babys beyond TM
and
a family lifestyle magazine
Smiles
Bye-bye cot, hello big bed
for Africa
Keeping children
safe online October – December 2017
ISSN 2311-5467
9 772311 546706 www.babysandbeyond.co.za
Finding your health
in your genes
Healthy tummies,
healthy babies
INSIDE: Features Competitions Kicks for kids Recipes
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babys beyond TM
and
08 CONTENTS
a family lifestyle magazine
FEATURES
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Connected kids............................................................................ 8 Understanding development coordination disorder............. 12 Stem cell myths busted............................................................. 16 Bye-bye cot, hello big bed....................................................... 20 Smiles for Africa.......................................................................... 22 A guide to baby monitors......................................................... 24 How to take the heat when suffering from eczema............. 26 The cost of raising a child.......................................................... 29 Breastfeeding – the myths, the marvels and the magic....... 32 Nurturing touch.......................................................................... 34 Santa’s Shoebox: march to one million................................... 36 Saving is child’s play with smart second-hand shopping..... 38 The right to fly............................................................................. 40
HEALTH
Finding your health in your genes............................................ 42 Burns: they happen frequently so be prepared..................... 44 The healing power of aloe........................................................ 46 Medical aid cover to suit your budget and needs................ 49 Healthy tummies, healthy babies............................................ 52 Why does my child grind his teeth?......................................... 54 The vagus nerve: why it’s important........................................ 56 Helping children control what they eat.................................. 58 Understanding meningococcal meningitis............................ 60 Drought could worsen hayfever symptoms............................ 62 How to create a first aid kit....................................................... 65 Be a breastfeeding pro............................................................. 67
EDUCATION
Social media: does it define your teenager?......................... 68 The importance of sports and games at school.................... 70 Getting the balance right......................................................... 72 The importance of camp.......................................................... 74
REGULARS
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Grab Some Grub: Watermelon salad with feta..................... 76 Granadilla ice cream................................................................ 77 Promising Products: Babe-Eeze 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mat Parenting from the palm of your hand................................... 82 Love your toddler’s scooter but not the noise? Pack light with Mini Travel SoyLites........................................... 83 Play and learn; All Gold’s limited edition bottles................... 84 Kicks for Kids: Fun puzzles and activities................................. 86 Book Review: This edition’s recommended reading............. 90 www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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Baby’s and Beyond
CREDITS babys beyond TM
October – December 2017
Publishing Director: Elroy van Heerden elroy@babysandbeyond.co.za
and
a family lifestyle magazine
Editor: Emma Dawson editor@babysandbeyond.co.za Editorial Contributors Annerié Conradie Anthony van Rensburg Carey Haupt Christine Marincowitz Damian McHugh Dr Adél Rossouw Guy Ashburner Ina Paarman Jane Henderson Lynne Bluff Marene Jooste Mariska van der Watt Megan Pentz-Kluyts Nicole Jennings Nigel Sloane Rochez O’Grady Sydney Sekese
Bye-bye cot, hello big bed
Smiles for Africa
Keeping children
Finding your health
in your genes
safe online www.babysandbeyond.co.za
Healthy tummies,
October – December 2017
healthy babies
ISSN 2311-5467
9 772311 546706 www.babysandbeyond.co.za
Content Manager: Melanie Taylor artwork@mediaxpose.co.za
INSIDE: FEaTurES COMpETITIONS KICKS FOr KIDS rECIpES
Pictures: 123rf.com
Design and Layout: CDC Design carla@cdcdesign.co.za Advertising Sales: Allison Davids allison@babysandbeyond.co.za Lorraine Beneke lorraine@babysandbeyond.co.za Chief Financial Officer: Shaun Mays shaun@mediaxpose.co.za Marketing & Communications Manager: Sarina Afonso sarina@mediaxpose.co.za
babysandbeyond @babysandbeyond
Online Advertising Consultant: Maurisha Niewenhuys maurisha@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.
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ED’S NOTE Keeping children safe online
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arenting in the digital world can be stressful, especially as it is not always easy to control what children are doing or who they are connected to in the online world. While the internet provides many benefits for children, it is also dangerous and the devices used should be protected to offer parents some control of their children’s safety. I recently attended one of Kaspersky Lab’s cybersecurity roadshows to learn about the cyber dangers our children face and what parents should know. According to research cited by Kaspersky Lab, 60% of South African children access the internet for communication media purposes. 53% of children in Cape Town are mostly interested in Internet communication media, predominantly referred to as social media. Additionally, a research report, South Africa Kids Online, shows that 30% of children added new people to their social media friends list that they have never met in real life. The situation is aggravated by children publishing their address or school number in social networks, and indicating places and locations where they go. In fact, 67% of children shared details about the school they attend and 54% shared their places and locations, which can put them at risk. These warning are echoed in an article on page 68 by Anthony van Rensburg, principal of Abbotts College Pretoria East, who confirms that one of the problems with social media is that your child’s moves can be determined without much effort. Teenagers make themselves targets for being stalked and are often followed by strangers. He reiterates what Kaspersky Lab warns: that teenagers update their status frequently, share what they’re watching, listening to, and reading, and have apps that let their friends know their specific location. In addition to the security risk this poses, he adds that because of this hyper connectivity, teenagers can be contacted by any one of their online friends at any given time – conversations never really end and there is always something hot and new happening to discuss. They never get a break from this and it often causes teenagers to be more anxious and emotionally depleted. Kaspersky Lab is passionate about helping children and their parents to develop safe digital experiences and offers a parental control module that helps to protect children against online threats and block sites or apps with inappropriate content. For links to more tips and security options, turn to page 8. Until next time, the Baby’s and Beyond team withes you a fabulous festive season.
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Happy holidays!
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FEATURE
Connected
kids
I
n partnership with Active Education, Kaspersky Lab – a global cybersecurity company – embarked on a series of interactive cybersecurity roadshows at selected schools in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The roadshows were aimed at driving awareness around online safety for children aged seven to 13. Topics covered key issues relating to children’s vulnerability online, including cyberbullying, safe social media behaviour, and general rules for online protection. Children were supplied with relevant examples of what could happen online, and why their safety in this space is so important. A fun and engaging programme ensured they could relate to the content.
Safety online ‘Children have access to so many technologies today – mobile phones, social media, games and more,’ explains Riaan Badenhorst, general manager for Kaspersky Lab Africa. ‘While the internet provides many benefits to children, we know that it can also be a dangerous place and keeping kids safe online has become a major challenge for parents. In fact, our research shows that 53% of parents are afraid that their children could be faced with inappropriate content online. There is an important need to educate and create awareness about safety online, for children and for parents. We certainly feel that these activations are a good way to assist in achieving this.’
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Photo credit: Kaspersky Lab
We all know that keeping children safe online is one of today’s biggest challenges for parents. While you cannot monitor your child’s every move online, ‘other people’ are – think cybercriminal, elicit content providers and cyber bullies, to name a few. Emma Dawson attended one of Kaspersky Lab’s cybersecurity roadshows in Cape Town to learn about the dangers for children and what parents need to know.
Beware of the dangers Today, most children have access to the Internet and many parents don’t really know how they spend their time online. According to parental control module data, children have a high level of curiosity relating to sites that fall into the category ‘alcohol, tobacco, drugs’. Last year, experts globally noticed an increase in children’s interest in this topic and it continues to develop. The data shows that 23% of children in Cape Town are interested in this subject, which is higher than in South Africa in general (18%) and in Johannesburg (20%). ‘In many regions we connect this phenomenon with the popularity of vapers among adolescents,’ Vladislav Tushkanov, junior data scientist at Kaspersky Lab, explains. According to the same research, 60% of South African children access the internet for communication media purposes. 53% of children in Cape Town are mostly interested in Internet communication media – in the majority of cases this is referred to as social media. Experts identify several major threats associated with social networks. For example, strangers with whom children in social networks make contact with more easily than in real life. A research report South Africa Kids Online shows that 30% of children added new people to their social media friends list that they have never met in real life. The situation is aggravated by www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE the fact that children often publish their address or school number in social networks, and indicate places and locations where they go. In fact, 67% of children shared details about the school they attend and 54% shared their places and locations, which can put them at risk of potential harm.
Additionally, in recent years, children are increasingly faced with cyberbullying – humiliation or harassment through electronic communication tools. The same research shows that 22% of children reported being treated in a hurtful or nasty way in the past year. How could a parent know that a child has something wrong happening on their social networks? Kaspersky Lab’s experts identify several key features: • Sudden changes in mood for no apparent reason • Changing the style of use of the digital device and social networks (for example, the child begins to wake up at night to go online) • A sharp increase or decrease in the number of ‘friends’ in the social network • The appearance of ‘friends’ with a big age difference • Abusive images and messages on the child’s page • The child deletes the page on social networks.
A safe digital experience
Photo credit: Kaspersky Lab
To help children avoid threats that are trapped in social networks, Kaspersky Lab experts advise parents to talk with their children to educate them about correct behaviour and security on the Internet. This includes the following warnings: • It is not recommended to publish too much personal information that attackers can use. • It is not advised to join groups with potentially dangerous content, for example, about weapons, drugs, suicide. • Children should never follow links from unknown recipients: tempting offers can lead to infected pages. ‘To ensure that a child has a safe digital experience it is necessary to monitor their time on the Internet and develop digital literacy, both among children and adults. Adults need to build trust with their children. If you just limit them from spending time on social networks or other potentially dangerous sites, then in a really difficult situation they will be afraid to ask for help from parents/guardians and
Photo credit: Emma Dawson
Cyberbullying
Vladislav Tushkanov, junior data scientist at Kaspersky Lab, with Midori Kuma, Kaspersky Lab’s mascot.
remain alone with the problem,’ explains Vladislav Tushkanov, junior data scientist, Kaspersky Lab. The Kaspersky Total Security and Kaspersky Internet Security consumer solutions include a Parental Control module to help adults protect their children against online threats and block sites or apps with inappropriate content. Kaspersky Lab also offers the Kaspersky Safe Kids solution that allows parents to understand what their children do, see or search for online across all devices, including mobile devices, and to get useful advice on how to help children behave safely online. More educational tips for parents can be found at https://kids.kaspersky.com/, and for kids at https:// kids.kaspersky.com/kids/.
Kaspersky Lab’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into security solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection and a number of specialised security solutions and services to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky Lab technologies and we help 270 000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. For more information, visit www.kaspersky.co.za.
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Riaan Badenhorst, Kaspersky Lab’s general manager for the Africa region.
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FEATURE
Understanding development coordination disorder Development coordination disorder (DCD) is often called a ‘hidden disorder’ because children are regularly misdiagnosed, or not diagnosed at all. Marene Jooste, a Kinderkineticist, explains what DCD is and the impact it has on children’s lives and the lives of their families.
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hat happens if you have a clumsy child with two left feet, who seems to move slower than other children, or who takes longer to reach his milestones? What if this lack of coordination also affects daily functioning, making it a struggle to execute simple motor activities such as fastening buttons, tying shoelaces, or using a knife and fork? We need to look at this aspect of motor
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development because 5 to 6% of all schoolaged children are affected by severe clumsiness, which is also known as development coordination disorder (DCD). Some research in South Africa by Kinderkineticists even suggests that up to 15% of children are affected by DCD, depending on the geographical area in which the research has been done. DCD is also more prevalent in boys than girls.
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FEATURE
Unfortunately, many people are still unaware of DCD and the impact it has on children’s lives and the lives of their families. What is DCD? DCD is not a new concept or the latest ‘craze’. Over the centuries, different terms have been used to describe children with motor difficulties. It was also believed that children would ‘outgrow’ their clumsiness. However, studies now show quite conclusively that most children do not outgrow these problems and, in 1994, an international panel of experts decided to recognise ‘clumsy’ children as having DCD. Unfortunately, many people are still unaware of DCD and the impact it has on children’s lives and the lives of their families. DCD is a common developmental condition where children experience noteworthy difficulties in motor learning and in the performance of everyday motor tasks. These difficulties cannot be explained by physical, sensory, neurological or intellectual impairments. To be diagnosed with DCD (or dyspraxia as some professionals refer to it), a child’s motor coordination should be significantly below what is expected for the child’s age and intelligence. The motor difficulties should also interfere with academic achievement or daily activities. Another criterion for DCD is that coordination problems should not be because of ASD (autism spectrum disorder) or a general medical condition such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy. The onset of these difficulties should also be in the early developmental period of a child’s life. Children who only begin experiencing coordination difficulties later in life, or who experience a loss of motor skills, would not be consistent with DCD. This rather suggests an underlying neurological (or other medical) disorder that the child may have.
Signs and symptoms Now that we have a clear definition for DCD, what are the associated signs and symptoms? A child with DCD experiences problems with learning new movements and can have delayed milestone development because of this. A child may also appear clumsy or awkward. He may frequently bump into things or knock things over. He may also have difficulty with gross motor skills such as running, hopping, skipping, initiating a jump form a small height, or climbing. Such a child may also find it difficult to figure out the amount of force and direction needed to perform an action such as
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opening a lid or tackling an opponent. Additionally, coordination and motor planning are huge challenges for children with DCD. Other characteristics of DCD include poor postural control and balance, poor visual-motor abilities and ball skills, poor bilateral integration, reduced strength and endurance, fine motor difficulties (cutting, writing, colouring) and poor organisational skills. There are many more characteristics that can be added to the list, but these are the main concerns for parents and teachers. Keep in mind that children diagnosed with DCD have common symptoms, but the degree of motor difficulties varies from childhood to adolescence, and even between children. Nevertheless, it is important to recognise these motor difficulties because children with DCD are more likely to develop academic and behavioural problems, demonstrate low self-esteem, depression and anxiety, and they are at greater risk of becoming overweight.
Causes of DCD The causes for DCD are still largely unknown. However, children born prematurely and children with extremely low birth weights are at a significantly increased risk of demonstrating DCD. A complex relationship also exists between DCD and other developmental disorders such as ADHD, dyslexia, and a speech language impairment to name a few. The overlapping of the various disorders often prevents professionals to make a clear-cut diagnosis of DCD.
Diagnosing DCD Is there a need to formally diagnose a child with DCD? At our paediatric development centre, we try and avoid labels as far as possible and instead provide a brief, practical description of a child’s coordination difficulties with any co-morbid problems that may exist. However, a diagnosis can sometimes be helpful to summarise problems, communicate important information to other professionals, and plan the relevant services a child requires. Remember, a diagnosis is just used to describe a specific set of symptoms that are being experienced by a child. It can also help to access funding or services that might not otherwise be accessible. This may include tax benefits and/or concessions for school exams.
A child with DCD experiences problems with learning new movements and can have delayed milestone development because of this. 13
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FEATURE Professional help Who can assess and diagnose a child with DCD? There are currently a few professions in South Africa that can assist with this process. A Kinderkineticist, for example, can perform various assessments using internationally-recognised tests to determine if a child’s motor skills are on par with his current developmental age. If the child’s motor development scores are significantly below expectations, additional referrals can then be made to neurologists, paediatricians, or other medical practitioners to rule out any medical or neurological causes. However, a diagnosis alone is not the solution. It simply opens the door to getting the help needed by arming everyone involved with the relevant information. It also empowers parents to have more knowledge (and consequently more grace) with their child by understanding his capabilities. But the help still needs to be provided. If left untreated, a child with DCD may struggle to manage a full school day because of poor strength and endurance. Fine motor skills (writing, drawing and cutting, for example) may also persist because of poor core stability, meaning that he does not have a strong base to support the use of his arms and hands. Furthermore, anxiety and stress is often experienced because he may struggle to complete assessments, exams and other academic tasks in higher education. For these reasons, it is important to find a professional who can help with exercises to address problem areas that are identified by parents and/ or teachers. A Kinderkineticist can provide guidelines and talk to parents about possible interventions and strategies that can be followed after a diagnosis. A Kinderkineticist can also provide specific and appropriate task-orientated exercises to address problem areas. Coordination difficulties do not usually go away, but children can learn how to successfully execute many of the motor tasks that they need to perform every day.
