Parenting Today July 2017

July 2017

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GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CONTENTS

M. Anthony Shaw

Fruity & Fun: Mangoes

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Open Lunchbox: What’s Inside?

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Bullying: Signs and Solutions

10

Promoting Positive Behaviour

12

Social Media and Our Children

14

Insuring Your Child

18

Caring For Baby

20

Eric Smith

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Teaching Your Child Financial Responsibility 22 BMEX 2017: Innovative Solutions

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EDITOR’S NOTE When I was growing up among the common sayings heard was ‘it takes a village to raise as child’, and from experience, I can say my mother’s information network spread widely. Who needed cellular phones or social media?

The network, I guess informed by a sense social responsibility, was effective and kept us young ones in check for the most part. Not only did this network monitor the vulnerable children but it also protected them from predators as the community knew who they were and often acted to protect the impressionable. This is not to say some things did not slip though, but there was worth in knowing there was a brother’s keeper.

These days our village is global and the mentality has changed, our children have far greater access to influences both positive and negative through the world wide web, that many, particularly those over 60s, find hard to effectively police.

A useful tool, the internet educates and entertains, but on the other side it also influences, misinforms and privately opens avenues to abuse that can damage the lives of adults and children.

Our primary focus in this edition of Parenting Today is trained on social media and children, but there’s much more covered within to inform and entertain. From nutrition to craft, to finance, the assortment is too diverse to list all here.

Browse the contents, pick your favourite and start there. I’m sure at the end you will read all on offer.

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Parenting Today is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of the Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions. This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without the explicit permission of the Publisher. For general information email: parentingtoday@nationnews.com. ©2015 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED

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TR KA INA

NUTRITION

ELL

MANGOES

F R A N C I S -W O R R

fruity + fun:

GETTING A CHILD to eat fruits can be a battle for some parents. In this fruity and fun series we will focus on some local fruits and creative ways to prepare them that will keep your child asking for more!

We begin with mangoes.

You never have to ask if mangoes are in season in Barbados. You see them in abundance on the trees, in the supermarkets and even being sold on the streets. So grab a few and try these tasty and delicious treats for your family: 1. Smoothie: Throw your diced mango in the blender with a banana, yogurt and some orange juice for a fruit smoothie.

8. Mango Chips: Thinly slice the mango and bake it until it is dried to create mango chips.

2. Fruit Parfait: Layer the mango with yogurt, raisins and whole grain granolas.

9. Mango Cheesecake: Add mangoes to your cheesecake mix for a tropical flavour.

3. Mango Pancakes: Stir pureed mangoes into your pancake batter. No syrup is needed!

10. Oats & Mango: Add mangoes to your oats for a delightful spin on a traditional breakfast meal.

4. Peanut Butter & Mango: Add a tropical twist to the traditional peanut butter & jam. Top your peanut butter and bread with slices of mango instead.

5. Fruit Kebob: Create a kebob using bite-sized pieces of mango, grapes, watermelon and cantaloupe.

6. Salsa Dip: Combine mango, avocado, cilantro, salt and lime juice to make a delicious dip!

7. Fruit Salad: Create a fruit salad with watermelon, grapes bananas and mangoes.

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

PARENTING VALUES SPICES OF PARENTING outcomes for the child, and in all aspects of the SPICES of life.

Communication between parent and child is a significant aspect of child development because good behaviour in children is enhanced when there is positive communication.

In today’s changing environment, there is much concern regarding the fact that the majority of parents are spending less time interacting with children and addressing their emotional needs. Parents therefore need to make an effort to spend time with their children, through daily conversations.

Household chores can also be done together, as this is one of the methods of teaching children the importance of responsibility and independence.

It is also very important for parents to listen to their children, really listen, by giving them their undivided attention, because children are extremely perceptive and they know when they are not receiving full and undivided attention. Provide guidance but be careful not to force your opinions on your children. Let your children know that he or she can confide in you and that you will not judge them.

Parents as their children’s first role models should strive to impart positive values and social skills and demonstrate positive actions at all times. Children are more impacted by the actions of their parents in terms of what they do, as opposed to what they say. Children keenly observe and internalize the values of their parents and other caregivers – these can be positive or negative.

Prepared by Sheila Stuart, Director, PAREDOS

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.

This special feature is brought to you compliments of Sagicor Life Inc.

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

ADVERTORIAL

The goal of Parent Education for Development in Barbados (PAREDOS) is to educate parents in all aspects of child rearing practices, and provide support through its parent education and support programme to enable parents to positively impact the lives of their children. PAREDOS aims to enhance family life and to empower parents to be more effective in parenting through a number of outreach programmes including the provision of information, education and counselling.

PAREDOS focuses on the SPICES that add flavour to parenting and contribute to the development of positive and long-lasting family relationships. The SPICES represent the Spiritual (prayers and devotion); Physical (outdoor activities including play); Intellectual (education); Cultural (creative/ arts/play); Emotional and Social (ethics and values) aspects of parenting; and child development. A child’s cognitive development during early childhood begins from the moment a child is born and includes the development of skills such as the coordination of creeping/walking, pre-reading, language, vocabulary, and numeracy.

