Volume 8 l Issue 1 - March -May 2021 by Media Xpose

VOLUME 8

INSIDE: FEATURES | COMPETITIONS | KICKS FOR KIDS | RECIPES

a family lifestyle magazine TM

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Easter

Inside: F atim Sydow’s a Pickled F ish Recipe

Aamz: Business owner,

model, mother and ‘momfluencer’

It’s time to boost your child’s immune system

Flu season

is around the corner

The story of SQ-Easy -

March 2021 R29.90 Incl. VAT 21011

9 772311 546706

AUTUMN

bringing South Africa together, one squeeze at a time Born and raised in a pandemic Capturing those first few moments Why you should send your child to Grade R

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l e c o w m s ' e d e Welcome to our first edition for 2021! Kids are back at school and most of us are back at the office and almost living a 'normal' life again. For many, 2020 was not an easy year, but hey, we made it despite the fact that we may have lost friends and relatives to COVID-19. My sincere condolences to those of you who have lost family members and friends due to the coronavirus. With flu season around the corner, it is important that we build our immune systems to ensure that we stay healthy during the winter months. There are many over-the-counter supplements to help build your immune system, so don’t delay, speak to your GP or pharmacist. It is also important to exercise regularly, drink plenty of fluids – especially water – eat foods with probiotics and make sure that you get enough sleep. Like myself, for some of us it is not always easy to exercise but trying to add it to your daily routine is a great start, even if you take a walk around the block or just do stretching exercises for a few minutes every day. We also tend to forget to drink water, especially during the winter months, so perhaps put a note on your fridge or a reminder on your phone. Also, quenching your thirst with fizzy drinks is not a good idea. Water flushes out toxins from your body and also helps to regulate body temperature. On another note, with Easter holidays coming up and many of us taking to the roads, please be vigilant and patient on the roads and have a safe return. Buckling up is one of the most important rules when travelling and if you plan to take a really long trip, try and plan your trip with a sleepover halfway to your destination. And, remember to wear your masks properly, avoid crowded places and sanitise regularly as many people will be out and about during this time. Stay safe!

Elroy 2

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Live attenuated OKa varicellazoster virus 2 000 PFU/0,5 ml reconstituted vaccine

Vaccination can help to protect against chickenpox. Chickenpox vaccination is recommended by the WHO

Healthy subjects: VARILRIX is indicated for active immunisation against varicella (chickenpox) of healthy infants (from the age of 9 months), children and adolescents2 From 9 months up to and including 12 years of age

Adolescents from the age of 13 years and adults

2 Doses (at least 6 weeks between doses)

High-risk patients and healthy close contacts: VARILRIX is also indicated for active immunisation against varicella (chickenpox) of susceptible high-risk patients and their susceptible healthy close contacts2 Please refer to the full professional information before prescribing. All adverse events should be reported by calling the Ethicare Medical Careline number or directly to GlaxoSmithKline on +27 11 745 6000. Reference: 1. WHO. Varicella and herpes zoster vaccines: WHO position paper, June 2014. Wkly Epidemiol Rec; 89(25):265-287. 2. VARILRIX Professional Information.

S4 VARILRIX (Reg. No. 32/30.1/0468). Lyophilised virus vaccine. Powder for solution and injection. Each 0,5 ml of the reconstituted vaccine contains not less than 2 000 plaque forming units (PFU) of the live attenuated varicella-zoster (OKa strain) virus. INDICATIONS: Active immunisation against varicella of healthy infants (from the age of 9 months), children and adolescents. Active immunisation against varicella of susceptible high-risk patients and their susceptible healthy close contacts. In seronegative patients suffering from leukaemia but maintenance chemotherapy should be withheld one week before and one week after immunisation. Patients under immunosuppressive treatment (including corticosteriod therapy) for malignant solid tumours or for serious chronic diseases are immunised when they are in complete haematological remission from the disease. If organ transplantation (e.g. kidney transplant) is being considered, immunisation should be carried out a few weeks before the administration of the immunosuppressive treatment. Susceptible healthy close contacts should be immunised in order to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus to high-risk patients. CONTRA-INDICATIONS: In subjects with severe humoral or cellular immunodeficiency (e.g. in subjects with primary or acquired immunodeficiency states, with a total lymphocyte count < 1 200/mm3 or presenting other evidence of lack of cellular immune competence, or patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy (including high dose corticosteroids). In subjects with known hypersensitivity to neomycin, or to any component of the vaccine. Pregnant women. Avoid pregnancy one month after immunisation. In high-risk patients, do not administer at the same time as other live attenuated vaccines. WARNINGS AND SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS: Administration should be postponed in patients suffering from acute severe febrile illness, presence of minor infection, is not a contra-indication for immunisation. Syncope (fainting) can occur and procedures should be in place to avoid injury from faints. Alcohol and other disinfecting agents must be allowed to evaporate from the skin before injection. Limited protection against varicella may be obtained by vaccination up to 72 hours after exposure to natural disease. A protective immune response may not be elicited in all vaccinees. Cases of varicella disease have been shown to occur in persons who have previously received VARILRIX. Transmission of the Oka vaccine virus has been shown to occur at a very low rate in seronegative contacts of vaccinees with rash. Transmission of the Oka vaccine from a vaccinee who does not develop a rash to seronegative contacts cannot be excluded. Contact of vaccinees with persons who may be immunocompromised due to HIV infection or other immunodeficiency should be avoided for at least 14 days post immunisation. Immunocompromised subjects who have no contra-indication for this vaccination may not respond as well as immunocompetent subjects, and some may acquire varicella despite appropriate vaccine administration. Immunocompromised subjects should be monitored carefully for signs of varicella. Must not be administered intravascularly or intradermally. Appropriate medical treatment should always be readily available in case of rare anaphylactic reactions following administration of the vaccine. It must be expected that the reactogenicity following co-administration of VARILRIX and more reactogenic vaccines will be determined by the reactions of the latter. Excipient Warnings: Contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not be given VARILRIX. Also contains traces of neomycin and should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to this antibiotic. INTERACTIONS: Tuberculin testing should not be performed within 6 weeks after vaccination to avoid false negative results. In subjects who have received immune globulin or a blood transfusion, immunisation should be delayed for at least three months. Salicylates should be avoided for 6 weeks after varicella vaccination, as Reye’s syndrome has been reported. Healthy subjects: can be administered at the same time as any other vaccines. Different injectable vaccines should be administered at different injection sites. High-risk patients: Do not administer at the same time as other live attenuated vaccines. Inactivated vaccines may be administered if no specific interaction has been given. Different injectable vaccines should always be administered at different injection sites. PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: Contra-indicated. Pregnant women must not be vaccinated. Pregnancy should be avoided for one month after immunisation. Women who intend to become pregnant should be advised to delay pregnancy. Administration is not advised during breastfeeding. DOSAGE AND DIRECTIONS FOR USE: By SC injection in the deltoid region or in the anterolateral area of the thigh. Children from the age of 9 months up to and including 12 years of age should receive 2 doses. Administer the second dose at least 6 weeks after the first dose but in no circumstances less than 4 weeks. From 13 years of age and above: 2 doses. Administer the second dose at least 6 weeks after the first dose. In high risk patients additional doses of vaccine might be required. SIDE EFFECTS: Very Common: pain, redness. Common: rash, swelling at the injection site, fever (oral/axillary temperature ≥ 37,5 °C or rectal temperature ≥ 38,0 °C). Uncommon: upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis; lymphadenopathy; irritability; headache, somnolence; cough, rhinitis; nausea, vomiting; varicella-like rash, pruritus; arthralgia, myalgia; fever (oral/axillary temperature > 39,0 °C or rectal temperature > 39,5 °C), fatigue, malaise. Rare: conjunctivitis; abdominal pain, diarrhoea; urticarial. Post-marketing data: Refer to package insert. MANAGEMENT OF OVERDOSAGE: Lethargy and convulsions have been reported. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. For full prescribing information refer to the professional information approved by the medicines regulatory authority (04/2017). All adverse events should be reported by calling the Ethicare Medical Careline number or directly to GlaxoSmithKline on +27 11 745 6000. Trade marks are owned by or licensed to the GSK Group of companies. © 2021 Aspen Group of companies or its licensor. All rights reserved. HCR: GlaxoSmithKline South Africa (Pty) Ltd. (Co. reg. no. 1948 /030135 /07), 39 Hawkins Ave, Epping Industria 1, 7460. Marketed by Ethicare, a division of Pharmacare Limited. Healthcare Park, Woodlands Drive, Woodmead, 2191. ZAR-VVR-07-20-00005 01/2021

A division of Pharmacare Limited t/a Aspen Pharmacare. Medical Careline - 0800 CARE 02 (0800 227 302)

contents COVER STORY

FEATURE

PETS

Aamz – Business owner, model, mother & ‘momfluencer’

The story of SQ-Easy

Dogs can be dangerous, even the family pet

TRUE LIFE STORY

HEALTH

SAFETY

Flu season is around the corner

Child’s play? Walking rings can be dangerous

Mom & baby meet in 2021 after both were ‘feared dead’

Sinus infection is not COVID-19

BACK TO SCHOOL

SUN CARE

All skin tones are susceptible to sun damage

Cipla Huf Puf Kit

It’s time to boost your child’s immune system

TRAVEL WITH BABY

BIRTH PHOTOGRAPHY

Don’t miss your medical check-ups because of COVID-19

Capturing those first few moments

HIV IN PREGNANCY

WELLBEING

CULTURE & CUSTOMS

HIV does not have to be a death threat for newborns

MENTAL HEALTH

EYE CARE

Born and raised in a pandemic

Now they see you, now they don’t

Conservative approach to myopia in children is short-sighted

Understanding dyscalculia – the maths version of dyslexia

Little kids, big feelings – helping young children manage anger

RECIPES

MONEY MATTERS

Pickled Fish

88 89

Kids and cash – how to teach children essential money lessons

EDUCATION

Connecting through creativity – the importance of creativity in children

Romance and schizophrenia: An odd couple

80 82

Navigating the cultures & customs of raising a baby in SA

4 Tips to help making travelling baby a happy baby

Seafood Paella

DIY ARTS & CRAFTS

NUTRITION

Recycled cardboard egg tray flowers

3 Reasons post-exercise nutrition is important

Why you should send your child to Grade R

PARENTING MULTIPLES

FERTILITY

Double doesn’t have to break the piggy bank

Oxidative stress and its harmful effect on sperm production

Editor: Elroy van Heerden editor@babysandbeyond.co.za

6 Carlton Crescent, Parklands, 7441 | Tel: 021 424 3625 | Fax: 086 270 9693 Email: info@babysandbeyond.co.za | Website: www.mediaxpose.co.za

@babysandbeyond.co.za

@BabysandBeyond

babysandbeyond

Picture Credit: Petri Oeschger / Anneke Van Zyl / 123rf.com / pixabay.com Distribution:

ON THE DOT Printed by:

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or its agents. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, the publisher does not accept responsibility for any error or omission contained herein. Consequently, no person connected with the publication of this journal will be liable for any loss or damage sustained by any reader as a result of action following statements or opinions expressed herein. The publisher will give consideration to all material submitted, but does not take responsibility for damage or its safe return.

Sub-Editor: Tessa O'Hara tessa.ohara@gmail.com Content Manager: Wadoeda Adams artwork@mediaxpose.co.za Editorial Contributors: Catherine Clark Sister Yolanda Mpilo Dr Robert Daniel Allison Powell Byron-Mahieu van der Linde Adrian Yssel Shelee Bloch Dr Kim Sontagg Dr Anusha Lachman Angela Leach Rene Grobler Alexa Wilding Bernice Castle Dr Greg Pienaar Design & Layout: Anja Bramley artwork1@mediaxpose.co.za

Advertising Sales: Allison Davids allison@babysandbeyond.co.za Lorraine Beneke lorraine@babysandbeyond.co.za Jo Ryklief jo@babysandbeyond.co.za Maurisha Niewenhuys Maurisha@mediaxpose.co.za Social Media: Kyla van Heerden social@mediaxpose.co.za Distribution & Subscriptions: Shihaam Gyer distribution@mediaxpose.co.za Retail Distribution: On The Dot Chief Financial Officer: Shaun Mays accounts@mediaxpose.co.za Receptionist: Daniëla Daniels receptionist@mediaxpose.co.za

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snippets - editor's choice

Go Education • Inclusive stress-free schooling environment • Individual Educational Plans (LEP) adapted • CAPS or external curriculum providers • Spectrum friendly and pressure free, benefitting learners with high anxiety Cottage School: From Grade 3, 4:1 class ratio, highly trained educators. Situated in Plumstead, tel: 083 683 8356, email: info@goeducation.co.za, website: www.goeducation.co.za

From ancient remedy to mainstream therapy Medika SA trading as the MELCURA™ brand, a trusted and well-established wound care brand that has been based in hospitals for over 15 years will soon be available to the public in local pharmacies. MELCURA™ products are a crucial component in one’s arsenal for fast, complete wound healing when an accident happens or a chronic wound flares up. MELCURA™ products are cost effective and easy to use, ensuring more individuals will have the right treatment for minor to severe wounds at the right time. MELCURA™ HoneyGel, the flagship product, comprises of medical-grade Fynbos honey and vitamins C and E. Bacteria can run amok in wounds and prevent fast healing. Honey is a complex substance with wonderful wound healing

properties where high acidity, high sugar content and its viscosity make it difficult for bacteria to thrive. Honey not only stops bacterial growth within the wound, but also provides the ideal wound environment to promote healing. An added benefit is that the indigenous multifloral Cape biome (Fynbos) honey has superior wound healing properties. MELCURA™ HoneyGel can be applied directly to an open wound or can be applied onto a clean dressing of choice. MELCURA™ HoneyGel is ideal for all types of wounds like cuts, abrasions, donor sites, first and second-degree burns, bites, arterial and diabetic ulcers, chronic wounds and post-surgery wounds. This ultimate wound care product is an essential first aid kit component and should be in everyone’s bathroom cabinet or travel bag. • Honey-based wound gel (40% Honey and Vitamins C and E), 30g (R99) and 50g (R124) For more information contact us directly at info@melcura.co.za or speak to Mandy at mandyroff@mweb.co.za.

Elastoplast 3-step routine for faster healing Bumps and scrapes are bound to happen, no matter how safe your home is. Be prepared with Elastoplast, SA’s no. 1 plaster brand*, to dry up tears and bring back your child’s smile quickly. Elastoplast has got you covered, for a life uninterrupted. The entire Elastoplast plasters range has a brand-new look on shelf.

Here are the just three steps to help heal cuts and abrasions faster and more effectively:

plast WIN: One of six Elasto h, which eac 000 hampers worth R1 range. e tin rou tep includes the 3-s

1. Cleanse with Elastoplast Wound Spray to remove dirt and visible particles – it even works upside-down. 2. Protect the wound with Elastoplast’s new look Fabric Plasters to helps prevent infection, protect the wound and absorb wound fluid. The plasters are now extra water repellent, extra flexible and breathable, aiding faster healing. 3. Heal: Support healing with reduced risk of scarring by applying the Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment.

TO ENTER scan the QR code with your phone and complete the entry form online https://mediaxpose.co.za/babys-and-beyond-publication-page/competitions/ Entries close 26 May 2021 and winners will be announced on the 1st of June 2021

*Nielson market value, Total First Aid Dressing Category, 12mm Dec 2020. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

snippets - editor's choice Harvest Table's kids range has arrived! Getting nutrients into your children’s diet has never been so easy. Harvest Table has introduced a Kids Shake range that contains prebiotics, probiotics, protein, magnesium, Barley grass juice and lion's mane mushrooms for a healthy brain. Flavoured with either chocolate or blueberry, your kids will love this addition to their diet. Just add three tablespoons to water and shake!

Advances in technology changing asthma management – new award-winning respiratory wearable now available in SA For many the battle to breathe is real and despite substantial reductions, asthma death rates in South Africa are among the highest in the world, with an estimated 18.5 deaths per 100 000 asthma cases. Prevalence too remains high and although local research is outdated, under and poorly reported, there’s consensus that 15% of children and one in 20 adults in South Africa have asthma. Recognising the need, and in pursuit of better asthma management, medical device company, Akacia Medical & Healthcare Group, has brought ADAMM-RSM™, an award-winning wearable that monitors respiratory functions, into the country. For further information go to: www.adamm.co.za

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Love the skin you in, with Happy Event Happy Event is a legacy brand with a rich heritage. For the past 50+ years, Happy Event’s range of stretchmark reduction and prevention body care products have been supporting women through all of life’s events – mothers during both antenatal and postnatal stages of their journey, women who’ve experienced weight fluctuation and teens going through puberty. Happy Event’s product formulations are paraben free and contain powerful key ingredient sourced from the finest olive oil orchards in Spain – pure olive oil of the highest quality. Its special formula works to rebuild your skin’s moisture barrier, improving its elasticity and allowing it to expand safely during pregnancy or weight fluctuation. It leaves your skin deliciously soft and reduces the appearance of stretch marks. It also works to prevent the formation of new stretch marks.

