Child (November 2016)

The magazine for parents

CHiLD ISSUE 53, November 26, 2016

INCLUSIVE EDUCATION Sharing and giving

Practical science

PREPARING FOR

CHRISTMAS

PLUS: CONFLICT RESOLUTION, RECIPES, FILMS AND GAMES

ALFRED GERA & SONS LT LTD. TEL: 2144 6205

Cover photo

by Darrin Zammit Lupi

CHiLD ISSUE 53 November 26, 2016

Contents

Reviving the true spirit of Christmas

Features 6

Values: Instilling a Christmas spirit

10 Behaviour: Coaching children to give and share 14 Education: What is inclusive education?

19 Films: Christmas movies 22 Science: A visit to Esplora 28 Games: Board games 31 Arts: The Maltese Islands Festival 39 Skills: Learning to resolve conflict 45 Food: Traditional and healthy options

Regulars 35 Promo: Books in Maltese 48 Shop Window: The best of goods 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 Stephanie Fsadni Editorial Assistant Lorella Fava Publisher Allied Newspapers Limited Printing Progress Press Limited Production Allied Newspapers Limited Contributors Charlene Aquilina, Sandy Calleja Portelli, Jo Caruana, Luca Caruana, Joanne Cocks, Gloria Mizzi Photography Chris Sant Fournier, Darrin Zammit Lupi Design Krista Aquilina, Manuel Schembri Advertising Sales Amanda Gauci (tel: 2559 4705; e-mail: amanda.gauci@timesofmalta.com).

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

All rights reserved. © 2016 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is prohibited.

4 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

The festive season loved most by children is upon us but its true meaning may be somewhat lost amid all the glitzy decorations, celebrations, gifts and mince pies. Do kids know what Christmas is truly about?

Child delves into the religious aspect of this festivity and various other related themes such as sharing and giving, volunteering, family time and friendship.

Lorella Fava visits a school to see how its students are getting prepared to celebrate Jesus’s birth.

Generosity abounds around this time of year but it does not come naturally to young children to give and share their belongings. Parents and caregivers can, however, help them develop this altruistic trait, says psychologist Charlene Aquilina.

Children would also benefit if they learned how to resolve conflicts with friends, family or teachers. A new set of cards might help them develop this skill, as Luca Caruana finds out.

Veteran cook Gloria Mizzi reminisces about cooking for her family and gives some festive recipes, while Jo Caruana goes behind the scenes of the first ever Maltese Islands Festival, which will be held in early December.

As school nears the end of the first term, Sandy Calleja Portelli discusses inclusive education and the advances made in this respect by the Maltese education system.

Wondering where to take your children at the weekends or during the upcoming holidays? Do like Joanne Cocks and visit the new interactive science centre in Kalkara, where you and your children are apt to have fun while learning new things.

But it’s not necessary to go anywhere if you would just like to spend some quality time with your children.

Playing board games or watching some cheery Christmas films at home can help bond families.

This is the last issue of Child for 2016. Hope you enjoyed leafing through its pages for another year. I thank you for your support and I wish you and your children a blessed Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

We’ll catch up in 2017!

VALUES

What ever happened to Consumerism has taken over the festive period, with most children (and adults) perhaps forgetting what this important feast is really about. Lorella Fava visits a school to see how its educators and students are trying to revive the religious aspect of Christmas. ntil a couple of decades ago, Christmas was truly Through the organisation of concerts, magical. It wasn’t about iPads, the latest smartthe story of Christmas becomes phones or any other gifts that could possibly something everyone can relate to. send families into bankruptcy. Children, as well as adults, were happy doing simple things, keeping in mind that Christmas is much more about being together than getting your hands on expensive items.

Christmas Eve was characterised by excited children going home after Midnight Mass to wait for Santa. And on Christmas Day, these same children would wake up to the smell of home-cooked treats as they opened Santa’s presents and awaited the rest of the family to join them in the blessing of a meal together…. rather than embarking on ski trips to fancy resorts around the globe.

“God decided So, one might ask, what ever happened he wanted to be to Christmas? close to human Many people agree that Christmas has beings and we in turn been too commercialised. Parents are “For me, however, it not only means Jesus’s need to be close to often heard complaining about how unjourney as a person, which means a lot in itgrateful their children are and how they reself, but it’s also a completely different way in each other in ally cannot afford the vast array of gifts they which a person views himself, the world around solidarity” bestow on everyone. Yet, despite this, they him and, finally, God,” she says. continue to do the same thing year in, year out She adds that Christmas should not be seen as an lest they disappoint their children or leave the opportunity to impress your neighbours and friends impression that they don’t have the money to buy an with what you are capable of buying your children, but that it expensive gift. represents the ultimate value of love.

This is a far cry from what the true spirit of Christmas is all “If God is so close, then the value of love is essential. God about. The headmistress of St Monica School in Gżira, Sr decided he wanted to be close to human beings and we in Veronica, laments that people are forgetting that, above all, turn need to be close to each other in solidarity.”

Christmas “is one of the most important feasts of the year and Stressing further on this, she draws the example of St one of the central days in Christianity as it celebrates the birth Nicholas and the many changes this iconic figure has underof Jesus Christ.” gone throughout the years.

U

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early learning centre 193, Merchant Street, Valletta – Tel: 21236228 61, St Paul Street, Rabat – Tel: 21456385 Triq Fortunato Mizzi, Victoria – Tel: 21560157

www.elctoysmalta.com

VALUES The school organises visits to elderly homes, where the students give the residents gifts and the school choir sings carols to cheer them up.

A little student initiated one such activity.

“She came up with the idea of doing something positive with the rest of her class. Other students liked her idea and now every class buys a plate of rice for the children in Africa,” enthuses Sr Veronica.

“This may be the result of our teachings as we try to explain to students that while they are asking for expensive gifts such as iPhones, iPads and video games, others, such as a boy in Africa, would only wish for a bowl of rice to satisfy his hunger. Many of them are shocked when they are faced with this reality.”

Various activities are held to raise funds for charity.

St Nicholas of Myra was a fourth-century Greek Christian bishop who was famous for his generous gifts to the poor. He was a very religious man from an early age and devoted his life entirely to Christianity.

“Santa Claus is much more a product of the media, the economy and a spokesman for “Christmas various companies, rather than anything should not be seen that has to do with religion,” Sr Veronica The school also organises visits to elderly as an opportunity to comments. homes, where the students give the resiimpress your neighbours Despite being somewhat of a strugdents gifts and the choir sings carols to and friends with what you gle, Sr Veronica insists there are many cheer them up. things one can do to keep the religious The school further focuses on trying to are capable of buying your aspect of Christmas alive. make the Christmas message identifiable children; it rather She emphasises the importance of with the students. For instance, the Christrepresents the teaching children to be appreciative and mas Service for the secondary school is orultimate value giving, and not only around Christmas. The ganised by the fifth formers. They deliver the of love” school attempts to carry this message Christmas message in their own way, often huthrough its pastoral programme that runs all year morously, so that everyone can relate to it. and which focuses on a particular theme each year, for “It isn’t easy living in the society we live in today but example, love or forgiveness. we never give up. Children can be taught and it is our respon“First we focus on how much we really need the love or forsibility to teach them.” giveness. Then, by the end of the year, we move on to giving Sr Veronica encourages parents to take the same aprather than receiving – now that I have received what I need… proach: “Teach your kids values, not just during Christmas but I will help others,” explains Sr Veronica. all year round.

“We need to first learn how to receive and appreciate what “Teach them to appreciate the little things in life, like going we receive and then give back. This is what Christmas is out in the countryside and looking at the beauty that surall about.” rounds us. There is no point in teaching children that they The school thus aims to build strong values and character don’t need extravagant gifts if you don’t teach them that they traits among its students. can be happy without them.”

As Christmas rolls around, many initiatives keep building Moreover, she says that if they appreciate the small and on the school’s teachings. simple things in life, they will automatically appreciate and Apart from collecting money for Puttinu Cares and the Chilunderstand the message of Christmas. dren’s Dreams project (set up by Appoġġ), among other char“Consumerism will never be eliminated and it shouldn’t for ities, and organising activities such as crib competitions, the the sake of the children who will, as they grow older, want to school has its own special way of instilling the Christmas spirit be like everyone else. But it is important to control it – herein in its students. lies the key to reviving the true meaning of Christmas.”

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BEHAVIOUR

CULTIVATING GENEROSITY While a feeling of generosity wafts in the air around Christmas, sharing and giving do not generally come naturally to children.

However, they can grasp these concepts with some gentle coaching, says psychologist Charlene Aquilina. ow often do your children whine when Children aged four to five may start to engage in someone plays with their toys at school selective sharing. It is important that children are or at home? Irrespective of whether it given the space to see what toys or objects they are is a school mate or a sibling/relative, willing to share and those which they are not willing children, especially the younger ones, to share. For example, a child may find it easier to find it difficult to share. share a ball rather than his special tattered blanket.

Sharing is quite a complex act and requires a cerTherefore, as parents or main caregivers, it is crucial tain level of cognitive and emotional development. to respect the children’s attachment to their chosen It involves holding multiple thoughts in mind, such special toys. as “that teddy bear is mine but my sister currently has it”. It also involves an understanding of time: As parents or main caregivers, it is crucial to respect the children’s attachment to “you will get the teddy bear back after five minutes”. their chosen special toys.

Sharing is not something which generally comes naturally, especially for children, and one must appreciate their current developmental level. One must also consider a child’s temperament because every child is unique. Some children are calmer and more collaborative by nature while others require more nurturing to develop certain skills.