Children’s development is affected by multiple interacting factors and dynamics at the individual, familial and societal levels. A significant predictor of the outcomes of cognitive development in children is the involvement of parents in the lives of their children. Parents and caregivers influence and lay the foundation for critical childhood development. Parents are their children’s first teachers, nurturers and guidance counsellors. Parental involvement in activities such as play and reading, which are important markers in the stimulation and cognitive development of children, often leads to better

OPEN LUNCH BOX...

WHAT’S INSIDE

by GEORGINA HALL, RD

NUTRITION

TO SUPPORT adequate growth and to foster the good health of children, a sensible eating pattern needs to be encouraged.

Meals provided should be: • Balanced in the amount of foods eaten in proportion to the body needs • Nourishing to the body • Adequate in calories, nutrients, and fibre to meet nutritional needs • A variety of foods from within and among the major food group

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

?

5-Day Healthy Lunch Box Day 1: 2-3ozs Chicken Salad* (made with light mayonnaise)

2 slices Whole Wheat Bread 1/2 cup Tossed salad 1 small sliced mango 1 small package of plantain chips

*Variations to chicken salad: egg salad/ tuna salad/ ham

Day 5: 2-3ozs Grilled Fish 1/2 -1 cup Vegetable Chow mein 1/2 cup streamed vegetables (carrots, christophene, squash, broccoli)

1 small apple 6oz low fat yogurt

Day 2:

Did you know

2-3ozs salt fish (optional: served with gravy)

1/2 -1 cup mashed sweet potatoes 1/2 cup cucumber, sweet pepper and avocado 1/2 cup mixed fruit cup 1 cup unsalted popcorn

Day 3: 1/2 cup lentil curry 1 medium (7 inches) whole wheat tortilla/roti 1/2 cup raw baby carrots and cucumber (served with light Ranch dressing)

1 small orange 1 cup low fat or reduced fat milk or soymilk

Day 4: 2-3ozs baked chicken 1/2 -1 cup spinach rice (optional: served with plain gravy)

1/2 cup stirred fry vegetables (carrots, broccoli, sweet pepper, onion)

1 small banana 1 oz unsalted nuts*/ dried fruits (e.g. raisin) *Nut use NOT indicated for children with peanut or tree nut allergies

Be sure to pack 8ozs (237mls) water with every meal. continued on page 8

The Truth About Juice

(no butter added)

...that juice drink is not real juice???

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a beverage can only be labelled “juice” once it contains 100% of the fruit or vegetable. Any beverage with less than 100% of the fruit or vegetable must be labelled as “juice cocktail”; “juice beverage”; or “juice drink”.

Most juice drinks and other beverages with less than 100% juice mainly consist of water and added sugar, and may contain very little of the actual juice. Thus, the minerals, vitamins, and fibre in the fresh fruit will be limited in the beverage and children will be taking in extra calories!

Therefore, choose 100% juices or no added sugar juices but be sure to still limit the intake to 6-8oz per day as there is a lack of fibre.

Instead, choose the actual fruit and vegetable over juices!

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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The Caribbean and the Barbados Food Guides will assist you in choosing healthy, cost effective foods for your child to keep them healthy and strong.

A GLANCE AT THE SIX (6) FOOD GROUPS USING THE BARBADOS FOOD GUIDE

NUTRITION

FOOD GROUPS

1

Staples

2

Legumes

3

4

5

6

SOME EXAMPLES OF FOOD SOURCES Grains and grain products: pasta, rice, flour, bread, crackers, oats, cereal products, cornmeal, cassava flour Fibrous Roots (may be referred to as starchy vegetables): potatoes, yams, cassava, breadfruit, eddoes, plantains, corn • Choose whole grains and starchy vegetables more often Lentils, split peas, soya beans, kidney beans, almonds, peanuts, cashews, soy milk, tofu, texture vegetable protein

Foods from Animals

Chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, beef, pork, eggs Dairy: milk, cheese, yogurt, ice- cream • Choose lean cuts of meats and poultry.

• Switch dairy products to fat free, 1% low fat, or 2% reduced fat

Fruits

Mangoes, apples, grapes, sea grapes, watermelon, pineapples, oranges, Bajan cherries, bananas, plums, pear, coconut, guava, sugar apples, pawpaw • Provide a variety of fruits daily and limit fruit juices

Vegetables

Tomato, beets, cabbage, cauliflower, christophene, sweet pepper, onion, garlic, okras, broccoli, thyme, lettuce, carrots, pumpkin, squash • Provide a variety of vegetables daily

Fats & oil

Margarine, oils, tub butter, shortening Invisible fats: mayonnaise, salad dressing, coconut, avocado, embedded fatty meat cuts • Limit solid fats

Georgina Hall is a Registered Dietitian. She assists, educates and empowers individuals in the management and prevention of various disease conditions through nutrition.