The Happy Event range includes:

Everyday range: A newly launched range for everybody that comprises Luxury Cream Bars and Body Butter, both of which are uniquely formulated to prevent stretch marks. Antenatal range: A range made with mothers in mind that comprises an Antenatal Massage Cream and Lotion that you use from the start of your pregnancy to help prevent stretchmarks, regenerate skin and regulate its natural moisturising system. Now available in an affordable and convenient 50ml. Firming range: Happy Event Firming Cream is made for postnatal mothers and those who’ve experienced nonpregnancy related weight loss or gain. It’s packed with natural ingredients such as pure olive oil, pink pepperslim, centella extract and collaplus and works to revitalise your skin by toning and reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Also available in the new 50ml. Available from Pick ‘n Pay, Dis-Chem, Clicks, Checkers and Takealot. #MyBodyMyRulesZA #BodyLoveZA

sticky notes

Exercising during pregnancy

Most exercises are safe to perform during pregnancy, as long as you exercise with caution and do not overdo it. The safest and most effective activities are swimming, brisk walking, indoor stationary cycling, step or elliptical machines, and low-impact aerobics.

What trimester is

most important to eat healthily?

During your second trimester, it's especially important to eat foods that are rich in calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin D. These nutrients will help your baby grow strong bones and teeth.

When to

breastfeed

Breastfeeding should ideally start soon after your baby is born. A baby is usually alert after birth and will spontaneously seek the breast if left undisturbed in skin-to-skin contact with their mother's body. Research suggests that a mother should allow her baby to feed when the baby shows it is ready.

How long should I wash my baby? About 5-10 minutes is more than enough for a baby bath. This is especially important if your baby has dry or sensitive skin.

Children Did you

know?

Increasing your water intake may help relieve constipation and reduce your risk of urinary tract infections, which are common during pregnancy.

and screen time

Children can easily be influenced by what they see or hear as the grow up, especially if it is on digital media. Digital media includes television, the Internet and smart devices. Some TV programmes are educational but many depict violent behaviour that you don’t want your children to imitate. Too much screen time can also detract from important developmental activities like reading, studying, play and exercise. Your child may also see things before they are emotionally ready to understand them. Parental control is of utmost importance.

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sticky notes

The effects of

Fine Motor Skills Activities for Kids

bullying in school

1. Play-dough and putty are often used as part of the 'heavy work' component of a sensory diet. 2. Different types of painting can help strengthen your child's hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. 3. Gardening and planting. 4. Construction skills using Lego blocks and puzzles. 5. Academic skills like colouring, drawing, writing and cutting skills with scissors.

Bullying during the early stages of school can have a long-lasting negative effect on children’s academic performance and social skills. It can also cause emotional distress, including low self-esteem, insomnia, depression and suicidal thoughts. In most cases, students who are victims of bullying suffer from stomach issues or headaches. Parents should always look out for signs of bullying and take immediate action.

Sleep time

When is it

not safe

for younger kids

to have sex during pregnancy?

You're at risk of pre-term labour (contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy) if you: • are experiencing vaginal bleeding, discharge, or cramping without any known cause, • your amniotic sac is leaking fluid or has ruptured membranes, and • also when your cervix has opened too early in pregnancy.

Younger kids need between 10 to 12 hours of sleep a night, so if your kids have an early rise time for daycare or school, make sure their bedtime is early enough to ensure they get a full night's rest. Kids who get an adequate amount of sleep have improved attention, behavior, learning, memory, and overall mental and physical health.

What you should eat during pregnancy to meet the needs of your growing little one? • Dairy products • Legumes • Sweet potatoes • Salmon

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

• Eggs • Broccoli and dark, leafy greens • Lean meat and proteins • Berries

• Whole grains • Avocados • Dried fruit • Fish liver oil

cover story

Business owner, model, mother & 'momfluencer'

Aamz somehow manages it all

BABY’S AND oke BEYOND™ sp o, to Aamirah Jan amz, also known as A n 31, a well-know from ‘momfluencer’ Cape Town.

Photo credit: Anneke Van Zyl and Petri Oeschger

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

cover story Please tell us more about yourself and your career.

I’m first and foremost a mom of two boys! I love spending time with family and friends, travelling, I love doing road trips and love the outdoors, the beach and shopping! If I’m not taking care of the kids then I’m taking care of the house. I love decor and designing and I love doing some DIY projects in my spare time. I'm a former model, but currently on a little break for a few months, and I also just finished my LLB Law Degree this year, which I've put on hold for now but I’m excited to get into it once the kids are a little older. I also run three businesses from home at the moment as a full-time stay at home mom. This was a decision I made for the kids.

As a full-time, stay-at-home mom, what do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy spending time with my kids... and being able to set a desired routine and be there for all those special moments and milestones, without missing out on anything important, while also building a strong bond. It gives me the opportunity to focus and invest all my time and energy in my little boys. I see it as a privilege that I definitely do not take for granted. And yes, it’s difficult and exhausting but even more rewarding to watch them grow into intelligent and compassionate little people.

You started out with a modelling career and are now also the founder of Mumzluv. Please tell us more about Mumzluv and what your vision is. I modelled locally and internationally for more than 10 years. After my kids came into my life so much changed and so did my priorities. I wanted to do something that aligned with my lifestyle with my kids. I still model part time, sometimes with my kids. Mumzluv is a blog site and platform for ALL women... whether you are young, mature, expecting or not, a single mom or married … and yes, even dads are welcome. It’s where I can share my own journey of love, laughter, emotions, experiences, difficulties and family with other moms. I work alongside many amazing brands for which I do creative content, marketing videos and shoots, reviews, blogs and articles on products and places as well as giveaways. I must add that I only represent brands I believe in and fully support. I also give some tips and advice to hopefully help or inspire other moms! In addition to my blog, I have a support group for moms which is a forum on which to share difficulties with other moms. It's a

platform where we can support each other and feel safe. It's created as a support group for anyone who needs advice, support, a friendly ear or just a place to share thoughts and questions, without being judged. There are many more exciting things happening and coming soon to Mumzluv and I’m very excited. You can subscribe and receive updates on my blog at www.Aamz.co.za

How do you cope with being a mom and also owner of three businesses?

Gosh, sometimes I ask myself that question! Honestly it’s hectic! There are days when I can’t get anything done... and then there are days that are a little bit easier. I remind myself everyday what’s important, and I try to be positive and that keeps me going. You have to have the right mindset, otherwise you will get lost in it all. It’s also good to have support... even if it’s just someone to talk to or someone who can relate. My parents always help out with the kids. And hubby is also a great help when it comes to the kids or my work. We take turns and we try to manage our time well.

You are very family orientated. What does family mean to you, and as a busy woman, what kind of support do you get? Family means the world to me! It’s what motivates me in everything I do. I’m blessed to have amazing and supportive parents and especially, a supportive husband. He helps me out so much. He is a real hands-on father which I am so grateful for. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

cover story Since lockdown he has been working from home which has also been a blessing in disguise for me. It's been a huge help, especially with a newborn in our family.

What do you love most about being a mom?

Being able to create life inside of you is the most beautiful and magical thing you can ever experience. As a mom, I see the world through my children’s eye and it’s really such a different perspective and outlook. I also see so much strength and patience in me that I never knew existed. Yes, being a mom is hard work, it’s stressful and it’s selfless! It can also get overwhelming at times and even lonely but it’s truly such a blessing. I love everything about being a mom. Having an unconditional love and bond with my children is so satisfying. And no matter what, you are perfect in their eyes! You are their hero. Being a mom changes you... it changes you into the best version of yourself. You obtained a law degree last year but your dream was to become a pediatrician. What made you change your mind? Yes, if I could, I’d still want to be a pediatrician as I have always loved children, and wanted to follow in my father's footsteps as a doctor. Law was my second choice. And I guess life just ended up taking me in another direction.

Having been a model for so many years, I am sure you like to keep fit and in shape. How do you keep fit and healthy?

To be honest, when I was younger I was lucky enough to be blessed with great

Aamirah’s favourites Movie: Twilight and Bring it On Music: This depends on my mood, but love songs never go out of style. My favorite artist is Enrique Iglesias. Food: Fillet steak and mashed potatoes. Home cooked meals with soft potatoes and sticky rice. Hobbies: Reading, painting, tennis, dancing and watching movies, but right now it's just playing games with the kids. Holiday destination: Italy! It’s so beautiful and romantic! Such a dream! Love it there.

genes. I could eat whatever I wanted and not pick up any weight! But that fairy tale came to an end after turning 30 and after having two kids. I then started training twice a week and basically just balanced my diet, making sure I get all my healthy foods in. I always loved eating and never liked diets. I’m actually more healthy after becoming a mom. My children keep me fit and I enjoy doing outdoor activities with them. I usually have a balanced diet and I make sure the kids eat healthy as well. But I’m very easy going. I also don’t believe one should rush into training after birth. You

need to give it time, give your body time to heal, bond with baby and don’t worry about getting back into shape too soon. My baby is now four months old and I will start training again in a few months and start getting back into shape.

What advice do you have for moms-to-be?

Be fully present in every moment with your kids. They don’t say time flies by for nothing. And enjoy the messy moments, trust me, you are going to miss it! Motherhood comes naturally, so don’t worry too much! You are already perfect in your baby’s eyes and only mom knows what’s best for her baby.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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true life story

Mom & baby meet in 2021 after both were ‘feared dead’

Tears of relief and joy as Nosipho beats COVID-19 to meet her premature baby at last

mother whose baby was delivered by emergency C-section at only 25 weeks while she was unconscious and on ventilator support for COVID-19, was overjoyed to meet her baby boy for the first time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Netcare N1 City Hospital in Goodwood, Cape Town.

Their emotional meeting followed after the hospital had to search for the mother, who spent a heartbroken Christmas mistakenly assuming her baby had been born too early to survive. “When they showed me my baby, I was crying because I was so happy, I just couldn’t believe it. He is alive,” Nosipho Nkantini of Eerste River, a professional nurse in the public sector, recalls of meeting her baby on 4 January, some three weeks after he came into the world on 17 December. “It was like a miracle, and I have decided to name him Oyena, which means ‘the one chosen by God’." In early December, when Nosipho was only halfway through her pregnancy, she developed symptoms of COVID-19. She

contacted her general practitioner, who initially did not suspect she had the virus and instead prescribed antibiotics. “I went for a pregnancy check-up, and I suddenly felt very short of breath. I had a rapid COVID-19 test, and it came back negative. Still, I couldn’t breathe and it was terrifying. I couldn’t have x-rays or certain treatments for my symptoms because I was pregnant. My second COVID-19 test came back positive,” explained Nosipho. She was transferred to Netcare N1 City Hospital and soon after arrival lost consciousness and was placed on a ventilator in the hospital’s ‘red’ zone dedicated to the care of COVID-19 positive patients. “From then I can’t remember anything until I woke up days later, when I was told that I had suffered complications and my baby had been delivered by emergency C-section,” Nosipho said. “They told me my baby was in the NICU, but I was so overwhelmed. Apart from the fact that I was still very weak recovering from COVID, I had previously lost a baby who was delivered at 28 weeks, so I was extremely traumatised imagining this happening again.” When Nosipho was well enough to be discharged, her baby still required highly

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true life story

“When the police arrived at my home, I thought they were coming to tell me that my baby had died. I could not believe it when they told me my baby boy was fine and was waiting for me in the hospital. It was such a big relief, and afterwards the police said, ‘we didn’t mean to scare you’.” Dr Ricky Dippenaar, a neonatologist who practises at Netcare N1 City Hospital, says that Nosipho’s baby boy – who at that stage had yet to be named – was very much alive, although he was born so prematurely.

specialised life support and care in the NICU. Unfortunately, during her emergency admission, the contact details for Nosipho and her next-of-kin were outdated and efforts to reach her became increasingly urgent.

“Initially, he had a bit of a stormy course, as he was born at only 25 weeks’ gestation, and also because his mother had been so ill with COVID-19 while he was in the womb,” said Dr Dippenaar.

After Nosipho completed her isolation period for COVID-19 she was finally able to see her baby for the first time on 4 January. “I was so happy but at the same time it was very difficult not being able to hold him at first. The staff in the NICU were saying he was a miracle baby, and we hope that he will soon grow strong enough so take him home.” “I am so grateful to all the doctors and the hospital staff who cared for my baby and I, and for bringing us together. As a healthcare worker myself, I am especially thankful to all who are on the frontline of caring for people with COVID-19, and I owe my life to them.” Nosipho extended special thanks to gynaecologist Dr Bedwill Jentel, physician Dr Chris Greyling, neonatologist, Dr Dippenaar, paediatric intensivist Dr Shetil Nana and the neonatology team at the hospital. She and the social worker both expressed appreciation to the Kleinvlei Police Station for their prompt assistance and their vital role in uniting mother and child.

Social worker Ronel Grobler was enlisted to assist in reaching the baby’s mother, but the festive season added to the difficulties as they reached out to doctors and their staff – many of whom were on holiday – in an attempt to get hold of her.

“Thankfully the tiny baby tested negative for COVID-19, which is often the case with babies born to COVID-19 positive mothers, however, the mother’s COVID can still impact the unborn baby. He has made good progress, and is taking full feeds and continues to gain weight.”

“We were very concerned about Nosipho, and when all else failed we contacted the local police, who promised to assist us in the search,” said Grobler.

Dr Dippenaar explained that many mothers whose babies need to be cared for in a NICU environment experience ‘double separation’.

"I am a professional nurse, and as I was at high risk for COVID-19 because I am diabetic, my employer moved me to an office role, where I was part of the tracking and tracing team assisting COVID-19 patients and their contacts to help fight the spread of the coronavirus,” Nosipho explained.

Meanwhile, Nosipho was in despair. “At home, I was too scared to phone the hospital because I had convinced myself my baby had died, and I couldn’t bear to have my worst fears confirmed. Christmas without him was terrible, I was so, so stressed,” she said.

“Double separation is when the mother cannot hold her baby and can no longer feel the baby inside her. Psychologically this is very tough, and in this case, it was further compounded by the mother’s history and traumatic COVID-19 experience.”

“This virus moves so fast, and it can have devastating effects. By the time someone in the family becomes sick, often the virus has already infected their loved ones and the people around them. COVID-19 is real, and we must protect each other by following all the precautions.” 

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Nosipho appealed to the public to take COVID-19 seriously and do everything possible to prevent its spread.

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back to school

It’s time to boost your

child’s immune system

The kids have been at home for almost two months, but in just a few short weeks, they will be back at school. Most of us heeded the President’s plea to keep safe, sanitise and stay home, which means that our children have been around fewer people, have been exposed to less germs, and may require an immunity boost. By Catherine Clark, owner and founder of the Harvest Table 18

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back to school

atherine Clark, owner and founder of the Harvest Table, says that even if you’ve already started giving them vitamins, there are other ways to help boost immunity. “A strong immune system does not necessarily mean your child will not get sick, but their body will be in a better position to fight against bacteria and viruses,” she adds.

Catherine offers these four ways to boost your child’s immunity:

Encourage adequate sleep time: Sleep is one of the most important components of the immune system. Many studies show that sleep deprivation increases susceptibility to infection in children. The Sleep Foundation recommends that children aged 3-5 years get 10-14 hours of sleep, and those aged 6-13 get 9-11 hours of sleep. To help give your child a longer, better rest at night, it is essential to get them back into a well-defined sleep time routine. Have set bed- and wake-up times, limit noise in the home by switching off devices and wind down by reading them a story.

Keep up the hygiene: According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing hands prevents illnesses and the spread of infections to others. It also recommends regular hand washing because it helps prevent 30% of diarrhoea-related illnesses, and 20% respiratory infections. Encourage your children to sanitise regularly, but to also wash their hands

often (and not only when they are visibly dirty!). Furthermore, clean their toys and high-touch surfaces often to limit the transfer of germs.

Make movement a part of play: Research shows that prolonged hours of sitting can increase the risk of upper respiratory infections to two or three times a year, but moderate exercise can reduce this by stimulating an immune response in the body. Children don’t spend as much time outside as they used to due to distractions like television and other devices. It can be challenging to encourage them to do something outside, so it’s important to make outdoor play fun. And it’s not enough to tell your children to play in the yard, you need to get involved too! They will be more motivated if mom or dad is doing it as well.

