Kids News SA Parenting Site

21 March 2012 marks the 7th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) and for the first time in 2012 this day will be officially observed by the United Nations.  For details visit the website 

Schools Short Story Competition

The Centre for Creative Arts (University of KwaZulu-Natal) will host the 15th Time of the Writer international writers’ festival from 19 to 24 March 2012. Time of the Writer invites learners from Grades 8 to 12 to submit material for the short story writing competition to be held in conjunction with the festival. Learners are invited to engage creatively with a topic of their choice. Submissions are due no later than Thursday, 1 March. Entries must be fictional stories and not critical essays. A maximum of 5 pages (preferably typed) are to be written in English, Zulu or Afrikaans. Illegible entries will not be considered. Entries may be e-mailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or faxed to 031 260 3074.

COURSES

Parents,teachers, teacher assistants, au pairs, domestics and grannies......  A workshop for YOU........ Fabulous ideas for 3 to 9 year olds. Friday 2 March 10.30 to 11.30 am or 2 to 3 pm. Sandton Library lecture roomBook asap. The language of learning. Do YOU want to support your child, your learners at school? NOT sure how? Need ideas which are light on  stress, time, cash and the environment? This workshop is for you! Successful habits = positive results. Your words = your sword! Easy, practical, fun out of the box thinking workshop. Cost R100 pp. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   Please include your name, time of workshop you wish to attend, mobile number and relevant email address. I will forward banking details for booking.  Payment secures your place.

Sands Pedegana & Michele Frew invite you to a workshop in Sunninghill. 2 mornings: 12th & 13th March 2012 or Full day: 24th March 2012. Learn:
•    About patterns & beliefs that could be limiting your dreams.
•    Basic EFT skills, to shift stress & negative thoughts.
•    How to increase your vibration, tap into your feelings & discover what you want in different areas of your life.
•    How to start a vision board.
Cost:  R1200 (book early/bring a friend & receive a discount) For more information/to book, please This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 082 786 7021

18TH ANNUAL ADHASA TEACHERS’ ADHD CONFERENCE 2012  “ADHD-FRIENDLY SCHOOLS – ACCEPTING & ACCOMMODATING  ADHD DIFFERENCES”    

An educational forum designed for teachers, practitioners, other professionals & parents. Bookings & final payments close on Monday 20th February 2012. See www.ADHASA.co.za for Registration Form SPEAKERS:  Experts in the field of ADHD, including Medical Specialists, Chemistry Professor, Psychologists, Educationists and Therapists in a variety of fields. There will be a choice of lectures to attend on the Saturday afternoon. Venue: Wits Univ Education Campus, next to Linder Auditorium Dates: 25 & 26 Feb 2012 Cost: R790 pp for 2 days Display Table: R790 for Sat & R350 for Sun (R1140 for both days)  Full time students: R390 for both days (show student card at Registration) Queries and Bookings – ADHASA National Office Tel: (011) 888-7655 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.    or visit our website

Zeal Parenting Workshop - 4 week program - 9,16,23 March and 1 Feb (4 Consecutive Thursdays) 7pm- 9pm - held at The Pretoria East Life Studio for Kids. Our parenting programmes are designed around the needs of modern-day parents and facilitate the process of them finding their OWN answers based on having Zeal for Life. Registrations close 3 February.  Tel: Michelle 079 162 6465 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Zeal Family Programme - 18,25 Feb & 3,10 Mar 9h30-12h30 - held at The Pretoria East Life Studio for Kids. Registrations close 8 February.  This programme which is aimed at Micro Zeals to Major Zeals (Reception - Grade 8) provides the foundation for a sound emotional intelligence (EQ).  The core principles of a sound EQ are to be aware of your feelings and how they influence your behaviour, actively managing your feelings to facilitate better choices, motivating yourself, choosing how you want to be and then giving of your best. Tel: Michelle 079 162 6465 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Zeal Building Blocks Workshop 11 Feb 9h00-15h00 - This workshop aims at reflecting objectively on what they have achieved so far and what they would like to achieve in future.  A realistic goal setting plan is provided that ensures movement in the right direction as well as motivation to maintain momentum. Registrations close 6 February.  Tel: Michelle 079 162 6465 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

WORKSHOPS, CAMPS & EVENTS

25 February from 8:30am to 2pm The National School of the Arts OPEN DAY 17 Hoofd Street Braamfontein Website or call Tel: 011 339 6539 Email

Bellavista Evening Talks - Tel: 011 447 4110 Venue: Bellavista School Hall Time: 19h00 - 20h00

Wednesday, 7th March 2012 DO YOU NEED HELP DEALING WITH AN ANXIOUS CHILD ? THEN JOIN US AS WE LISTEN TO DR. SANTIE VAN DER MERWE Clinical Psychologist  * How do I know if my child suffers from an anxiety disorder or a Phobia ? * What are those contributing factors that we as parents should be aware of? * What can I do to help my child? * Helpful strategies. * The role of medication and therapy.