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

BULLYING: SIGNS AND SOLUTIONS

by LEANNE TASHER

- Definition:

BEHAVIOUR

“Bullying is defined as direct or indirect verbal comments, actions, behaviour, or tactics such as verbal abuse or psychological manipulations that are used to harm an individual or an attempt to harm an individual.”

-www.psychologicalharassment.com “NO, not my child…” These words are often uttered by parents in quick defence of troublesome behaviour, such as bullying. Surely, it’s difficult to imagine their ‘little angel’ causing harm, whether physical, emotional or psychological, to others. However, bullying is very common, and is carried out by both suspected and seemingly-harmless perpetrators.

Whenever the issue of bullying is raised, people often focus on the harm caused to the victim. However, bullying also negatively impacts the aggressor during adolescence and adulthood. For example, bullying can be linked to substance abuse, violence, school dropout, early sexual activity, criminal convictions, and abusive relationships. So whether your child is a perpetrator or victim, it’s important to learn the signs of bullying and address it immediately.

The Signs of Bullying Detecting problematic behaviour isn’t always straightforward. It’s possible for a child to have a dominant, authoritative personality without being a bully. Clinical psychologist of over 20 years Joel Haber identified the following as signs of bullying.

Your child might be a bully if he/she: • Excludes others from activities • Seems concerned with being or staying popular • Is intolerant of and/or show contempt for children who are ‘misfits’ • Frequently teases other children • Persistently behaves badly • Hurts animals

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

Bullying as Learned Behaviour Parents and guardians should strive to set a positive example. Children observe, and often mimic, conduct demonstrated within the home. For example, if a child sees adults gossiping, discriminating against or hurting others, they might exhibit similar behaviours.

Conflict amongst parents and siblings bear some blame.

Children who are neglected, mistreated or whose parents are divorced are more likely to become bullies.

The Behavioural Traits of a Bully While there’s no excuse for bullying, it can be caused by certain circumstances and characteristics. Here’s a look at some traits bullies typically possess:

• Teach empathy Thoroughly explain the consequences of bullying.

Encourage your child to take responsibility for their actions by apologising or doing something nice for the victim(s).

• Reward positive behaviour Commend your child on any improvements in their behaviour, such as expressing compassion and kindness.

• Identify positive activities Encourage your child to find healthy, productive ways of dealing with and controlling their emotions. They can, for example, spend more time pursuing interests and hobbies.

• Set an example Become a suitable role model for your child by treating others with respect, empathy and kindness.

• Aggressive Hostile behaviour is a clear sign of bullying. Bullies repeatedly and intentionally hurt victim(s) emotionally, physically and/or psychologically.

• Controlling/ dominant Bullies overpower others. They assume dominance to manipulate and mistreat peers without remorse or empathy.

Bullies often target children perceived as being weaker.

Sip. Smile. Share.

• Insecure Although bullies appear strong, they may lack selfconfidence. Children who experience rejection or deprivation may lash out at peers. Studies show that ‘popular’ children, who are perceived as confident, tease others to maintain social status.

• Attention-seeking Bullies may disregard others’ feelings to impress friends.

Home-related issues may cause bullies to seek attention.

Addressing the Issue • Get the facts You can’t help your child if you are in denial. Learn more about your child’s behaviour from teachers, coaches, relatives and other trusted persons. This feedback could resolve a potentially deep-rooted problem.

• Start the conversation Using a calm, firm tone, talk to your child about the effects of bullying. Share helpful tips regarding appropriate conduct.

Your child may need the benefit of psychological counselling.

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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PROMOTING POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR

BEHAVIOUR

by JAMAL PRESCOD

THE ENVIRONMENT which parents find themselves in today is not the same as it was yesterday nor what it will be tomorrow. Despite the consistency that is ‘change’, here are a few tips that can help make behaviour a little less concerning and a lot more manageable.

Put aside time to spend with your children

One of the most effective methods of improving your children’s behaviour is spending quality time with them as often as possible. Children are naturally programmed to need a positive emotional connection. If you as a parent aren’t providing that, then they will seek it elsewhere but not necessarily from a source you would want. A few minutes a day spent giving your child that individual attention could prove to be the difference between good and bad behaviour.

Express your feelings

We cannot expect a child to understand how you feel about anything if you do not tell them. If you are unhappy with their behaviour, it is not enough just to give them a threatening

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

look. Explain to the child how it makes you feel, why it makes you feel that way and how he/she has contributed to it. The same also applies when catch them being good. Reinforce the positives by clearly letting them know how it makes you feel.

Understand the why of the behaviour

When a child misbehaves, it is more effective to understand ‘why’ the child behaved that way rather than simply punishing.

By understanding the ‘why’, you are better able to stop the reoccurrence of the unwanted behaviour. As an adult, it is far easier at times to adjust your behaviour to accommodate your child than it is for the child to accommodate yours.