Up the probiotics and prebiotics: About 70% of the body's immune

Sources: 1. https://journals.lww.com/pidj/fulltext/2013/10000/Sleep_and_Infection__No_ Snooze,_You_Lose_.23.aspx 2. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/children-and-sleep/how-much-sleep-do-kids-need 3. https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/why-handwashing.html 4. https://search.proquest.com/openview/aed2de32fd66e66738ad14d2d0a277d5/1? pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2043523 5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2515351/ 6. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2013.00445/full

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cells are found in the gut. There are good and bad bacteria found in the gut. Probiotics increase the good bacteria and reduce the potential damage caused by the harmful bacteria. Prebiotics, on the other hand, stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria and directly impact the body’s defence system by decreasing susceptibility to inflammatory disease. You can increase your child’s probiotic and prebiotic intake with The Harvest Table’s new kid’s range. It contains prebiotics, probiotics, collagen, bone broth, magnesium, barley grass juice, and lion’s mane mushrooms — all vital ingredients for growing bodies. Plus, it tastes like a milk shake so it’s easy enough to get them to take it! “Illness is a part of life. Your child is likely to still get sick, no matter how many vitamins and supplements they take, but boosting their immunity builds up their ability to fight off illnesses quicker and gives them a fighting chance,” Catherine concludes. 

Since inception in 2018, The Harvest Table has been creating pure, wholesome products packaged earth consciously to change the lives of our customers positively by educating them and helping them to make better food choices daily. For more information, visit www.theharvesttable.co.za

birth photography

Capturing

those first few moments Giving birth and meeting your child for the first time is one of the most life changing and significant human experiences. Birth photography allows you to document one of the most extraordinary moments of your life. Much like your wedding day, a birth is a once in a lifetime moment. There are no second takes, no redoes. That first look, that first touch, that first hold. Those memories don’t have to fade.

When you have hired a professional birth photographer there is no pressure on anyone to remember to take photos and no worry that the moment will be missed. Your partner and your birth

Your birth photographer is another person on your side, another

touch

Birth photography can also help you rediscover a love for your body. Shifting your perspective to one of celebration and recognition at the miracle you have performed. Giving you a newfound appreciation of exactly what your amazing body is capable of.

team are free to fully focus on being present, focused and supportive.

hospital

It can be used as an amazing visual, therapeutic healing and empowering tool after the birth too. For those mothers who experience or have experienced birth trauma, it can help to piece together those blurry fragments and tiny details you didn’t register in the moment. Birth photography provides evidence of your incredible strength. Looking back through

your beautiful birth photos will get your oxytocin flowing and aid in supporting you in your transition to motherhood and bonding with your baby.

SABPA B irth Photo graphy -

irth photography is in no way all about the crowning shot, some clients don’t even want those images at all. A good birth photographer is able to get creative with angles, crops and editing to protect your modesty. Birth photography is all about emotion. It’s about capturing your strength, your focus, your peace, your power, how your partner gazes at you with adoration and admiration, the look on your faces when you meet your baby and all those fresh newborn moments.

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birth photography

person to advocate for you, another person to root for you, and another person to gently encourage you. Your birth photographer will care about you and will care about the outcome of your birth. Birth is powerful, beautiful and utterly genuine - one of the most sacred moments a human could witness.

About the South African Birth Photographers Association (SABPA)

Founded in 2013, The South African Birth Photographers Association (SABPA) represents professional birth photographers in South Africa. It aims to encourage the development and growth of the professional birth photography industry in South Africa. The association is guided by an independent advisory board, consisting of various medical professionals. The SABPA Oath of Conduct is the cornerstone of the association and provides a benchmark for the birth photography industry in South Africa.

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

ing those first

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The association provides a stable platform (built on trusting relationships with other healthcare professionals and institutions) for birth photographers to grow their businesses from and build communities. SABPA ultimately strives to bridge the gap between medicine and the humanities by integrating existing clinical excellence with positive patient experiences. SABPA was founded in a time when no birth photographer was allowed at a hospital birth in South Africa. It was established to help birth photographers get and keep a foot in the proverbial door, protect the industry and connect with relevant people. To this day, we have greater access success than any of the other global birth markets. We achieve this by acting as a platform and facilitator for birth photographers. All our members have to write and pass their SABPA Entry Exams and take the SABPA Oath of Conduct to become a registered member of the association. SABPA photographers are credible and trustworthy, so parents can rest assured that their photographer is reputable and knowledgeable and continuously remains informed and educated

SABPA Birth

Photograph

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about the industry to help serve their clients to the best of their abilities. As a new parent, choosing the right birth photographer to capture your experience is a big decision, and SABPA strives to make your birth experience one to remember. SABPA is not an accreditation or regulatory body. Instead, it empowers parents, photographers, hospitals and healthcare providers by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to uphold the integrity, safety and privacy of the birth space and its role players. The platform allows parents to have their birth stories captured beautifully and professionally by a registered birth photographer. Whether it be water birth, emergency caesarean section, planned c-section, VBAC, home delivery, medicated or non-medicated. YOUR birth is YOUR beauty. 

culture & customs

Navigating the cultures & customs

of raising a baby in SA

Welcome to parenting – the time in our lives when a choice is made to be responsible as we dedicate our life to the growth and nurturing of another. Yet, this 'rainbow nation' of ours, this cultural melting pot, provides many ways to raise a child. It all depends on who you are, and who you (or your parents) want your child to be.

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culture & customs

n South Africa, community parenting is an integral part of raising a child. Through the sharing and collaborating on the best methods to raise a child within our communities (neighbours, relatives, etc.), cultural practices have been passed down generations with many still used today. Although some methods have advanced over time, such as wrapping your baby on your back to rock them to sleep; this evolved to rocking beds or chairs. You can see the cultural and traditional roots in many baby care technologies. Yet, the basic principle of these modern or advanced methods generally has cultural and historical roots.

Pampers parenting expert, Sister Yolanda Mpilo, explains: • The bond between the parents and child can grow stronger or weaker depending on the way in which they grow up. Some cultures have ceremonies of thanksgiving and others prefer occasional naps with their newborn or toddler – we are all different.

• Most traditional doctors are also accredited with the Health Department. Parents who prefer this option for their child’s healthcare have the option to verify that their practitioner is registered with the Traditional Health Practice (THP) and also aligned with guidelines of the National Department of Health (NDoH). This verification process is also recommended for parents seeking a paediatrician for their child. South Africa is one of the most culturally dynamic countries on the continent. Often, multiple cultures, traditions and customs are harmonised to raise a child. However, many cultural practices differ. In some cultures a pregnant woman expecting to deliver will be advised to give birth at home with the help of the www.babysandbeyond.co.za

eldest woman in the family or a midwife, whereas another culture may prefer the expectant mom to be near her own mother or grandmother for elder guidance and support when preparing to deliver in a hospital. “Many South African traditional customs dictate that an introduction ceremony to the family’s ancestors be performed when a child is born. It is also customary that a newborn is not allowed to be seen by the public during their first three months of life, so this may be an important custom to follow with respect to the family and traditions outlined by one’s culture,” says Sister Yolanda. Culture is an integral part of raising a child. With so many cultures living together in this society, it is understandable that some parents put outdated cultural practices aside in favour of their own parenting style. Yet, cultural practices do evolve while others are cast aside until obsolete. Over the years, many cultural methods have been improved, reframed, and even joined together. In the past, our parents used reusable nappies and a warm wet cloth when changing our diapers. Due to advancements in human living standards

as well as convenience, this practice is seldom used now. The creation of disposable nappies, which companies like Pampers have introduced to the world, has made a positive impact and become an evolution of a commonly passed down method of changing a baby. When it comes to the nappy change, most parents understand that traditional methods are a sign of the times they were invented rather than a necessary cultural practise for their baby today. "Some customs have evolved as medical science has surpassed the need for these practices. The choices we make in terms of leaving some of our customs behind and carrying others forward is a personal journey that only the parents have the right to embark on. The best advice is to take a moment and simply fact check all you need to know about raising a baby and see if these practices are either dangerous or not,” Sister Yolanda adds. Moving towards a post-pandemic South Africa, it’s more important than ever before to regularly consult closely with your nurse or doctor, along with your traditional methods of raising a baby, to make sure there is as little risk as possible in raising your baby. 

The choices we make in terms of leaving some of our customs behind and carrying others forward is a personal journey that only the parents have the right to embark on.

eye care

Now they see you, now they don’t - preventing early childhood vision loss

One in five children have underlying vision abnormalities that may lead to lazy eye, or Amblyopia. Of these, around 30% of the children will eventually develop Amblyopia: an incurable condition that is a major cause of blindness in children worldwide. With over a million children born in South Africa each year, more than 50,000 children will unnecessarily lose their vision in one or both eyes. Instrument based vision screening is one of the only ways to detect underlying risk factors for Amblyopia in children younger than three-years-old. By Dr Robert Daniel, Allison Powell & Byron-Mahieu van der Linde 24

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eye care

If this window of development is hindered, the ability to interpret visual images may be irreparably damaged, leading to Amblyopia. The affected person would thus suffer life-long vision loss, including possible blindness. One or both eyes may become amblyopic when vision in the affected eye does not develop naturally as a result of some interference in the development of the neural pathway between the eyes and brain. After the age of eight years it is near impossible to reverse vision loss caused by Amblyopia. However, if the cause of vision loss is addressed at the critical development phase, by means of a suitable intervention method, vision development may continue in a normal way. Examples of such interventions include: • issuing of spectacles, which result in clear images being received by the brain, or • surgical removal of possible cataracts, which would remove the obstruction to light being received by the retinal layer at the back of the eye.

Early detection of vision abnormalities

What is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia – commonly referred to as lazy eye – is a condition resulting from vision loss in children before the age of four and which is mostly preventable. However, as it can be quite difficult to test the eyes of children so young, Amblyopia is often left undiagnosed. Children are also masterful at masking shortcomings in their vision by adapting to their environment, whether unwittingly or wilfully, to cope. It is, thus, not always evident to an observer that there is an underlying vision problem. Conventional eye examinations are very difficult in pre-verbal children and this is where early vision screening devices play an invaluable role. Children are not born with 20/20 vision: it develops from birth. The neural retina – the nerve layer at the back of the eye, responsible for vision that receives light and codes it into neural messages sent to the brain – develops rapidly in response to visual stimuli from birth until the ages of two to three years, where after its development rapidly decreases until the age of around eight years. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Of course, intervention is subject to the underlying vision abnormality first being detected. This is no easy task in the preliterate and pre-verbal age demographic. Consequently, children younger than three years of age – especially in South Africa – do not undergo regular vision screening, in contradiction of the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP). This highly esteemed professional body released a policy statement and clinical report in 2016, stating that examination of the eyes and visual system should begin at nursery school level and continue throughout childhood. The AAP highly recommend regular early vision screening of all children.

eye care Instrument-based vision screening technology has been shown to be the most effective and accurate way of detecting and diagnosing underlying risk factors that may lead to Amblyopia in young children. German medical devices manufacturer Plusoptix GmbH has developed the gold standard in this early vision screening technology. Its line of vision screeners are among the few mobile auto refractors available worldwide that are both FDA approved and CE marked. The range of award-winning, userfriendly Plusoptix vision screening devices can be operated by anybody, from specialist ophthalmologists through primary healthcare workers and even laypersons. The compact, mobile design allows the user to perform an accurate vision screening anywhere. It is therefore perfectly suited to the need for making sight-saving technology

available to all children in South Africa. Moreover, the vision screening is performed one metre away from the child and can be completed in a couple of seconds. This is one of the most effective and safest medical screenings in the age of COVID-19 physical distancing.

Vision abnormalities that may lead to Amblyopia

Refractive errors: Vision focusing errors, such as short sightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism (misshapen cornea) could lead to Amblyopia – especially when the error is greater in one eye. This causes the brain to receive two different sized images from each eye, which the brain will not be able to reconcile. The eye that produces distorted images will eventually be suppressed, resulting in stymied development of the neural pathway and functional blindness in the affected eye.

Strabismus: Squinting – referred to as strabismus – may also lead to Amblyopia. It is more easily recognisable than refractive errors. Strabismus is often caused by one eye turning in or out; and less commonly caused by an eye squinting up or down, or even obliquely. The brain receives two spatially separated images that it cannot fuse and the image from the deviating eye is then suppressed, eventually leading to functional blindness, as in the case of undiagnosed refractive errors. Pathological conditions: A less common cause of Amblyopia is ‘deprivation Amblyopia’. It is brought about when the visual pathway in one eye is physically obscured, either by an obstruction, such as a corneal scar, eyelid tumour, retinoblastoma (tumour of the retina inside the eye), cataract, droopy eyelid, or as a result of medical conditions, such as paediatric glaucoma.

Avoiding crises Amblyopia is a childhood disease that develops rapidly and unnoticeably. Most instances of Amblyopia are completely asymptomatic! Many parents assume their child has adequate vision, but the reality may be vastly different. Early vision screening is essential to ensure that your child has every opportunity to develop healthy vision. It is also completely compatible with COVID-19 physical distancing regulations.

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eye care

Conservative approach to myopia

in children is short-sighted Commonly heard advice to parents that there is nothing that can be done to slow down vision deterioration in children with myopia is short-sighted. Treatment to slow down the progression of myopia is available and it is not new. Unfortunately, most optometrists still take a conservative approach. By Adrian Yssel, an optometrist and Director at Dynamic Vision Optometrists

drian Yssel, an optometrist and Director at Dynamic Vision Optometrists who has been practicing myopia control successfully for the past 10 years, says there are three tried and tested ways to slow down the progression of myopia in children and more parents should be made aware of the treatment options. “If you have begun to dread your child’s eye exams because you know that you will inevitably be told that their vision has deteriorated, that they need a stronger prescription and there is not much else that can be done to stabilise the deterioration, it is time to dig deeper into other options. You can control the deterioration of your child’s vision with new advanced

technologies and you don’t have to accept that there is nothing that can be done.” “Taking a conservative approach to treating myopia in children increases the risks of cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachments and myopic macular degeneration to name a few. The earlier you intervene to control myopia in young children, the better their chances of avoiding these conditions. With myopia, it is impossible to repair the damage that has already been done. There is no going back. Taking control early on to slow the progression offers the very best prognosis,” he says. Yssel is concerned about the myopia 'pandemic' in young people that is being fuelled by the vast amount of time that they spend on near vision tasks. Today,

approximately 34% of people are myopic and by 2030, it is predicted that 40% of people can suffer from myopia.1 Less time outdoors in natural light and more time indoors staring at computer screens and devices are impacting young, developing eyes. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that young children who sleep in very dark rooms are less likely to develop myopia than children that sleep with night-lights or in bright rooms. “Not only are we seeing more children with myopia, but the ages at which they are being diagnosed are lower than in the past. This can be largely attributed to the very young age at which they start playing on smartphones and devices. This prolonged use of devices from a young age exposes their developing eyes to the www.babysandbeyond.co.za

eye care long term, negative effects of the blue and purple light spectrum of light that is emitted from device screens," says Yssel.

night. This method is well tested in Asian children, with less knowledge currently in our demographic population.

risk of health issues such as cataracts and glaucoma which normal contact lenses and laser eye surgery cannot fix,” he says.

“Older generations were never exposed to these high-energy levels of light while growing up. That is why we are seeing such a high incidence of myopia in children nowadays,” he explains, adding that the intense, constant, high contrast near visual tasks that have become the norm for children during the COVID19 lockdown period are exacerbating the problem.

“Both methods also show a reduction in myopia progression. By using specialised contact lenses in conjunction with the eye drops could help to reduce myopia significantly. This is very exciting,” says Yssel.

Yssel questions: “Why would you want to risk these devastating conditions from occurring in your child’s eyes when there are effective methods for slowing the progression of myopia?

Three methods of myopia control

So, what are the options for parents who want to stop their children’s eyes from getting worse? According to Yssel, there are three methods of myopia control. The first method, called Ortho Keratology, is backed by considerable research and has the longest history of successfully reducing myopia progression by 36-56%2 in children. It involves gently reshaping the front of the eye with a special contact lens that is worn while sleeping. Not all optometrists offer the treatment but should be able to refer patients to other optometrists who have completed advanced courses in Ortho Keratology.

He cautions against delaying getting stronger lens prescriptions for a child that is developing myopia on the presumption that it could worsen the condition. Getting stronger lenses will not cause the eyes to get weaker. “Furthermore, the idea that you can consider contact lenses or eventually just go for laser eye surgery once the eye has naturally stopped growing is not advisable. The truth is that myopic eyes (eyes that have grown too long) have a far greater

“If your optometrist doesn’t mention these myopia control options to you, start the conversation and investigate further. It is also important that you have regular, comprehensive eye exams performed on your child to ensure that myopia is caught early if it starts to develop. Children are not always able to articulate that they are having trouble with seeing. If myopia develops, start with myopia control measures immediately. The world’s foremost experts on myopia control advocate starting as soon as the eye starts to show early abnormal length growth.” 

