Child (March 2015)

The magazine for parents

CHiLD ISSUE 46, March 21, 2015

KID SAFETY WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

GRANDPARENTS TO THE RESCUE BUT DO WE TAKE THEM FOR GRANTED? Life in a family of 12 • Scientific young minds • Aromatherapy for children

SPECIAL OFFER ON FLYING SUPERKIDS SHOW

Kendra and grandma Marisa,

by Chris Sant Fournier

CHiLD ISSUE 46 March 21, 2015

In-house childcare

Contents Features 6 Grandparents: Their perspective on childminding 15 Psychology: Self-help poetry 19 Sexual Health: A guide for parents 25 Special Report: Children in danger 33 Education: Hands-on science 39 Family Life: Interview with a mum of 10 45 Health: Essential oils for children

Regulars 31 News You Can Use: YouTube app for kids; Caeliac seminars 48 Shop Window: Great products and services

Correspondence to the editor may be sent to: The Executive Editor, Child Magazine, Allied Newspapers Limited, Strickland House, 341, St Paul Street, Valletta VLT 1211 or send an e-mail to child@timesofmalta.com Executive Editor Mark Wood Publisher Allied Newspapers Limited Printing Progress Press Limited Production Allied Newspapers Limited Contributors Daniela Allen, Coryse Borg, Faye Camilleri Preziosi, Kim Dalli, Charmaine Gauci Photography Jason Borg, Chris Sant Fournier Design Manuel Schembri Advertising Sales Martina Bonello (tel: 2559 4707; e-mail: martina.bonello@timesofmalta.com).

This publication is being distributed as part of the Times of Malta.

All rights reserved. © 2015 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is prohibited.

4 CHiLD MARCH 2015

The introduction of free childcare is timely, because soon fewer grandparents may be available to look after their grandchildren while the parents are out at work or play. Nannu and nanna may be at work themselves, as so-called active aging becomes more prevalent or perhaps because financial pressures demand it.

In that sense, and in others, we may sometimes take grandparents' childminding duties for granted. Are parents being just that little bit selfish when they expect to be able to dump the children on grandma and grandpa, regardless of the latters’ retirement plans or financial means? The topic is explored in Child’s cover story by Kim Dalli, who gets the perspective of a group of grandparents.

In another in-depth article, a special report that will span two issues, Faye Camilleri Preziosi looks into the vitally important subject of safety, giving statistics that should make parents sit up and pay attention.

Another form of ‘danger’ children face is lack of knowledge about sexual health, and here Charmaine Gauci provides a guide to parents coming from her wealth of experience working in public health education.

Health is the subject of a piece by Daniela Allen on aromatherapy for children, with a long-time practitioner giving advice on the benefits, as well as a word of caution.

When it comes to well-being of mind, a little piece about “poetry self-help” may interest parents to try out a novel approach to helping their children cope with certain feelings and emotions.

Another article about coping is written by Coryse Borg, but this time it’s about how a mum of 10 – all still living at home – manages her huge family and has enough energy left to tell the tale.

Finally, education takes centre stage in a feature focusing on some great work with teachers being done by the Malta Council of Science and Technology, using a method that makes science stimulating.

I hope readers will find stimulation in these articles.

GRANDPARENTS

Marisa and Kendra

6 CHiLD MARCH 2015

GRANDPARENTS

THE

reliable ones Photography by Jason Borg and Chris Sant Fournier

Are grandparents taken too for granted as they come to the rescue of busy parents by taking care of their children? Kim Dalli got their perspective on the difficulties – and joys – of childminding duties. here are no dolls strewn across the floor or Lego pieces to skid on at the Chircop family home – partly because Philip and Carmen’s grandchildren are over 10 years of age and partly because we confine ourselves to their sitting room for the purpose of our chat, where we are joined by five other grandparents.

A large banner is propped in a corner with “Grandparents Malta Foundation” printed across it – the NGO which Mr Chircop set up in 2013 and of which the other grandparents are all members.

The conspicuous lettering on the banner helps bring to the forefront a generation of people who, despite being the backbone of many a family, all too often recede into the background of our increasingly hectic and fast-paced lives.

The Maltese baby-boomer generation of grandparents have come to occupy a unique role within the fabric of our society. As many women return to work after becoming mothers, grandparents

T

have assumed the roles of major caregivers for their grandchildren.

And it is a role which might not be so easily replicated by the next generation of grandparents, they point out.

“I had a full-time job which I had to give up due to the unexpected situation I found myself in,” says Marisa Zahra who, at 50, is the youngest grandmother of the group.

“My three-year-old granddaughter has no other grandparents here as her mother is a foreigner and her parents in turn live abroad so the onus slid onto us.

But I was lucky, as not everyone can af-

The way they all view their role as grandparents can be neatly summed up in the two words which cropped up the most during our conversation: the seemingly oxymoronic “blessing” and “duty”.

Grandmother-of-three Pauline Micallef, 62, says that with parents’ packed schedule of activities, grandparents are duty-bound to help. Grandmother-offour Carmen Vella, 63, nods in agreement, explaining how she used to do her bit even when she was still a working grandmother.

“And our children don’t just rely on us when they’re working. Recently my son and his wife took part in a marathon. So I looked after my grandchildren while they were training as well as on the actual day of the marathon.

“But I didn’t want them to miss out as I knew just how much it meant to them.”

And with many children spending between 20 and 40 hours a week with their grandparents – depending on whether they have reached school age – plus lots of ad hoc babysitting thrown in for good

“Retirement seems to no longer be a period in life where grandparents can merely sit back, relax and do the things they had always wished they had time for” ford to be able to take such a decision.

“Future parents might not find help at hand so easily. Tomorrow’s grandparents would probably still need to work in order to pay off their loans.”

CHiLD MARCH 2015 7

GRANDPARENTS

Phillip Chircop

measure, the tasks of minding or caring for children and that of essentially raising them are increasingly overlapping.

As Mr Chircop, 62, points out, grandparents have acquired massive responsibility since they are effectively moulding the characters of tomorrow’s children.

Which means that they have gone from being fun Nannu and Nanna to having to do the discipline.

Do they make their own rules or do they adopt those laid down by the children’s parents? Parenting styles differ.

Some parents support the grandparents’ stand when the children misbehave while others, rather infuriatingly, insist on mollycoddling them.

What the grandparents find surprising is the sudden change which occurs in their grandchildren once their parents walk through the door.

“I’m a disciplinarian” grandmother-ofthree, May Cassar, 62, says.

“One glance and the children know I’m displeased. But what’s incredible is that 8 CHiLD MARCH 2015

Carmen Chircop

on the go. I have to cook, wash the clothes and clean the house. At my age I just can’t do everything all at once.”

All the grandparents unanimously agree that Phillip and Carmen with grandchildren Luisa, they feel taken for granted Lizzie and Jordan. by their adult children.

Retirement seems to no longer be a period in life the moment the key in the lock turns and where grandparents can merely sit back, their parents walk in, they rebel. They start relax and do the things they had always moaning, they start disobeying, they wished they had time for after years of change within a split of a second.” bringing up their children and looking Grandfather-of-three Joe Salerno who, after their own elderly parents. at 73, is the oldest of the group, has deMr Chircop, like the rest of the grandcided to take a different stand to that of parents, admits that he feels guilty whenhis peers. ever he goes abroad.

“When my wife was still alive, my “Since I retired at the age of 55, I’ve grandchildren used to always be with been very active. Whenever I tell my chilus, morning until evening. dren that I’m going abroad or that I’m “When my wife died, I continued to at a breakfast meeting or line-dancing, care for them for a while but now I’ve they jokingly tell me: ‘Goodness, you’re really cut back. It’s different when you’re really living it up!’ alone and no longer a couple. Life “It’s a joke of course but one is made changes so very much when you’re widto feel as if we’re taking something away owed. I have to keep myself constantly from them.”