Toddlers tend to be egocentric and they would have just started to gradually see themselves more as individuals “It rather than extensions of their paris pivotal to ents. At this age they would also emphasise that it have started to recognise that they is normal for prepossess things. In fact, a common schoolers to have word used at two or three years The underlying and immense imdifficulty with is: “mine!” portance of forming a secure parentsharing” At such a young age, children still child attachment remains at the fulcrum put their needs first and may feel of everything. Children who feel loved upset when not immediately gratified. and who have a good self-worth are more Hence, it is pivotal to emphasise that it is norlikely to be generous and form better relationmal for pre-schoolers to have difficulty with sharing. ships with peers.

True sharing also involves empathy, putting yourWhile sharing can be defined as giving a ‘part’ of self in the other person’s shoes. And true empathy something to another person, giving involves transtends to develop after five years of age. As children ferring the ‘complete’ possession of something to have more opportunities to play with peers, somesomeone else. Giving involves remaining with ‘nothtimes also through coaching and guidance, they ing’ but, really and truly, earning a greater sense of then begin to appreciate the value of sharing. satisfaction back.

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BEHAVIOUR Young children do not understand the concept of sharing.

Both giving and sharing are meaningful and may be more likely to take place when people come from a more safe, stable and secure life position. When people feel that their basic physiological and “Volunteering emotional needs are satisfied, they is an excellent may be in a greater position to give form of giving back to others. in today’s Giving and well-being go hand in world” hand. Various studies suggest that when people give their time, objects or financial support (among other things) to others, they are more likely to feel happier, satisfied, Children can be coached by their parents to choose a new toy worthy and less stressed. Being generous and givto buy to other children who are experiencing more hardships. ing gifts in an appropriate manner is also linked with showing love and appreciation towards the other opportunities may include visiting a children’s hosperson. In turn, this is likely to positively influence pital and giving gifts to children there, or sponsoring the bond between persons. a meal for a family who is living in poverty. Through The act of giving is also related with altruism and such opportunities, children may begin to form an compassion. Giving gifts to others without expectunderstanding of what other children/people may ing anything in return gives the gift-giver be feeling. intrinsic satisfaction in seeing the gift-receiver’s It is essential that parents teach their children to positive reaction. value both giving and receiving presents. Parents Volunteering is an excellent form of giving in may also help their children to show appreciation in today’s world. There are so many people who would various ways, including hugging and praising, and benefit from more support that the gift of time and not only through presents. presence remains a priority. Research on volunteerThrough the expression of secure love and attening and well-being also suggests that people who tion, be it through gifts and through other means, volunteer are likely to live happier and longer lives. children are more likely to feel worthy of being loved Children can be coached by their parents to and are thus happier. Thus, it is more beneficial to choose a new toy to buy to other children who are focus on emotional gifts and time, and to make these currently experiencing more hardships. Other gifts a daily commitment to our families.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 11

BEHAVIOUR

Giving at Christmastime Parents may thrive on watching the sheer joy on children’s faces as they open their Christmas presents.

However, it is important to keep a few tips in mind during this special season.

First of all, one must remember that material gifts do not replace the richness of quality time and full attention.

In such a busy world, time and attention are two of the most precious gifts parents can give to their children.

To avoid excessive focus on the material world, children can be asked to make a list of what makes them happy rather than a list of what they want for Christmas.

This can include doing activities with the family, inParents can model sharing by dedicating equal playing time to their children as much as possible. cluding camping, baking, watching a film and so on.

“Material It is important that during these activities, gifts do not children have the one-to-one attention of replace the the parents; yes, this means having your richness of quality Encouraging and helping children learn how mobiles switched off! In this way, Christmas to share requires a lot of time and patience as presents may not necessarily equate with time and full well as gentle coaching. It is much more useful solely material gifts but also with special attention” if a child is not forced to share. Instead, an envitime gifts. ronment which promotes collaboration and modAdditionally, children may be helped to creelling of sharing is encouraged. ate presents for their loved ones. For example, parParents can comment and ask questions related to sharing. ents may engage in a craft activity whereby they create For example: “Would you like some of my crisps?”. Sharing a card or gift for each other. the attachment figure may also prove to be difficult for chilGifts can also be chodren. Parents can model sharing by dedicating equal playing sen wisely. If parents retime to their children (as much as possible). alise that their children Before a play date, the parents can sit with their children and have a particular talent talk about which toys they would like to share and which they want or interest in a special to guard as their own. Through this, the child’s interests would be area, they may encourprotected yet the child would be learning to share as well. age the development of Also, in a party, children can be asked to go round the room this talent by choosing a and offer items (like flowers, food, toys) to the other guests in gift that is likely to supa way that promotes generosity. Through this, the message port their progression in that sharing is the norm is conveyed and children start to exthis area. Consequently, perience the positive feelings associated with it. gifts can be seen as opOffering choices is also empowering for the child, “Would portunities to further deyou like to share your blue truck or your white truck?”. velop the learning of Parents are also encouraged to label their children’s feelings. certain skills.

Children’s behaviour is a means of communication. If children When it comes to Children can be asked to do not have the emotional language to express themselves opening the Christmas make a list of what makes them happy rather than a list of what they may engage in various forms of behaviour, including tempresents, it would be they want for Christmas. per tantrums, to make their voice heard. Hence, it is helpful if more significant if a speparents reflect back their child’s emotion; for instance, “Jack, cial ritual is developed in are you feeling afraid you will not get your soft toy back?”. In order to help the children be more mindful of these mothis way, children will start to recognise their own feelings and ments. Presents may be opened one at a time and chilwith time they may increase their verbal emotional language. dren can be asked to describe their present in order to Parents may also feel the urge to step in when children are havfurther savour the moment. ing trouble with sharing. It is helpful to allow the children to solve problems but sometimes they may require some guidance.

Ms Aquilina is a warranted clinical psychologist. She also has a Parents may say: “It seems that both of you want to play with the postgraduate diploma in family therapy and is currently reading for a giraffe. How are you going to solve this?”. Parents need to give Masters in family therapy and systemic practice. She has substantial children the space to learn to resolve small feuds by themselves experience in working with children, adolescents, couples/parents and praise their positive behaviours in the process. and families. charlene_clinicalpsychologist@yahoo.com.

How can parents encourage children to share?

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EDUCATION

INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: THE BROADER CONCEPT 14 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

EDUCATION

The term ‘inclusive education’ has become something of a buzzword in recent years but what does it really mean? Sandy Calleja Portelli finds that apart from being a process, it is also a philosophy that brings together students, families, educators and community members. She also learns about the progress the Maltese education system has made in this area. nclusive education is often understood as a euphemism for helping children with so-called ‘special needs’ progress in their education; a notion that is perhaps further strengthened by the fact that the best known resource of inclusive education is the introduction of learning support assistants (LSA) in the classrooms. However, there is more to inclusive education than providing LSAs. “Early definitions of ‘inclusion’ focused on the valuing and acceptance of difference and the rights of students to not only attend mainstream schools but also to belong as valued members,” explains Dolores Gauci, head, Development and Implementation Strategy, Education for All. “Apart from a process, inclusion is also a philosophy that brings together students, families, educators and community members to create schools and societies based on acceptance, belonging and community. In general, inclusion in schools is based on collaboration, support and nurturing environments that address learners’ needs to learn, as well as respecting and learning from each other’s individual differences.

“In so doing, reference is not only made to learners with physical/intellectual disabilities or conditions but to all learners present in schools, thereby broadening the scope of inclusion to include other diversities such as gender, class, race, ethnicity, religion, socio-economic status, type of family as well as ability.

“Therefore, inclusive education is about the inclusion of all learners irrespective of talent, ability, socio-economic background, gender or cultural origin in supportive mainstream schools and classrooms where students’ needs are met. In other words, using the concept of inclusion ensures that all learners are recognised as having diverse needs and abilities, valued for their shared humanity and educated in an environment where personal diversity is regarded as an asset and enriching.”

The philosophy of inclusion may apear to be common sense; all students should have access to education in order to realise their potential and grow to be independent adults.

Nevertheless, the situation in our schools is far from being optimal.

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“The concept of inclusion ensures that all learners are recognised as having diverse needs and abilities, valued for their shared humanity and educated in an environment where personal diversity is regarded as an asset and enriching” As former president of KNPD (Kummissjoni għad-Drittijiet ta’ Persuni b’Diżabilità or National Commission for Persons with Disability), Joseph Camilleri pointed out at last year’s Gordon C. Cardona Memorial Lecture, “inclusive education in Malta isn’t functioning as it should” although matters have improved greatly over time.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 15

EDUCATION Ms Gauci agrees. She says that “over the past years, the Maltese education system experienced a complete transformation process.

There has been an evolution from little or no education provisions for ‘minority learners’ to segregated systems, to systems of integration and, more recently, towards inclusive education.

“In fact, official data from the European Agency for Special Needs and Inclusive Education (EASNIE) shows that Malta has a mainstream placement rate of 5.4 per cent and a segregated placement rate of just over 0.1 per cent, which is also one of the lowest scores across EU countries.”

The Maltese education system has developed numerous support services and structures to help diverse learners. The philosophy being that learners need to “be allowed time and given the necessary support for their personal development” since they all “develop at different rates”.

A Student Services Department (SSD) has been set up to ensure “effective and efficient operation and delivery of services to schools in an established framework of decentralisation and autonomy”.

In order to facilitate the inclusion of learners with different forms of disabilities/conditions, as well as of learners who experience low educational attainment in mainstream schools and classrooms, the system provides the provision of LSAs, resource centres (previously known as special schools), learning support centres and nurture groups, together with various specialist and peripatetic teachers such as SEBD (social, emotional and behavioural difficulties) specialists, inclusion specialists, inclusive coordinators, literacy support teachers, numeracy support teachers, early intervention teachers, autism support teachers and complementary teachers.

