Child (November 2017)

The magazine for parents

CHiLD ISSUE 57, November 2017

PROMOTING SCIENCE PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL

THE RIGHT NUTRIENTS Plus: footwear tips, recipes, treating acne

CELEBRATING CHRISTMAS

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CHiLD ISSUE 57 NOVEMBER 25, 2017

Contents

A meaningful Christmas

Features 6 Education: Promoting STEM subjects 12 Religion: The true meaning of Christmas 14 Arts: Malta’s first ever performing arts school 20 Nutrition: A varied and balanced diet 35 Recipes: Swiss Christmas treats 40 Footcare: Ensuring the right fit 43 Teenagers: Dealing with acne 46 Events: Behind the scenes of ŻiguŻajg

Regulars 30 Top Tips: Helping children be more grateful 48 Shop Window: The best of products and services

Correspondence to the editor may be sent to: The Executive Editor, Child Magazine, Times of Malta, Triq l-Intornjatur, Mrieħel, BKR 3000, or send an e-mail to stephanie.fsadni@timesofmalta.com Executive Editor Stephanie Fsadni Publisher Allied Newspapers Limited Printing Progress Press Limited Production Allied Newspapers Limited Contributors Sandy Calleja Portelli, Coryse Borg, Maria Gatt, Stephen Mizzi, Sharon Pulis. Design Krista Bugeja Advertising Sales Amanda Gauci (tel: 2276 4332; e-mail: amanda.gauci@timesofmalta.com).

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

All rights reserved. © 2017 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publishers is prohibited.

4 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

As we start putting up Christmas decorations (some probably already have!), does it occur to us what this festive season is really about? Or do we get too overwhelmed with all things material and all the merrymaking? Most importantly, do we teach our children the true meaning of Christmas?

This edition of Child gives suggestions on how we can celebrate a more religious Christmas rather than a strictly secular one. Children might learn at school or Catechism classes about the story of baby Jesus but it’s good to reinforce the message at home. Simply including a Nativity scene in our home decor or playing classic religious Christmas songs would be a good start.

Christmas is also an ideal time to teach the young ones some life lessons. They might become too self-centred and focused on the presents they will be getting at this time of year. So it would be appropriate to teach them that Christmas is not only about receiving gifts but also about giving. Helping other children who are in need might make them appreciate more what they have and instil in them the concept of generosity and caring for others.

This issue is, however, not only about Christmas. Sandy Calleja Portelli takes a look at the initiatives taken up by primary and secondary schools to promote STEM subjects which are increasingly in demand in modern industries.

Malta’s first performing arts school opened its doors in September. Students share their dreams and first experiences at the Malta Visual and Performing Arts School where they can focus on an art form of their choice while continuing with their secondary education.

Nutritionist Maria Gatt discusses the importance of eating a varied and balanced diet from a young age while podiatrist Stephen Mizzi gives parents tips on what they should do and look out for when buying footwear for children.

We also tackle acne, which is of concern to many teenagers.

It is not just about aesthetics as the problem goes much deeper than that… it can affect one on various levels, especially morally and socially.

Currently, the seventh edition of the ŻiguŻajg festival is on.

Child goes behind the scenes to see how this arts festival tackles complex themes in a fun and engaging way, inspiring children to be more creative.

Back to the Christmas theme, Sharon Pulis gives recipes for some alternative treats – ones she learnt to make in Switzerland, where she has settled with her family.

I hope this edition of Child gives you some food for thought and you enjoy leafing through it. I wish you and your families a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year. We’ll catch up in 2018.

EDUCATION

Plugging the hole in Malta’s STEM skills gap Modern industries increasingly need expertise in scientific fields but are finding it difficult to recruit a qualified workforce. In view of this, Sandy Calleja Portelli looks into how science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects are being promoted in primary and secondary schools in a bid to bridge this gap. e are currently experiencing a significant shortage of staff skilled in a number of industries, especially those in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). ‘We’ in this instance includes fellow members of the European Union. The shortage is becoming so acute that the EU has included measures to gap this bridge in its 2020 growth strategy.

Malta is not unaffected by this phenomenon. While the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training (Cedefop) has estimated that by 2025 approximately 26 per cent of all jobs will be in high level occupations in science, engineering healthcare, business and teaching, The Malta Business Bureau has once again expressed concern at the fact that finding people with the right skills is proving quite difficult in some sections.

In an effort to encourage more youngsters to take up science subjects at school, a team working within the Ministry for Education and Employment’s Directorate for Learning and Assessment Programmes has been quietly working to promote STEM subjects in schools, especially in the last five years.

Assistant director Desiree Bugeja Scicluna and her team of education officers (EOs) have launched a number of initiatives that introduce students to science subjects through activities away from the traditional classroom setting.

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6 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

“Our scope is to engage, stimulate and motivate students as we encourage more children to pursue their studies in the sciences with the goal of taking up STEM careers, so it’s a continuum that starts as early as can be in primary, secondary and post-secondary and linking to the world of work,” Ms Bugeja Scicluna says.

“The need for science popularisation is not just a local phenomenon and is felt across Europe. In the past, sciences were perceived as offering very limited career prospects – doctor, pharmacist, nurse or vet – but in reality there are so many more career options. The sciences have also gained a reputation for being complex and time-consuming

subjects to study compared to other subjects perceived as being ‘easier options’ but everything we do in life is somehow related to science and we’ve embarked on a process to highlight that link for our students.”

The Junior Science Clubs were launched three years ago in collaboration with local councils. These afterschool clubs, which run for a scholastic year, are open to all students in Year 3 (aged seven) to Year 6 (aged 11) regardless of which school they attend. Since all participants of a science club work together in one classroom, the children are also given the opportunity to work with children of different ages and from different schools and localities.

EDUCATION

Primary schools are invited to nominate the top mathematics performers to participate in an afterschool maths competition at the High5 club.

“Participants were able “We round the “The need to engage in researchyear off by setting for the based activities such as the children an popularisation of designing and building open-ended projscience is not just a aluminium foil boats and ect in which they local phenomenon seeing how far they design their own and is felt across could travel in water and question, investiEurope” building spaghetti marshgate it and present it mallow towers. The children to the class. These projreally enjoyed these activities ects are then exhibited to which, in addition to giving them pracparents during the final session tical, hands-on experience, also included of the year.” a great deal of problem solving, critical This year the science clubs are runthinking and decision-making skills as ning in Pembroke and Victoria and the children were encouraged to come up team is hoping that more councils will with their own solutions to meeting the express a willingness to host similar challenges they were set,” says Isabelle clubs as from next year. They are also Zerafa, EO for Primary Science. extending the application deadline for

any students who wish to join the science club this year (application forms can be obtained from the local councils of Pembroke and Victoria).

X’hemM – a play on the Maltese words xjenza (science) and matematika (maths) – is another initiative aimed at primary school students. The team of education officers collaborate to devise a series of workshops which incorporate maths and science for a field trip in which all schools are invited to participate.

The event is so popular that participation is often a case of the early school nabbing the workshop as places fill up rapidly. Each edition of X’hemM runs for a week, attracting CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 7

EDUCATION around 250 students each day, totalling to approximately 1,200 students from a range of State and non-State schools.

The sheer popularity of the event is not the only interesting fact about it as Melanie Casha Sammut, EO for Primary Mathematics, explains: “X’hemM is a series of workshops organised in collaboration with the local council of the locality hosting the event. We’ve organised X’hemM in Mellieħa, St Elmo, Vittoriosa and Mġarr among other places, giving participants the opportunity to use maths and science in context and discovering how relevant these subjects are to daily life.

“We set tasks which are specific to the location so that, for example, when we organised X’hemM in Mġarr, the activities were all connected to the village. We took children to the fields to measure the PH levels of soil and we calculated the height of the church.”

The team is already busy planning the next edition of X’hemM, so if you happen to see an unusual amount of schoolchildren in Ta’ Qali (possibly) some time next March, you will have probably stumbled on X’hemM 2018.

Keen to connect sciences to ‘normal’ life and other subjects, the team organises one-off events connected to, or inspired by, other events. Oli Maths combined maths and PE related to the Olympic Games while the anniversary

8 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

Primary school students taking part in X’hemM workshops, which incorporate maths and science, outside school premises.

of the Great Siege was the perfect opportunity to morph social studies, maths and science into the Besieged event.

One of the happy consequences of these initiatives is, as Ms Scicluna Bugeja says, the fact that class teachers often go on to adopt some of the teaching methods used in the events.

While it may not be feasible to regularly take classes on field trips, students can enjoy putting their maths and science into practice in the vicinity of, or even within, their own school.