GRANDPARENTS

Pauline Micallef

Joe Salerno

“While inadvertently bringing about major lifestyle changes, her granddaughter unlocked a host of beautiful memories of little actions and things which young children did” n and Kyle.

Pauline with grandchildren Jade

Children do tend to border on selfishness, the grandparents sigh, as they seem to expect them to constantly put them and their needs first.

The sands of time have also brought about a stark reversal in roles and duties.

Ms Vella explains that in the past, young women used to make it a point to help out at their parents’ home.

“I remember visiting my mother once a week to scrub her place while having young children of my own. Nowadays, it is we who help out our children.

“We wash their clothes and we cook for them. We help and support them in so many ways.”

Mr Salerno recalls his first job aged 17 which used to earn him some Lm17 a week.

“When I got home, without much ado, my mother would immediately take away half of it. Things were different back then. Today, instead of them handing us money, we are the ones to give it to them.”

While all the grandparents stressed that they derived great joy from caring for their grandchildren, babysitting was, on the other hand, a costly reality.

The costs of feeding the children and taking them out in tandem with the petrol used up for school rounds and the endless extracurricular activities and private lessons could slowly eat away at a pensioner’s pocket.

They do not expect to be presented with a cheque but offering to at least buy the groceries once a month would

make for a pleasant way of expressing gratitude.

On the other hand, being a grandparent is a deeply rewarding experience.

Ms Zahra says that, while inadvertently bringing about major lifestyle changes, her granddaughter unlocked a host of beautiful memories of little actions and things which young children did.

Ms Chircop, 60, adds that looking after her grandchildren makes her feel young at heart.

“I also help them study – I enjoy refreshing my memory on general knowledge, learning along with them and explaining concepts to them – hoping, of course, that I got it right in the first place!”

Ms Vella explains that her grandchildren had something of a therapeutic effect.

“Grandchildren are a blessing. My husband had cancer and when our first CHiLD MARCH 2015 9

GRANDPARENTS

May Cassar

Carmen Vella

Carmen and her husband Joe , with their grandchildren Nina Jack, Michael and Timothy.

grandson was born, he was undergoing chemotherapy at the time. He found it very therapeutic to spend time playing with his grandson.”

Unable to remember his own grandparents, Mr Chircop felt his grandparenting experience was all the more special.

“We feel useful and our grandchildren look up to us. Obviously, that also works in the reverse – they can absorb bad habits as well.”

Unfortunately, there existed grandparents who pushed their grandchildren away by constantly complaining about 10 CHiLD MARCH 2015

issues such as the number of earrings and choice of clothing.

There were grandparents who unfortunately were the cause of family problems, who sowed the seeds of discord, interfered unnecessarily and criticised their sons or daughtersin-law, he added.

“There are also cases where grandchildren are not taken to see their grandparents because of discord.

“We know of a case involving a Maltese man who married a Dutch woman and had children. The man passed away and the mother went back to Holland.

The grandparents no longer know where the kids are as they lost trace of the mother. The grandmother is absolutely heartbroken because she hasn’t seen her grandchildren for ages.

“There is nothing in our law which gives grandparents visitation rights – we

their May and her husband Peter with Benjamin. and stian Seba , Amy ldren grandchi

strongly believe this option should be considered.”

Yet despite life as a grandparent of young children being generally relentless and exhausting, a little child’s sincere “I love you” or an adult’s text message saying “Thank you – if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have done it”, are the little things which renew a grandparent’s energy and fuel them with the vigour to be twice a mother or father.

The Grandparents Malta Foundation can be contacted on nanniet.malta@gmail.com.

PSYCHOLOGY

POETIC EXPRESSION Do you have a hard time talking with a young child about important topics in life, perhaps finding it awkward, or difficult to put things simply? Mark Wood discovered one approach that aims to get the conversation flowing nicely. arents generally look at themselves as their children’s guides and role models, besides of course being their taxi drivers and homework buddies… but their therapists?

Come to think of it, however, there will inevitably arise situations in the lives of growing kids when a parent could do with some techniques to help them help their child understand and cope with their feelings.

That’s essentially what a therapist does.

P

Christine Attard

See it as a tool to put your love and protective instincts into action in a structured way.

These thoughts occurred to me after Christine Attard introduced me to her new book. And what she presents in the book as a method of helping children understand emotions and situations is novel indeed – poetry.

Life Rhymes for Young Minds is a collection of what she calls self-help poems, which address life topics ranging from bullying and dealing with anger to accepting others’ beliefs and family types.

Intended for children around the ages of 4 to 11, it can be used by both parents and teachers as a means of opening a conversation about a particular topic. It is especially useful for those who may find it awkward to talk about these subjects or who find it hard to express themselves in a simple way for children to understand.

The child may choose a topic from the book suitable to the feelings and worries they may be experiencing at that moment.

“Some of the poems give children insight into why they feel the way they do and how to deal with their emotion, especially if their loved ones may not be around to help,” says Ms Attard.

“This empowers them and allows them to grow with some of the tools necessary to deal with similar situations in the future.”

Each poem comes with an art challenge, which can be used to help them open up to the people around them, by explaining the contents of their pictures.

“Even though children may not be passing through these things in life, by reading the poem they are made aware of situations and feelings, so that if they happen they may be able to identify and handle it, as well as maybe alert care givers.”

They say poetry touches the soul – these verses can reach into a child’s tender heart.

CHiLD MARCH 2015 15

PSYCHOLOGY

BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU WANT

by Christine Attard There will always be people around you, Who will make you feel quite low, When they say that what you believe in, Is not really so.

They may tell you that you're being silly, Believing in things not really seen.

Just because they may not agree with you, Laughing at you and just being mean.

There will always be people around you, Who make you doubt what's in your heart.

But believe in what makes you happy, Even though it may set you apart.

Stand by what you really believe in, Allowing others to do the same, Knowing people are all different, And in being different there is no shame.

DRAWING CHALLENGE: Draw a picture of something you believe in

TIPS ON USING THIS POEM WITH CHILDREN 1. Read the poem together with the child or let the child read it without too many corrections. Remember, the objective is for the child to open up about the topic and too many corrections could hinder the flow of communication.

2. Ask questions to the child and keep them open, i.e.

What do you think about the poem? Why do you think the poet wrote about this topic? How does it make you feel? Do you think this poem can be useful? When can it be useful?

3. When asking the questions remember to give time for the child to answer, and do not spoon-feed words or opinions. Take the lead from the child by asking questions relative to the child’s answer.

For example: Child: I did not like this part of the poem. Adult: Why? 4. If the child finds it hard to express themselves using words, you can use pictures of facial expressions for them to choose from, i.e. happy face, sad face, angry face, confused face, scared face, etc.

5. Ask the children to attempt the drawing challenge. You can either leave them to get on with it or stay next to them. If you choose to stay next to them make sure you do not criticise what they are doing or give them your input. Encourage them to draw what they feel and want.

6. You can ask questions about the picture, showing interest in their decisions. It is ok to ask questions about their subject choice and why, the composition, content and colour choice as well as what they are feeling or felt while drawing. You can also ask what the people, animals or objects might be feeling.

Facebook page: Life Rhymes for Young Minds by Christine Attard.

SEXUAL HEALTH

It’s not about the BIRDS and BEES anymore Though sexual development is typically associated with the teen years, in reality the development of an emotional and physical foundation for sexuality starts from a very early age. Indeed sexual development begins in a child’s very first years. Infants, toddlers, preschoolers and young school-aged kids develop an emotional and physical foundation for sexuality as they grow.

Growing up is marked “Parents in physical milestones should not be such as walking, talkdisapproving or ing and playing. Simangry as the ilarly they achieve

Sexual health and relationships education in schools has been in the spotlight lately, with the subject coming up for discussion in a committee of MPs. But of course it is the parents who have the bigger role to play in guiding their children through what is sometimes seen as a minefield. It needn’t be one. Just keep in mind a few simple principles. By Charmaine Gauci. arents today are faced with children who ask loads of questions about almost anything that crosses their mind. As they grow and access the web they are likely to be in a situation where they may know more than parents and demand factual replies.