More recently, support is being provided to newly-arrived learners to Malta who do not speak/understand either English or Maltese in order to prepare them for their life in mainstream schools.

The EASNIE (External Audit of Special Needs Inclusive Education) audit of 2015 also highlighted a number of shortcomings in the system, including a lack of school administrators trained in this area and a lack of resources.

A 2003 study on exam access arrangements in Malta carried out by the Ministry for Education and Employment (MEDE) highlights one of the main issues in ensuring all students are catered for – the issue of logistics in extending longer examination sessions for students who need it due to external factors such as school transport.

This study focused on just one area of inclusion but it would not be a stretch to conclude that other inclusive measures are also affected by such issues.

“Over the past years, the Maltese education system experienced a complete transformation process”

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The ministry is aware of these problems and Ms Gauci explained what steps are being taken to rectify matters.

“The current systems and services of support succeeded in integrating learners with physical and intellectual disabilities as well as newly-arrived learners in schools. The way forward now is to develop the current systems to put all learners’ educational needs and interests at the heart of the educational experience as recommended by the EASNIE through the report’s recommendations,” she says.

“Following the publication of the external report, MEDE set up a formal structure in the ministry entitled ‘Education for All’. The aim was to ensure ownership of all recommendations in the audit report and envisage ways how these can be implemented successfully.

“A number of concept papers and action plans, involving a wide range of stakeholders from the three educational sectors, were developed. These focus on good governance and effective leadership, effective continuous professional development, effective and production teaching and learning processes, effective organisation of support structures and transforming schools into positive learning communities, among other areas.

The envisaged next phase is the implementation in schools using the Development Model Approach.”

Perhaps inclusive education is not quite what it should be in our schools but it is heartening to learn that the issue is being tackled by the ministry concerned. One hopes the situation, will continue to improve so that every child can indeed be empowered to reach their true potential.

PROMO

Developing the mind through playtime A toy is as important for the mind of a child as is food for the body. Like a healthy diet, playtime should consist of a portion of creative, imaginative and active play. This would include toys which stimulate creativity and imagination, which develop hand/eye coordination; which encourage the learning of letters, numbers and colours; which develop the constructive talents of children to build and create; and toys which encourage social interaction and physical or outdoor activity.

For over 40 years, British brand Early Learning Centre has been creating toys that stimulate the healthy development of the child’s body and mind besides helping them grow into happy, self-confident people. The toys are designed to help children explore the boundaries of their imagination and creativity and to make learning fun.

When designing toys, ELC works closely with experts such as child psychologists, leading designers, nursery specialists and the real experts, the children themselves. Together, all these stakeholders make sure that all ELC toys are top quality, great fun and, above all, absolutely safe. ELC toys are, in fact, well known for their

safety considerations and good quality material. Plastics do not contain phthalates, while products like paints and soft stuff (such as play dough) are non-toxic.

ELC is also very environmentally responsible. All of ELC wooden toys come with the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) logo which is the mark of responsible forestry. As regards ELC stores, these are designed to assist parents to find the best toy for their child in terms of features and age suitability. Icons on products make it easy to identify the benefits of each toy.

If one does not want to carry the shopping home, ELC can arrange for toys purchased to be delivered to one’s door. Delivery is free if the order is of more than €30. One can also purchase toys from the comfort of one’s home. Visit www.elctoysmalta.com, place your order and get it delivered right to your door for free (terms and conditions apply). Early Learning Centre stores are found in Valletta, Rabat and Victoria.

FILMS

A SNUG NIGHT IN Christmas preparations tend to be very exciting but often tiring too. This is why it’s a good idea to carve out some time to relax with your children and feel festive without running around in the busy, hectic streets. One of the best ways to do this is to get wrapped up in a good Christmas film, be it an all-time classic such as Miracle on 34th Street or a quirky, darker film like Tim Burton’s A Nightmare Before Christmas. To help you do just that, here’s our top 10 list of films you might want to consider viewing during this festive season.

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IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946)

Based on the short story The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern, It’s a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey (James Stewart), a small town resident riddled with problems. His life is played out to us in flashbacks: his hopes of travelling, his romance with childhood sweetheart Mary (Donna Reed) and his protecting the town from the evil banker Mr Potter (Lionel Barrymore) with his own savings and loan company. When everything around him crumbles, he finds himself standing on a bridge on Christmas Eve contemplating suicide. Suddenly, an angel appears to him and proceeds to show him what the world will be like without him. The film celebrates the power of community and defiant optimism. Bailey’s

4 journey to despair and back is now among the most popular Christmas stories.

A NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (1993)

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Originating as a poem by Tim Burton in 1982, the story is rather dark and uncanny, in typical Burton tradition.

A Nightmare Before Christmas tells the story of Jack Skellington, a resident from Halloween Town. Despite leading the town in organising the annual Halloween holiday, Jack has grown weary of the same routine, and wants something new.

Wandering dejectedly in the woods, he stumbles across seven trees containing doors leading to other towns, and accidentally opens a portal to Christmas Town.

The film encourages its audience to sit back and soak

up the rickety gleam of the grotesque as Burton gives Christmas a dark twist while maintaining its spirit.

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MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (1947)

Based on a story by Valentine Davies, the Oscar-winning fantasy takes place between Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day in New York City.

The story centres on Macy’s executive Doris Walker (Maureen O’Hara) and her daughter Susan (Natalie Wood).

Doris is in charge of hiring Santas for the department store. When she hires Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), he does a remarkably convincing job and he soon reveals that he actually believes himself to be Santa Clause.

Concentrating on family and relationships, the film has definitely become a

Christmas favourite. It has had two remakes, a TV movie in 1973 and another big screen release in 1994.

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HOME ALONE (1990)

An eight-year-old troublemaker, Kevin (Macaulay Culkin), must protect his home from a pair of burglars when his family accidentally leaves him home alone during the Christmas holidays.

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FILMS Focusing on friendship, bravery and the spirit of Christmas, the film reminds its audience of the beauty of childhood as “the bell only rings for those who truly believe”.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (2000)

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6 Kevin’s unsupervised indulgences in adult videos, ice cream sundaes and interior sled-rides, as well as his victoriously cunning booby traps, spread across his vast wood-panelled house, guarantee a great time for the whole family.

Home Alone is often ranked among the greatest Christmas films of all-time. It spawned four sequels.

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ELF (2003)

On Christmas Eve in 1972, an orphaned infant boy creeps out of his crib and into Santa’s bag.

When discovered back at the North Pole, he is adopted

by Papa Elf (Bob Newhart) and named William (Will Ferrell), referred to as Buddy.

Buddy is raised at the North Pole and works in Santa’s workshop with the elves but due to his human size is unable to perform elf tasks. Shocked when he finally discovers he is human, not elf, he sets off to New York City to find his biological father.

The film is full of heart and has a wicked sense of humour.

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A CHRISTMAS CAROL (2009)

Charles Dickens’s classic novel has been adapted several times but a recent one that stands out is surely Walt Disney’s animated 20 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

retelling starring Jim Carrey as the Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of selfredemption.

The latest adaption of the tale brings this magical world of time travel to life with fantastical 3D scenes including Scrooge being chased through London by a haunted carriage, and Scrooge being dropped into his own grave by the Spirit of Yet To Come.

A classic that still speaks to generations today, Dickens’s tale is not one to miss.

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THE POLAR EXPRESS (2004)

The 3D animated musical fantasy film is based on the 1985 children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. It was listed in the Guinness World Book of Records in 2006 as the first all-digital capture film.

On Christmas Eve in the mid-1950s, a boy wrestles with his growing misgivings over the existence of Santa.

His troubled sleep is interrupted by the arrival of a billowing steam train called the Polar Express that is about to depart for the North Pole.

When the boy examines the engine, the conductor lets him board the train. Here he meets other children, including a girl and a knowit-all kid with a hyperactive personality.

Based on the 1957 story of the same name by Dr Seuss, the story is set in the outskirts of Whoville where a green, revenge-seeking Grinch plans on ruining Christmas lives.

Brought to town by mistake when he was a baby, he was bullied as a child for being different. One Christmas season he lost his temper, went on a rampage and ran away to live on a mountain to the north of Whoville, Mount Crumpit.

Years later, a little girl named Cindy Lou decides to try befriending him. The story follows her to Mount Crumpit in her attempt to incorporate the Grinch back into society.

With three Academy Award nominations and an off-thewall performance reminiscent of The Mask, The Grinch will surely serve as a good night in for all the family.

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THE SANTA CLAUSE (1994)

This light, family-friendly holiday comedy sees Tim Allen as Scott Calvin, a divorced father who is distressed to learn that his ex-wife and his son’s stepfather have informed his son that there is no Santa Claus.

While Charlie visits his dad on Christmas Eve, a noise on the roof brings them outside, where Scott startles the intruder, who tumbles from the roof. It turns out that there is a Santa after all, and Scott has just killed him.

Because of a legal technicality known as “the Santa clause”, Scott inherits his job.

The jolly, old-fashioned film was followed by two sequels, The Santa Clause 2 (2002) and The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006).

10

JACK FROST (1998)

The comedy drama revolves around a little boy, Charlie (Joseph Cross), who loses his father, Jack (Michael Keaton), in a car accident.

One year later, Charlie, still in mourning over his father’s death, makes a snowman that bears as much of a resemblance to his father as he can possibly remember and plays Jack’s harmonica just before going to sleep.

The harmonica turns out to be magical as it resurrects Jack and his spirit awakens in the snowman.