“We also work quite a lot to target the gifted students; regretfully there has been some neglect in this area as schools focus more on helping strug-

gling students for inclusive purposes.

However, an inclusive pedagogy takes into account all the students and gifted students are part of that spectrum. We have embarked on initiatives to bring STEM subjects to these students at both the primary and secondary school level,” says Ms Bugeja Scicluna as she introduces the High5 club coordinated

by Ms Casha Sammut.

Primary schools are invited to nominate the top mathematics performers to participate in this after-school maths competition which kicks off with a qualifying test to ascertain who will go through to the next round. Once they have made it to round two, the students are set open-ended problems they sometimes approach in ways the teachers themselves wouldn’t have thought of before. In addition to challenging these children intellectually, High5 gives them a safe space in which they can try something and possibly fail at it.

“Although this is a competition with a winning team and winning students, the entire experience is so enriching that winning becomes a secondary aim for the children. Crucially, our contact with the children doesn’t end with the competition as we continue to follow their progress to make sure they continue to progress.”

Towards the end of Year 8 (formerly Form 2), State school students choose the three ‘option’ subjects they will

EDUCATION be studying up to Year 11 (Form 5) and the team offers two main initiatives at this crucial stage.

“The Science Safari is a national science treasure hunt that has been held on a Saturday morning for the last four years. Schools can nominate as many teams of three as they wish and the event attracts around 300 students each year,” explains Mario Muscat, EO for Integrated Science. “We find that students have a wonderful time looking for clues in the outdoors as they scramble around trying to be the first team to solve the clues. We’re always grateful to the teachers and parents who come along to support the participants and usually organise something like a guided walk for them to enjoy while they wait.”

The Teen Science Café is a rather more sedate, though no less interesting affair, which is also aimed at students in Year 8.

“We wanted to find a way to promote the careers that are open to students of science, so we have started inviting professionals whose career is not based within the traditional scientific career path of medicine but forensic scientists, bomb disposal experts, transportation professionals, etc. These professionals volunteer to chat to students about their work in a very informal setting and students become very enthused about what the guests have to tell them. Depending on the school, students can meet with at least nine professionals from different fields

Girls taking part in a X'hemM activity.

across the scholastic year,” says Ms Bugeja Scicluna.

“This year, four schools are going to set up a video link to CERN, giving students a virtual tour of the laboratory there. Since we introduced these sessions, schools have reported a steep increase in the number of students taking science subjects which had previously fallen out of favour.”

Penelope Fitzgerald, EO for Biology, adds: “As is the case in primary schools, we are also keen to target gifted students in secondary schools and organise a number of olympiads in maths, robotics and science. The Malta Junior Science Olympiad is especially popular with the Year 11 students nominated to participate. Each year the competition

is based on a theme and participants have to solve three problem tasks connected to biology, physics and chemistry. They need to engage in a scientific thought process to decide which apparatus they will need for their specific investigation and the top three teams are awarded prizes.”

Last year, the Go For Research Internship Programme in collaboration with the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Malta was also launched.

“Members of the top three teams were given the opportunity to work with university researchers in a number of areas and we are delighted that this year we will be extending this opportunity to the top seven teams,” enthuses Ms Bugeja Scicluna.

Competition Pemix Distributors Limited is giving readers the chance to win €50 worth of Babylino Sensitive products by answering the following question:

How can baby skin rashes be prevented?

Answers, including your name, surname, telephone number and e-mail address, are to be sent to Amanda Gauci on amanda.gauci@timesofmalta.com, until the end of December 2017. The winner will be announced in the next issue of Child, out in March.

The winner of the last issue is Niki Cachia.

Terms and conditions: The voucher is valid for six months. It can be redeemed on Babylino Sensitive products only (whole available range). Products will be given at consumer prices.

10 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

Christmas

RELIGION

Keeping Christ in

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s Christmas approaches, it’s easy for children to get overwhelmed with all things material, ignoring the spiritual meaning of the season. With endless television commercials and shiny store displays featuring new and exciting toys, shows and stories focused on Santa and his elves, and parties that are all about Christmas presents instead of Christ’s presence, one may feel it’s difficult to show children the true meaning of Christmas. But take heart, there are several things you can do to foster the true spirit of Christmas.

ATTEND CHURCH SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES Attend religious services and programmes that celebrate the season. Several activities are held in parishes across in Malta and Gozo in the run-up to Christmas, including innumberable choral concerts. Various crib exhibitions and Nativity plays are also set up around the islands.

INCLUDE A NATIVITY SCENE IN YOUR HOME DECOR Children learn at home first and you can greatly influence them by including a Nativity scene in your holiday decor. Whether you choose a small Nativity scene that was handed down to you by your grandmother, or a large outdoor display that lights up and makes a real statement, your children will enjoy placing the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the Wise Men in their proper places and positioning the animals as well. Tell your children about the part each person played in the birth of Jesus.

TEACH RELIGIOUS SONGS Instead of simply singing secular holiday songs, include religious hymns in your repertoire. If your children don’t know them, buy a CD of inspirational Christmas music. Classics like Silent Night, Away in a Manger and The Little Drummer Boy are easy songs for children to learn and sing as a fun family activity.

12 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

RELIGION

GIVE TO THOSE IN NEED Let your children know that there are people in the world who do not have a lot during the Christmas season. Take an opportunity to encourage their giving spirits by clearing their closets of winter coats they’ve outgrown and donating them to a local charity. Let them shop for presents they can give to a charity that donates them to needy families, and tell them how happy the items they have chosen will make children who might not otherwise receive presents.

CREATE A SPECIAL STOCKING FOR JESUS To emphasise the point that Jesus truly is a part of your family, create a special stocking just for Him. Put His name on it with craft paint or glitter glue. Have your children fill it with handwritten notes and homemade cards to Jesus to let Him know how much they love Him. Include small presents that they think Jesus might like. Small religious statues, candy, fruit, holy cards, religious medals and other items are some of the objects from which to choose.

The time to emphasise the true meaning of Christmas is while your children are young. By incorporating fun and meaningful traditions early on, you’ll set the tone for a lifetime of celebrating a religious Christmas instead of a strictly secular one and create traditions that your children could pass on to their own families one day.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 13

ARTS

Lea Ellul Sullivan

14 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

ARTS

Staging an

education

Malta's very own performing arts school welcomed its first intake of 45 students in September. Child speaks to the head of the Malta Visual and Performing Arts School, as well as to some of the students, to discuss the school’s vision – that of creating an extremely effective secondary school that is highly regarded for its academic excellence and cultural distinction.

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leven-year-old Lea Ellul Sullivan has always dreamt of becoming a professional dancer and join a dance company abroad. At the Malta Visual and Performing Arts School, she gets to pursue her passion, while also studying other forms of arts as well as the ‘usual’ academic subjects.

Leonel Mifsud, also 11 years old, realised he wanted to pursue a career in drama when he was about eight years old. When he leaves the MVPA, he would like to be a doctor and an actor.

Music student Riona Degiorgio’s chosen instrument is the piano. She says she was only five years old when she realised that she wanted to pursue a career in music. Attending this school is a dream come true for her.

Fellow student Holly Newling Ward is taking media studies and says that Disney animation and J.K. Rowling are her inspirations. When she grows older, she sees herself writing fiction, novels, animated stories and nonfiction books.

And art student Leah Attard decided she wanted a career in the performing arts at the age of seven. Her mother is her inspiration as she is creative and artistic.

Lea, Leonel, Riona, Holly and Leah were selected to become students at the MVPA after an audition in their chosen art form as well as an interview which carried a weighting of 60 per cent and 10 per cent respectively.

Benchmark exams carry the final 30 per cent weighting in order to place the students in an order of merit.

“Students who are in Year 6 can apply to enter the school at Year 7 [Form 1] level,” explains head of school Corinne Cilia. “Students from State, independent or Church schools can apply. The first 10 students are then selected for art, dance, music and drama and the first eight students are selected for media studies.”

The Malta Visual & Performing Arts School is the first State school of its nature and, thus, parents do not pay for tuition.

Ms Cilia’s road to becoming the head of a performing arts school was not a conventional one. After graduating, and then working, as a pharmacist, she decided to read for a post-graduate certificate in education (PGCE) which enabled her to step into an educator’s role, teaching biology and integrated science in a girls’ secondary school.

As an educator, she also realised that she had a very creative aptitude in her pedagogy, as well as a creative flair.

She also became fascinated by the ability of students to learn in different ways.