Answering questions about sex is a responsibility that many parents dread and often seek to avoid. For many parents, sex never featured as a topic when they were growing up.

However, health and education personnel can in no way be the sole educators on sexual health for our children, while the subject retains a taboo-like aura at home. The family is pivotal to a person’s life development of feelings, love and relationships.

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Sexual health is multidimensional, involving the achievement of positive things in life such as mutually rewarding relationdiscovering of one’s ships and parentbody is in fact a hood, as well as the normal part avoidance of negative things such as unof life” wanted pregnancy and STI/HIV infection.

As a fundamental part of its contribution to the development and well-being of children, school-based education can play an important role in promoting sexual health and prevention of significant sexual health problems.

Sexual development begins in a child’s very first years: the sensations of being touched and hugged are the early roots of love that later develops into mature sexuality

CHiLD MARCH 2015 19

SEXUAL HEALTH

Puberty can be a very confusing time: Kids need to know what to expect in the months and years ahead

emotional milestones in how they recognize, experience, and feel about their bodies, and how they form attachments to others. There is evidence which shows that the attachments established in these early years help set the stage for bonding and intimacy in later life.

20 CHiLD MARCH 2015

to answer questions and offer guidance.

The guidance needs to be tailor-made to the age of the child.

In the case of infants and toddlers, parents express their attachment through physical contact even at the earliest stage when a baby is born. The sensation of being touched and hugged lends to positive physical sensations which are associated with being loved.

This forms the early roots of love that later develops into mature sexuality.

At such an early age, children explore their bodies and many times they touch their genitals during diaper changes.

This is very normal and parents should not stop them from doing it.

Parents should not be disapproving or angry as this discovering of one’s body is in fact a normal part of life. It is also very natural for baby boys to have frequent erections.

Children start developing awareness about gender difference at the age of two to three years. They start to understand the difference between boys and girls. It is at this stage that children start developing gender roles and associate with what is masculine and what is feminine.

By the age of five years, the child is well aware of being a boy or a girl. Often at this stage children start asking about different organs of a girl and a boy, and where do babies come from. It is best to answer in an “Evidence shows honest way and not reply with answers that young people like “found you in whose parents discuss the river” or “the all aspects of sexuality stork brought you”. with them tend to delay In reality kids know that we rarely see becoming sexually storks and do not active” have rivers in Malta!

Being truthful at this stage also encourages your kids to come to you with their Parents have the responsibility to questions in the future. You can say that support their children by fostering their a man and woman can make a baby and emotional health development, leading that the baby grows inside the mummy’s to a positive sexual health experience. tummy. If this satisfies your child, you It is however a fact that parents need to might not need to provide additional inbe armed with the facts, getting some formation about how the baby is actually sense of what to expect, and being there made until later.

SEXUAL HEALTH

There are TWO things that ALL parents should communicate to their children: • They love them and will always love them.

• They do have values and expectations for their children’s behavior, and they include expecting their children to wait to have sex.

What is the ideal age to begin the discussion with their children on sexual health?

At ages between five and 10 years, children are interested in pregnancy and birth. At this age, if parents are not available to give reliable information, they will turn to their peers, internet or media for information. It is normal for children this age to ask about these topics so if they don’t ask, it may well be wise to bring up the conversation at an appropriate time.

At this age it is possible to find children sharing “dirty” jokes about sex and body parts. They may not be able to understand these jokes, so the best way to handle this would be to remain calm and explain that such jokes are inappropriate. You can share simple jokes which they can share with their friend instead of the “dirty” jokes. You cannot expect children to avoid such language if you are telling such jokes yourself so be a good role model for your child.

As kids continue to understand and experience their bodies, and the physical changes of puberty emerge, your attitude and acceptance will continue to play an important role in their healthy development. Puberty can be a very confusing time, with lots of physical and emotional changes, and kids need to know what to expect in the months and years ahead, even if they’re too shy to ask. Keep a good communication channel, be there for your kids and raise discussion when they don’t.

The immediate question which comes to mind is whether raising awareness on sexual health will increase sexual activity or exploration. Many parents wonder if talking about sexuality and reproduction will encourage their children to experiment. Evidence shows that young people, whose parents discuss all aspects of sexuality with them, tend to delay becoming sexually active, compared to those parents who do not discuss this topic.

A meta-analysis of 174 studies examining the impact of different types of sexual health promotion interventions found that these programs do not inadvertently increase the frequency of sexual behaviour or number of sexual partners.

Charmaine Gauci is director of the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate, and a consultant in Public Health Medicine 22 CHiLD MARCH 2015

• There is no right or wrong answer here.

• Start relationship building from the time baby is born • Discussions with parents suggest that 9 or 10 years old is a good time to start if you haven’t already.

For primary school-aged kids: • Talk about love, affection and relationships.

• Talk about treating others with respect and about expecting to be treated with respect.

• When your child is old enough to ask questions, he or she is old enough to receive simple and correct answers.

For secondary school-aged kids: • Be very clear.

• Tell your pre-teen or teen why it is important to make good decisions about sex.

• Talk to him or her about setting goals for the future.

• Talk about feelings, relationships, values and waiting to have sex.

For kids after secondary school age: • Keep talking.

• Continue to talk about setting goals.

• Continue to reinforce your family’s values.

Parents are encouraged to: Listen, get accurate information and communicate with their children

SPECIAL REPORT

Duty to protect A parent’s key responsibility is protection: to ensure their children’s safety as they grow up to become independent adults. In the first of a two-part report on this vital aspect of parenting – which we sometimes take for granted – Faye Camilleri Preziosi looks at the health and safety risks faced during the various phases of childhood. It’s not intended to provoke paranoia but awareness. In the next edition of Child, she will provide some essential guidelines on preventing the most common accidents that befall children.

ccording to a 2008 joint WHO/UNICEF report entitled World report on child injury prevention, around 830,000 children aged 0 to 17 are unintentionally mortally injured worldwide each year. The most common

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causes of these accidental but fatal injuries are road traffic accidents, drowning, burns, falls and poisoning.

This means over 2,000 families around the globe are devastated daily by their worst fears coming true. Many other families may be lucky enough

to avoid the unbearable pain experienced after the death of a child but are faced with the burden and heartbreak of raising a child with long-term disabilities or disfigurement.

“Once children reach the age of 5 years, unintentional injuries are the CHiLD MARCH 2015 25

SPECIAL REPORT biggest threat to their survival,” says the WHO report. “Unintentional injuries are also a major cause of disabilities, which can have a long-lasting impact on all facets of children’s lives: relationships, learning and play.”

These deaths and disabilities from often avoidable injuries can affect not only the children and their immediate families, but sometimes whole communities.

In Europe, as part of the Tools to Address Childhood Trauma, Injury and Children’s Safety (TACTICS) project, the European Child Safety Alliance developed a system of Child Safety Report Cards.

Every two years, each European Union Member State is issued a report card summarising their level of child safety and the effectiveness of prevention strategies in place.

According to the Child Safety Report Card 2012, notwithstanding the major improvements in the mortality statistics during the last two to three decades, “injury remains a leading cause of death for children and adolescents in every Member State in Europe.”

Over 6,000 children aged 0-19 die from accidental injuries each year in the EU, representing around 17 per cent of total deaths in the under 20s. According to the report, “More children aged 5-19 die of injuries than all other causes combined.”

In addition, a much larger number of children endure life-long physical and mental disabilities, making child injuries a major European health issue. The type and rate of injury tends to differ by age and gender, with the younger and older age groups suffering higher rates of mortality and males generally faring worse than females.