The film follows the journey of the father as he tries to reconnect with his son.

Jack Frost is a children’s flick that is remarkably refreshing and well worth a watch.

SCIENCE

Exploring Photos by Joanne Cocks

HANDS ON Finding what to do with your children on any given holiday can be quite a headache for parents who don’t want them to spend the day watching TV or playing on a tablet. Esplora, the recently-opened interactive science centre, provides a good diversion while making learning fun.

Joanne Cocks heads to Bighi with her family in tow. remember visiting the Science and Natural History museums in London as a teen. I used to be fascinated not just by the sheer size of the museum but also by the exhibits there.

Those visits helped me better understand how rivers formed; what it was like to be in an earthquake and what a dinosaur could actually look like. And all this simply because I could try and create a river myself and experience what an earthquake felt like by stepping into a room that shook and simulated a strong quake that had taken place in Kobe, Japan.

Then it was back to the rock and science class, where I had to try hard to understand how electricity was generated.

I

22 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

Not being very scientifically-inclined, I struggled with science subjects such as physics. So when I learnt that finally Malta was going to have its own hands-on science centre – even though it came years beyond my school years – I was thrilled.

I am no longer that teen of many moons ago but, having a 10-year-old son, I thought I could go through the experience with him.

I was lucky enough to be joined by Matthew, my son, for an interview at Esplora before it actually opened its doors. I was writing a piece for Eye Spy, Times of Malta’s weekly children’s pages and we were both going to see some of the exhibits.

However, nothing could prepare me to a fullblown experience a few weeks later.

SCIENCE

Matthew (right) and Kyran were ‘electrified’ by the electricity section.

I had promised Matthew that we’d visit as soon as Esplora opened its doors and all the exhibits were up and running. So there we were on that day during mid-term when together with my husband and Kyran, Matthew’s friend, we made it down south.

The former naval hospital on that imposing hill in Bighi has been very tastefully refurbished and complemented with new modern structures and facilities.

The boys – and that includes my husband – were looking forward and could not wait to step inside and get going. Matthew definitely had the upper hand, having been round the premises a few days earlier and could lead the way from one item to the next.

The enthusiasm on everybody’s face seemed to be contagious.

Everywhere I looked, people – young “There and old – were having a great time. is nothing The larger rooms of the buildings wrong in have been transformed to house the 200+ interactive and educations exVarious workshops and a scibecoming hibits about various scientific topics. ence theatre were available on the a child They show how science is relevant in day – these can be chosen on getagain” daily life and give an insight into how ting your tickets at the entrance. That things actually work. is where we headed to after a quick The exhibits cover various topics, including lunch in the bright cafeteria, only a stone’s motion; earth and eco life; the human body; electhrow from the cot lift which houses historic tricity and optics; engineering and telecommuniinformation and tells the story of the hospital and cations and the nature of matter. There is also an some of the people who lived, worked and were illusions room with 3D paintings to distorted body treated there. images; a musical corridor and music room comWe had time to go through some of the main halls plete with a chordless harp; and a number of and try our hands at the different exhibits. logic puzzles.

Time flew and before we knew it, it was time for The really young visitors are not sidelined and a us to head back home, stopping first at the shop specific area targeting babies to eight-year-olds on our way out from where we bought a few things definitely goes down a treat with visitors. to take back home with us.

And if the indoors is not for you, then head outIn the car the boys were still discussing what side. Find a spot on one of the benches and take their favourite exhibits were. That was not enough. in the breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour, They were already planning their next visit.

Valletta and the breakwater.

One thing’s for sure. I am also looking forward to As I sat outside lapping the warmth of that it and counting the days to when the planetarium, November morning, the children were sliding with a colourspace 4K theatre, opens its doors. down ‘a rabbit hole’ and having fun on a pirate There is nothing wrong in becoming a child ship partially buried in sand. again.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 23

SCIENCE

A visit to Esplora as seen through the eyes of Matthew Bonnici Cocks, 10 I had managed to go behind the scenes of Esplora and get a glimpse of some of the exhibits before they opened to the public. I had accompanied mamà for an interview.

However I couldn’t wait to see the final piece of the puzzle and how all the exhibits worked.

It was the mid-term holidays and my parents took me and my best friend Kyran to Esplora.

On arrival, we first visited the motion area and went on Zeppa the ship. We tugged and pulled at different pulleys, trying to hoist ourselves up. I also got to fly a plane with a simple simulator.

Then we went to the electricity section where I put my hands on a globe: lightning strikes the heck out of you – not physically, obviously, but it does give you a bit of a fright.

The music section was my favourite. There were a number of plastic tubes with buttons next to them. Different buttons light up so that you strike at that particular tube and create a tune. One tune was Twinkle, Twinkle, which I happen to be studying for my next piano exam. So I plucked up courage, grabbed both hard-foam ‘beaters’ and “The started playing. I really enboys – and joyed it. It was such fun. that includes my At about 1.30pm we went husband – were to the activity centre where looking forward and Kyran and I had a scratch could not wait to coding session.

We still had time on our hands, step inside and so we made our way back outside, get going” racing around a small track on what looked like small rickshaws. I also took time to try and build a house which was very eco-friendly and self-sufficient. That is what our future holds.

Without knowing it was nearly 4pm when we took the exit and went back home. Kyran and myself could not stop talking about the experience and what we had bought.

Most importantly, however, we’re already trying to plan our next visit. I’m sure it will not be difficult to convince our parents to go again. Until next time, Esplora.

24 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

Matthew enjoyed the music section most (left). His father Dorian helped him piece together an artificial heart.

SCIENCE

Here is what Kyran Farrugia, 10, had to say about his experience It was the day after Halloween night and since it was a school holiday, my friend Matthew suggested we go to Esplora.

We met at his house for breakfast and afterwards, together with Joanne and Dorian, his parents, we left for Kalkara.

Both Matthew and myself were very excited and eager to see what this Esplora everyone was talking about, was all about. When we arrived and went up the elevator we saw a long line of people waiting at the ticket booth – we were not the only eager ones!

We got our tickets and went in. In the first room we saw a machine that pumps three different-sized bubbles into three different tubes and we had turns at making it work.

We proceeded to another room, where we saw a temperature hot-air balloon, an air cannon, pressure submarines and a machine that can shoot tennis balls into the air.

After that, we went to the music station. There we could use the music projector, pipes that are used like drums and a detector harp. We also found a giant piano-carpet that really plays music when stepped on!

The electricity room followed – it was my favourite room.

We got to experiment with a plasma globe, giant magnifying eyeballs and an electricity tube.

It was a beautiful warm day and we decided to play outside, enjoying the open-air facilities. After lunch, we attended a scratch coding session which was really fun.

When Matthew’s parents told us it was soon time to leave, we hadn’t even realised we had spent over five hours playing and experimenting. There is so much to see and do – if we could, we would have stayed there a bit more. It was an exciting adventure and we’ll definitely return on another day.

GAMES

Bringing the family together ressures on today’s parents may leave them little spare time to be active participants in their children’s pastimes. During the festive season, however, one can perhaps spend more quality time with the kids at home – and not just over Christmas lunch or in front of the TV set!

Traditional board games are an entertaining and relaxing way to engage with your offspring. All family members can take part and, while everyone’s attention is focused on the game, they can bond emotionally – despite the inevitable arguments about whose turn it is or who has ‘bagged’ the favourite playing piece!

Children, who are nowadays more used to electronic games, may love the novelty of it all and can develop new skills, while parents may rekindle their love for these games and reminisce about the good, old days.

Here’s a pick of some traditional and newer board games on the market.

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Clue (or Cluedo) Age: 8+ Players: 2/3 to 6 Promotes: deduction The game, which was designed by a successful musician named Anthony Pratt in World War II, has withstood the test of time. Its use of reasoning and logic skills and its murder and mystery theme have attracted generation after generation. ‘Cluedo’ is a combination of the word ‘clue’ and ludo, Latin for ‘play’.

In fact, players try to figure out the three main facts of a murder: the murderer, the location of the murder and the murder

weapon. There are various spin-offs, including a Harry Potter version, a Game of Thrones version and a Tim Burton’s A Nightmare Before Christmas edition.

Pandemic Age: 10+ Players: 2 to 5 Promotes: tactics, cooperation, logic Created in 2007, the bestselling Pandemic is a cooperative game where you all win or you all lose. Four diseases have broken out in the world and it is up to a team of specialists in various fields to find cures for these diseases before mankind is wiped out. Players must work together, playing to their characters’ strengths and planning their strategy of eradication before the diseases overwhelm the world with ever-increasing outbreaks.

Chess Age: 5+ Players: 2 Promotes: Strategy, thinking, focus It may not be the most modern game on the list – it originated in India before the 7th century! – but it is still played today by millions, both amateurs and professionals, worldwide. Encourage your children to quit the chess app on their tablet and try the more social and real option.

There are many chess clubs around the world and Malta has its own chess federation (www.chessmalta.org).

Scrabble Age: 8+ Players: 2 to 4 Promotes: Spelling, strategy, counting Scrabble is another favourite board game which was first published in 1938. It is basically a word game in which players score points by placing tiles, each bearing a single letter, on to a board game to form words. The game is so popular that there are about 4,000 Scrabble clubs around the world, including one in Malta (www.scrabblemalta.com).

Forbidden Island Age: 10+ Players: 2 to 4 Promotes: collaboration, strategy Developed in 2010, Forbidden Island sees a team of fearless adventurers on a do-or-die mission to capture four sacred treasures from the ruins of a 28 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

GAMES perilous paradise. Two to four players will have to work together and make some pulse-pounding maneouvres, as the island will sink beneath every step.