The second, relatively newer treatment method involves using a specialised, soft contact lens during the day. Although not commercially available in South Africa yet, Yssel says that an advanced progressive soft contact lens that is available for older patients also works for children. “The advanced, progressive soft contact lens which is prescribed for older patients who require reading prescriptions to see clearly at near distances can be used to slow myopia progression in young children (off label). “The third method involves using a well-known eye drop in a very diluted concentration just before going to sleep at www.babysandbeyond.co.za

References: 1. By Dwight Akerman, O. M. (2020, 04 01). Is Myopia a Pandemic? Retrieved from Review of Myopia management: http://reviewofmm.com/is-myopia-a-pandemic/ 2. Jennifer Harthan, I. C. (2020, 05 01). Effectiveness of Orthokeratology in Myopia Control. Retrieved from Clinical trials: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03465748

education

Understanding dyscalculia

- the maths version of dyslexia

Lots of kids struggle with maths, but for some the difficulties go beyond a little bit of frustration. If a child’s maths troubles are serious — and persistent — they may be a sign of a learning disorder called dyscalculia.

yscalculia (pronounced dis·cal·koo·lee·a) is a mathematics learning disorder characterised, among other things, by the difficulty in memorising simple numbers and calculation. On a day-to-day basis, it can translate into misreading the time on a watch, price tag or car license plate, as well as having difficulty remembering phone numbers, number sequences or calculating the return on a purchase.

result in failure in the mathematics subject, although not always the case, it can translate into real life difficulties that cause frustration and low-self-esteem,” says Smartick co-founder, Javier Arroyo.

Though nearly as common as dyslexia, dyscalculia is neither well-known nor well-understood by many parents and teachers and so kids struggle for years before receiving a diagnosis.

With the aim of helping the educational community and parents detect dyscalculia early, Smartick has launched a free standardised online assessment that allows for quick and easy identification of children at risk of dyscalculia.

According to Smartick global research, approximately 5 to 7% of a country’s population may suffer in silence from dyscalculia and that in a class of 25 students, it is likely that at least one child has the learning disorder. For a population of 57+ million in South Africa, and if similar percentages are anything to go by, it could equate to around four million people potentially being undiagnosed. “Dyscalculia tends to be confused with other disorders such as attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), low IQ or even study laziness. While it can

Online assessment allows quick identification of children at risk of dyscalculia

At the end of the assessment, a report is immediately generated and sent with the child’s strengths and weaknesses in each of the evaluated areas. If, according to the results, a child is at risk of dyscalculia, it is recommended that parents or guardians visit a professional for a complete evaluation, which includes psychological tests for intelligence, attention and reading, in addition to specific tests for maths.

The assessment takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and includes tasks around three fundamental areas of mathematical learning: comparison and recognition of numbers, Arabic numerals and numbering and arithmetic.

“Children with dyscalculia need adapted daily training based on a deep understanding of concepts and procedures. Your child might be the next Bill Gates and can help change the world, but he’s misdiagnosed and misunderstood,” concludes Arroyo.

“The exercises for each evaluate the ability to recognise and manipulate numerical quantities without counting, and numerical processing that use verbal symbolic code, such as number recognition and comparison. Children with dyscalculia often have severe and persistent difficulties in learning arithmetic,” says Arroyo.

*The standardised dyscalculia assessment needs to be completed on a tablet and is aimed at children from first to fourth grade. It was developed in collaboration with the Universities of Malaga and Valladolid in Spain, with more than 800 students in different areas of Spain participating in the initial assessment validation study.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

NEW AND IMPROVED NESTLÉ® NIDO® 3+, TAILOR-MADE FOR SOUTH AFRICAN LITTLE CHILDREN you Did w? kno

Childhood is an important stage that requires age-specific nutrition. This is because your little one will reach many key milestones and acquire skills that are essential for future social and academic success. 50% of South African children between the ages of 1 and 5 years still don’t get enough vital nutrients in their daily diet.1,2

43% are vitamin A-deficient which negatively affects their eyesight.3

42% are zincdeficient which may affect their ability to fight infections.3

40% are irondeficient which results in extreme fatigue and slows growth and development.3

The new NESTLÉ® NIDO® 3+ recipe has been enhanced to meet the unique nutritional needs of South African little children at every stage of development. 3 – 5 years

Vitamin A, zinc and iron are some of the nutrients that most South African little children lack.3 Immuno-nutrients such as zinc, vitamins A, C, D, E and lactic acid-producing bacteria, Lactobacillus Protectus (L. rhamnosus), help support normal functioning of their immune system.4-8 Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and DHA help support your child’s normal brain development.9-10

IMPORTANT NOTICE: A well-balanced diet, both during pregnancy and after delivery, helps sustain an adequate supply of breastmilk. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended during the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of adequate nutritious complementary foods, along with sustained breastfeeding up to two years of age and beyond. NESTLÉ® NIDO® 3+ is not a breastmilk substitute. As babies grow at different rates, seek advice from your healthcare professional on the appropriate time when your baby should start receiving this product. References 1. Unicef The state of the world’s children 2019: Children, food and nutrition 2. Labadarios D, Swart R, Maunder EMW, et al. Executive summary of the National Food Consumption Survey 3. 2016 South African Demographic and Health Survey. 2019. https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR337/FR337.pdf 4. Council for Early Child Development. The Importance of Early Child Development. Available at: http://earlylearning.ubc. ca/media/presentation_ slides/presentation_slides/the_importance_of_early_child_development_-widescreen.pptx Last accessed 23 october 2019 5. EFSA NDA PANEL. (EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies). 2014 Scientific opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to zinc and normal function of the immune system pursuant to Article 14 Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 EFSA Journal 2014:12(5): 3653 6. Segers ME, Lebeer S. Towards a better understanding of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG-host interactions. Microb Cell Fact. 2014;13 Suppl 1:S7 7. Hatakka K, Savilahti E, Pönkä A, Meurman JH, et al. Effect of long term consumption of probiotic milk on infections in children attending day care centres: double blind, randomised trial. BMJ. 2001;322(7298):1327 8. Gerristen C, Ormel G. Pre/Probiotics – Monographic special issue: Probiotics to prevent upper respiratory tract infections. Agro Food Industry Hi Tech. 2016;27(5):xiv-xvii. 9. Weiser MJ et al. Docosahexanoic Acid and Cognition throughout the Lifespan. Nutrients. 2016; 17:99 10. Calder P. Docosahexaenoic Acid. 2016. Ann Nutr Metab; 69 (suppl 1): 8–21

education

Why you should send your child to Grade R It’s estimated that only four out of every 10 South African children go to Grade R before they start Grade 1 – and this lack of pre-primary education could put them at a disadvantage that they may never fully recover from, according to a 2019 report by UNICEF.

he report, "A World Ready to Learn: Prioritizing quality early childhood education", suggests that children who get at least one year of pre-primary education are more likely to develop the critical skills they need to succeed in school, and are less likely to repeat grades or drop out of school later in their school career. Bailey Thomson Blake, Chief of Schools at independent private school network SPARK Schools, says Grade R teaches important social skills, problem-solving and a familiarity with routine and procedures that set the child up for the rest of their school life. “Every year, we see children come straight into Grade 1 without any preprimary education, and it’s notable that many of these learners struggle far more than their peers. That’s why I strongly recommend that parents consider Grade R as a preparatory step towards formal education,” says Thomson Blake.

She says there are four major reasons to send a child to Grade R.

1. Grade R starts teaching children fundamental skills, such as numbers and letter formation, which form the basis for their continuing education. They learn the difference between alphabetical and phonetic knowledge, reading, writing, spelling, counting, adding and subtracting.

2. Grade R ensures a smooth transition between pre-primary and primary school, as children become familiar with the school environment and the routine. They learn that there is a set time for everything and they should work towards a goal at a particular time. 3. Grade R scholars learn social emotional skills, which help them develop self-awareness, accountability for their actions and empathy for others. They also get to learn teamwork through activities that are group-centred and require them to cooperate. 4. Grade R learners are exposed to technology, which plays a major part

in modern life. Technology also makes learning fun and engaging for scholars. The choice of where a child goes to Grade R is often an emotional decision for parents. Thomson Blake suggests that parents should look for a school that has tools and resources that support social-emotional development, fine and gross motor skills development as well as academic progress. “If children do not get a solid foundation in early childhood, it limits their chances to succeed. On the other hand, learners who attend high-quality pre-school programmes get a significant advantage,” she adds.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

fertility

Oxidative stress and its harmful effect on sperm production

For many couples, starting a family happens naturally without any detailed planning or intervention. Unfortunately, when trying to conceive, 15% of couples struggle and may need to seek medical advice about how to improve their chances of falling pregnant1. 34

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fertility

Did you know that of the approximate one in six couples who are infertile, almost half of these cases can be attributed to a fertility issue in men1? Male fertility is dependent on various factors, including: • Quantity - too little sperm in an ejaculation might make it more difficult to get pregnant. • Movement - known as motility. A man is most likely to be fertile if at least 40% of his sperm are moving. • Structure – known as morphology. Normal sperm have oval heads and long tails, which work together to propel them. The more sperm a man has with a normal shape and structure, the more likely he is to be fertile. Those wanting to start a family may be familiar with some of the do’s and don’ts of increasing the quality of sperm. These include maintaining a healthy weight, following a healthy diet, preventing sexually transmitted diseases, managing stress, exercising, not smoking, limiting alcohol, avoiding lubricants during sex and even keeping the scrotum cool2.

How many of us know what oxidative stress is and the harmful effect this can have on sperm production?1

Simply put, oxidative stress is an imbalance between oxygen-containing molecules called free radicals, which react with other molecules in your body and antioxidants, which stabilise free radicals, making them less reactive. Oxidation is a normal and necessary process that takes place, but oxidative stress occurs when there is a disparity between free radical activity and antioxidant activity3. 30% to 40% of infertile men in the United States have elevated levels of what medical science calls reactive oxygen species (ROS)1. Oxidative stress and ROS have been associated with reduced sperm motility, concentration and morphology or structure1. Fortunately for the many men whose fertility may be affected by oxidative stress1, an innovative new health supplement is now available in South Africa. SINOPOL® him contains the powerful antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid and myo-inositol, a vitamin-like www.babysandbeyond.co.za

substance4. Both have been shown to assist with the production of healthy sperm and support fertility by reducing oxidative stress, while also re-balancing testosterone and decreasing insulin resistance, yet another factor that can negatively affect sperm health 1,5,6,7. SINOPOL® him also contains coenzyme Q10, selenium, zinc and vitamins B2, B6 and B12, all active ingredients designed to help support normal male fertility and reproductive health5. We all produce some free radicals naturally in our bodies through processes like exercise or inflammation. This is normal and part of our body’s complex way of keeping itself healthy. We are also exposed to free radicals daily in the environment from the ozone, certain pesticides and cleaners, cigarette smoke, radiation and pollution. A diet high in sugar, fat, and alcohol can also contribute to increased free radical production3. While it is impossible to completely avoid free radical exposure and oxidative stress, is it important to try and increase

your levels of antioxidants and decrease the formation of these harmful free radicals. One way is to make sure that you get enough antioxidants in your diet. Eating five servings per day of a variety of fruits and vegetables is essential in providing your body with what it needs to produce antioxidants3. Adopting healthy lifestyle practices to promote fertility, and avoiding things that can damage it, may improve a couple’s chances of conceiving. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about SINOPOL® him, which is now available in the vitamin aisle at leading pharmacies. This supplement has been shown to be well tolerated and is taken as one to two sachets daily, at least an hour before meals. For optimal results, take two sachets daily, 10 hours apart.  DISCLAIMER: This editorial has been commissioned and brought to you by iNova Pharmaceuticals. Content in this editorial is for general information only and is not intended to provide medical or other professional advice. For more information on your medical condition and treatment options, speak to your healthcare professional.

editor's choice baby Oh So Heavenly Born to be Cute Fragrance-Free Aqueous Cream, R34.99 | available at Clicks stores nationwide.

Vital Baby NOURISH Power Suction Bowl, R124.99 | available at Clicks, Babies R Us, Baby City & online at Babies Africa, Loot and Takealot.

Epimax Baby Bum Barrier Cream, R79.95 | available at Dischem, Clicks & most independent pharmacies.

Oh So Heavenly Splish Splash XXL Gentle Bubble Bath 2L, R79.99 | available at Clicks stores nationwide.

Vital Baby® NOURISH™ start weaning spoons 5pk, R69.36 | available at Clicks, Babies R Us, Baby City & online at Babies Africa, Loot & Takealot.

Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Smart Stages Puppy, R599.99 | available at Babies R Us, Baby City, www.thekidzone.co.za & www.takealot.co.za

Fisher Price Cassia Crane & Cargo Set, R599.99 | available at Babies R Us, Baby City, www.thekidzone.co.za & www.takealot.co.za Jomar Conditioning Scalp Oil, R115 | available at selected baby stores & online at www.jomarbaby.com

Pick n Pay Tiny Tots Baby Shampoo, 500ml, R54.99 | available at Pick n Pay stores. Pick n Pay Tiny Tots Baby Powder, 200g, R23.99 | available at Pick n Pay stores.

Nunuki Maxi’s Pesky Bug Cream 150ml, R190 | available at Pick n Pay, Kids Emporium & online at www.nunuki.co.za

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editor's choice baby PnP Tiny Tots Midi size 3, 76 nappies, R169.99 | available at Pick n Pay stores.

Chardine Goat’s milk baby soap, R65 | available at www.chardine.co.za Chardine Goat’s milk body lotion, R180 | available at www.chardine.co.za

Bonnisan 120ml, The complete digestive tonic, R84.99 | available at Dischem, Clicks & independent pharmacies.

Chardine Goat’s milk bath soak, R70 | available at www.chardine.co.za

Himalaya Baby Shampoo 200ml, R34.99 | available at all Clicks, Dis-Chem & all leading pharmacies.

Pick n Pay Tiny Tots Petroleum Jelly Fragrance Free, 250ml, R25.99 | available at Pick n Pay stores.

Baby Baby

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Baby Picnic Basket, R1895 (delivery excl. nationwide), Embroidery can be added, dummy and bottle pouch available in pink and blue | available at www.bebedeparis.co.za

Pick n Pay Tiny Tots Baby Oil, 500ml, R59.99 | available at Pick n Pay stores.

Nunuki Protecting Sun Screen 150ml, R190 | available at Pick n Pay, Kids Emporium & online at www.nunuki.co.za

Vtech Baby My First Gift Set, available in boy or girl, R659 | available at Babies R Us, Takealot & Loot.

Bringing South Africa together, one squeeze at a time!

#SQ-EASY Introducing the SQ-Easy® multi-purpose wristband, made from kitchen grade, hypoallergenic silicone that is waterproof & can be filled with sunscreen, perfume, cologne, insect repellent & so much more. SQ-EASY is available in an array of cool, funky, candy colours, so now you can have one for every occasion. 083 703 8501 - Shirley l 072 436 6297 - Jolene support@sq-easy.co.za l www.sq-easy.co.za

feature

The story of SQ-Easy - bringing South Africa together, one squeeze at a time! The city of Welkom in the Free State has produced many talented entrepreneurs, but by far the most innovative in these pandemic times, the SQ-easy team has set their creative and business acumen to good use to create the SQ-Easy wristband!

resourceful young mother of two primary school children, Jolene was frustrated to realise that her younger son's sanitizer bottle was always at the bottom of his school bag, unused. Jolene’s entrepreneurial skills kicked in and a business idea was conceived. "I knew this product would be appealing, especially to young children," she says. The SQ-Easy® multi-purpose wristband is a new way for South Africa to stay protected whilst on the go by stopping viruses to spread by creating good hand hygiene habits. Made from kitchen grade, hypo-allergenic silicone that is waterproof and can be filled with sanitizer, sunscreen, insect repellent and so much more. It is available in an array of cool, funky colours, and straps easily onto the wrist, or can hang from a backpack. Just squeeze and dispense a small amount of the contents. “I inherited my business sense from my late father, Jose Teixeira, who in his time was an amazing role model to his family and friends. He worked exceptionally hard, despite his uneducated upbringing, and worked as a packer for his father's corner café, eventually becoming the supplier of the best Free State potatoes for Pick 'n Pay South Africa from his own farms in the

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feature 1980s. Not bad for a small-town man!" says Jolene. "My late mother, Fatima Teixeira, instilled a foundation of faith and prayer in all her children that today is an invaluable tool I use for all guidance in my life. I’m forever grateful for all the times she would take us five siblings to church every Sunday and teach us from a young age to pray.” Jolene realized that she could make the wristband available to everyone to purchase and enlisted the help of her two good friends, Shirley de Sousa, Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Clinton Dawson, Chief Financial Officer(CFO) to pursue her idea – and so SQ-Easy was established. "Living through these very uncertain times, we are hoping that our SQ-Easy wristbands will help parents by giving them peace of mind that their child will have easier access to regular sanitizing when wearing the band," she adds. "Anyone who knows Shirley in Welkom, or her home town Klerksdorp, knows that she is definitely a 'smooth operator'," says Jolene. "She knows how to get things done!" Shirley was brought up in a Lebanese household. "And as many will know, in Lebanon, which is a struggling country, you have to learn to hustle or you will be left behind," she says. "My late father, Hanna Chadraoui, was one of 12 children. He came to South Africa and 'hustle' was exactly what he did and became a very successful businessman. He made sure to teach myself and my two sisters the art of selling. I inherited his gift of the gab! He always used to say 'My daughter Shirley can sell a can of coke, with NO coke inside'.” Chief Finance Operator Clinton Dawson handles the finances and logistics is the 'tightest person that you will ever meet', says Jolene. "Everyone who knows Clinton, knows that he accounts for every cent, and that www.babysandbeyond.co.za

is what makes him a successful man in his own business. I lost my dad at a very young age and my mother, Carol Dawson, was left to raise and educate her two boys all on her own. My mother worked three jobs to put my brother and me through private schooling and university. I can proudly say that my brother and I both finished with degrees and were never short of anything due to the sacrifices my mother made," Jolene adds.

