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EVERYTHING PARENTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NOVALAC JUNIOR VANILLA GROWING-UP MILK
Pre-schooler FeedingPre-schoolers

Everything Parents Need To Know About Novalac Junior Vanilla Growing-Up Milk

by Novalac Junior Vanilla
written by Novalac Junior Vanilla

Parents believe it’s one of their most nurturing responsibilities to provide their children with the best nutrition possible. However, when your little one prefers only certain foods and turns mealtimes into a challenge, making sure they receive all the essential nutrients can become a daily concern. Enter Novalac Junior Vanilla - a growing-up milk designed specifically for children aged three and above, offering a tasty and nutritious solution to bridge those dietary gaps.

A taste kids love with all the micronutrients

Novalac Junior Vanilla is a no added sugar, vanilla-flavoured nutritional drink crafted to support your child’s growth and development. Recognising that children can be selective eaters, this formula is enriched with vital micronutrients to complement their daily diet:

  • Vitamin A: Represented by the playful bush baby on the packaging, this vitamin supports visual development, ensuring your child’s eyes remain healthy as they explore the world.
  • Vitamin C: Symbolised by an energetic cat, vitamin C boosts the immune system, helping your child fend off common illnesses and stay active.
  • Calcium: Depicted by a friendly hippo, calcium is essential for building strong bones and teeth, laying the foundation for your child’s physical activities.
  • Iron: Illustrated by a cute Loch Ness monster, iron plays a crucial role in brain development and can improve appetite, supporting overall growth.

YOU MUST CHECK OUT: Novalac Junior Vanilla – the yummy and nutritional drink for children three years and older

How it’s made: Behind the scenes

As a curious parent, you may wonder how Novalac Junior Vanilla is made. It’s crafted from cow’s milk — carefully processed and spray-dried to turn the milk into a smooth, easy-to-mix powder. This process ensures the formula stays packed with nutrients while remaining gentle on little tummies.

Novalac Junior follows strict European production standards – some of the toughest in the world – ensuring no added sugar and high-quality ingredients that meet the nutritional needs of growing children. It is also Halaal certified making it suitable for families observing Halaal dietary guidelines.

Their iconic tins aren’t just sturdy — they’re designed to be reusable, making it easier for families to repurpose them for playtime or home organisation. Here are some creative ways to give the Novalac Junior Vanilla tin a second life:

  • Storage Solution for Creative Play: Use it to store crayons, small toys, or craft supplies, keeping your child’s play area organised.
  • Storage Solutions for the Kitchen: Keep a collection of tins and use them to store flour, pasta, maize meal, tea, coffee and other ingredients that need storing in a clean and well-sealed container.
  • DIY Musical Instrument: Fill the tin with pasta, beans and rice, secure the lid, and let your child explore rhythms and sounds.

Fun and engaging packaging

Novalac Junior Vanilla’s thoughtfully designed packaging features the most fun and relatable animal characters, each associated with a specific nutrient. This not only makes the product visually appealing to children but also provides an excellent opportunity for parents to engage in conversations about healthy eating habits. Discussing the “bush baby” for better eyesight or the “hippo” for strong bones can make nutrition interesting and practical for your child.

DON’T MISS: Understanding Nutritional Labels On Products And Choosing The Right Solution For Your Little Ones Food Habits

Versatility in everyday use

While the brand also offers a unique formula that combines banana and apple fruit puree, catering to children who prefer fruity flavours, the introduction of a more neutral-tasting vanilla flavour means the formula can be used in various ways. So, beyond Novalac Junior Vanilla being a nutritious drink, it pleases the young tastebuds of selective eaters as well as being extremely versatile, for example:

  • Quick Mix: Easily prepare it as a standalone drink by mixing the powder with water, offering a convenient option for busy mornings or snack times.
  • Get Creative: Incorporate the powder into various recipes to enhance their nutritional value. Add it to smoothies, oatmeal, soups or even pancake and cake batter to give your child’s favourite foods a healthy boost.