Latice Age: 5+ Players: 2 to 4 Promotes: cognitive, planning, interpersonal skills Latice is a new classic strategy board game – it was only published last year – where you match tiles by colour and shape. It has simple rules that combine into surprisingly deep strategies as you learn the game.

Monopoly Age: 8+ Players: 2 to 6/8 Promotes: Negotiation, resource management, strategy If there was ever a ‘classic’ board game, it has to be Monopoly. Originating in 1903 but first published in 1935, the game sees players buying or trading properties, developing their properties with houses and hotels, and collecting rent from their opponents, with the aim to drive them all into bankruptcy and leaving one monopolist in control of the entire economy. With pretty much every possible variation of the popular game, one can now play themed Monopoly, including Monopoly Junior, Adventure Time, Despicable Me and Frozen. There is also a Maltese edition.

Articulate Age: 12+ Players: 4 to 20+ Promotes: Focus, articulation, time management In this bestselling game, first launched in 1992, players describe words from different categories to their team as quickly as possible. The teams move round the board based on the number of words correctly guessed and occasional spinner bonuses. The objective of the game is to get to the end before the other team. A newer version, called Articulate Your Life, was released in 2010.

Wordsearch Junior Age: 4+ Players: 1 to 4 Promotes: Spelling, reading, pattern recognition Another novel game, Wordsearch Junior is a good introduction to word games. It helps children become comfortable with seeking patterns and gives new readers valuable practise at recognising letters and words. There are three different levels, with one for the youngest children where they just have to find rows of matching pictures.

Logo Age: 12+ Players: 2 to 6 Promotes: Observation skills How much do you know about the brands you see every day? From famous cars to food franchises, the game tests players’ knowledge about popular brands which have made it into pop culture. There is also another version of the game for younger children, called Logo. What Am I?, which omits the trivia but challenges the little participants to describe, guess and draw various familiar objects.

ARTS

IN THE SPOTLIGHT As the performing arts community gets ready for the first-ever Maltese Islands Festival early next month, Jo Caruana takes a look at how this kind of experience can help to boost a child’s confidence while also giving them their time to shine. s a nation we absolutely love ‘extracurricular activities’. From ballet and gymnastics to football and art classes, Maltese children are signed up to all sorts – and it’s proven that, by varying your child’s education in this manner, it can help make them more successful and motivated later in life.

However, it isn’t just attending these activities that can help to give children and young people a boost but the chance to actually use their skills further afield. With that in mind, the Maltese Islands Festival, which is part of this year’s Spazju Kreattiv programme, is giving arts students the chance to perform in front of both an international adjudicator and a public audience, while gaining valuable feedback that should motivate, drive and encourage them to strive further.

“The Maltese Islands Festival is the first of its kind in Malta, combining solo and group categories across the disciplines of music, drama, dance and music,” says festival manager Cathy Lawlor.

“The local event is a member of the consortium of British and International Federation of Festivals, and

A

four international adjudicators [one for each category] will be joining us, thus ensuring a fair and professional process.

Principles are taken very seriously. In fact, we even have to file a festival report at the end of it to ensure we are maintaining the high standards set by the UK board.”

Throughout the festival, medals will be awarded to the top performers who reach the international benchmark in their respective category. On top of this, each and every participant will receive a personal feedback form that will include assessment on everything from technique to body language on stage.

All this helps to ensure that the children (and adults – as the festival is open to grown-ups too in certain categories) have the best possible experience and gain something that will prove valuable to them later in life.

“Every performer should leave the festival feeling positive and supported – which is why we invite an open audience to join us,” continues Cathy, who also has many years’ experience as a teacher.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 31

ARTS “Beyond that, each applicant is encouraged to stay on after they have performed and to watch the other applicants in their category. This helps to establish peer-learning, which takes the focus off the awards and prizes that can be won, and places it firmly on the fact that those taking part can learn from one another,” she says.

It is this positive approach that has encouraged such large numbers to sign up. Two of them are nineyear-old Francesca Busuttil and 11-year-old Martina Galea Loffreda, both of whom attend Stagecoach Theatre Arts School (Malta) where they train in drama, singing and dance.

So what made them want to be a part of this?

“I love the performing arts,” says Martina, “and this festival will give me the chance to exhibit my talents in front of international adjudicators, as well as an audience. I am looking forward to performing solo pieces as well as group ones with my friends in our troupes.

“This is the first time I’m taking part in such a dynamic festival, as I usually compete in ones dedicated to singing. This time I have the opportunity to dance too, and form part of the Stagecoach choir. For my solos I will be singing in the musical theatre – which is my favourite – and pop categories. I really love the arts because they allow me to express myself and, most of all, entertain the audience. I am already hopeful that the festival will be organised again next year because I’d like to enter the music category too, and play a piano piece.”

Agreeing Francesca is also looking forward to her chance to perform.

“I love playing music and jumped at the chance to play in front of a crowd, and international judges,” she says, adding that on top of her Stagecoach classes she’s also been studying the piano for two years.

“I’ll be playing Dance of the Hours on the piano, which took me a few weeks to learn by heart. Now that I have, I am eager to play it at the festival and gain feedback; I hope it will make the audience as happy as it makes me.”

So now that all the applications are in and hundreds of

32 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

Martina Galea Loffreda

participants signed up, final preparations are being made to the festival itself.

“Events will be held over December 2, 3 and 4 at a number of venues within Spazju Kreattiv, and the public are invited to attend them all. In fact, we have day passes as well as festival passes, so that families can make a weekend of it and enjoy popping in and “I love out of the performplaying music ances that might inand jumped at the terest them. We hope chance to play in it will be a brilliantlyfront of a crowd, fun weekend for and international everyone – the participants and the audijudges” ence,” Cathy says.

The Maltese Islands Festival will take place at St James Cavalier in Valletta between Friday, December 2 and Sunday, December 4.

To find out more about the performance schedule, visit www.themalteseislandsfestival.com.

Francesca Busuttil. PHOTO: KEVIN FORMOSA

ARTS

What’s on for kids? plenty of Keen to develop your children’s love for the arts? Well, there are events this season to help them do exactly that. Here’s our pick.

Staccato. Clap, laugh and move around at Toi Toi 325. As part of the popular Toi Toi programme at the Manoel Theatre, Staccato is a fun-filled, 40-minute concert aimed at three-tofive-year-olds. It will be held on Sunday, December 4, at 9.45am, 11am and 12.15pm, and on Sunday, December 11 at 3.30pm, 4.45pm and 6pm.

Scrubbadub Suzie. Imagine a world of sea, stars and sailing boats. Scrubbadub Suzie interacts with her little friends in the audience through a musical, sensory and theatrical exploration. This is a fun and relatable experience for babies and young children aged two to four.

It will be held from December 14 to16 with daily performances at 10am and 11.15am.

Masha & the Bear. Everyone’s favourite little troublemaker is coming to Malta this December. Follow Masha and all her friends on her latest amazing adventure, The Happiness Chest,

in this live-action event. The shows are being held at the Hilton Grandmaster’s Suite on December 17 at 2pm, 4pm and 6pm, and on December 18 at 4pm and 6pm.

Puss in Boots. This year’s Manoel Theatre panto, by Masquerade, will tell the fairy tale of Puss in Boots.

Written by Malcolm Galea, it will run from December 23 to January 8, 2017, with a special Behind the Scenes backstage tour for children aged 6+ at 1.35pm on January 7 and 8 (ahead of the matinee performances at 3pm).

UN-Believe It. MADC returns to the MFCC for another spectacular panto written by and starring Alan Montanaro. It will run from December 22 to January 8, with matinee performances on weekends.

PROMO

Reading for fun Books in Maltese are getting more thematically diverse and aesthetically beautiful. But, above all, they are incredibly fun. Here is Merlin Publishers’ top 10 list for this Christmas.

Lupu Lupettu Jibża’ Minn Dellu (5+) Lupu Lupettu Jinvestiga l-Mużew

By Orianne Lallemand Translated to Maltese by Clare Azzopardi Illustrated by Eléonore Thuillier Lupu Lupettu is not your average storybook wolf. He is a bit of a scaredy-cat, he does not like raw meat and he particularly hates howling. He also hates walking, he is scared of the dark and lurking monsters. It is the reason why children in France – where he originates – love him.

With Clare Azzopardi’s translations, Maltese children fell equally in love with him.

For this Christmas, the actual Lupu Lupettu soft toy is available in a box set with two new books in the series.

Lupettin Iħobb Biss l-Għaġin (2+) Hemm x’Hemm fil-Ġnien Lupettin?

By Orianne Lallemand Translated to Maltese by Clare Azzopardi Illustrated by Eléonore Thuillier Lupettin is the younger self of Lupu Lupettu, the hugely popular children’s character who is always up to some mischief or other.

Parents love the books as much as children because the wolf stories always manage to somehow teach a lesson in the funniest ways possible. The series is ideal for toddlers – with easy to wipe pages, just in case there’s some tomato sauce accident.

Il-Qtates ta’ max-Xatt (5+)

By Clare Azzopardi Illustrated by Lisa Falzon Author Clare Azzopardi writes a tale of loss in an unconventional way with the stars of her story being cats in a public garden.

Il-Qtates ta’ max-Xatt has no fixed target age. It is ideal both for reading to children when these are still very young and eventually for reading by children themselves when they are slightly older. Apart from being an emotional story, perfect to nurture a love of reading, the play on words, alliterations, rhymes and rhythms makes it fun.

Fittixni (12+) Antoinette Borg Fittixni is narrated by two alternate voices. The first voice is that of Jack, a boy who comes across a photo of a blonde little girl at his grandmother’s house.

