Baby's and Beyond™ - Issue 13 - April - June 2017 by Media Xpose

Baby’s and Beyond April – June 2017

babys beyond TM

and

a family lifestyle magazine

Children in the

stars

10 Questions to ask super nanny in an interview

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

April – June 2017 ISSN 2311-5467

9 772311 546706 www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Egg donation and surrogacy

Wrinkle warriors WINTER CARE

for children’s skin

INSIDE: Features Competitions Kicks for kids Recipes 2017/04/04 2:47 PM

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babys beyond TM

and

a family lifestyle magazine

CONTENTS FEATURES

Children in the stars.................................................................8 Egg donation and surrogacy..............................................12 Osteopathic treatment for fertility......................................16 Creating new permanent families......................................18 Relieving the pain of teething.............................................20 When promises are broken, explain why...........................23 10 Questions to ask supper nanny at an interview........... 24 The secret link between the brain and being active....... 26 The curfew: Why it’s important............................................28 Parenting plans for divorce and separation...................... 30 The scourge of the bed bug................................................32 Targeting termites.................................................................33 Choosing the correct car seat............................................35 Wrinkle warriors......................................................................38 An ageless appearance in an ageing world.................... 40

HEALTH

Winter care for children’s skin..............................................42 Allergy alert............................................................................48 Homemade organic baby food.........................................50 What is free sugar costing our kids?....................................52 Expecting? Don’t neglect your teeth.................................54 What’s causing your cough?..............................................58 Bone fractures in kids............................................................61

EDUCATION

Bully-proof you child.............................................................66 Safety online..........................................................................68 The true mirror versus the social mirror................................70

REGULARS

33 2

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Out & About: Play is the order of the day at Bugz Playpark.................................................................72 Kicks for Kids: Fun puzzles and activities............................75 Grab Some Grub: Macaroni cheese with mushrooms...................................................................78 Sweet potato crisps..............................................................80 Post-pregnancy hair treatment programme..................... 82 Promising Products: Keeping the immune system healthy, Essential vitamins and minerals, Pump up your cashback....................................................83 Book Review: This edition’s recommended reading........ 87 www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Baby’s and Beyond April – June 2017

CREDITS babys beyond TM

and

Editor: Emma Dawson editor@babysandbeyond.co.za

a family lifestyle magazine

Children in the

stars

10 Questions

Egg donation and surrogacy

to ask super nanny in an interview

Wrinkle warriors

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

WINTER CARE

April – June 2017 ISSN 2311-5467

9 772311 546706 www.babysandbeyond.co.za

Editorial Contributors Barbara Eaton Claire Symington Clare Pretorius Damian McHugh Dr Adel Rossouw Dr Ian Webster Gavin Sutton Guy Ashburner Hetesh Pitamber Hettie Scheppel Marene Jooste Marion Smith Marlinie Ramsamy Martie Vosloo Megan Pentz-Kluyts Nolene Rust Tertia Albertyn Content Manager: Melanie Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za

for children’s skin

Design and Layout: CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za

INSIDE: FEATurES CoMpETITIoNS KICKS For KIDS rECIpES

Project Manager: Elroy van Heerden elroy@babysandbeyond.co.za

Pictures: 123rf.com

Advertising Sales Manager: Wendy Scullard wendy@babysandbeyond.co.za Advertising Sales: Vicky Rose vicky@babysandbeyond.co.za Allison Davids allison@babysandbeyond.co.za

babysandbeyond

Chief Financial Officer: Shaun Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za

@babysandbeyond

Marketing & Online Advertising Coordinator: Maurisha Niewenhuys marketing@mediaxpose.co.za Distribution and Subscriptions: Janine Mays distribution@mediaxpose.co.za Printing Novus Print Solutions www.novus.holdings

Published By:

babys beyond TM

and

a family lifestyle magazine

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404 Commerce House, 55 Short Market Street, Cape Town, 8001 PO. Box 15165, Vlaeberg, 8018 Tel: 021 424 3625 Fax: 086 544 5217 E-mail: info@babysandbeyond.co.za 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.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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ED’S NOTE Celebrating our parents

n our family, Mother’s and Father’s Day are about spending time together, usually gathered around the table with our extended family for a roast lunch. As adults, it’s all about getting together but there was a time when, for us kids, the focus was on getting the perfect pressie and card. In fact, among my treasures are some hand-crafted creative gems that my Mum has kept all these years and recently gave to my brother and me for safe keeping. Among these works of art are lovingly-created Mother’s and Father’s Day cards. The chocolates, soaps and other pressies are long gone, but the cards live one. In South Africa, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, and Father’s Day on the third Sunday in June. However, the history of these two important days goes back a long way. The Ancients Greeks dedicated an annual spring festival to Rhea, known as ‘the mother of gods’. She was strongly associated with Gaia and Cybele because of their similar functions. The classical Greeks saw her as the mother of the Olympian gods and goddesses, and the Romans identified her with Magna Mater (their form of Cybele) and the Goddess Ops. Early Christians also celebrated a form of Mother’s Day at a festival on the fourth Sunday of Lent to honour the Virgin Mary. An official celebration for Mother’s Day was first suggested by Julia Ward Howe in 1872. Her ‘Appeal to Womanhood’ (later famously known as the Mother’s Day Proclamation) was a pacifist reaction to the carnage of the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War. Dedicated to peace, Julia’s idea spread widely and was later replaced by the Mother’s Day holiday we now celebrate in May. The history and origins of Father’s Day can be traced back more than 4 000 years. In Babylon, Elmesu carved a message on a clay card to wish his father a long and happy life. Although fathers have been revered through the centuries, the official recognition of Father’s Day only happened in the early 1900s. Sonora Louise Smart Dodd is accepted as the instigator of this celebration. In 1909, she heard a Mother’s Day sermon and thought about her father’s hardships while bringing up his family. When she was 16 her mother died during childbirth, leaving her father to raise his six children and the newborn baby on his own. Sonora pondered why there was a day for mothers but not for fathers and began a campaign lobbying for the cause. Finally, on June 19, 1909, the first Father’s Day was celebrated and the tradition has continued ever since. Bringing us back to the present, we once again have a jam-packed edition, filled with lots of enlightening advice and information to help you navigate the wonderful journey of parenthood in the 21st century. The Baby’s And Beyond team wishes all parents and guardians a happy Mother’s and Father’s Day!

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY

The world-renowned consulting astrologer, Nicola Smuts Allsop, launched her ground-breaking fertility astrology App in Cape Town in February.

Children in the stars By Emma Dawson

You don’t have to believe in it for it to work. I’m talking about astrology and, to be more specific, fertility astrology in particular. In a groundbreaking move, Nicola Smuts Allsop, the world-renowned consulting astrologer specialising in fertility, has launched the first ever App that tells you which times in the year ahead are ideal for conception.

uring February, South Africa’s Reproductive Health Month, an impressive panel of specialists added their credentials to Nicola’s at the launch of her world-first fertility astrology App in Cape Town. The event was emceed by Lisa Chiat and, lending their

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professional support to Nicola, panellists included a well-known London Harley Street consultant in gynaecology and fertility, Dr Gedis Grudzinskas; a Cape Town-based gynaecologist, Dr Phil Barnard; locally-respected astrologer, Rod Suskin; and cowww.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY Because astrology teaches us that there is a time for everything, and it is seldom found that technology can manipulate our Fate, astrology can be used to identify the times when we are most likely to conceive. Even then there is no guarantee, just an increased chance of conception. ‘However, an additional practical application of fertility astrology is that the physical and reproductive health of both gestational parents can be established,’ Nicola insists.

By your work, you shall be known

Photo credit: Nicola Smuts Allsop

founder of Nuture Egg Donor Agency, Tertia Albertyn. Also at the event to share their personal infertility journeys and the work they’ve done with Nicola, were five couples and their children from the stars.

What is fertility astrology? Fertility astrology is a highly-specialised field of astrology that works with timing, cycles and signatures (patterns). ‘Astrology can help by pinpointing the three most astrologically fertile moments in anyone’s chart – and knowing these times is important if you want to fall pregnant,’ Nicola notes. ‘To me, astrology is a symbolic language or narrative construct that is used to explore and establish self-identity. While it employs technology and science that might appear scientific, it cannot be empirically tested as the quality of time can’t be repeated in a controlled laboratory environment. The system is holistic – one signature cannot be isolated and tested with any quantitative outcome. However, it can be researched and studied qualitatively and, where astrology is used as a narrative construct in therapy, further research will endorse its efficacy in the healing arts,’ Nicola explains. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Nicola is a consulting astrologer living in the UK. Originally from South Africa, she completed her first studies at the Rod Suskin School of Astrology in Cape Town, and completed a Diploma in Medieval Astrology with Astrologos (Bernadette Brady) in the UK. Nicola has recently graduated from Canterbury Christ Church University, with a Master’s Degree in Myth, Cosmology and The Sacred. Nicola’s practical knowledge of IVF and other reproductive treatments is extensive and, by using astrology, Nicola is able to: • Identify morphology/motility problems in men’s charts • Describe the condition and quantity of women’s egg production • Describe the condition of the fallopian tubes and anticipate the likelihood of laparoscopy or surgery • Identify thyroid or other endocrine factors that inhibit hormone development • Identify certain psychological issues from the natal chart that might be inhibiting fertility in both men and women (this is most successful) • Select optimum times for couples to try IVF/other treatments.

An App is born With the aim of ‘normalising’ astrology and making her skills more widely available to more people, Nicola’s App, The Fertility Astrology App, tells you within minutes which times in the year ahead are ideal for conception. Based on her research and fertility experience, this App (available on iTunes and the Google Play Store) can be used by anyone wanting to know their fertile times. The Fertility Astrology App is unique as it uses a complex methodology developed by Nicola over the past 17 years (using medieval astrology as a base) to pinpoint up to three astrologically fertile times in the next 365 days. These times are very specific to you and your gestational partner’s birth chart. There are other Apps out there but they do not work the same way or pinpoint these times. Also unique is that The Fertility Astrology App can be applied to any family type, including an egg donor or surrogate pregnancy. The App (R174 per download for one use) provides up to three astrologically fertile times and helps to educate and prompt users to investigate medical conditions that might be affecting the infertility of both partners. Additionally, it can be used by any family type – male+female; female+female, male+male, surrogate, egg donor, etc. For those who do a Skype consultation with Nicola (R3 200 for an hour), a lot more detail is provided, including three years of timings for high fertility and IVF planning if needed.

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FEATURE: FERTILITY Taking charge of your fertility Infertility can be a rollercoaster ride for couples and anything that helps them on their journey is invaluable. ‘Having had IVF myself, I know what women go through. I know what the drugs can do to you, I know how vulnerable they feel, I know how bad their sex lives can be,’ Nicola empathises. The five couples who attended the launch all spoke of the isolation, cost, desperation, sadness, loss and a feeling of complete lack of control over the process. The common thread to all their stories was that they were willing to do anything to get pregnant. Another significant message they shared was that once they had consulted Nicola, they felt more in control and had a sense of balance and order, as well as a renewed sense of hope about their journeys to get pregnant. ‘I would not have had IVF and, I definitely wouldn’t have had treatment in August,’ one of Nicola’s clients told us at the event. ‘The timing was just before putting on a massive stage production and I would have worried about the stress.’ However, following Nicola’s recommendations she went ahead anyway, successfully. This was just one of many success stories shared on the day. Nicola’s knowledge is invaluable for those undergoing IVF, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) and other infertility treatments. Knowing when to implant a fertilised egg into the womb, or when sperm is most astrologically fertile, is crucial to the success of these costly and emotionally difficult procedures. Assessing Nicola’s success rate is not straightforward. Her clients are mainly 37 to 50 years old and predominantly people with fertility problems. ‘I do ask clients to keep me in the loop and some do. I don’t chase people – that’s unethical – but it seems I’m about 75% accurate in whatever I say,’ she points out. However, the question is not does it work but, rather, does it help?’ The answer is a resounding yes. Nicola has some support from the medical world. Dr Gedis Grudzinskas, a consultant in gynaecology and fertility in London notes: ‘Nicola’s referred patients come well-informed, speaking highly of her and the guidance she provides about options relevant to them. Her referred couples have a realistic perspective about their expectations of success, which is attributed to the clear, professional explanations Nicola provides. In my 25 years’ experience, I have rarely worked with a nonmedically trained colleague who has been able to professionally advise couples in their plight for parenthood.’ He adds that couples referred by Nicola are able to take control by making the choice about when they want to do IVF, at a time they feel most comfortable with.

Something else at play In his book, Infertility, Professor Robert Winston mentions that even if you are both in your twenties and of perfect health, you still only have a 15% chance of falling pregnant. Nicola has confirmed this with another more current specialist from the US, Dr Michael Levy of Shady Grove in Washington DC. In his opinion, this percentage should be increased to 20%. This still leaves a huge amount to chance in

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the business of conceiving, clearly indicating that something else is at play. Nicola adds: ‘We are multi-layered beings, and the physical layer is just one of these. Emotional blocks, fears, beliefs, and relationship issues can all be barriers to conception. For example, we talk about predispositions. There may be a narrative of ‘not enough’ – not enough time, not enough money, not enough love, not enough eggs.’ In other words, a low ovarian response and only a few eggs being produced. The beauty of fertility astrology is that it can save couples a lot of money, time and heartache. Because astrology can identify health issues in people’s birth charts, Nicola can help to maximise and optimise the chance of getting pregnant. ‘I may advise someone to try pregenetic testing of the embryo and if chromosomal abnormalities are picked up, to move straight to donor eggs. The doctor may think it’s too soon to do genetic testing, or will try another costly round of the procedure. I’ll say stop dithering. My consultation may also alert the doctor to this possibility, and prepare the woman for this conversation. My advice can also be practical common sense, or encourage bravery to look at difficult issues.’ Nicola always refers people to medical doctors for further investigations if she is alerted to a condition they should be aware about.

Taking fertility astrology to the next level Summing up, renowned local astrologer, Rod Suskin, points out that Nicola’s App gives more people access to the power and value of astrology. ‘Astrology has always had close connections with medicine. Through her knowledge and experience, Nicola is bringing very modern medicine (IVF) together with the ancient art of traditional astrology and taking fertility astrology to a whole new level.’

For more details, visit www.fertilityastrology. com, as well as You Tube Fertility Astrology to view short films with interviews of Nicola, Dr Grundzinskas, and families who have used fertility astrology to conceive. Stay in touch on Facebook at FertilityAstrology or Twitter @NicolaSmuts #FertilityAstrology.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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ADVERTORIAL: PREGNANCY & BIRTH

A healthy pregnancy, and beyond Now that you’re pregnant, it’s time to look at your wellbeing and how best to ensure your baby develops healthily. While you’ll receive everyone’s input about diet, exercise and topics you never knew existed, our advice is research, research, research.

o this, we’re adding our two-cents’ worth about healthy bones and ensuring you have sufficient milk once your baby arrives.

Healthy bones Your bones work hard, so keeping them healthy and strong is essential for a vital, active life. And that’s what you want for your baby too. Supporting your bone health, while making sure your baby’s skeleton is developing strongly, is a complex process. Healthy bones require calcium – three to four helpings per day of calcium-rich foods and, if required, a calcium supplement – Flora Force DensiMAXTM is an excellent, all-natural option from the third trimester and beyond. Good bone health also depends on Vitamin D (600 International Units per day while you’re pregnant and breastfeeding – that’s six cups of milk).