Researchers estimate 90 per cent of injuries in children could be avoided if the right preventive strategies were in

CHILD INJURIES GLOBALLY – THE FACTS • Around 830,000 under 18s die from accidental injuries annually.

• Accidental injuries are the leading cause of death in children over 9 years.

• Almost 50% of all accidental child injuries are a result of road accidents and drowning.

• Tens of millions of children are hospitalised annually for non-fatal injuries.

• Child injuries account for 40% of all child deaths in high-income countries.

• Child injury death rates can be reduced by 50% through injury prevention policy introduction, implementation and enforcement and the adoption of best practice.

Sources: World Health Organization (2008), What you can do to keep kids safe from injury.

of “excellent”, since none of them had implemented all the recommended policies for improving children’s safety and reducing childhood injuries.

Malta was one of 16 countries to achieve a grade of “good performance”, ranking 8th with a score of 38.5 out of 60 and outperforming countries such as England, France and Italy. Scores were based on: moped/motor scooter safety, passenger/driver safety, pedestrian safety, cycling safety, water safety/drowning prevention, fall prevention, poisoning prevention, burn/scald prevention, choking/strangulation prevention, child safety leadership, child safety infrastructure and child safety capacity.

Although the overall numbers of deaths in the under 20s in Malta are low, injuries are still a leading cause of death for children. According to the Child Safety Country Profile 2012, out of the

“Researchers estimate 90 per cent of injuries in children could be avoided if the right preventive strategies were in place” place. Unfortunately, while standards have undoubtedly improved in a number of countries, none of those assessed in the EU managed to achieve a grade 26 CHiLD MARCH 2015

31 European countries assessed, Malta ranked 1st (lowest child injury death rate) for males and 9th for females in 2010.

Boys over 10 are particularly at risk for accidents involving bicycles.

However, injuries were still responsible for 14 per cent of all child and adolescent deaths in Malta in 2010, with unintentional injury accounting for about one out of every 22 deaths in males and one out of every seven deaths in females in this age group. In 2013 alone, nearly 2,000 youngsters from 0-19 visited the hospital’s accident and emergency department after falls, and more than 300 were in for a road accident injury.

So what are we, as a country, doing to prevent them?

Malta has made progress on a number of safety issues relating to road traffic

SPECIAL REPORT

LEADING CAUSES OF ACCIDENTAL INJURIES

injuries and deaths in children through a number of initiatives. Among them is the publication of a monthly article on ‘Taghna t-Tfal’, educational visits to schools, distribution of worksheets and activity books in schools, and the publication of Guidelines for Safer Cycling.

However, more could be done to improve road safety with regard to vehicle passengers and drivers, with road traffic accidents remaining the leading cause of fatal injuries in Malta.

It is also clear from the report that as a country we still fall short on injury prevention, especially when it comes to

ANNUAL WORLDWIDE DEATHS IN 0-19 YEAR OLDS IN 2004

EU RANK AS LEADING CAUSE OF ACCIDENTAL FATAL INJURY

DEATHS IN 0-19 YEAR OLDS IN MALTA 2004-2013

0-19 YEAR OLDS VISITING A&E IN MALTA IN 2013

Road Traffic Accidents

> 260,000

1st

25

318

Drowning

> 175,000

2nd

6

14

Burns / Scalds / Fires

< 96,000

4th

No specific data

85

Falls

> 46,000

3rd

6

1,935

Poisoning

> 45,000

5th

4

141

TYPE OF INJURY

Sources: World Health Organization (2008), World report on child injury prevention; European Child Safety Alliance, Child Safety Report Card 2012; National Mortality Registry and Injury Database, Directorate of Health Information and Research, Malta.

CHiLD MARCH 2015 27

SPECIAL REPORT addressing the safety concerns regarding the other leading causes of fatal injuries: drowning, falls, burns/ scalds and poisonings. There is a lack of child safety policies and of implementation and enforcement of the policies we do have in place.

“Injuries were responsible for 14 per cent of all child and adolescent deaths in Malta in 2010” According to the report, “stronger leadership from government and support for infrastructure are required”.

So, with support and funding for the establishment of best practice injury prevention still insufficient, what can we do as parents to keep our children safe? In the next issue of Child I will provide safety checklists on road and water safety, falls, burns and poisoning.

YOU NEED TO KNOW: ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS • • • •

720 children die globally each day from injuries sustained in road traffic accidents.

Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death among 10-19 year olds.

Road traffic injuries are the leading cause of disability for children.

Vehicle passengers/drivers – deaths occur across all age groups, but peak in teenage males as passengers of new drivers, or as inexperienced drivers themselves.

• Pedestrians – risk increases in over 1s as children learn to walk, until they are better able to judge speed and distance from age 10+, with risk peaking in teenage males due to increased exposure and risk-taking behaviours.

• Motorised two-wheelers – as most common users teenage males are highest risk group.

• Cyclists – over 5s are most at risk, particularly males over 10 years.

DROWNING • 480 children die globally each day from drowning.

• Death rates are significantly higher for males than females after the first year of age, but particularly in teenagers. Males over 15 years are at highest risk.

• 2-3 million children come close to drowning annually.

• Deaths occur across all age groups but children under 5 years are at greatest risk, with infants drowning in just a few centimetres.

• Most drowning incidents in high-income countries happen in swimming pools.

• Over 5% of child drowning survivors sustain serious neurological damage.

FALLS • 130 children die globally each day from falls.

• Deaths occur across all age groups, with the highest rates seen in the under 5s and in older teenage males.

• Under 1s are most likely to sustain injuries falling from furniture, or from being dropped.

• Under 5s falls are most likely to fall from stairs, windows, balconies, furniture, or play equipment.

• Older children and teenagers, particularly males, are more likely to fall from heights such as play equipment, fire escapes, roofs, and balconies.

• Non-fatal falls can still result in significant disability.

• Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury, often with long-term consequences.

BURNS/SCALDS /FIRE

MALTA: INJURY AREA SCORES (OUT OF 5 STARS) Pedestrian safety Passenger/driver safety Moped/motor scooter safety Cycling safety

• 260 children die globally each day from fire-related burns.

• Deaths due to burns, scalds and fire occur across all age groups.

• Under 5s are at highest risk due to their size and their inability to escape house fires.

• Burns is the only type of injury more common in girls than boys.

• Smoke inhalation from fires can be deadly, particularly in children over 3 years.

• Almost 75% of non-fatal burns are from hot liquids, hot tap water, or steam.

• Burns disfigure many children for life.

Water safety/drowning prevention Fall prevention Poisoning prevention Burn/scald prevention Choking/strangulation prevention Child safety leadership Child safety infrastructure Child safety capacity building

POISONING • • • •

125 children die globally each day from poisoning.

Children under 1 year are at highest risk.

Over 15s are at high risk due to illegal substances and alcohol poisoning.

Under 5s are at risk due to their curiosity and a tendency to put things into their mouths.

• Poisoning patterns differ depending on age, type of exposure, nature and dose of poison.

• Most common poisons in high-income countries are medications and household products.

• Other common poisons are pesticides, plants, and bites from insects and animals.

Source: European Child Safety Alliance, Child Safety Report Card 2012 – MALTA

28 CHiLD MARCH 2015

Sources: World Health Organization (2008), World report on child injury prevention; European Child Safety Alliance, Child Safety Report Card 2012

NEWS YOU CAN USE

New YouTube app for children arents may be delighted to learn that YouTube has just launched a child-friendly app for Android and iOS mobile devices, called YouTube Kids. It does not appear to be available in Europe yet.

But will it give parents peace of mind when they hand over a mobile phone or tablet to their kids in exchange for some peace and quiet? It does look likely to fulfill a need.

While there are already many video apps out there targeted at children, the home-grown YouTube app is said to be well-designed and of high quality. It features content that has been manually curated, with new stuff added all the time, and even suggestions for other videos to watch that are filtered to be kid-safe.