Assisting children with DCD It is important to understand that children with DCD may encounter more success with certain activities than with others. Lifestyle sports such as swimming,
It is important to find a professional who can help with exercises to address problem areas that are identified by parents and/or teachers. cycling, running, skating and skiing are activities that are worth the extra time and effort to learn as children with DCD can participate in these activities and reap the health benefits throughout their lifetimes. Also try to introduce a child to new sports activities or a new playground on an individual basis before he is required to manage the activity in a group. Regarding clothing, encourage your child to wear clothing that is easy to get on and off. For example, T-shirts, sweaters and Velcro shoes. When possible, use Velcro closures instead of buttons or shoelaces.
A note for teachers Teachers can ensure that the child is positioned properly at his desk. His feet should be flat on the floor and the desk at the appropriate height so that his shoulders are relaxed and his forearms supported on the desk. Provide the child with extra time to write exams or to complete fine motor activities such as math, printing, writing a story, or artwork. If speed is required, accept a less accurate product from this child. Also use paper that matches the child’s handwriting difficulties – well-spaced lines for a child who writes with very large letters, raised lined paper for a child who has trouble writing within the lines, or graph paper with large squares for a child who has trouble keeping numbers aligned in maths. For more information about DCD, contact our paediatric development centre or visit www.kwandakinetics. co.za. Until next time, happy moving moments!
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Photo credit: Kwanda Kinetics
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. To find a Kinderkineticist practicing in your area, visit www.kinderkinetics.co.za.
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FEATURE
Stem cell
myths busted By Christine Marincowitz, group marketing and communications manager, Ecsponent Limited
The term ‘stem cell’ gleans different reactions from people both in the medical community and the wider public. Still an emerging science, but with immense possibilities, stem cell research is shrouded in many myths and misconceptions. Cryo-Save considers the top myths and clarifies facts regarding this fast-growing medical treatment.
Photo credit: Cryo-Save
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FEATURE Myth 1: Stem cell storage is costly Stem cell storage is available to anyone who would like to store their baby’s umbilical cord stem cells. Cryo-Save has multiple cost options and interest-free payment plans from as little as R250.00 per month to store cord blood, and R350.00 per month for storing both cord blood and tissue.
Myth 2: All stem cells are the same When you hear ‘stem cells’, you may not know exactly what these are or conjure up images of a certain cloned sheep. Stem cells are the body’s internal repair system. They continuously replace dead or diseased cells with new, healthy cells to ensure normal body function. We differentiate between embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are powerful because they are pluripotent – they can develop into any type of cell in your body. But they’re often controversial because of their origin and are not part of the stem cell storage services offered by Cryo-Save. Multipotent, or adult, stem cells are found throughout the body and they form only certain tissue cells, maintaining your body’s organs as you age – for example blood forming stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells. Since 1998, researchers have successfully used umbilical cord stem cells (taken from a new-born’s cord blood), to treat leukaemia and other blood disorders since 1998. Stem cells from a baby’s umbilical cord are considered adult stem cells and these precious cells, if not cryopreserved, are discarded as medical waste in many instances.
Myth 3: Umbilical cord stem cells can only be used for your baby Your baby’s umbilical cord stem cells are a 100% perfect match for your baby, and biological parents’ stem cells will be at least a half match. There is a 25% probability of matching siblings and, unlike bone marrow transplants, you don’t have to have a perfect match in transplants when making use of cord blood stem cells.
Myth 4: I didn’t store my first child’s stem cells. Is there any point in storing my second child’s? Just as some people need organ transplants to treat or cure diseases, blood stem cells can be transplanted too. If the blood forming stem cells in our bodies cannot produce healthy cells or stop producing cells completely, we cannot function normally and our stem cells will have to be replaced with healthy ones that can be found in the bone marrow or umbilical cord blood. Sometimes these stem cells are your own, and sometimes they will come from a donor. Cord blood contains powerful stem cells. If your baby gets ill in the future, you may be able to use these cells as treatment. One of the contributing factors is that partially matched cord blood stem cells can be used for transplantation, increasing www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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the chances of finding a suitable match. Today, umbilical cord blood stem cells are used in more than a third of all blood stem cell transplants in the world. Therefore, storing your second child’s stem cells has the possibility – depending on the degree of matching – to treat your first child and possibly other family members, too, should a stem cell transplant be needed.
Myth 5: Stem cell storage is only available overseas Cryo-Save has been storing umbilical cord stem cells for families all over the world since 2000. It is the leading family stem cell bank in Europe and Africa, storing more than 310 000 samples. Cryo-Save South Africa offers both local and international storage options in either Pretoria or Europe for both cord blood and cord tissue. This local facility complies with the highest international standards and importantly complies to the coveted AABB accreditation standards.
Myth 6: Mixed race parents can’t store stem cells On average, the chances of finding a perfectly matching blood stem cell donor for allogeneic transplant, are only 1 in 100 000. These odds are significantly worse for people from a mixed descent. However, despite its diverse ethnic make-up, South Africa (nor the rest of the continent) has a public cord blood stem cell bank, which makes the likelihood of finding a matching donor even more challenging. Should a child from mixed descent be diagnosed with a blood-related cancer or disorder, the search for a possible stem cell match can be debilitating to a family’s finances and hope for recovery. Therefore, Cryo-Save encourages mixed race families to store their babies’ stem cells.
Myth 7: Stem cell banking is only for families with a history of cancer This myth is deceptive and dangerous. The uses of cord blood stem cells have extended far beyond treatments for cancer. Researchers have invigorated the field of regenerative medicine through innovative uses of stem cells. To say that someone doesn’t need to store cord blood because there isn’t a family history of cancer completely discredits the expansive work being done to identify treatments for all these other conditions. It’s true that cord blood research started with a foundation in blood-related diseases such as Leukaemia, but what many people don’t realise is that stem cells now play a part in the treatment of over 80 varying diseases and conditions. Furthermore, there are countless clinical trials taking place that are seeking to push the boundaries of regenerative medicine.
Myth 8: Stem cell collection is a risky medical procedure Collecting stem cells from an umbilical cord blood is quick, painless and non-invasive, posing no medical risk to mother or baby. Once a baby is born, the
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FEATURE umbilical cord is clamped and cut – a standard medical procedure. It is only after the clamping that the blood and tissue are collected from the umbilical cord for stem cell processing. The stem cells are collected from the umbilical cord, which is usually discarded as medical waste after the baby’s birth.
Myth 9: Your gynaecologist is the only person that can perform the stem cord cell collection process As more patients choose to collect their baby’s cord blood, doctors are becoming increasingly familiar with the collection process. However, if your doctor has never done a cord blood collection before, Cryo-Save’s dedicated team of representatives provides simple step-by-step instructions with all the collection kits they supply. The Cryo-Save medical director is available to provide any telephonic support to healthcare professionals prior to the procedure. Cryo-Save can also arrange for its own registered nurse to conduct the collection process.
Myth 10: Stem cell banking cannot be combined with delayed cord clamping With more parents wanting to store their child’s umbilical cord blood and delayed cord clamping being recommended in certain circumstances, the question arises: ‘Are umbilical cord blood banking and delayed cord clamping mutually exclusive?’ The answer is no, and it is possible to do both. The placenta and umbilical cord hold enough blood to allow delaying the cord clamping by one minute (the recommended time given by the World Health Organization) and still have enough for a successful cord blood collection. Chances of a successful collection will naturally increase by combining in + ex utero collection.
Myth 11: Stem cell banking is only possible with vaginal/caesarean birth Cord blood and cord tissue collections are safe for both vaginal and caesarean deliveries.
Myth 12: The ultimate cure for everything Blood stem cell transplantation, using stem blood cells from sources such as bone marrow, has been performed for more than 50 years and plays an important role in treatmenting bone marrow failures, blood cancers, blood disorders, metabolic diseases,
immune deficiencies and autoimmune diseases. Stem cell therapies are now becoming as important to the medical field as antibiotics were for the 20th Century. Yet, stem cell procedures are not the answer to every degenerative condition. Cryo-Save puts an emphasis on educating potential patients and helping them make well-informed treatment decisions.
Myth 13: Storing stem cells is a ‘health insurance’ Each case is unique and only the treating physician can determine match eligibility. Stem cell research is promising but its applicable use has only just begun. As research continues into stem cells and their flexibility, the list of possible treatments grows. Therefore, storing stem cells is not a health insurance but an investment in the future of healthcare.
Myth 14: Religious opposition to stem cell research There are various categories or sources of stem cells, adult stem cells and stem cells from cellular reprogramming. Certain religions oppose only one of these categories: embryonic stem cell research. This is because the cells are taken from embryos that are up to fourteen days old, invariably destroying that early human life. The Catholic Church, for example, supports most categories of research involving stem cells, and supports every ethical form of stem cell research. However, it has a firm position against embryonic stem cell research.
Myth 15: Bone marrow provides the best source of stem cells Wrong! Bone marrow is one of the sources of stem cells, but not the best one. Stem cells are often called master cells and form the foundation for your entire body as building blocks for the blood, immune system, tissue and organs. They can replicate or regenerate themselves and can differentiate into any one of 220 different specialised cells in the body. Studies show that cord blood transplants can be performed in cases where the donor and the recipient are only partially matched. In contrast, bone marrow grafts require a perfect degree match in most cases. Because partially matched cord blood transplants can be performed, cord blood potentially increases a patient’s chance to find a suitable donor. As treatment uses are developing, these stem cells may have potential that is currently not even known.
As one of the specialised divisions in the Ecsponent private equity stable, Ecsponent Biotech invests in products and services that promote the adoption of personalised and regenerative medicine for South Africans to improve their quality of life. Ecsponent Biotech focuses on advancing children’s health by providing access to affordable, lifesaving technologies. Investments in international and local brands combine the technical excellence of leading biotech organisations with Ecsponent’s local business expertise, including Cryo-Save (Europe’s largest stem cell bank) and Salveo Swiss Biotechnology (Geneva-based leader in predictive medicine). For more information about Cryo-Save or stem cell storage, call 087 8080 170 or email info@cryo-save.co.za.
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FEATURE
Bye-bye cot,
hello big bed
With a little preparation, you can minimise the tears – both yours and your toddler’s – when it comes to saying goodbye to the cot and hello to a big bed. Protect-A-Bed® provides some valuable advice.
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ouTube is crammed with videos of ingenious toddlers scaling the bars of their cots in gymnastic bids for freedom. Adorable as these pint-sized Houdinis may be, once a toddler gets the hang of flying the coop, it’s time to deal with yet another childhood milestone: the move to a big bed. Even if your toddler hasn’t yet risked a nasty fall in her quest to ‘escape’, a big bed might still be necessary if the cot is becoming too small, is needed for a new baby, or is preventing a toilet-training toddler from getting up to go to the loo.
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While there are no hard and fast rules, most toddlers make the move to their own beds any time between 18 months and three and a half years.
Choosing the right time Moving to a new bed can be very stressful, so it’s best not to do it during periods of upheaval, such as starting nursery school, when you’re going back to work, or when you or your child is sick. If your toddler is leaving the cot because of a new baby, make the move at least six weeks before or a
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FEATURE few months after the birth, so that she doesn’t feel as if she’s being booted out by baby.
Preparing the new nest If your child is old enough, create excitement by going shopping together for new bed linen or a new soft toy to share the big bed. Create a sense of continuity by moving some familiar items from the cot, such as a favourite blanket or teddy, or reposition a much-loved cot mobile over the new bed. It’s also imperative to invest in a mattress protector to ensure easy cleaning after inevitable nappy leaks and toilet-training accidents, and to prevent staining the new mattress. Remember that unlike a foam cot mattress, you can’t wash a bed mattress. Protect-A-Bed® advises parents to choose a mattress protector that’s super absorbent with a waterproof layer that won’t crinkle noisily every time your toddler shifts. It’s also a good idea to invest in two mattress protectors, so there’s always a spare on hand so that middle-of-the-night linen changes can be dealt with quickly and calmly.
Most toddlers make the move to their own beds any time between 18 months and three and a half years. Safety steps Your toddler will no longer be confined to the safety of the cot, so reassess your home for potential dangers. If the new bed has no sides, you can install bed rails, or place cushions, pillows, or folded duvets and blankets onto the floor beside the bed to soften any night-time rolling mishaps. To stop your toddler coming to any harm while wandering about unsupervised, install a baby gate across the bedroom door, and ensure stairs are barricaded. Check that your toddler can’t use her cot-climbing skills on these gates. Check that all plug points are covered, tidy up electrical cords and wind up blind cords that could be a strangling hazard. If there are items of furniture that your toddler could pull over, such as book and toy shelves, secure these to the wall with brackets. Check that windows, especially upstairs windows, can’t be opened wide enough for your toddler to fall out.
Consider starting with daytime naps in the big bed, sleeping in the cot only at night. It’s D-day All that’s left now is to make the switch. Some children are quite happy to wave goodbye to their cot and move in one jump from cot to bed. Others cope better moving over in stages. Consider starting with daytime naps in the big bed, sleeping in the cot only at night. Or let your toddler spend a few nights sleeping on the cot mattress on the floor beside the bed before making the final move. Whichever route you choose, stick to your toddler’s usual bedtime routine to lessen the upheaval.
Coping with the fallout Despite your best attempts to make the move exciting and positive, your toddler may still struggle to adjust. Moving from the security of their familiar cot can be extremely stressful for little ones, no matter how excited they might have been about that new Frozen duvet cover or Buzz Lightyear bed. Whether it’s true distress at being in a new bed, or simply the novelty of being able to hop out of bed whenever they choose, many toddlers struggle to stay put and will initially get up repeatedly. Here are two methods that can be used to keep your toddler in bed. The first is to immediately return your toddler to bed, making as little fuss as possible. Preferably don’t talk to your child, and definitely don’t get angry; any response – whether positive or negative – simply rewards the behaviour. Be prepared to have your patience sorely tried as you will probably have to return your toddler to bed twenty, thirty, even a hundred times in an evening. However, with perseverance and consistency, this method usually sorts out the problem within a few days. Otherwise try the gradual approach – it generally takes longer, but is less taxing on the nerves. Begin by sitting silently next to your child’s bed at night until she falls asleep. Over the following nights, gradually move closer and closer to the door until your child falls asleep without you in the room. If both these methods fail, your toddler may not be ready for the move. If you’re able to, consider bringing back the cot for a short period. Don’t see this as a defeat, or that you’re giving in to your child; some littlies just need more time, and may move over without fuss when you try again in a few weeks. Be patient and give your toddler time to adjust to what is a major milestone in her life, and before you know it, the cot will be a distant memory.
Protect-A-Bed’s Premium Deluxe mattress protector is available in all ‘big bed’ sizes, from single to three-quarter. And, for those night-time wandering sessions that end in mom and sad’s bed, it’s available in double, queen and king. For more information, visit www.protectabed.co.za.