Milk concerns: will you have enough? The truth about breast milk is that it’s rare for women to be unable to produce sufficient milk for their babies, and even more unusual for a mother not to be able to produce any milk at all. Numerous factors affect milk supply but a good diet goes a long way to boosting breast-milk production. Try oats, salmon, fruit, leafy greens, carrots, fennel seeds, basil, garlic, barley, and supplements such as fenugreek, blessed thistle and vitamin B-rich brewer’s yeast. Of these, fenugreek seems to be the most effective. Flora Force Fenugreek is a popular, high-quality option. Generally regarded as safe, fenugreek may lower your blood sugar if taken in large doses, so use it with caution if you’re a diabetic. Do not use fenugreek if you’re pregnant – it may cause uterine contractions. As always, speak to your healthcare provider before taking natural remedies. For more information about Flora Force DensiMAX™ and Fenugreek, visit www.floraforce.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY

Photo Credit: Nurture

Egg donation and surrogacy Tertia Albertyn, co-founder of Nuture, South Africa’s most successful egg donation programme, discusses two of the greatest acts of compassion and kindness – egg donation and surrogacy.

gg donation is a process through which a young woman (between the ages of 20 and 33) voluntarily donates some of her eggs (ova) to be used during third-party fertility treatments. These donated eggs would normally be discarded as part of a woman’s monthly cycle. Instead of being ‘flushed away’ each month, in an egg donation cycle, these eggs are retrieved by a fertility specialist, fertilised in a laboratory with the intended father’s sperm (or donor sperm) and placed into the womb of the intended mother (or a surrogate) a few days later. Recipients of these donated eggs are women who have lost their ovaries to cancer or who have suffered premature ovarian failure; or same sex male couples who obviously need an egg donor to have their family. The number of women out there who need help to conceive is staggering – the World Health Organisation estimates that there are currently approximately 60 to 80-million infertility cases around the world. Egg donation in South Africa is 100% legal and strictly regulated by the Policy Committee of the South African Society of Reproductive Science and Surgery. Unlike in many other countries, donors in South Africa remain anonymous with merely her medical history, education, and description of

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physical features, characteristics and her interests being revealed to prospective donor egg recipients. She never meets or contacts the recipients. Only baby photographs of the donor are submitted. Although most recipient couples choose a donor who somewhat resembles the future parent, recipient couples make their final selection based on various criteria that could include a physical match, a personality match, an academic match or a combination of these factors.

How the egg donation process works As a prospective donor, you will first complete a detailed application at your preferred donor agency. Typical information you’d have to disclose includes your physical traits such as your height, weight, eye colour, natural hair colour, personality traits, your educational history and medical history. You’ll also be required to supply photographs of yourself as a baby, a toddler and a young child (up to the age of ten). Once selected to be on the agency’s database of registered donors, this information and the photographs are what the prospective recipients of your donor eggs will have access to. If the agency accepts you based on your application form, you’ll have a face-to-face www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY

Surrogacy is often the last hope for a couple after a long traumatic infertility process.” The egg retrieval process The actual procedure, called an oocyte (egg) aspiration, only takes about 20 to 30 minutes, plus about an hour of recovery time at the clinic. Using ultrasound as a guide, the doctor passes a needle through your upper vagina into each ovary to extract the mature eggs. During the procedure, you will be placed under intravenous sedation (a light sleep) for comfort – you are sedated but not entirely unconscious. This sedation carries fewer risks than normal anaesthesia and relieves anxiety for the patient and ensures she feels no pain during the procedure. After a brief recovery from the anaesthesia, you can go home, but someone must be there to drive you. Over the next few weeks, the donor agency will remain in touch with you to let you know whether your donation had resulted in a pregnancy or not.

Surrogacy in South Africa Couples who are unable to have their own biological child are increasingly beginning to turn to surrogacy. Surrogacy is often the last hope for a couple after a long traumatic infertility process. Because of this, South Africa’s surrogacy laws have been very

Photo credit: Nurture

meeting with an agency coordinator. This is one of many opportunities you have to ask questions and to discuss exactly what’s involved in the donation process. If you are still keen, your profile is added to the donor agency’s database and prospective recipients will immediately start viewing your profile information. Once a donor recipient chooses you – which can take anything from days or weeks to months – you will have two initial appointments at the fertility clinic, one with the gynaecologist and one with the psychologist. Once the clinic receives all the results and everything’s in order, you will be put on a contraceptive pill for the next three to four weeks (provided you’re not already on one). After this, the donation process begins. About a week before you begin treatment you’ll have another brief appointment at the clinic to collect your relevant medication. As a donor, you will not pay for any of the doctor’s appointments, assessments or medication pertaining to the egg donor programme. You may have to miss classes or work for some of your appointments, but doctor’s notes can be supplied for all visits. It is for this inconvenience and for your petrol that you will receive financial compensation of approximately R7 000. On the third day after you’ve begun taking the contraceptive you will begin the daily hormone injections. On Day 8 you will have your first scan. From then until Day 12, you will receive the second and third scans. Depending on how well your body has responded to the hormonal treatment, you should be undergoing the egg retrieval procedure approximately 14 days after starting the treatment.

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FEATURE: FERTILITY carefully drafted to protect all parties involved in the surrogacy agreement. The laws are stringent and the entire process is well managed in this country. However, it all begins with finding a surrogate.

Becoming a surrogate It’s not simple to become a surrogate. First, a surrogate must have one living child of her own – which is something I completely support – as you can’t be a surrogate when you haven’t experienced giving birth to your own child. Surrogates have usually finished having their own families, they don’t want more children, and they understand that the child they will carry is not their own. If there’s any doubt about this, she won’t make it through the screening process. She must be mentally and physically healthy, and will have a full medical screening to make sure that pregnancy won’t negatively affect her health, as well as a psychological screening to ensure she understands the full implications of surrogacy. In 2010, South African surrogacy laws were changed, and surrogates are no longer legally allowed to be paid for their services. Surrogates can only receive payments for reasonable living expenses incurred from the pregnancy such as maternity clothing and pregnancy supplements, and compensation for any financial loss caused by the pregnancy and birth, for example, for time off work. With the new law in place, the number of women willing to be surrogates has significantly decreased. Often, when potential surrogates hear what’s involved, or find out that they won’t be paid, they back out. There may also be something in their medical or psychological screening that prevents them from going any further. Because of this, only about one in six women who apply are accepted, and commissioning parents could wait for about a year, on average, before finding a surrogate. Once a potential surrogate passes all evaluations, she will be matched with a hopeful couple. If the surrogate and the commissioning parents make a connection, a lawyer will draft a contract that will be taken to High Court, where it must be approved by a judge.

The commissioning couple becomes the child’s legal parents before treatment even begins.” Gestational surrogacy – where the commissioning parents provide the eggs and sperm – is the preferred choice in South Africa. If the father is unable to supply sperm, donor sperm can be used. This helps the surrogate to deal with the separation process at birth, because the child is not genetically related to her. It also makes it necessary to go through a fertility clinic to achieve the pregnancy. The commissioning couple becomes the child’s legal parents before treatment even begins. Once the baby is born, the surrogate no longer has any legal rights to the child.

It’s all in the details When two parties are involved in one pregnancy, who makes the big decisions? As it’s her body, the surrogate decides on the type of birth she’d like. Because of the benefit of pre-scheduled dates, surrogates usually opt for C-sections. If the commissioning parents would prefer a different type of birth to the surrogate’s choice, they can choose to wait for another surrogate. However, it’s essential for the intended parents and the surrogate to agree on issues such as termination if, for example, the baby is diagnosed with Down syndrome or a life-threatening condition. However, the law says that ultimately, it’s the surrogate’s decision, as it’s her body. The intended parents are also allowed to ask the surrogate to comply with requests to avoid a certain food, or to give up an activity they feel will be harmful for the baby. All of this is determined beforehand and agreed to by both parties. While it can’t be guaranteed, most women become surrogates because they genuinely want to help so usually things work out very well.

Tertia Albertyn, Nurture’s co-founder, is a recovering infertile and now mother to very cheeky twins conceived on her ninth IVF + one freebie baby. She has written extensively about her personal experience with infertility, both on her award-winning blog (www.tertia.org) and in her book So Close. Tertia was recently recognised by the international organisation, RESOLVE, for her outstanding contribution in the family building community. Co-creator of South Africa’s largest infertility support network (www.fertilicare. org), she lives with her husband and three children. For more information, visit Nurture at www.nurture.co.za or the Surrogacy Advisory Group www.surrogacy.co.za.

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY

Osteopathic treatment for fertility By Dr Guy Ashburner, Osteopath, BSc(Hons)Ost(UK), DPO (UK)

While modern technology enables doctors to enhance parts of the conception process, the price tag is high and investigations do not always find the reason for infertility. However, in recent years, health care consciousness is shifting from medical procedures and pharmaceutical-driven methods to healthy natural approaches for the treatment of infertility.

steopathic treatment combines an extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics to restore structural freedom in the tissues, enhance fluid flow throughout the body, and create the optimal environment for nature to take its natural course. How can your structure affect your physiology for reproductive health and fertility? Your structure is your anatomy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bones, muscles, fascia, ligaments, tendons, organs and different systems down to your cells. The position and mobility of your musculoskeletal framework and internal organs may influence the normal functioning of other systems â&#x20AC;&#x201C; neurological, circulatory, lymphatic and hormonal.

Structures of the body An osteopath will consider all the structures of the body and how their ability to move effectively and efficiently affects reproductive health. The uterus is a mobile organ that is bent and tilted forward, and its position depends on

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whether the bladder and intestines are empty or full as it sits between the two. The uterus can become compressed by buildup of waste matter (constipation) in the colon, which has the potential to effect venous drainage leading to pelvic congestion. Ligaments attach the uterus to the pelvic bones and maintain its position. If your pelvis is out of alignment or if there is abnormal tension in the pelvic floor muscles, this may impact your uterus. If it is inhibited in its motion, this will affect fluid flow and tissue health, causing difficulties with implantation and possibly placental problems. The fallopian tubes extend from the uterus to the ovaries and are movable structures, contacting with the small intestines, bladder and the colon. After the egg leaves the ovary, it travels down the fallopian tubes to the uterus for implantation. If the fallopian tubes donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t move normally, then fertilisation can occur, but implantation cannot. The fertilised egg does not complete its voyage. The ovaries are important in hormone balance and must be movable and have adequate blood supply and drainage. The ovaries are supported by www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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FEATURE: FERTILITY ligaments attaching them to the uterus, fallopian tubes, pelvic wall and lumbar fascia. If the ovaries are not moving well, they have altered hormone output and can make having a baby challenging. Dysfunction of the small intestines (bloating, reflux, IBS) may cause congestion of the ovaries, compromising blood flow and lymphatic drainage.

The nervous system The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a part of the nervous system. Within the ANS are two branches that govern bodily functions – the parasympathetic and the sympathetic. The sympathetic nerves exit from the spine and, should they become irritated or the corresponding joints lose mobility, they can change the neurological state and create a stress response. A stress response alters the flow of both blood and lymphatic fluid resulting in congestion and stagnation. The sympathetic nerves exit the spine at the mid and lower back regions. Misalignment of the spine, sacrum or lower ribs may impact autonomic function. Low back and hip pain is indicative of altered alignment and mechanics, often a result of postural habits or earlier trauma. The parasympathetic nerves to the pelvic organs exit the sacrum, at the base of the spine and can become irritated with dysfunction, poor mobility or trauma to the pelvis, sacrum or coccyx (from falling on your bottom for example). This may cause poor drainage of the pelvic area, impeding delivery of essential reproductive hormones and removal of waste products. The brain (hypothalamus and pituitary glands) influences hormone balance. Muscle and fascial tension and restricted joint mobility in the neck, chest and upper back, and within the skull itself may restrict blood supply and drainage altering hormonal communication with the rest of the body. Forward head posture, whiplash injuries, altered breathing patterns, head trauma (causing strain patterns in the skull), headaches, foggy brain, neck and shoulder pain may predispose to dysfunction at this level.

Scar tissue Scar tissue may also contribute to altered reproductive function. Fascial adhesions and scar tissue may impact on mobility of internal structures

causing them to stick together and even alter organ position. Adhesion formation can be created by trauma, surgical procedures, infections and endometriosis. Signs and symptoms of adhesions include chronic abdominal or pelvic conditions and difficulty with bowel movements. Alterations in structure anywhere in the body can affect the function elsewhere. Even knee or ankle problems may affect reproductive health via the effect on other structures from altered gait mechanics and alignment.

Osteopathic treatment for infertility Osteopathic treatment for infertility seeks to improve function of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, nervous and hormonal systems, as well as the release of emotional stress. Osteopathy may aid fertility by releasing tensions in and around the pelvic anatomy and the spine by using a variety of osteopathic techniques to increase joint mobility, improve spinal and soft tissue health, visceral motility and improve circulation. Osteopathy techniques can be applied to an area that has influence over other areas of the body, thus achieving the desired outcome. Infertility causes include problems connected to the pelvic region, hormonal imbalances, emotional stress and other associated ailments. Faulty body mechanics, incorrect body posture or misalignment of the organs will lead to abnormal blood flow and nerve function, which are vital for optimal reproductive system function. For couples wanting to become parents, osteopathy is a viable, natural choice. It may allow you to conceive naturally, or to get better results from fertility treatment. In fact, the conclusion of a report entitled, Combined Manual Therapy Techniques for the Treatment of Women With Infertility: A Case Series, published in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association (October 2012, Volume 112, No 10) states that there’s a significant probability of increasing fertility through osteopathy. ‘For six of the 10 women in the present case series report, fertility rates improved after manual therapy was applied to the pelvic area. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy of manual therapy as a treatment option for infertile women.’

Dr Guy Ashburner is a registered osteopath who emigrated from the United Kingdom to Cape Town in 2006. Before graduating from the British School of Osteopathy, Guy qualified and worked as a personal trainer in Kensington, London. It was his interest in babies, children and cranial osteopathy that led him to complete a Diploma in Paediatric Osteopathy at the Foundation for Paediatric Osteopathy in London where he later worked as a clinical tutor and osteopath. The Foundation, of which Guy is a registered alumni member, is renowned for its osteopathic treatment, quality care and education. In 2006, Guy established his practice in Constantia, Cape Town. Osteopathy Cape Town embraces holistic osteopathic principles with focused rehabilitation for people of all ages.

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2017/04/03 10:58 PM

FEATURE: FERTILITY

Creating new permanent families Adoption is a wonderful way of creating new permanent families and there’s a dire need, especially for more adoptive families for black South African children.

t is important to put this topic into context. There is a disconnect between the number of children who can potentially benefit from adoptions and those that have been legally declared as adoptable. There are large numbers of children that are vulnerable and in need of permanent alternative family care. According to available statistics, around three million children are either orphaned, abandoned, in foster care, or placed in residential facilities. The number of children who are currently legally available for adoption, and registered in the Register on Adoptable Children and Prospective Adoptive Parents (RACAP), is 536. This means that there are currently 536 children legally ready and waiting to be matched and placed with an adoptive family that has been screened and found to be fit and proper in accordance with the children’s Act.

Reasons for the disconnect There are different reasons for this disconnect. From available research and practise experience, the following factors play a role:

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• Many children who could benefit from adoption are placed in other forms of alternative care. Often, practitioners opt for foster care or another form temporary alternative care. We have found that a lack of knowledge, capacity and expertise often play a role in this. There are also many cultural obstacles and stumbling blocks when considering legal adoptions versus other forms of placement. • Adoption is often seen as a last resort and many people do not have factual information or the correct knowledge about adoptions. • Unlike foster care, adoptions do not entail a monetary grant that is payable to the family. NACSA (the National Adoption Coalition of South Africa) is doing a lot to address these challenges, including various communication campaigns, active engagement with communities and stakeholders to raise awareness and insight, and partnering with the Department of Social Development to develop the capacity of social workers to deal with more children through the legal channels. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:42 PM

FEATURE: FERTILITY The need for adoptive parents There are currently over 500 children waiting and, according to RACAP, only about 45 parents/ applicants who can potentially be matched with those children. We especially need more adoptive families for black South African children.