The second voice is that of Jessica Manderley, a young British woman who had drowned in 1937 during a storm at sea a few miles off the Maltese shore. She died clutching tightly to a box carrying her baby daughter.

With the help of his friends, Jack manages to unearth the incredible story of Jessica and her daughter and uncover secrets that had been buried for 70 years.

Irvin Vella: Il-Każ tas-Serqiet Strambi (9+)

By John A. Bonello Illustrated by Lisa Falzon Irvin Vella: Il-Każ tas-Serqiet Strambi is the sequel to Irvin Vella Il-Każ Manduca – the first detective in children’s fiction to hit the Maltese bookshelves. Written by John A. Bonello, the story is a whodunit full of hidden clues, action, suspense and a good dose of humour. Illustrator Lisa Falzon uses black and white incisive drawings to capture the investigative mood brilliantly.

Stejjer ma Jitwemmnux mill-Klassi ta’ Miss Ambrożja Pulis Kiftaranipenġini (8+)

By Audrey Friggieri Illustrated by José Luís Ocaña Picture three 10-year-old students: Odette who is forever eavesdropping conversations and repeating gossip; Massimo who parrots away anything that he is told and embellishes them with colour; and mischievous Owen who daydreams of becoming a top footballer.

The three of them are all Year Six students of Miss Ambrożja – the quirky, sparkly teacher who is capable of transporting the children to different realities to teach them life lessons.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 35

PROMO Imeldina u l-Imbarazz (3+)

By Sandra Hili Vassallo Illustrated by Beatrice Costamagna Little children and clutter go hand in hand and Imeldina u l-Imbarazz is a book about just that.

Written by Sandra Hili Vassallo, Imeldina u l-Imbarazz is a follow-up to Imeldina, published three years ago, in which the little girl enjoyed splashing around in her red boots.

Il-Kamra ta’ Jonas (5+)

by Noel Tanti Illustrated by Matt Stroud The spell-binding story by Noel Tanti is about a boy named Jonas whose father is absent from his life. But where is he? The book open doors for discussion not only between parents and children but also among adults who will read the book.

Qrempuċu (8+)

By Trevor Zahra Illustrated by Mark and Nicholas Caruana The tale of Qrempuċu, the little mouse who sets off on an adventure-packed journey in search of Cheese Town, has been republished. The new edition of the book includes

illustrations by brothers Mark and Nicholas Caruana who created the 3D feature film Qrempuċu for the big screen. The feature served as a preview to the actual Qrempuċu f’Belt il-Ġobon, a full-length, 3D movie which is in production stage and will be out in a few years’ time.

Teresa (9+)

By Deborah Abela Translated to Maltese by Leanne Ellul and Clare Azzopardi Bestselling Australian author Deborah Abela grew up listening to the story of how her father was born in a shelter during one of the heaviest bombing attacks on Malta in World War II. After the war, her seven-year-old father and his family left an impoverished Malta and made the long journey to Australia.

Inspired by her own family’s survival, Abela wrote Teresa, the fictional story of a young girl and her parents who, after the war set sail to Australia, leaving some of Teresa’s dearest behind in Malta.

This successful book has been translated by award-winning children’s authors Leanne Ellul and Clare Azzopardi.

SKILLS

The gift of

FRIENDSHIP Resolving conflicts with friends and family is not easy for adults, let alone children. But a new card game aims to help the younger ones acquire the skills necessary to handle and resolve any clashes. Luca Caruana has a chat with Julian and Joanna Sant Fournier, the creators of the Friendship Cards. riendship is important for children. Making friends, whether with peers, family members or other caregivers, is a vital part of growing up and can help a child develop emotionally and morally.

Studies show that friendships enable kids to learn more about themselves and develop their own identity. Such attributes as social competence, altruism, selfesteem and self-confidence have been positively correlated to making friends.

However, it is not always easy for children to manage their friendships and, just like adults, they can come into conflict with their peers, parents and teachers. And can children handle conflict?

Not really.

This is what the founders of the Relationships Are Forever Foundation, Julian and Joanna Sant Fournier, are trying to resolve with their Friendship Cards, a child-friendly version of their Couple Cards game.

“The greatest gift we can give our families is to be connected. This involves sharing our feelings and resolving conflicts that are part of everyday family life,” says Joanna.

“Building a strong relationship between parents and children is a lifelong journey, which we have to work at every day. It involves learning new skills to build better communication.

“Friendship Cards was developed with this vision. During several workshops we did on Couple Cards, we realised how children found it difficult sometimes to relate to peers, parents and teachers.

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Julian and Joanna Sant Fournier are the founders of the Relationships Are Forever Foundation.

“The greatest gift we can give our families is to be connected. This involves sharing our feelings and resolving conflicts that are part of everyday family life”

CHiLD NOVEMEBR 2016 39

SKILLS

“Once there was a child who picked the card ‘I am missing you’ and gave it to his father. On another instance, there was a PSCD teacher who pointed out to us how beneficial a concept like Couple Cards would be if it were adapted to children, and how it would help their relationship with parents and even teachers.

“Such episodes sparked off the idea, and after two years of research and development with a team of professionals including PSCD teachers, designers and artists who voluntarily dedicated their time, the Friendship Cards were launched.”

Each card contains suggestions that can help the child think, speak up and learn life skills.

The Friendship Cards game, which is also available in the Maltese language, is divided into four phases: Feelings, Bad Move, Good Move and Making Up. Each time a child processes a situation through the four stages, a relationship may grow deeper and the child learns important life lessons.

such as blaming others, making the argument even bigger and being passive or doing nothing.

“The cards will teach children not to escalate their bad feeling into bad moves which can have further negative consequences,” Joanna remarks. “The cards can teach siblings, for example, how to react to each other when certain negative feelings are expressed.”

The next stage, ‘Good Move’, involves a complete set of learning strategies to understand what might have gone wrong, work together and find a solution.

“Such cards encourage children to get to know themselves better, be more assertive – which helps children to take decisions and be more confident – and spend more time with others,” says Joanna.

The final ‘Making up’ stage closes the chapter.

“This stage teaches children to say ‘I am sorry’ and forgive each other, an essential skill for a long-lasting relationship.”

“To resolve a conflict, you first need to express your emotion.

This process is facilitated by the feelings cards which form the first stage of the Friendship Cards game,” Julian explains.

“One can express feelings such as loneliness, sadness and angriness. A child might find it difficult to express these feelings for a variety of reasons and the cards can thus facilitate the process. It is when such feelings are expressed that a conflict can be resolved.”

The cards, however, can be used in any situation, not just in times of conflict. Children might want to express their emotions with parents or teachers.

“We would like these cards to help children’s development, by helping them learn how to express and share their feelings – this is part of their emotional literacy. The set also gives the child the opportunity to create their own card, by drawing what they are feeling,” continues Julian.

The second phase of the cards game features behaviours which tend to escalate an argument. This phase is appropriately named ‘Bad Move’. The cards in this phase include concepts

Joanna and Julian have already led several workshops for schools, teachers, parents and children to explain the cards’ concept but hope to continue spreading their message. They wish to train more teachers and maybe even include the cards in school curricula.

“Our target from the very beginning has been to strengthen the relationship between parents and children,” says Julian. “We want to instil a new culture, a new mentality, from children’s early age, so that when they grow up, they would start using the cards’ concepts in society in general.

“Children will be the leaders of tomorrow, the parents of tomorrow, let’s all work together to give our children values, life skills and a strong character formation.”

The Friendship Cards can be acquired against a small donation during workshops organised by the Relationships Are Forever Foundation. To register and find out more about the Friendship Cards, visit www.friendshipcards.org or www.facebook.com/ friendshipcards.org.

CHiLD NOVEMEBR 2016 41

SKILLS

Users share their experience Amanda Bezzina, one of the members of the core team who worked on the Friendship Cards initiative, describes the cards as “an effective resource for all teachers to facilitate communication, empathy and conflict management skills in a classroom environment.

“Through these cards, children have the opportunity to observe and practise problem-solving skills by analysing the problem, the feelings attributed to it, the bad moves, the good moves and the making up. In this way, they can realise that a conflict is not solved aggressively or passively but assertively, with proper communication and empathy”.

Helen Buhagiar, a parent who attended the workshop with her son Anthony, also found the cards game to be a positive experience.

“The cards have shifted the pressure off me in the sense that I am usually telling my son what to do and what not to do, which can become quite stifling and can very often turn into a power struggle between us.

“The cards are such a child-friendly, clear, subtle, bright, factual, playful structured way of thinking that, with repetition, help develop the right thinking strategy in the child. The amazing thing is that the child feels in command as he leads himself forward, one card leading to the other, until he realises the strategy that he needs to adopt and the pitfalls he needs to avoid.”

Helen’s son, Anthony, found the cards very helpful when it came to resolving conflicts with friends.

“If I run into an argument or a problem like a fight at school with a friend, I go home, think about how I am feeling, bring out the card that matches my 42 CHiLD NOVEMEBR 2016

How the Friendship Cards work: • The first edition of Friendship Cards is focused on conflict resolution.

• Friendship cards help children to process the argument into simple stages: a. Feel comfortable to express how they feel, talking with each other and finding out what caused the argument; b. Realise that they may have said or done something wrong; c. Focus on taking positive steps and avoiding hurtful behaviour so that it is possible to make up and be good friends again.

• Each card helps the children to express an emotion and includes ‘Things to think and talk about’ to enable the child to discuss and understand the particular situation.

• Children will learn new life skills while having fun.

feelings best, read the backside to understand my feelings and then look for the card which shows me what is the bad move that must be avoided, and the other card which tells me the good move that should be carried forward in the situation. Finally, I choose a making up card to make peace with my friend”.

