Forgiveness is an important value that helps our children grow into kind and understanding individuals. In South Africa, where we have a beautiful mix of cultures and traditions, teaching forgiveness from a young age can help create a community where everyone feels loved and accepted. What is forgiveness? Forgiveness means letting go of hurt feelings […]
Forgiveness: A gentle guide for young hearts Read More »
“Will my child be able to keep up in class? Will they make friends? Will they be able to go without me for a longer school day? Will they enjoy school and feel confident to try new things?” These are some of the questions parents may have as their children near school-going age. Starting ‘big
Is my child ready to start primary school? Read More »
As the prevalence of autism diagnoses increases, Dr Nerica Ramsundhar, a neurodevelopment paediatrician practising at Netcare St Augustine’s Hospital in Durban, sheds light on the signs and symptoms that parents should be on the lookout for. “Just in the last five or six years, we have seen the numbers of those diagnosed with autism go
Helping parents better understand children on the spectrum and their needs Read More »
During the first three months, babies establish a rhythm of feeding, wakefulness and sleep. Then, at around three to four months, babies’ circadian rhythms begin to mature. According to Dr Alison Bentley, Restonic sleep expert, this is often when paediatric sleep problems arise. Parents may end up relying on ‘sleep crutches’ to get their baby
Paediatric sleep problems: Dealing with sleep crutches Read More »
A purpose-built and research-based gamified experience is using the metasphere and its captive younger audiences to enable under 18s to be alcohol-free and to help their peers avoid the threat presented by underage consumption of alcoholic beverages. Statistics suggest that nearly half (49.2%) of South African high school students have consumed alcohol. Aware.org is now stepping up
A game that’s standing up to underage drinking Read More »
Parents, educators and caregivers alike are intimately familiar with the term “terrible two’s”. It’s a phrase that often evokes images of tantrums, defiance and exasperated parents. However, what if we reframed this perspective? What if we viewed the two’s not as a period of turmoil but as a pivotal stage of development filled with opportunities
Unlocking the Terrible Two’s: Navigating the journey of autonomy and exploration Read More »
Nurturing resilience in young children is paramount for their growth and development in a country and world filled with challenges. Ursula Assis, country director of Dibber International Preschools, sheds light on this crucial aspect of parenting, teaching and early childhood education and development. As she explains, resilience refers to a child’s ability to respond positively to adverse events.
Fostering resilience in young children is vital to their healthy development Read More »
In the delicate balance of parenting, a fine line exists between nurturing and hovering too closely. Helicopter parenting – characterised by overprotection, micromanagement and excessive involvement – while rooted in love and concern, can inadvertently hinder a child’s development. Ursula Assis, country director of Dibber International Preschools, sheds light on this and its long-term effects on
Exploring the impact of helicopter parenting Read More »
Praise is a powerful tool that can shape how a child thinks about themselves and ultimately impacts on their behaviour, motivation and self-actualisation. When used mindfully, praise can help create an affirmative, enabling learning environment and the development of a growth mindset. An education expert says it is important to understand the dynamics of effective
How to use praise to encourage and empower your children Read More »
In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the significance of teaching children about diversity and inclusion cannot be overstated. As parents, educators and caregivers, our role extends beyond mere academics to instil values that foster empathy, acceptance and appreciation for differences. Children are naturally curious and open-minded, making them receptive to embracing diversity. By
The power of inclusivity in children’s lives Read More »