Challenges within the adoption system Adoption is a cumbersome and long administrative and legal process. While this is necessary because it’s a legal intervention with permanent implications, sometimes the systems and professionals involved complicate the process, which is often not in the interest of the children and families involved. The various sectors involved also struggle to streamline the process and work together in a more complementary way.

Adoption process The best long-term solution for a child, besides her own family, is to be placed in a loving, permanent home through the process of adoption. The process may vary slightly from country to country, but South Africa’s is believed to represent a good standard approach. Children are considered available for adoption if they are orphaned and have no guardian or caregiver willing to take care of them, if the whereabouts of their parents or guardians cannot be established, if they’ve been abandoned, if they’ve been deliberately abused or neglected, or if they need a permanent alternative placement. A child can be adopted by a couple or by a single person, providing they are deemed to be fit and proper parents, will respect the rights of the child, and will take care of the child in totality (physically, financially, emotionally and morally) until they are 18. The assessment for both the child and parents must be conducted by an accredited adoption social worker and in line with your country’s legal system (South Africa Act 38 of 2005 Chapter 15). An adoption may only be cancelled if it is in the best interests of the child, the biological mother’s consent was required but not obtained for the adoption, or the adoptive parent did not qualify to adopt the child in terms of the Act that governs the adoption process. This may only be applied for in a High Court and must be lodged within a reasonable time (in South Africa this cannot exceed two years from the date of the adoption). For more detailed information, refer to your country’s specific Act that guides your adoption process.

There are large numbers of children that are vulnerable and in need of permanent alternative family care.” www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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We especially need more adoptive families for black South African children.” Adoptive families Adoptive families need to contact an accredited adoption social worker and complete a formal request to adopt. They will then be subjected to various assessments to ensure that they meet the requirements of an adoptive parent. This includes medical, psychological, relationship, financial and home assessments, as well as a police clearance. During this screening, the parents are counselled about the process of adoption to ensure that they are prepared for this life-changing event. Once assessed and deemed fit and proper adoptive parents, they make a formal application to adopt and be placed on the registry of adoptable children and parents. An accredited adoption social worker also assesses the child for adaptability or to be legally pronounced as abandoned. If the adoption relates to a mother experiencing a crisis pregnancy, or who wishes to place her child up for adoption, the mother should be counselled extensively to ensure that she understands the permanency of the arrangement and what consent will mean. She then has to formally rescind (give up) her parental rights in a court and consent to the adoption of her child. Counselling should continue throughout this process. Once children are deemed adoptable, they are also placed on the register of adoptable children and parents.

Adoptive children The adoptable child is then matched with the ideal parents for them – either in their own country or, if no suitable match if found nationally, intercountry adoption is considered. All intercountry adoptions are overseen by intercountry agreements set out by the Hague Convention on intercountry adoption. Once the child has been appropriately matched with parents, the state or governing body authorises the adoption and the child is then placed in the care of their adoptive parents. There is usually a post-placement assessment before the adoption is finalised in court. The adoption should then be registered by the relevant authority and the child’s identity documentation amended to reflect their new adoptive family status. If the child was adopted by international parents, it is only at this point that they can return to their home country with the child. Adoption is a wonderful way of creating new permanent families but it is not all smooth sailing. NACSA recommends that adoptive parents seek post-adoption support through social workers, counsellors and other adoptive parents. For more information, visit www.adoptioncoalitionsa.org.

2017/04/03 11:43 PM

FEATURE: GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

Relieving the pain of

teething

Your baby may be at teething age but you’re not 100% sure whether her unusual behavior is a result of her teething. Here’s what to look out for and advice on how to relieve the pain caused by teething.

eething, a natural physiological process that all children experience, is a big part of a baby’s first year. Generally, the primary teething process starts at six months and lasts until about three years old. Symptoms can be split into two categories. The first is signs indicating a local source of pain – gingival swelling, irritation, redness of the gums, thumb sucking and gum rubbing. Then, there are the systemic symptoms, which are the ones that affect the whole body – loss of appetite, crying, increased salivation, drooling, diarrhoea, boils, general irritability, low fever, runny nose, conjunctivitis, some day-time restlessness, increased biting, wakefulness, ear rubbing or facial rashes. These teething symptoms will vary from baby to baby and there is no magical recipe when it comes to detecting whether or not they are related to teething. If you suspect teething is the cause, help by beginning with simple strategies – a cuddle, rubbing the gums gently using a clean finger, using a teething ring (solid, silicone-based teething rings are better than liquid-filled products that could leak and can’t be sterilised), or sugar-free teething biscuits if your baby is old enough. If that is not enough to soothe the pain, choose the pharmacological. There are two options: local treatment, such as a teething gel,

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or the systemic approach, such as a pain relief syrup. Whichever you choose, it is possibly the first time your baby may be experiencing pain. She might feel distressed or frustrated by this new and undesirable sensation, making your care and love the best way to support her. Also, remember that taking care of you baby’s oral health from an early age will undoubtedly contribute to the quality of her life. Even before any teeth arrive and the teething process begins, start a daily habit of cleaning your baby’s mouth/gums with a silicone finger stall. Brushing should start as soon as the first tooth appears. A special brush is required for infants, ideally something with a small head and extra soft bristles. Babies only need a minor amount of suitable toothpaste, equivalent to a grain of uncooked rice. Dentists recommend that dental visits should start no later than the age of one. As your baby gets older you should visit the dentist more regularly. Even though there might not be much to look at, your dentist will be able to give you oral hygiene advice for your baby. Early visits will also help her prepare for more frequent dentist visits as she gets older. For more information, visit www.teejel.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:43 PM

ADVERTORIAL: TEEJEL

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eething can be painful for babies and parents. Studies show that 85% of babies experience pain while teething – the most common symptom associated with the process. Even if your baby doesn’t look ill or irritable all the time, it doesn’t mean he isn’t feeling pain. Pain related to teething can be relieved by different treatments – either by local application, such as a gel applied directly at the site of the pain, or through systemic treatment, such as a pain syrup. It is important to use a medicine that is indicated for the problem and has been approved by the South African Medicine Regulatory Authority.

TEEJEL® Gel is a registered medicine indicated for the effective relief of teething pain. Its active ingredient, choline salicylate, is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic that has a pain-killing effect that blocks pain impulses to the brain, essentially inhibiting the pain that is felt (or sensed). To use TEEJEL® Gel, wash your finger or finger-stall well and apply an adequate amount of the gel (1cm for adults and older children, and 0.5cm for infants up to two years) to the tender area of the mouth. Massage in well and repeat the application three or four times a day before meals and also at bedtime. TEEJEL® Gel is a leading brand available in pharmacies, baby stores and supermarkets. TEEJEL® Gel is not just for babies. It is indicated for the relief of fever blisters, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, brace cuts or denture sores. Visit www.teejel.co.za for more on TEEJEL® Gel and its benefits.

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2017/04/03 11:44 PM

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2017/04/03 11:45 PM

FEATURE: GOOD PARENTING

When promises are broken, explain why By Martie Vosloo, principal of Junior Colleges Preschool Luthuli

Promises are linked to trust, and trust carries an important role in any relationship. It is vital that parents are cautious when they make unattainable promises to their little ones.

hildren’s minds are like an empty diary with pages representing the aspects of life that ultimately determine the child’s emotional build up. These pages are open to anyone with any influence on the child to write on and ultimately determine how the child’s character is developed as she grows. It’s up to parents to prioritise being the first to write on those pages and set the standards for their children. Promises – meaning to make a declaration or assurance that you will do something, or that something will happen – causes great mistrust in relationships when not kept, especially when children are involved. A relationship in which a child is constantly exposed to empty promises could easily breed a child that does not have a trusting nature, and lead to a paranoid and anxious child who believes that peoples’ words cannot be trusted, and that it is okay to make a promise and not follow it through. According to Dr Shezaei Kamroodien, a Durbanbased psychologist, ‘When promises are broken we need to ensure we explain to our children why, and also suggest other activities to ease the child’s disappointment’. The word ‘promise’ should not be used lightly,

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especially when there’s a possibility of it not being attainable. Perhaps avoid using the word ‘promise’ and rather use ‘I will try’ or ‘we will see’. Parents also need to teach children how to cope with disappointment, which helps build resilience. There are great outcomes that come with being able to explain why promises were broken. First, it teaches your child to trust you even though a promise fell through. You want your child to take your word about important things. If they can’t trust you with the little things, how can they trust you with the big things? Second, your child learns to model your personal integrity as you take your time to apologise and explain reasons for broken promises. Third, your child gets to know that you value and respect them when you take the time to explain. Fourth, it builds respect in the relationship and a sense of security – your child knows her parents are always there for her. And finally, it teaches your children how to have healthy relationships built on trust. Ultimately, when promises are broken there is always a way to mend the broken pieces to create an environment of trust and security for a child. ADvTECH Schools Division, www.advtech.co.za.

2017/04/03 11:45 PM

10 FEATURE: CHILD CARE

Questions

to ask super nanny in an interview By Marion Smith, Owner of Aupairs Exclusive

Finding a nanny so that you can return to work is always a difficult decision. Here are 10 questions to ask to help you to decide what makes her different from everyone else.

hese questions provide a guideline when interviewing a nanny. However, also remember to go with your gut instinct. 1. You are preparing a bottle of formula, do you put the water or formula in first? Someone fully trained and an experienced will be able to offer a full demonstration or explanation. 2. Have you done a first aid course? If she says yes, give her a scenario and ask her what she would do? 3. What did you like about the last family you worked for? Not ‘why did you leave?’ Find out how positive she is, if she speaks kindly about the children, and whether she glows when she speaks about them. 4. How would you stimulate my children? You want to see if she knows about age-appropriate games and if she can draw up a weekly schedule of activities involving arts and crafts, outdoor play, good old traditional games, nursery rhymes and if she would be using items in the home to do this. 5. How long do you want to work for my family? Ideally you want a long-term relationship. Many childminders now go on to get drivers licenses and, at a later stage, become an au pair for the family. 6. What type of discipline will you use with my children? Does she understand the concept of

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time out? Ask what type of discipline she used in previous homes. 7. When my baby is crying, what will you do? If your child is awake, give your baby to her to hold during the interview, especially if he is crying. You also want know what motions she uses – does she put him on his back, or rock him, etc. 8. How many children have you taken care of at one time? You want to understand how many children she took care of alone, without the help of the mom or a domestic worker. 9. When changing a nappy, which way do you wipe? She should know a girl you wipe front to back. Ask her to change your child’s nappy to see how she does it. 10. You want to understand her, her lifestyle and life story: how many children does she have, who looks after them, is she married, how often does she go home, are her parents still alive, does she have siblings, does she want to study anything? Employing someone to take care of you children is a very difficult decision. You can teach your nanny certain skills but you can’t teach her to come to work with a genuine smile and a warm heart. For more information, visit www.aupairsexclusive.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:46 PM

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2017/04/03 11:47 PM

FEATURE: GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

The secret link between the brain and being active In the second of a series of articles about getting children moving, Marene Jooste, kinderkineticist, explains the secret link between the brain and being active.

hysical inactivity is now identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Apart from the health benefits and that movement counterfeits emotional stress, movement is also crucial for optimum brain health and learning. We shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t underestimate the importance of physical activity. In the book, Learning Through Movement and Music, it states that exercise benefits the brain even before

it benefits the body. The brain does not store its own fuel, nor does it produce its own fuel. The brain relies on the body to get its needed fuel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; oxygen and glucose. The healthier and more physically fit the body is, the more efficiently the brain functions. This is because exercise physically changes the brain at a molecular level by growing new brain cells through a process called neurogenesis. According to the latest

April 6 is World Physical Activity Day 26

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:49 PM

FEATURE: GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT research, some of the changes resulting from exercise and movement include improved brain function; enhanced cognition; improved memory; reduced stress; balanced mood and behaviour; improved attention, motivation, self-esteem, cooperation and impulse control; improved social skills and behaviour; and improved problem-solving skills.

A high-yield investment Physical activity is clearly a high-yield investment for us all. Even more so for children and those with attentive or hyperactive symptoms. Just imagine giving your child a spoon-full of exercise every day. This will lead him to naturally concentrate better, have better impulse control and experience less stress. No wonder John Ratey, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard, suggests that people should think of exercise as medication for ADHD. Healthy, active kids also make better learners. In 2009, the Cooper Institute performed the Texas Youth Fitness Study where they compared their Fitness Gram™ scores to the scores from a standardised test called TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills). The researchers found significant links between physical fitness and signs of academic achievement. Higher levels of fitness are associated with better academic performance, better school attendance, and fewer negative incidents at school.

More movement Realising the importance of being physically active, we should aim to engage our children in more movement every day. Did you know that toddlers (one to three) and preschoolers (three to five) should be physically active for at least three hours a day, spread throughout the day? Children and youth aged five to 17 should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. Most of the daily physical activity should be aerobic. Vigorousintense activities should be incorporated, including those that strengthen muscle and bone, at least three times a week. Unfortunately, modern lifestyles mean children spend more time sitting than being on the move, and our environments play a big part in how active we are. So, how can we practically help our children to benefit from being active? What can we implement in everyday life to ensure that our children learn better and are healthier? In today’s hurried life, stimulation and exercise should be done on purpose, not by accident. We must purposefully plan to get active and healthy, and make this one of our lifelong goals.

Get active with your child Remember, you are the most important role model in your child’s life. By being active with your children you can encourage their lifelong enjoyment of physical activity – while benefiting yourself at the same time. When you can, involve the whole family – try walking to the park, visiting the zoo, or playing soccer in the backyard. Being outdoors is best – just make sure kids have sun protection. If the weather is no good, head indoors and build cubby houses or play hide and seek. Choose ‘active’ toys – boxes, balls, bats, tricycles, kites, streamers, bubbles, hoops and toys that encourage climbing, running, jumping, throwing, catching and moving around. Play materials don’t need to be expensive and can be found around the house. Pre-schools and schools should include daily physical activities into the curriculum, and a Kinderkineticist can be of great help to introduce movement (according to wellresearched principles) to your little ones.

Take back the streets If your environment does not allow for kids to be active, arrange with your local church or school to make use of their playground or sporting facilities over the weekend. You can also help to start an initiative launched in England where people are taking back the streets for children to play in. Streets are once again coming alive with scooting, cycling, hopscotch and chalk. The new ‘play streets’ are designated by councils following requests from residents. It is estimated there are now more than 80 designated play streets in England and Wales. Don’t wait for your local authorities. Begin talking to your neighbours and organise a car-free zone in your street for certain hours of the day so that children can play soccer or ride bikes without the fear of being run over.

Limit television Last, but not least, TV, DVDs and computer games may be popular with kids but they usually involve sitting for long periods. This is causing children to lose out on the benefits of being active. Regardless of how active kids may be, it is still important to limit screen time. The American Academy of Paediatrics has provided guidelines when it comes to screen time. For children between the ages of two and five, watching television or using other electronic media should be limited to less than one hour per day. Children younger than two should not spend any time watching television or using other electronic media. Let’s get back to basics, for our children’s sake. Let us be active again! Until next time, happy moving moments!