FOOD

Christmas DOWN Photos by Chris Sant Fournier

MEMORY LANE Gloria Mizzi has churned out many recipes over the years but perhaps her best ones are those she cooks for her family. She is adamant that one must prepare healthy food for children but a few exceptions at Christmas won’t hurt anyone. hristmas is round the corner and, before we know it, most of us will be running around like headless chickens in a vortex of buying presents, preparing the Christmas family lunch and decorating the house.

To complicate matters, children will be at home during school holidays demanding attention.

I’ve been through all this on countless Christmases. Each time I promise myself to be more organised and prepare well ahead. But honestly, deep down I enjoy the ‘stress’ and excitement of a hectic day and telling everyone who cares to listen how busy I am!

However, there should be, some degree of planning ahead so that things can run smoothly.

C

Over the years, I cooked plenty of food and sweets for my children and grandchildren, who are now old enough to have children of their own.

learned not to force-feed – because no matter how healthy the ingredients and how much I camouflaged them – such as mashing beetroot with cream

“Traditional food can be given a healthy twist, with much less of the following – fats, salt, sugar and starches – and more vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices” I have always been a strict disciplinarian as regards feeding the family. I stuck to the old adage “dak ħareg il-kunvent” and this was very rewarding: the children ate almost everything presented to them and never gorged on sweet things and fast food.

Good eating habits have to start at a young age. I must admit that sometimes I carried the above adage too far but I

cheese – if I forced it into my toddler’s mouth, it would be sprayed back on to my face!

Once I read an article about forcefeeding which said: “Imagine yourself held in the arms of a giant pushing food you don’t like down your throat. A lesson I learnt well, I must say!”

From then on, mealtimes became happy times. Fruit was always enjoyed CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 45

FOOD and, gradually, vegetables became ‘acceptable’. I loved and still use my passepurée (food mill) and tomato, grape and pomegranate juices are all-time favourites. Today, a juice extractor makes life easier and a blender makes healthy smoothies.

The accent nowadays is, indeed, on healthy food. There is also much more awareness on health conditions like diabetes, coeliac disease, lactose intolerance and other allergies.

Traditional food can be given a healthy twist, with much less of the following – fats, salt, sugar and starches – and more vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices (spicy food does not mean hot food) which are all beneficial, like legumes, cereals, quinoa, spelt and wholemeal.

With a little imagination, all these ingredients can be incorporated in children’s favourite dishes like burgers made with turkey, chicken or fish; pizza with vegetables and mozzarella topping; savoury muffins; muffins with fruit; chips made from sweet potatoes drizzled with oil and roasted; kebabs with cherry tomatoes (children love them) and cubed avocado and cheese; cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon and cheese grissini, plus a wide choice of oat biscuits and cereal bars.

Come Christmas, however, one can let them indulge in some treats, such as festive biscuits shaped like angels; Christmas trees and stars coated in dark chocolate and decorated with silver balls and icing; and last, but not least, an oldtime favourite, gingerbread men.

Gloria Mizzi’s grandchildren Luana (left), Stella and Anthony a few Christmases ago.

Getting children involved with the above-mentioned goodies can be great fun, even just by watching the making of the Christmas cake, pudding and mince pies. Weighing and mixing the ingredients may encourage children to be more adventurous in tasting new ingredients; they might even come up with some suggestions!

This, of course, requires a great amount of patience but it will give rewards. My own reward is a wall plaque hanging in 46 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

my kitchen which reads: “Grandma’s kitchen, where memories are made and grandkids are spoilt” given to me by my grand-daughter Stella, who I’m proud to say is following in my footsteps in cooking wholesome food!

I must add that all my grandchildren – Anthony, Stella, Luana, James and Kimi Lee – are all interested in food preparation and appreciate healthy food.

It actually takes very little to make children food conscious; the secret is to start them young and keep away from food they absolutely dislike, as eventually their tastes change as they grow older.

Going back to preparing Christmas sweets for children, let them help decorating with chocolate, silver balls and icing – very messy but fun.

One last thing, if the family gathering for the Christmas lunch is big, and space is restricted, set a table for the smaller ones and make it special with a centrepiece of gingerbread men which they helped decorate.

FOOD

Healthy sausage rolls These sausage rolls are ideal to disguise vegetables!

Makes 32 rolls 400g puff pastry; 500g chicken mince; 2 eggs; 2 tbsps wholegrain breadcrumbs; 500g mixed vegetables – choose from onions, garlic, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, parsley, egg yolk and 1 tbsp milk for glazing; sunflower or sesame seeds for garnishing Chop the vegetables finely or use a processor. In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Roll out the pastry thinly and cut into four strips 10x40cm.

Spread the filling along the pastry, brush edges with egg wash and fold over to enclose the filling.

Cut each roll into eight slices. Score the top with a sharp knife (at this stage the rolls can be frozen). Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with seeds. Place on lined baking trays and bake in a preheated hot oven for 20 minutes or until nicely golden.

Gingerbread men Makes 16 2 cups plain flour; ¼ cup self-raising flour; 125g unsalted butter; ¹⁄3 cup soft, dark, brown sugar; ¼ cup golden syrup; 1 egg lightly beaten; 1 tbsp ground ginger; 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda

Icing 1 egg white; ½ tsp lemon juice; 1½ cups icing sugar Whisk the butter, sugar and syrup in a bowl until light and creamy.

Add the egg gradually, beating all the time, then add the sifted dry ingredients. Mix with a knife until just combined, turn on to a floured surface and knead for one to two minutes until smooth. Line a large chopping board with baking

paper and roll out the dough on the board between two sheets of baking paper. Refrigerate for 15 minutes so that the dough is firm to cut out into 13cm gingerbread men with a cutter or make a cardboard template. Press the remaining dough together, re-roll and cut out shapes again. Place biscuits on a lined tray and bake in a preheated moderate oven until lightly browned. Cool on trays.

To make the icing: Place the egg whites in a bowl and whisk until foamy. Add lemon juice and icing sugar gradually and whisk until smooth and quite stiff. You might need to add more icing sugar. Spoon into an icing bag, snip the tip off and decorate.

This is where the children can help and have fun.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 47

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

SHOPWINDOW Preventing and treating nappy rash Nappy rash is a worry for all parents, but whether you want to prevent or treat it, Metanium has a product for you. For prevention, Metanium Everyday range, available in ointment or easy spray lotion, can be used at every nappy change, is easy to spread and is fragrance and lanolin free. For treatment, use Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment* – the yellow one – which rubs easily into the skin, relives irritation and redness and a small amount goes a long way! *This product is a medical product available OTC. Always read the leaflet. Metanium products are exclusive distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

HiPP Organic – now in Malta!

HiPP uses organic ingredients to create wholesome and nourishing baby foods. Its delicious range provides baby foods bursting with flavours and natural goodness, suitable for every stage of your baby’s development and all meal times. The range is made up of formula milks fortified with important prebiotics and omegas and available in stage 1, stage 2, stage 3, Hungry Infant Formula and Good Night Formula. The range also includes baby cereals, savoury and dessert jars and pouches, fruit pots and tray meals, including lasagne, numbered and animal-shaped pasta. HiPP Organic is available from all leading supermarkets and pharmacies. It is exclusively distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

Effective relief from bloating Bloateze is very effective at relieving trapped wind (gas) and bloating. It is unique and different to other treatments as it contains two active ingredients in one tablet: carbon (charcoal) and simethicone. These ingredients work together to eliminate gas and provide quick relief from that uncomfortable feeling of bloating. Bloateze works very quickly and results can be felt within 15 minutes. Take two tablets of Bloateze before your main meals or as needed. Bloateze is available, over-the-counter, from all leading pharmacies. It is exclusively distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

Natural and organic skincare range Mommy Care specialises in the development and production of natural and safe skin care products for expecting mothers, babies and children. Its line of maternity products can be used to prevent stretch marks and help the body retain its shape after pregnancy. The baby and kids products are especially suitable for the most delicate and sensitive skin. Mommycare never uses parabens, petroleum-based ingredients, SLS or any other controversial ingredient and it is its mission to keep developing high-quality, safe skin care products that support mothers who are looking to make healthy lifestyle choices for themselves and their children. For more information and samples, contact Mommy Care’s exclusive distributors, Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, tel: 2144 6205/6.

The purest baby wipes A baby’s skin is very delicate and should be cleaned with only the gentlest and purest elements possible. WaterWipes are the only wipe made using just two ingredients: water, specially purified and softened, and a tiny drop of grapefruit seed extract. That’s why 97 per cent of midwives believe WaterWipes are suitable for use on the skin of newborn babies, and why WaterWipes are the only baby wipe to be approved by AllergyUK and the National Eczema Association of America. WaterWipes are chemical-free and suitable from birth. They are available from all leading pharmacies, baby shops and supermarkets. WaterWipes are exclusively distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel: 2134 3270.