“My approach was in line with Howard Gardner’s theory of the seven multiple intelligences: visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal, linguistic and logical-mathematical, meaning that students possess different kinds of minds and therefore learn, remember, perform and understand in different ways,” she says.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 15

ARTS

Giulia Vella Micallef

Gabriel Piscopo

After obtaining her Masters in educational leadership, Ms Cilia took up the post of assistant head in a school, a post she held for four years. In December 2016, she was offered the opportunity to lead and manage the MVPA. She says that the aim of the school is to offer students interdisciplinary exposure to all the five performing art forms so that they develop a holistic perspective towards the performing arts. To this end, although the students specialise in one discipline, they also get the opportunity to study the other arts, as well as academic subjects.

Once they reach Year 11 (Form 5), all students sit for the SEC exams in their major subject. This means that they can the further their studies in their art form at post-secondary level.

“My greatest current aspiration is to see the MVPA develop into a school of excellence wherein students can

16 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

specialise in the performing arts while still studying academic subjects at secondary level,” Ms Cilia says. “Within such an environment, each secondary level student attending our school will be empowered and motivated to reach his or her full personal, academic and cultural potential to serve as an inspiration to others.”

Ms Cilia says that the students are happy and have a more positive attitude towards school. Parents have frequently commented to her that their children wake up enthusiastically and look forward to coming to school every day.

“In five years’ time, the school will have its first group of students sitting for their SEC exams. It is envisaged that these students will be academically and artistically equipped to further their prospects in the performing arts fields,” she says.

“If not, we hope that the performing arts skills will help them lead a more fulfilling life, be able to think creatively

“Students who are artistically oriented learn better academically in an environment that supports such an orientation”

and face challenges in life more effectively.”

In Ms Cilia’s opinion, it is very important to expose children and teenagers to the arts: “It is a well-known fact that students who are artistically oriented learn better academically in an environment that supports such an orientation. Students at the MVPA can spend more time on

Riona Degiorgio

ARTS

Leonel Mifsud during drama class.

Liam Spiteri and Holly Newling Ward have taken up media studies.

performing arts lessons, which means that they spend more time doing what they enjoy doing most. Seeing students smiling, singing, dancing or drawing during my school rounds is so rewarding.”

Music students Eva Meire, Giulia Vella Micallef and Gabriel Piscopo are three of these happy pupils. They all agree that they are very lucky to be able to study something they are very passionate about.

“It is very difficult to choose one favourite part of all this because here we have great teachers, I made new fantastic friends and the whole day is full of activities that makes it fun. My parents always wished for a school like this for me and my friends say they wish that they can have the opportunity to experience it with me,” says Giulia.

Finally, a word from 11-year-old media studies student Liam Spiteri who wants to be an animator when he

grows up (as well as a chef): “At the Malta Visual and Performing Art School, we get individual attention because we are not a lot of students, and I like that.

We are like a family.”

More information about the MVPA may be found by searching The Malta Visual & Performing Arts School on Facebook or by calling 2598 6250.

NUTRITION

Parents should encourage healthy appetites from a young age.

Feeding young children:

what are the choices?

Nutritionist Maria Gatt discusses the importance of eating a varied and balanced diet from a young age and gives indications on the portions needed from each food group to ensure healthy growth. oung children between the ages of 12 months and three to four years grow and develop quickly. Parents need to make sure that children at this age are eating well and that they are getting all the energy and nutrients they need.

This phase in a young child’s life is also an important time for him/her to

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learn about food and eating so that good habits are fostered and they learn to consume a healthy, varied diet that can be enjoyed with the rest of the family.

However, at times, it can be hard for parents to know exactly what toddlers should be eating and in what amounts.

EATING A HEALTHY, VARIED DIET One of the most common complaints among parents of toddlers is that they refuse to eat certain foods. Some children will be reluctant to try out new tastes and others will not accept foods with which they were previously familiar. This ongoing ‘battle’ between parent and child lasts till the child turns about six, after which most children will generally accept a wider variety of foods. Although fairly normal, this period cannot be ignored because it is very important that young children get used to eating a healthy, varied diet

NUTRITION that includes food from the four main food groups. These include: • fruits and vegetables (five times a day); • starchy foods (five times a day); • protein foods (two times a day); • dairy foods (three times a day).

FRUIT AND VEGETABLES Fruit and vegetables are essential in a child’s diet because they contain several vitamins and minerals which are crucial for healthy development. Try to include as many coloured fruits and vegetables as possible. Children often initially reject vegetables but do not give up on offering them over and over again.

Toddler-sized portions of fruits and vegetables per day should include: • ½ to 1 small banana; • 4 to 8 grapes; • ¼ to ½ medium apple; • 1 to 3 cherry tomatoes; • 2 to 6 carrot sticks; • 1 to 2 tablespoons broccoli/ pumpkin; • 1 to 2 tablespoons peas.

STARCHY FOODS Foods such as bread, rice, pasta, cereals and potatoes provide your toddler with energy, B vitamins and calcium.

Several fortified

A young child should not drink more than 300ml milk daily.

breakfast cereals intended for young children can also provide iron, folic acid and, in some cases, vitamin D. In using these latter products, be wary of the nutritional information on the pack and stay away from cereals with a high sugar content. It is recommended that a young child’s portion (20-30g) of breakfast cereal does not contain more than 5g of sugar. Other suitable portions of starchy foods are the following: • 1 to 3 tablespoons mashed potato/ sweet potato; • 2 to 4 tablespoons cooked rice/ pasta; • 2 to 4 potato wedges; • 1 to 2 oat/rice cakes; • ½ to 1 slice of bread.

At this young age, wholemeal cereals are not highly recommended, and, if given to children, they should be offered gradu-

ally. Young childrens’ stomachs are still small and they can fill up very easily on products with a high level of fibre. This could make them stop eating before they get enough energy from food to satisfy their needs.

PROTEIN FOODS These foods include meat, fish, eggs and pulses (beans, lentils, chickpeas).

They provide protein and iron, both very essential for a growing child. Oily fish like salmon and fresh tuna is a very rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which are very important for proper brain maturation. Offering these foods with vitamin C-rich foods/drinks will also help enhance their iron absorption.

At two portions of protein per day, some suggestions for suitable choices include: • 2 to 4 tablespoons chicken/ veal/beef; • 2 to 4 tablespoons fish; • 2 to 3 tablespoons baked beans; • 1 poached/hardboiled egg; • peanut butter on bread/toast.

“Stay away from cereals with a high sugar content”

DAIRY FOODS Milk, cheese, yoghurt and ricotta are very good sources of protein, fat and vitamins B2 and B12. Full fat varieties are best for toddlers and skimmed milk products are not suitable for children under five years.

At three servings of dairy foods per day, here are some suggestions in toddler-sized portions.

• 1 pot of yoghurt (125g); • 1 cheese triangle; • 2 to 3 tablespoons ricotta; • 100ml milk.

It is recommended that the amount of milk offered to a young child does not exceed 300ml daily. This is particularly important because higher volumes could make the child feel full and consequently reject food from other food groups which are equally important for optimal growth and development.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 21

NUTRITION

As for the choice of milk, this could be either fresh cow’s milk or young child (toddler) formula. This latter choice provides the child with a higher level of iron and vitamin D and a lower level of protein which has been researched and found to be of benefit in reducing the chance of obesity later on in life.

It is worth emphasising that at this age a child formula forms part of a balanced diet and should not be thought of as a solution to replace other food groups.

DRINKS It is imperative to ensure that a young child is well hydrated with at least 800ml of fluid daily. Water should be the main drink and milk is the next preference. If fruit juices or sweetened drinks/milk are given, these should only be offered at the main mealtimes. This reduces the chances of tooth decay and helps to discourage developing a preference for sweet drinks. For the same reason, after the age of 12 months, milk should be offered from a cup/beaker and not from a bottle.

Malta has the highest rate of childhood obesity in children with more than one in four of all two- to four-yearolds estimated to be overweight or obese. Such children are more likely to suffer from emotional and 22 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

Vegetables, together with fruit, contain several vitamins and minerals.

psychological problems and tend to grow up to become overweight or obese adults which can lead to very serious health problems like type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

It is recommended that physical activity should be encouraged at an early age since being active on a daily basis improves children’s bone health, develops movement and coordination and contributes to a healthy weight.

Screen time (TV, iPads, smartphones) should be limited and physical activity encouraged to take up as much as three hours per day.

Sometimes it is difficult to recognise that a child is overweight, so one should consult regularly with a doctor who will able to assist you with your concerns about your child’s diet and activity levels.