Be a role model

Children are often looking for someone to look up to and model themselves after; why shouldn’t that be you?

Children can pick up many things from their parents, from languages and accents to subtle facial expressions, so why not behaviours? If you want your child to behave positively, shouldn’t you show them what those behaviours are? If you yell at your child, expect them to learn to yell in return, if you hit your child, expect them to hit others. Model the behaviours you wish them to display.

expect everything. Learning life skills and responsibility can only help to temper a child’s positive growth and enhance their self-esteem.

Jamal Prescod MSc, is an applied psychologist with several years’ experience as a school counsellor for primary aged children.

Be consistent

There are times when you think a child’s behaviour is cute and adorable, so you laugh and make light of it. However, those same behaviours quickly become inappropriate as the child gets older. Your initial reactions have already paved the way for that behaviour to flourish, how can the child see it as inappropriate today when yesterday it made you laugh and smile? The expectations you have of your child’s behaviour should be consistent so there is no confusion of what is right or wrong, good or bad.

Take care of the home as a family

By having your children take part in household activities and responsibilities, you are allowing them to have a sense of belongingness and teaching them about the value of hard work. When a child is handed everything, they grow to

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LET’S TALK SOCIAL MEDIA AND OUR CHILDREN

TECHNOLOGY

by KATRINA FRANCIS-WORRELL

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

WE LIVE IN A WORLD where the face of technology is constantly changing. One innovative technological advancement which has been gifted to us is social media.

Any user can tell you that this useful tool is a blessing and a curse.

Social media facilitates easy communication no matter where you are in the world. It allows you to keep abreast of news, celebrities and trends. And it is also an extremely powerful tool for education, information and advertising. With all these great benefits, why would it ever be considered a curse?

Well for every positive, there is a negative and the downsides of social media are equally strong in number. The ease of communication via social media has created a stage for persons to openly (or privately) condemn, criticise and attack others. Everyone chooses to assert his or her right to free speech via this medium, no matter who they hurt with their words.

Is this an environment in which you would allow your child to freely roam? Children enjoy being able to connect with their friends just as much as adults, and post photos of themselves and their activities. But ask yourself this; is this always truly a good thing for children? These well intentioned posts can make vulnerable children a target to predators and bullies who believe they can secretly get at their victims without consequence.

Public outcry is often raised when misconduct among minors is circulated and publicised via social media. Everyone has an opinion on whether children should use social media or not. They also express opinions about how it should be used, if they use it. Yet, the misuse of social media among children continues, especially for cyber-bullying.

The question is what do we do? With the court of public opinion always in session, why haven’t the problems associated with social media use by children been resolved yet? Unfortunately, one of the main challenges preventing an end to this problem is the fact that the opinions are so varied the relevant authorities (whoever they may be) are yet to arrive at a consensus on possible solutions and definitive actions which would resolve the matter.

Parenting Today decided to open the floor to you, the general public, as well as a panel of experts. Our aim was to hear your voice and get your voice heard, to help provide the powers that be with some much needed ideas which could serve to guide the solutions needed to curb the problems associated with social media usage by our children.

The Age Factor

should nullify the need for this question, yet, the answers varied. This in itself highlights a major part of the dilemma.

Some persons were extremely against it, answering with a firm no! Itz Queen had this to say: No! Children’s minds are not developed enough to handle the stuff I as an adult see on social media. Others such as Kathy Griffith and Marcia Jpaul saw no need for explanation, just responding with a no!

However, there were others who brought a different perspective to the table. Rashana Jones believes that the answer to this question, “…depends on the child’s maturity.”

She further supported her response by stating: “…children grow up with all sorts of technological devices; so once the parents believe that the child is mature enough and the parents themselves are able to monitor their account, I see

“Developmentally, children under 12 are not mature enough to have personal social media accounts.” no problem with it.”

Another take on the matter was shared by Stefanie Smith who thinks that: “You should give them with restrictions because they can always put [the] wrong age to create their own…”

Our panel of experts were unanimously against it. Here is what they had to say on this same matter: Saul Leacock said: “No. Children under 12 years are too young. Their minds are impressionable and can be easily influenced (or tricked) by their peers or the media. They are vulnerable, naive, gullible and too trusting. They lack foresight and often cannot perceive the danger or consequences of predator traps.”

Latonya Maughn expressed a similar view and even made a recommendation: “Developmentally, children under 12 are not mature enough to have personal social media accounts.

There are alternative internet activities which are more ageappropriate for younger children.”

Though in agreement, Steven Williams had a slightly different perspective: “We are subject to the rules of the social media sites and their minimum age is 13. So no, if our children sign up they would be breaking social media policy and parents would have no legal recourse if issues arise.”

The Parental Factor

Did you know that many popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram all have a minimum age limit of 13 years? Even the ever popular Whatsapp has a minimum age of 16. However, these restrictions do not stop children from using these platforms. In fact, most children already have their own accounts for these apps while they are still in primary school. This led us to pose the question, should children under the age of 12 be allowed to have their own social media accounts?