Bursting with flavour Smooth, desert and savoury purees from HiPP Organic have been voted the best organic baby food range in the UK. This range has a smooth, thick texture and is full of big tastes in a small pouch – a perfect portion for little ones. The products are suitable for babies from four months onwards.HiPP Organic is available from all leading supermarkets and pharmacies. It is exclusively distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

48 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016

Colourful, interactive toys Munchkin offers children a wide range of colourful, interactive toys that make bath time fun and enjoyable. From a Bath Fun Bubble Blower, Undersea Explorer, Bath Tea and Cupcake Sets and a large selection of bath toys, Munchkin is sure to keep your child entertained. With their bright and vibrant colours, Munchkin toys are designed to help engage sensory skills as well as encourage your child to learn to develop play patterns and interactive play. Munchkin also offers a wide range of feeding bottles, spill proof cups, training cups, flip straw cups, dining sets, door bouncers, safety car mirrors, backpacks and much more. Munchkin toys are found in leading supermarket, pharmacies and baby shops. They are exclusively distributed

by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, tel: 2144 6205/6.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES Natural relief from colds Reducing the appearance of stretch marks Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Cream and Lotion for Stretch Marks helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks with a special combination of cocoa butter, vitamin E, collagen and elastin. It lubricates the skin to help it retain its natural elasticity and moisture.

This non-greasy cream relieves the dryness associated with stretched skin due to pregnancy and smoothes stretch marks due to weight loss. For trade enquires, contact Pemix Distributors Ltd on 2143 7926 or visit www.parentchildclub.com.

Nutritious growing-up milk Young toddlers have many interests and their appetite may also fluctuate accordingly. Several surveys conducted in Europe have also demonstrated that the nutritional status of many toddlers is less than satisfactory. In the short term, nutrient deficiencies can result in impaired growth and sub-optimal cognitive development affecting brain development and influencing learning ability and behaviour patterns later in life. There is increasing scientific evidence to suggest that nutrition during the early formative years has a significant influence on the level of diseaserisk in adult life. These nutritional shortcomings in a young child’s diet can be corrected by giving Bebelac 3, a nutritionally-balanced growing-up milk.

Bebelac 3 helps to provide toddlers with the goodness they need at this important stage of development. Exclusively available in all pharmacies in Malta and Gozo. For trade enquires, contact Pemix Distributors Ltd on 2143 7926 or visit www.parentchildclub.com.

The colds and flu season is upon us. Many know of the benefits of honey and lemon, which are found in Uniflu Honey and Lemon Syrup. Honey is a natural anti-viral and antibacterial agent which also soothes sore throats and dry coughs and helps one sleep better at night. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and also serves as a natural remedy for runny, blocked noses and as an anti-bacterial agent.

The syrup also contains glycerine which serves to relieve coughs and dry, tickly throats. This syrup is ideal for adults and children aged over one and is great in taste. It is also ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The product is exclusively distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

Relieving a blocked nose and sinusitis Blocked, stuffy noses and sinus congestion are very common at this time of year.

Tonimer Hypertonic & Tonimer Baby Hypertonic are sterile saline sprays which work by fluidifying thickened nasal secretions. The Tonimer range can be used by children of all ages. The Tonimer Baby range is even safe in newborns. Tonimer can be used as many times a day as required with no side effects and rebound congestion. Tonimer is found in all leading pharmacies. It is exclusive distributed by Cherubino Ltd, tel. 2134 3270.

Naturally delicious food NaturNes baby food is a new generation of baby foods delivering better nutrition and taste through unique steam cooking that helps preserve nutrients and flavour. NaturNes baby food uses 100 per cent natural ingredients. Its recipe range of NaturNes takes into account the correct balance of macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and fats); energy density; quality of essential fatty acids; correct introduction of potential allergenic ingredients and avoidance of harmful ingredients to a baby’s still fragile system. Products are totally free from added salt, sugar and modified starches.

The result is a nutritious, balanced and naturally delicious product.

Anti-colic self-sterilising bottles MAM anti-colic self-sterling bottles have a self-sterilising feature: they only need three minutes in the microwave and there is no need for a steriliser. It is proven that they can help reduce colic by 80 per cent due to the ventilation holes in the base of the bottle which ensure that babies do not swallow any air. These bottles provide an easy switch between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.

Market research confirms that 94 per cent of babies accept the MAM Silk Teat. These bottles are also suitable for newborns and are BPA free. For more information, visit the MAM Malta page on Facebook.

MAM is exclusively distributed by BART Entreprises Ltd, tel. 2144 7340; e-mail: info@mammalta.com.

Engaging the baby’s senses A baby’s first years of life are filled with exploration as they begin to learn about themselves and the world in which they live. Playgro understands the importance of play in this developmental journey and creates fun, innovative toys that engage baby’s senses, stimulate their imagination and encourage movement and play.

Younger babies can enjoy the bright colours and patterns, and listen intently to shaking, squeaking and rattling sounds. Older babies begin to explore the world with eyes, hands, feet and mouths. The Playgro Age for Stage guide helps parents select the most age appropriate products for their little one. The guide can be found on all Playgro packaging, making it easy for parents to find a product that best suits their baby’s stage of development.

Playgro Developmental Toys are exclusively distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd, tel. 2144 6205/6.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2016 49

PRodUCTS & SERViCES

shopwindow perfect lunchbox snacks A new range of tasty and healthy snacks for toddlers is now available. Made with highquality organic fruit and vegetables, Googly Fruit products do not contain added sugars, preservatives, artificial flavourings and or colorants. it is ideal for tots on the go, with choices of squeezy fruit snacks in pouches, crunchy fruit bites and crispy puffs and biscuits. Googly Fruit is available from leading outlets in Malta and Gozo. For more information, contact Vivian Corporation on 2258 8600.

Tidings of comfort and joy at Valletta Waterfront As from december 3, the Valletta waterfront will take on a Christmas Village feel with a mix of décor, music, food and activities related to this magical time.

A variety of free activities are planned underneath the 35foot Christmas tree and along the whole promenade, such as Christmas bands, choirs, cribs, stalls and more. Santa can be found in his workshop and, together with his helpers, will be available for photo opportunities.

As throughout the rest of the year, on weekends and public holidays, there will be free children’s entertainment. Little guests can enjoy balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-ins, meet and greets with favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy castles and more. Season’s specials are planned with a baubles’ balancing display, a giant gift Tetris, a light-up Rodolph’s nose challenge and a fun candy cane-blowing machine. As regards the new Year celebrations, entertainment for old and young will be provided with live bands and roaming children’s animation. At the stroke of midnight, there will be an aerial fireworks display coupled with confetti on the waterfront promenade.

For more information, visit www.vallettawaterfront.com/christmas.

The ideal bedroom for your child Your children will spend a considerable amount of time in their bedroom.

Therefore, it is vital to create a comfortable environment, in which your child can play, relax and even work. when planning a new bedroom, it is essential to keep in mind that children grow rapidly. The three key ingredients are storage, study space and a play/chill area. The Mundo Joven range offers various solutions on how to utilise and maximise the space available, using furniture such as corner wardrobes; bridge storage unit; under bed storage and shelving units. one will also find a variety of different desks to suit all spaces. A play zone for young children, or a chilling area for the older teens, can be created by placing a small armchair in the room and a small unit for a TV/monitor and game console, creating a small living area for your child to enjoy alone or even with friends. in confined spaces, one can also use the divan bed as a seating area.

Since every child is different, it is possible to completely personalise your room by using the wide range of wood and solid colours Mundo Joven has to offer.Finally, finishing off the room with suitable flooring will give the room colour, character and a clean surface. This will complete the room, thus creating a truly practical yet aesthetically pleasing area. Quick-Step flooring offers a full range of laminate or vinyl floors that will suit every room for a lifetime of enjoyment. Rimobel and Quick-step products are available from: R Living, Mrieħel bypass, Qormi, tel: 21499 699. Visit quick-step.com.mt and rimobel.com for more information.

50 CHiLd noVEMBER 2016

securing dry nights drynites Bed Mats with ‘Stick and Stay Put’ are designed for ultimate undercover confidence. Highly absorbent with waterproof backing, the new peel off adhesive back sheet secures the Bed Mat to a mattress, keeping it in place for great night-long protection. drynites Bed Mats are for children who sometimes wet the bed or simply for extra protection. drynites Bed Mats offer the perfect solution for a comfortable night’s sleep.

overnight protection Up to one in four children wet the bed. Most get dry in their own time but, in the meantime, drynites can help them through the phase. They provide unbeatable overnight protection for a good night’s sleep.

pampers and Unicef together against newborn tetanus Since 2006, Pampers’ 1 pack = 1 vaccine campaign* has helped eliminate newborn tetanus in 17 countries with a life-saving vaccine reaching a mother and her baby every second throughout developing countries. Unicef oversees that the vaccines are delivered to remote areas where access to health services and, specifically, delivery care, represents a huge logistical and financial challenge. Tetanus is contracted by newborn babies through contamination of their umbilical stump with Tetanus spores following birth. This may happen when an unsterile instrument is used to cut the cord or because in some developing countries women often give birth at home in unsanitary conditions – tetanus spores can pass through the cut umbilical cord and infect both mother and baby.

The good news is that this tragic disease is preventable with a series of low-cost vaccines.Together with your help, our 1 pack = 1 vaccine* campaign can help eliminate newborn tetanus everywhere. when you buy Pampers, you would be donating a life-saving vaccine. *For each Pampers pack with the Unicef logo purchased, Procter & Gamble supports the Un organisation in the fight against newborn tetanus with 5.6p – the equivalent of one tetanus vaccine. Unicef does not endorse any brand or product. For more information, visit www.pampers.co.uk or www.unicef.org.

Fortified milk for healthy growth Growing children need lots of energy. They need vitamins, minerals and proteins to stay strong and healthy. SMA Progress Kids is a fortified milk specifically designed for children aged one to four years. At this age most toddlers would have established an eating pattern and are able to eat most family foods. Growing up, milk should be given to supplement their diet. one to two beakers of 200mL each are enough to provide your little ones with all the necessary daily nutrients and vitamins to help support normal growth and development of bones. For more information and support, contact Vivian Corporation on 2258 8600 and ask for the sMA Nutrition Team.