Regular annual visits to a dentist are also very highly recommended from this young age and it is a must to

supervise brushing of teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.

It is also recommended that children under the age of five should take a daily supplement of vitamins A, C and D in the form of drops/syrup; ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

It might sound obvious but the key to overcoming fussy eating is to help your child learn to like the foods you offer. Children are born with very few likes and dislikes – they acquire these through experience.

Aim to create a healthy home environment that is conducive to healthy eating. Stock up on a wide array of healthy foods and try to avoid having foods high in fats and sugars on display or within easy reach.

‘Model’ behaviour from parents has been shown to be an effective way to encourage children to accept new foods, so lead by example and eat the foods that you would like your child to eat.

RELIEVING A COUGH s the season changes and colder weather sets in, certain illnesses start spreading throughout schools and workplaces. Most people catch the common cold, which is almost always accompanied by coughing. But what is a cough?

A cough is a natural reflex that protects your lungs. It helps clear your airways of lung irritants, such as smoke and mucus, as well as infection.

However, prolonged coughing can cause unpleasant side effects, such as chest pain, exhaustion, lightheadedness and loss of bladder control. Coughing can also interfere with sleep, socialising and work.

Coughing occurs when the nerve endings in your airways become irritated. The airways are tubes that carry air into and out of your lungs.

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Certain substances (such as smoke and pollen), medical conditions and medicines can irritate these nerve endings.

There are three types of cough: • Acute (less than three weeks): Common causes are common cold or other respiratory tract infections such as the flu, pneumonia and whooping cough.

• Subacute (three to eight weeks): This type of cough remains even after a cold or other respiratory infections are over.

• Chronic (more than eight weeks): common causes of a chronic cough are upper airway cough syndrome, asthma and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Treatment depends on the type of cough you have.

Abrolin syrup is a cough preparation containing Ambroxol, which is a mucolytic agent and is used to relieve productive cough. The onset of action occurs after about 30 minutes. The breakdown of the sputum makes it thinner and less viscous and therefore more easily removed by coughing.

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Play is serious business as far as children are concerned and that is why consultant psychologists came up with the term ‘play diet’. Play contributes immensely to your child’s development in many important ways. How? As children play, they learn all about themselves and what they can do. Play helps them make friends, enjoy company, discover the world, read, write, draw and fantasise – all while having fun. Play draws out the potential of future engineers, doctors, artists, musicians and teachers, among other professions.

Play also improves a child’s confidence and social skills through: Exploration: By learning through discovery, your little explorer develops belief in their skills and abilities.

Movement: As soon as your child can move, he would want to play all over the house. The “I got there by myself” expression shows your child’s growing confidence.

Imagination: toddlers start to use their imagination in pretend play and role imitation.

Creativity: Children start showing their creativity through their drawings, kit making and building. Watch your child’s eyes brighten when you smile at their drawings.

Socialising: Playing with friends is a great way for your child to learn important social skills like sharing and taking turns.

Problem solving: Your child’s confidence is boosted by solving puzzle toys on their own. They would rather do it without too much help.

Language: Playing with other children helps in the building of your child’s vocabulary, speech and communication skills.

With all of these important developments in mind, a good balanced diet of play should consist of three portions of three main types of play every single day. Like a good diet consisting of all the valuable nutritional food, play time should consist of a portion of creative, imaginative and active play.

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TIPS TO BOOST YOUR CHILD’S CONFIDENCE THROUGH PLAY 1. Give lots of praise when your child plays well.

2. Use age-appropriate toys that challenge your child’s understanding.

3. Aim for your child to increase learning in small stages.

4. Avoid comparing the way your child plays with the way other children play.

5. Give your child a cuddle sometimes during play.

6. Be sympathetic when your child becomes frustrated in play.

Creative play may include drawing or painting, playing music, cooking or creating something. It does not matter what your child makes or whether the result is perfect. Through creative play, children express themselves, learn about process and discover cause and effects while gaining pride in their achievements.

Imaginative play starts in your child’s head. It can be role playing, creating a new game, giving toys a voice, inventing adventures or playing a word game. Through imaginative play your child begins to understand the world, investigates facts and fiction, and develops positive relationships with themselves and other persons.

Active play is how a child moves in the world. It is running, jumping, catching, dancing all of which build strength and coordination. Active play is also a great way to learn about teamwork, release of tension and fun.

Choosing the right age-appropriate toys for your child makes a huge difference to the mental, physical and social development of a child… because playing is serious business!

This article was provided by the Early Learning Centre (ELC), found in Valletta, Rabat and Victoria. For more information, visit www.elctoysmalta.com.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 29

TOP TIPS

How to help your children become more grateful ith Christmas round the corner, it can be easy to let modern luxuries to which many people worldwide do not the excitement of the season distract us from the have access. spirit of the season. While no one is immune, chilGo big by switching your main electric breaker to simulate dren can be particularly vulnerable to being sucked into a self- a power outage for a few hours or the whole day, or start centred mindset as they ponder just what they’ll be able to get somewhere smaller like switching off the Wi-Fi at home. Whatout of this time of year. ever you decide to go without, you should make sure it’s big There is certainly nothing wrong with enjoying oneself enough to make an impression. The experience can go a long and getting excited about the food, activities and way towards helping your children appreciate what gifts to come. Many parents, however, find they have on a daily basis. themselves frustrated with the selfish and uncompassionate attitude that their chilSTART A CONVERSATION dren display at this time of year.

It is almost cliché around Christmas to go “Contentment Some children can get so wrapped up around the family stating things for which with what you in what could be that they show a comeach person is grateful but that does not have already is plete lack of gratitude for what is. Here mean it is not a good exercise. Rather than are three tips for turning that attitude saving it for the main feast, however, try having the key to around and teaching your children to be a real conversation about what gratitude is and happiness” more grateful: what there is to appreciate in your life.

Discuss with your children both tangible and inSIGN YOUR FAMILY UP TO VOLUNTEER tangible things – from the roof over their head to the Few things can help a person become more grateeasy access to education that enables them to read and ful for what he or she has faster than serving someone who write. Gratitude is as much a habit as anything else, so taking has next to nothing. Whether it’s volunteering in a community time to be actively grateful each day and discuss it with one anfor the homeless or personally delivering essential items to other can work wonders for a seemingly ungrateful child. You children in a local orphanage, let your children see what life is may find it helps you to become more appreciative as well. like for those who are less fortunate.

Encourage children to consider that, under different circumGratitude is more than just being thankful for the things you stances, they could be in the same situation. The good fortune do have; it’s also about minimising unhealthy desires for the of being born into a stable household with all their necessities things you do not have. Contentment with what you have almet is not something that falls on everyone. ready is the key to happiness and that is the highest reward of becoming more grateful.

GO WITHOUT A MODERN LUXURY FOR A DAY OR TWO Use these tips to help your kids understand that, while it is There is an old saying that states you don’t know what you okay to have a wish list, it isn’t right to let your happiness and have until it’s gone. It’s a simple concept but true. Sometimes, attitude depend on whether or not you obtain things. Circumchildren fail to have gratitude because they do not understand stances could always be better and they could always be how incredible what they have is. Simple things like worse – learning to be grateful in any situation now will prepare indoor plumbing, clean running water and electricity are still your child for whatever life brings their way in the future.

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TOP TIPS

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 31

San Andrea School celebrates a milestone an Andrea School provides a happy, systematic and creative learning environment in which students feel safe and cared for, thus ensuring that each child willingly and happily engages in learning. This is only possible thanks to the dedication of each member of staff.

The teachers’ dedication and professional approach to teaching and learning is evident in their creative teaching methodologies and the variety of activities held every year.

This being the 25th anniversary of the school, a number of events and activities have been organised to celebrate this milestone in the history of the school, apart from other activities.

The children started off this scholastic year with a bang… being greeted by the famous Balloon Man and having their photo taken with their parents.

A few weeks into the first term, Grade 3 and Grade 7 students had the opportunity to go round the school and hand-pick olives from the school’s trees – an activity which they enjoyed very much.

This opportunity was further enhanced through the curricular subjects within the individual classes.

In the meantime, the Grade 6 students, currently studying Maltese history as part of their environmental studies lessons, were taken on an outing to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples.

In October, the Grade 9 students had the opportunity of experiencing a ‘live in’ held outside the school, which included activities such as countryside walks, team-building games, Mass and workshops.

The Grade 12 geography option students held a fieldwork activity for their SEC coursework in Mosta in which they tested the sphere of influence of the Mosta market; while students of the Grade 11 and 12 physics option took part in a diving activity through which the topic on ‘pressure’ was tackled.