There are also parental controls, such as the options to set limits with a timer that tells a child when it’s time up, to disable the search function and to turn off sound effects that many parents find so annoying when playing in the background.

YouTube says there are thousands of channels that children can go to, with content from established brands such as DreamWorks TV, National Geographic Kids and Thomas the Tank Engine. Children can tap on big buttons to go to sections such as “Learning”, “Explore”, “Music” and “Shows”.

Commonsense media, the website that rates films, videos, books and other media products for children and families, cautions that YouTube Kids still carries adverts targeted at the young. Otherwise its review is generally positive: “Some videos have mild cartoon violence, some potentially creepy images, and some tween music videos that are tame overall but may not align with some parents’ rules for younger viewers (Selena Gomez’s performance of “Come and Get It” is about as extreme as it gets). Figaro Pho on the DisneyShorts channel may be scary for some kids, as it features a character who faces phobias and is drawn in a Tim Burton-y style.

“But in general, there aren’t any real minefields for parents to worry about, and neither kids nor parents ever enter any personal information. There’s something for everyone on YouTube Kids. Toddlers to big kids will be able to find a show, some music, or some educational content that fits their interests.”

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SEMINARS ON COELIAC DISEASE Daniela Allen tudies have shown that the incidence of new coeliac cases in adults and children is increasing across Europe. Experts believe that due to lack of diagnoses the prevalence of the disease is much higher than the reported one per cent. There are as many as 4,000 probable coeliac cases in Malta and a lot still undiagnosed.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune digestive disease that damages the villi of the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food. Essentially the body attacks itself every time a person with coeliac consumes gluten.

Gluten, a blend of the plant starch storage proteins gliadin and glutenin, which is significant in conferring elasticity and viscosity to foods, is found in wheat, barley and rye. When people with coeliac disease eat foods containing gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the finger-like villi of the small intestine. When the villi become damaged, the body is unable to absorb nutrients into the bloodstream, which can lead to malnourishment.

If left untreated, people with coeliac can develop further complications such as other autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, thyroid disease, and cancer. Symptoms related to coeliac disease include: diarrhoea, excessive wind or constipation, nausea, vomiting, recurrent stomach pain, deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid, tiredness and/or headaches, sudden or unexpected weight loss, mouth ulcers, hair loss, skin rash, tooth enamel problems, joint and/or bone pain, depression, osteoporosis, type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases.

Coeliac is believed to affect 1 in 100 of the population, but only 24 per cent of coeliacs ever get diagnosed. The only way to manage coeliac disease is to go on a gluten free diet. The need for more education and awareness on the medical condition is crucial.

In order to raise national awareness of coeliac and other gluten related disorders, Narrative Structures, a private PR venture owned by parents to a young coeliac child, invited the world coeliac expert Professor Stefano Guandalini (picture) to Malta.

Professor Guandalini will be key note speaker for two seminars: one on the evening of April 23 at the Italian Cultural Institute in Valletta, which will be open to medical professionals only, and the other open to the public to be held on the morning of Saturday, April 25, at The President’s Palace in Valletta.

Both seminars will be free of charge and refreshments will be served after the talks. Entrance will be by registration only. To register email: information@narrativestructures.com or request further information on 7934 3207.

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Prof. Stefano Guandalini is an internationally recognised expert on coeliac disease. He is also known for his expertise in the research and treatment of other diarrheal diseases in children. His clinical and research efforts have greatly influenced the way celiac disease is diagnosed and treated today and his work contributed to the revision of 20-year-old guidelines for coeliac disease diagnosis now used worldwide. He has been nominated one of “America’s Top Doctors” continuously since 2008.

CHiLD MARCH 2015 31

EDUCATION

How to raise ‘little scientists’ How can science – something which is amazingly varied, nurtured by brilliant minds, awe-inspiring in its discoveries and fundamental to our lives – be boring? Yet by the time most students reach the end of their school years they have been turned off by it. Something is clearly wrong in the way it is taught. Mark Wood reports on at attempt to fix that, which is starting to take hold in Malta.

primary school classroom was discussing the subject of air and the question at issue was: “Where does the wind come from?” A little boy raised his hand: “From the trees!”

It was a perfectly reasonable and logical answer – trees rustle and shake on windy days, don’t they? It is quite easy for someone so young to imagine this to be the cause rather than the effect.

But instead of saying “No” and going on to give a ready explanation about cold air from the sea rushing in to replace the warm air rising above the land, the teacher said: “Let’s go outside and find out.”

In the playground, there were no trees in sight but it was still windy. The boy had just disproved his first scientific hypothesis. But his curiosity had been firmly piqued.

The class went on to make further observations, come up with new ideas, discuss them, do some simple experiments

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“There is nothing like the feeling of ‘I can do that too!’ to ignite a passion for discovery”

The wind: Does it come from that tree?

and through this gain some insight into the true nature of wind. Then they talked about how they had learned what they did.

A ‘little scientist’ was born. Perhaps the seeds of scientific inquiry had been laid for a whole group of eager young minds.

This is the kind of approach to teaching science that is being taken in a German initiative called ‘Little Scientists’.

Backed by some major technology companies, the project has already created more than 3,000 “Little Scientists’ Houses” in Germany, where early years and primary school pupils are put in touch with natural science and technology through the stuff they encounter in everyday life.

The aim is to use this hands-on, inquiry-based method to foster enthusiasm and curiosity for science and research, CHiLD MARCH 2015 33

EDUCATION help the children grasp some of the fundamental concepts and build confidence in their capacity to learn new things. There is nothing like the feeling of “I can do that too!” to ignite a passion for discovery.

The German foundation that runs the project is making its experience and resources available to other countries – and Malta, through the Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST), supported by the Ministry for Education and Employment, is one of the first to grasp the opportunity. In fact, MCST last year signed a partnership agreement with the “Haus der kleinen Forscher” Foundation and is collaborating with the Department of Curriculum, the Church Secretariat and the private school sector to start implementing the project in kindergartens and primary schools.

Training kicked off with the science peripatetic teachers (these are teachers who go from one government school to another giving science lessons to primary students), together with heads of department from the Church school sector and representatives from the private school sector.

The plan is for these trainees to then act as “multipliers”, going on to train other teachers in the “Little Scientists” educational approach. The training focuses on giving teachers the confidence to deliver science lessons and make them familiar with inquiry-based learning and the “research cycle”: the process through which children are engaged in exploration through questioning, making predictions, carrying out research, documenting results and reflecting on their learning.

The project is making inroads. So far about 170 teachers from 51 schools have received some training in one or both of the first two topics tackled: Water and Air. More workshops will be offered and new topics addressed, with the foundation helping to increase the amount of materials, resources and ideas that primary teachers can make use of in their classrooms. Classrooms and schools could also choose to become certified as Little Scientists’ Houses.

The initiative is timely. By some calculations, the EU needs half a million more researchers as funding for Research and 34 CHiLD MARCH 2015

“We are trying to make sure that the intrinsic interest that children have in exploring will be maintained throughout their primary years of schooling” Innovation grows in a bid to make the continent more competitive and create new growth and jobs in the field. Malta is following suit with its own efforts to boost the sector, and plenty of opportunities are envisaged for technical careers in areas ranging widely, from health and life sciences to ICT and the environment.

But it can also be argued that improving science education will not just serve the purpose of producing the next generation of researchers and innovators. A

2008 report on science education in Europe, from King’s College in London, argued that the subject as taught at school is not just a pipeline for future scientists but must be targeted at all students.

This is because, in today’s world so dominated by science and technology – and from where so many political and moral dilemmas arise – all citizens need an understanding of how science works and of the major scientific ideas, as well as an ability to be “critical consumers” of scientific

EDUCATION knowledge and technological products.

One of the report’s major recommendations is teaching science in a way that engages and motivates the students.