Marene Jooste has a masters’ degree in Kinderkinetics and serves on SAPIK’s board as one of two vice-presidents. She is also an integrated learning practitioner and the founder of Kwanda Kinetics, an innovative development centre in Gauteng. For more information, visit www.kwandakinetics.co.za. To find a Kinderkineticist practicing in your area, visit www.kinderkinetics.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/03 11:51 PM

FEATURE: HOME FRONT

The curfew: Why it’s important By Clare Pretorius, senior deputy principal of Trinityhouse High Randpark Ridge

In times of both peace and unrest, the use of a curfew has ensured safety and control for ‘the people’ and for those in authority. Putting a curfew in place for children and young adults serves a similar purpose. While controversial, this practice is one that parents and guardians still find merit in, despite the popular modern trend to be more lenient rather than restrictive.

urfews apply to children of all ages, extending to teens and young adults still living at home. There are several reasons that a curfew is an effective and valid parenting tool. One of the more ‘selfish’ reasons is that curfews allow parents to better plan their lives by applying times that suit them; and that they are not kept up waiting all night for a young person to return home. Knowing that parents require you home at a certain time will also enhance your sensitivity to the needs of others, resulting in social courtesy. This courtesy makes for a far more manageable household.

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On a less flippant note, a curfew assists in ensuring the safety of our young people. Often, it is not our children’s behavior that worries us but rather how others behave. Certain times of day/night may be considered safer than others and adhering to a curfew could assist in keeping your young person in a safe environment during those more-risky times. Additionally, a young person who is required to leave at a certain time will often be able use her curfew as a reason not to engage in certain behaviour or not to go somewhere where she is not comfortable. This is a useful tool that she will have at her disposal and may allow her to bow out of an unwanted situation gracefully. Curfews have been helpful in ensuring the safety of our young people from behaviours such as drinking, drugs, promiscuity and violence. In a time where there are so many threats to young peoples’ safety, we need to be using every tool at our disposal.

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2017/04/03 11:52 PM

FEATURE: HOME FRONT Managing schedules Although most teenagers would deny it, something they yearn for is structure and a level of discipline. To a young person, a complete lack of structure and discipline could equate to a lack of caring. It is a time in their lives when they are being bombarded from every angle with new things to do and try and there is pressure from every sphere of their lives. Trying to balance school, sport and a social life takes some doing. Parents can assist if they put a curfew in place for the sake of the child’s busy schedule. This allows the child to form good habits and take responsibility for her schedule. Learning to work towards and around a curfew, and learning the importance of being on time is a vital skill so many of us have lost. Surprisingly, adherence to a curfew is so much more than a simple disciplinary step taken by parents. Once a child becomes accustomed to it, she will find that the same discipline applies to studying, personal relationships and general work ethic.

Although most teenagers would deny it, something they yearn for is structure and a level of discipline.” Make it reasonable and appropriate It is obviously important to ensure that the curfew is reasonable, manageable and that it is appropriate and valid. It is not to be used as part of an autocratic style of parenting, but rather as a tool that benefits all members of the family. Often negotiation between parent and child will allow for some interesting discussions. Negotiating a curfew will also allow the child to feel her opinion is taken into consideration. Ultimately, the decision needs to be that of the parent. The negotiation of a ‘curfew discretion’ needs to be considered by parents when the child is perhaps participating in something out of the ordinary. There needs to be a degree of give and take around curfew times. While setting a curfew is a powerful and meaningful tool to add to your arsenal, there are some limitations to consider. This is not a means to yield power over a young person, rather something that should enhance your relationship of mutual trust. Simply setting a curfew will also not miraculously change poor behaviour either. It might curb some behaviours, but parenting is so much more complicated than just the issue of being home on time. Going back to the historical reason for curfews in society (that of ensuring safety and control), I think that if one can do anything to ensure the safety of our children in a world where that has become increasingly difficult; we should be doing it. ADvTECH Schools Division, www.advtech.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/03 11:53 PM

FEATURE: DIVORCE & PARENTING PLANS

Parenting plans for divorce and separation

Hettie Scheppel – a registered counsellor, play therapist, and divorce and separation mediator – discusses the challenges and pitfalls for children of contentious and stressful divorces or seperations.

ivorce and separation is a life-altering event for parents and children. The restructuring and reorganisation of roles and responsibilities affect parents as well as children born from the marriage and extended family structures. The effects of divorce or separation on the psychological, emotional and social wellbeing of families is a well-known dynamic. However, each family may have a unique experience of the divorce/ separation process. Families, parents, children and extended family members recover more quickly from the possible negative psychosocial effects of divorce/separation when there were low levels of conflict, a civil coparenting attitude, and effective communication with children about living arrangements, discipline, and where children not only hear but also feel that they are loved by both parents. The successful navigation of the divorce/separation process is severely hampered by high levels of conflict and the extent to which the tug-of-war between parents is prolonged. For children, many factors are at play that may influence whether they move satisfactorily or healthily through the trauma of divorce: • The levels of parents’ conflict before, during and after divorce • The quality of the relationship between parents and the child • Parents’ ability to recognise, acknowledge and respond to their children’s needs – on physical and emotional levels. Children who feel lost in the raging conflict, who struggle to feel connected and to connect with parents, and children who feel that parents cannot remain in control of managing their and their children’s lives through a stormy divorce, may start displaying behaviour that may bring them comfort and a sense of safety and security. This display of strange or worrisome behaviour is often a direct result of children feeling the disconnect from their safe and

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secure base (parents) and thus the resultant problem behaviour manifests to regain a sense of safety and security. Behaviours that may indicate that your child is struggling to navigate through the conflict, or possibly even through an amicable divorce, could include: • Anger outbursts or withdrawal from friends and family • Blaming themselves and feeling guilty for having caused the divorce/separation • Sleeping and/or eating problems, and sometimes regressive behaviour such as the loss of skills previously mastered, such as potty training and needing a comfort toy again • Sudden anxiousness and irrational fears • Fears about who will take care of me • Difficulties that arise at school and in social situations • Fibbing and telling lies These behaviours may manifest differently at children’s different developmental levels.

Mediation before, during and after divorce/separation The Children’s act 38 of 2005 makes due provision for all parties, including legal professionals and other professionals such as social workers, psychologists and other mental healthcare professionals to adhere to what is described in the act as the Best Interest of the Child principle. This requires all parties involved in the process to be mindful of, and act in, the best interest of the child/children involved in all matters concerning a child. This may seem to be a relatively obvious consideration for most, and most parents believe that they do hold their child’s wellbeing as most important. However, as parents become intertwined in their emotions and the conflict surrounding the divorce, it becomes easy to lose sight of what is truly in the best interest of children during the oftencontentious process of a divorce or separation. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:54 PM

FEATURE: DIVORCE & PARENTING PLANS

Parents often approach a mediator before the divorce is finalised for help pertaining to care and contact of their children. Other issues, such as the division of assets and other financial considerations may also be mediated, depending on the professional’s field of experience and expertise. Most parents approach a mediator after high levels of conflict surrounding issues pertaining to the children bring the divorce/separation process to a grinding halt. In most cases involving minors, where there are concerns regarding parental rights and responsibilities, the case will be referred to the family advocates offices for further investigation. Mediation’s aim is to referee contentious issues to adhere to the Best Interest of the Child principle. By mediating rather than litigating these issues, children are considered during the process and their best interests may be addressed to minimise the emotional load they experience. Mediation also minimises financial strain, which litigation often increases. However, mediation is focused on mediating difficult decisions that arise during highconflict divorce to secure sound decisions regarding all matters relating to the children.

Parenting plans Parents only divorce or separate from one another, they cannot divorce or separate their responsibilities and rights for their children. They remain parents for the rest of their lives and the sooner they can communicate and make joint decisions regarding their children, the sooner the conflict lessens and they can focus on their children’s physical, emotional and psychological needs. Often, parents finalise their divorce/separation with

a minimal arrangement regarding the children. The ‘every second’ weekend and ‘alternative holiday’ arrangement may seem adequate but a parenting plan may be required to address the finer details, depending on your child’s developmental stage. This includes: • Where and with whom the child lives • The child’s maintenance • Contact with the child, with any parties and any other person • The child’s schooling and religious upbringing. Surely arrangements for a three-year old will differ significantly to those for a 14 year old? According to the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, these are the bare minimum issues to be addressed in the parenting plan. Furthermore, a parenting plan cannot be used as a template – it needs to be tailored to the family and the child’s needs. It needs to be reviewed as children progress to new developmental levels and as parents adjust to new life stages. Clearly, these matters mentioned will give rise to many more questions regarding the child – What happens if the primary residence parent decides to move to another province? What exactly does maintenance of the child entail? Exactly who may have contact with the child and, if someone may not, why not and until when? Which school will the child attend, the same or another? Who decides how decision will be made? What about a new partner, how will this person be introduced and when may be the best time for your child? There are many questions that need to be explored and answered to produce a workable plan for both parents and, more importantly, to address matters concerning a child.

Hettie Scheppel is a qualified registered counsellor, playtherapist, and divorce and separation mediator. She’s worked with families and children at a community level since 2004, and is the senior operations consultant for the Counselling@ NGO. Hettie is the founder of the Counselling & Mediation Centre in Pretoria, which provides counselling and mediation services for families, parents, individuals and children before, during and post-divorce. They also provide professional supervision services when required. She and her team work closely with legal professionals specialising in family law and other social services professionals to offer fullycomprehensive support services to everyone involved in the divorce and separation process. For more information, visit www.candmcentre.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/03 11:57 PM

Feature: HOME CARE

Home invasion:

The scourge of the

bed bug

As bed bugs’ tolerance to pesticides increases, more people are discovering that they’ve been overrun by these tiny home invaders.

ere’s what you need to know to ensure your family gets a good night’s sleep:

Know thy enemy Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that grow to about 5mm in length. They spread through clothing, baggage and other belongings, hitching rides when you return home from the shops, office, school, or a hotel stay. Once through the door, bed bugs rapidly set up home in the seams of mattresses, bed bases, and behind headboards. Come nightfall, your invaders head out on raids with one target in mind: you and your family. If left to their own devices, bed bugs will expand their territory, travelling from room to room, making new homes in your couches, carpets and cupboards. Don’t think that having a clean home makes you immune from the threat. Bed bugs are equally happy in clean and dirty homes, and have even been found in brand new mattresses.

Signs of invasion The first sign is usually waking up with itchy red welts on your skin, often in small clusters or a rough line. However, before raising the alarm, ensure these are bed bug bites – tell-tale signs of bed bugs include blood spots on sheets and pillows; dark brown or black smears of excrement; piles of droppings on hard surfaces; egg shells and shed skins; and a musty, unpleasant smell.

Declaring war Steps to take when declaring war on bed bugs: 1. Wash bedding, curtains and clothing on the hottest wash possible, and dry them on high in the tumble dryer for at least 30 minutes.

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2. Anything that can’t be washed (shoes, stuffed animals) should be put into a pillow case and tumble dried on high for at least 30 minutes. 3. Dry-scrub the affected mattress with a stiff brush, working into the seams to remove the bugs and their eggs. 4. Check the base set and lift the fabric cover to check the bugs aren’t living in the wooden frame. 5. Vacuum the mattress, base set and carpet thoroughly. Discard the vacuum cleaner contents in a sealed bag in your outside rubbish. 6. Inspect the rest of the room carefully – under bedside tables, in bedside lamps, under rugs, and in plug outlets. They may also have spread to your cupboards. 7. Encase mattresses in bed bug covers, such as the Buglock® Plus from Protect-a-Bed, to kill bugs within the mattress and prevent future infestations. The Buglock Plus cover completely encases the mattress in an impenetrable barrier that ensures resident bugs cannot leave the mattress to feed and new bed bugs cannot enter the mattress to breed. 8. Repair cracks in walls and fill gaps around skirting boards to minimise places where bed bugs can hide. Remove clutter from the room, especially under the bed. 9. Total eradication usually requires treatment with an insecticide. Only use products made specifically for killing bed bugs, or for use on bedding and mattresses. Always follow the safety instructions carefully. If all else fails, get the professionals in. For more information, visit www.protectabed.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/03 11:58 PM

FEATURE: HOME CARE

Targeting termites

Why are termites a problem, what should you be looking out for, and how do you prevent them from invading the wood in your home?

ermites are a species of wood-boring insects that attack the wood in your home, weakening its structure. Even properties built primarily of brick can still suffer from termite damage because of wooden structural supports. An infestation can be hard to spot. Termites live underground and eat away at wood from the inside. Their damage can run into hundreds of thousands of Rands as they can steadily eat away at your home’s structure for years without any signs to alert you to the potential damage. When you consider that untreated termite damage may cause your house to become structurally unstable, it’s no wonder that termite damage is so costly, and that control is so important. Signs of termites include termite swarms, mud tubes and piles of discarded wings. Termites need two things to survive: wood and moisture. Minimising access to both is a good start. While it’s always best to get a professional pest control company in to survey for termites, Rentokil’s advice is to keep an eye on wood that directly touches soil, giving termites easy access to your property. When checking for signs of termites, inspect fence posts, trellises or landscaping ties; firewood stacked against the house; mulch touching the house; structural supports; and wood debris buried in the soil. A small leak can create perfect moisture conditions for termites. Try to fix leaky taps and gutters that leave water near the foundation, and insufficient ventilation in crawl spaces. If you even suspect you may have a termite problem, call in the professionals. For more information, visit www.rentokil.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/04 12:20 PM

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2017/04/03 11:59 PM

FEATURE: ON THE MOVE

Photo credit: Maxi-Cosi South Africa

Choosing the correct

car seat

Nearly 40 people die on South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roads every day, and about 10% of these are children. The statistics are so dire that, in May 2015, it became illegal for children under the age of three to be unrestrained while travelling in a car.

ith roads becoming increasinly busy, car accidents are inevitably also more prevalent. In the event of an accident, the most effective measures to vehicle drivers and passengers are seat belts and proper child restraints, or car seats for the little ones. According to Arrive Alive, seat belts and child restraints are secondary safety devices, designed primarily to prevent or minimise injury to vehicle occupants during a crash. The job of seat belts and child restraints is to reduce the risk of contact with the interior of the vehicle or reduce the severity of injuries if this occurs; to distribute the forces of a crash over the strongest parts of the human body; prevent the occupant from being ejected from the vehicle in an impact; and prevent injury to other occupants www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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(for example in a frontal crash, unbelted rear-seated passengers can be catapulted forward and hit other occupants). Arrive Alive also advises that infants and children need child restraint systems that accommodates their height and weight, and can adapt to cope with the different stages of their development. The safest place for children under the age of 12 is in the back seat, properly restrained in an approved child safety seat, and away from airbags.

Choosing the right restraint There are many different restraints but the determining factor should be your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific needs, which includes height, weight and purpose. It is also important that child restraints are used

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FEATURE: ON THE MOVE correctly. If a child is restrained in the wrong system for his height or weight, or the straps or harnesses are not adequately secured or entirely left undone, it will place the child at an increased risk of both fatal and non-fatal injuries. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing a restraint and placing your child in it. Birth to one year – Never hold your child in your arms or share your seat belt with your child. Adults holding children in their arms provides absolutely no protection in the event of an accident. In a crash at a speed of 50km/h, body weight is increased by around 30 times. For example, a child weighing approximately 6kg turns into a projectile weighing 180kg. The strength of the impact is equal to falling three storeys. In a crash, you won’t be able to hold on to your child and he may either be thrown around or out of the vehicle. The safest way for an infant to travel in a vehicle is in the rear facing position. A rearfacing child restraint system (sometimes called an infant carrier) provides the best protection for infants until they are 80cm or 15 months old. Age one to four – The bone forming process is not complete until the age of six or seven, and throughout childhood a child’s skull remains less strong than that of an adult. A restraint system needs to limit forward head movement in a frontal impact and provide protection from intrusion in a side impact. A child restraint should distribute the crash

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing a restraint and placing your child in it.” forces over as wide an area as possible. Belts and harnesses need to fit well and be properly positioned as designed by the manufacturer. The restraint system should also provide protection from contact with the vehicle interior in both front and side impacts. The best type of child restraint for young children is the child safety seat. The integral harness secures the child and spreads the crash forces over a wide area. This seat is designed to accommodate a child up to 105cm or a maximum of 18kg. Age four to 12 – Booster seats are designed from 105cm or 15kg to 1.5m or 36kg. A booster seat can improve the seat belt fit when your child is too big for a Group 1 Seat and too short for a car seat belt. As a general guide, buy a rigid booster seat with a back, side wings and a sash guide to keep the seat belt in place. Some 45% of car accidents are from the side, therefore it is important to have a booster seat with a back and side wings. Children should continue to use a booster seat until the lap and diagonal belts in the car fit properly. Cars are designed for adults over 1.5m tall and it is our responsibility to keep our children in a restraint system until they are this height. Booster seats raise the child’s seating position so that the adult seat belt lies properly across the chest, crossing diagonally at the child’s shoulder rather than the neck, and low across the pelvis. If the adult belt is too high across the stomach, serious internal injury could result in a crash or the child could submarine under the seat belt. Additionally, a booster seat has a back to it that provides some protection in a side impact. Once your child is 1.5m tall, he may use a seat belt. However, the seat belt must fit your child correctly – the lap belt is low over the bony part of the hips (not the stomach) and the sash does not touch their face or neck when all slack is removed.