ALSO READ: Mindfully Foster Your Child’s Relationship With Healthy Food

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Where to find Novalac Junior Vanilla

The nutritious growing-up milk is available at leading pharmacies and retail stores across South Africa. You can also purchase it online through various e-commerce platforms, ensuring convenient access to Novalac Junior Vanilla.

Supporting your selective eater

Navigating the challenges of a child who prefers certain foods can be stressful, but with Novalac Junior Vanilla, you have a reliable ally. This growing-up milk not only provides essential nutrients to support your child’s development, but they also get to enjoy the delicious vanilla flavour which is also gentle on their tastebuds. Incorporating Novalac Junior Vanilla into your child’s daily routine can help alleviate the worry of nutritional gaps, allowing you to focus on enjoying mealtimes together.

BONUS READ: Help! My Child Only Wants To Eat Yoghurt! Why, What And How

Remember, every child’s eating habits are unique, and it’s essential to approach mealtime with patience and creativity. Offering a variety of foods alongside Novalac Junior Vanilla can encourage a more balanced diet and help your child develop healthy eating patterns that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Note: Before introducing any new supplement into your child’s diet, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with their specific nutritional needs.

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Managing vaccination pain in babies and children
Baby HealthBabies

Managing vaccination pain in babies and children

by Panado
written by Panado

Vaccinations are a part of growing up, but they needn’t be upsetting to your child with good pain management.

From birth, babies are required to tolerate needles as part of their medical care. In particular, vaccine injections can cause pain, anxiety and fear in babies and children – and in their parents! This pain may lead to anxiety in the future, and even develop into needle phobias and avoidance of healthcare in some cases.1,3

The magnitude of pain and distress with vaccination 

By vaccinating your child, you become part of a global effort to rid the world of the devastating childhood diseases that were common in previous generations.2

While vaccinations are essential for children’s health, vaccine injections are considered to be one of the most common sources of pain in childhood, given that they are repeatedly administered to almost all children throughout infancy, childhood and adolescence.1

Ways to manage vaccination pain 

Managing vaccination pain aims to prevent children from developing a fear of needles as a result of unmitigated pain and distress during vaccinations.3

Over-the-counter pain medications

Over-the-counter or non-prescription pain medications, such as paracetamol, can be helpful in alleviating the pain and fever that may be associated with childhood vaccinations.4

Children need to take a lower dose than adults, depending on their age and sometimes, weight. Ask your doctor or a pharmacist for advice if your child is small or big for their age and you’re not sure how much to give. Follow the dosage instructions exactly according to the package insert; never exceed the dosage amount, nor the maximum amount to be given in 24 hours.4

Panado, which has paracetamol as its main ingredient, has a range of products specially formulated for children. Use the table below to choose an appropriate product for your child’s age.

Panado® Products by Age

Suitable Panado® Products According to Age

Panado® Formulation From 0+ Months From 3 Months From 6 Years From 9 Years From 12 Years Adults
Panado® Paediatric Syrup Alcohol & Sugar Free - Peppermint flavour ✔
Panado® Paediatric Syrup - Peppermint flavour ✔
Panado® Paediatric Syrup Strawberry ✔
Panado® Paediatric Syrup 5 mL Sachet - Peppermint flavour ✔
Panado® Infant Drops ✔
Panado® Tablets ✔✔✔✔
Panado® Effervescent ✔✔✔✔
Panado® Capsules ✔✔✔

Suitable Panado products according to age 5-12 

Topical anaesthetics applied directly to the skin at the vaccination site can be used to reduce pain in vaccination injections as a standard measure for children. This type of anaesthetic is widely used in medical and surgical procedures as well as prior to vaccination to lessen needle pain. They cause superficial loss of pain sensation after direct application.3,13