That, however, is easier said than done. MCST’s Giselle Calleja, who is part of the council’s ‘Science Popularisation’ unit and has been trained in the Little Scientists approach, acknowledges that various constraints exist in taking science education to the next level and that a shift in the way science is experienced in primary schools is required.

“Initiatives like Little Scientists are important to help make the transition. Some teachers do adopt a hands-on approach but the majority resort to a didactic approach, lacking the confidence to explore further with the children. This method equips them and seeks to reduce the ‘fear of science’ that they may have.”

She says it has been interesting to see teachers attending the workshop sessions have as much fun as their pupils when they do experiments with everyday objects.

“From what we have seen in the first year, it has been very successful and the

peripatetic teachers we have trained are keen to take it further. It is possibly even more effective with primary teachers having a non-science background, who may have been ‘scared of science’ but emerge feeling empowered.”

The comments of teachers reflect this: “Very useful,” one said. “Please give us more such sessions to help us improve and feel more confident in our work!”

Another peripatetic teacher said: “It was really inspiring and we strongly believe that the innovative way how the whole Little Scientists programme is structured is very effective.”

Elton Micallef, the project leader at MCST, believes the initiative will have a lasting positive effect on science education in Malta.

“It is an integral part of human nature to be curious at a young age but this is

often dampened down as time passes.

We are trying to make sure that the intrinsic interest that children have in exploring will be maintained throughout their primary years of schooling.

“The objective is for children to have fun and explore phenomena that draw upon their natural curiosity, captivate and motivate them for current and future learning. This would also help to encourage better attitudes towards science, greater take-up of science subjects in schools and a lifelong hunger to learn.”

And all this carries a message for parents too: learn how to exploit your children’s natural curiosity and their need to explore their environment and the world around them. You will be helping them not only to make the most of their science classes – in whatever way they are taught – but also to develop their skills, knowledge, ability to solve problems and courage to take on challenges: just the recipe for a scientific mind.

MCST is planning to offer training for parents so they too can learn to support their children with exploration and discovery. Watch this space.

SPLASH JUMP IN PUDDLES IMAGINE BLOW BUBBLES

CREATE LAUGH A LOT

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FAMILY LIFE

COUNTING THEIR (10) BLESSINGS How does she manage!?

Being the mum in a family of 12, Doreen Camilleri gets asked that question all the time.

The keys are proper planning and everyone pitching in, she tells Coryse Borg. hen I was a kid, one of my favourite programmes was ‘Eight is Enough’, an American sitcom which featured the life of a father, journalist Tom Bradford, who, after his wife’s death, marries a schoolteacher, Abby Abbott. Together, they go through the joys, trials and tribulations of raising eight – yes eight Enter Doreen Camilleri, who, together – children ranging in ages from eight to with husband Pierre, has 10 children rangearly twenties. ing in ages from six months to 24 years!

Coming from a family made up of two When I speak to Doreen, her third-born, siblings (my younger brother and myself), 19-year-old Aaron who suffers from scolI was fascinated by the dynamics of this iosis, has just returned from a six-week very large family – the lack of privacy hospital visit in the UK. Aaron, who was which was countered by the fact that they accompanied by his dad throughout, was could always find a shoulder to cry on; hoping to have an operation which the thought of how much ironing would improve his quality of and cooking needed to be life (after a long recuperadone; the sheer fun that was tion period). Sadly, it “After the had during family celebrawas not to be, as his first two, Pierre tions which were like big surgeon was hesitant said that one girl parties. to operate due to and one boy was Nowadays, of course, kidney problems. large families are not the Although this is a perfect. But God sent norm. I can count on one setback, Doreen’s them all to us and we hand the friends and joie de vivre and opwere very happy to family members I know timism shines through have them” with five children or more. as she speaks:

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A rare moment: A photo of the whole family together (plus a couple of friends), as Aaron (in wheelchair) heads to the UK for an operation.

“This is the second time that the operation has had to be postponed,” she tells me. “Aaron has had to postpone his studies for now and I am really hoping that next time, it will be a case of ‘third time lucky’ for him.”

While Aaron and Pierre were in the UK, Doreen was home looking after her youngest children, including little Mariam who, at just six months, is definitely the baby of the brood.

“I’m fortunate that the older children are very good in helping me around the house and babysitting the younger ones,” Doreen smiles. “Even so, I barely left the house during these six weeks, unless I had to… which was a bit of a blessing in disguise.”

So, let’s ‘meet’ the 10 siblings. Doreen lists them in order, hesitating only once and laughing as she does.

CHiLD MARCH 2015 39

FAMILY LIFE First of all, there are Daniel, 24 and Jessica, 21, who are both currently studying nursing.

“They are both there to help the others when needed,” says Doreen, “And Jessica especially is so good and caring with the younger kids.

Then there is Aaron, who is taking a hiatus from his studies until he – hopefully – gets his operation, Jonathan, 17, who is studying engineering at Junior College and Nathan, almost 16, who is about to start his ‘O levels.

Reuben (13), Isaac (8), Gabriel (7), Jael (3) and Mariam (6 months) complete the family picture. All the children still live at home with their parents.

Doreen was 21 when she and Pierre got married. Her first pregnancy – twins – sadly ended in a miscarriage which doctors say was probably caused by the fact that she had had chicken pox around the time of conception. When she was pregnant with Daniel, she was 23.

As a mum of one child, I ask the obvious question… how does Doreen cope?

“I get asked this question at least once a day,” she laughs. “The truth is that, whatever the number of your children, you simply adapt and cope. I’m very energetic, so I take things in my stride. It’s not like I was presented with 10 children all at one go!

“We never really thought of having a large family – in fact, after the first two, Pierre said that one girl and one boy was

didn’t cry too much and usually slept through the night from an early age – which was a great help.

When they were little, her mum used to come over and help as well.

She says that she also always got a lot of support from Pierre, who is a dab hand at feeding babies and changing nappies. Occasionally he will also take over the cooking to give Husband Pierre Camilleri came her a break, especially durfrom a large family himself. ing Christmas when the house is choc-a-bloc with perfect. But God sent them all to us and family members and the older children’s we were very happy to have them.” respective boyfriends and girlfriends.

Being one of two siblings, she says it I wonder if Doreen and Pierre ever have never really crossed her mind that she a moment to themselves and she says would have so many children. Her husthat, although it is difficult, they do have band Pierre, however, has eight brothers the occasional night out, with the older and sisters… so perhaps it is simply a case kids babysitting the younger ones. It is of history repeating itself! also difficult for all the family to be to“I used to ask myself how on earth his gether at one time, but they all make an mum coped with nine kids!” Doreen effort to be home for Sunday lunch or to smiles. “The truth is that I have a system go out for special occasions such as family which works for me. For example, I plan weddings and Holy Communions. meals for the week and make sure I have Another hot question… how many parthe utensils I need. As I said, the older ents’ days and concerts have Doreen and children help with the younger ones. They Pierre had to attend? also help with chores – it is their job to “Oh I’ve lost count,” she grins, “Thankclean up the kitchen after I cook, and they fully, for Parents Day, the teachers have have been making their beds since they always been wonderful and arranged for were small. I have brought them up to us to see them at around the same time be independent. For example, Nathan so we didn’t’ have to wait.” started cooking when he was eight, and Finally… do the children get on well? now he is better than me!”

“Yes, on the whole they do,” she says, Doreen says that she was lucky in that “Of course, they have the occasional arall her children were ‘good babies’, who gument – this is only natural in a household where no-one supports the same football team! And of course I can get angry at them as well. I’m a parent first and a friend second.

“Discipline is important. They have to stick to the house rules. But we have an excellent relationship – I am Facebook If the older siblings and other family members are willing to help out… let friends with all my older kids – and they them! know they can always come and talk to Bring the children up to be independent. me whenever they need to.”

Limit the younger children’s time with technology and social media.