The age limits imposed by the creators of these platforms

Our research into the age factor showed us two things.

First, minors between 13-16 years could legitimately have their own social media accounts. Secondly, there are parents who do not have a problem with minors 12 and under having a social media account. This made the next question even more crucial. Since some minors have their own social media accounts, we asked if a child is under the age of 16 and has social media accounts, should parents know the passwords to manage/monitor these accounts?

Most of the respondents supported parents having access to these accounts and gave reasons/recommendations with

continued on page 16 PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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TECHNOLOGY

each response.

Danielle Johnally’s focused on the need for open lines of communication between parent and child. She said: “Yes I believe the parent should be privy to that information… I think it’s more important to focus on building a relationship where the child feels comfortable openly discussing all topics with you.”

Blessed Bobb approached the matter from a different angle, stating: “Yes because kids may be in danger and don’t know it. If parents monitor what they are doing, they may be able to see the red flags. If parents have access they can at least nip things in the bud because as long as they are under-aged, they are vulnerable. Also children need to be monitored just in case they start using dating sites, or going on pornographic sites.”

Joh La Doug weighed in declaring: “There should be no secret social media passwords for children. Minors are still impressionable. Parents cannot take any chances to expose their child to predators that lurk in the WWW shadows. No minor should be burdened with secret keeping. Secret passwords should be discouraged at all costs.”

Our experts also agreed with you. In response to this same question, this is what they shared: Saul Leacock said: “Yes. Parents are responsible and ultimately accountable for what happens to their children as minors. They especially need to know what is happening to their children even in their private lives and they reserve the right to check up on them periodically, and to protect them from sexual predators. If there is nothing to hide, there is no reason why the parents should not have unlimited access via their account passwords.”

Latonya Maughn, while agreeing, also gave a helpful

suggestion: “Yes, parents should monitor their child’s friend list, what they post about and their interactions. However, parents should not be constantly policing accounts.

Ultimately, parents should be teaching children how to independently make good decisions so using scenarios which consider dangers like blackmail, child pornography and cyber-bullying may be helpful.”

Steven Williams shared his take: “Yes, children under 16 years are the responsibility of their parents or guardian and by extension a right to privacy doesn’t extend to the internet, especially social media. In addition, something as powerfully influential and capable of altering social behaviour as a cellular phone, complete access should remain the property of the parent.”

The Responsibility Factor

The third question on the table examined the notion of responsibility. Bullying has been around for decades but it is no longer limited to face to face interactions in the school yard or in the street. Social media platforms have become yet another tool for bullies to hurl assaults at their victims.

Despite the age restrictions and beliefs expressed that parents should patrol minors’ accounts, cyber-bulling is rampant among school aged children. Thus we asked the question, who is ultimately responsible for the widespread occurrence of cyber-bullying among school aged children: the children, the parents, or the school?

Itz Queen weighed in once again stating: “Both parent and child should be responsible. When you give your minor child a device that can cause damage or death, you as a parent should see that the child is educated about its right uses as well as the consequences of misuse. As the child is a minor,

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

parents have liability.”

Stefanie Smith also voiced her opinion again saying: “The parents should monitor their children. If you have or see a child/children who criticises others, they are the bullies. Nip it in the bud...”

Of our experts Saul Leacock opined: “Parents need to play a more proactive role in monitoring and censoring cyberbullying in their school-age children and should educate them about the dangers of the same. Negligence of parental responsibility, indolence, or failing to put a check on their children’s activities makes parents equally guilty of the widespread occurrence of cyber bullying.”

The other two experts agreed that the blame had to be shared all around. Latonya Maughn’s perspective was that: “They all contribute to the prevalence of cyber-bullying and this also includes the behaviour in the wider society which influences norms. Parents who are unaware of or see nothing wrong with their child’s behaviour magnify the problem. Additionally, when children witness bullying and do nothing, bullying is viewed as acceptable among peers.

And without consequences when bullying is reported the problem will continue.”

Steven Williams said: “There is equal blame all around.

Children are not being taught personal responsibility for their

actions by their parents. While children do know right from wrong they are choosing not to exercise good judgment. On the other hand, schools are not teaching digital etiquette and citizenship. Doing this could give our young citizens the digital skills they so desperately need.”

So what can we take away from this?

Just a few persons expressing their views, showed the level of division which exists on this topic. Misconduct of minors using social media cannot be stopped if there is no consensus on the action which should be taken. Setting and maintaining a local standard for the use of social media by children could go a long way in bringing an end to cyberbullying. Realistically this solution may be a long way off.

So what can be done until that time comes?

There are three main actions which can be taken:

1. Abide by the rules and age restrictions set in place by social media platforms.

2. Educate parents on the ways in which they can monitor their children’s online activities.

3. Teach children how to properly and positively use social media.

Let’s Meet The Experts Saul Leacock is a trained teacher with 39 years of experience.