Nearly 40 people die on South Africa’s roads every day, and about 10% of these are children.”

Proper use of child restraints Photo credit: Maxi-Cosi South Africa

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Statistically it has been proven that even though children are in child restraints, there is still an increase in the number of injuries and fatalities. The contributing factors are: • Incorrect installation of car restraints • Incorrect use of child restraints • Incorrect age of child to the relevant child restraint. Even though a child restraint has been designed to reduce injuries or eliminate fatalities in a collision, it is incumbent on the user or parent to ensure the proper use of the child restraint. For more advice, visit Arrive Alive’s highlyinformative website at www.arrivealive.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:01 AM

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2017/04/04 12:01 AM

PERSONAL CARE: ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

Wrinkle warriors Dr Ian Webster, a specialist dermatologist and founder of Dermastore®, explains the importance of some of the topical wrinkle warriors, and how they fight against skin ageing.

‘T

o be or not to be, that is the question?’ Apologies to Shakespeare for borrowing this famous line but this is the perfect way to describe the two different types of people who view skin ageing, and wrinkles in particular, in a completely different way.

To be wrinkled or not to be wrinkled? There are the group of people who proudly announce that they still wash their faces with ordinary bath soap and moisturise with the cheapest cream plucked off

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the supermarket shelf! They also mutter about how they couldn’t be bothered with sunscreen. Believe me, this isn’t even just the au-natural types – it’s usually those who just don’t see the point because they accept that wrinkles are part of the ageing process and leave it at that. Everyone has a choice and we respect it. The other group is the opposite – they know and love the power of an active ingredient and understand just what significant changes these can make to their skin. They pore over product websites, read the latest trends on skin health, and follow legions of bloggers writing about skin care. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:02 AM

PERSONAL CARE: ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

Sunscreen is the first line of defence in the fight against skin ageing, which includes wrinkles.”

elastin, leading to accelerated skin ageing. Daily use of an antioxidant helps to neutralise the free radicals and provides the skin with a protective armour against environmental challenges.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

The topical wrinkle warriors include the following:

Alpha Hydroxy Acids are potent exfoliators that break the glue-like bond between the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, revealing the youthful, fresh skin below. AHAs are the disciplinarians in the troops as they encourage skin to revert to its more youthful behaviour of regular cellular turnover, which in turn gives the skin a glow and radiance. As the skin grows older, the cellular turnover slows and causes a buildup of dry, dead skin cells that make the skin dull and lifeless. A little help from a friend like AHA can go a long way.

Sun protection

Peptides

What are the wrinkle warriors? Sunscreen is the first line of defence in the fight against skin ageing, which includes wrinkles. Without this precious product in your arsenal of weapons your battle will be fruitless. It protects the skin from cancer and premature ageing by absorbing or deflecting dangerous UV rays, depending on whether you use a chemical or physical sunblock. The sun is a powerful opponent and takes no prisoners on unprotected skin.

Retinol This powerful anti-ageing ingredient is still considered the gold standard of anti-ageing by dermatologists worldwide. You could say it is the Bazooka in the fight against wrinkles. This wrinkle warrior reduces fine lines and wrinkles, it lightens brown marks, evens out skin tone, and gives the skin a radiance. Most importantly, Retinol boosts collagen and elastin production and it stimulates cellular repair at a very deep level to give lasting and meaningful results.

Antioxidants Bring in the troops – antioxidants are the brave and fearless soldiers who take on the fight against mayhem-causing free radicals. Their brief – to prevent and repair. Free radicals destroy DNA, collagen and

Peptides are a chain of amino acids – the building blocks of proteins – and can stimulate fibroblasts, which are a precursor to collagen. In other words, they signal the skin to create collagen, which is essential in the fight against skin ageing and wrinkles in particular. Peptides can be viewed as part of a tactical response squad and are often found in multi-ingredient formulations. Certain peptides, such as Matrixyl 3000, help to repair photo-damaged skin and a defragmented collagen network. This helps to improve the skin matrix which is essentially the skin’s ‘mattress’ – a plumped up matrix helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

Moisturisers Whether you use a cream moisturiser or a serum hydrator, all ageing skin with its accompanying dryness and dehydration needs moisture. Moisturisers are the support troops that not only hydrate the skin but also help to keep the skin barrier function intact. Without a good-quality moisturiser, the skin can be vulnerable with an impaired barrier function, making it more susceptible to ageing. Good quality moisturisers that contain anti-ageing ingredients benefit the skin greatly, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Photo credit: Dermastore

Dr Ian Webster is a Cape-based dermatologist who has been in private practice for 24 years. He studied both his undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital. He spent four years studying his speciality of dermatology. During his registrar training in dermatology, he met a Professor from Harvard University, a world authority in laser treatments, who trained him in this specialised field. He invited Dr Ian Webster to Boston, USA, to further his training after he completed his dermatological studies. For more information, visit www.dermastore.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/04 12:03 AM

PERSONAL CARE: ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

An ageless appearance

in an ageing world

In today’s fast-paced world, many factors threaten the biggest organ in the body – your skin. To prevent premature ageing, you need to know what these are and how to counter them to avert unnecessary damage to your skin. The sun Did you know that UV exposure causes 80% of skin ageing? This alone should motivate you to apply SPF sun protection each morning before you apply your make-up. And don’t forget your hands – they will show your true age so apply the excess SPF sun protection, as you would a hand cream, after you have applied your sunscreen to your face.

Smoking and alcohol

Photo credit: Annique

With smoking and excessive drinking, you end up with fine lines and wrinkles that can add up to ten years to your face. If you are a smoker, apply a product such as Annique’s Forever Young Eye Therapy around your eyes and lips twice a day. Eye Therapy is food for your delicate skin. It amplifies collagen type III around the eyes where the first signs of ageing occur. Also, take a daily vitamin C supplement, such as Annique’s Forever Healthy OptiC, to help build the skin’s collagen structures.

Environmental factors South Africa’s harsh climatic conditions can play havoc with our skin. Winter dries it out and summer gets quite demanding with its stinging heat. Ensure your skincare products specifically meet our local weather conditions, and supplement with a good multivitamin and probiotic.

Lifestyle choices Recent studies suggest that our lifestyle choices have a major impact on how our skin ages, and researchers advise always using sunscreen and keeping skin hydrated. Studies also found that women who are positive are 30% more likely to age better, meaning that changing your outlook on life might just change how you age. Other factors that contribute to premature ageing include an unhealthy diet, a lack of sleep, and a negligent skincare routine. As we age, our skin becomes drier, thinner, sags, and age spots make an appearance. However, by simply cleansing, moisturising and applying SPF sun protection regularly, you are already a few steps ahead of premature ageing. To increase the benefits of sunscreen and moisturiser, add serums, and exfoliating and facial masks to your daily skincare routine.

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The antioxidant approach By investing in the right skincare products you can keep free radicals at bay, especially if you use products containing antioxidants. Antioxidants limit their damage and plump up the skin for a more youthful appearance. Rooibos (found in all of Annique’s products) is well known for being rich in antioxidants and is ideally suited to sensitive skin. Annique’s Forever Young range is specifically designed to slow down the ageing process and to promote a youthful appearance. Its renowned products include Youth Boost and Revitalising Cream, the ultimate anti-ageing product that contains a potent plant-based active ingredient, VNA10+, extracted from the Mexican ‘Skin Tree’. Annique’s Anti-Ageing Serum includes groundbreaking plant stem cells that are crucial in the fight against ageing. Plant stem cells don’t replace skin stem cells but they closely mimic them. They protect skin cells so they can live longer, and activate them to enhance their performance. For more information, visit www.annique.com. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:07 AM

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2017/04/04 12:07 AM

HEALTH: SKINCARE

Photo credit: Epi-Max

Winter care for children’s skin A leading dermatologist, Dr Hetesh Pitamber, answers some of the most pressing questions regarding dry skin conditions.

nside the womb your baby’s skin is perfectly protected from outside dangers but after birth the skin’s protective barrier takes more than a decade to mature before it optimally protects your child. The younger your child, the greater the risk of dry skin and skin sensitivity. Three of the most common dry skin conditions in children are: Winter skin – caused by exposure to harsh elements and air conditioning that quickly dries out young, vulnerable skin. You’ll notice dry, flaky patches that are itchy and irritating to your child. Eczema or atopic dermatitis – a red rash that most commonly occurs in the first few years of a child’s life. Eczema patches are very itchy, sore and cause discomfort. Psoriasis – outbreaks that occur when skin cells are produced and shed more quickly than normal. This causes a build-up of skin patches that are red, thick and scaly, and covered in white, flaky, dry skin. With the winter months fast approaching, leading dermatologist, Dr Hetesh Pitamber, answers some of the most pressing questions regarding dry skin conditions.

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How does our skin change during winter? Freezing temperatures, low humidity, and heaters can leave your skin dry, flaky, and itchy. Everyone needs to protect their skin from drying out in the winter. If you have a skin condition such as eczema, you should step up your routine to keep your skin moisturised. What should we do differently to keep our skin healthy during winter? • Add humidity to your home. Portable humidifiers or those that work with your heating system put moisture back into the air that will be absorbed by your skin. • Use moisturisers and emollients. Ointments seal water in the skin and preserve moisture better when the humidity is low. • Avoid long baths or showers. Frequent bathing or hot showers or baths can strip your skin of natural oils. • Use warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap or moisturising body wash. Limit your showers or baths to no more than 10 minutes, pat dry, and moisturise while your skin is still damp. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:08 AM

HEALTH: SKINCARE Is eczema better or worse during winter months, and why? Worse. Low temperatures and a lack of humidity increase the risk of eczema flares because of dryness and cracking skin, which makes it prone to allergens attacking the skin. This weakens the skin’s protective barrier. What are the main causes of eczema? Our skin has a natural protective barrier that helps lock moisture in and keep irritants and allergens out. When skin begins to dehydrate, the cells lift and flake, weakening the protective barrier. The tiny gaps make it easier for irritants and allergens to penetrate the skin surface, causing irritation and inflammation. The result? Eczema rashes. Eczema is triggered by common irritants and allergens that include: • Food – especially milk, egg, peanut, soy, wheat and fish. About 40% of infants and young children with atopic eczema have food allergies. • Aeroallergens – dust mites, mould, animal dander, pollens and smoke. • Emotional stressors – anxiety, anger, hostility and stress. • Infectious agents – infected skin lesions may also secrete a group of toxins that trigger activation of eczema symptoms. • Others – certain fabrics, antibiotics or scented products. What’s the focus for treating eczema? Treatment should focus on restoring the skin barrier and preventing the itch-scratch cycle. This can be achieved by daily use of emollients. Other treatments to relieve and prevent inflammation and itch include topical corticosteroids, topical immune modulators and antihistamines. Who are the main sufferers of eczema? Eczema tends to run in families where there’s a history of atopic conditions or hayfever and eczema. It is now a disease of public importance, especially regarding its impact on the paediatric population. In developed countries, it is estimated that approximately 10 to 15% of children under the age of five have eczema. What are the biggest mistakes made when treating eczema? Not applying topical moisturisers and other topical treatments as required because of busy school or work routines, or because of the messiness factor of creams and ointments. Also, failure to identify trigger factors that cause eczema flares.

Our skin has a natural protective barrier that helps lock moisture in and keep irritants and allergens out.” www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Moisturising remains the foundation of all skin conditions.” What advice do you give patients suffering from eczema? Although some children outgrow eczema, others continue to have symptoms on and off through adult life. With proper treatment, eczema can often be controlled. Avoid irritants to the skin and other triggers wherever possible. Apply moisturisers and emollients every day to help prevent inflammation from developing. Use other topical treatments as instructed by your doctor when inflammation flares up. Avoid scratchy materials, such as wool. Reduce stress. But most importantly, moisturise your skin adequately with a reputable product as frequently as possible. Moisturising remains the foundation of all skin conditions.

The treatment Epi-max Baby & Junior is a range of all-purpose emollient moisturisers for babies and children that are gentle and mild enough to use from birth. An emollient is a type of body moisturiser formulated with very specific ingredients to add moisture to the skin, strengthen the skin barrier to keep the moisture in, and restore any weak patches to stop irritants from penetrating the surface. The Epi-max range has proven to reduce and combat eczema in a gentle and harmless way. Epi-max is: • Suitable for daily use by the whole family (from birth) • Hypo-allergenic, colourant- and fragrance-free • Suitable to use as a water-soluble soap substitute • Not greasy, just a rich texture when applied • Not tested on animals • Offered in a range of conveniently-sized packs • Well priced compared to international products with similar ingredients and benefits The Epi-max Baby & Junior product range can be found at leading pharmacies. The 400g tub is a family favourite with a distinctive lilac lid that makes it easy to spot in a nappy bag. The 100g tube is convenient for your handbag, nappy bag or cubby hole. It’s also easy to pop into your child’s school bag for reapplication if needed. The 250ml bathe is a water-soluble liquid emollient. Pour a few drops into bath water to provide all-over hydration. The 450ml lotion pump bottle is a lightweight version of the cream and is ideal for the bathroom or nursery. It’s the perfect option for children who are a little older and need to apply it by themselves.

Did you know? The Epi-max Baby & Junior range has won the title of Product of the Year 2017 in the Baby Care category. Epi-max’s Baby & Junior Lotion has just been relaunched with a new and improved formula that enhances water retention to leave skin feeling soothed, nourished and repaired. For more information, visit www.epimax.co.za.

2017/04/04 12:09 AM

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2017/04/04 12:10 AM

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2017/04/04 12:12 AM

HEALTH: ALLERGIES

Allergy alert Allergic diseases are increasing in first world and lower and middle income countries. In South Africa, a third of the population will suffer from some allergic disease during their life, and 40% of allergy sufferers are children.

ccording to the Allergy Foundation of South Africa, allergies have increased dramatically over the past few decades and we find ourselves in the middle of a possible ‘allergy epidemic’. Allergic diseases are the most common chronic diseases of childhood, and can markedly affect quality of life, learning potential, and can be fatal.