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FEATURE
Smiles for Africa
Photo credit: Zute Lightfoot
Beautiful Siyabonga with his mom, Athalia.
What is a cleft lip or cleft palate? How do they develop, what causes them, and can they be prevented? Emma Dawson gets some myth-busting information about clefts from Sean Robson at Operation Smile.
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ccording to Sean Robson at Operation Smile, one in 700 children in South Africa is born with a cleft lip and/or palate; and worldwide, a child is born every three minutes with a cleft lip and/or palate. It is an extremely common birth defect that affects children regardless of their socio-economic background or race. And sadly, babies born with clefts have twice the odds of dying before celebrating their first birthdays.
What is a cleft? A cleft is a gap in the mouth or palate that didn’t close during the early stages of pregnancy. ‘Sometimes a cleft condition can be easy to see because it’s an opening in the lip whereas, other times, it’s harder to tell if someone has a cleft because it’s an opening in the roof of their mouth (called the palate),’ Sean explains. The surgery to repair a cleft lip can take as little as 45 minutes while a cleft palate may take longer.
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What causes clefts? ‘There are many risk factors that can increase the likelihood of birth defects. While some causes are still unknown, genetics and family history, pre-existing medical conditions, poor nutrition, and exposure to harmful environmental substances can affect the healthy development of a baby. As a result, these factors could also be the cause of a baby born with a cleft lip or cleft palate,’ Sean points out. ‘Researchers continue to figure out all the genes involved in the formation of a cleft condition and the interaction of these genes with the environment, hoping to avoid clefts from happening someday. For example, the protective effect of taking folic acid supplements during pregnancy in other conditions such as spina bifida has been documented, but attempts to prove the same protective effect for cleft conditions has remained inconsistent until recently,’ Sean adds.
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FEATURE What are the dangers associated with clefts? Babies born with a cleft lip and/or palate often have difficulties feeding, which in some parts of the world can lead to malnutrition or even starvation. Ear infections can occur, and recurring ear infections can lead to hearing loss. Dental development can be affected. Speech and language development can also be impaired. Children may also suffer from bullying and social isolation.
Help at hand ‘With surgery, a child suffering from a cleft lip or cleft palate can have a brand-new, beautiful smile. In an ideal situation, a pediatrician and a plastic surgeon work with a child’s parents soon after the child’s birth to choose the best timing for surgery. Most surgeons agree that a cleft lip should be repaired by the time a baby is three months’ old, and that a cleft palate should be repaired between the ages of 12 and 18 months,’ Sean explains. And for those who can’t afford it, there is also help available. Operation Smile South Africa provides free surgeries to repair cleft lip and/or palate and other facial deformities. Operating in South Africa since 2006, Operation Smile is dedicated to finding families affected by cleft lip and/or palate and providing them with surgery so they can live happy, healthy lives.
Siyabonga’s story When Siyabonga was handed to his mother, Athalia, shortly after his birth, she admits to being scared by his appearance. Siyabonga was born with a cleft lip and Athalia had never seen anything like it before. Fortunately, the doctors and nurses were able to explain that the condition was correctable and that there would be an Operation Smile mission taking place at the same hospital later in the year.
A cleft is a gap in the mouth or palate that didn’t close during the early stages of pregnancy.
With surgery, a child suffering from a cleft lip or cleft palate can have a brand-new, beautiful smile. Athalia contacted Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA) and was advised to attend the mission held in Mbombela in September 2015. In the interim, she returned home with her baby boy and faced a community confused and afraid. ‘My community asked why he looked this way, they didn’t understand. They were scared and wanted to know how he would end up in life,’ Athalia remembers. Apart from the challenge presented by the community’s ignorance of cleft lip and palate, Athalia’s greatest barrier to care was the challenge of transport and its cost. Based around 90 minutes from the nearest town, Athalia and Siyabonga live off the beaten track and finding transport was problematic. OSSA assisted them to get to the mission; and Athalia admits her relief when she arrived and saw more children with the same condition as Siyabonga. ‘I was surprised, I thought it was only Siyabonga, but it isn’t,’ she says. Siyabonga was selected for surgery and although his mother was undeniably nervous she remained confident that all would go well. When she was reunited with Siyabonga she couldn’t believe her eyes. ‘I was so happy.’ Six months later, during a post-operative trip, Athalia was still beaming with joy at the change in Siyabonga. He was charging around the garden adjacent to their home and, while Athalia says that he is a shy child by nature, since attending nursery school he has definitely come out of his shell. When Athalia considers the confusion that her neighbours expressed after seeing the results of the surgery, ‘they thought his cleft had been fixed with flesh from his leg,’ she confirms that educating communities about cleft lip and/or palate is important. For now, though, all she wants is for Siyabonga to be happy. ‘The weight has been lifted,’ she says, smiling.
Operation Smile expanded its reach to South Africa in 2006 and since its inception has conducted nearly 50 missions across Africa. OSSA currently serves as the regional hub for Central and southern Africa. Our work includes multiple missions to South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Madagascar, Ghana, Malawi and the DRC. While we continue to expand our footprint, we look back on some 6 000 lives changed and look forward to changing untold more in the future. In 10 years, with a team that exceeds 50 medical volunteers, OSSA has helped over 418 South Africans and has supported and assisted in over 38 552 surgeries across the continent. For more information, visit http://southafrica.operationsmile.org or their Facebook page @operationsmileza.
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FEATURE
A guide to
baby monitors By Emma Dawson
A baby monitor is one of the top items on your shopping list when preparing for your baby’s arrival. It’s an important piece of kit that provides security, convenience and reassurance. So, what do you need to know when choosing a baby monitor?
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baby monitor usually has two units – one that you place in the baby’s room and the other that you have with you, wherever you are. There are three general options on offer – an audio devise, an audio device with motion sensor pads, and video monitors.
Audio device Traditionally, the most common of the baby monitors is an audio device. A transmitter is placed in the baby’s room and the second unit, the receiver, is kept with you. Any sounds your baby makes are transmitted to your receiver so that you can hear your baby.
Audio with motion sensor pads or breathing monitors With this setup, in addition to a transmitter and receiver, you also have a sensor mat, which you place under your baby and then plug into the transmitter. This monitor is designed to sound an alarm if your baby stops breathing for a set amount of time. However, it has been noted that these monitors can be very stress inducing for parents because it’s not uncommon for babies to have pauses in their breathing. On the contrary, they are helpful and may be recommended by your doctor if your baby is
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premature or has breathing difficulties. If you do get one of these monitors, always follow your doctor’s advice in the case of an emergency.
Video monitors Video monitors have a camera that is mounted in your baby’s room. They transmit visual and audio signals. In some cases, these monitors also have night vision (for when the lights are off) and sensor pads. The benefit of the video option is that after a quick check on the monitor, if your baby is sleeping, you can go back to sleep without having to get up. The higher-end video monitors will connect to your home network using your Wi-Fi connection or external cloud services. With a smartphone, parents can connect via the Internet when at work or out on a date night to check on their children. An added benefit is that these monitors also double up as nanny cams.
Testing and backup Whichever unit you buy, opt for a mains and batterypowered unit that allows you the greatest flexibility and won’t stop working if the power goes out. Also, remember to test your monitor. The thickness of your walls, size of your house, and interference from radios, phones and nearby devices, will all affect the monitor’s range and signal quality. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE
How to take the heat
when suffering from
eczema
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FEATURE Did you know that heat can trigger more eczema flare ups than cold weather? Eczema sufferers not only complain about rashes during hot weather, but also experience severe itching, skin reddening and dryness. With the summer months fast approaching, The Genop research team offers some tips to help you and your little one survive the warmer weather.
Why are eczema sufferers prone to breakouts when the weather fluctuates? Winter months are tough because the dry air, cold temperature and low humidity make our skin susceptible to breakouts and flares. Hot temperatures can aggravate eczema through heat, sweating and drying out the skin.
How does heat trigger eczema? Hot temperatures cause water loss that dries out the skin. Water loss in the skin cells compromises the skin’s natural barrier, which then struggles to protect us from irritants and toxins. Hot temperatures also cause us to sweat, which brings irritants to the surface where they can trigger itching, redness and inflammation. Did you know that there are trace amounts of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, lactic acid, urea, copper, zinc, nickel, iron, chromium and lead in sweat? These chemicals can irritate the skin, especially when the humidity is high and sweat cannot easily evaporate. That is
why flare-ups are often seen in areas where sweat accumulates such as the inner elbows and neck area.
How can you prevent heat-induced eczema? . Clothing 1 Daytime: Choose loose fitting cotton clothing in soft fabrics for you and your little one during the warmer months. Layering is another way to help your little one to stay comfortable as the temperature changes throughout the day – especially if you are travelling in the car; dress your children for the trip and not the destination. Avoid synthetic fabrics because these are usually heavy and do not promote proper airflow to help the skin stay cool. Also avoid wool as it may irritate the skin. Night-time: Heat can build up under the covers so stay with cottons and avoid thick pyjamas that trap heat. Try to use cotton sheets and blankets. 2. Skin Care Bathing can help to keep the skin cool and removes irritants, but remember to avoid hot baths. Use bathing as an opportunity to put moisture back into the skin by using a suitable bath oil (such as Epi-max Bathe) that will act as a barrier to trap moisture, keeping the skin from drying out and feeling itchy. Moisturise immediately after a bath while the skin is still damp as this will lock more moisture into the skin (try Epi-max Lotion). Moisturising can also reduce the temperature of the skin, which helps to prevent it from drying out. Moisturising remains the foundation of all skin conditions and a good emollient moisturiser may be all that is required – so moisturise your skin adequately with a reputable product as frequently as possible. If the humidity is very high, opt for a lotion formula instead of a cream as it will be less greasy. 3. Temperature Control You may not be able to control the weather outdoors, but try to keep your house cool during hot months with air conditioning or cool mist humidifiers. You can also lower your little one’s temperature by using a cold compress. Simply soak a washcloth in cold water and rest it on the skin for a few minutes; repeat until the skin has cooled down.
Choose loose fitting cotton clothing in soft fabrics for you and your little one during the warmer months. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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What else can I do to prevent eczema? • Keep the temperature as cool and comfortable as possible when you are indoors. • Avoid the sun between 10:00 and 14:00 – the hottest time of the day. • Stay in the shade as much as possible and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of cold water. • Use gentle paper wipes to wipe away sweat as sweat is a main cause of irritation. • Switch to physical sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for UV protection. Eczema sufferers have sensitive skin and ingredients in a chemical sunscreen can lead to an allergic reaction. • Shower or rinse immediately after swimming in a chlorinated pool and apply a moisturiser over the whole body as quickly as possible. • Avoid antibacterial skin products as they can kill bacteria, which is required to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
A little bit of sun can be good Keep in mind that sun exposure can sometimes help eczema. It may seem like a paradox, but while hot temperatures can trigger eczema, the increased production of vitamin D in the skin (promoted by sun exposure) can relieve eczema. A shortage in vitamin D is common among eczema sufferers, so make sure your little one gets a little bit of sun on the skin, but keep it to less than an hour a day during nonpeak hours. Vitamin D improves eczema thanks to its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Moisturise immediately after a bath while the skin is still damp as this will lock more moisture into the skin. What is an emollient moisturiser and how does it treat eczema? 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. References: https://itchybabyco.com.au https://nationaleczema.org www.drwangskincare.com www.everydayhealth.com www.progressivehealth.com
Photo credit: Epi-max
Epi-max is a range of emollient moisturisers that has been proven to reduce and combat eczema in a gentle and harmless way. Epi-max Baby & Junior is a range of gentle all-purpose moisturisers for babies and children. It can be used as a soap substitute that doubles up as a moisturiser and is gentle and mild enough to use from birth. The Epi-max Baby & Junior range won Product of the Year 2017 in the Baby Care category. Epi-max is available at Clicks, Dis-Chem and selected pharmacies.
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FEATURE
The cost of
raising a child Raising a child is not cheap or easy and you need a solid financial plan in place to ensure that you can give your child the best life possible and prepare them well for adulthood. Sydney Sekese, CFP®, 2016 Financial Planning Institute’s Media Award winner, explains how to adequately plan for the costs involved with raising a child. What is the estimated cost of raising a child from birth to university? Raising a child could be likened to a second housing bond. This is because raising a child is a long-term
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commitment that could last 23 years or more; including starting that first job. So, if you already have a housing bond, the child could be considered a ‘second bond’! On a serious note, research indicates that it costs around R90 000 a year to raise a child.
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FEATURE On a straight line projection (no inflation or growth) that’s over R20 700 000 by the time the child reaches 23 years old.
What monthly costs do you need to factor in? The monthly costs to be factored in depends on the lifestyle, household income, money management and attitude of the parent. The main costs involved are education, clothing and past-time activities such as ballet classes, playgroups and soccer clubs. For those parents who can afford it, the entertainment expenses of various gadgets and toys also need to be factored into your costs. What will be your biggest monthly/annual expenses for your child?
Research indicates that it costs around R90 000 a year to raise a child. The expense of raising children is directly linked to their life-stages – they change as children age. In the first 18 months, there’s a big spike in expenses and after two years it flattens out, increasing slightly every year. There is then a further escalation of expenses that rise exponentially during early teenage years and leading into young adulthood. The job-hunting stage cannot be ignored based on the prevailing unemployment environment especially among the youth. As a parent, you will be obliged to continue supporting that young adult.
Does it become cheaper (economies of scale) with each successive child? This again depends on the lifestyle, family dynamics and preference. If a family agrees that the second child will use the firstborn’s clothing, then that could be a cheaper way of raising children. This scenario depends on the successive gender, too. Food and
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Having a plan in a form of a budget is a great way of managing expenses to ensure that parents are living within their means. ‘nappies’ inflation (and all the lifestyle and survival requirements) could be the greatest challenge of raising children in succession. The great experience of raising children will be so much more worthwhile if they are backed by a lifestyle that a parent can comfortably afford.
How do you raise a child on a budget? Most parents are ignorant of the various expenses of raising children. Having a plan in a form of a budget is a great way of managing expenses to ensure that parents are living within their means. A practical way of monitoring this budget is to create envelopes for each of the major expenses and stash receipts for review at the end of each month. If, for example, the food envelope tends to bulge each month, it means the parent is over-spending on food. A savvy strategy can be implemented. The suggested strategy could involve freezing left overs, for example. An extra chicken drumstick can come in handy as lunch. If a parent can prevent or even reduce food wastage it will help them lower their living costs.
How much should you save for your child’s tertiary education? Research indicates that education inflation increases annually by 8% to 9%, which is about 3% higher than consumer price inflation (CPI). So the savings/investment product selected should aim to outperform inflation by more than 3% over a medium to long term. It is estimated that three years of university education currently costs R300 000 to R350 000 for tuition, books, room and board, and other expenses such as a computer, cell phone and internet access. This could be projected to cost R1 million by the time a six year old attends university. This equates to roughly R3 000 per month investment assuming 6% return and assuming the child is currently six years old. Individual circumstance and affordability differ from one parent to the next. It is therefore prudent to consult a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®/CFP® professional to customise all the requirements. To find a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional in your area and for more tips on financial planning, visit www.letsplan.co.za or call 086 1000 FPI (374). You can also join the Institute’s online community on Facebook (Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa) and on Twitter (@FPI_SANews). www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE
Breastfeeding – the myths, the marvels, and the magic Annerié Conradie, a registered nurse and midwife in private practice, dispels some of the myths about breastfeeding, and shares her tips for success.