I realise that Doreen and I have been When you can, split parental duties. For example, at Parents’ Day, there is chatting for nearly two hours. It’s late and nothing wrong with one parent seeing one teacher while the other sees I make my farewells to this truly inspiring another. mum who has more stamina, energy and Always make time to listen to your children, but be a parent first and friend positivity than a lot of people half her second. age.

Doreen’s five Golden Rules for running big families • • • •

•

40 CHiLD MARCH 2015

PROMO

FLYING SUPERKIDS

– they’ll blow you away! lying Superkids is a truly unique show from the Kingdom of Denmark – the only one of its kind in the world! It started many years ago as a traditional gymnastics team, but has evolved into an internationally renowned show ensemble, and today the show has performed in more than 35 countries.

Audiences of all ages are blown away by the show. Flying Superkids is a wonderful experience for the whole family.

The show is a high tempo mix of acrobatics, gymnastics, dancing, singing, comedy, tumbling and of course twists, double and triple somersaults on trampolines and other crazy equipment. The true centre of the show, however, is the joy of life within each of the young performers. They simply love to be on stage, making the show a “high-flying” party every time. Their incredible energy and amazing skills make Flying Superkids an experience you never forget.

“Flying Superkids is a non-profit organization, and all members of the group are everyday Danish children who perform in the show in their spare time.

The fact that totally normal kids can have such amazing skills and do a top professional show, astonishes people all over the world,” Jens Hornemann, Chairman of the Board Flying Superkids has performed in more than 35 countries, including the

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Venue: MFCC, Ta’ Qali Show Days: Saturday 4th April 2015 @ 14:30Hrs & 19:00Hrs Sunday 5th April 2015 @ 14:30Hrs & 19:00Hrs Monday 6th April 2015 @ 18:30Hrs Tuesday 7th April 2015 @ 18:30Hrs Ticket Prices: This show is recommended for Adults and Children alike.

Seated tickets available are: VIP Section: €32.00 (adults) €24.00 (children 3yrs – 12yrs) Gold Section: €26.00 (adults) €18.00 (children 3yrs – 12yrs) Silver Section: €20.00 (adults) €12.00 (children 3yrs – 12yrs) Kids under 3 years of age can enter free (but they will be required to be seated on the accompanying adult)

U.S., Japan, South Africa, Thailand, Greece, Canada, Lebanon, Finland, Israel & Greenland. Wherever the show is performed, it is always supported by an experienced technical staff and an amazing technical production.

“People often underestimate these kids, but after seeing them perform, everyone is blown away. They jump straight into your heart and leave you enchanted by their joy of life,” Lars Uwe Godbersen, CEO.

Ticket Hotlines: 9999 0371 / 2141 0371 Tickets can be bought online from: www.mfcc.com.mt (for more details).

Ticket Outlets: Embassy Cinemas, Valletta and MFCC Offices, Ta’ Qali FLYING SUPERKIDS – “Cirque du Soleil meets High School Musical” – Flensburger Tageblatt

CHiLD MARCH 2015 43

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HEALTH

Photography by Jason Borg

THE NATURAL WAY TO TREAT KIDS Daniela Allen speaks to Marika Fleri about aromatherapy for children. o you sometimes get those long, long nights when your child suddenly wakes up feeling unwell with a blocked nose and is coughing inconsolably? With no doctors available and very few options at hand, the sight of a tub of natural decongestant stored in your medicine chest would feel like a Godsend.

In an ideal world all ailments would be treated using natural remedies. This, of course, is far from the case but at least they are often used to complement traditional medicine, even for children.

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One widely used method is aromatherapy – the therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being. Each essential oil has chemical constituents that offer different therapeutic benefits.

A fully qualified aromatherapist and holistic therapist for the past 20 years, Marika Fleri lists some of the oils most commonly used in children: Mandarin, Roman Chamomile, Frankincense and Lavender, for instance, are relaxing oils that can calm them down and help them enjoy a good night’s sleep.

“Conifers, Pines, Frankincense and Myrrh are my choice for blocked noses and mild coughs. Chamomile, Frankincense, Lavender and Geranium are my favourites when dealing with skin irritations. Lavender is my choice for bumps or grazed skin.”

A broader spectrum of oils can be used for older children and teenagers, which can help in concentration, relaxation, the control and prevention of acne, anger management and much more.

Essential oils are very concentrated substances and although natural, have to be treated with caution, just like any other medicine, Marika says.

Their use varies in children depending on age. When dealing with babies and toddlers up to the age of two, herbs or hydrosols (also known as floral waters, hydroflorates, flower waters or distillates) CHiLD MARCH 2015 45

HEALTH

MARIKA’S RECIPES FOR CHILD MAGAZINE Aromatherapy bath for restful sleep – from 2 years upwards • 2 drops Mandarin Essential Oil • 1 drop Roman Chamomile Essential Oil • 1 tbsp milk or honey Dilute essential oils in milk or honey.

Add to bath water. Disperse.

Aromatherapy diffuser blend for restful sleep • 2 drops Mandarin Essential Oil • 2 drops Lavender Essential Oil • 1 drop Frankincense Essential Oil Fill upper compartment of Aromatherapy Candle Burner with water.

Add essential oils. Light candle. Enjoy. Do not leave burner unattended.

Aromatherapy diffuser blend for concentration/ studying – teenagers • 2 drops lemon • 2 drops Rosemary • 1 drop Peppermint Fill upper compartment of Aromatherapy Candle Burner with water.

Add essential Oils. Light candle. Enjoy. Do not leave burner unattended.

Massage oil for stuffy noses – 4 years and up • • • • •

30ml Grapeseed Oil 2 drops Orange Essential Oil 2 drops Lavender Essential Oil 2 drops Siberian Fir Essential Oil 1 drops Frankincense Essential Oil

Massage to soles of feet before sleeping. This uses the soles as an area for applying the oils because applying to the chest might stimulate production of mucous at a faster rate. Also, the smell of oils might bother some kids. Rate of absorption is slower when applied to the feet as the skin is thicker and that makes the blend effective throughout the night.

46 CHiLD MARCH 2015

are used. This is the water left behind after steam distillation of plant materials. They are much lower in dilution than essential oils.

“There is only a small margin of oils that we actually use on small children and the dilutions are very low. As the child grows, more oils become available and the concentration also increases.”

Marika says it is of the utmost importance that professional advice is sought before the oils are used. “The aromatherapist is trained to take into consideration many factors before choosing oils, dilution and method of application. These include medical conditions the child may have.”

While most essential oils can be bought over the counter, without any safety instructions or method of use, some of the common oils could be harmful if not used properly.

These include Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Rosemary oils among others, which cannot be applied to children under the age of eight. “The high menthol content in peppermint and the 1.8 cineole in eucalyptus and rosemary stimulate cold receptors in the lungs and trigger a reflex in young children which slows down breathing significantly and sometimes dangerously.”

Eucalyptus, she explains, is a very safe oil for use on children over eight when diluted properly but if as little as 2.5ml of the oil is accidentally ingested, it can be fatal.

“I have also seen many cases where tea tree oil was being applied undiluted to the face and hair for the prevention of head lice. This is not the correct way of doing things. All essential oils should be diluted in a base oil or gel before applying to the skin as the child may become sensitised to the oil in the long term.”

Marika is passionate about holistic therapies. Her greatest wish is to erase the misconceptions people tend to have about aromatherapy.

Most people, she says, think it is just the use of nice smelling oils by a massage therapist to enhance the treatment.

“But it is much more than that. Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment in its own right, bringing balance back to the body, mind and spirit.”

Having studied advanced chemistry of essential oils and advanced clinical aromatherapy, Marika is currently also focusing on essential oil use in cancer care. She also runs Aroma Treasures, a website where she shares her knowledge of the subject.

She advises anyone who is interested to read the book that started her off on this journey: The Fragrant Pharmacy by Valerie Ann Wormwood.

The content of in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

PRoDUCTS & SERViCES

SHOPWiNDoW Easter Sunday Carvery Buffet at Ta’ Marija!