If you have any concerns about how much pain your child is in, contact your doctor straight away. Don’t give your child pain medications for longer than a couple of days without speaking to a doctor.4

References 

  1. Abuelkheir M et EMLA cream: A pain-relieving strategy for childhood vaccination. Journal of International Medical Research 2014; 42(2): 329-336. DOI 10.1177/0300060513509473. Accessed 17 September 2024 Available from: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0300060513509473?url_ver=Z39.88- 2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed
  2. Adu-Gyamfi C et National Institute for Communicable Diseases. Centre for Vaccines and Immunology. Vaccine information for parents and caregivers. November 2016. Accessed 17 September 2024 Available from: https://www.nicd.ac.za/wp- content/uploads/2017/08/NICD_Vaccine_Booklet_D132_FINAL.pdf.
  3. Taddio A et Reducing pain during vaccine injections: clinical practice guideline. CMAJ 2015; 187(13); 975-982. DOI 10.1503/CMAJ.150391. Accessed 17 September 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4577344/
  4. How and when to give paracetamol for children [Internet]. July 2022. Accessed 17 September 2024. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paracetamol-for-children/how- and-when-to-give-paracetamol-for-children.
  5. Panado® Tablets approved professional information, July
  6. Panado® Capsules approved professional information, July
  7. Panado® Effervescent (Tablets) approved professional information, July
  8. Panado® Paediatric Syrup approved professional information, May
  9. Panado® Paediatric Syrup Alcohol and Sugar Free approved professional information, May
  10. Panado® Infant Drops (Drops) professional information, August
  11. Panado® Paediatric Syrup Strawberry approved professional information, March
  12. Panado® Paediatric Alcohol Free – Grape Flavour approved professional information, October
  13. Kumar M et al. Topical anesthesia. Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology 2015; 31(4): 450-456. DOI 4103/0970-9185.169049. Accessed 17 September 2024. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/joacp/Fulltext/2015/31040/Topical_anesthesia.3.aspx

CONTAINS PARACETAMOL

Panado® is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of mild-to-moderate pain and fever. Refer to Professional Information / Patient Information Leaflet for full dosage and directions for use. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Do not use for more than 10 days without consulting your doctor. KEEP ALL MEDICINES OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. PANADO® PAEDIATRIC SYRUP 5ml Sachets are for single use only. Always administer using a medicine measure or a syringe. Discard remaining contents of sachet after administration of the correct dosage. S0 (Pack sizes of <25 tablets) S1 (Pack sizes of ≥ 25 tablets) Panado® Tablets. Each tablet contains Paracetamol 500 mg.

Reg. No.: B/2.8/858. (PI 07/2016). S0 Panado® Effervescent Tablets. Each tablet contains Paracetamol 500 mg. Reg. No. V/2.7/219. (PI 07/2016). S0 (Pack sizes of <25 capsules) S1 (Pack sizes of ≥ 25 capsules) Panado® Capsules. Each capsule contains Paracetamol 500 mg. Reg. No. S/2.8/57. (PI 07/2016).  S0 Panado® Paediatric Syrup Strawberry. Each 5 ml syrup contains 120 mg Paracetamol. Reg. No. 35/2.7/0112. (PI 03/2002). S0 Panado® Paediatric Alcohol Free – Grape Flavour Syrup. Each 5 ml syrup contains Paracetamol 120 mg. Reg. No. 50/2.7/1083. (PI 10/2022). S0 Panado® Paediatric Syrup. Each 5ml syrup contains Paracetamol 120 mg. Reg. No.

B/2.7/1143. (PI 05/2022). S0 Panado® Paediatric Syrup Alcohol and Sugar Free. Each 5 ml syrup contains Paracetamol 120 mg. Reg. No. V/2.8/208. (PI 05/2022) S0 Panado® Infant Drops. Each 0,6 ml contains Paracetamol 60 mg. Reg. No. V/2.7/209. (PI 08/1990). For full prescribing information refer to the Professional Information approved by SAHPRA.