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he pregnancy journey is a wonderful one – the new mom embarks on an exciting journey of discovery; she researches, plans, buy books, and all while her body is physically changing and adapting as one of life’s biggest miracles unfolding inside her. Women share their stories with the new mother, without prompting. Some are positive and others sadly, are very negative. ‘I don’t know if I will have enough milk, I hear it’s very painful, none of the women in my family can breastfeed, what if my milk dries up or is not nutritious enough,’ are concerns raised daily by expecting mothers. However, with the right advice and support during and after the baby’s birth, the breastfeeding journey can be an enjoyable one.
The milk-making mechanism Most women can produce an adequate supply of milk. However, a common misperception is that you’re not producing enough milk. It’s important to realise that the more your baby breastfeeds, the more milk you will produce. For this reason, supplementing with formula can
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be detrimental to your milk supply. In the early days after your baby’s birth, the milk produced is called colostrum, referred to by many as the ‘Golden Liquid’ because it’s very nutritious and packed with antibodies. You should begin nursing as soon as possible after birth because your baby’s sucking instinct will be very strong at that time, giving you the best chance of success. Remember, babies are wired to breastfeed; all they need is your patience as they practice the skill. As your baby continues to breastfeed, the milk will gradually change in colour and consistency from thick and yellow, to a thinner blueish-white milk.
The latch… What if my baby does not latch? This is another common concern that is raised. New mothers are advised to put the baby in skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth. This close contact allows your baby to smell, lick and taste the breast and nipple. The root-suckle-swallow reflex is very strong and well stimulated while your baby is exploring its new environment. When a mother does struggle to get the latch right, it is advised to get help from a skilled www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE lactation consultant. The hospital staff should be able to provide you with a list of reputable consultants.
How often and how much? Newborns need small, regular feeds as the tummy size is quite small in the early days and breastmilk digests rapidly. Hence, moms should not force their babies into a strict feeding schedule and should be prepared for feedings that vary in length. It is this frequent nursing that stimulates your breasts to produce increasing amounts of milk to keep up with the baby’s demand.
How do I know if my baby is hungry? Babies are born with feeding reflexes. These include: • The rooting reflex • Baby suckling hand/fingers • Darting tongue • Baby cycles arms and legs • If held against a mother’s body, the baby does head lifting and bobbing movements
Myths about low milk supply A mother wants the best for her baby, and keeping her well-nourished is one of her biggest concerns. The following are not indicators of low milk supply: • Shorter feeds • No leaking • Small breasts • Soft breasts • Not feeling the let-down reflex • Frequent feeds • Baby not settling down after feeding • No milk expressed with a breast pump Your baby is drinking adequate amounts if she has six to eight wet nappies per day, and gains weight of about 200 to 250g per week. If you are worried about your baby’s feeding, it is advised to contact a lactation consultant to assess feeding and monitor the baby’s weight.
Signs of ‘enough milk’ is never seen in the amount of milk expressed. Frequent feeding is normal breastfeeding behaviour and not a sign of an underfed, hungry baby. Where expressing is advised, it is beneficial for the mother to do so with the necessary education and guidance of a skilled lactation consultant.
Tips for success Tips to successfully reach breastfeeding goals: • Sign up for antenatal breastfeeding education • Choose a mother baby friendly hospital • Approach your employer prior to maternity leave to establish your company’s policy regarding breastfeeding • Nursing moms should drink plenty of water • Carry on with multi vitamins and follow a nutritious diet • Be careful of quick fixes. Ask for help from a knowledgeable professional • Choose one or two people to advise with feeding; too many opinions will easily overwhelm you • Do not rely on potions/recipes to increase milk supply • Be patient • Trust your instincts Every mother’s breastfeeding journey is different. Some start with bells and whistle success, others quietly and over a longer period. When your baby is nestled on your chest, being nurtured and cared for in a way only you as the mother can, it’s in that moment where the magic lies.
When breast pumps do more harm than good Breast pumps are amazing tools for the times when a mom wants to maintain giving the baby breastmilk but is physically unable to breastfeed, for example because of work commitments or hospitalisation. Breast pumps were never meant to replace the baby at a mother’s breast. Hormone release is very different when a mother expresses versus when a baby is physically feeding on the breast. The hormone, Oxytocin (also called the love hormone), is the hormone that makes the milk available to the baby upon suckling. However, with a breast pump, the release of this hormone is compromised. In other words, a mom can have full breasts but upon expressing, not have a drop fall in the bottle. This in turn causes massive stress and panic, leading the mom to believe that she ‘has no milk’. And when the stress hormone rises, the love hormone drops. Another important factor before using a breast pump is to make sure that the cones used to express are a perfect fit for the mother’s nipple and breast size. Pain and discomfort from expressing hampers the success of expressing. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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Annerié Conradie is a registered nurse and midwife (B.Cur) in private practice in Port Elizabeth. She is a mother of two daughters (Incke 12, and Kristin 9). She has 15 years’ post-graduate experience in mother and child care and is a SACLC (South African Certified Lactation Consultant) student.
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FEATURE
Nurturing touch Providing regular, nurturing touch to your baby is most certainly one of the biggest gifts you can give to your child. And it doesn’t even cost anything. All you need are your hands and some time.
I
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Photo credit: IAIM SA
magine how different the world would be if adults treat each other with respect and act with integrity, kindness and compassion; if children grow up with a high emotional intelligence, are more relaxed and handle every-day stress effectively. Imagine a world where people are resilient and better able to cope, where there is less abuse and crime, and where people are happier, live meaningful, fuller lives and are able to have fulfilling relationships. If babies are taught from birth that they are loved, valued and respected, this may become a reality. Infant massage is about giving babies a physical massage and about bonding, communication and the interaction that takes place during the process of providing your baby and older child with regular nurturing touch. Frederick Leboyer said that babies would die if they were deprived of touch. It is also true that babies who receive regular loving touch thrive. Research shows that our childhood experience with our parents has a huge impact on our later physical and mental health. When a baby is born his brain is still forming, especially the frontal lobes – responsible for emotional and social intelligence. Every experience a baby has forms new neuronal connections in the brain. A negative experience will form a negative connection and a positive experience forms a positive connection. If a baby experiences lots of positive interactions with other human beings and especially his parents, or primary caregivers, this baby’s brain will develop positively. Infant massage is an excellent tool to provide lots of positive experiences. Before massaging a baby, parents ask permission by rubbing oil into their hands, making eye contact and asking verbally. This teaches their babies that they are respected. It gives them an opportunity to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to being touched. Parents who respect their babies’ cues show their babies that they
are valued and that they have a choice in deciding who will touch their bodies. It is so important that only parents or primary caregivers massage their baby. Massaging your baby enhances bonding, and helps to form a secure attachment that lasts a lifetime. Older children can be massaged too; and it’s never too late to start. It helps them relax, shows improved sleeping patterns, and can help with physical discomfort such as colic, constipation, blocked noses and growing pains. Regular touch and massage also helps to develop all the body’s systems – the digestive, immune, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine and nervous systems. Learn how to massage your baby by finding an instructor (countrywide), visit www.iaimsa.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE
March to
one million Help Santa Shoebox march to reach one million children by 2019.
Photo credit: Santa Shoebox
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he Santa Shoebox (SSB) Project has launched its three-year goal to March to a Million, with the aim of reaching one million children by 2019. Pledging opened on September 1, 2017. According to founder and CEO, Irené Pieters, in the last ten years the project has benefitted 652 180 children. To reach the one million mark the goal has increased to 110 000 Shoeboxes this year, 115 000 in 2018, and 125 000 in 2019. If each current donor enlists three friends to pledge a Shoebox per year, the onemillion goal will be within reach. The SSB Project has now launched its Virtual Santa Shoebox. ‘We launched this option to accommodate donors with hectic schedules, for those abroad or who are too far from a drop-off points but would still love to contribute to making a difference in the lives of underprivileged children,’ Irené says. The Virtual Santa Shoebox has convenience in mind. Donors visit the SSB website to pledge for a child selected by name, age and gender. They then choose the eight items to fill the box and to write a personal message that SSB will print onto a gift card for the child. Once the items are selected online, the SSB team packs them into decorated boxes and delivers them to children around the country. There’s also an option for a generic Virtual Santa Shoebox, which includes all the necessary contents and is available at a click of the mouse. A Virtual Santa Shoebox costs R400.
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Decorated Santa Shoeboxes need to be dropped off at central distribution points across the country on designated dates in October. The following age appropriate and new items are required to complete a Santa Shoebox: 1. Standard sized shoebox or plastic container, box and lid wrapped separately 2. Barcoded label which the donor will receive upon pledging online 3. Toothbrush 4. Toothpaste 5. Facecloth 6. Soap 7. Toy 8. Outfit of clothing 9. School supplies 10. Sweets The SSB Project is proud to be a beneficiary of The Little Optimist Trust, and will receive a free copy of The Little Optimist book for every copy purchased by a SSB supporter during the 2017 campaign. The book shares a can-do message of not being defined by your stature, by the label pasted upon you, or by your self-doubt. Copies of the book will be included in the cartons of Santa Shoeboxes being sent to children in South Africa and Namibia. For details about how to get involved or to find a drop-off point, visit www.santashoebox.org.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE
Photo credit: Gumtree South Africa
Saving is child’s play with smart second-hand shopping Whether you’re welcoming a little one for the first time or adding a new sibling to a growing family, the financial pressures of parenting can be overwhelming as costs of living continue to rise.
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new baby comes with a host of expenses from medical care to nursery items, travel equipment and nappies. But the good news is that there are several ways to get smart about saving. According to a 2016 survey conducted by Gumtree South Africa and Tums2Tots Online, South African moms tend to hold on to valuable baby goods long after their tots have outgrown them. ‘10% of women surveyed had at least R40 000 worth of unused baby goods taking up space in their homes. The items are typically purchased during pregnancy or the first few years of a child’s life, but are then relegated to the garage or spare room to gather dust,’ says Claire Cobbledick, head of core business for Gumtree South Africa. The items that most often lie dormant are car seats (34%), carriers (20%), baths (34%) and high chairs (15%) – though the biggest culprits by far are baby clothes (41%) and toys (50%). ‘Families tend to overspend on clothes and toys, buying far more than their baby needs. They’re also the items we’re least likely to sell. Most people end up giving them away when they could recover some of the expense,’ says Claire. Some parents are reluctant to buy pre-owned baby and kids’ goods because of a perception that second-hand means lower quality. However, the
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survey results suggest that many of these items are more likely to have been stored than used. With a savvy eye for quality, you can spot good deals that’ll add up to great savings, which can then be used to fund the next round of goods for your growing little one. A new car seat costs up to R3 000, but you can also find a perfectly good one for R1 000 on Gumtree – a significant saving on a must-have item. Top tip: before purchasing your pre-owned car seat, double check the safety features and ask your seller if it’s ever been in an accident. A stroller could cost you between R2 600 and R6 999, depending on its specs. However, the average secondhand price is around R1 400, including all the extra bits and bobs. A cot, which can cost up to R2 500 new, goes for around R1 500 second hand. Opting for pre-owned over new on these three essential items alone could save you as much as R6 000. From hand-knitted baby booties and cute toddler outfits, to state-of-the-art strollers and car seats, it’s easy to save when you shop second-hand. With over 15 000 baby and kids listings on Gumtree, you’re bound to find everything your little one needs, for less. Go and see for yourself at www.gumtree.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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FEATURE
The right to
fly
Photo credit: Cape Mental Health
Embrace your right to fly and to have fun at the 23rd Cape Town International Kite Festival on October 28 and 29 in Muizenberg, Cape Town, in support of Cape Mental Health.
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iters from China, England, Germany, Netherlands, South Africa and the USA will be at the Cape Town International Kite Festival to show that almost anything can fly – from fish and dragons to a little pig adorning the sky. The spectacular family festival has become South Africa’s biggest mental health awareness event and 100% of profits go to Cape Mental Health to help provide vital mental health services to children and adults in Cape Town and beyond. ‘We all have the basic right to fly – to explore our abilities, develop our skills and soar freely at home, work, school and in our communities,’ says Ingrid Daniels, director of Cape Mental Health. ‘Children and adults with mental health needs have the same
human rights as everyone else. At our 23rd Cape Town International Kite Festival we are celebrating everyone’s ‘Right to Fly’, to be accepted, respected and included.’ There will be free kite-making workshops for children and adults, as well as live entertainment, rides, a children’s play area and food market. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic. The Cape Town International Kite Festival happens on (and above) Zandvlei Nature Reserve, Muizenberg (corner Axminster and The Row). Open from 10:00 to 18:00 daily. The event offers lots of parking and easy access by train (False Bay or Muizenberg stations). Entry is R40 (R15 for children 12 years and under). Tickets will be available online and at the gate.
Cape Mental Health provides innovative and effective mental health services to people in poorly resourced communities in the Western Cape. This non-profit organisation has been active for 104 years and continues to work towards a society where people with intellectual and psychiatric disabilities are included in community life and have access to education, training, work and social opportunities. For more information, visit www.capementalhealth.co.za or www.facebook.com/CTKiteFest.
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HEALTH
Finding your health
in your genes By Rochez O’Grady, registered dietician and founder of MunchWize
Have you heard? You can now get your genes tested to find out what nutritional plan best suits your DNA. It may sound more like sci-fi than actual science but it’s true. And no, it’s not like the blood type diet! It’s nutrigenetics – scientificallyresearched genetic testing.
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ecent advances have made genetic testing available to the public and helps us to understand why some people on a high-fat diet have no problem with their cholesterol while for others it goes through the roof. So, no, banting is not for everyone. It really comes down to your unique genetic make-up.
Using nutrigenomics to our benefit This is where nutrigenetics comes in. It shows us why individuals respond differently to the same nutrients. This information is incredibly useful when it comes to being proactive and using nutrigenomics to our benefit. This science uses bioactive components in food to turn on or off certain genes, known as gene expression. Although you can never alter your genes, you can have an impact on how they’re expressed, which ultimately has a beneficial effect on processes in the body. This is particularly exciting as it allows us to create accurate, personalised nutrition plans using functional foods. There have been numerous studies that show how macronutrients, micronutrients, and natural bioactive components (for example, phytochemicals such as flavonoids and carotenoids) regulate gene expression. Your genes are responsible for every
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cellular process within the body, which means that gene expression influences our cellular defence processes. These are methylation (DNA repair process), detoxification, energy production, redox status (of which oxidation is a part) and inflammation.
What is DNA? So, let’s take a step back. What are they testing? Your DNA is made up of a double strand helix joined by complimentary base pairs. You receive 50% of your genes from each parent and when your DNA is replicated, variants occur. This means that there is a different single base pair to what there was originally. These are called Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), also known as gene variants.
How food influences genetic messages Now that we know how these variants in our genes occur, let’s get back to how these bioactive components influence genes. In nutrigenomics, nutrients act like signals and communicate with specific cells within the body. Once a nutrient interacts with the system, it alters gene expression. Simply put, what you eat directly influences the genetic message your body receives. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH Let’s look at practical examples of how these bioactive components in food can influence our genes. The bioactive phytochemical, sulforaphane, found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, is essential in assisting your detoxification process. Certain genes can be turned on (upregulated) by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are chemicals released from burning coal, oil, gasoline, tobacco or charcoal. This would be a case where gene expression can increase the risk for certain diseases through nutrition. Your DNA results will show exactly which gene variants exist and, in turn, highlight which cellular defence processes require extra support through nutrition and lifestyle. The DNA test provides you with a clear roadmap of all your cellular pathways to identify obstacles (gene variants). By knowing which nutrients or lifestyle interventions are specific to your gene set, each person will be able to know which changes to implement. The gene variants also give us information regarding appetite, satiety, eating behaviour, exercise responsiveness, taste, and many more. So, we can see that we are a complex web and everyone is an individual. This tool helps us to understand ourselves better and implement this information to our advantage.