Cost per talk: R 60.00 per person payable at the door. You do not have to make a booking. For any enquires please contact Imogan Beukes on: 011 447 4110 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

BABY BARGAINS MARKET NOT TO BE MISSED! 31 March 2012 Baby Bargains Market  Time 09h00 – 14h00  Venue 81 Pomona Road, Kempton Park, JHB. Loads of excellent quality gently-used baby & toddler goods on offer at affordable prices!! We offer a wide range of products including cots, compactums, nursery furniture, linen sets, toys, prams, strollers, car seats, feeding chairs, walking rings etc. We are very strict about the quality of the goods we sell and do not accept anything that is not in top condition! There is a lovely play area for the children with a few animals and a restaurant with the most divine food & drinks. Please note that we take cash only, however we will have internet access if you want to do a transfer. Contact phone number 0761588448 Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Website

Join Tots n Pots @ Norscot Manor, Fourways. Friday, 17th February 2012 from 14:30 – 15:45. Kids must be 4 yrs plus. Cost is R85. On the menu… absolutely divine apricot muffins. Kids will also prepare an edible crafts and get into some messy fun. Contact Jotika on  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / 0832655515 to find out more about the school’s programme or plan your child’s next Birthday party!

HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

Kids Cooking – Have your children develop a love of Cooking from a young age!  They will learn about kitchen safety, cooking terms, measurement, hygiene and nutrition, as we cook up a storm under the guidance of our of experts. Dates – 2, 3 & 5 April or 10, 11 & 13 April or 20, 23, 24 April 2012 from 8am to 2pm Cost - R590

Fun First Aid – Dangers in the home and around us will be discussed, as well as dealing with and calling the Emergency Services; Basic CPR and Choking; Shock, Bleeding and Injuries (bandaging different types of fake wounds); Burns and broken bones (splinting of legs and arms); Stretcher building and races; Games. Date – 16th April 2012 from 8am to 2pm Cost – R275

Junior Ranger – We will be exploring various aspects of bush life, such as hurting and helping plants; investigating snakes, spiders, scorpions, insects and birds; spotting animals; using a compass; avoiding and dealing with bites and stings. here will be games to play, and fun is guaranteed !!!
Date – 19th April 2012 from 8am to 2pm Cost – R275

Included in these programmes: Manual and certificate, use of the equipment, cool drinks and snacks. Tel - 011 447 5517or 083 525 4992 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our Website. Address - 235 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North, Johannesburg

Villa Nova being the host of the Kidz Fishing Camp which is nestled on the open plains of the VAAL RIVER between Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp provides enjoyable, safe and comfortable accommodation in chalets AND a fishing adventure of a lifetime. This all brings you Closer to nature and its extraordinary beauty.Kidz Fishing camp gives the opportunity to children between the ages of 7 and 17 to experience an exciting and outdoor adventure of what it takes to become a Fisherman. Call 011 434 4755 or Cell- 083 610 2911 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Visit our website

Keep checking the Holiday Events page for more info

VALENTINES SPECIALS

Valentine's Candle Run - Randburg Central Sports Complex - A little something different for Valentines this year? Try a run at night with the Randburg Harriers. Entries close 7th.  10 February at 7pm - R26 to R46. Tel: 011 792 7003 for more info.

AMANZINGWE LODGE VALENTINES Dinner! 14th February 2012 (Magaliesburg)
Reserve a table and enjoy a lovely Romantic evening – dinner in the Impala Restaurant - R350-00 per couple – including Welcoming drinks, Ladies gift and 3 course set menu
Or
A Dinner, Bed and Breakfast package at only R950-00 per couple – including Luxury Accommodation, Welcoming drinks, Ladies gift, 3 course set menu and breakfast
Contact Jeanine at 012 205 8600

SPARKLING WATERS HOTEL AND SPA Valentine Special
A romantic breakaway for couples, available February 2012.
This package includes the use of the indoor heated pool and sundeck, Jacuzzi sessions with a bottle of champagne, Refreshing tropical full body massage, Rosemary infused head massage, Pamper spa pedicure. 3 Hours - R 800 per person - gift vouchers available. Bookings essential
Tel: 014 535 0000/6