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The whole school participated in the Pink October initiative by giving donations and wearing pink on October 22. Students from Middle and Senior School also met with the Prime Minister’s wife, Michelle Muscat, in the Multipurpose Hall and welcomed her with a rousing version of Fight Song

by Rachel Platten.

San Andrea School celebrated Grandparents’ Day with a full week of events. Those children whose grandparents could not attend ‘adopted’ a granny or granddad for a day. Events ranged from crafts activities with a difference, bingo, tea parties, ‘show and tell’ sessions, reliving past hobbies and songs, outdoor picnics, as well as a visit to an art exhibition (part of the Kreattiv project).

President of the Grandparents Group, Philip Chircop, attended some of these activities and was thrilled with the involvement of all present.

Finally, groups of San Andrea Senior School students and teachers also visited various cities, including Valencia in Spain and Tvrdošín in Slovakia as part of their Spanish language studies, Erasmus and the Stephen Hawking Science & Technology Project.

This is a paid advert

PROMO

25 years of holistic education his year marks the 25th creative arts, after-school activities, anniversary since the founding sports and physical education are of San Andrea School; however, given high importance. its origin came about in the mid-1980s San Andrea School has also when the Parents Foundation for always looked to the future, being Education (PFE) made the decision to at the forefront of the most set up an independent school advanced teaching methods and financed by the collective effort of the technological innovations in order parents. San Andrea School was to create an environment that is officially opened by then-Minister for motivating and challenging for the Former Education Minister Ugo Mifsud Bonnici officially Education Ugo Mifsud Bonnici in 1992. students, thanks to its excellent inaugurated the San Andrea School in Naxxar in 1992.

From a small building in Naxxar qualified teaching staff. housing a small complement of students and staff to its current Among other facilities, it boasts a state-of-the-art premises in Imselliet with a staff complement of 200 and just multipurpose hall which caters for the performing arts, sports over 1,100 students, San Andrea School has grown into a and other activities, as well as a brand new biology lab school with a history of producing academically-gifted and equipped with all the necessary equipment. accomplished children and young adults, many of whom have While adhering to the ethos and ideals that the first group continued on to tertiary education and graduated with of parents who made up the Parents Foundation for Education honours in a number of fields. had as their objectives, the school aims to reach the needs of Situated in the countryside, while being easily accessible, each individual child in the school and uphold its vision of the school provides a safe and healthy environment for its providing students with a holistic education within a students from pre-nursery and nursery right up to school- multicultural community and with lifelong learning skills skills leaving age. It provides a broad multilingual, fully-inclusive that will help them face future challenges as responsible education system where the academic subjects, drama, citizens and realise their full potential.

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PROMO

WAITING FOR MRS CLAUS Merlin Publishers have released a new book with a slightly different take on the happenings on Christmas Eve. id you notice something a bit odd last Christmas?

You probably wouldn’t have. The thing is, that last Christmas eve, Father Christmas was running a very high fever and lay sick in bed, coughing. There was no way he could have even have climbed up his sleigh, let alone drive his reindeers across the globe and stop at each house to deliver the presents.

As you can imagine this caused a lot of panic … until Mrs Claus, the wife of Santa, said: “I’ll go instead”. The elves were momentarily stunned and then burst out laughing “No way!” “U ma tarax!” His outfit won’t fit you and you need a dress and how can you possibly drive the sleigh,” they argued.

Mrs Claus enlisted the help of the elfettes and she soon was kitted in a brand new (sleeker) red outfit and recruited help for driving the sleigh and checking the presents’ list.

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Is-Sinjura Klaws, therefore, is the story of how last Christmas Eve, Santa did not miss a beat – and it was only thanks to his missus.

This book was inspired after the author, Clare Azzopardi, asked her little nephew Matthew: “What if Santa woke up feeling unwell on Christmas eve?”

The little boy kept insisting that that would not be possible, but eventually came up with a solution: “Maybe Mrs Claus would come.”

Ms Azzopardi, who worked hand in hand with illustrator Lisa Falzon, kept mulling over what he said and a rather feminist story started shaping up.

She fervently hopes that parents will read it to both their daughters and their sons.

Is-Sinjura Klaws has no fixed target age. It is ideal both for reading to very young children 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.

RECIPES

Christmas The Pulis family moved to Switzerland 10 years ago. They have grown accustomed to the country's traditions and the children, Ian, Julian and Ally love the local Christmas treats. Here are three recipes courtesy of mum Sharon. They are easy to follow and children can give a helping hand.

n December 6, Samichlaus – the Swiss-German name for St Nicholas – comes to town in Switzerland. He is dressed in a red robe like a bishop with a pointed golden cap and carries a tall stalk. Accompanying him is Schmutzli, which translates into ‘dirty’, dressed in a monk’s robe with a hood pulled over his head.

The latter usually carries a broom of twigs for administering punishment to

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children whose behaviour throughout the year has not been up to scratch.

Samichlaus instead brings a bag full of nuts, chocolates, Grittibänz and Lebkuchen to the wellbehaved children.

Ally, 4, meets Samichlaus while in the forest with her forest group while Ian, 12, and Julian, 8, get to meet him at school. Dad Brian gets his own goodie bag at work.

Samichlaus also brings a big bag of goodies for everyone to share after Mass.

During this time of the year, every food store in Switzerland is stocked with Grittibänz and Lebkuchen, but Sharon and her family prefer to bake their own.

“It’s more fun and according to Julian they taste as good as the bought ones,” says Sharon.

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recipes

GRITTIBÄNZ Ingredients (makes 8 medium-sized figures) • 550ml milk (preferably lukewarm) • 1 packet dry yeast • 1kg flour • 50g butter • 1 egg • 3 tsp salt • 1 tbsp sugar Method: Mix the milk with the yeast and put aside. Mix the other dry ingredients, add the milk and yeast and mix together until you get a dough (it should not be sticky but not dry either). Leave in a warm place for an hour or more.

Then shape the Grittibänz, usually it’s a boy or girl with a hat. You can look up Grittibänz on YouTube to get an idea of how to make and shape them. set aside for another hour during which they double in size, before baking. Brush the dough with egg and decorate with raisins before putting in the oven.

Bake for 20 minutes in a preheated oven (180˚c).

36 cHiLD NOVeMBer 2017

Preparing the Lebkuchen house

Grittibänz can be prepared ahead and frozen. in this case, cook for 10 to 15 minutes before they turn golden brown, take them out of the oven, let them cool down, wrap in foil and put in freezer.

When you want to eat them, put them in a cold oven and cook for another 10 or 15 minutes until golden brown.

LEBKUCHEN Lebkuchen is a traditional German-baked christmas treat, resembling gingerbread.

A popular form is the witch’s house, reminiscent of the one depicted in the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale. The pulis family love it, especially Julian, and all the children

get involved in its preparation.

Ingredients (makes a cake tin of biscuits; double the recipe if you want to make the Lebkuchen house) • 300g flour • 180g brown sugar • 10g cinnamon • 10g bicarbonate of soda • 20g mixed spices • 2 eggs • 80g honey milk Method: Knead all the ingredients together and let the Lebkuchen dough rest overnight.

RECIPES

The following day, roll out the dough on a floured work surface and cut out the desired shapes with cookie cutters.

Preheat the oven to 170˚C. Place the shapes on a baking tray lined with baking paper and brush with milk. Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes until they have a nice colour.

Once the Lebkuchen have cooled, they can be decorated as desired or glazed with chocolate.

They can be stored in an airtight tin or container.

PANFORTE DI SIENA Panforte di Siena is not typically Swiss but is an Italian treat that is a cross between fruitcake, candy and Lebkuchen.

Sharon and her family love it.

Ingredients (makes 16 servings) • ½ cup plus 2 tbsp cake flour, divided • 1 ½ cup teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided • ¼ tsp ground coriander • ¼ tsp ground cloves • ¼ tsp ground nutmg • ½ cup honey • ½ cup granulated sugar • ½ cup candied citron or candied melon, cut into small pieces • ½ cup candied orange peel, cut into small pieces • 1 cup almonds or hazelnuts, toasted and coarse • powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar) 38 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

A Lebkuchen Christmas tree

For the breadcrumb lining • 1 tbsp cake flour • 1 tbsp fine breadcrumbs • 2 tbsps ground almonds or hazelnuts Method: Preheat the oven to 150˚C and adjust rack to centre position.

Prepare the breadcrumb lining and line the baking pan; set aside.

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup cake flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, coriander, cloves and nutmeg; set aside.