What does testing entail?
Photo credit: MunchWize
So how do I get this DNA test? A quick cheek swab sample is sent to a genetic laboratory where your genes are analysed. These genes are low penetrance genes, which means you can affect their outcome. For example, some of your genetic results might indicate that you’re at higher risk for certain cancers. It doesn’t mean you’re going to get cancer, but rather that you’re at higher risk. The key here is to use this intelligent science to understand the dietary interventions and lifestyle changes that can be employed to assist with the prevention of disease and ensure optimal health. Once you receive the report you’ll have some valuable knowledge about how you can improve your health. Make sure that whoever does the DNA test and results interpretation is reputable. This will ensure you get the best type of individualised treatment plan that works for you.
Here is a great recipe to try. It includes wonderful anti-inflammation ingredients and is useful for detoxification and DNA repair:
Cauliflower Crusted Salmon and Kale Quiche Ingredients For the crust ½ head cauliflower, roughly chopped 2T coconut oil For the filling 3 spring onions 1 cup kale, chopped 1 baby marrow, chopped 2t Thai green curry paste 2t mixed spices 80g smoked salmon 8 eggs Salt and pepper to taste ¾ cup baby tomatoes, halved Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C 2. Blend raw cauliflower with the coconut oil 3. Place the chopped cauliflower into a medium size ovenproof dish, and use the back of a spoon to spread and press into the bottom of the dish 4. Dry-pan fry your chopped vegetables: spring onions, kale and baby marrow 5. Add some Thai green curry paste and mixed spices 6. Toss at a high heat until cooked. You can add splashes of water to prevent burning if necessary 7. Place filling on top of the cauliflower crust and then place smoked salmon strips over that 8. Whisk your eggs together, add salt and pepper 9. Once whisked, pour over filling and place halved baby tomatoes on top 10. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes 11. Serve with a side salad or vegetables and enjoy This recipe was published in Genes to Plate, Yael Joffe, Judith Johnson and Alex Royal.
Rochez O’Grady is a registered dietitian with a holistic approach to helping individuals on the journey to health. She has a passion for approaching every person that comes to see her as unique. With Sarah Gouws, Rochez is the founder of MunchWize in Cape Town and focuses on nutrigenomics and mindful eating practices. These and other tools assist her in helping individuals to achieve optimal health and behaviour change. Rochez holds a BSc Dietetics Hons (University of Stellenbosch) 2008 and is registered with HPCSA and ADSA. For more information, visit www.munchwize.co.za. Rochez O'Grady
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HEALTH
Burns:
they happen frequently so be prepared A burn is one of the most devastating injuries, causing physical scarring and mental anguish. It is estimated that more than a million patients are burned annually in Africa and, of the 18% of hospital admissions resulting from burns, 6 to 10% die.
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ry heat (such as fire), wet heat (such as steam or hot liquids), radiation, friction, heated objects, the sun, electricity, or chemicals can all cause burns. Thermal burns are the most common, when some or all of the cells in the skin or other tissues are destroyed by hot liquids or steam (scalds), hot solids (contact burns), or flames (flame burns). The symptoms associated with a burn often depend on the cause and type of burn, but can include: blisters, pain, peeling, red skin, swelling, white or charred skin, as well as symptoms of shock that can include pale skin and bluish lips and fingernails. The degree of pain is not related to the severity of the burn as the most serious burns can be painless. Burns are common especially among children. As soon as they can move, their will to explore can put their safety at risk. As most burns occur in and around the home, it is important to be alert to potential burn hazards at home. Be careful while cooking, check your appliances and make sure there are no loose cords. Be safe when you smoke or use candles. Proceed with caution while using fire gels or paraffin and educate your children about the potential dangers.
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Injuries happen quickly so be prepared in case of emergency. Most minor burns will heal on their own, and home treatment (cooling the burn for at least 10 minutes with cool or tepid running water and using an over-the-counter pain reliever for pain) is usually all that is needed to relieve your symptoms and promote healing. But if you suspect you may have a more severe injury, arrange an appointment with your doctor immediately. It’s also important to remember that when the skin is damaged, there is a higher risk of infection so it is very important to keep the wound clean and dry. Do not apply paste, oil, haldi (turmeric), butter, or raw cotton to the burn. When it is a minor burn over a small area that doesn’t require medical attention, Betadine® can be used to prevent and treat infections. It will kill bacteria, viruses and fungi that could cause your wound to become infected. You can either use Betadine® Antiseptic Solution, Betadine® Antiseptic Ointment or Betadine® First Aid Cream. Apply it liberally on the burn site and cover with a bandage or dressing. For more information, visit http://betadine.co.za/wound-care/. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH
The healing power of aloe By Emma Dawson
Long before the healing properties of plants became popular in the Westernised world, the indigenous people of southern Africa used the Aloe ferox plant for its superior antiseptic, cleansing, moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties.
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loe is a remarkable plant, and something I was fortunate to learn about first hand a few years ago when I attended the Aloe Council of South Africa’s inaugural Aloe Symposium in Albertinia in the Western Cape. We heard fascinating presentations, we toured factories that produce aloe products, and were lucky to visit a plantation and witness the ancient art of tapping the bitter sap from the aloe leaves – an art still practiced today as part of local tradition. It’s hard not to be impressed by what this plant has to offer. While documented use of Aloe dates back to ancient Egyptian times (1 500BC), Alexander the Great (356 to 323BC) and the Bible (John 19:39-40), its exact origin is unknown, although thought to be Arabian. Arguably one of South Africa’s oldest medicines, Aloe ferox was first planted for commercial use in 1976 in Albertinia. By 2013, it had an estimated retail value of R100-million. South Africa’s indigenous Aloe ferox has become a commercial medicinal plant, not only for its traditional use as laxative bitters, but more recently as an ingredient for health drinks, cosmetics, and skin and personal care products. For personal wellness, it is also well known for its healing, detoxifying, antiinflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and antiparasitic properties. When it comes to the preparation of Aloe cosmetics and personal care products, creams and salves date back to pre-Biblical times. However, while
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the technology has improved, the basics are still the same. What makes the Aloe ferox leaf so unique? According to Organic Aloe’s website, there are three sections of the Aloe ferox plant commonly used to make health and skincare products: • The green epidermis (skin) is dried and milled to produce a healthy tea and dietary fibre supplements. • The bitter sap, underneath the skin, is rich in Aloin and serves as a natural antibiotic. The powder, crystals and tablets derived from it are a great anti-fungal and detoxifying agent. • The fleshy fillet, at the core of the leaf, is rich in amino acids, minerals, vitamins, polysaccharides, enzymes and lipids. When processed into a liquid gel, these extraordinary properties are ideal for skincare products and health drinks. While the Aloe industry in South Africa is still relatively small, aloe products – which are particularly good for skincare – are widely available in retail and healthcare outlets. [Ed: A word of caution: According to Barbara Kleinschmidt, director at Totally Wild, Aloin – found in the bitter sap in Aloe leaves – is an extremely strong laxative. It can cause severe diarrhoea and if taken when pregnant could cause miscarriage because of excessive cramping and diarrhoea.] For more information, visit www.aloesa.co.za or www.organicaloe.co.za. or www.totallywild.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH
Structuring medical aid cover
to suit your pocket and needs By Damian McHugh, head of marketing, Momentum Health
The medical cover you choose needs to be flexible for your everyday and changing needs while still allowing you to prepare for unexpected incidents.
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outh Africa’s volatile economic climate and increasing household expenses often leads to consumers prioritising their budgets for more immediate expenses. Coupled with rising medical costs, this creates a formidable challenge when it comes to medical care. Cutting costs has become a financial trend in most homes in South Africa. According to the 2015 Unisa Momentum Household Financial Wellness Index, 80% of households are struggling to make ends meet. Consumers are continuously encouraged to supplement or enhance their healthcare offering by acquiring additional health insurance, such as gap cover. But many consumers are faced with questions – what are the different types of health insurance products? How will it benefit me? Will my pocket suffer or be compromised?
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Often, we have the misconception that our medical aid will cover all our hospital expenses. It’s not as simple as it looks, as we don’t plan for the unexpected. Thinking that you could be totally cared for, following an unforeseen accident in your car or at home, is untrue. Medical schemes are not run for profit, and are required by law to pay for the treatment of a defined list of 270 Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) treatments, whether you have an expensive comprehensive plan or a hospital plan. They must also pay for the treatment of 26 chronic conditions under the PMBs. Because of the potentially high cost of these claims, medical aids can mitigate some of the risk by allowing for the treatment of these PMBs through their designated service provider (DSP).
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HEALTH Health insurance products More people are finding it expensive to maintain their medical aid cover. However, many consumers have discovered that having just a medical aid is not enough to cover expenses for unexpected medical treatments, or to fund for the costs of lifestyle changes resulting from unexpected treatments. Hence, it’s become valuable for people to consider acquiring a health insurance product. Simply put, health insurance is a channel designed to further cover your medical expenses, in addition to those your medical aid covers. For example, these products could cover the difference between the rates charged by medical providers and the rates paid by your medical aid, up to certain maximum limits. Most people would ask, ‘But why does my medical aid not cover all my hospital bills?’ The answer lies with the budget allocation of a medical aid for each hospital treatment/procedure. Medical aids draft specific budgets, in which they need to negotiate with hospitals, doctors and specialists. The rate that the parties agree on is called the medical scheme rate, which operates in isolation from your health insurance. It is important to note that providers are not required to charge the agreed medical scheme rate and this then leaves the shortfall on the consumers’ shoulders to carry.
Categories of health insurance
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What you need to know Traditionally, in the event of an emergency or accident some medical insurance products provide patients with a lump sum each day that they are in hospital. It is often seen as a bridge between hospital fees and medical aid funds. Here are a few things to keep in mind when using a medical insurance product: • It may be used in conjunction with medical aid, it is not seen as a replacement to your medical aid • It covers certain accidental injuries • It gives you the option of including death and/or funeral cover • It covers treatment at fixed or stated amounts • Claims are paid to the member • It is an insurance product so the insurer can fully underwrite the risk – they can decline cover or impose exclusions and can load your premiums. Acquiring health insurance early on in your medical scheme history, regardless of what plan you’re on, is highly beneficial in planning towards unforeseen circumstances. Just as you could put money aside for a car insurance plan, so too should you take out a health insurance plan to ensure that your medical and financial well-being is met. Momentum Health is an open medical scheme that has more than doubled its membership over the past decade. Now ranked as the third largest open scheme in SA, Momentum Health members have access to a range of options as well as complementary products offered by Momentum, for example HealthSaver and HealthReturns. Momentum Health members can choose to make use of complementary products available from Momentum to seamlessly enhance their medical aid. Momentum is not a medical scheme and is a separate entity to Momentum Health. You can be a member of Momentum Health without taking any of the complementary products that Momentum offers. For more information, visit www.momentumhealth.co.za.
Photo credit: Momentum Health
In October 2016, the National Treasury tabled the third revised Draft Demarcation Regulations in Parliament, which were promulgated at the end of December 2016 and came into effect on April 1, 2017. Two categories of health insurance products are specifically provided for in the demarcation: • Medical expense shortfall policies (gap cover plans) • Non-medical expense cover as a result of hospitalisation policies (hospital cash plans). While these types of policies saw minor changes, the availability of these solutions will not be impacted. Over the last few years the shortfall between what specialists charge and what medical schemes cover has grown exponentially. Specialists increasingly charge more than a scheme’s recommended rates and members are often left with large unpaid bills. Simply put, medical expense shortfall policies (gap cover) pay the difference between what a specialist charges and what the scheme pays for in-hospital and certain outof-hospital procedures (up to a maximum limit). This does not mean that by downgrading to a cheaper medical aid plan within your scheme that you will pay less. On the contrary, by acquiring gap cover and downgrading your medical aid plan, you could be at risk of not having additional in and outof-hospital benefits when you need them the most. This is why, before making decisions such as these, you need to consult your financial adviser who will be in a position to compare your needs and finances to be able to suggest a suitable medical aid option and supplementary cover, should you need it. Consumers should downgrade for the right reasons. Should you downgrade because of affordability issues, you’re most likely still going to pay for your
treatment in some form. Downgrading your medical aid plan to acquire health insurance does not save you money. However, by using a combination of health insurance effectively, you’ll be able to save adequately for your family’s needs. There are various types of health insurance namely: • Gap cover • Hospital cash plan • Critical illness cover.
Momentum Health’s head of marketing, Damian McHugh.
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HEALTH
Healthy tummies, healthy babies By Megan Pentz-Kluyts RD (SA)
The human body is host to around 100 trillion microbes – we have more of these microorganisms than we have our own human cells, which are outnumbered by about 10 to 1.
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ur gut contains trillions of microorganisms, which make up the gut flora. These microorganisms include bacteria, viruses and fungi. Bacteria are an important part of the gut flora. Some bacteria are good for your body because they help the gut break down certain types of foods and help create certain vitamins. However, some bacteria can be harmful.
What is a probiotic? Probiotics are live microorganisms which, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Examples of foods that contain probiotics include some yoghurts, with live and active cultures, and kefir.
What is a prebiotic? Prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates that act as ‘food’ for probiotics. These non-digestible carbohydrates are fibres that our bodies can’t digest, but that the healthy bacteria in our gut feed on – to live and grow. Prebiotics help probiotics grow and remain in your digestive system. In other words, they are fuel for good bacteria. Examples of foods that contain prebiotics include breastmilk, fruit and vegetables particularly bananas, onions, artichoke and apple skin, legumes and wholegrains. Prebiotics and probiotics can help improve the balance between the friendly bacteria and harmful bacteria.
Microbiota finger print In the womb, foetuses have very little exposure to bacteria and when your baby is born her digestive
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tract is considered sterile. Your baby’s first exposure is when she makes her way down the birth canal and is initially colonised with the mom’s bacteria. After birth, kisses, holding and feeding means more bacteria is transferred to your little one. In the first few weeks of your baby’s life, her gut becomes colonised with all kinds of bacteria that influence the digestive process and her immune system. Unique combinations of microbes found in and on the bodies of breastfed babies means they tend to have different microorganisms in their gut, such as more Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which have beneficial effects on their immune systems and intestinal function. One key reason is that human milk naturally contains oligosaccharides (prebiotic), which fuel the growth of good bacteria (bifidobacteria). The type of bacteria in the baby’s gut plays a role in the production of winds, as well as influencing the sensitivity of the gut.
Maintaining good gut health The body works to keep the microbiota finger print although certain circumstances such as infections, antibiotic use, harmful bacteria ingested from food and poor diet can have negative effects. Doctors sometimes recommend probiotics for children who take antibiotics to fight things like an ear infection. This can help maintain or restore the ratio of good to bad bacteria present in their guts. One way to enhance your child’s digestive tract with more beneficial bacteria is the daily consumption of prebiotics and probiotics in food. For more information, call Rialto Foods on +27 021 555 2160/1/2. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH
Why does my child grind his teeth?
