. Being diagnosed with sub chronic hemorrhage, meant I had to be on bed rest for quite some time and I was high risk for pre-eclampsia. Luis attended every doctor’s visit and ultra sound, asking questions and videotaping, so that, the twins could watch in the future.

He would talk to the twins in my belly to encourage me to keep positive and stay strong throughout the pregnancy. Our twins were delivered at 35 weeks by emergency C-Section due to pre-eclampsia. Again, Luis was by my side through everything, from rushing me to the hospital to holding my hand through the delivery and while I was in ICU, coming every morning and staying past visiting hours to be with me and the twins.

Luis helps me with everything and is very involved with our twins, even going beyond his fair share. Everyday he comes with me to pick up the twins from the sitter, he helps me give them their meals and participates in bath time, he plays with them on their swing set that he built for them, and he sings to them and just enjoys being daddy to them. When the twins see him, their faces light up with excitement! I can go on and on about how wonderful Luis is, he is an amazing father! He is very supportive, caring, patient and so loving to our family.

Rio Tomaz

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We care for you & the little ones too!

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Mon-Thur 8:30am - 5:00pm Fri: 8:30am - 3:30pm 2 Southcourt Avenue, Paget

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55

Paychecks and Playchecks:

You work hard for your money; make it work for you!

Learn how to overcome human nature to save money for life’s important events, without having to give up the things you enjoy the most.

Why is it so difficult to save for the future? It’s the conundrum that most 30, 40 and 50 year olds grapple with. I know my husband and I find it challenging. We, like many young(ish) couples, have a mortgage, two kids and are just starting to worry about retirement. The joys of turning 40!

The answer isn’t that we’re all short-sighted and greedy. Behavioural finance experts, Shlomo Benartzi and Richard Thaler, tell us that there are three main reasons why saving for those long-term financial goals – a comfortable retirement, educational savings for your children, wealth accumulation – is so challenging.

BY LISA LEWIS, BSC

Horizon Plan

The New BF&M Horizon Profiles Whether it’s your retirement, your child’s education, or your first house, you have a time frame for achieving your investment goals.

BF&M Investment Service is licensed to conduct investment business by the BMA under the Investment Business Act of 2003.

The BF&M Horizon Profiles provide a simple investment solution allowing you to select a profile based on when you need your funds. The profiles automatically become more conservative as your financial time horizon nears.

The Horizon Profiles make your investment selection easy and provide you with an optimal asset mix at each stage in your investment timeline.

For more information call 295-5566.

BF&M GENERAL | BF&M LIFE

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56

295-5566

bfm@bfm.bm

www.bfm.bm

likes did my recent status update on Facebook get? Who commented on my recent ‘selfie’? So why would our economic choices be any different that our social choices. In short, it’s getting even more difficult to save for a future that we are less and less focused on.

So how can we overcome our natural biases?

The present bias Our brains are hardwired to focus on the present and nearfuture. Long-term planning is actually an unnatural act that requires outsmarting our brain’s natural focus on the ‘here and now’. Your intention may be to save $500 a month for the next 18 years so that your one year old can go to college.

The reality? Summer BBQs are on the calendar, car payment is due, your vacation needs to be booked and summer camp fees are outstanding. You think to yourself: I’ll start the payment plan after the summer.

Our default is to indulge ourselves now while at the same time promise virtuous choices for our future selves (see Shlomo’s example of choosing chocolate over bananas in his 2011 TED talk titled “Saving More Tomorrow).

Inertia Inertia is also a powerful deterrent to long-term savings.

When overwhelmed or confused (think about the process of selecting investment options, completing multiple forms and questionnaires, finding a financial advisor that suits your needs), humans would rather do nothing. Procrastination is common when effort is required.

Loss Aversion Perhaps the most interesting insight is humans’ reaction to saving. Rather than view it as saving, we mentally and emotionally frame savings as a loss. This is because it means we can’t spend it now on things we want. The growing need for immediate gratification and affirmation compounds the issue, impacting our expectations and behaviours. How many

• Be aware of the facts. When I meet with clients, a large number of them are surprised at the future cost of college education, or how much life insurance they need to offset their current financial risks. The same also goes for retirement. Do you know how much you need to save to adequately prepare for retirement? According to Fidelity Investments, it’s at least eight times your final salary.

• Adopt an autopilot approach. While there has been much discussion about Bermuda’s pension plans recently, the bottom line is mandating contributions from both employees and employers has puts us in better stead for the future than many of our American cousins, where neither is required.

But is it enough? Borrowing from the Saving More Tomorrow (SMarT) concept (Thaler and Benartzi), consider making voluntary contributions by pre-committing to increase your contribution rate at the same time you receive a pay raise.

The result: your take-home pay doesn’t go down, but you’re saving more for your retirement. The added benefit to voluntary contributions is you are able to take this money out as a lump sum when you need to.

• Overcome the inertia. Set up an individual prescribed pension account with your pension provider of choice, which offers you additional flexibility and diversification from your current pension plan or make voluntary contributions to your existing pension plan. This is as easy as talking to your HR department who will automatically deduct it from your pay.

So what now?

In a recent survey of 400 random Bermudians, their number one concern was not saving enough for retirement. How can you ensure that your paychecks turn into playchecks at retirement? Talk to a financial advisor who will help you complete a financial needs analysis as a first step to determining your current financial realities, and how well these are aligned to your future dreams and financial objectives. Together you can develop an effective roadmap of the financial future for you and your family. Doesn’t it make sense to take a couple of hours per year to plan for the rest of your life!

Lisa Lewis, BSc, is a financial professional of BF&M. With over 14 years in the re/insurance industry, she helps advise individuals and families of how to relieve the burden of unexpected and longterm risks. Lisa can be contacted on 2980229 or llewis@bfm.bm. www.bermudaparent.bm

57

Paying for my child’s education You define your goals. We help you reach them.

Start the journey towards achieving your goals today.

Call 299 5959 to make a Financial Planning appointment.

Visit www.hsbc.bm/planning Issued by HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited which is licensed to conduct Banking and Investment Business by the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

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