Guidance Counsellor of the Daryll Jordan Secondary School, he is also currently the President of the Barbados Association of Guidance Counsellors. Leacock conducts seminars and is a motivational speaker.

Additionally, he serves as the director of Impact Family Counselling Services and as a minister at the Truth for the Final Generation Church.

Latonya Maughn is a research psychologist who has had experience

working with children from various social and cultural backgrounds.

Her areas of expertise include bullying and early childhood education and development. Maughn currently works with D.B. Research Services and in this capacity has developed teaching manuals for the bullying module of the Transition to Secondary School Programme for first formers across all public secondary schools in Barbados.

Stephen Williams is the Chief Executive Officer of the technology

consulting firm, Sunisle Technology Solutions. His work as an information technology specialist has afforded him the opportunity to be published in local newspapers and appear on local television programmes. Williams is an advisor to the Barbados National Council of Parent-Teacher Association on social media and technology matters that affects the family and school.

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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INSURING YOUR CHILD

by CHERYL HAREWOOD

PARENTHOOD

PURCHASING insurance for children is not an investment many parents undertake, but they are encouraged to do so – if only for the children’s future.

Both health and life insurance policies are great investments for children.

An insurance executive explained that while parents can purchase life insurance for their children from birth, there is one stipulation. Regardless of which parent purchases the premium, it must always be in the mother’s name as long as she is alive. The child’s name can only be placed on the policy when he or she reaches adulthood.

If you’re keen on purchasing health insurance for your child, you can do so when the child is of primary school age. More information on this can be shared by insurance companies.

Some may frown upon the idea of purchasing insurance for minors. However, there are some good reasons for purchasing a life insurance policy for your child. Here are five:

A locked-in rate

Premiums for minors can be affordable. Buying life or health insurance for your child now could give you an opportunity to lock in that rate for the life of the policy. As long as the required premium is paid, the policy will stay in force.

Policies vary from company to company. You can shop around while receiving professional guidance in selecting the right policy and insurance provider so your child gets the most out of their policy - even when he or she is grown with a family of their own.

They’ll always be insured

A number of factors can affect your child’s future insurability. High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and cancer are just few of the many health complications that might prevent your child from being insured down

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

the road. A primary benefit of purchasing life insurance when they are young is that they will always be covered regardless of their future health as long as premiums are being paid.

Guaranteed insurability

Some life insurance policies for children come with an optional guaranteed insurability rider/endorsement that may be available for a nominal cost. As your child grows into an adult, this rider allows you to buy additional life insurance above the face value of the current policy regardless of his/her health status at the time. Usually, the older the child gets, the fewer dates the policy owner has to purchase more life insurance and in some instances, after a certain age, the rider may not be exercised. Have a talk with your insurance provider concerning this.

Cash value and living benefits

Cash value earned from a life policy can be withdrawn or borrowed against, providing living benefits that can be used by your child as he or she gets older for things such as: • University tuition and expenses • Financing a vehicle • Paying for a wedding • Collateral for loans

Time and resources to grieve

In the event of the loss of a child, day to day responsibilities might be overwhelming, such as demands of your job, paying the bills, and having to care for other children in the household. The reality is you might not have enough paid sick or vacation time from work to take care of yourself, your spouse or your other children during this difficult time. If the unthinkable were to happen, would you have done enough financial planning to have the resources to go back to work on your terms?

GET UP TO 80% OF YOUR CLAIM PAID INSTANTLY WITH SAGICOR CariCARE®

When you visit a health care professional, like the pharmacist, you shouldn’t have to wait to be reimbursed. With the CariCARE® Protector Plan you simply swipe your card and CariCARE® instantly pays the portion that’s covered. Contact your Sagicor Advisor or the Group Life & Health Department at 227-7222 for more details.

Swipe. Save. Sagicor.

The CariCARE® Protector Plan is health insurance and does not provide life insurance coverage or accumulates cash values or savings.

Instant claim settlement will be subject to which deductible option is chosen.

Sagicor Life Inc is rated “A-” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Rating Company.

CARING FOR BABY

by KATRINA FRANCIS-WORRELL

HEALTH

A new-born brings joy to any family and is sure to be the centre of attention and bathed in love and affection. However in order for them to grow up healthy and strong, caregivers must pay careful attention to them and their needs. Here is a Parenting Today list of Dos and Don’ts to ensure the best possible care for your little one.

DOs

DONTs

Do ensure that visitors wash their hands before holding the baby.

Don’t allow persons who are sick, especially with flu symptoms, to come into contact with your new-born.

Do select a crib mattress which is firm, and has minimal to no indentation, to avoid suffocation.

Don’t fill your new-born’s crib with stuffed toys, pillows or any other objects that may cause suffocation.

Do give your baby formula which has been approved for use by your health care provider.

Don’t give cow’s milk (or whole milk) to babies who are under the age of 12 months.

Do support your baby’s neck well when holding him or her.

Don’t shake your baby for any reason. This can cause his/her small brain to bleed resulting in death.