BUDMARSH COUNTRY LODGE A Romantic Valentines Weekend
10-13 February 2011 - Why squash in a Valentines dinner in the middle of a busy week with 100 other things on your mind, when you can have a whole romantic weekend of focusing on your valentine, celebrating love. Two night stays include 6 course dinners, breakfasts, as well as chocolate coated strawberries and champagne in your room on arrival. Accommodation for your third night is free, with dinner and breakfast optional @ R290/person and R125/person respectively.
Valentines Sunday Lunch
If your time does not allow you to take a weekend break, spoil your loved one with a relaxing afternoon for the two of you and enjoy our Valentines Sunday Lunchon 12 February @ R290/person. Remember, booking is essential. Contact Details: Telephone: 011 782 1800 

FAMILY EVENTS - JOHANNESBURG

Sandton City SHopping Mall

Kombatei and Max the Lion  Paddle Pop brings the Kombatei online game and Max the Lion to life from the 14 – 20 February Fountain Court, and makes the game real for kids and parents alike. The Fountain Court will host a larger-than-life Kombatei computer game, which will be linked to a national game, where kids can play against each other via the use of kinetic motion controls (Xbox 360 and PS3). Shoppers will be required to present their Paddle Pop stick with the secret code on it to enter the arena and challenge.

3 March - CANSA Shavathon. Show you care and get down to Sandton City to have your hair shaved or sprayed in the 9th Annual Cansa Shavathon, which raises much needed funds and awareness for Cancer education and prevention initiatives.

3 March - Brain of 702 final. The popular Talk Radio 702 quiz, The Brain of 702, is already in full swing and listeners across Gauteng are testing their  general knowledge alongside the on-air contestants. Join your favourite 702 presenters at the final, where you can play a round and stand a chance to participate in the live semi-final or just watch as the ultimate Brain of Joburg will be crowned.

The Magaliesberg Canopy Tour takes you on a journey through the ecology and geology of one of the oldest mountain ranges at the world - estimated to be 2,500 million years old. Eleven platforms have been built against the cliff and rock faces of the spectacular Ysterhout Kloof, a beautiful gorge carved out of the mountainside, and are joined by long steel cables that you slide along to reach the next platform. Much like a "foefie" slide, the canopy tour essentially involves zigzagging down the kloof while stopping at each platform to admire the expansive views and surrounding ecology. Tel: 014 535 0150 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website

Hobby-X Jo'burg 2012 Coca-Cola Dome, Northgate -  Beading, mosaic any hobby you can think of.  1 - 4 March.  Price : R50 Adults, R20 children(6-12). Thu & Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 9am-5pm.

VASTRAP FEES - KUMHO 4x4 Fun Day - Krugersdorp Game Reserve 11 February- Mountain Biking Race, Exhibtions/Displays -Activities for kids -Horse Riding -Petting area.
R20 per Adult and R10 per child entrance. To participate in the 4x4 event R200 per vehicle.
Tel: 011 951 5900

Zoo Walks - The Zoo hosts different walks with different themes. Frog Walk, Wattle Crane Walk, Vulture Walk, Chimp Walk and more. Johannesburg Zoo, Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkview
Date 26 February R40. 07h00 for 07h30. Tel: 011 646 2000 ext 213.

Rotary River Festival - This year the Annual River Festival offers International flavour with cuisine, music and dance from all over the world. Venue Stonehaven on Vaal.  3 March Price : R 20.00 - R 100.00. Tel: 016982295.

ADULTS ONLY - MYSTERY GHOST BUS TOUR  - Joburg - Groups of 30 or more - Any Night. Teambuilding, Birthdays, Bachelors, Bachelorettes, Clubs  Try the EVP on our website Bookings through Computicket or Checkers/Shoprite

Tots n Pots Randburg – weekly classes available call Tilana 0823044491 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Lakeside Mall - Craft Evenings - Kids join us Friday & Saturday nights create your a masterpiece on canvas /plates while Mom & Dad relax at a restaurants. Tom Jones Street, Benoni from 6pm - 8pm. Tel: Carolynn on 011 427 1801.