In another small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of cake flour and ½ teaspoon cinnamon; set aside and save for the top.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine honey and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until the mixture comes to a full boil; remove from heat. Stir in the candied fruit and almonds or hazelnuts. Sift in the flour mixture; stir until well blended.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Smooth top with the slightly wet palm of your hand. Sift the reserved cinnamon-flour mixture over the top.

Place the cake in the middle oven rack. Bake for 30 minutes or until the

Preparing the Panforte di Siena (left)

panforte just starts to simmer around the edge of the pan. Remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack.

Loosen from the pan by running a knife around the perimeter. Invert on to a wire rack, letting excess cinnamon flour fall away. Use a knife to peel away the parchment or rice paper. Invert the panforte again and transfer on to a wire rack. Dust top with powdered sugar.

When cool, it can be wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap and a layer of aluminium foil and stored in an airtight container for several weeks or frozen for up to six months.

Serve at room temperature. Before serving, dust lightly with additional powdered sugar. Cut into small wedges to serve.

FOOTWEAR

ENSURING THE

RIGHT FIT Ill-fitting shoes can lead to lifelong foot problems.

So be careful when choosing footwear for your child, says podiatrist Stephen Mizzi. ootwear has been used by humans for over 10,000 years. But the role of footwear has changed over the centuries from one of protection to a status symbol during the Roman Empire to one of fashion during the Renaissance Era when heels were introduced.

Children’s shoes generally mimicked the idiosyncratic styles of the adults and it was not until the 20th century that children’s footwear diverged from the dominant adult prototype and footwear evolved specifically for children.

However, the ideal shoe is very difficult to find and is often a matter of compromise, particularly with older children who are influenced by fashion and peer group pressure. Footwear which is too big, too small or does not fit properly, can cause foot problems in adulthood, such as hammer and claw toes, bunions and muscular problems, but even in other parts of the body such as pain at the ankles, knees and back.

A recent study conducted at the Podiatry Department within the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, investigated the adequacy of school shoes in a primary State school. Researcher and podiatrist Clarice Cilia

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40 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

recruited a sample of 124 children (60 boys and 64 girls) attending grades 3, 4 and 5 at this school at the beginning of the scholastic year, with most shoes still new.

Shoes were mainly assessed for fit, which included length and width.

The results of this study revealed that a staggering 61.7 “Shoes must fit per cent of shoes were too the foot snugly at the short in length, indicating a heel with a good poor fit. Of interest was a fastening system, thus significant percentage difpreventing the foot from ference between genders, a size every three slipping forward in the with boys having shoes of a months. Until the shoe while shorter fit when compared age of three years, a walking” to girls. These results demonchild’s foot size instrate that although most school creases by one size every shoes had a suitable style with an adeight months and thereafter equate fastening system, ill-fitting every year. shoes remain an issue. Since the majorShoes must fit the foot snugly at the ity of the shoes were new, the findings heel with a good fastening system, thus imply that more education related to preventing the foot from slipping forchoosing the right shoe size with the ward in the shoe while walking. The appropriate fit is needed. shoes need to allow enough room for When purchasing children’s shoes, the toes, about 1.25cm (a thumb’s one needs to keep in mind that chilwidth) between the longest toe and the dren’s feet grow irregularly and rapidly. tip of the shoe. This allows for sufficient As every parent can attest, children movement of the toes and reasonable seem to outgrow a pair of shoes in a room for growth. In order to get the jiffy. Before 18 months, feet grow more right fit, it is important that fitting than half a shoe size every two months. should be done with the child Toddler’s feet grow an average of half standing up, as the posture of the foot

FOOTWEAR KEY TIPS FOR A GOOD FIT • A good fit includes length, width and height of uppers; • Always leave around 1.25cm between the longest toe to the tip of the shoe; • Shoe fitting should be done with the child standing up; • Always have both feet measured, as one foot might be slightly longer than the other.

• Think twice when purchasing shoes over the internet; • Check shoe materials; • Used shoes that have lost their shape should be avoided.

THINGS TO REMEMBER • Most toddlers are flat-footed when they first start walking because the muscles and ligaments of their feet are underdeveloped.

• Toddlers should go barefoot as often as possible to encourage balance, posture and coordination.

• See your doctor or podiatrist if you are concerned about your child’s feet or gait. is different from when the foot is nonweight bearing.

Also beware of the shoes’ material.

Children’s feet perspire a lot, and therefore, the shoe upper should be made of breathable materials, such as leather. This will allow the foot to ‘breathe’ comfortably, thus avoiding skin infections associated with humid, closed environment, commonly seen with shoe materials of poor quality.

Most importantly, never buy shoes unless the child is present to try them on. This is particularly relevant when parents buy footwear online or without their children present and rely solely on the size marked on the shoe box, not on actual fit. The child needs to try the footwear before purchase. If parents feel concerned, they should always

seek professional advice, for whatever reason, as it is better to iron out any issues and intervene at an early stage rather than later.

Cynthia Formosa, head of the Podiatry School at the University of Malta, in fact suggests that before a parent shops for a pair of shoes, one visits a foot specialist like a podiatrist where gait can be observed and analysed and the child is prescribed the correct category of shoe type.

This would help one buy the appropriate shoe that is adequate for the child’s specific foot type and biomechanics. As a result of the variety of foot shapes, shoe manufacturers and companies have developed different models of shoes to accommodate children of all strides.

The study mentioned in this article was approved by the University of Malta Ethics Committee and consent was sought from parents/guardians from all children who participated before any data was gathered.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 41

TEENAGERS

Not just an aesthetic issue Acne is a medical condition which is not to be taken lightly, says consultant dermatologist Lawrence Scerri. He tells Stephanie Fsadni about the importance of timely and proper intervention to avoid the possible repercussions of those inflamed red spots. uberty is a time of many changes, physical and emotional. Unpleasantly for many, it is accompanied by the onset of acne which may seriously impact an adolescent’s life and not only leave facial scars but also psychological ones.

“There are studies which clearly show that acne significantly impairs quality of life and is also responsible for impaired social interaction,” says consultant dermatologist Lawrence Scerri.

“One of the negative consequences of acne is the psychological impact such as low self-esteem, poor morale, anxiety and depression which one should strive to address through proper and timely treatment.”

Acne tends to present most commonly in the early to mid-teens and on average it appears slightly earlier in females than in males. It affects the face in the majority of cases and also the trunk in around two-thirds of cases, especially males.

Acne lesions may be subdivided into two categories: inflamed lesions (red spots, boils and inflamed lumps) and non-inflamed lesions (blackheads or whiteheads, also known as comedones).

There is another form of acne which tends to occur in the ages between 25

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and 45 years and which is known as post-adolescent acne.

“The latter form of acne is becoming more common and affects especially females,” says Dr Scerri.

Acne is mainly a hormonal issue, although lifestyle factors may aggravate the situation.

“It is caused by the effect of the male hormone testosterone, which is found in both males and females, on the pilo-sebaceous unit which in actual fact is the structure containing the hair

follicle plus sebaceous or oil-producing gland,” explains Dr Scerri.

“The level of testosterone in the skin tends to shoot up especially around puberty as part of the transition from childhood to adulthood, and such a state of affairs tends to persist for a number of years.

CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017 43

TEENAGERS “Hence teenage acne tends to occur mainly between the ages of 11 to 25 years.”

He adds that, occasionally, a high level of testosterone may be caused by certain hormonal diseases such as the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and virilising tumours of the ovaries or adrenal gland.

A number of factors may worsen the condition, including stress and oily cosmetics. Among older individuals, certain drugs such as muscle-enhancing hormones and hormonal intrauterine contraceptive devices may play a part.

As for the popular belief that food plays an important role in the development of acne, Dr Scerri says that “the evidence is not so strong as most people like to believe”.

Another good thing to know about acne is that although it includes inflamed spots such as boils, it is not contagious.

“Hence there is no fear of spread to different parts of the body or to others. There is no need for one to worry about sharing towels or change pillow cases every day or avoid skin to skin contact with others,” emphasises Dr Scerri.

Various treatments are nowadays available to keep acne under control.

“We now have very effective medical remedies to treat the various forms and different severities of acne, ranging from topical products to oral medications including antibiotics, oral contraceptive pills for females and a vitamin A derivative,” says Dr Scerri.

“There is no one-size-fits-all and the treatment regime needs to be adapted according to each case after proper medical assessment.”

In mild cases of a few spots here and there, there are various over-thecounter topical remedies available at the chemist. However, anything more than this warrants proper medical assessment and treatment.

Dr Scerri suggests to avoid greasy cosmetics and greasy skincare or hair care products, as these clog the pores and aggravate acne.