By Dr Adél Rossouw, BChD (Pret)Dip(KGM)Dip(ForOdont)
Your toddler is sleeping. You want to see his peaceful breathing and imagine only sweet dreams, but all you hear is the gnashing and grinding of teeth. What causes teeth grinding, is it bad for your child’s teeth, and what can you do to help?
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ruxism (grinding of teeth) is a medical condition when you grind your teeth in the daytime or at night. However, it is more often found at night time during your sleep. Teeth grinding is not uncommon – 38% of all children grind their teeth. It begins at around six months old and normally stops around the age of six.
and nerve exposure. It can even cause tooth fractures. If older children (eight years and older) keep grinding their teeth, it is better to take them to the dentist. Grinding can damage their permanent teeth, lead to tempero-mandibular joint disorders and facial pains, including headaches.
What causes teeth grinding?
What can you do to help?
Your child is just getting used to the sensation of having teeth. The grinding normally starts around six to eight months old when the first milk teeth appear. Your baby can’t tell you what is wrong and may start grinding when he has earache or is teething. Malocclusion (that is when your teeth don’t line up) can also cause bruxism. Breathing problems and allergies can also contribute to grinding.
• Firstly, you can offer a teething toy, such as ice teethers or teething necklaces. • Have a calming bedtime routine. • A special night guard can be made by your dentist in severe cases. This is only necessary if permanent teeth are already present. Teeth grinding can be disturbing but in small children it is mostly a temporary condition. If you are worried about your child then take him to a child-friendly dentist. Your child’s first dental visit must be in line with his first birthday. For more information, visit www.adelrossouw.co.za.
Is grinding bad for your teeth? It normally sounds worse than it is. However, grinding can cause tooth wear, which can lead to cavities
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HEALTH
The vagus nerve: why it’s important The proper functioning of the vagus nerve is vital to both physical and mental wellbeing. Dr Guy Ashburner, a registered osteopath, explains the function of the vagus nerve, the problems caused if it’s compressed during birth, and how osteopathy can help to resolve imbalances.
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he vagus nerve is responsible for regulation of the digestive system. Restriction here can cause difficulty in sucking, irritability and colic. Restrictions and strains may also be the cause of failure to thrive and developmental delays, digestive problems such as food allergies and constipation, hyperactivity disorder and learning challenges, and ear infections.
The longest cranial nerve in the body The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, beginning in the brainstem and passing through the jugular foramen (a hole in the skull) just behind the ears. It travels down each side of the neck, through the chest and down through the abdomen. The birth process, even under routine conditions, creates significant stresses and compressive forces that may be exerted onto your baby’s head, neck and associated nerves during their journey into the world. The skull is made up of some twenty-six bones. The area of the base of the skull that may become compressed is the occiput, which lies between the temporal bones behind the ears. Occipital or temporal dysfunctions can distort the jugular foramen, with possible consequences on vagus nerve function. The jugular foramen lies behind the ears, where the occiput meets the temporal bones. The vagus nerve is vulnerable where it exits the skull. The joint (between the base of the skull and the first spinal bone of the spinal column) is susceptible to jamming. A misalignment of your
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A graphic illustration of the vagus nerve.
baby’s first vertebra, the atlas, may push on the vagal nerve and irritate it. Changes in the relationship of adjacent osseous structures (bones) will alter the relationship of the soft tissue structures (dura, fascia, muscles) attached to them. This may create compression or stretch on the nerves and vessels passing in close proximity. Also, alterations in tissue relationships may impede venous and lymphatic return from the area, leading to tissue congestion and compromising neurological function.
Compression during labour During birth, too much extension of the baby’s neck as it emerges from the tight space of the birth canal can cause compression of the bottom of the head (cranial base) and the opening through which the jugular vein and the vagus nerve exit the skull, just behind the bottom of the ear. Additionally, a false labour may be damaging because the contractions occur and the baby’s head has nowhere to go because the birth canal is not opening. So, the baby is being compressed from above and below. After delivery, the mechanical forces and movements associated with breathing, crying and suckling expand the skull and correct the potential compression of the cranial bones at the points where these bones meet (sutures). However, left uncorrected this trauma continues to impact your baby’s spinal growth and development, reducing the healthy function of their nervous system. This may www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH
An osteopath aims to establish a clinical diagnosis through history, observation and clinical examination prior to treatment. cause health challenges later in life such behavioural changes and learning problems.
Gentle osteopathic treatment An osteopath aims to establish a clinical diagnosis through history, observation and clinical examination prior to treatment. For example, an osteopath may check if the atlas, your baby’s first vertebra, supports the head and rotates properly to both sides. The vagas nerve passes right in front, so a rotated atlas may push on this nerve and cause irritation and hinder nerve conduction towards the stomach. It doesn’t necessarily mean that his vagus nerve causes stomach issues. For normal development of his neck and back, your baby needs a proper neck rotation. Some babies regain mobility without treatment, but some need help. Osteopathic treatment involves the application of gentle manual techniques to the head as well as any other areas of the infant’s body that demonstrates palpable increased ligamentous/muscular tone, or decreased/abnormal articular mobility. Very light pressure is applied to the affected area until a palpable release of the relevant physical tensions and areas of dysfunction (including parts of the cranium) is achieved. An osteopath’s hands are feeling hands, they are monitoring hands. They are not pushing things around.
Osteopathic treatment involves firstly identifying the source of the fascial or joint restriction by resting their hands on the body and identifying the various subtle pulls and tensions manifested by the body fascia and joint restrictions. The osteopath will palpate changes in tissue tension until a point of resistance is encountered and then hold the tissues against this resistance or barrier (again very gently and subtly) until eventually the resistance softens and releases, and the tissues settle down to a more balanced and freely mobile state.
Strains and mechanical dysfunction The head and neck play an important role in the establishment of posture and balance mechanisms. Strains and mechanical dysfunction may present immediately after birth, or with the expression of new developmental milestones. An American doctor of osteopathy, Viola Frymann, studied 1 500 babies during the first five days of birth and found that 90% of the babies involved had suffered birth trauma and strain through the neck and cranial areas, with 10% suffering severe trauma: • 10% of the new born babies had perfect, freely mobile skulls or cranial mechanisms. • 10% had severe trauma to the head, evident even to untrained observers. • The remaining 80% all had some strain patterns in the cranial mechanism. In fact, a study by Gutmann examining more than 1 000 infants concluded that approximately 80% had some form of nerve dysfunction. This is of utmost importance since 65% of neurological development (brain and nervous system) occurs in your child’s first year. During this crucial time, it is vital that the nerve system be healthy so the child can grow and develop to their potential. Additionally, an osteopathic study of babies with colic has shown that babies cried less and slept more after osteopathic treatment. (C Hayden / B Mulinger, A preliminary assessment of the impact of cranial osteopathy for the relief of infantile colic. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, May 2006).
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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HEALTH
Caption: Teach children that they can have a treat because it’s enjoyable, and not that it has to be linked to a specific activity.
Helping children
control what they eat By Carey Haupt, dietician at Family Kitchen
Here are some tips that will help you move your children away from being comfort eaters and teach them how to be more in control of what they eat.
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find myself standing in front of the fridge with a piece of last night’s braai meat in one hand and half a carrot in the other. How did I get here, it’s mid-afternoon? I can’t remember being hungry, so why am I looking for food? Then it hits me, I am not hungry, just bored. As I thought about it, I realised how often I find myself standing in front of the fridge looking for something to eat. I am an emotional eater. I have learnt to associate specific feelings with food. When did this all start and how many calories have I eaten without realising? With a lot of introspection, I discover that I’ve been an emotional eater since I was a child. I was taught to use food as a comfort. And, to my horror, I see how I am teaching my children to use food for comfort too. When I look at friends, family and strangers I see that we’re all teaching our children to become emotional eaters. Think about it, our relationship with food is so toxic. Just bring up the
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topic of diets at any function and see the emotional response. Some people feel guilty about their diets, others are super strict and excluding foods, while others eat whatever they can. Here are some tips to help your children learn not to become emotional eaters and to be more in control of what they eat:
Don’t spell love: S W E E T S Teach your child that food is just food. Try not to use it as part of discipline or rewards. There are many ways that you can discipline or reward a child. You can use a sticker or a money chart, or go to the movies or an outing rather than receiving sweets or chocolates. By rewarding or punishing you are elevating the sweet or chocolate, which then becomes a special food that is used to celebrate an emotion. This can become a pattern of ‘I did well so let’s go out and eat’, or ‘I did something bad so I am going to sit in my room and eat’. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH Food does not have to be the comforter There are so many ways to comfort a child if she hurts herself – a hug or a kiss, reading to her if she’s upset, letting her sit on your lap, or talking to her. Help her to express her emotions and to learn how to deal with her feelings. It can be so much easier to quickly give a child a sucker to make her stop crying, but this teaches her that she needs a sweet to feel better. She doesn’t learn how to work through the emotion that she’s feeling.
Watch what you associate food with Having a special evening with the family is a great idea. Have you heard of junk food Friday night? Immediately children begin to associate the pizza, cool drink, hamburger or take-away with special family time. I absolutely love the idea of a special family night and think it is a great tradition, but take the focus off the food. If the night is about watching movies or playing board games, let that be the focus. Vary the meal each time. Sometimes have pizza, chicken wraps with salad, roast chicken and vegetables, or easy-to-eat finger foods. This way the family bonding is linked to the activity not the meal. Another example is that every time you shop your child gets a chocolate. When she is older, she’ll link chocolate to shopping and will most likely always eat one.
Enjoy food, let it be fun and interesting and don’t cut out sweets and chocolate altogether. Enjoy food Enjoy food, let it be fun and interesting and don’t cut out sweets and chocolate altogether. Help your children learn that they can have a sweet or chocolate and enjoy it. However, try not to link these to one specific activity. My kids often get a treat icecream just because we enjoy them.
Eat together For me, eating at the table is important because this is time we spend together. The children have their responsibilities laying the table, which helps them prepare for supper time. We sit together and bond. They can imitate us, learning table manners and how to eat. They also see us eating different foods and learn that it is okay to eat new foods. There are strict rules about no toys or screens at the table, which ensures that they are mindful of what they eat and are not getting distracted and forgetting to eat.
Stop eating when you’re full
Pic credit: Carey Haupt
It can be so much easier to quickly give a child a sucker to make her stop crying, but this teaches her that she needs a sweet to feel better. She doesn’t learn how to work through the emotion that she’s feeling.
Allow your child to say when she is full. This is a very important skill she needs to learn. You might have dished up too much and, by finishing her plate, she is forcing herself to eat. At the same time, it is also important that she realises that if she gets hungry later she will not get sweets or treats to fill up on.
Changing habits These are just a few ways that you can help your child to develop a healthy relationship with food. Over the next few days, be conscious of how your child is learning to relate to food. Then, one at a time, change your family’s habits so that you form healthier associations with food for the long run.
Family Kitchen is a company of dieticians who each have a special interest in different aspects of family health and nutrition. We provide one-on-one services for individuals and wellness and training services for corporate clients. We also run workshops on nutrition-related topics such as breastfeeding, complementary feeding, fussy eating or disease of lifestyle. For more information, visit www.familykitchen.co.za.
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HEALTH
Understanding meningococcal meningitis
Neisseria meningitidis or meningococcus is a bacterium that can cause meningitis and other forms of meningococcal disease.
The best defence against meningococcal disease is keeping up to date with recommended vaccines. Here’s an outline about what meningococcal meningitis is, how it’s transmitted, and how to spot the symptoms.
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everal different bacteria can cause meningitis. Neisseria meningitides (meningococcus) is the one with the potential to cause large epidemics.1
What is meningococcal meningitis? Meningococcal meningitis is a serious infection of the thin lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It can cause severe brain damage and is fatal in 50% of cases if untreated.1
How is it transmitted? Meningococcus is transmitted from person-to-person through droplets of respiratory or throat secretions from carriers. Close and prolonged contact – such as kissing, sneezing or coughing on someone, or living in close quarters (such as a dormitory, sharing eating or drinking utensils) with an infected person (a carrier) – facilitates the spread of the disease. The average incubation period is four days but can range between two and 10 days.1 Neisseria meningitidis only infects humans; there is no animal reservoir. The bacteria can be carried in the throat and sometimes, for reasons not fully
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understood, can overwhelm the body’s defences allowing infection to spread through the bloodstream to the brain. It is believed that 10% to 20% of the population carries Neisseria meningitidis in their throat at any given time. However, the carriage rate may be higher in epidemic situations.1
Symptoms The most common symptoms are a stiff neck, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches and vomiting. Even when the disease is diagnosed early and adequate treatment is started, 5% to 10% of patients die, typically within 24 to 48 hours after the onset of symptoms. Bacterial meningitis may result in brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability in 10% to 20% of survivors.1 Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best defence against meningococcal disease. 2 References: 1. The World Health Organisation. WHO. Media centre. Meningococcal meningitis. Available from http://www.who.int/ mediacentre/factsheets/fs141/en/ . Accessed on 30 August 2017 2. Centers of disease. CDC. Available from https://www.cdc.gov/ meningococcal/index.html. Accessed on 30 August 2017.
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HEALTH
Drought could worsen hayfever symptoms The ongoing drought in the Western Cape could have dire implications for nasal allergy sufferers as we head into the sneezing and streaming season.
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icole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics – one of SA’s leading providers of antihistamine medication – says that while pollen levels decrease in times of drought, rainfall days are fewer too, which means there is less relief for those with a sensitivity to pollen. ‘Rainfall generally washes pollen and fungal spores from the air, which occurs less often in drought years. During a normal spring season, grass levels rise slowly
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as they do when rain interrupts pollen release, and sensitised individuals have a slower exposure to pollen levels. When no or little rain falls, the exposure to significant pollen counts is sudden, which may exacerbate seasonal pollen symptoms,’ Nicole explains. To help combat the effects of more severe hayfever seasons that are likely to become the norm, Pharma Dynamics has partnered with pollen www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH sampling experts from UCT’s Allergy and Immunology Clinic to provide sufferers in the Western Cape with weekly pollen counts. This arms patients and healthcare providers with vital information to manage symptoms more effectively. Access to pollen data can assist diagnosed patients to avoid outdoor activities when counts are high and can prompt them to increase their dose of preventative therapies, such as antihistamines following the advice from a doctor, especially during pollen peaks,’ Nicole explains. Based on a recent Pharma Dynamics’ survey, a whopping 42% of the 2 650 hayfever sufferers polled don’t have a plan in place to control seasonal symptoms, while 48% of those prescribed an allergy medication only take it when they feel they need to. Jennings says non-adherence plays a big role in rendering medications (of all kind) ineffective. Some patients may be resistant to using their prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medication on a regular basis, while others try it for two to three days, get no relief, and stop usage even though it may take up to two weeks to reduce symptoms. There are also those who stop using their medication when symptoms abate, only to become symptomatic again.
While pollen levels decrease in times of drought, rainfall days are fewer too, which means there is less relief for those with a sensitivity to pollen. ‘Besides incorrect dosage, taking medicine improperly decreases the treatment’s efficacy. Few people know how to properly use a nasal spray or inhaler – the direction of the spray is critically important. Or they forget to take it. A good idea is to link taking the medication with routine activities, such as brushing your teeth,’ Nicole advises. Another way to alleviate symptoms is to avoid exposure to the allergen. Stay indoors when pollen counts are high and use an aircon at the office, home or in the car for ventilation. ‘Pollen is a trigger for an estimated 30% of South Africans and, in severe cases, can trigger a fatal attack. Uncontrolled hayfever or allergic rhinitis adversely affects asthma, making chest symptoms more difficult to control. Allergies don’t cut you any slack, so stick to your regimen until the worst of the season is over,’ Nicole advises. Western Cape pollen counts are available at www.allergyexpert.co.za or www.pharmadynamics.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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HEALTH
How to create a
first aid kit
This article unpacks the importance of a first aid kit and its essential contents so that you’re prepared for situations where urgent treatment for an injury is required – or when professional medical care is either unavailable or unnecessary.