Adcock Ingram Limited. Co. Reg. No. 1949/034385/06. Private Bag X69, Bryanston, 2021, South Africa. Customer care: 0860 ADCOCK/ 232625. www.adcock.com 202409178240 September 2024

CHECK OUT: Syrup vs Suspension: What Parents Need to Know About Pain Medication

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ADHD Myth Busters: The Facts Behind the Condition
Children's HealthExpertsPre-schoolers

Expert ADHD Myth Busters: The Facts Behind the Condition

by Dr Maraschin, expert paediatrician
written by Dr Maraschin, expert paediatrician

If you’ve ever heard someone say “ADHD is just an excuse” or “kids grow out of it,” you’ve encountered some of the many myths surrounding this condition. That’s why we’ve put together this essential list of ADHD myth busters—to separate fact from fiction. With more children and adults being diagnosed each year, understanding what ADHD really is has never been more important. These ADHD myth busters will help you challenge stigma, support your loved ones, and see the condition through a more informed lens. Written by Dr Maraschin, expert Paediatrician.

Mention the word ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) around the table at a family gathering, and you’re likely to hear many, many opinions about the existence and treatment of the condition. This is certainly to the dismay of many academics. Over the last couple of decades, a significant amount of misinformation has been circulated. As a result, many people have become sceptical about the existence of ADHD — and even more so about its medical management.

With all this misinformation, parents who find themselves with a child struggling with inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity often feel completely overwhelmed as they try to figure out what they should be focusing on to help their child.

I always feel that understanding what we are talking about is a good place to start. Let’s define ADHD, tackle a few common myths, and provide some tangible facts.

What is the academic definition of ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent condition caused by neurobiological variations in the brain. These variations disrupt brain development, making children with ADHD more likely to demonstrate inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, distractibility, disorganisation, and poor concentration.

It is a common condition encountered in child and adolescent psychiatry, affecting between 5% and 10% of South African children. Sadly, a more recent study indicated that ADHD-related symptoms may affect as many as 25% of South African children.

It is important to understand that a child with ADHD tries extremely hard to concentrate and manage their impulses — but this is almost impossible. A child making all this effort but still finding themselves in trouble for interrupting, being disruptive, and performing poorly academically is likely to become extremely anxious and even depressed.

ALSO READ: Decoding ADHD: What it is, how to diagnose it & how to treat it

Myths Surrounding ADHD

As mentioned in the introduction, there are many misconceptions surrounding ADHD. In fact, there are so many that in 2021, the World Federation of ADHD released a statement addressing 208 misconceptions and offering evidence-based conclusions on the disorder. (Source)

I’m not going to cover all 208 myths — but here are eight of the big ones.

1. ADHD isn’t a real medical condition

This is a dangerous myth for two reasons. Firstly, it implies the sufferer has control over the condition, and secondly, that there are no medical techniques to diagnose or treat ADHD.

Truth: ADHD has a hereditary component, with one in four children having a parent who has it. Technically, it is coded on specific chromosomes. In certain cases, brain imaging techniques reveal distinct variations in brain development between children with and without ADHD.

Diagnosis should only be made by a psychiatrist, neurologist, or paediatrician trained in this field. It involves a clinical examination (to rule out other conditions) and psychological assessments (including observer reports, developmental and psychiatric history).

A proper ADHD diagnosis meets the criteria for validity as a mental disorder, and well-trained doctors across various settings and cultures agree on the defined diagnostic criteria.

2. ADHD is caused by bad parenting

What a heavy burden to place on a parent. This cruel myth implies that parents are to blame, and that with the “right” discipline, the condition would disappear.

Truth: ADHD stems from differences in brain development — not discipline styles or parenting methods. That said, parents can be taught strategies to help children manage symptoms. Behavioural Parent Training (BPT) is one of the most effective methods.