Nowadays, one can find oil-free, mat, 44 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

“Acne is a medical condition, hence medical treatment is the most appropriate line of action”

non-comedogenic foundations which are designed for acne-prone skin and water-based hair gels. Moisturisers used on acne-prone skin should be also non-oily or non-comedogenic and should aim for a mattifying effect. Sunscreens, which are an important part of everyone’s skin regime, should be oilfree too.

As regards natural remedies, Dr Scerri says that scrubs and masks might be suitable for mild acne, predominantly consisting of blackheads. However, these are not advisable for people with significant inflamed spots or for the more severe forms of acne “as they tend to aggravate the inflammatory picture”.

What about having facials? Do they help?

“Acne is a medical condition, hence medical treatment is the most appropriate line of action especially if serious undesirable consequences such as scarring are to be avoided,” recommends Dr Scerri.

As acne usually drags on your years, the treatment plan should be of a continuous nature with periodic assessments and treatment reviews, rather than short courses of treatment “with nothing in between”, as the latter approach does not ensure consistent control.

“Delayed treatment, under-treatment and inappropriate treatment may lead to disfiguring permanent scarring. Indeed, this should not be the case nowadays given that we have an effective armamentarium of medical treatments at our disposal,” says Dr Scerri.

He urges parents not to triavialise acne or ignore the negative psychological effects.

“Do not underestimate acne.

Parents should be instrumental in facilitating proper and timely treatment. Today there is no excuse for allowing it to bring anyone down and for not preventing permanent physical disfigurement.”

EVENTS One Morning I Left

Creativity matters ŻiguŻajg, the arts festival for children and young adults, this year features no less than 150 performances. The festival’s director, Daniel Azzopardi, gives Stephanie Fsadni an idea of the creative process involved in presenting topical issues to a young audience in a fun and engaging way. he seventh edition of ŻiguŻajg is currently taking place in various venues across Valletta and Floriana. The event is replete with performances for various age groups and features local and international acts.

There is puppetry, dance theatre, clowning, visual arts, music workshops, dance and circus acts, among others, all of which aim to entertain children and young adults while giving them some food for thought.

Instilling a love for creativity is very important for young minds, as Daniel Azzopardi, the director of the festival, says.

“In order to have a healthy and engaging social environment, it is essential to invest in the upbringing of new generations. This is no different in the creative sector with studies showing that the more we expose children to creative thinking and expression, the better their overall well-being.”

But being creative does not only mean having a penchant for artistic endeavours.

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Goodbye Berlin

46 CHiLD NOVEMBER 2017

“Creativity and innovative ways of thinking are essentially required in any walk of life. No wonder that more professional creatives are developing cross-sectoral initiatives that combine the skills of experts from different fields," points out Mr Azzopardi.

A number of performances at ŻiguŻajg, in fact, tackle serious themes in the most inventive of ways, such as the effects of solitude, the protection of the outcomes of conflict and the importance of freedom of expression.

Presenting these issues to children and getting the message across to them might seem quite an arduous task as certain concepts might seem too difficult for them to grasp.

However, Mr Azzopardi says that the process involved in the staging of these performances is in essence no different from that used for adult shows.

“It is about telling stories that convey emotions and have a resounding effect on audiences,” he says. “Engaged performers go through a thorough research and development phase that involves focus sessions with the target audience and conversations with a number of experts.

“At the end of the process we devise projects that speak of things which are relevant to kids and also to their guardians using creative methods which best convey the themes on a number of levels.”

The organisers also make sure to engage professionals, such as child psychologists, to share their expertise on the subject matter/s.

“Such input not only provides different insight but also gives the work a whole new performative and interactive dynamic.”

Mr Azzopardi says that the quality of local productions has gradually improved over the years and this is reflected in the festival’s multidisciplinary programme.

“When ŻiguŻajg started in 2011, the organisers had difficulty finding work which was suitable for children and

EVENTS Naufragata

Aħna Aħwa Jew M'Aħniex

young people. Seven years on, ŻiguŻajg has commissioned over 42 projects with a full repertoire to choose from,” he says, adding that the festival is now recognised as one of the top events of its kind in the world.

Apart from championing work by local creatives, the festival makes it a point to invite some of the best international productions.

“This gives an opportunity for our audiences to see top– quality productions while also putting the festival on the international map when it comes to showcasing a very diverse programme of events. Such mixture of creatives also provides the ideal platform wherin artists can network and share practices.”

The festival is coming to an end this weekend, with two days chock-a-block with performances.

Among these, Mr Azzopardi highlights the screening of the German roadtrip movie Goodbye Berlin, whose teenage

The Indian Summer of Circo Zoe

Sound Play

protagonist, Anand Batbileg, will be in attendance. Also of note is the contemporary circus show Naufragata which promises to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.

But while this year’s festival is about to wrap up, preparations are already under way for next year’s edition, when Valletta will be Europe’s capital of culture.

“It will be another edition to remember with the involvement of critically-acclaimed companies together with some of the best emerging performers. Keep yourself adjourned through our website and Facebook page,” recommends Mr Azzopardi.

Don’t miss out on the last two days of the festival with performances spread throughout the day. For a detailed programme and tickets, visit www.ziguzajg.org. One can also buy tickets from the Spazju Kreattiv website, www.kreattivita.org.

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PRODUCTS & SERVICES

SHOP wINDOw Sensitive diapers Diapers are not only a daily baby care product but also a way of living in a friendly, safe and sensitive environment. Certified by Oeko-Tex Standard 100 for absence of harmful substances and embedding ‘Dry Matrix’ technology for extra absorbency, Babylino Sensitive diapers offer the quality and protection you need for your baby.

For trade enquires, contact Pemix Distributors on 2143 7926 or visit www.facebook.com/Babylino.Malta/.

Delicious natural foods Bear makes delicious natural foods with the aim of helping children be healthier and happier. The brand’s goal is to help them increase their fruit and fibre intake in a fun and friendly way. Fruity Bear Nibbles and Bear Alphabites cereals contain real ingredients, with no added substances. Bear Yoyos are pure fruit rolls, perfect for lunchboxes and a great on-the-go snack. They are made from 100 per cent pure fruit, no added sugar or concentrates and are available in four flavours. There is also a free collectable card inside.

Bear Paws shapes are suitable for children from 12 months +. These are made from pure fruit and vegetables and are available in four different flavours. Bear Alphabites provide a fun and healthy breakfast made from five grains and coconut blossom nectar. They have no refined sugars and are naturally high in fibre and calcium. Enjoy Bear Alphabites crunchy cereal letters with milk and choose from cocoa or multigrain. For more information on Bear, visit www.bearnibbles.co.uk.

Bear is imported and distributed locally by M&Z (Marketing) Ltd and is found in all leading supermarkets.

A 100% organic range The New Cuore Di Natura by Plasmon is a range of simple and naturally good meals made from organically farmed ingredients. It offers a variety of 14 flavours to accompany your growing child on the discovery of the world of tastes and flavours. Cuore Di Natura uses: • organically farmed ingredients; • selected raw materials suitable for infants; • 100 per cent fruit enriched with vitamin C; • Selection of meat, vegetables and legumes, all 100 per cent natural ingredients.

For more information, call the Plasmon team on 2258 8600 or visit the Facebook page Plasmon (Malta).

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Child savings plan The Mapfre MSV Child Savings Plan is an effective and flexible way of saving for your little ones in a secure and tax-efficient way. Subject to a minimum of €40 per month, the plan gives you the flexibility to decide on the amount you can afford to save each month and whether to increase or decrease the amounts you save over time. It also gives you the opportunity to take breaks in paying in if need be.

It’s a great way to save any monetary gifts your child receives, since you will be able to make one-off additional payments at any time. Another great benefit is that you will be able to withdraw up to €1,000 each year from your plan.

Starting a plan is simple. Don’t forget that it is always more beneficial to start saving as early as possible, because your money will grow more. It can also make a fantastic gift from grandparents or loved ones, who will be given a certificate to present to the child.

For more information and full terms on the Child Savings Plan, contact Mapfre MSV Life on info@msvlife.com or Freephone 8007 2220. You can also get in touch with your insurance broker or one of Mapfre MSV’s Tied Insurance Intermediaries.

Mapfre MSV Life plc is authorised by the Malta Financial Services Authority to carry on long-term business under the Insurance Business Act, 1988. COM MSV 020317

Natural supplement OptiBac Probiotics For Babies & Children is a natural supplement ideally formulated for kids, containing live cultures, such as Bifidobacterium infantis Rosell-33.