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urse and first aid author, Linda Buys, says SA’s common first aid emergencies include accidental injuries such as minor cuts and lacerations, foreign objects in fingers and feet, muscle sprains, strains and cramps, burns, chemicals or foreign objects in eyes, poisoning, and asthma attacks.
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Of these, the most common incidents at home are: Burns and scalds Cuts and grazes Ingesting chemicals Fever Headaches Insect bites
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HEALTH Medicinenet advises that your first aid kit can’t do without the following:
Basics • Adhesive and duct tape, to hold a dressing or splint in place • Butterfly bandages to hold the edges of a cut together • Non-stick sterile bandages, for simple cuts or abrasions • Sterile gauze to control bleeding and prevent contamination • Sterile roller bandages to support sprained or sore muscles • Anti-itch lotion for relief of insect bites, itching and minor skin irritations • Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection of minor wounds • Antiseptic ointment, solution, spray or wipes for cleansing wounds • Cotton wool, cotton balls, and cotton buds or swabs • Disposable non-latex medical gloves (several pairs) To these, the Mayo Foundation adds: • Eye shield or pad • Eyewash solution • Triangular bandage • Sterile burn gel and burn dressings • Aluminium finger splint • Instant cold packs • Plastic bags, assorted sizes • Safety pins, assorted sizes • Scissors and tweezers • Hand sanitiser • Thermometer • Bulb suction device for flushing wounds • Syringe, medicine cup or spoon • CPR mouthpiece (breathing barrier)
Medications • Aloe Vera gel • Calamine lotion • Anti-diarrhea medication • Laxatives • Antacids • Antihistamines • Pain relievers • Hydrocortisone cream • Cough and cold medications The required quantity of these items depends on the size of your family or on the specific trip, but your pharmacist can guide you.
Extras • • • • • •
Small waterproof torch Batteries and spares Waterproof matches Small notepad and pencil Emergency space blanket Emergency whistle Of course, you can also add your own medications to the bag. In this case, the American National Red Cross offers the following advice: 1. Don’t share your personal prescription medication with anyone, even if they use the same medication. 2. Mark any headache, pain relief, anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medication accordingly, and store it in a childproof container. 3. Ensure that only responsible adults can access, use, and dispense medications.
Useful tips for first aid Essential First Aid Supplies offers the following handy reminders: 1 Keep your first aid kit well maintained, properly stocked and up to date. 2 Keep it locked and in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. 3 Make sure the entire family and all caregivers know where the kit is kept and what it contains. 4 Consider including a basic first aid manual or instruction booklet. 5 Resist the temptation to over stock your kit with random items. 6 Paramedics’ must-have items are: a CPR mouthpiece, something to stop bleeding, splint fractures, and medical gloves. 7 Never touch blood or body fluids without wearing medical gloves. 8 Replace any items as soon as possible after you’ve used them. 9 If you haven’t used the kit in a while, choose one day a year to audit it. 10 When faced with an emergency, try to provide the best assistance you can to the injured person but always ensure your own safety first. ‘The moment you feel inadequate and insecure when treating a patient, you can make a phone call to a medical officer, your pharmacist, or your doctor’s consulting rooms, for advice,’ Nurse Linda Buys adds. She also shares her three secret weapons: ‘Colloidal silver spray works wonders on all cuts, [healing] burns, eye injuries, eye infections, throat “burns”, and tonsillitis.’ She suggests that a mentholated topical ointment works for earache, a deaf feeling in the ear, and to remove earwax or smother any insects in the ear. For burn wounds, her best tip is: the sooner you rinse the area with cold water, the better the outcome.
The Self-Medication Manufacturers Association of South Africa (SMASA) aims to promote self-care and to enable consumers to responsibly and appropriately self-medicate and self-treat primary ailments where possible. As such, SMASA represents companies involved in the provision, distribution and sale of healthcare products. SMASA also engages actively in legislative, regulatory and policy development. For more information, visit http://smasa.za.com.
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HEALTH: ADVERTORIAL
Be a breastfeeding pro Breast is best, especially in your baby’s first year. Breast milk contains easily digestible fats, cholesterol (important for brain and nerve tissue), and the vitamins, minerals and proteins that protect baby’s immune system. For first-time moms worrying if their babies are feeding properly, these tips may help.
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ou can be sure your baby is getting enough milk if:
• Y our breasts feel softer after nursing. • Y our baby seems relaxed and satisfied after a feed. • Y our bundle of joy produces at least six to eight very wet cloth nappies or five very wet disposable nappies (which hold more liquid than cloth) in 24 hours. The urine should be odourless and pale in colour. • Y our baby is gaining weight, has a healthy skin colour and muscle tone, and is alert and reasonably contented. Signs your baby may not be getting sufficient milk: • W atch baby’s weight. Babies usually regain their birth weight after five days. If not, you need to address your milk supply. • Y our baby wets fewer than eight cloth or six disposable nappies in a 24-hour period. If the urine is dark (think apple juice), your baby is short on fluids. • Y our baby is producing small, dark stools after about five days. • Y our baby is fussy or lethargic and falls asleep when you put it to your breast, and feeding takes longer than an hour. • Y our breasts don’t feel softer after nursing. Your milk supply generally settles to suit your baby’s needs. Illness or stress can affect production, but eating properly and these tips should regulate your supply: more oats, salmon, fruit, leafy greens, carrots, • Eat garlic and barley, and drink 6 to 8 glasses of liquid a day. • S ucking stimulates milk production – feed at least eight times in 24 hours. • O ffer both breasts at each feed, massaging each gently while nursing to help the rich, higherkilojoule hind milk let down. Flora Force Fenugreek helps stimulate breast milk supply and Flora Force Fennel helps trigger the letdown reflex, which is useful for working moms unable to use a pump. Note: Do not use during pregnancy. For more information, visit www.floraforce.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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EDUCATION
Social media:
does it define your teenager? By Anthony van Rensburg, principal of Abbotts College Pretoria East
Teenagers, particularly, keep themselves occupied for hours on social media and, for them, the idea of staying online on their phones whilst texting, sharing, trolling, scrolling, linking, liking (you name it), is more important than speaking and communicating face to face.
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f you want your teenage child’s attention, mention the words social media – a concept that didn’t exist two decades ago and replaced words and concepts unfamiliar to teenagers, such as telegram and postal stamps. Even in the most remote areas of the world, concepts such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are easily understood by the youth.
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EDUCATION Social media has only been around for a relatively short time, yet we cannot imagine a world without it.
Social skills One thing is certain, modern teenagers are learning to do most of their communication while looking at a screen, not at another person. The sad thing is that teenagers are missing out on former social skills, where they could hang out together at the cinema, try out new skills, and succeed and fail in real time interactions such as chatting, teasing, joking and touching and flirting. Teenagers are not adequately learning the skills to understand real body language, facial expressions, and even the smallest variations in vocal tones indicating the feelings and emotions of another person.
Real-life friends Learning how to make friends is a major part of growing up, and friendship requires a certain amount of risk-taking. Real friends listen to and understand your problems, and this is where the skill of honesty is developed – where a real friend will respond honestly about how they feel about your problem. The use of social media causes teenagers to often share their problems with a whole lot of friends, with whom they have no real emotional connection. This often leaves them exposed and vulnerable to emotional hurt when they receive a response from an online friend who responds with almost no caution or emotion. Yes, it’s easy to keep your guard up by texting your problem, rather than to verbalise it to another person, but the full emotional impact of words is often not seen by the respondent. You are not hearing or seeing the effect of your words on others. In fact, teenagers today struggle to make telephone calls, because the thought of a verbal discussion if often just too intense for them.
Adding to anxiety If teenagers are not getting enough practice relating to people and getting their needs met in person and in real time, many of them will grow up to be adults who are anxious about our species’ primary means of communication – talking. And of course, social negotiations only get riskier as people get older and begin navigating romantic relationships and employment. Then there is also the risk of a teenager falling victim to cyber bullying. Social media has made it easy for kids to get really cruel with one another – and this, according to studies, is more prominent with girls who typically do not like to disagree with one another in ‘real life’. Parents try to teach their teenagers that they have the right to disagree as long as this does not jeopardise relationships, but with social media, this is often done in ways where it will become very extreme and relationships do suffer in the end. Peer acceptance is vitally important for adolescents. It’s as if your child is a politician running for the next elections. The actual ‘polling data’ they receive in the form of ‘likes’ and ‘shares’ determines their self-esteem. Teenagers can spend hours pruning their online identities, trying to project an idealised www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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image of themselves. They edit photographs to make themselves look better, funkier and socially accepted. Teenage girls sort through hundreds of photos, agonising over which to post online. Boys compete for attention by trying to out-gross one other, pushing the envelope as much as they can in the already disinhibited atmosphere online. This is where they often ‘gang up’ on each other.
An endless cycle Another problem with social media, is that each of your child’s moves can be determined without much effort. Teenagers make themselves targets for being stalked and are often followed by strangers. They update their status frequently, share what they’re watching, listening to, and reading, and have apps that let their friends know their specific location at all times. Because of this hyper connectivity, teenagers can be contacted by any one of their online friends and any given time – conversations never really end and there is always something hot and new happening to discuss. They never get a break from this and it often causes teenagers to be more anxious and emotionally depleted. However, if your teenager is given the silent treatment by his friends, this leads to problems such as depression and a feeling of isolation and loneliness, which is real to them and difficult for parents to understand.
What should parents do to assist their teenagers? • Keep modelling good tech behaviour. Don’t use your phone at the table and make sure your kids don’t need to compete with a screen for your attention. • Encourage privacy. Whatever age your family decides is appropriate for social media, make sure that your child is very careful about privacy. Research privacy settings with him and make sure he understands when something is public or private – or somewhere in the middle – and how that should affect what he posts. As a rule, teenagers shouldn’t share anything online that they wouldn’t be comfortable with the entire world reading. Including their grandmothers. • Yes, to friending, no to spying. If your child is on social media, recommend that you follow or friend him, and monitor his page. • Make it clear that exposed pictures are a bad idea, and explain why. Sometimes kids think sharing photos is a way to build trust, but it can do the opposite just as easily. These are some innocent ways the pictures could get into the wrong hands – and there are a lot of less innocent ways they could, too. And once the pictures are out there, they can damage future relationships and job prospects, not to mention become the talk of the school. • Texting can be tricky. Warn your teenager that it’s easy for people to misinterpret messages when they aren’t hearing the tone of your voice or seeing the expression on your face. Guard against joking as this can easily come across as mean. For more information, visit www.advtech.co.za.
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EDUCATION
The importance of
sports and games in school
By Mariska van der Watt, grade one teacher at Trinityhouse Northriding
Sports stimulate children’s physical and mental growth. People who regularly play sports develop healthy bodies, better body strength and better coordination. The physical benefits also include maintaining a healthy weight, preventing chronic diseases, and learning the skills necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
‘A
healthy mind resides in a healthy body’ is an unavoidable necessity for all, particularly for a school-going boy or girl. Enhancing children’s physical and mental development is certainly the most important contribution of sports, but the list of values a child may acquire through sports does not end here. The positive aspects are numerous and reveal the true beauty of sport. Sport teaches children the important lesson of team spirit, and it gives them the experience of working with different kinds of people in different situations. Playing sports enables children to create friendships they otherwise might not have formed. Sports and games can be a great lesson in time management and they provide the spirit of competition that drives them to give extra effort. Through sports, children learn to respect authority and rules. Sport increases self-esteem, mental alertness and it reduces stress and anxiety. Good sportsmanship provides guidelines that can be generalised to classroom and life-long
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achievement. Participation in challenging sports contests teaches children to love challenges. It also teaches them to function in a competitive society. Sport helps to build character and discipline, and it gives children the confidence of being an individual with overall development. Nothing else in life affords children such opportunities to develop positive character traits and to soak up many quality values as sports does. Sports should be encouraged by parents and teachers. Children first need to get used to playing sports, accept it, and get to like it. It will become part of a child’s everyday life. Let them see the values of sports for themselves. As teachers and parents, we must be the example. We must make sports and games fun, and we must play by the rules. Viewing games or playing sports together often facilitates emotional bonding and develops a love for the game. As long as a child is involved in sports, he will learn how to overcome obstacles and challenges that will come his way. Isn’t that what we all want for our children? For more information, visit www.advtech.co.za. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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EDUCATION
Getting the
balance right By Nigel Sloane, headmaster at Pecanwood College: Preparatory
Modern life is rushed and busy. It’s not just adults who are struggling to find a balance, it appears children are too.
A
t school, children have a busy morning in the classroom where they are under considerable pressure. Then, in the afternoon many schools offer sport, cultural and other activities. Later at home, children are expected to plough through their homework. At weekends, there might be more sport, invitations to friends’ houses or a special programme on TV.
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For the privileged children who do have access to wide-ranging activities and opportunities, the question that many parents ask is, ‘how can my child get the balance right between school work, sport, school activities, social time and relaxation?’ It is vital that children take full advantage of all the opportunities offered to them? There is no real answer as it really is a case that all children differ. Some thrive www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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EDUCATION on being busy and cope incredibly well and others find that they are sinking rather than swimming. Isn’t this the case with so many adults, too?
It’s all in the planning The secret is planning. In the case of primary school children, the duty of the parent and child is to look at all the options. At the start of each term, parents and children need to schedule non-negotiable aspects such as schoolwork and homework first. Having an organised and disciplined approach to academics will pay dividends, not only in scholastic results, but in preparing your child for a future in the not-too-friendly workplace out there.
Reading plays such a role in all academic subjects, as well as enriching a child’s general knowledge.
A healthy lifestyle A healthy lifestyle is also a vital aspect – not only for healthy development but also for inculcating good lifetime habits. However, a child must not be pushed into an activity where he or she has a distinct dislike of the sport. This will have the reverse effect and actually kill the child’s attitude to sport. Just because Dad enjoyed rugby at school does not mean that Johnny should have the same passion. Parents should encourage without being too prescriptive. Remember that it is ‘horses for courses’ and the child must look forward to the activity. Sadly, peer group pressure often plays a role and boys may be forced into sports to gain acceptance from contemporaries. Beware of becoming too competitive at too early an age. It is distressing to see parents of eight- and nine-year old boys screaming from the side of the rugby field. A competitive spirit is something that will develop naturally within a child and does not need to be fostered by an aggressive over-involved father.
Getting creative Right brain or creative activities should also play a role in your child’s life. Whether painting, craft work or playing a musical instrument, it can be incredibly beneficial for the mind as well as for gross and fine motor control. You will see how an apparently musically unenthusiastic child takes to the challenge of playing of drums.
Socialising Children should also be encouraged to spend time with friends, although I would encourage them to have some sort of focus. Going to a movie or playing a game is to be encouraged. Vegetating with a
At all costs, parents should be restricting cell phone contact with friends during the school week. www.babysandbeyond.co.za
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friend and sending text messages to other friends in not regarded as social activity, and this sort of behaviour should be limited. Where possible, contact with friends should be limited to weekends and holidays. At all costs, parents should be restricting cell phone contact with friends during the school week.