Do place your new-born baby on his or her back when sleeping, even during short naps.

Don’t sleep with your baby in the bed next to you. This puts him/her at risk for Sudden Infant Death.

Do strap your baby into a car seat when travelling in a vehicle as recommended by the manufacturer.

Don’t install the car seat in the front seat. This can result in severe injury or death if there is a collision.

Do change your baby’s diaper as quickly as possible after he/she has soiled it, to avoid diaper rash.

Don’t wipe girls from the back forward. This can cause painful urinary tract infections.

Do test your baby’s bath water before immersing him/her in it, to ensure the temperature is just right.

Don’t ever leave your baby unattended in the bathtub, no matter how quickly you intend to come back.

Do burp your baby after every feeding to avoid him or her having air and becoming extremely fussy.

Don’t eat foods which are likely to cause your baby to become gassy if you are breastfeeding. Contact your health care provider for a complete list of these foods.

Do sterilise the baby’s bottles between each usage, and always handle them with clean hands.

Don’t forget to change bottle nipples which are worn and damaged to avoid your baby choking.

Do spend time enjoy your little one and bonding because the baby phase passes by very quickly.

Don’t forget to look after yourself; you can only properly care for your baby if you are healthy and happy.

Do contact your health care provider immediately if you notice any usual rashes, discharges or behaviour from your baby.

Don’t wait until any health problems are extremely bad before seeking professional help.

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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ENTERPRISE

TEACHING YOUR CHILD FINANCIAL RE$PON$IBILITY

by CAMILLE ALLEYNE

LEARNING to be responsible for finances starts at a young age. Children need to know that money represents the time, effort and sacrifice of the person who earned it, and it should be respected.

It is important for us to find ways to teach our children about finances in a way that they can understand.

Here are suggestions that could get the ball rolling:

1. HELP YOUR CHILD TO EARN AN INCOME • Give a Weekly or Monthly Allowance

It is healthy for children to do chores around the house daily. Some of these chores should be expected simply because it is the responsible thing for them to do. However, there are other duties that take extra effort and discipline which could be rewarded. These should be reassessed and reassigned on a regular basis to ensure that they are suitable to the ages and abilities of the children.

Most children become aware of money and its purchasing power by five years old so this would be a great age to begin to establish an allowance system.

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

Here are a few suggestions that you may contemplate when it comes to the giving of an allowance. A five-year-old may be expected to put away toys but could be rewarded with an allowance for folding small pieces of laundry. A nineyear-old should be able to help around the yard but earn pocket money for thoroughly washing the car. Cleaning the house may be expected by a 16-year-old but painting it would be a great opportunity to offer monetary incentives.

• Assist Them in Finding Appropriate Jobs

Delivering newspapers, folding flyers, shelf-packing, bagging groceries, and camp counselling duties are examples of jobs that are available to older children. Care must be taken to investigate employers to ensure that children are in safe environments and are involved in legal activities. Parents and guardians must also guarantee that the jobs are not disadvantaging the children’s formal education.

• Encourage Entrepreneurship

Assist your child in developing his/her own business as a way of developing his gifts and ideas.

2. TEACH THEM THE PURPOSE OF MONEY

Now that the child has an income, it is time to teach financial responsibility. When you are making financial decisions and budgeting your own money, use those opportunities to teach responsible money management.

If you ask a child what is the purpose of money, the answer will likely be, “Money buys things”. Clarifying the purpose of money is vitally important. Some of the purposes of money are: • To provide for basic needs • To fulfil personal goals and dreams • To help meet the needs of others

3. EXPLAIN THE POWER OF MONEY

Once money is available, a person can purchase anything that is for sale ― good or bad. Herein is the power of money.

It is necessary, therefore, to remember, “with great power comes great responsibility” a quotation best recalled from the Spiderman story.

Budgeting is an effective way to have control over finances.

Keep it simple and ensure that your child participates in the formulating of his/her own budget.

Possible Contents of a Budget: • Contribution to the home to help with expenses • Savings towards a goal such as music classes • Spending money for a treat e.g. toy, clothing • Amount for Charity

4. BUILD YOUR CHILD’S CHARACTER

As you teach your child money matters and allow independent decision making, expect a few mistakes along the way. Ask questions as you both assess any issues. Offer praise in the areas in which responsible behaviour was evident. Remember to encourage the child to try again.

Good money management produces: • Self-Discipline ― the ability to prioritise, stick to a budget and save.

• Patience ― the ability to wait long enough to see savings grow.

• Self-Control ― the ability to resist self-indulgence, immediate gratification and impulse buying.

• Resilience ― the ability to assess and reorganise after financial disappointment.

• Community Responsibility ― a good money manager always reaches out to others.

Teaching your children financial responsibility will allow them to reap satisfying rewards. When they see that they can acquire something they wanted, and even share some of what they have earned with others, they will feel it was all worth it.