For Babies & Children contains three well-researched strains of natural bacteria, shown to improve immunity and reduce common childhood infections by 25 per cent.1 Each sachet has three billion live cultures and FOS fibres. This natural supplement contains no added sugars, flavourings or colourings, and is suitable

from birth and throughout pregnancy.

OptiBac Probiotics For Babies & Children combines an optimal blend of L. acidophilus Rosell-52, B. bifidum Rosell-71 and B. infantis Rosell-33, with prebiotic FOS. This specific combination is designed to support healthy intestinal flora, essential to maintain the body’s natural defences.

1 Cazzola, M. et al (2010) Efficacy of a symbiotic supplementation in the prevention of common winter diseases in children: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Ther. Adv. Respir. Dis.

Huggies DryNites bed mats 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.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES Progressing with sMA Progress Kids Growing children need lots of energy. They need vitamins, minerals and proteins to stay strong and healthy. SMA Pro Progress Kids is a growing-up 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.

It is important to note that breast is best for babies.

For more information and support, contact Vivian Corporation on 2258 8600 and ask for the SMA Nutrition Team.

nutrition during breastfeeding A healthy, well-balanced diet is important during breastfeeding. Although a supplement does not replace a well-balanced diet, it can provide some extra insurance on those days when taking care of your new baby keeps you from eating as well as you like. It is important to choose a multivitamin that is especially formulated for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding that supports your nutritional requirements adequately as a nursing mother.

Nestlé Materna helps provide the vitamins and minerals you need during all stages of your pregnancy. After pregnancy, Nestlé Materna provides both calcium and vitamin D to help meet the nutritional needs while breastfeeding.

Available in pharmacies.

Keeping your baby dry Is your baby starting to wriggle around and to crawl away during diaper change? Do you sometimes find taped diapers hard to apply?

Then say goodbye to fussy changing time with Pampers Baby-Dry Pants.

Pampers Baby-Dry Pants are easy to pull on and provide up to 12 hours of dryness. Their allround fit adapts to your baby’s movements to provide comfort and fit. The revolutionary three absorbing channels help distribute wetness evenly for less wet bulk and lock it away, keeping your baby dry.

Distributed by VJ Salomone Marketing; tel. 8007 2387.

Adorable festive jumpers Mothercare in Sliema, Valletta, Birkirkara, Fgura and Gozo, has a selection of festive jumpers that are perfect for your little tots at this time of year. Look up the Mothercare Malta Facebook page for more information.

Cream reindeer sweat top – €17.50 Grey reindeer sweat top – €17.50 Snowman jumper – €21.50 Christmas reindeer Jumper – €21.50 My first festive all in one and hat – €23.50 My first festive three-piece set – €19.50

infant cereals Cerelac Infant Cereals provide the essential nutrients for your infant. They provide infants who have small stomach capacity with nutrient dense foods, which are enriched with key vitamins and minerals, specially selected to reduce the risk of micro-nutrient deficiencies and thus promote healthy growth and development.

stylish and fun fashion

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Next clothing offers a mix of vibrant tones, fun prints and beautiful attention to detail. There are stylish girls’ outfit ideas for any occasion, such as the tartan girls’ dresses, festive print tops and embroidered jeans, which look gorgeous worn with colourful girls’ pumps. The older boys’ clothing ranges from stylish party wear, laid-back looks and casuals inspired by the latest trends. Laid-back tees and casual boys’ shirts look cool when layered up, or mix and match urban-inspired casuals found in the Urban Camo range.

Next has the ultimate Christmas gifts, from fun nightwear and cool stocking fillers to cosy clothing and novelty gift ideas.

Next stores in Sliema, at Pama Shopping Mall Mosta and Akardia, Gozo, are open from Monday to Sunday throughout the month of December.

10% off at early learning centre This coupon is to be redeemed by December 12, 2017.

It is not valid with any other offer.

Online coupon code: xmas17 Kindly present this voucher to the cashier prior to payment. E-mail: info@elctoysmalta.com Web: www.elctoysmalta.com

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PROdUCTS & SERVICES

out and about

the Christmas season at Valletta Waterfront Valletta Waterfront, located in the scenic Grand Harbour, combines food, retail and entertainment outlets within a maritime hub. The small chapel of the Flight to Egypt by the Holy Family further creates a unique ‘village’ ambience. as from december 1, Valletta Waterfront takes on a Christmas village feel with a mix of décor, music, food and activities related to this magical time. a Christmas tree of a height of over 10 metres will be set up in the central part of the promenade. a variety of free activities are planned underneath the tree and along the whole area, including Christmas bands, children choirs, cribs, stalls and more. Santa will be in his workshop and together with his helpers will be available for photo opportunities. as regards the rest of the year, there will be free children’s entertainment on weekends and public holidays. Free activities include balloon modelling, face painting, crafts, games, colouring-ins, meet and greets with all-time favourite characters, puppet shows, bouncy castles and more. Season’s specials are planned with an antlers’ Toss, Mind the Baubles, Innaxxra, Make Your Own Flying Snowflake and more.

The Valletta Waterfront offers inside seating and heated outside areas for the colder days.

Visit www.vallettawaterfront.com/christmas for more information.

bouncing for fun Velocity has successfully brought its concept from the UK to Malta. Velocity Malta, located in Tarxien, is the country’s first and only trampoline park.

Besides trampolines, the park also includes a big airbag, jousting, interactive boards, total wipeout, tumbletrack and a foam pit, meaning the whole family can have endless fun.

Thousands have already visited the park and its management are working very closely with schools. The health benefits of trampolining are huge: studies by nasa scientists show that rebounding on a trampoline is 68 per cent more effective than jogging and yet requires less effort. One can burn up to 1,000 calories an hour.

In-house personal trainers lead various classes throughout the week. Velocity is also set to launch children’s exercise classes where they will be able to stay fit while having fun.

The premises also attract many gymnasts as there is no other local facility offering the same amount of trampolines.

Velocity offers various birthday party options, with dedicated party rooms decorated in a fun and vibrant way with disco lights. There are also some bespoke options for teenagers who can organise disco parties. There is even a disco night called ‘Club

50 CHiLd nOVEMBER 2017

Velocity’ every Friday night from 8pm where one can bounce and dance to the top tunes by a resident deejay.

Parents can relax at a large cafeteria on the premises while the children have fun.

Velocity Malta, located at 138, Triq-il Knisja, Tarxien, is open seven days a week.

Find out more at www.velocitygb.com or call 2010 6346.

Rachael Tedesco Triccas in the title role in Cinderella.

Photo: Sebio Aquilina

A perfect gift for your family this Christmas From the tree to the presents, to the roast dinner surrounded by our loved ones, Christmas has plenty of traditions designed to bring the whole family together. Even so, nothing completes the magic of the festive season quite like a big group outing to see the pantomime…

In fact, amid the hustle and bustle of the Christmas rush, there’s no better way to get out of the house and distract everyone from their mobile, computer or television screens, and enjoy some real quality time together as a family.

And it’s not difficult to see why! The panto has long been the ultimate form of holiday entertainment, to delight young and old as the show traditionally brings to life a fairy tale, with an easy-to-follow story all wrapped up with spectacular music, a magnificent set, breathtaking costumes and a variety of fun characters that adults and children will enjoy cheering on, or booing and hissing at!

This year, the MADC panto promises nothing less than all that and more… With the magical tale of Cinderella as its pitch, the MADC panto, which is being directed by Chris Gatt and was adapted

by Marylu Coppini, will feature a glittering cast of local performers and not one, but two panto dames, played by panto stalwarts Jean Pierre Busuttil and Michael Mangion.

Joining them will be Rachael Tedesco Triccas as Cinderella, Sandie Von Brockdorff as the Prince, Francesca Briffa as the Fairy Godmother and Isabel Warrington as Cinderella’s evil stepmother, Baroness Kifuza, among many other known faces.

If your little ones are celebrating their birthday this festive season, they can expect an extra special treat during the show. All parents or guardians need to do is to let MADC know in advance by e-mailing info@madc.com.mt.

As always, there are also many ticket options to make your family trip to see MADC’s Cinderella even more special. All tickets for the first two performances are offered at a specially reduced rate, while children aged between three and 11 have a discounted rate for all performances, and those aged two and under can enter for free.

MADC’s Cinderella will kick off on Friday, December 22, at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali, and will have daily matinee and evening performances that will continue through to Tuesday, January 2, with the exception of December 24, 25, 31 and January 1.

To book, simply go to www.madc.com.mt or send an e-mail to bookings@madc.com.mt.