MORE WORKSHOPS & COURSES... click here

CRAFT MARKETS, FAIRS, FUN THINGS TO DO and OUTINGS ... READ MORE

Win a free entry to Yeesh! - find out how

Yeesh! Fun for kids in Woodmead and Bryanston - We have a giant play structure, slides, ball ponds, jumping castles and much, much more.  Also a Paint Pot corner for kids to do arts and crafts, paint t-shirts and ceramics. A great coffee bar for parents and carers to relax in whilst your kids burn off all their energy. Open 9am – 5pm. Entry fee R45 per child per hour. Bryanston:  5 Main Road, 011 463 5847, Woodmead: Woodmead Commercial Park, Waterval Crescent (011) 656 9669 Visit our website

Serendipity (Rosebank, Johannesburg) - a wonderful family venue situated in a lovely, leafy garden. Open Tuesdays to Fridays 9h00 to 17h00 and Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 8h00 to 17h00. Our facilities include climbing frames, slides, swings and ball ponds. Entertainment includes arts and crafts, cupcake decorating and more. Treat the family and enjoy a delectable light meal in a relaxing garden environment. We have a well stocked gift shop with children’s toys, mobiles and goods for mums too! Serendipity is also a superb venue for tailor-made children’s parties! Situated 48 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg 011 447 7386 (phone and fax) This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Serendipity NEW STORY TIME - Story-time at Serendipity - Tuesday mornings at 11am for toddlers and pre-schoolers and? Wednesday afternoons at 4pm for ages 2 to 4 and 4.15pm for ages 5 onwards.  Contact (011) 447 7386 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Visit our website 48 Keyes Avenue, Rosebank

Win a free entry for 2 kids and 2 adults to Serendipity and some liquid refreshments - Enter the Competition

Craighall River Market- Saturdays 08h30 - 13h00 Art, craft, organic produce, deli items, books, clothing, bird feeders, jewellery, pony rides, bric-a-brac, tearoom and more ! WHEN ? 2nd Saturday of each month, 08h30 - 13h00. WHERE? Colourful Splendour Nursery Marlborough Avenue, Craighall Park. Read more...

Walkerville Farmer's Market - Open every Saturday 9 - 3 pm. Free Entry for Visitors. Telephone:  011 949 4266 or 079 076  7680.  Alternatively you can This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Organic and fresh produce markets strive towards wholeness and goodness.  Products at such markets tend to be of a higher quality and there is an abundance of hand-crafted goods.

Mini Steam Trains Open Day  - Florida Park North West Johannesburg, Open from 9:30am to 5:00 pm. Read more...

Bryanston Organic & Natural Market - Open this Thursday and Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm.  Read more...

HEIA SAFARI RANCH - the ideal family getaway. Read more...

Midrand Urban Market - Every Saturday Great food, deli and craft traders. No charge. 9:00 - 14:00 Read more...

Blubird Wholefood Market - 'UNITED FLAVOURS OF NATIONS.' The Food Market to be at every Sunday, between 9.00-2.00pm at the blubird Shopping Centre. All produce is freshly prepared from the most natural of ingredients. No preservatives, food colourings, no additives. An incredible journey of tastes awaits you, from Gourmet to Artisanal fare, to food for toddlers. See you on Sunday...... Read more

Drakes Farmyard - Linbro Park (E Jhb) Open for day visitors every Monday

Annalize's Kinderland Holiday Fun Club (Gauteng, Equestria - Pretoria East) -Annalize Louw Cell:  0826801368 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. see full holiday programme

Night tours at the National Zoo (Pretoria) Treat your family to an exciting adventure. Go on a night tour and explore the fascinating world of our nocturnal animals. Tours start promptly at 18:30 from the Zoo’s main entrance. Read more...

Mystic Monkeys & Feathers hosts one of South Africa's largest private primate collections of 38 species, in addition to a large number of beautiful, exotic birds. Chimpanzee and White-Handed Gibbons, Cheetahs, White Lions and Tigers. Mystic Monkeys & Feathers Wildlife Park is open 365 days a year from 9am till 4pm, 85km north of Pretoria a mere 45 minutes drive. This pristine park will offer visitors an amazing animal adventure for young and old. Enjoy a mouth-watering meal at our Tshukudu Lodge Restaurant or get excellent value on our Sunday Buffet Lunch. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.
For more details visit our website

Kidz Galore - A party venue that is safe for children and affordable for parents. Read more

Adventure Golf - Great putt-putt range in a fantastic setting. Read more

Thrashers Skate Park Pretoria - Extremely happening skateboard park for cool kids. Read more

Model Train Rides for kids (Pretoria) - Open on Sundays from 9.30 until 4pm. Bring the kids and ride the model trains. Entrance is only R5 and train rides are R5 per person. Contact us to book your child's birthday parties. Kwikkie Cresent Centurion.

Safari Garden Centre Fresh air, lots to see and good clean fun is why kids want to visit Safari every week. Pony rides and rides on the Safari Fun Train is very popular on weekends and public holidays.  A huge jungle gym and enclosed play area is available where kids can also see marmoset monkeys, pot bellied pigs, dwarf mountain goats, rabbits and other animals. C/o Lynnwood Road and Rubida Street, The Willows Pretoria East Tel: 012 807-0009

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