Cricketer Dean Elgar, ambassador for SQ-Easy

Once the SQ-Easy company had been formed and the product conceived from design to execution, the next logical step was to find an ambassador to assist with the marketing and to connect a recognized personality with SQ-Easy. "The talented cricket player, Dean Elgar, was the obvious choice. His ideal and humble personality is a perfect match for the SQ-Easy brand. He also indorses the benefits of team work and supports the slogan for SQ-Easy: 'Bringing South Africa together, one squeeze at a time'," Jolene explains.

Dean is also an ex-Welkomer and attended St Dominic’s Private Catholic School. His innate cricket talent was spotted at a young age by the well-known headmaster of the primary school, Louis Klopper, an accomplished and enthusiastic cricketer himself. "Dean has always been passionate about playing cricket and his dedication to the game and the never-ending support from his dad, Richard Elgar, helped him to reach his dream of becoming a South African Protea," says Jolene. In Dean's words "if you work hard, you go far; there is no measurement for your own potential and there is always room for improvement." Dean absolutely loves the all new SQ-Easy wristband and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a convenient solution for sun protection. From small acorns, great oak trees grow, from small towns, great ideas and great talents prosper. SQ-Easy – Bringing South Africa together one squeeze at a time.

Our motto

Bringing South Africa together one squeeze at a time. Strongly explains how we as a team feel about giving back to our community. Finding ways to help create good hygiene habits across South Africa. You can purchase this product online at www.sq-easy.co.za

More about Dean Elgar

• Born 11 June 1987 • South African cricketer • Left-handed opening batsman, slow left arm bowler • Captained the 2006 u/19 South African cricket world cup in Sri Lanka. • Plays for the Titans cricket side during first class season and has represented a few county cricket teams in England. • 23 March 2018, he became the second batsman to carry his bat right through the innings on three occasions in test cricket history.

health

n o s a e s u l F is around the cor ner

influenza virus which al on as se e th es nc rie pe ex Every year, South Africa can start as early it , er ev ow H t. us ug A to om June circulates during winter fr as early as possible and za en flu in t ns ai ag e at in cc nc. as April, so it is best to va min C, Vitamin D and Zi ita V th wi em st sy e un m to also build your im

espite an effective influenza vaccine that’s been around for years, the virus continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide.

Healthy ways to strengthen your immune system • • • • • •

don't smoke eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables exercise daily maintain a healthy weight drink alcohol in moderation get enough sleep

Diagnosis and symptoms

It is particularly difficult to distinguish illness due to influenza from that due to other respiratory viruses. Flu is usually an uncomplicated illness which is categorized by a sudden onset of constitutional and respiratory symptoms such as fever, myalgia, coughing, sore throat, rhinitis and headaches. Flu can subside within 3-7 days in the majority of people. However, coughing and malaise may persist for several weeks. In some patients, influenza may cause severe complications, which include viral pneumonia, secondary bacterial or viral infections (including pneumonia, sinusitis and infection of the middle ear), and exacerbations of underlying illnesses such as pulmonary and cardiac illness.

Prevention and treatment

The flu vaccine remains the primary means for preventing seasonal flu infection. A protective antibody response takes about two weeks to develop, hence vaccines should be administered sufficiently early to provide protection for the winter, although it is never too late to vaccinate. In conjunction with vaccination, patients should receive advice on general preventative precautions such as cough hygiene and avoiding contact with other people. Tip: Wash or sanitise your hands frequently  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Your superior combination for Improved Immune Support – essentially daily health supplements for the entire family

Cal-C Kids Calcium with added Vitamin C – Junior Powder with calcium and added vitamin C 170g - Promote good health and boost immune system - easy to take - orange flavour May assist In: • Strong bones • Healthy teeth and gums • Immune support

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Vitamin C and D - 60 Tablets Vitamin C 500mg with VitaminD3 500iu - Promote good health boost your immune system May assist in: • Immune function • Reducing the risk of heart disease • Natural mood booster • Memory and cognition

Zinc and Selenium - 120 Tablets family pack Zinc 25mg with Selenium 60ug - Promote good health and boost immune system. May assist in: • Immune function • Maintaining skin integrity and structure • Effective treatment for acne • Protecting immune cells • Heart disease

For further information or where to purchase contact us at: enquiries@evohealth.co.za l 011 656 3338 l www.evohealth.co.za Available from most leading wholesalers and pharmacies.

health

Sinus infection

is not COVID-19 A sudden runny nose or headache can easily cause panic if you assume you have COVID-19 – but it could also just be a sinus infection.

iven that flu season is around the corner, sinus infections are becoming more common and so is the question of whether you are dealing with COVID-19 or just a sinus infection.

What is a sinus infection?

According to the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), a sinus infection happens when fluid builds up in your sinuses and the air-filled pockets in your face, which allows germs to grow. According to the CDC, most sinus infections are caused by viruses, while bacteria can cause some sinus infections.

Below are a few risks that can raise your chance of getting a sinus infection – according to the CDC: • A previous cold • Seasonal allergies • Smoking and exposure to second hand smoke • Structural problems with sinuses, including growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses • A weak immune system • Taking any drugs that weaken the immune system

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What are the symptoms of a sinus infection? (Most common symptoms according to the CDC)

• runny nose • stuffy nose • facial pain or pressure • headaches • post-nasal drip • sore throat • coughing • bad breath • severe headaches or facial pain may be experienced, which get worse after initially improving • symptoms that last for more than 10 days without getting better • a fever lasting for more than three to four days.

MERMAID TIME TEACH

WATCHES

Two dazzling colours to choose from - iridescent purple and iridescent silver. Telling the time has just become Easy peasy!

Note: Once you are sure that you only have a sinus infection, visit your doctor for a prescription or your pharmacist for over-the- counter medication.

COVID-19 symptoms include (according to the CDC): • fatigue • headaches • sore throat • congestion or a runny nose • muscle or body pain • cough • fever or chills • nausea and vomiting • diarrhea • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Because COVID-19 and sinus infections do share symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose one from the other. The best advice is to be safe rather than sorry. Note: Call your doctor. Don’t go to doctor's waiting room. If you do have COVID-19, you can infect others. 

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Available on our website, get yours while stocks last! www.mimbeekids.co.za

home remedies How do I get

instant relief from thrush? Topical creams are the way to go if you want instant relief from the irritation of thrush. Most creams are available over-the-counter in your local pharmacy.

top tips

to get rid of a cold quickly

1. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated

2. Get as much rest as possible.

Ways to Naturally Reduce Anxiety

• Staying active by regular exercising is good for your physical and emotional health. • Don't drink too much alcohol as it is a natural sedative. • Stop smoking. • Limit your caffeine intake. • Get lots of sleep. • Meditation is a great way to reduce anxiety. • Eat healthily. • Practice deep breathing.

How to ease

muscle aches at home • resting the area of the body where you're experiencing aches and pains. • taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen • applying ice to the affected area to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

What home remedies

How do I get rid of

stomach cramps?

• Chamomile tea helps alleviate the discomfort associated with an upset stomach while also working as an anti-inflammatory agent. • Drink the left-over water after making a pot of rice. • Mint tea. • Warm lemon water. • Ginger root tea.

can I try first for itchy skin before consulting a doctor? Applying menthol to the affected area. Cool the itch making use of a cold compress Wet wrap therapy. Colloidal oatmeal. Moisturise regularly

Natural remedies to treat blisters on the feet, toes and heels, includes:

Aloe Vera leaves contain a gel-like substance that is well known for its healing properties. Vaseline is a favorite among dermatologists for the treatment of wounds.

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home remedies

What gets rid of

heat rash fast?

Treat smelly

underarms naturally

Bath or shower in cool water with non-drying soap, then let your skin air-dry instead of toweling off. Use calamine lotion or cool compresses to calm itchy, irritated skin. Avoid using creams and ointments that contain petroleum or mineral oil, which can block pores further.

tips to sleep better

• Drink warm milk and chamomile tea • Exercise often • Use melatonin supplement • Keeping cool. Women who are going through menopause and experiencing hot flashes should keep the room as cool as possible and wear cotton or breathable fabrics to bed. • Keep your room as dark as possible

dry scalp How to treat

• A scalp massage is possibly the most effective and easiest way to treat dry scalp • Apply coconut or tee tree oil to the scalp • Conditioning treatments

Applying baking soda on your underarms can keep the area dry and avoid too much sweating. Baking soda also has anti-bacterial properties that can remove the bacteria causing the foul smell. All you need to do is to mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

How to treat

cold sores naturally

It may have a sting in its tail, but a dab of toothpaste will dry out a cold sore. And if yours contains baking soda, even better.

What is the most effective natural anti-inflammatory? Anti-inflammatory foods include: • tomatoes • olive oil • green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards • nuts like almonds and walnuts • fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines • fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges

What relieves breast tenderness during pregnancy? • Wear a more supportive bra. • Create a 'no touch' zone.

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• Wear loose-fitting clothes. • Try a cold compress.

• Take warm showers. • Doctor-approved pain relief.

health

Cipla Huf Puf Kit

When a parent is told their child has asthma, the emotions and concern for their child can feel overwhelming. Often it is the first time they are exposed to the concept of the disease that is asthma.

t can be intimidating negotiating the issues around inhaled medicines, particularly if their child has just been newly diagnosed with asthma. Parents often need to feel assured that they are doing the right thing for their child when it comes to the daily medicine routines.

medicine collects in the chamber of the spacer, so the patient can breathe it in without needing to get the timing and speed exactly right.

Within the standard treatment guidelines for children with asthma, the addition and use of spacers to deliver inhaled medicines is recommended and adopted worldwide by pulmonologists, paediatricians, general practitioners, and other healthcare professionals.

The Cipla Huf Puf Kit is a ready-to-use kit which includes the Baby Mask and the ZerostatVT spacer in a child-friendly case. The unique storage case is designed with enough space to hold inhalers along with the Huf Puf Kit and helps to keep the device intact during transit and dust free when in storage.

What is a spacer?

Spacers are devices or tubes that create a small chamber for medicine to remain in suspension, that are usually made out of plastic. They help you get the best from your child’s asthma medicine if you use a metered dose inhaler (MDI). Using a spacer makes it easier to get the right amount of medicine straight to your child’s lungs, where it is needed.

How do spacers work?

The inhaler is fixed to one end of the spacer and mouthpiece on the other side. Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) deliver a dose of medicine in a fine spray (aerosol) form into the chamber when the inhaler is activated. The

A spacer slows the medicine down as it comes out of the inhaler, so more of it gets taken down into the child’s lungs.

The Huf Puf Kit makes it easy and convenient to deliver inhaled medicines to children up to four years of age using an inhaler, even in emergencies. With the help of the Huf Puf Kit, a child can inhale a complete dose of medicine, while breathing normally. Thus, it helps your child obtain the full benefit of the medicine. The shape of the Baby Mask provides a comfortable snug fit over the child's face. The exhalation vent provides an outlet for the exhaled air and makes breathing easier.

The transparency of the ZerostatVT spacer helps the caregiver to see the dose released in the spacer. Parents are reassured when using a spacer that it is developed specifically for children using advanced technological processes, thus helping to ensure excellent control of asthma and breathing issues. The Cipla Huf Puf Kit is available in South Africa and can be obtained at most pharmacies in South Africa. All pharmacies can order stock of this item should they not have it readily available. Please speak to your healthcare practitioner if you have any concerns about your child’s health and if you are unsure of how to administer asthma medication. For parents who have older children with asthma, Cipla is about to launch a wonderful new educational platform relating to asthma. The website www.bronkiboosters.com will be available soon! 

References 1. https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/inhalers-medicines-treatments/inhalers-and-spacers/spacers/, accessed 2 February 2020. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

health

Don’t miss

your medical check-ups because of COVID-19 By Shelee Bloch, practising community pharmacist 50

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

health COVID-19 has changed the healthcare landscape in many ways and this change may very well be a permanent shift to a new normal. Shelee Bloch, who has been a practising community pharmacist for over 25 years, shares some insight into what behavioural changes pharmacies have witnessed during the pandemic:

n all my 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry, I have never experienced anything like the trends we saw as lockdown hit. Pre-lockdown, pharmacies experienced an overwhelming surge of clients. Stores were inundated with panicked buyers stockpiling and desperately acquiring three months’ worth of prescription medication in fear of medical stock depletion. During lockdown, however, the panic subsided. People realised that medical shortages were not a concern and as children weren’t attending school, associated illnesses declined and antibiotics were seldom necessary. In the later stages of lockdown, particularly when we entered Level 1, pharmacists observed a dramatic increase in phone calls and emails from clients rather than physically visiting the pharmacy to place medical orders, either in fear of contracting the Coronavirus or enjoying the convenience of the telemedical services provided, such as pharmaceutical home deliveries. Front shop sales subsequently declined as clients were frequenting pharmacies far less and thus wouldn’t spend time perusing and purchasing in-store retail items. Various trends emerging from the pandemic have certainly changed the way people manage their health. To fortify their immune systems, zinc, vitamin C and D consumption has spiked along with Zithromax, a macrolide antibiotic believed to be a potential treatment for COVID-19. Interestingly, people are recently more reluctant to adhere to their regular health check-ups owing again to the fear of contracting the virus or relishing in the benefits that health practitioner teleconsults have to offer. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Unfortunately, without physical examinations, certain conditions can compound significantly. Clients need to realise that doctors’ rooms are one of the safest places to visit as they always have and continue to painstakingly follow all hygiene and sanitation protocols. Preventative appointments such as mammogram and prostate procedures should therefore not take a back seat due to COVID-19.

Digital technology making healthcare services exceptionally convenient

While certain ailments and preventative measures demand physical examinations, many do not, and there are significant grounds for using technology to manage one’s healthcare. A multitude of apps are now available, making healthcare services exceptionally convenient by bringing them directly to a location of your choice. These apps have monumental benefits for society: Adult children concerned about and living far away from their parents can manage their parents’ healthcare from a distance, ensuring their medical requirements are satisfied whenever necessary.

Working parents can also find solace in medical apps knowing that their children's health is taken care of while still being able to manage their careers. Healthcare apps have changed the medical realm as we once knew it. One such app is Lilaq Health, a mobile platform that connects the busy parent and professional to qualified healthcare specialists who make personalised house calls in your home environment. This empowers you to care for your loved ones remotely and on your schedule, without compromising time spent with your family or your career. This is, quite simply, convenience amplified! With benefits such as these, it’s no wonder communities are rapidly turning to medical technology. Time saving, convenient and safe, embracing online healthcare solutions really is a no-brainer in these precarious times that our society is currently confronted with. 

Further, old age homes can succinctly manage medical administrations by having pharmacies individually pack medication according to specific doses and time of intake, allowing healthcare attendees at old age facilities to conduct their jobs seamlessly. Another segment of the community able to benefit from such technologies are new moms. Chronically fatigued, emotionally frazzled and fearful of taking their infants out into a world confronted by a pandemic, they highly appreciate the convenience of an app that brings quality healthcare right to their doorstep.

Shelee Bloch

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Earthsap Mustard Seed Foam Bath, R75 | available online at www.faithful-to-nature.co.za

Mentat Syrup, 100ml, for a sharp & focused mind, R112.99 | available at Dis-Chem, Clicks & independents pharmacies.

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Earthsap no petrochemicals, Peppermint Air Freshener, 150ml, R53 | available online at www. faithful-to-nature.co.za, Wellness Warehouse, selected health shops and selected Spars. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

editor's choice health

Health

Health Betadine mouthwash & gargle, 50ml, R46.95 | available at Clicks & Dis-Chem.

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HIV in pregnancy

HIV in

pregnancy By Dr Kim Sonntag, specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist HIV is a manageable disease if treated timeously and many babies have been born healthy and HIV negative. Creating awareness and encouraging testing is the cornerstone of decreasing infection rates.

uman immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The HIV virus enters the bloodstream via body fluids, such as blood and semen. The HIV virus invades and kills CD4 cells, which form part of the body’s immune system. The incidence of HIV in South Africa is 19% (UNAIDS Data 2020), with 60% of all cases being in women of reproductive age. Women are disproportionately affected by HIV due to gender-based violence and poverty.