Make your Easter celebrations so much more an unforgettable occasion with a gathering filled with a lot of liveliness in an elegant setting. And on our 50th anniversary we will definitely treat your family and friends with genuinely good food in welcoming surroundings complemented by our exceptional service and duo of mandolin and guitar players.

At only €32.50 our Easter Sunday Carvery Buffet feast will boast succulent slow roasted minted lamb, crusted pork belly and honey baked gammon… and leave room for our home-made desserts as we have a trolley-full of these treats also coming to a table near you! And don’t forget our all-inclusive Carvery Buffet at just €25 on Saturday evenings and Sunday lunches complete with unlimited wine, water and coffee. Bring friends and family to our carvery feasts, which come with a delightful choice of Mediterranean and Maltese dishes. Popular singer Corazon joins in every Saturday night, captivating the audience with her mesmerizing voice and passionate songs, whilst on Wednesdays and Fridays you can enjoy our Folklore Dinner Shows with six dancers in traditional eighteenth century costumes. For bookings call on 2143 4444. Constitution Street, Mosta. info@tamarija.com. www.tamarija.com

Pampers: 12 hours of dryness

Merlin makes reading fun

Every mum recognises that a night of quality, uninterrupted sleep is beneficial for babies as they wake up rested, cheerful and ready to start their day.

Pampers Baby Dry have unique double dry zones, a new soft absorbing layer and a core which locks in wetness better than the next leading nappy for up to 12 hours of dryness. For local trade enquiries, call VJ Salomone (Marketing) 2298 3201. www.vjsm.com.mt

Following the success of last year’s set of four picture books in Maltese in the Id-Dinja Tiegħi series, Merlin Publishers have just published a further four titles, including a follow-up to the hugely successful Lupu Lupettu kull kulur. These contemporary, stunningly illustrated stories are perfect to make reading in Maltese fun. They are available in all bookshops or from www.merlinpublishers.com

Feed baby with Philips Avent With 30 years of clinical experience in baby feeding, Philips Avent’s products are here to give baby the best start in life, with a full range of products: bottles, cups, soothers, electric and manual pumps, breast pads, monitors and much more. Philips Avent is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, tel: 2144 620/5.

Plasmon Sapori yoghurts Plasmon has recently introduced a range of Sapori Di Natura yoghurts, now making snack time more fun and interesting for your baby. A great addition to the weaning diet, they are not only tasty and creamier in consistency, but they are also loaded with vitamins and minerals. For more information call us on 8007 3102 or follow us on Facebook; Plasmon (Malta).

Spaces by Mundo Joven Rimobel know how to help you make the most of the spaces. Mundo Joven was created to offer new solutions and practical ideas by using a simple and modern design, where every room can be tailor made. The full Mundo Joven collection is on display at R Living, Mrieħel Bypass Qormi, tel: 21499 699, info@rliving.com.mt , www.rimobel.es

48 CHiLD MARCH 2015

NUK… choose the best The shape of the NUK Dummy is based on a mother’s nipple during breastfeeding. Soft and flexible, it helps soothe baby and promote healthy mouth development. Available in different shapes, designs and materials. For trade enquiries contact Cherubino Ltd. Tel: 2134 3270.

PRoDUCTS & SERViCES Ronaldo underwear World famous sportsman Cristiano Ronaldo has collaborated with New York based designer Richard Chai to create a debut collection of underwear and socks. The range has been created in partnership with leading Danish textile group JBS, who have over 70 years’ experience in developing and producing high end underwear.

Munchkin Disney range Munchkin is proud to introduce its Disney baby range, including spill proof cups, training cups, flip straw cups, dining sets and door bouncers with Disney characters. Found in leading supermarket, pharmacies and baby shops and is exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, Tel: 2144 6205/6.

A perfect match St Edward’s college registration St Edward’s College is now accepting registrations for 2015/2016. This covers Nursery for age 2 to 3, Kindergarten, Junior School, Middle & Senior School and international Baccalaureate Diploma at Sixth Form level. Boarding facilities are also available for boys in Middle & Senior School and for boys and girls studying iB. Call 2788 1199 (ext. 3) or email admissions@stedwards.edu.mt.

Leave bedwetting high and dry The journey to dryness can be unpredictable and up to one in four children wet the bed. Most get dry in their own time, but in the meantime there’s DryNites to help them through the phase. They provide unbeatable overnight protection for a good night’s sleep. For trade enquiries, tel: 2146 0375.

Some things bring out the best in each other, like Persil Non-Bio and Comfort Pure. Use them together for fresh, pure and gentle results that sensitive skin loves.

Why choose Comfort Pure? When clothes are washed their fibres can start to tangle and bobble. Comfort Pure keeps fibres smoother so clothes feel soft and gentle. it’s dermatologically tested with skincare research recognised by the British Skin Foundation. it’s the recommended choice for delicate skin.

PRoDUCTS & SERViCES Hi-tech Supa stroller

SHOPWiNDoW Milton – protection from germs Milton, the experts in hygiene, have developed the Milton Antibacterial Hand Gel, which instantly kills all germs, while leaving your hands soft and moisturised. The Milton Room and Surface Spray is ideal to kill germs in the air, like the flu virus. Keeping you and your home safe from germs. Trade enquiries: Cherubino Ltd, tel: 2134 3270.

SMA Progress milk for toddler Growing up milk such as SMA Progress Kids provides all the necessary nutrients even through phases of fussy eating. it is specifically designed for toddlers aged 1 to 4 years. it provides a high source of iron thus eliminating the possibility of iron deficiency to which toddlers aged 1 to 4 years are extremely vulnerable.

Supa is the winner of 2015 Mother and Baby Gold Award for Best Lightweight Buggy/Stroller. More than just a stroller, Supa features a multimedia gadget pocket with speaker, plus ‘Window-on-the-World’ display pocket for flash cards or films on your tablet. View it at t’Angelina, Mrieħel Bypass, Mrieħel.

iDO for dynamic kids iDo is the line of children’s wear delivering designs from newborn to 16 years old. it is meant for dynamic children who play, romp and have a thousand things to do. 166, St Joseph High Street, Ħamrun. Tel 21232889, e-mail: ido@jjscerri.com. Facebook: iDO Malta.

Materna nutrition in breastfeeding NUK baby bottle cleanser Nuk’s Baby Bottle Cleanser has been specifically designed for cleaning all types of baby bottles, soothers and accessories. it is based on natural ingredients and contains specific enzymes which effectively remove milk protein, pulp and juice residues. its mild formula makes it ‘baby safe’. For trade enquiries, please contact Cherubino Ltd. on 2134 3270.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is important to choose a multivitamin that is especially formulated to support the nutritional requirements of a nursing mother.

Nestlé Materna helps provide the vitamins and minerals you need.

Mio for baby’s needs Nestlé Mio® has always been close to mothers and their babies and places at your service its experience in the field of infant nutrition. its wide range of products helps you prepare your baby’s meal in a balanced way and give your baby all the nutrients it needs.

Aptamil for a growing child Cow’s milk is fine for older children but at daily recommended volumes, it does not contain the amounts of nutrients that your toddler needs.Aptamil 3 with Pronutra+ supports brain development and contributes to a healthy immune system. it is ideal for 1 year olds. Aptamil 4 with Pronutra+ should be given to children after their 2nd birthday.

DISCOUNT VOUCHER

#

10% off

at early learning centre This voucher is to be redeemed by April 4, 2015. it is not valid with any other offer.

Kindly present this voucher to the cashier prior to payment.

E-mail: info@elctoysmalta.com Web: www.elctoysmalta.com

50 CHiLD MARCH 2015

NEXT summer fashion is here Whatever their style, we’ve got summer covered. Girls will love the effortless casual pieces, such as a retro inspired floral print theme.

Boys will dig the cool, mix and match street wear inspired range.