Common allergies Asthma – Asthma is the most common lifethreatening chronic disease of childhood. While it can’t be cured, with regular treatment it can be controlled and symptoms prevented. Asthma causes absenteeism from school through its requirement for regular preventative doctors visits, and unscheduled absenteeism if symptoms occur. It may also limit children’s participation in classroom activities, sports and academic events. Allergic rhinitis – Commonly known as hay fever, this is not a trivial disease and is a major cause of failure to learn. Inadequate control of allergic rhinitis has been proven to reduce school achievement, with sedating antihistamines exacerbating the learning disability. However, treatment with intranasal steroids and second-generation antihistamines can abolish it. Allergic rhinitis occurs in 20 to 30% of the population, and as many as 40% may also have asthma, often undiagnosed. Anaphylaxis – Anaphylaxis is a severe, lifethreatening allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and requires immediate medical attention. It can result in death, and can be caused by exposure to allergens such as food, insect stings, medications and latex, among others.

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Food allergies – A food allergy occurs when the immune system identifies a food protein as dangerous and releases substances into the blood that results in the symptoms of a food allergic reaction. Reactions can vary from mild rashes and swelling to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Children who struggle with both food allergy and asthma are more at risk of a fatal allergic reaction Atopic dermatitis – Atopic eczema is a common, chronic, itchy skin rash that tends to affect people with other allergies such as hay fever and asthma. These children do not sleep well at night and may not focus optimally at school. Atopic dermatitis sufferers are frequently teased, bullied and excluded from social groups. They suffer physical and emotional consequences resulting in failure to learn to their full potential. Eczema requires frequent regular preventative emollient therapy to achieve optimal control. Insect stings and bites – Severe, life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to insects are caused by an allergy to the insect venom – most commonly bee venom. The Allergy Foundation of South Africa says that while the exact reasons behind the increase in allergies is unknown, it seems to be related to more westernised lifestyles, change in diet and ‘cleaner’ environments. The variety and types of bugs in our guts (microbiome) seem to have changed over generations, leading to less protection against allergies. Source: Allergy Foundation of South Africa, www.allergyfoundation.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:13 AM

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2017/04/04 12:13 AM

HEALTH: NUTRITION

Homemade organic baby food Dietician, Megan Pentz-Kluyts, explains the difference between organic and conventionallyproduced foodstuffs, and explains how to make your own baby food at home.

esearch shows varying nutritional differences between organic produce and conventionallyproduced foodstuffs. Some research indicates no differences, while others show higher phosphorus levels in organic produce and evidence suggesting higher omega-3 fatty acids in organic milk, as well as higher levels of vitamin C in some organically grown produce. However, organic produce is about much more than just nutrients; it’s about the way crops are grown. Organic produce generally has lower levels of pesticide residues and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, two main reasons why people are attracted to them. In South Africa, legislation for Organic Agriculture is still pending. However, some retailers are stocking organic products that are certified by third party certification bodies recognised at both international and national levels.

Preparing good food Whether organic or not, it’s important to always wash, scrub or peel fruits and vegetables. By doing this, you will help to minimise the amount of pesticides your baby is exposed to. Although organic fruits and vegetables contain fewer pesticide residues than non-organic, the levels of contamination in both are well within safe limits. Begin with local, seasonal, organically grown produce. Peel and pit fruit as necessary. Peel and cook vegetables and hard fruits, such as apples. Preserve the maximum vitamins and minerals by

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steaming, baking or grilling. Be certain that all meats and fish are cooked to proper temperatures. Giving your baby up to two portions of oily fish a week is the best way to give her the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that she needs. Oily fish includes mackerel, salmon, sardines, pilchards and trout. If you’re cooking the same food for the rest of the family, remove your baby’s portion before adding salt and seasonings. As your baby grows and becomes more used to table food, feel free to add seasonings other than salt. All you need is a blender or food processor – although in many cases a fork will do the trick – and keep some empty ice cube trays handy for freezing small portions for future use. At first, puree or mash food thoroughly. You may also add breastmilk or baby’s milk to the puree, both to give it a thinner consistency and to make the flavour more familiar to your baby. Over time, add less liquid and mash the food less to let your baby experience the different textures of food.

Stay safe Be vigilant about sanitation. Clean hands, utensils and countertops. Only portion out what you think you baby will eat and refrigerate or freeze the rest of your delicious, homemade organic baby food. Just bear in mind that giving your baby a varied and nutritious diet is the most important thing, be it organic or not. For more information, call Rialto Foods on +27 021 555 2160/1/2. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:14 AM

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2017/04/04 12:14 AM

HEALTH: NUTRITION

What is free sugar costing our kids? It’s no longer a secret that the vast majority of us are unaware sugar addicts. Modern conveniences in consumables make life easier in the short term, but what about the long-term implications?

report published in 2009 reveals that food addiction is plausible because ‘brain pathways that evolved to respond to natural rewards are also activated by addictive drugs. Sugar releases opioids and dopamine and thus might be expected to have addictive potential.’ Another report published in 2013 indicates that sugar is as, if not more, desirable than addictive drugs such as cocaine. This highlights that ‘sugar and sweetness can induce reward and cravings that are comparable to those induced by addictive drugs’. The impending sugar tax will help to moderate and potentially reduce the average consumption of free sugars (sugar added to food and drinks, and sugar found naturally in honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit juice concentrates). However, it will take a deeper understanding of what we consume to avoid South Africa’s top health issues linked to sugar, among other factors – obesity, diabetes and heart conditions. Although we all lead different lifestyles and have varying metabolic requirements, the UK’s Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) suggests this recommended daily allowance of free sugars: • Children aged four to six should have no more than 19g (5 teaspoons) • Children aged seven to 10 should have no more than 24g (6 teaspoons) • Children aged 11 and older, as well as adults, should have no more than 30g (7 teaspoons) To illustrate what this means, look at some popular beverages, and their approximate free sugar levels, that our children love:

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• 250ml iced tea = 19g (4 teaspoons) • 250ml flavoured drinking yoghurt = 26.8g (5.5 teaspoons) • 330ml cola = 35g or (7 teaspoons) • 330ml ginger beer = 37g (6.5 teaspoons) So how do we reduce the excess sugars from our diets? 1. Become aware, understand that food is medicine and always try to ensure that that all consumables remain as close as possible to their natural state. If sweetening is required, look at healthier options such as fresh fruit or vegetables. 2. Read labels carefully, not all free or added sugars are labelled as sugars, such as agave nectar, corn sweetener, dextrose, honey, corn syrup, sucrose, fructose, glucose and molasses. 3. Limit sugar-added beverages. Try to naturally flavour water or use a SodaStream to make fun, healthier drink options. Their syrups comprise one third of the sugar compared to regular sodas. 4. Reduce your family’s sugar tolerance with a moderated sugar and bolstered wholefood diet. Once your palate adapts to its natural state, consumables high in sugar will taste too sweet. 5. Bake instead of buying treats. These will probably contain less added and highly-synthetic sweeteners, and you naturally sweeten treats using fruits or vegetables. The key to all healthy living is moderation and a balanced diet. Sugar can be enjoyed, just not daily. For more information or fun recipes, visit www.sodastream.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:16 AM

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2017/04/04 12:19 AM

HEALTH: DENTAL

Expecting?

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t neglect your

teeth

Dr Adel Rossouw explains how pregnancy affects oral health.

hile it is a myth that teeth lose calcium leading to tooth loss or decay during pregnancy, there are a lot of changes that occur in your mouth during pregnancy. The primary changes are because of a surge in hormones.

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:21 AM

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HEALTH: DENTAL The high levels of estrogen and progesterone can exaggerate the way your gums react to the bacterialcontaining plaque. If plaque is not removed from your teeth regularly, then you will get gingivitis – an infection in the gums that causes them to become red, swollen and tender, and likely to bleed. Pregnancy gingivitis is the term used for the overreaction of gums to plaque during pregnancy. It occurs in 30 to 100% of pregnant women and can begin as early as two months into the pregnancy. If you already have a gum infection, it will worsen and, if not treated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis – a more serious form of gingivitis. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. Pregnancy tumors are a benign tumor-like growth that develop in the swollen, irritated gums. It is normally painless, red to purple in colour, and can bleed spontaneously. Except for proper oral hygiene, no treatment is indicated except if it becomes uncomfortable and interferes with chewing or brushing. Then it can be surgically removed. The tumor normally disappears a few months after the baby is delivered. Pregnant women can also be more prone to dental decay. The reason for this is twofold. First, morning sickness can cause dental erosion – a chemical or mechano-chemical destruction of tooth material caused by the high acids in your mouth. It is important to neutralise these acids after vomiting. Rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda, dissolved in a cup of water after you’ve vomited. It is also important to first neutralise the acid before you brush your teeth. The second reason is that the pregnancy (and the developing baby) drains your energy, and it is just too much effort to do the proper oral hygiene thing. Neglecting to brush and floss twice a day will cause cavities.

Can you go to the dentist when pregnant? Another myth is to avoid the dentist while you are pregnant. This is because women misunderstand the safety of dental care. When you are planning to grow your family, or are suspecting that you are pregnant, schedule an appointment immediately for a checkup and a good clean. The dentist will assess your oral condition and map out a safe dental plan for the rest of your pregnancy. A visit in your second trimester is also recommended. The dentist will again do a good

There are a lot of changes that occur in your mouth during pregnancy.”

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When you are planning to grow your family, or are suspecting that you are pregnant, schedule an appointment immediately for a checkup and a good clean.” clean and monitor all the changes in your gums. He will also look at the effectiveness of your oral hygiene. Depending on the patient, an appointment can be scheduled in the third trimester. This appointment should be kept short. Frequent visits to the dentist will help with plaque control, which will decrease the irritants in the gums and will decrease the likelihood of developing pregnancy tumors. It will also help to alleviate gum inflammation. Non-emergency treatment can be done throughout your pregnancy, but the best time is between the fourth and sixth month (second trimester). Emergency treatments can also be done in any trimester, but your obstetrician needs to be consulted before any medication can be prescribed. Digital X-ray’s radiation is extremely low, but the dentist will still put a lead apron on your abdomen to minimise the exposure. The local anesthetic injections are also safe for you and your baby.

Can gingivitis effect my baby’s health? Yes, gum infection can affect your developing baby. Studies have shown that there is a link between preterm, low birthweight babies and gingivitis or periodontitis. The excess bacteria in your mouth enters your bloodstream through your bleeding gums and travels to the uterus. In the uterus, a chemical called prostaglandins, is released that can induce premature labour.

How to prevent gum infection • Keep your teeth clean, especially the areas near the gum line. Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and floss once a day. • If brushing causes morning sickness or gagging, then rinse your mouth with water and baking soda. Even over-the-counter rinses containing fluoride can be used. • Good nutrition is very important for healthy gums. Eat a lot of fruit, especially with vitamin A, B, C, and D. Proteins, calcium and phosphorous are also needed for a developing baby’s teeth. • Ensure frequent visits to the dentist to help you with plaque control. For more information, visit www.adelrossouw.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:22 AM

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2017/04/04 12:23 AM

HEALTH: WINTER WOES

What’s causing your

cough? Learn how to know if the culprit of your cough is bacterial or viral.

s irritating as it may be, coughing is the body’s way of ridding the lungs and airways of foreign substances and mucus. Being aware of the cause of your cough will help you treat it and restore health. Bacteria are tiny single-celled organisms, not all of which are bad – there are beneficial bacteria in our bodies that help with essential functions. Viruses are also microscopic beings, but they behave differently to bacteria. Viruses flourish inside a living organism and can live for a brief period outside their host – such as hovering in the air after someone coughs. However, to multiply they need to settle inside a host.

Viral versus bacterial Viral coughs are caused by viruses that inflame the throat or lungs and can last up to three weeks without treatment. However, the body can fight the infection if the immune system is strong enough. Viral coughs develop over a day or two and typically worsen after two to three days. They affect the throat (larynx), main airway (trachea), or the airways leading into the lungs (bronchi) – and can lead to laryngitis, tracheitis, or bronchitis. Bacterial coughs mainly attack the upper respiratory tract – the nose, throat and bronchi. A bacterial cough usually results in a chest infection, whooping cough or – in extreme cases – tuberculosis (TB) or pneumonia. Bacterial infections can usually be identified with a doctor’s test such as a throat test to check for the streptococcus bacteria.

What to look out for Most viral coughs clear with ease – and a little help from an effective cough medication. However,

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a secondary infection with germs (bacteria) can develop, which leads to more serious conditions such as pneumonia. It’s also easy to confuse other causes of a cough (asthma) with a viral infection. It’s advisable to see a doctor if you have high temperature, chest pains or consistently severe headaches. Monitor breathing patterns and if you cough up blood and the cough persists, go to the doctor immediately.

Tackling coughs with treatment Many people resort to antibiotics when they have an infection. However, antibiotics won’t work to ease a cough caused by a virus. They may even make symptoms worse, as they cause side-effects like diarrhoea and rashes. If you test positive for a bacterial throat or lung infection, your doctor will usually treat it with antibiotics, which inhibit the growth of bacteria. However, be weary of antibiotics in killing bacteria completely as they can also destroy natural bodily mechanisms that protect the body from diseases – resulting in a compromised immune. Also, exercise caution in using any over-thecounter cough and cold medicine. There’s no evidence they work and they can cause side effects such as allergic reactions, sleep interference or hallucinations. It’s important to use safe cough syrups such as Prospan, which can relieve coughs caused by a virus or bacteria, without any harmful ingredients. For more information about the different types of coughs and how to treat them, visit http://mycough.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:27 AM

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2017/04/04 12:27 AM

Al-Nisa Maternity Home

We are a private Midwife Obstetric Birthing Unit keen to serve women with low-risk pregnancies who seek a holistic, supportive, women only environment. Services we offer (Kindly visit our website for prices): • Antenatal Care • Postnatal care • Immunuzation & Vaccines • Breastfeeding Assistance • Delivery

• Phototherapy (for Jaundice)

• Antenatal Classes

• Family Planning

• Doula support

• Papsmears, Breast Screenings

• Yoga classes

• Ultrasounds

• Dietician consultant

Al-Nisa Maternity Home 7 Rokeby Road, Rondebosch East / Crawford Tel: (021) 696 8892 • Fax (021) 696 8847 Email: info@alnisamaternityhome.co.za / reception@alnisamaternityhome.co.za

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2017/04/04 12:28 AM

HEALTH: BROKEN BONES

Bone fractures in kids Gavin Sutton, COO at Be Safe Paramedical South Africa, explains why kids are not just smaller versions of adults, the difference between children’s and adult’s bones, the different types of fractures, and what to do when your child fractures a bone. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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ost kids are fearless. I know this from my experiences as a dad and even more so as a paramedic – and it’s as a paramedic that I get to see first-hand all the pickles kids manage to get themselves into. I’ve been to so many cases where all I could do was simply smile and have a little giggle while grabbing our kit from the ambulance. The best part of it is listening to them trying to explain it all away. I have heard some very impressive stories of goblins, extremely large birds, and running shoes that miraculously transform you into Spiderman and allow you to climb to the highest branch of a tree. Once at the top of the tree though, the little thing called gravity kicks in and Spiderman falls. Believe it or not, even Spiderman can break a leg. Once the initial drama and tongue-lashing from mom or dad has abated, then comes the tricky part of having to immobilise the leg broken in the fall. So, moms and dads, here’s something to remember for the future – when your kid does not want to take that nasty tasting health tonic that most adults wouldn’t take without a grimace, never go with, ‘then we’ll have to call an ambulance’. As a paramedic, one of the toughest parts of our work is convincing a patient that the care we are about to provide is necessary. It’s hard work convincing adults, and nearly impossible convincing a four-year-old when

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HEALTH: BROKEN BONES he believes we have finally arrived to take him away because he didn’t want to take his cringe-worthy health tonic. If that’s what he believes, then all the cool things he ever thought about paramedics would disappear and we would become public enemy number one. Poof! Hero to zero just like that. So, as I always say, what’s the point in all the studying, hard work and long nightshifts if kids are not going to think paramedics are cool? Right?