Preventing HIV transmission The risk of transmission of HIV from mother to child is 25-30%, in the absence of treatment. Transmission may occur during pregnancy, delivery or during breastfeeding. Vertical transmission (transmission of the virus from mother to child) commonly occurs during labour, when the amniotic sac breaks and body fluids between the mother and foetus are exchanged. Vertical transmission can be reduced by HIV testing, antiretroviral medication, delivery by caesarean section prior to onset of labour and formula feeding. The Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) programme in South Africa has four objectives to try and reduce the transmission of HIV: 1. Primary prevention of HIV. 2. Preventing unintended pregnancies in HIV positive women. 3. Preventing HIV transmission during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding. 4. Providing appropriate care to women with HIV.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

HIV in pregnancy

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, all women will be tested for HIV at their antenatal visits; this may also be repeated at 32 weeks of pregnancy. If HIV is diagnosed in pregnancy, antiretroviral medication (ARVs) will be started immediately. If a woman is HIV positive and not using ARVs, these will also be started immediately. Medication should be started as early as possible and be continued throughout life. This will drastically decrease the risk of transmission. By taking the medication correctly, the risk of transmission can decrease to less than 1%. Screening for other infections like TB and syphilis is also advised. ARVs are completely safe to use during pregnancy and will not cause harm to the foetus. Common side effects when starting treatment include nausea, diarrhoea, headaches and muscle aches. Antenatal visits should be scheduled accordingly like a normal pregnancy unless there are other complications.

Delivery

The decision to deliver the baby vaginally or via caesarean section depends on how well controlled the HIV is, individual practices in different obstetric centres and the woman’s preference. HIV positive women will have their viral load measured; this is to detect the amount of active virus in the blood stream. The lower the viral load and the higher the CD4 count, the less HIV is available to be transmitted to the baby. If the viral load is undetectable, the risk of transmission is extremely low. If the viral load is extremely high, this may be due to newly diagnosed HIV or treatment failure. A caesarean section is then advised to reduce the risk of passing HIV onto the baby. During a vaginal delivery there are several factors that can reduce the infection rate: water not been broken for many hours, no instrument deliveries, and no episiotomies. Discussion with a health practitioner on the safest method of delivery is recommended.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Breastfeeding

HIV will pass into breastmilk and the decision whether to breastfeed or not depends largely on available resources. If you have access to formula, clean water and can sterilize bottles, then breastfeeding is not recommended. If you do not have access to these things, it is recommended to exclusively breastfeed for six months and to continue to take ARV medication. Mixed feeding before six months of age can increase the risk of the baby contracting HIV. Depending on when ARVs were started, the baby will also need prophylactic ARV medication for a specific time. An HIV test will be done on the baby after birth and then again at six weeks. If any of these tests come back positive, the baby will need to start treatment immediately. Both mother and baby will need regular postnatal check-ups.

Contraception

Choosing the right contraception in HIV positive women is vital. Some methods of contraception are not as effective if on ARV medication, for example, the implant. Counselling on the various options available is recommended with someone knowledgeable in contraception and family planning. Being on the right contraception will prevent unintended pregnancies and promote good family spacing and general health and wellbeing. 

Dr Kim Sonntag is a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist working at Life Kingsbury Hospital IN Cape Town. She has a specialised interest in high-risk obstetrics and foetal medicine. T +27 (0)21 6852375 E info@drkimsonntag.co.za IG @drkimsonntaggynae W www.drkimsonntag.co.za

Celebrating years of Two Oceans Aquarium magic In November 2020, the Two Oceans Aquarium turns a whopping 25 years old. That’s two-and-a-half decades of the things that matter: family, friendship, and fish! Isn’t it hard to believe that the aquarium has been part of South Africans’ lives for a quarter of a century already? For us, the time has flown. The best part of our job has been watching you, your children and your grandchildren grow up in front of our eyes. Some of you came here as children – with your parents, or as part of a school group visit – and now you are bringing your own children to experience and explore the magic of Southern Africa’s underwater world. We are incredibly proud to be a part of these personal journeys. We’ve also been so privileged and honoured to be custodians for the ocean. On every visit we aim to educate and inspire so that the sea may be protected

and pristine long after we’re gone. From tiny schooling fish to large ragged-tooth sharks – and octopuses and penguins in between – every animal has been so important to us, and to our visitors. Above all, our goal is that every single person – baby or grandparent – who visits the aquarium, leaves with a little bit more love for our life-giving ocean. Since our opening on 13 November 1995, we have welcomed more than 10 million people to bear witness to the incredible marine wildlife found on our shores, and we look forward to another 25 incredible years of inspiring change for the future wellbeing of the ocean. Long may we journey together! We’d love to ‘sea’ you every single day of the year, whatever the weather.

mental health

Born and raised

in a pandemic

Since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak a pandemic in March 2020, the world has been in a state of crisis1. As panic spreads, women may delay going to hospital in fear of exposing themselves and their family, raising their chances of potential complications2. By Dr Anusha Lachman

tudies have also revealed that both mothers and their babies face many restrictions in the time of COVID-19, and the impact of the physical (and social) isolation on mental health is anticipated to be high3. At a virtual conference facilitated by Cipla, child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr Anusha Lachman – who is also a consultant at the adolescent inpatient unit at Tygerberg Hospital – said: “These restrictions include limited contact between baby and mother (even when breastfeeding), as well as less visitors and an increased prevalence of mask-covered faces, which may affect the emotional development of the baby." “We have seen an increase in maternal mental health issues. Unfortunately, the psychological wellbeing of mothers is being overlooked, as it is overshadowed by pressing physical healthcare risks,” said Dr Lachman. This is being reflected in recent reports, which reveal that would-be mothers – many of whom fear infection for both themselves and their infants – are feeling demoralised by social distancing and movement restrictions4. Fear of social

isolation, paired with restrictions on visits by partners and relatives due to virus preventive measures, is adding to the pressure they feel as new parents4. “These ill-fated circumstances are compounding the existing mental health pressures that new mothers already experience, the effects of which should not be underestimated,” said Paul Miller, CEO of Cipla South Africa. “Research has shown that during the perinatal period, one in seven women are affected by depression and anxiety, and in South Africa, 10 to 15% of women will be afflicted by post-partum depression in the first year after giving birth.”3,5

Particularly hard on children

Sadly, the impact of the pandemic extends beyond babies and mothers: lockdown regulations and social distancing rules implemented in countries around the world as a means to manage the pandemic have also been shown to be particularly hard on children6. Despite the general perception that children are less likely to contract COVID-19, substantial indirect adverse and long-term effects of the disease on mental and physical health have been predicted7.

Closures of schools across the globe have also led to many children feeling isolated from their peers as routines are disrupted8. Combined with limited or no opportunity for outdoor play and socialisation, these have negative impacts on children’s behaviour.7 “Parents and caretakers therefore need to look out for behavioural patterns and provide additional support for infants and children over this time,” advised Dr Lachman. “Effectively assessing infant’s or children’s competencies and being conscious of their emotional development can help deal with, or avoid, future psychiatric www.babysandbeyond.co.za

HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT disorders through the introduction of intervention or prevention methods.

BRA EY

HEA

EA EH L

Bibliography: 1. World Health Organization. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Situation Report – 51. World Health Organization 1–9 (2020) doi:10.6314/JIMT.202004_31(2).01. 2. Hossain, N., Samuel, M., et al. Perceptions, Generalized Anxiety and Fears of Pregnant women about Corona Virus infection in the heart of Pandemic. Research Square 1–16 (2020) doi:10.21203/ rs.3.rs-32235/v1. 3. Davenport, M. H., Meyer, S., et al. Moms Are Not OK: COVID-19 and Maternal Mental Health. Front. Glob. Women’s Heal. 1, 1–6 (2020). 4. Ghosh, A. & Sarkar, S. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic’s impact on maternal mental health and questionable healthcare services in rural India. International Journal of Health Planning and Management 1–3 (2020) doi:10.1002/hpm.3050. 5. SADAG. POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION. 1–4 (2019). http://www. sadag.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=142:pos tpartum-depression&catid=61&Itemid=143 6. Appleton, J. V. & Sidebotham, P. Safeguarding Children and Young People During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Child Abus. Rev. 29, 303–309 (2020). 7. Kumar, A., Nayar, K. R. et al. Debate: COVID-19 and children in India. Child Adolesc. Ment. Health 25, 165–166 (2020). 8. Hutt, R. Here’s what countries are doing to slow the coronavirus outbreak. World Economic Forum 1–12 https://www.weforum. org/agenda/2020/02/coronavirus-spread-virus-disease-countriesepidemic/ (2020).

H LT

“The impact of COVID-19 is not uniform across families and the contrast is often stark. With no real knowledge around the long-term effects on both physical and mental wellness in mothers and children, the healthcare system, NGOs and government have a large role to play in mitigating the ill-psychosocial effect of COVID-19,” she concludes. 

Taking Omega-3 supplements that are high in DHA during pregnancy and breastfeeding has an amazing range of potential benefits, such as: Lower risk of allergies, eczema & asthma Better hand-eye co-ordination Problem solving abilities Alvega-3 is a pure Omega-3 supplement, high in DHA extracted from non-GMO algal oil. Suitable for vegans/vegetarians.

Dr Anusha Lachman www.babysandbeyond.co.za

NATURE IN FULL. HEALTH IN FORCE. Available at selected Dis-Chem stores, Wellness Warehouse, pharmacies and health shops, online at takealot.com, faithful-to-nature.co.za, floraforce.co.za.

mental health

Romance and schizophrenia:

An odd couple

Dating in an era of social media can be daunting. Dating for people living with schizophrenia is doubly daunting. This is why many people living with schizophrenia avoid relationships of any kind1.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

mental health

he symptoms of schizophrenia vary from person to person, which is why it’s important to have an open, honest conversation about what someone living with schizophrenia faces1. Some of the symptoms include2: • Delusional behaviour: False ideas that are often far from reality. • Hallucinations: Visual or auditory hallucinations that are extremely real to the person experiencing them. • Disorganised thinking and speech: Effective communication is often impaired as a person living with schizophrenia may be unable to have coherent thoughts, let alone a conversation. • Lack of emotions and expression: Commonly known as ‘flat-affect’, a person living with schizophrenia may be unable to express their true feelings through speech or actions. This may result in emotional distance between couples.

These symptoms impact a person’s ability to maintain meaningful relationships, especially romantic relationships. However, with medical progress in treating and managing the symptoms of schizophrenia, it has become possible to date and maintain long-term, meaningful relationships. Dating with schizophrenia is possible, especially with the right treatment such as long-acting monthly injectables to manage your symptoms. After all, a partner’s support can be one more way to live better with schizophrenia. To learn more about schizophrenia, visit schizophrenia24x7.co.za for helpful resources and tips on living with schizophrenia, or join the Our Mental Health Facebook group for a like-minded community of people sharing their experience of living, dating and coping with schizophrenia. 

Here are some tips to make it easier for people living with schizophrenia, or interested in dating someone with schizophrenia. • Keep expectations in check – Even if a person’s schizophrenia is well-managed and they feel healthy, dating may result in social anxiety. From the beginning, it’s important to make your expectations known to your partner and possibly engage in therapy to better discuss these expectations. • Take it slow – Stress is one of the triggers of schizophrenia and makes it difficult to manage the symptoms. Taking it slow is smart when easing into a relationship. Start with low-key activities such as coffee dates, picnics or going for a walk in nature. These activities reduce expectations and give you time to ease into a relationship. • Go easy on sexual activities – Many schizophrenia treatment options impact the libido. If your medication results in the inability to get aroused or experience an orgasm, speak to your doctor about other treatment options. • Teamwork makes the dream work – For many people living with schizophrenia, dating can be just a dream. But with the right person and open, honest communication, it’s possible. Go to therapy together. It will help your partner learn about your symptoms from the person that knows you best, your doctor. It also empowers your partner with the knowledge to help should a psychotic episode occur.

References: 1. https://www.webmd.com/schizophrenia/dating-schizophrenia#1 2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizophrenia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354443

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

money matters

Kids and cash

- how to teach children essential money lessons

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

money matters Personal finance website JustMoney quizzed some kids about what money means to them. They found that many children recognise the importance of money, and the value of saving as a means to fulfil their dreams. What is money?

to buy nice things. “Saving is important so you can do something big that you always wanted to do,” says Mkhanyisi, an 11-year-old.

As five-year-old Imaad and four-year old Mikail said, we need money to buy food, drinks, and of course ice cream, suckers, pillows and toys. Others such as 10-yearold Anru and nine-year-old Racheal understand that money is used to buy a house, pay your bills and take care of your children.

“If you don’t save, you’ll never have enough money to get the things that you want,” says Anru.

Almost all of the children understood that we need money to buy the things we want or need.

Why is money important?

Data, transport, fruit, school fees, water and snacks were some of the items that the kids mentioned. “You use money to get something that you need or you’ll probably need in the future, like a house,” says Ruvarashe, a nine-year-old. She says money is also used to buy a car. “Money is important because you use it to pay your school fees, buy food, water and other important stuff,” says Mihle, a nine-year-old.

What is saving?

According to 12-year-old Shasmeen, saving means putting money aside in a deposit account or investment fund. To seven-year-old Jordan, it means putting it in a piggy bank.

According to Sarah Nicholson, Commercial Manager at JustMoney, talking to your kids about money is vital. It gives you the opportunity to instil good money habits and a healthy savings culture in your children from a young age. “This could mean the difference between them growing up to be financially responsible, secure individuals, or individuals who are unable to manage their cost of living,” says Nicholson. Cowyk Fox, Managing Executive of everyday banking at ABSA, says that engendering an appreciation for the power of savings (including delayed gratification) and teaching the next generation about the power of compounding at an early age are important steps in the road to financial independence.

Why is it important to save?

“Financial wellness is not an event but a journey. Helping children understand money, how to manage it and the importance of savings are crucial life lessons,” he says.

According to Kauthar, a nine-year-old, if you save you might have a lot of money

Yashen Singh, CEO of premium core banking at FNB, agrees. “By building good money management behaviours from an early age, you will enable your children to make more informed financial decisions when they reach adulthood,

Racheal understands that saving will keep her from borrowing. “I can just take out my own money and buy what I want,” she says.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

The earlier the better to instil a savings culture

money matters

Hints and tips for parents Teaching your children about money can seem intimidating, but you may already be well on your way without even knowing it. 1. Start young – the traditional approach is to buy your toddler a moneybox, so they can see how their money can be saved and how it can grow over time. 2. Use everyday events – your shopping trips, your bill payments, games and books to bring financial concepts to life in a fun and practical way. 3. Set the example – show your children what it means to be financially responsible by paying your bills on time, setting aside emergency funds, and saving up for special treats. 4. Teach your children about budgeting – help them set goals for the things that they want and tick off financial milestones on the way. If you give your children spending money, or compensate them for chores, this could be deposited into their account and could be saved towards their goals. 5. Let them save for a major purchase – this will help them to become accustomed to delayed gratification, also helping them understand the difference between needs and wants.

making them financially resilient and independent.” Fox says parents need to impart lifelong principles of money management to prepare them for independence. This includes savings, responsible spending, learning how to make pocket money last longer, and how to operate an account. “Teaching children the difference between wants and needs, early on, is a great lesson that will stand them in good stead,” says Nicholson. “Your children will be bombarded with temptations to spend as they grow up. Putting in the groundwork now, and instilling some basic financial learning, will help them to make sensible decisions later and avoid the stress of debt.”  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

THE BONITAS

Maternity Programme

The Bonitas Maternity Programme has been developed to provide pregnant mothers with multiple levels of support during their pregnancy. Pregnant mothers can look forward to the following features:

24/7 MATERNITY HEALTH ADVICE LINE

DEDICATED CLINICAL CARE ADVISORS

ONLINE ANTENATAL CLASSES

WEEKLY STAGE APPROPRIATE SMSs

WEB CONTENT

PREGNANCY EDUCATION EMAILS

Should you have any health-related queries during your pregnancy, you can call the 24/7 Maternity Health Advice line on 087 056 9888 or on 087 056 9890.

During your pregnancy, you’ll receive a weekly SMS, appropriate to the specific stage of your pregnancy.

A maternity nurse/midwife will call you at certain key stages throughout your pregnancy with support and advice.

On the Bonitas website, you’ll be able to find a series of articles regarding common health issues during pregnancy.

BONITAS BABY BAG

We give all pregnant members a beautiful baby bag to congratulate you on the arrival of your bundle of joy. The baby bag is packed with goodies for you and your new-born.

DIGITAL WEBINARS AND EVENTS

Twice a month there will be digital webinars and region specific online events that will cover various aspects of maternity and baby care.

BABYLINE – SUPPORT FOR PARENTS WITH TODDLERS

Bonitas offers its members a 24-hour paediatric health advice line, called Babyline. This service is a dedicated line for parents with babies or toddlers under the age of three and offers professional health advice based on standardised paediatric protocols.