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

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BMEX 2017: INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO COMMON PROBLEMS

by KATRINA FRANCIS-WORRELL

EVERY GREAT INNOVATION in the world is birthed from one small idea. Often times, ideas are bred as solutions in response to a specific problem. At BMEX 2017 school children, with the guidance and support of their teachers, were given the opportunity to display the products of their innovation. Great ideas, to solve everyday problems, were showcased.

ENTERPRISE

The Smart Bin

The Alleyne School Smart Bin Godfrey Allicock, Electronics Teacher of Alleyne School, encouraging Jamel Gaskin to test out the Smart Bin.

Have you ever had to discard your food container after a meal in a public place but when you got to the bin realised you had to touch this dirty receptacle in order to open it?

Totally disgusting right? Well the students of The Alleyne School are here to save the day. Using almost all recycled materials, they created the Smart Bin – a garbage bin with a latch which automatically opens and closes for you.

Electronics teacher at the school, Godfrey Allicock explained that it was created by eight fourth form students.

These Industrial Arts students worked under the direction of himself and three other teachers: Lamar Forde (Electronics), Raschid Paul (Metal Work) and Glenroy Kellman (Woodwork).

Allicock described the Smart Bin as a zero-contact bin, with two ultra-sonic sensors, one to send and one to receive.

One sensor constantly emits a frequency of 40 000 Hertz and when someone stands in front of the bin, the signal is interrupted. It then bounces off of that person’s body and is received by the second sensor. This activates the mechanism to open the bin’s latch, and close it back as well.

The sensors also serve the purpose of repelling rodents and animals such as dogs that usually go digging in the trash.

The frequency emitted by the sensor cannot be heard by humans but it can be heard by these animals and they hate it!

Thus it keeps them away.

The eco-friendly Smart Bin is solar powered. It is connected to a battery which is charged by a solar panel. This allows the Smart Bin to be useful indoors or outdoors, day or night.

Innovative and environmentally friendly, this Smart Bin created by these young students is definitely an invention which must by lauded.

The Solar Distillation System

St. George Secondary Solar Distillation System Akindarron Skeete of St. George Secondary school, working with Agricultural Science teacher Russell Smith-Ollivierre to set up the Solar Distillation System.

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PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

A harsh reality which plagues many of our country’s citizens was the inspiration for this innovative creation. For months, residents of rural areas of Barbados, lived with waterless taps.

In an effort to provide a solution to the unpleasant, unfortunate and uncomfortable conundrum, the students of the St. George Secondary School created a solar distillation system.

This solar distillation unit is an inexpensive way to distil sea water, creating potable water. It was made from PVC

board and Perspex and spray painted black to attract heat and speed up the distillation process.

Three students, under the guidance of their Agricultural Science teacher Russell Smith-Ollivierre, worked on the unit. They were able to produce the system after just two full days of work.

Smith-Ollivierre explained that essentially the system uses the two principles of evaporation and condensation. The sea water is heated up until it evaporates and condenses on the side of the Perspex. Then, the freshly distilled water is collected at the side of the unit. This water can then be used for domestic purposes such as drinking, cooking, cleaning and washing.

The Aquaponics System

St. George Secondary Aquaponics Reuben Wiltshire and Akindarron Skeete, students of St. George Secondary, demonstrating how their aquaponics system works.

In an effort to promote growing what you eat, the students of St. George Secondary School created a simple, convenient and effective aquaponics system. They made a sleek space-saving aquaponics system, which could produce tilapia fish and cabbage for a delicious fish salad.

Agricultural Science teacher at the school, Russell Smith-Ollivierre described the system as one which was easy and inexpensive to make. The system was built after four continuous days of work by six students who ranged in age from 14 to 17 years old.

They chose tilapia fish for this system because their waste is high in nitrogen, which is suitable for the growth of leafy crops such as lettuce and cabbage. The aquaponics systems works through one continuous cycle, where the water containing the fish waste is pumped up towards the plants.

This allows the plants to be watered and fertilised, and filtered water is then returned to the fish.

Kudos is extended to these students for their hard work on these creative, useful and innovative projects.

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

25

you will nee d:

3D SHOE BOX FRAME Shoebox lids Glue stick Clothes pins Crazy Glue Assorted tissue paper Toys with a Flat Surface Ruler Scissors 12� of string

Step 1 CRAFT

Step 2

PARENTING TODAY • JULY 2017

Place the lids on the gift wrap paper. Trace the outline of the lid onto the tissue paper. Then draw a parallel line, approximately one inch outside the first line. Cut along the outer line (as shown).

Cover the surface of each paper with glue stick and stick them into each lid.

Step 3

Using crazy glue, stick the five lids together. Use clothes pins to hold them in place until the glue dries.

Step 4

Attach a string to the back of your frame. Use glue to stick your favourite photos or small toys on the inside of the frame.

Step 5

Hang your frame and take a step back to admire your beautiful craft piece!

Shoebox lids compliments Sole Addiction

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by KATRINA FRANCIS-WORRELL

w o n

e l b a l avai LIFE

F E E L S BE T T E R

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