Budding bookworms Reading is something that is sadly lacking in many children’s daily routines. This is particularly the case for boys. Twenty minutes before bedtime will pay rich dividends. Reading plays such a role in all academic subjects, as well as enriching a child’s general knowledge. A reluctant reader should be encouraged by giving him books or even magazines that focus on his particular interests, whether motor racing, sport or dinosaurs.
Time out In the schedule, there should of course be time to do the vegetable bit. Lounging in front of the TV on a Sunday afternoon, lying on their beds, or playing computer games, should be allowed from time to time although it must never be allowed to become too much of their lifestyle. As adults, we need time out, and this privilege should also extend to our often-overextended children. Free time, even when apparently no real input is occurring, is important for the child.
Sleep Part of getting the balance right is looking at sleep patterns. Although all children are different in their needs, it is vital that your child gets enough sleep. It is blatantly obvious to any experienced teacher who, when greeting their class first thing in the morning, can see who did not get enough sleep the night before. A tired mind and body cannot be receptive in the classroom. As with all things in life, it is about getting the balance right. Between academics, sport, a social life, sleep, relaxation and creative activities, no one will ever find the perfect balance. However, the secret is to find out what makes our children tick and what puts smiles on their faces while, at the same time, gives them a broad based and healthy view on life. For more information, visit www.advtech.co.za.
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EDUCATION
The importance of
camp
By Jane Henderson, head of English at Southdowns College Preparatory School
Child development professionals recognise the camp experience as valuable in helping children mature socially, emotionally, intellectually, morally and physically. Here’s why. 74
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EDUCATION
Development of social skills Most activities at camp involve team work, which strengthens established friendships and develops new friendships by connecting with children they don’t regularly talk with at school. Through bonding activities, children develop supportive relationships with different children, as well as with their teachers. While at camp, children learn about acceptance, caring and understanding. They learn that their relationships benefit from investment, and that the team benefits as a whole when individual relationships are strengthened. Contributing to the success of the group is empowering to each individual.
Development of independence and resilience skills For many children, school camp is often the first time away from family and home for a few nights. While culture continues to allow people to seek out what’s enjoyable and avoid what’s unpleasant, camp nudges children to move out of their comfort zones. So, while our conveniences make life easier in so many ways, there are experiences missing that provide growth, strengthening our values, confidence and development for times of adversity. Camp experiences grow confidence and develop good decision-making skills – especially when times are tough. Children’s confidence grows as they accomplish tasks that seemed impossible. This accomplishment is empowering. They also learn who to accept guidance from in a world that can be filled with some pretty bad advice on TV, in movies and among some friends.
Development of new skills
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he building blocks of self-esteem are belonging, learning and contributing, and camp offers distinctive opportunities for children to succeed in these vital areas. At camp, children learn to problem solve, make social adjustments to new and different people, learn responsibility, and gain new social skills to increase their self-esteem.
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While on camp, children are exposed to new activities that they may not have tried before. They display a willingness to try new things by being adventurous and testing their limits and decision making to get through various situations. Living in a cabin/tent/dorm, climbing ropes and overcoming obstacles are life accomplishments young people can develop that build strength of character, courage, determination and focus on something bigger than themselves. Children who only accept comfortable situations find themselves limited in confidence, courage and flexibility. Through new experiences, children are pushed into positions to grow in life and when that happens, they accumulate the understanding of what it takes to be a productive, independent adult. Whereas schools often applaud good marks, camp acknowledges and rewards a broader range of accomplishments. It creates an environment where each child feels valued for their contribution. For more information, visit www.advtech.co.za.
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Grab some grub
Watermelon Salad with Feta Make the most of watermelon while in season. When out of season use ripe tomatoes.
Ingredients
¼ small seedless watermelon, cut into wedges 2 wheels feta cheese (see tip below) ½ cup (125ml) pipped black olives handful of fresh mint leaves butter lettuce Ina Paarman’s Reduced Oil Greek Dressing
Method
Prepare the watermelon, feta and olives. Line a platter with lettuce and mint. Top with prepared ingredients. Dress just before serving. Ina Paarman’s Caesar Dressing is also an excellent choice to dress a salad.
Ina’s tip
To halve the rings of feta into two flatter disks, tie dental floss or cotton thread round the disk and cross over ends to halve the feta wheel (see pic below).
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Grab some grub
Granadilla Ice Cream A healthy, calcium and fruit rich, homemade treat.
You will need
Utensils pair of scissors medium size mixing bowl measuring jug and spoons small mixing bowl spatula electric beaters large spoon piping bag (optional) small paper cups wooden ice cream spoons (optional) cocktail umbrellas (optional)
Ingredients
1 x 250g Ina Paarman’s Lemon Flavoured Cheesecake Mix ¾ cup (180ml) cold water 1 cup (250ml) fresh cream 1 cup (250ml) plain full cream yoghurt ½ cup (125ml) granadilla pulp, fresh or tinned ± 4 granadillas
Method
Open the Cheesecake box and remove the foil bag. Cut open the bag. Measure cold tap water into a medium size mixing bowl. Sprinkle the Lemon Flavoured Cheesecake Mix over the water and beat until well blended. Leave in the fridge for 10 minutes. In a smaller mixing bowl whip the cream until firm, fold through the yoghurt.
Remove cheesecake mixture from the fridge. Using the same beaters, whip the mixture again until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream and yoghurt together with the granadilla pulp. Use a spatula or metal spoon. Stir until evenly blended. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake mixture into small cups. Piling it up generously and rounding the tops. Freeze. Supply wooden ice cream spoons and decorate with cocktail umbrellas before serving.
Recipes and pictures courtesy of
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keepsake toys blankets & pillows made from special clothes www.cherishme.co.za 083 560 8320
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promising products
Babe-Eeze 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mat
M
Photo credit: Babe-Eeze
ost parents know the nightmare mess if their babies flip over their bowls of food at mealtimes. The new BabeEeze 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mat is a clever innovation that suctions directly to the table, making it virtually impossible for toddlers to tip over their food bowls. The 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mat has five compartments that separate and vary food choices, reminding parents to serve a veggie, protein, carbohydrate and fruit to make up a well-balanced diet and help babies to cultivate good eating habits. The bowl’s design is great fun and puts kids in the right mood for a positive mealtime experience. Babe-Eeze 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mats fit onto most highchair trays and are made from 100% food-grade silicone that is BPA, BPS, PVC and phthalate free. It is designed for infants and toddlers from 6+ months or whenever they begin the weaning process. The Babe-Eeze 2-in-1 bowl and feeding mats are available in three colours and are dishwasher safe, microwave and oven proof up to 200°C. Babe-Eeze 2-in-1 bowl feeding mats are available from Dis-Chem and independent pharmacies for around R300. For more information, visit www.numerator2000.co.za.
Parenting from the palm of your hand
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Photo credit: Child Friendly SA
he new Child Friendly SA App, available for free on the App Store and Google Play, offers a quick, easy solution to help parents-on-the-go make more of their own day and their kids’ lives. With over 10 000 listings of child-friendly activities, services and shops, readily accessible from your smartphone, the App offers a wealth of interesting ideas and valuable shortcuts to enriching your family life and managing it more efficiently. If you ever searched the web for anything related to your kids, you will find it on this App. Information is presented in more than 200 categories and sub-categories, covering the needs of kids from birth to the end of their high school years. Developed by an award-winning digital development agency together with two well-seasoned and engaged parents as the entrepreneurs behind this initiative, the Child Friendly SA App follows a careful flow of logic based on what parents have used to search the web for many years. Once you have found what you need, state-of-the-art App functionality allows you to call, email or share with friends directly from the App. The shortest route is mapped and you can even order an Uber from within the App. If you need further information, you can click through to the listed business website. Mark your favourites for quick reference in future, and opt in or out to receive regular notices on exciting events in your area, special deals, or to enter great competitions. Parenting might be the toughest job in the world, but also the most rewarding. Allow this innovative Child Friendly SA App to smooth the journey. Join ChildfriendlySA on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. For quick, easy links to download the free App, visit www.childfriendlysa.co.za
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promising products
Love your toddler’s scooter but not the noise?
F Photo credit: Silent Scooter
or kids, nothing beats the thrill of riding their first motorbike but for parents and teachers, few noises can rival the racket these little bikes make. Now, with Silent Scooter, an innovative new rubber wheel add-on for existing plastic bikes and a first in South Africa, this is all about to change. Silent Scooter is the brainchild of brothers Derick and Pierre de Villiers. Although not parents themselves, the two farmers from the Kroonstad area challenged themselves to find a solution for noisy kids’ scooters. Silent Scooter is a rubber wheel that is placed over the standard plastic wheels of existing ride-on bikes. The rubber wheels are soaked in warm water to soften them and then slipped over and glued onto the plastic wheel using the supplied adhesive. Quick and easy, Silent Scooter effortlessly transforms noisy bikes and trikes into simply sublime silent scooters! Only the best quality materials are used in the production of the rubber wheels, which have been extensively tested by both children and their parents before being patented. Silent Scooter is currently available in one size (standard size for standard-sized wheels) for R150 per set of three wheels. For more information, email sales@silentscooter.co.za.
Pack light with Mini Travel SoyLites
Photo Credit: SoyLites
C
reate ambience around you and enliven your senses while indulging your skin at the same time with a new product – Mini Travel Lites – in the moisturising candles range from SoyLites. These environmentally-friendly candles not only burn beautifully, scenting the air with a blend of aromatherapy oils, but can also be used as a moisturising and nourishing skin treatment. Made with 100% natural, cosmetic-grade soybean oil, SoyLites’ Mini Travel Lites burn to form a pool of warm oil around the wick. Simply dip a finger in and apply this luxurious, moisturising oil packed with anti-oxidant vitamin E and restorative lecithin to your skin. As a natural alternative to regular T-Lites, the Mini Lites have a longer, cleaner burn. Each 15ml Mini Travel Lite has a seven-hour burn time, and comes with a lid, making it perfect for travel. Mini Travel Lites are available in all SoyLites’ 10 standard moisturising aromatherapy blends, such as the frangipani, lemon and bergamot blend used in Clarity, or the lemongrass, lavender and lime of Rejuvenation. They are available in a six-pack of assorted fragrance blends at a recommended retail price of R175, or individually at a recommended retail price of R30. For more information, visit www.soylites.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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promising products
Play and learn
H
ape is a German manufacturer and designer of the world’s largest collection of wooden toys. The premium-quality brand promotes playand-learn therapy and is suited for kids aged 0 to 6 years and up. With 17 retail stores in South Africa, Toy Kingdom brings together unrivalled quality toys, beautifully designed stores and friendly and knowledgeable staff who encourage children and parents to interact and play with the toys. Two not-to-miss toys from Hape at Toy Kingdom include:
Colorback Sea Turtle This turtle will help your children to develop fine motor skills and introduce them to problem solving methods that include logic, matching, spatial relationships, critical thinking, and an understanding of cause and effect. Age group: 24 months+ Price: R 299.90 Photo credit: Toy Kingdom
Super Moose Build up giant antlers on the moose without tipping him. It’s a balancing act! Balancing takes a steady hand. Begin to play using only six antlers, and gradually work up to twelve. Age group: 3+ Price: R 119.90 For more information, visit www.toykingdom.co.za.
All Gold’s limited edition bottles
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Photo credit: All Gold
or well over 100 years, All Gold Tomato Sauce has been a firm favourite in South African meals and snacks. thanks to its one-of-akind flavour-filled taste. A trendsetter of note, South Africa’s most loved Tomato Sauce is once again turning up the magic with the launch of two 700ml limited edition collectable bottles. These limited-edition painted bottles are available in two designs. The first is the ‘Crammed Full of Tomatoes’ design, which celebrates the fact that All Gold Tomato Sauce is crammed full of real tomatoes, and free of thickeners, colourants and preservatives. The second bottle, the ‘Crammed Full of Local Flava’ design, embraces All Gold’s tradition, which is intrinsic to our rich local South African heritage. The design includes classic South African-isms, favourite foods and colourful greetings that South Africans from all backgrounds and walks will identify with and enjoy. Only two million bottles have been produced, so die-hard All Gold Tomato Sauce fans are urged to stock up on their keepsakes before the shelves are cleaned out! Unlimited fun times are on the cards with a ‘Design Your Own Bottle’ microsite that is being launched soon. For more information and ‘taste-real-good’ recipes, visit www.allgold.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 84
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KICKS FOR KIDS
babys beyond and
a family lifestyle magazine
Fishy facts Did you know that fish are one of the oldest animal families to live on earth? They were here long before the dinosaurs – about 500 million years ago. There are over 25 000 known species of fish, and probably many more we haven’t discovered yet. Here are some interesting facts: • Fish are cold-blooded like reptiles and amphibians. • The largest fish is the great whale shark. • A giant squid can have eyes as big as basketballs. • The memory of a goldfish is about three seconds. • Different types of fish include tropical, marine, salt water, aquamarine, pond and pet fish. To find out more, visit www.easyscienceforkids.com/all-about-fish/
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KICKS FOR KIDS
Word game
a Write the letters in the relevant squares and then colour in the animals.
b
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 you’ve joined all the dots, then colour in the picture.
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Find
the route
KICKS FOR KIDS
Can you find the 10 differences between these two pictures?
Spot
the differences
c
Can you show this caterpillar the way to his friend in this juicy green apple?
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Give your feet Chocolaticas
Tilla & Jacob for unique designer shoes Phone: 056 2122517 20 Hill Street, Kroonstad Online Store: www.tillaenjacob.co.za 15_BABJulIssue2017.indd 89
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BOOK REVIEW Photo credit: Penguin Random House South Africa
The BIG Book of Animal Stories Various authors and illustrators Penguin Random House South Africa | R190.00 A delightful treasury of eight stories, The Big Book of Animal Stories features charming animal characters and beautiful illustrations from a variety of authors and illustrators. While each story has a heart-warming message, parents/carers and children will enjoy reading them together and are sure to find a new family favourite. At the back there are some suggestions for adults to add to children’s enjoyment of the stories.
th Africa
n Random House Sou
Photo credit: Pengui
How Do You Explain That? Danny Fouri Penguin Random House South Africa | R220.00 We know that the moon influences the tides, but did you know that with the full moon, you always see the same side of the moon? Or that a yawn is contagious for humans and some animals? And what precisely causes birds not to bump into one another when they fly in a swarm and they swerve? These facts are part of masses of knowledge about nature, physics and space that the RSG programme Hoe Verklaar Jy Dit? has been sharing for 37 years. This book, translated from the original bestselling Afrikaans version, contains a selection from the hundreds of questions curious listeners have been asking the experts to answer to make the world a little less strange, because not all knowledge is obvious. Piquing your interest in the world around you, this book is great for the coffee table or on camping trips with the family to elicit wonderful conversations around the campfire.
Ali Land Penguin Random House South Africa | R180.00
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e South Africa
Annie’s mother is a serial killer. The only way she can make it stop is to hand her in to the police. But out of sight is not out of mind. The secrets of her past won’t let her sleep, even with a new family and name – Milly. A fresh start. Now, surely, she can be whoever she wants to be. But Milly’s mother is a serial killer. And blood is thicker than water … She is, after all, her mother’s daughter. [Ed – One of the most compelling books I’ve read in a long time. A real page turner that will enthral you and keep you guessing, right to the very end. I couldn’t put it down.]
Photo credit: Penguin Random Hous
Good Me Bad Me
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