SMS SWITCH TO 33035 / bonitas.co.za SMSs CHARGED AT R1.50. FREE SMSs DO NOT APPLY. Ts & Cs APPLY.

From the moment you register with the Bonitas Maternity Programme, you’ll have access to online antenatal classes covering various pregnancy related topics.

You’ll also receive emails on a weekly basis, for the duration of your pregnancy, to help you prepare for the birth.

nutrition

Reasons post-exercise

nutrition is important

Exercise is rewarding in many ways, but when you’re focused on your goals, it can be easy to forget about recovery. According to Angela Leach, the Head Dietitian for FUTURELIFE®, inadequate muscle recovery could be what is standing between you and your fitness goals.

“M

uscle recovery is not only about having rest periods between your workouts, but it also involves getting the right nutrition,” Angela says. She adds that the cornerstone of postworkout and recovery nutrition is the 3 R’s – repair, refuel and rehydrate. “They are essential for maximising the training effect, and not doing this can lead to muscle damage and tenderness. A good intake of macronutrients, micronutrients and fluids, throughout the day, are essential to achieving long-term results,” she adds. Angela shares three reasons post-exercise nutrition is important:

1 Encourages muscle gain

Your muscles store glycogen, which is a form of energy storage. When you’re exercising, these stores are broken down and need to be replenished through the consumption of carbohydrates postexercise. Muscles also develop tiny tears during strenuous exercise leading to pain and inflammation. Protein is essential for the repair of these micro-tears which then leads to muscle strength and growth.

The combination of carbohydrates and protein consumption maximise the rate of muscle repair and glycogen synthesis, keeping your blood glucose levels balanced and facilitating muscle repair and reconditioning. The results include fewer energy dips throughout the day, replenished stores needed for your next workout and reduced muscle damage.

you can weigh yourself before and after exercise. If there is a difference, it may be due to hydration, but you can drink 100-150ml for every 100g lost to balance things out.

strength and 3 Increases intensity

Running out of breath during exercise might be the reason you are reaching for your water bottle, but hydration before, during, and after training has a positive impact on your performance. Exercising while dehydrated can lead to stiffness in your muscles and may affect your blood pressure. Recent evidence suggests that dehydration may increase the risk of oxidative stress which leads to cell and tissue damage.

Muscle damage and fatigue are a result of a lack of recovery. A study found that fatigue potentially contributes to prolonged recovery and predisposed participants to injury. The study also determined that performance improvements occur during recovery from training sessions. Although exercise is a process of tearing, repairing and reconditioning, a lack of recovery only hinders the potential of improving your performance and intensity. Recovery is key to reducing muscle fatigue and provides you with the energy you need for regular exercise.

Although this process occurs naturally in the body, dehydration can make it worse, so you need to hydrate with water in moderation and electrolytes when needed. Ensure that you consume enough water and electrolytes but be careful not to overdo it as over hydration has other implications that can negatively affect your performance. If you’re unsure whether you’re getting enough hydration,

“Don’t avoid the muscle recovery process. Smart nutrition and proper hydration can help your body’s recovery process and ensure you have enough energy to sustain you through exercise. Also pay careful attention to rest periods between your fitness sessions, this is vital and can contribute to your overall performance and results,” Angela concludes. 

2 Prevents dehydration

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parenting multiples

Double doesn’t have to break the piggy bank

Whether you’re expecting multiples or not, preparing for a newborn is an exciting and unexpected time in your life. If you’re adding twins to the mix the overwhelming realities of cost may start to trigger your worry, especially in these economically precarious times. By Sister Yolanda Mpilo, Pampers Parenting Institute Expert

imes may be tough, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get the most out of growing your two, three or even four bundles of joy. All it takes is a little hustle and a lot of love and you can stretch your money further than you think. Pampers Parenting Institute Expert, Sister Yolanda Mpilo, provides a few tips on how parents of multiples can stretch their budget and help alleviate the stress that comes with all the costs that accompany adding new babies to your family.

Make your own food

While breastfeeding lasts for a good while, it doesn’t take long before solids enter the equation. The problem is, baby food off the shelf is certainly not what you would call value for money. When you add more than one baby to the mix, costs can skyrocket and leave you strapped for cash. “The idea of making your own baby food should not be daunting. It may seem like a massive effort but all it requires is steaming veggies on a stove,

adding some water and then sticking it in a blender. That’s it,” says Sister Yolanda. You can find plastic baby food containers that you can fill and put in the freezer, giving you a week’s worth of food and a lot more money left in your pocket. “This is often much healthier for your children and gives you the ability to vary their diet by providing a wider range of flavours,” adds Sister Yolanda. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

parenting multiples Buy pre-owned where it makes sense

New clothes are another item of budgetary contention for parents. If you walk through the aisle of any major baby store, you get the feeling that the cost of raising children is much higher than you thought. Yet, much like cars, buying new is not always the way to go. “New parents won’t understand, but you will be surprised at how fast your children grow out of their clothes. Unless you have a special occasion, keep your babies’ clothes generic because they won’t be worn for long!” says Sister Yolanda. It is also not necessary to buy double of everything or have things look identical. You can borrow some items from

family members and friends. Things such as a changing table, baby gym and baby swing can be shared between the babies. “Now that you are furnishing a room for more than one infant, there are plenty of pre-owned items that are perfectly fine. Look at pre-owned changing tables, cribs, car seats, prams and high chairs for a start. Most people are selling these items after one use, but be sure to test their integrity before handing over the cash,” says Sister Yolanda.

Shop smart

On that note, some things simply cannot be bought pre-used. Nappies are a prime example of this. Luckily there are products out there that cater for this.

“Retailers sometimes have twin-pack promotions, where parents of twins can buy nappies in sets of two and even receive a discount if you look at cost per nappy,” advises Sister Yolanda. “There are many examples of these kinds of packages so parents of twins should look out for any and all deals that help them buy more and save more.”

Pregnancy programmes

Some services that parents subscribe to also offer pregnancy benefits. Check with you medical aid providers and retailers to see if they have pregnancy programmes/benefits that you can take advantage of. Some offer expectant parents hospital bags (filled with supplies for mom and baby’s stay at the hospital), while others have nappy rewards programmes. Dischem is a great example of a rewards programme that does not cost an extra cent. “Having a baby is a life-changing experience, let alone having two. Parents should not be shy to ask for help from loved ones and make some time for themselves whenever they can. Pre-planning, including making a budget, is key to ensuring that parents don’t find themselves financially, physically and emotionally overwhelmed with two babies at once”, concludes Sister Yolanda. 

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pets

Dogs can be dangerous, even the family pet

- tips for preventing dog bites and rabies Dogs are often referred to as ‘man’s best friend’, however, they can be extremely dangerous both due to risk of bite injuries and the fact that they are major carriers of the deadly rabies virus. It is important to teach children about safety around dogs.

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pets

“C

hildren under the age of 15 are unfortunately particularly at risk of being bitten by dogs. Often children may be too trusting of unfamiliar dogs or may not understand dogs’ behaviour or how to interact safely with them, which can lead to sudden serious injury,” says Rene Grobler, Netcare’s National Quality and Systems Manager for trauma and emergency. Netcare’s trauma injury prevention (NTIP) programme is calling on parents to inform themselves and their children about dog safety, as children may well come into contact with strange dogs in their daily life. The NTIP programme aims to reduce the risks of healthy people experiencing traumatic injuries through educational initiatives and sharing practical advice to promote safer behaviours. “It is important to remember that dogs are the main carriers of the rabies virus, which is of particular concern in some parts of our country. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), in the last 20 years, more than 40% of human rabies cases in South Africa have been recorded in KwaZulu-Natal, with 24% in the Eastern Cape and 21% in Limpopo province,” says Grobler. “Educating children on behaviours that can help reduce the chances of them

being bitten is a vital step in preventing injury due to dog attacks and the spread of the rabies virus.”

Teach children the following to help prevent them being bitten by a dog:

• Never wake a sleeping dog, even a family pet. • Never interfere with a dog while it is eating or feeding its puppies. • Do not hurt, pester or tease dogs. • If an unfamiliar dog runs towards you, it is best to stand still and remain quiet and still, with your hands at your sides and do not make eye contact. Usually, the dog will soon lose interest.

If a dog does attack:

• Try to keep still and do not pull away from the dog. • If you fall, roll into a ball, protecting your face and head, tucking your arms and legs in. While prevention is always better than cure, unfortunately dog attacks do still occur. Rabies is a concern for any animal bite that does not have a confirmed record of up-to-date rabies immunisation, according to Dr Dudu Ndlovu of North Coast Emergency Group, operating the emergency departments at Netcare Alberlito Hospital in Ballito and Netcare The Bay Hospital in Richards Bay. “Rabies is rare, but it is a deadly disease and therefore all animal bites are taken

In the case of a person being bitten by a dog, it is most helpful for the treating doctor to know whether there is proof that the dog’s rabies vaccination is up to date.

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seriously and scrutinized to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is needed. In the case of a person being bitten by a dog, it is most helpful for the treating doctor to know whether there is proof that the dog’s rabies vaccination is up to date,” Dr Ndlovu says.

What to do if your child is attacked or bitten by a dog

1. Get out of danger! Move the child somewhere where the dog cannot attack either of you or lock the dog away. 2. Assess the child. Check to see if they are alert, breathing well and not bleeding excessively. 3. If the wound is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the site of the bite. Keep the child warm and comfortable. 4. Contact an emergency medical services provider, such as Netcare 911 on 082 911, and describe the child’s injuries in as much detail as possible or take the child to an emergency department. In cases where the child has been bitten and has massive bleeding and extensive wounds, an emergency medical services provider should be contacted immediately.

First aid for dog bites

If paramedic assistance is required, you can do the following while waiting for the emergency services to arrive: 1. Start cleaning the child’s wound by rinsing it thoroughly with clean water. 2. If the child is in pain, consider administering over-the-counter pain medication in an appropriate dose for the child’s age. 3. Gather information that can assist the treating doctor with the correct management when you arrive at hospital, for example: ▫ the dog owner’s name and contact details, ▫ the dog’s vaccination status with documented proof, and ▫ details about how the incident unfolded.

pets “This information is clinically relevant because if there is proof that the dog’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date, the treating doctor can avoid administering multiple anti-rabies injections. The treating doctor at the emergency department will assess and clean the wound or wounds, ensure adequate pain control, and decide on the correct management based on the patient’s condition,” Dr Ndlovu says. The partners of the North Coast Emergency Group, now running the emergency departments at Netcare Alberlito and Netcare the Bay hospitals, have almost two decades of emergency medicine experience between them, and all doctors at the practice have additional emergency training and are hand-picked for their experience and bedside manner.

Does a minor dog bite really require medical attention?

“If a child or any person is bitten by a dog, even if the wound is not bleeding badly, it is important to seek emergency medical care for an assessment of the wound, tetanus immunisation and a rabies risk assessment,” Grobler adds. According to David Stanton, Head of Clinical and Education at Netcare 911, if you are ever unsure of the level of medical care your child needs, the Netcare 911 national emergency operation centre is ready to provide expert assistance in determining what steps are necessary. “Netcare 911’s national emergency operation centre has trained emergency medical personnel available to support callers in a medical emergency by explaining to them how to assist the patient until paramedics arrive on scene,” Stanton says. “We are now also able to include a visual element to telehealth consultations via secure video link, to assist with a more detailed immediate assessment of the patient remotely. In an emergency situation, this can be most significant for clinical decision making and help in the co-

ordination of highly specialised resources, such as deploying helicopter emergency medical services to airlift a patient to hospital.” “Remember it is imperative that for any potential risk of rabies, the first dose of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis must be administered as soon as possible after the bite occurred as time is of the essence when it comes to preventing the virus from attacking the nervous system,” Grobler says. In association with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control [GARC], Netcare’s TIP programme has developed a fun and

informative booklet, which is supported by the World Health Organization, dealing with safety around animals. “The booklet places particular emphasis on teaching children about responsible pet ownership, understanding dogs’ body language, and the behaviours people should avoid in their interactions with dogs that could provoke aggression, Grobler says. The booklet, ‘Want a friend? Be a friend’, is available for free as a service to the public. You can download it at www.netcare911.co.za/Helping-Hand, under the heading ‘Animal safety’.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Keep them e

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Children love the bear shaped jelly babies.

safety

Child’s play?

Walking rings can be dangerous By Rene Grobler, Netcare’s National Quality and Systems Manager for trauma and emergency 74

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safety Walking rings – marketed as mobility aids for babies learning to walk – may potentially pose serious injury risks for infants, statistics compiled by Netcare emergency departments nationally suggests.

“W

hile they may seem a harmless aid, accidents with walking rings have caused some serious injuries in babies over the years,” says Rene Grobler, Netcare’s National Quality and Systems Manager for trauma and emergency. Grobler explains that 47 babies, at an average age of eight months, were treated for injuries ranging in severity from minor to critical at Netcare emergency departments since 2012, following accidents with walking rings. “Of these, 4% had been critically injured, and 72% had serious to moderate injuries, with the remaining 24% of babies sustaining minor to moderate injuries. This illustrates that the walking ring is by no means harmless.” In an effort to reduce preventable accidents, Netcare’s national trauma injury prevention (TIP) programme is alerting parents to be aware of the potentiallylife-threatening accidents walking rings can cause. The TIP programme aims to reduce the risks of healthy people experiencing traumatic injuries through educational initiatives and sharing of practical advice to promote safer behaviours. “A walking ring makes it possible for a baby to propel themselves incredibly quickly – at a rate of up to a metre per second. In the blink of an eye, your child could be sent careening downstairs or head-first into a wall. The wheels on walking rings are usually very basic and may hook or get stuck on carpets or furniture, or break easily, adding further potential for accidents.

movement of a walking ring makes it virtually impossible to prevent injuries that can happen unbelievably quickly,” she says. “Most of the injuries recorded were to the babies’ head or face, and these injuries can be especially serious at such a young age. Childhood head injuries can be very serious with potentially lasting consequences, and medical attention should always be sought immediately.” According to Grobler, babies in walking rings may also be injured by pulling on electrical cables or tablecloths, potentially upsetting a kettle or electrical appliance onto themselves, causing burns. “Another risk when it comes to ‘spacesaving’ folding walking rings is that the mechanism may fail while in use, causing it to collapse and potentially resulting in injury to the baby. “Previously, it was believed that using a walking ring may help babies learn to walk sooner, however, it is now understood that if used excessively, this may potentially delay walking. It has

also been suggested that a walking ring may not be ideal, as stumbling, falling and getting back up are part of normal development. Babies also learn a lot simply from exploring their environment with their hands before they are able to walk,” she says. Mande Toubkin, General Manager: Emergency, Trauma, Transplant and Corporate Social Investment at Netcare, adds that prevention of traumatic injuries in children aims to avert unnecessary pain, as well as health, educational and psychosocial consequences that may arise from such accidents. “Awareness is a powerful tool for helping to protect children from harm. If even one child can be spared injury because their parents and caregivers were made aware of the dangers associated with walking rings, this could make a big difference in that child’s future,” Toubkin says. 

“Even if a baby is being closely supervised, the fast and uncontrolled www.babysandbeyond.co.za

sun care

All skin tones

are susceptible to

sun damage

By Alexa Wilding, Senior Brand Manager for Everysun

Let’s clarify… no matter your skin tone, you need sun protection! There is the myth that darker skin tones don’t need protection from the sun, but although sun damage may not be as noticeable on darker skin tones as it is on fairer skin, the UV rays of the sun can still cause damage, as well as skin cancer.

“I

t is a misconception that the darker your skin the safer you are from sun damage and skin cancer,” offers Alexa Wilding, Senior Brand Manager for Everysun. “Unprotected skin will be affected by the sun, no matter the skin tone. Although, red, sunburnt skin is more visible on fairer skin, all skin types need to be protected when out in the sun.” When the skin absorbs the UV rays an increase in activity and number of melanocytes occurs and causes a brown pigment called melanin. Melanin helps to block out the damaging UV rays, but only up to a point. Due to this, darker skin tones are less likely to get sunburnt, and although sunburns can increase the

chance of skin cancer, exposure to the sun’s UV rays can also increase the risk of cancer without causing sunburn. A 2016 study showed that although skin cancer was more prevalent in people with fairer skin tones, it didn’t discount those with darker skin tones. In fact, the study proved that fatalities from this type of cancer was higher in darker skin toned people, due to them only being diagnosed much later in their illnesses. It is important to check regularly for any skin abnormalities and consult a dermatologist should anything unusual be detected. “Being safe in the sun, especially over the summer months, should be a priority.

Using and applying your sunscreen in the morning before leaving the house, and topping up during the day, especially if taking part in activities such as swimming and exercising, should be part of your daily routine,” explains Wilding. “A high SPF should be used to give you the best protection, no matter your skin tone, and those with sensitive skin should look for a product that offers suitable protection for them.”