Kids are not smaller versions of adults…

What’s the difference between kid’s and adult’s bones? For a start, adults’ bones have stopped growing and the areas in the bone where growth occurred (growth plates) are fused. If adults fracture a growth plate it doesn’t cause any special challenges besides that the bone has a break. However, kids’ growth plates are active and open, and their bones are a

Kids are certainly not smaller versions of adults and need to be assessed and managed very differently.” 62

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Photo credit: OpenStax College

‘Children are simply smaller versions of adults’, was a phrase commonly used in the late 80s when I first joined the Emergency Medical Services. We know now that nothing could be further from the truth. Kids are certainly not smaller versions of adults and need to be assessed and managed very differently. We all recognise that there are some obvious differences between kids and adults – size, circulating blood volume, metabolic rate, and proportionally larger head (in babies) are those we most often think about. However, there are others that are equally important. For one, when treating an adult’s fractured limb we are treating a bone that is already fully developed. But with children, we must remember that the bone is still doing a great deal of growing. Therefore, fracture location, treatment and post-injury rehabilitation needs to be very carefully planned. As a child’s motor and sensory skills develop they become more and more adventurous. We run around child-proofing our homes as best we can by hiding ladders, covering up electrical sockets, and making dangerous areas as inaccessible as possible. But guess what? Yup, you’ve got it, those Spidermantransforming shoes will kick in and they will find a way around the lack of a ladder to get up into that tree all the same. With motor skills development comes the inevitable fall, fractured leg or arm, and lesson learnt.

lot more flexible than those of adults. Because of this unique anatomy, we see fracture patterns in children that we don’t see in adults. We also know that growth plate fractures that are not managed appropriately in children may result in numerous complications, many of which may only be identified around nine months after the injury occurred. For this reason, it is suggested that all suspected fractures in children be thoroughly assessed at a hospital so that the most appropriate treatment plan can begin without delay. Fortunately, we also know that kids’ bones heal a great deal faster and more completely than adults, which makes all the difference.

Types of fractures Depending on the amount of force involved and, of course, the mechanism that caused the injury, fractures can present in various forms: • An open fracture occurs when the sharp end of a broken bone penetrates through the skin and is visible externally. Besides the actual fracture, there is the added risk of infection. It is a frightful sight and understandably sends many parents into a complete panic. • A closed fracture is where neither of the fractured bone ends penetrate through the skin. Closed fractures range from the two bone ends remaining relatively aligned to the bone ends being significantly displaced. • A greenstick fracture refers to one side of the bone breaking while the other side bends but stays intact. The name stems from what happens when you try to snap a green twig from a tree. It tends to splinter on one side and bend on the other. This type of fracture is quite common for kids under the age of 10. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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HEALTH: BROKEN BONES • A comminuted fracture is where several breaks result in a number of small bone fragments between two large segments.

Oh gosh, it’s broken! What now? Activate the Emergency Medical Services without delay. Fractures can be quite tricky to manage, even in a home setting. One of the main priorities is to limit further movement of the fracture site or limb. Movement may result in the sharp ends of a fractured bone coming into contact with blood vessels or nerves, which of course would further complicate the injury. Furthermore, if you are faced with an open fracture, never try to push the bone end back through the wound as this may cause damage to veins and arteries that could result in severe bleeding. If you see active external bleeding, apply direct pressure over the wound with a sterile gauze pad from your home first aid kit. Hold this in place until help arrives. Never try to forcefully straighten a limb that is bent or angulated. Paramedics are trained to assess circulation through the limb and also have access to a range of splints that will help achieve this. If you have attended first aid training, and have an understanding of basic splinting techniques, a good splint to keep in your first aid kit is the EVA splint. It is basically an aluminium sheet sandwiched between two pieces of foam and is supplied in a compact roll. It can be easily bent and shaped to conform to a fractured limb and is simply held in place with a bandage wrap.

Fractures can be quite tricky to manage, even in a home setting.”

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Something else to bear in mind – it is important not to give your little one anything to eat or drink following the accident. This is just a safety precaution should he require surgery. Fortunately, most fractures in kids heal very well with just a plaster cast and seldom require surgical intervention. Remember, if you are unsure, always activate the Emergency Medical Services. Before you do, take a deep breath, relax and know that help is just around the corner. It will be stressful but you can rest assured that your little Spiderman will be up and about in no time and heading back up that tree. Gavin is a paramedic and previous head of training for the Western Cape Emergency Medical Services. He is currently the chief operating officer at Be Safe Paramedical South Africa. www.be-safe.co.za

Photo credit: Gavin Sutton

It’s not always that easy to tell if a bone is fractured. This is especially true if your child is too young to describe what he is feeling. However, there are a number of external signs and symptoms that give us a good indication that a bone may have a fracture. • Pain at the injury site that gets worse when the limb is moved or touched. • Visible swelling or discoloration of the skin in the area of the suspected fracture. • Bone end seen penetrating through the skin. • False motion. This is where you see bending or movement in an extremity where you know there is no joint. • Deformity of the limb, which can be quite profound in appearance. If you are not sure, rather consider that a fracture is present until it is ruled out by a healthcare professional.

Photo credit: Sterngirl Explorer

How will I know if a bone has fractured?

2017/04/04 12:30 AM

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2017/04/04 12:30 AM

ADVERTORIAL: HOMESCHOOLING

Homeschool your child Homeschooling has been legal in South Africa since 1996 and in recent years there has been a marked increase in the number of parents choosing to homeschool their children.

arents want the best for their children, especially when it comes to education. Increasingly crowded classrooms, rising school fees, bullying, and a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive needs are all concerns that many parents share. Homeschooling provides a viable alternative to mainstream schooling. The costs are often lower, the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s safety is more easily monitored, and children receive the valuable oneon-one attention that they often need to help them overcome difficulties. Curriculum providers offer the structure that parents often crave when transitioning from a mainstream school. They supply the learning material for the year and a formal report for each grade, which provides the option of returning to a mainstream school in the

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future. Using a structured curriculum, developed by qualified teachers offers peace of mind that your child is getting a good education. Homeschooling can take many forms and does not have to be done by the parents themselves. Once you have the curriculum, you can teach your child yourself, employ a tutor to come to your house or send them to a tutor centre for tuition. The one-on-one attention and opportunity to work at their own pace often means that homeschooled children receive a higher standard of education than they would at their local school. Whatever the initial reason, more and more parents are finding homeschooling to be a viable alternative to mainstream schooling.

2017/04/04 12:31 AM

EDUCATION: BULLYING

Bully-proof your child By Dr Claire Symington, educational psychologist and head of the Academic Enrichment Centre at Southdowns College Preparatory

The topic of bullying has received increasing media coverage over the past few years, which has strengthened parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; resolute efforts to protect their children from the long-term and often traumatic consequences of bullying.

o help parents gain a better understanding of the role that they can play in bully-proofing their child, it is important to differentiate between bullying and inappropriate behaviours. Bullying is the intentional and repetitive occurrence of behaviour that is expected to cause harm to others through words, physical force, social isolation and/or technology and social media. On the other hand, nasty or mean behaviour constitutes thoughtless actions that may be a once-off scoff or an accidental bump.

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By evaluating the severity and frequency of the behaviour (while keeping the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s developmental phase in mind), parents are in a better position to brainstorm possible responses with their child.

Remain calm Although it is important that you praise your child for reporting a bullying incident, it is even more important that your response is both understanding and proactive. Too many children are afraid of speaking www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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EDUCATION: BULLYING as he doesn’t want to upset you any further. Parents should also avoid projecting their own memories of being bullied onto the situation and rather stay focused on dealing with the one at hand. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, you may also consider whether it constitutes an escalated response that demands taking matters into your own hands or whether it still leaves room for a teachable moment.

Create opportunities to talk Coaching your child to deal with social situations that require him to stand up for himself is the first step to bully-proofing him. Creating opportunities to talk about bullying and dealing with different personalities encourages him to open up to you. This conversation could include topics about the difference between being a tattletale and reporting an incident, the role of the victim and the bystander, as well as meanness versus bullying. Be on the look-out for articles in the media or a storyline in a television show to introduce the topic from time to time. It is also never too early to discuss the types of verbal and non-verbal messages they can send to bullies that will help to safeguard them. By role playing and re-enforcing assertive responses such as the effective use of eye contact, using their tone of voice and standing their ground, your children are less likely to become targets. Another useful technique is to teach them ‘the hand of five’, which suggests that there are five steps to dealing with a potentially bullying situation: 1. Avoiding the person 2. Ignoring them 3. Walking away 4. Telling them to stop 5. Telling a teacher/parent

Reporting channels

up because they think that it may make the situation worse – as a parent you must be cognisant of their fears while assuring them that action still needs to be taken. You should therefore work with your child to help them deal with untoward or extreme behaviours. Although self-restraint may be the furthest thing from your mind when your child tells you that someone has hurt them, it is nonetheless more conducive to remain calm. Getting angry while your child is telling you about the experience may cause him to shut down www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Your child should also have a clear understanding of the channels they can follow to report a bully. It may therefore be helpful to discuss the school’s anti-bullying policy with them – which is also likely to include the school’s preferred way for parents to address incidents that occurred at school. Finding a trusted person to confide in at your child’s school will help you to gain a better perspective of the situation and hopefully minimise the chances of retaliation. Standing up against bullies starts long before your child reports being bullied. It starts with incentives to build your child’s self-esteem by encouraging problem-solving behaviours, establishing open lines of communication and teaching social skills such as assertiveness. It also means that you should heed these words by Shannon L Adler: ‘The most important gift you can give your children is the importance of standing up to injustice. Children will remember moments spent with you. However, it isn’t togetherness that creates humane parents and righteous kids. It is the example of integrity that a parent sets and the ongoing lessons they teach about compassion toward others throughout their lives. A good father or mother teaches their children that cruelty is not something you cause or ignore, rather it is the moment you suit up for war.’ ADvTECH Schools Division, www.advtech.co.za.

2017/04/04 12:33 AM

EDUCATION: DIGITAL SAFETY

Safety online Children and even teens do not yet fully understand the content and the consequences of being exposed to depictions of a sexual nature. Witnessing sexual acts and nudity is harmful to them, says Nolene Rust, a qualified forensic social worker and a registered counsellor specialising in play therapy.

he definition of pornography is broadly accepted as, ‘the visual depiction of an act of sexual nature with the intention to cause/arouse sexual interest’. Pornography is seen by law as being harmful for children under the age of 18 as they are still in their formative years, developing cognitively, sexually, morally and emotionally. Research and statistics show that the average consumer of pornography in South Africa is between the ages of 12 and 17 years. Added to this, it is found

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that most teenagers spend at least six hours a day actively using electronic media, while 7.5 hours per day are spent engaging in ‘screentime‘. There are 4.2 million pornographic websites online, of which roughly 25% are accessed daily – 30 million views every minute. According to recent UK and US studies, the average age by which a child is exposed to pornography online is 10 and, when it comes to sex education, more than half of teenagers admit to getting their information from the internet. Between 2005 and 2015, the demand for www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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EDUCATION: DIGITAL SAFETY and searches of teenage pornography tripled. Adding to these shocking statistics, current figures reveal that more than 60% of child sexual abuse is committed by other children. We should not only be aware of our child‘s exposure to the internet, but also be vigilantly knowledgeable about the dangers surrounding technology. Some of the dangers involved with exposure to pornography are obvious, while others are less so. Firstly, pornography exposes children and teens to the world of pedophilia, increasing their vulnerability for abuse through a process called grooming. It is a known fact that offenders use pornography to desensitise their victims to groom them for sexual abuse. Further, exposure normalises harmful sexual behaviour, teaching youngsters what bahaviour is expected of them and what is, by worldly standards, acceptable to engage in. There are also logical cognitive, emotional and social implications detemined by changes in brain functioning brought on by exposure to pornography. Interestingly (and shockingly) the effect of exposure to pornography in the brain is exactly the same as with drugs – it affects the pleasure-seeking centre of the brain, altering mood states. Pornography is highly addictive, probing the user to craving more and more because of the effect it has on the limbic structures (mood) of the brain. Any pedophile will testify to these effects of pornography and that pornography is more often than not the gateway for sexual crimes and offenses.

We should not only be aware of our children’s exposure to the internet, but also be vigilantly knowledgeable about the dangers surrounding technology.”

Reasearch and statistics show that the average consumer of pornography in South Africa is between the ages of 12 and 17 years.” Access and what to do So, where do our children get access to pornography? Gone are the days where we should only be mindful of exposure to magazines. Any electronic device (that your child owns or has access to), bill boards, smartphones, tablets, ipads – the list goes on – are a potential threat. What is a concerned parent to do? It is not useful to keep our children and teens from any form of electronics because you are not with them 24 hours a day to monitor them. Perhaps teaching them technologic values and etiquette, or netiquette, and also being informed about the latest technology yourself is the way to go. Your child needs your input about pornography and all the weird and wonderful information available at their fingertips with the click of a button. He also needs to know what the effects are of making any online posts, and that these can never be taken back. A post will be out there forever, for anyone to see. Another important aspect in this journey with you teen, and perhaps pre-teen, should be about identity misinformation, and that what people say online is not always the truth. They need to be very selective about who they accept as a contact. Navigating our way through this crazy jungle is difficult enough for us as adults, not to mention how difficult it is for our children. Spend time in their world and regularly engage in open honest converstations as these will build into their resilience and give them safe relationships where they can share their worries and ask their questions.

Nolene Rust is a qualified forensic social worker and a registered counsellor specialising in play therapy. For more than a decade, she has worked with families and children in welfare organisations, hospitals, in schools, and in the private sector. Her work includes advocating for children’s rights and working with abused and neglected children in a child protection and counselling capacity. Nolene is a regular speaker on radio, presents seminars, is involved with Jelly Beanz (NGO), and is vice president of OPSSA. To contact Nolene, call 012 7526503 or email nolene.rust@gmail.com.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/04 12:38 AM

EDUCATION: SELF ACCEPTANCE

The true mirror versus the social mirror By Marlinie Ramsamy, CEO, Franklin Covey South Africa

There is nothing wrong with wanting to look your best, but if your selfconfidence comes from how you stack up on the ‘good looks’ gauge, you’ve got some serious problems. The truth is that teens all over the world struggle with self-worth at some time in their lives.

n his book, The 6 Most Important Decisions, Sean Covey introduces us to the idea that life presents us with two mirrors – a true mirror and a social mirror. To survive high school, you will need to catch sight of your best self in the true mirror, because while the social mirror is a reflection of how others see you, the true mirror is who you really are. The social mirror is external to you, it is what others say about you – based on comparisons – and it comes from the media and their perception of an ideal look. The true mirror is based on your personal best, and it reflects your potential, your consciences, and your self-awareness. In today’s society, where we have so many uncertainties, complexities and ambiguities thrown at us from different directions, a healthy self-worth

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helps you withstand life’s curve balls, it helps you to make clear decisions in the moment, deal with peer pressure, and to deal with disappointments, failures and mistakes, because these will happen. Being confident of your self-worth helps you feel loved and wanted. However, poor self-worth leads you to cave in to negative peer pressure, prevents you from trying new things and new adventures, and you will struggle to cope through tough times. A poor self-worth relays false messages that make you feel unloved and unwanted. Building a healthy self-worth does not mean that you won’t ever get hurt or feel insecure – we would have to be living in a bubble to never feel these. A high self-worth simply means that you will have a strong ‘immune system’ that can fight the negative ‘germs’ that life sends your way. www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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EDUCATION: SELF ACCEPTANCE Let’s do a quick self-worth check-up: Circle your choice

One being the lowest, and five the highest score

I generally like myself

I have confidence in myself

I’m okay with how I look

I can handle rude or mean comments

I have good skills and talents

I finish what I start

I am happy for others when they succeed, even those closest to me

I regularly push myself to try new things and expand my comfort zone

I see myself as a winner

I have accomplished some important things in my life

If you score: 40-50 – You are on the high road, keep it up. 30-39 – You are straddling the high and low roads, move to higher ground. 10-29 – You are on the low road. Read the following steps to help you move to higher ground.

