Parenting & Family

With the world observing World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) on 21 March, it is a good time to demystify what parents can expect from the first few months of life if they are expecting a child with Down Syndrome. This is especially so given that there are many cultural taboos …

Teaching your kids to understand personal finances is essential to their development. The task itself is critical, but it can be challenging to know the best ways to integrate these teachings in ways that will be solidified well into adulthood. Here we discuss ways to teach your kids about personal …

Let’s face it, the things that our children watch today are a far cry from the tv programs that we watched when we were kids. Many of the programs today are fast paced and often expose children to negative influences such as violence and vulgar language. Don’t even get me …

The new academic year has begun and, after a year like 2020, it’s no wonder stress levels are already high and confidence in the 2021 school year launching without a hitch is low. As learners, you’ll need to stay flexible in your outlook. “It is more important than ever to …

Many parents face this challenge. Backtalk may be annoying and sometimes maddening, but it is a commonplace symptom of gaining independence and growing up. Kids of all ages have a formidable sense of individual power on an emotional level. As soon as they can’t get it because they are commanded …

There has been a lot of debate around small children and the role they play in the spread of Covid-19. With earlier studies suggesting that children do not contribute much to the spread of coronavirus, new studies are now showing that children could be capable of spreading infection. According to …

Having detected hearing loss in as many as six babies with 30 awaiting diagnoses in the 20 months since its introduction, the Netcare hearing screening programme for all newborn babies at Netcare maternity units countrywide, has made a meaningful difference. Ahead of World Hearing Day, which is commemorated annually on …

Many parents may wonder when the best time is to wean baby off night feedings. Babies start developing well after six months. At this age they start getting sufficient nutrition from milk and solid foods during the day for healthy development and growth.  However, if you feel comfortable to continue …

South Africa’s maths matric pass rates have declined once again, plunging the field deeper into crisis. Fixing it requires a holistic approach, including the overhaul of how schools teach this often-dreaded school subject. This is where gamification could make a substantial difference, experts say, now and in the long run. …

LAUNCHED for the month of love: The Savvy Woman’s Prenup Package: buy a prenup and get a free your divorce, if you end up needing one. A prenup involves planning ahead – for things you can predict, and things you can’t. DIYLegal, the SA company that makes it as easy as …

Breast or bottle feeding is about more than just nutrition. For you and your baby, how you’ve been feeding since birth forms an incredible bonding experience. Typically, health professionals recommend breastfeeding to be the best nutritional choice for newborns. It isn’t always possible for all women, however. You may have …

Just when you think you’ve mastered your baby’s nap schedule, it will change. In fact, your child’s daytime sleep needs and patterns will change multiple times from the newborn phase through infancy and then again into toddlerhood. Nap changes typically occur at predictable ages and stages, but of course each …

The theory of generations has been a hot topic in recent years, widely spread by marketing consultants and journalists in the global media – there are more than 700 million results in Google search for the so-called ‘generation gap’. Some surveys touch upon the evidence of generational differences, while others show the similarities of …

The release of matric results is typically a high stakes time for many students and their parents, but pandemic disruptions throughout 2020 are adding extra angst. This week, the anticipation will be over, but getting these final school marks in black and white can spiral some young South Africans, and …

One of my favourite online stores for buying things for baby is 4AKid – they offer so many things that will make your life as a mom so much easier, as well as fantastic products to keep your kids safe. They have an amazing range of products, so I highly …

As a parent to a newborn, you will probably have a hard time ensuring your baby stays asleep as long as possible. One option to help your baby sleep longer is to go for a baby sleeping bag as they maintain the same body temperature ensuring the baby does not …

Bringing a newborn home after delivery can be a daunting experience during those first few weeks. It takes a while to adjust to your new routine amidst nappy changes, feeds, and sleep deprivation. Before we share things you will need newborn baby checklist, here are five things you can do …

Amid the explosion in online or distance learning offerings at both basic, higher and further education levels following the 2020 Covid lockdowns, education experts have urged parents and prospective students to carefully consider an institution and its programmes before signing up for this mode of learning. “It is absolutely crucial …