The Fitzpatrick scale

A great way to judge the sun damage that can be caused to your type of skin tone is to use the Fitzpatrick scale, developed by a dermatologist in 1975 to determine how a person’s skin will react to sun exposure: www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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The Fitzpatrick scale Type 1

Ivory skin that always freckles and burns, does not tan.

Type 2

Fair to pale skin that burns and peels often, and tans minimally.

Type 3

Fair to beige skin that occasionally burns, sometimes tans.

Type 4

Light brown or olive skin that rarely burns, tans easily.

Type 5

Brown skin that rarely burns, tans easily and darkly.

Type 6

Dark brown or black skin that rarely burns, always tans.

Types one to three have the greatest sunburn risk, while types four to six have a lower risk but can still occasionally burn. However, all types need to protect their skin with sun protection during the day, throughout the year.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Tips

travel with baby

to help make a travelling baby

a happy baby If you think road trips can be long and uncomfortable for you, just imagine what it will be like for your newborn or infant.

hey say travelling with a baby is like being the roadie for a musician, it’s all about carrying things and the attention is always on them. If you are prepared, there is nothing to worry about, but there are a few tricks you can use to help make it easier.

1 Clothes for all occasions

As the 'rock star' in transit, your baby is going to put on quite a show and may require a few wardrobe changes. Depending on where you’re going and for how long, it always pays to have clothes that will cater for all occasions. There are very few road trips that your baby doesn’t mess themselves just a little bit. Also, babies are sensitive to changes in temperature. Even if it’s a hot summer day, an afternoon thundershower can turn the air from hot to icy in a matter of minutes.

2 Make sleepy time familiar

As you may be on the road for a long time, baby may start to feel uncomfortable as they are out of their comfort zone. Make sure to pack their favourite comfort items such as toys, blankets or pillows to make them feel comfortable. If these items are associated with bedtime, then it may even help soothe them to sleep quicker which can be a real godsend for mommy or daddy.

Frequent pit stops

Babies are prone to getting uncomfortable and agitated if they are stuck in one place sitting for an extended period of time. If you are going on a road trip, then you must plan ahead and ensure there are plenty of safe places to stop and walk around a bit – every bit if fresh air helps too. This will help when you

suddenly discover that a nappy change is needed.

4 The right nappy for the job

Speaking of nappies, a nappy isn’t just a nappy. It is important that your baby is wearing one that not only maximises comfort but is also easy for you to change, whether in the car seat or in the confines of an airplane bathroom.

Consider using pull up nappy pants. If your baby is already walking, you could try a standing change, which is super easy with nappy pants. Pampers has a whole range of nappy pants that make it easy to just tear the sides and pull the nappy away while your baby is standing. No changing table required. Then after you have cleaned any mess you can have them step into a new pair of nappy pants.  www.babysandbeyond.co.za

wellbeing

Connecting through creativity

- the importance of creativity in children There have been multiple studies conducted to show that creativity and wellbeing are positively linked. Psychologist Bernice Castle agrees, saying that art and creativity help the development of children in various ways. By Bernice Castle, Psychologist

“A

rt can be a powerful tool among children and adults alike. If children engage in hands-on art activities, they learn much better in all disciplines.

through visual cognitive responses. Art has been proven to stimulate imagination, improve observation skills, boost self-esteem, provide a sense of accomplishment and reduce stress.

“Art helps children apply their gross and fine motor skills to something meaningful and tap into their problem-solving skills

“Finally, art creates opportunities for them to communicate how they see and experience the world and allows them to

give expression to their feelings about the situations they encounter in their daily lives,” she says.

Getting creative together

Here are some ways you can tap into your kids’ creative outlets and keep them engaged in meaningful ways: Set up an art station - Dedicate a small section of your home to art projects. BIC has a wide range of high-quality stationery perfect for art projects with the kids. They’re made to last, and widely available at your favourite grocery or stationery store. Set daily challenges - Give your kids a challenge for the day. This will help them meet daily goals and provide a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day. Keep everything - Don’t throw anything away. Display the really good art pieces and keep the rest in storage. Not only are these great keepsakes, but they show kids their work is special and deserves attention. Find online resources - There are thousands of resources online, from blogs to YouTube tutorials and more, like www.bickids.com/en. Make use of these resources to add a creative spin to things. 

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, y a l p u d o e y r e e l v i o c Wh u o y s a h mom

Being a child can be serious business and cuts, grazes and burns are all a part of the journey. L-Mesitran is an all-natural medical grade honey that promotes the healing of wounds and allows kids to quickly get back to the important business of being kids. +27 (0) 11 425 9200 l info@safarmex.co.za l www.safarmex.co.za Available at leading pharmacies.

wellbeing

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wellbeing

Little kids, big feelings

– helping young children manage anger By Dr Greg Pienaar, Educational Psychologist The past few months have had a tremendous impact on the mental and emotional wellbeing of most people, and young children have not escaped the impact of COVID-19 and the lockdowns in this regard. Parents may have seen a change in their children, including increased instances of anger outbursts, sometimes of the explosive kind.

“T

here has definitely been an increase worldwide and in South Africa of children struggling to manage anger and anxiety – outbursts that are quite distinct from run of the mill so-called tantrums, which some children exhibit under normal circumstances,” says Educational Psychologist, Dr Greg Pienaar, Principal at The Bridge Assisted Learning School, a brand of ADvTECH, Africa’s leading private education provider. The Bridge, which opened its doors in January 2018, has filled a niche demand in education, catering to students of average to above average ability who face certain learning barriers and social or emotional challenges. Pienaar says that parents whose children exhibited out-of-character anger outbursts, with an increase in frequency or intensity, may have been left baffled by these incidents. “The first thing to note is that, given the unusual circumstances of this year, this behaviour is relatively normal. However, having said that, parents definitely need to address the situation to ensure it is resolved, and seek help should they struggle to do so,” he says. A September report by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), noted that COVID-19 affected children directly and indirectly beyond getting sick or

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the threat of them or their loved ones falling ill. “Many children’s social, emotional, and mental well-being have been impacted by the pandemic. Trauma faced at this developmental stage may have long-term consequences across their lifespan,” the report said.

Listed as contributing factors to this impact were: 1. Changed routines 2. Breaks in continuity of learning 3. Breaks in continuity of healthcare 4. Significant life events that were missed 5. Loss of safety and security

“All the above factors, and many others, mean that children have had to deal with a major and historical life event at a very young age, when they are still learning to process feelings and emotions. Unusual behaviour may have arisen as a result,” Pienaar says. “This includes anger outbursts, simply because children often don’t know, or don’t have the tools, to express their feelings effectively when they are young. Anger is their way of communication; their way of telling you there is a problem.” Essentially, the misbehaviour is the language the child has available to express themselves.

wellbeing

So, parents and teachers need to respond appropriately to meltdowns and not immediately react with harsh punishment, arising from their own anger. It is important to model calm and considered behaviour at this point, Pienaar says. “The most important first step is to understand that there is a reason for the meltdown, and then to determine what that reason is. This involves spending time with the child, and communicating as effectively as possible,” he says. “Remember we as adults have the ability to understand what is going on, even in our uncertainty. But our children have been faced with a tremendous amount of unexpected and immediate changes, ranging from wearing masks, having to social distance, giving no hugs or not seeing important people in their lives. Children had to learn to grow up and face fear of death, uncertainty and the fallout from their parents’ fears and anxieties before they are mature enough to handle these big changes and big feelings. So it is not reasonable to expect all children to just absorb these changes and cope forthwith.”

Pienaar says to bring the situation back to normal, parents should ensure they:

• Get all routines back to normal as soon as possible - Try to get life at home back to a predictable routine, explain why it is necessary and why everyone is going to stick to it. Children need predictable routines, boundaries and restrictions to give them the parameters in which they can explore and thrive. • Harness ‘in the moment’ situations - Under normal circumstances, an anger tantrum may call for a timeout. However instead of timeouts, try time-ins. Sending children away and into isolation may sometimes worsen the situation. Rather take the child for a walk, or

“Many children’s social, emotional, and mental wellbeing have been impacted by the pandemic. Trauma faced at this developmental stage may have long-term consequences across their lifespan.

sit in a park, and be there for them. Discuss the feelings the child is having, and discuss how the child can manage those feelings in an alternative way. Listen and learn. “Remember that there is a difference between a tantrum and an outburst of anger, although they may seem similar on the surface,” Pienaar says. “A tantrum occurs when a child doesn’t get his way. The way to address this is to consistently not indulge the demands of the child, which ultimately allows the child to learn that the parent will be consistently

enforcing rules and boundaries, and that tantrums are pointless.” Anger issues, however, point to larger problems outside of the child’s control. “Developing a close connection with the child, spending quality time and developing language around emotions, is the best way to empower a child to manage their anger effectively. If this does not help, and the outbursts continue or escalate, it is advisable that parents seek additional intervention to address the matter early and before greater emotional trauma develops.” 

Dr Greg Pienaar holds a doctorate in Psychology. His work has focused mainly on the school-going child over the years, in terms of therapy or play therapy in private practice. He continues to make a significant contribution to the field of assisted and special needs learning through his articles in educational and psychological journals and papers at international conferences. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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recipes

Pickled Fish

Traditionally served on Easter Friday with hot cross buns or buttered white bread.

Ingredients

Instructions

• 1,2 kg palm-sized pieces of hake, dusted with 250 ml (1 C) cake flour seasoned with salt and 5 ml (1 t) turmeric • 250 ml (1 C) oil for shallow-frying • 250 ml (1 C) water • 250 ml (1 C) brown vinegar • 5 bay leaves • 10 ml (2 t) black peppercorns • 10 ml (2 t) coriander seeds • 15 ml (1 T) turmeric • 30 ml (2 T) curry powder • Salt to taste • 6–8 onions, sliced into rings • 30 ml (2 T) apricot jam • 125 ml (½ C) sugar

1. Fry the seasoned and coated fish in shallow oil for about 2 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Place in a big bowl and set aside. 2. In a large pot on high heat, add the water, vinegar, all the spices and salt. Bring up to a boil, then add the onions, apricot jam and sugar. Cook for 8 minutes. Take off the heat and pour the sauce over the fish in the bowl. 3. Allow to cool. Cover and place in the fridge until ready to eat.

Tips 1. Do not cook the onions for too long or fry them. This is a pickle, meaning the onion should still have a bit of crunch to it. 2. The sugar plays a vital role in this recipe as it creates the very important sweet and sour taste synonymous with pickled fish. Ideally, make it the day before Easter or else it will not last. 3. Should your pickled fish taste on the bland side, too little salt is normally the culprit. 4. To thicken the sauce, add a mixture of 15 ml (1 T) cornflour to 30 ml (2 T) water and add this to the sauce while still cooking. 5. You can use any fish you prefer. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

recipes

Seafood Paella Serves 6

Ingredients

• 60 ml (¼ C) oil • 1 onion, thinly sliced • 1 green or red pepper, cut into strips • 4 cloves garlic, chopped • 3 chillies, chopped • Salt to taste • 30 ml (2 T) paprika • 30 ml (2 T) seafood masala • 5 ml (1 t) black pepper • 500 ml (2 C) basmati rice, uncooked • A few strands of saffron soaked in 850 ml (3¼ C) warm water • 10 mussels on the half-shell 500 g prawns, deveined • Fresh coriander for garnishing • 1 lemon, quartered

Instructions

Gadija

Syd o

1. Heat the oil in a large, deep paella pan on medium to high heat, then add the onion and fry until golden brown. 2. Next, add the peppers, garlic, chillies, salt and spices and stir-fry for a few seconds. 3. Add the rice and warm saffron water and cook for 7 minutes. 4. Add the mussels first and then the prawns and cover the pan with foil or a lid. Cook on medium heat for 8–10 minutes or until all the water has cooked away. 5. Serve with a garnish of fresh coriander and lemon quarters.

Fati m

a Sydow

Tips 1. If you don’t have saffron, simply replace with 5 ml (1 t) turmeric. 2. You can add any seafood you like. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Credit: Michelle Parkin Photography

DIY arts & crafts

Recycled cardboard

egg tray flowers Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own upcycled flowers by recycling cardboard egg trays.

asy This is an e n at eve project th n do. the kids ca ake mom Why not m cycled ly, re some love owers for egg tray fl ay? Mother's D

Step 1 Find two clean egg trays to use for your project.

You will need:

• Old egg boxes or egg trays • Pipe cleaners • Red and yellow acrylic paint • Small paintbrush • Scissors • Craft knife

Step 2 We are going to cut up our egg trays in various ways. Start by cutting out squares from the trays. Make about six of these.

Step 3 We need to cut out another six squares from our egg tray, but this time we need to turn the tray upside down and cut out this shape. You will see as you look at you egg tray there are many different ways to cut out different designs from the trays. Not all egg trays are made the same so if yours does not look exactly the same, it will still work.

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DIY arts & crafts Step 5

Step 4

Cut away the excess cardboard from the sides until you have a four leaf flower.

If you keep trimming away the petals of the last flower, you will get thinner inserts for your flowers, as shown in the following photo. Cut out about four of these. We are trying to make flowers that are all different, this is why we are cutting out so many different shape.

Step 6 After you have a variety of shapes, place some of the flowers into each other to see the various designs you can come up with.

Step 7 Once you have made up your various designs, paint the petals in red and yellow. I have painted the inside petals in yellow and the outside petals in red, but you can paint them in any colour you like.

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DIY arts & crafts Step 8 Once you have your pipe cleaner halfway through your egg tray flowers, gently fold the top of the pipe cleaner so that you have a twirl at the top. This will prevent the pipe cleaner from coming out and creates a pretty stamen for your flowers.

Step 9

Now make a small hole in the base of each set of petals to put the pipe cleaner through for the stem. Put your inner petal inside the flower and then push a pipe cleaner through the middle of the petals to hold it all together.

Step 10 Once all your flowers are painted and you have put the pipe cleaners in, you are ready to do your arrangement.

All that remains now is to find a nice vase and cut up some green leaves to place between your flowers to add colour and body to the flowers. This means even in winter you can have stunning flowers on your desk as there is always some green in the garden.

For any questions contact: Winnie@upcycle.co.za 92

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book reviews

Pearson Books -

Letterland series

ABC book with audio CD This best-selling ABC Book is a much-loved publication and a great introduction to the Letterland characters for children aged 3-6. Children will enjoy meeting Annie Apple and all her friends as they look at the 26 beautifully illustrated scenes and listen to the accompanying stories. On each page there are lots of objects to discover, beginning with a letter sound, so there's plenty of opportunity for young learners to practise their growing phonics skills. Price: R260

Far Beyond ABC book with audio CD This is a sequel to the best-selling ABC Book, introducing the concept of letters coming together in words to make new sounds. Far Beyond ABC completes an invaluable set of three books, which together hold the key to learning to read. Beautifully illustrated, it opens up the secrets of 20 more major English spelling patterns. The child-friendly story logic appeals to children's minds, making phonic facts easy to remember. Price: R260

Beyond ABC book with audio CD This ingenious sequel to the best-selling ABC Book introduces the concept of letters coming together in words to make new sounds. Read about Harry Hat Man making Clever Cat sneeze 'ch', or Walter Walrus being 'aw'ful to Annie Apple by splashing her with water! Featuring 22 essential digraphs with plenty of things to find containing the target digraph sound, young learners will develop their phonics skills quickly. The child-friendly story logic appeals to children's minds, making the phonic facts easy to remember. Price: R260

Wipe-Clean Alphabet Book Hundreds of thousands of children have already learned to read with the help of Annie Apple, Bouncy Ben and Clever Cat - just three of the friendly characters who form part of the unique phonics system called Letterland. Price: R165

Alphabet Songs CD 26 lively songs sung to well-known nursery tunes provide early learners with a great introduction to the Letterland alphabet. Encourage them to sing along as they learn the sounds the a-z make in words. Price: R195.00

Alphabet Frieze Learn the a-z, alphabetical order, the Aa-Zz pairs and the letter sounds with this colourful frieze. Price: R165

Handwriting Practice Book 1 This write-in activity book is for children progressing from tracing the letters to independent writing. It includes fun pre-writing activities with a focus on pencil control. The friendly Letterlanders introduce the correct strokes with a double page for each letter of the alphabet in upper and lower case, plus numbers 1-10. Suitable for ages 3+. Price: R125

My First Alphabet Activity Book This bright book helps children link letter shapes and sounds and is a first introduction to the a-z Letterland characters. Children will love finger tracing the letters and making links between the letters, and the sounds they make at the beginning of simple words - a great first step towards learning to spell. Price: R110

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Child-friendly phonics

Helping children to read, write and spell the fun way for over 45 years Interactive Handwriting Flashcards These large ﬂashcards can be wiped clean so there are no mistakes – perfect for handwriting skills! Comes with a special pen!

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Use the FREE Interactive Handwriting app on your mobile or tablet for an interactive experience! Scan the book or cards to reveal 52 handwriting animations plus a game for each letter of the alphabet.

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