Here’s the reality: Smart decision making is the cornerstone to self-worth triumph. High road decisions

How it boosts your self-worth

Do your best at school

You’ll learn more and develop stronger skills Your parents will nag you less

Choose true friends and be a true friend

Your friends will bring out the best in you You’ll make friends more easily

Get along with your parents

You’ll have more peace at home You’ll get more support from your parents

Date intelligently, respect your body, and save yourself

You’ll enjoy a good reputation You won’t worry about SDTs, pregnancy or emotional trauma

Avoid addiction

You’ll feel better physically You’ll be in control of your life The social mirror of the world tells you that your selfworth comes from good looks and popularity. The truth is, healthy self-worth comes from character, competence and smart choices. As Dumbledore says in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, ‘It’s our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.’

Photo credit: FranklinCovey South Africa

Marlinie Ramsamy, CEO, FranklinCovey South Africa

FranklinCovey South Africa is a leading performance improvement company that helps organisations achieve results that require a change in human behaviour. Its purpose is to positively influences the operational ethos, paradigms and practices of the African leader. For more information, visit www.franklincoveysa.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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2017/04/04 12:46 AM

OUT & ABOUT: PARTIES

Play is the order of the day Climbing, jumping, exploring and engaging are just a few words that describe the endless fun to be had at Bugz Playpark, the largest playpark in the Western Cape. If you’re looking for a seriously cool venue for your kid’s birthday party, then look no further for a mindboggling array of fun indoor and outdoor activities.

Bake – where your mini master chefs take over the cooking venue to whip up their own tasty treats – a Frozen Party where Anna, Elsa and Olaf create a magical winter wonderland – or a Smurfs Party where no child is left behind to feel blue. Prices range from from R189 to R230 per child for themed parties.

What’s available? On weekends, school and public holidays the Bugz Playpark rides are open and there’s bucket loads of fun on offer. Rides are charged via individual tokens, in addition to the park’s entrance fee, or you can choose to enter on the VIP option which includes all the rides. Get ready for squeals of laughter and riveting rides that will get little hearts pumping. The park’s giant Edu-park consists of a colourful world of pedal cars, horses (and swing horses), row boats, mini tractor rides, water slides, a worm train, and even a choochoo train.

Photo credit: Bugz Playpark

ugz Playpark has a range of zones that are guaranteed to get your kids outdoors, with each activity designed to spark the imagination and develop core skills for growing children. The playpark boasts a colourful and intriguing indoor area for kids between the ages of two and 10. It’s filled with obstacles, slides, educational boards and challenges to keep attention spans going while allowing creativity to overflow. The huge outdoor playground is everything a child can imagine – swings, jungle gyms, maps, peddle carts and waterslides – and each activity will challenge little minds, build motor skills and burn energy while having fun. The perfect venue for your child’s next birthday party, Bugz Playpark boasts four delightful outdoor party areas and, should the weather turn grey, there are an additional seven indoor party areas to ensure the fun never stops. What’s more, Bugz Playpark has done all the hard work to offer and endless array of party themes that include Cake Boss and Shake &

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OUT & ABOUT: PARTIES The team at Bugz believes that little ones grow at their own pace and what you lack on the see-saw, you make up for on the swings. Other activities include large sandpit play areas with super jungle gyms, slides, swings and obstacles to crawl under and over. Playhouses, mud kitchens, a splash zone and a tree house, as well as a castle to keep imaginations soaring. If the weather isn’t great, the fun can continue indoors at the giant obstacle jungle gym and soft toy toddler zone.

Bugz furry family At Bugz, they know just how important it is for little ones to interact with animals. Get those city-raised kids moving their bodies, feeding furry friends and learning the skill of gentle and loving care. Megan’s Petting Farm, located outside the park, opens over weekends and has a happy family of cute creatures – goats, tortoises, bunnies, geese, ducks, guinea pigs and parrots – for kids to meet. It’s a fun way to let little kids feed and care for tame, delightful animals. And, we make sure that the animals are very well taken care for.

All about play Play is an essential part of children’s emotional, physical and intellectual well-being – the more they play, the smarter and stronger they become. The aim at Bugz Playpark is that children happily grow from little Bugz to big Bugz. Everything they’ve built at the park has a purpose – to help bright buttons grow through play. The park is specially designed around the joy of play, with dedicated activities and areas for building little muscles, problem solving and enticing wild imaginations. They’ve made it easy for parents, too. Look out for signs in the play zones that explain exactly which skill your little trooper will be developing.

The school of yays and woo hoos Bugz loves school visits. Why? Because they believe in building bright little buttons. Free, imaginative

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Kids visiting Bugz Playpark are known as the imagineNATION. Join this march and say ‘no’ to boredom and technology, and say ‘hello’ to learning the fun way through free play.” play helps children socially, it provides coping mechanisms for everyday stress, and builds cognitive skills such as problem solving. Bugz believes that when there is joy in what children are doing, they will learn to love learning. Packages are available for groups of all sizes.

Fuel for fun Bugz Playpark prepares lunch for school groups or you can bring your own. You’re also welcome to stop off at Bugz Big Bite Restaurant or Yum on the Run for something delicious. Want to include an educational 20min talk on farm animals? These talks are age appropriate and kids can engage with the animals in the petting farm area afterwards. School groups can only be accommodated from Monday to Thursdays from 09:00 to 13:00. No school groups are admitted during school holidays or on public holidays. For more information, or to book a themed party, visit www.bugzplaypark.co.za.

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Available at selected Pharmacies and Medirite stores. 13_BABAprIssue2017.indd 74

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KICKS FOR KIDS

babys beyond and

a family lifestyle magazine

Easter eggs Just around the corner is Easter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. Good Friday is the day that Jesus died. It is called Good Friday as Jesus died for the good of mankind. Easter Sunday is the day that Jesus came back to life; it is a day of celebration and the day that we exchange gifts of eggs. In the Christian faith, eggs represent new beginnings, new life and renewed faith. For children, the Easter Bunny leaves eggs for you to find when you wake up in the morning.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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KICKS FOR KIDS

Word game

a Find out the correct word by following the lines and adding the letters in the blank squares.

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Join the dots

Draw a line from dot number 1 to dot number 2, then from dot number 2 to dot number 3, and so on. Keep going until youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve joined all the dots.

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2017/04/04 12:51 AM

KICKS FOR KIDS

Find

Spot the differences

Help this little ant get to school.

Can you find the 10 differences between these two pictures?

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the route

2017/04/04 12:51 AM

Grab some grub

Macaroni Cheese with Mushrooms Method

Adjust the oven shelf to the middle position. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Boil the pasta for seven minutes and drain. Season with Pasta Spice and stir through the olive oil. Mix the White Sauce Powder with the cold water to make a smooth slurry. Bring the milk and butter to a fast boil, either on the stove or in the microwave on 100% power. (If microwaving use a one-litre measuring jug to allow for foaming). Immediately mix the slurry into the boiling milk mixture while stirring briskly with a wire whisk to achieve a smooth consistency. Cook for a further one minute if not thick enough and give a final stir before use. Add the Chilli & Garlic Seasoning and two thirds of the cheese to the sauce. Dish the bottled Pasta Sauce into a medium/large 30cm x 21cm ovenproof dish and level it out. Sauté the onion, pre-seasoned with Green Onion Seasoning, until brown in a mixture of the butter and oil. Add mushrooms and stir-fry until just beginning to wilt. Spoon the cooked mushrooms and onion over the Pasta Sauce in the dish. Spoon the macaroni over the mushrooms. Finally spread the white sauce over. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until nicely browned. Serve with a large tossed salad.

Ina’s tip This recipe is wonderful when entertaining vegetarians or for feeding the family on a shoestring. Our Beef Bolognaise Pasta Sauce would be an excellent choice for meat eaters.

Double the recipe for a crowd. If this is the case, it is quicker to make the sauce on the stove rather than in the microwave.

You will need

250g macaroni Boiling water 2 t (10ml) Ina Paarman’s Pasta Spice 1 T (15ml) olive oil 4 T (60 ml) Ina Paarman’s White Sauce Powder 4 T (60 ml) cold tap water 2 cups (500ml) full cream milk 2 T (30 ml) butter ½ t (2.5ml) Ina Paarman’s Chilli & Garlic Seasoning 1 cup (100g) grated cheddar cheese 1 smallish onion, chopped ½ t (2.5ml) Ina Paarman’s Green Onion Seasoning 1 t (5ml) butter 2 T (30ml) oil, canola or olive 200 to 250g button mushrooms, sliced 1 x 400ml Ina Paarman’s Roasted Mushroom or Beef Bolognaise Pasta Sauce

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 12:55 AM

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2017/04/04 12:55 AM

Grab some grub

Sweet Potato Crisps Make your own healthy crisps. Not only is it a big saving, but sweet potato is also good for you. The secret is to slice the vegetables very thinly, so that they are almost ‘see through’.

You will need

3 long red sweet potatoes, rinsed and scrubbed olive or canola oil Ina Paarman’s Potato Spice

Method

Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat oven to 190°C. Line a large flat baking tray with a length of baking paper.

Slice the cleaned, unpeeled sweet potatoes into paper thin rounds using a mandolin, potato peeler or very sharp knife.

Toss the slices in a bowl with ± 2 T of oil and 1 t of Potato Spice.

Recipes and pictures courtesy of

Spread out in a single layer on the baking paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until lightly browned and crispy. Season with a little more Potato Spice and enjoy.

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2017/04/04 12:57 AM

promising products

Hair treatment programme

Photo credit: Pelo Baum

uring pregnancy, high hormone levels keep resting hairs from falling out. The result is that most women have gorgeous pregnancy hair. However, after the babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival your hair disappointingly goes back to normal and those strands are lost. It can take up to two years for your locks to return to normal but, with advancements in technology and new treatment options, there is hope. Pelo Baum from Lamelle Research Laboratories is a premium, comprehensive hair treatment programme that includes a revitalising shampoo and conditioner. So, if you have noticed big hair loss following the birth of your baby, consider a treatment that encourages hair growth. Pelo Baum is a scalp solutions that enters the follicle and stimulates growth cells. It encourages hair growth, reduces further hair loss, and stimulates the skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to create new hair follicles. Pelo Baum is available nationwide from leading hair salons, dermatologists and accredited Lamelle skincare suppliers. The products retail at R640 for the 60ml Revitalising Solution and R190 each for the 150ml Shampoo and 110ml Conditioner. For more information, visit www.lamelle.co.za.

To find out more about getting your product listed in this Promising Products section.

contact: Elroy van Heerden on 021 424 3625 or elroy@babysandbeyond.co.za

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www.babysandbeyond.co.za

2017/04/04 1:01 AM

promising products

Keeping the immune system healthy

Photo credit: Betamed

mmunity improves the ability to face life’s challenges. It boosts energy and vitality, which affects physical strength, appearance and mental acuity. Bettamed Tablets (and liquid) provide advanced healing by removing infection and pollution from the body as waste. This allows the body to function at a higher level because it is not battling germs on its own. Bettamed works naturally to boost nutritional absorption by up to 500%. This boosts immune function, protects skin, slows signs of ageing, and sooths skin issues such as eczema. It lowers free radical damage and inflammation and safeguards brain health. It improves digestion of iron and calcium, enhances energy levels and protects bone health. The increased bio availability of magnesium and subsequent Vitamin B absorption, promotes speedy recovery from stress and exercise. Bettamed is fortified with Selenium and L-Glutamine, making it a valuable support after illness or surgery. Bettamed (CHD-FA) is a pure form of fulvic acid derived from organic sources instead of ground sources. It can be safely used with chronic medications and supplements, and is available from Dis-Chem, AlphaPharm, Wellness Warehouse and independent health stores for R170 for Bettamed Tablets, and R160 for Bettamed 200ml Liquid. For more information, visit www.bettamed.com.

Essential vitamins and minerals

W Photo credit: Wellkid®

ellkid® Baby & Infant liquid has been developed especially for babies and infants from three months to five years. It provides a safe and balanced comprehensive range of 14 essential vitamins and minerals. Wellkid® Baby & Infant liquid also contains Swiss Alpine malt as a natural energy source, making it a great taste your little ones will love. The product, priced from R97.78 (150ml), is available at Dis-Chem, Clicks and community pharmacies nationwide, and online at www.vitabiotics.co.za.

Pump up your cashback

licks, South Africa’s leading pharmacy, health and beauty retailer, has teamed up with Shell South Africa to give customers even more feel-good rewards. You can fill up and earn points every time you swipe your Clicks ClubCard at participating Shell stations nationwide. One litre of fuel or diesel = one point. The more litres you purchase, the more points you earn, the greater your cashback. Cashback is loaded onto your ClubCard six times a year and can be redeemed at any Clicks, GNC or Claire’s stores nationwide. Make every journey a feel good one with Clicks and Shell SA. For more information and T&Cs, visit www.clicks.co.za.

www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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Special Design Clothes for Boys & Girls

Day And Night Fashion for any Occasions.

Tel: 082 8505 808 E-mail: info@cherrykids.co.za 13 Boekenhout Crescent, Extension 4, Delmas, 2210 PO Box 815, Delmas, 2210 www.cherrykids.co.za

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2017/04/04 1:04 AM

BOOK REVIEW

Mister Snail Christy Peacock Penguin Random House South Africa | R90.00 Mister Snail is a kindly soul who finds a wonderful new home in a pretty garden. Soon he makes friends with all his neighbours – a finch, a pair of field mice, and a pretty butterfly – and he is happy. However, after a while, things begin to go wrong and Mister Snail’s neighbours complain about the slimy trails he leaves behind. Poor Mister Snail is devastated when they ask him to leave his new home if he doesn’t change his ways. He is also very sad because they refuse to accept him as he is. But before he leaves, he asks for one more chance to change their minds. And that’s when something magical happens.

A Faraway Tree Adventure – The Land of Dreams Enid Blyton Penguin Random House South Africa | R100.00 Beth, Joe, Frannie and Rick thought they had had quite enough of adventures, but soon go up the Faraway Tree again and find themselves in the Land of Dreams. The dastardly Sandman makes them fall asleep and Silky has to find a way to get them home in one piece! Along the way, they encounter muffins that turn into kittens, a bus that turns into a plane and a boat, and lots more…

A Faraway Tree Adventure – The Land of Dreams Enid Blyton Penguin Random House South Africa | R100.00 Joe, Beth, Frannie and cousin Rick go up the Faraway Tree for another fantastical adventure! This time they reach the Land of Toys where teddy bears, dolls and clockwork toys run around all day long. Poor Saucepan-Man gets thrown into prison by some toy soldiers and the children must rescue him before it’s too late…

Once We Were Sisters Sheila Kohler Penguin Random House South Africa | R300.00 Once We Were Sisters is the story of Maxine and Sheila Kohler. Growing up in the suffocating gentility of 1950s South Africa, the girls plan grand lives for themselves that will bring them out of the long shadow cast by their father’s death and their overbearing mother’s bullying. Maxine is just shy of her 40th birthday when her husband, a brilliant and respected surgeon, drives their car off the road and kills her. Devastated, Sheila returns to South Africa determined to find answers. However, more haunting are the questions. How had she failed to protect her sister? Was Maxine’s murder an accident or destiny? What lies in the soil of their troubled motherland that condemns its women to such violence? www.babysandbeyond.co.za

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