3. We never had children with ADHD “in our day”

A common comment made by well-meaning grannies or those with little understanding of ADHD.

Truth: ADHD has been described for centuries. While it may not have been called ADHD, historical reports describe symptoms consistent with the disorder. In 1775, a German physician, Melchior Weikman, published the first textbook description of what we now recognise as ADHD. This is not a “new” disorder.

4. ADHD medications lead to drug abuse

Many parents fear that stimulant medications are “gateway drugs” that increase the likelihood of future addiction.

Truth: Untreated ADHD can have a major impact on a child’s future. Children with ADHD are more likely to experience learning difficulties, poor self-esteem, peer rejection, aggression, risky behaviour and injuries. These challenges — not the medication — are linked to substance abuse.

Research shows that ADHD sufferers are three times more likely to be nicotine-dependent and 50% more likely to develop substance use habits. It’s the disorder, not the treatment, that increases the risk. Treatment actually reduces the risk of substance abuse by helping children manage symptoms.

5. ADHD is a learning difficulty

This myth suggests that with the right remedial intervention, a child can “recover”.

Truth: ADHD is not a learning disability — it’s a psychiatric condition. However, ADHD symptoms often interfere with learning. Children may struggle with instruction, staying on task, and managing time. While ADHD is separate from learning disabilities like dyslexia or dyscalculia, the conditions can co-exist.

6. Only boys suffer from ADHD

This always makes me think of the old rhyme: “Little girls are made of sugar and spice…”

Truth: ADHD is diagnosed more often in boys — but not because it only affects boys. Boys tend to show more outwardly disruptive behaviours, while girls are more likely to be inattentive, daydreamy, or quietly distracted. As a result, girls are often underdiagnosed.

7. Children outgrow ADHD

“He’s just being a boy,” or “she’s just a dreamer” — sound familiar?

Truth: ADHD is a psychiatric condition. Symptoms may diminish over time, but this is usually due to the development of coping strategies. With support and treatment, many children learn to manage their symptoms better — but that doesn’t mean they have outgrown the disorder.

8. Children with ADHD can’t focus on anything

Parents often say, “But he can play video games for hours!”

Truth: Children with ADHD can concentrate — if the activity is stimulating or highly rewarding. The difficulty lies in directing attention to less exciting, but necessary tasks, like schoolwork. These children may become hyper-focused on one activity, to the exclusion of everything else.

CHECK OUT: ADHD Brain vs ‘Normal’ Brain: Key Differences Explained

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent condition caused by neurobiological variations in the brain. These variations disrupt brain development, making children with ADHD more likely to demonstrate inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, distractibility, disorganisation, and poor concentration.

Conclusion

I’ve chosen to focus on just 8 of the 208 myths surrounding ADHD for one reason: these myths hurt the very children we’re trying to help. They increase stigma, undermine medical professionals, and delay or prevent treatment. And the impact on families and children can be devastating.

Resources:

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Little People and Toy Library Association of South Africa invest in ECD Learning Nation Wide
In The NewsLifestyle

Little People and Toy Library Association of South Africa invest in ECD Learning Nation Wide

by BabyYumYum
written by BabyYumYum

Play is more than fun—it’s a vital part of learning. That’s why the Toy Library Association of South Africa ECD Learning initiative, in partnership with Little People SA, is making waves across the country by investing in early childhood development resources that empower young minds. From mobile toy libraries to educational workshops, this collaborative effort is ensuring that no child is left behind when it comes to access to learning through play. The Toy Library Association of South Africa ECD movement is building a stronger foundation for our nation’s future—one child, one toy, one community at a time.

Many South African children start Grade R without having developed the necessary physical, cognitive, social-emotional, and language skills required for success in a structured learning environment. According to STATS SA, 30% of children enter school lacking foundational skills, making it difficult for them to complete everyday classroom tasks. Additionally, nearly 40% of Grade R learners struggle with early numeracy and literacy concepts, impacting their future academic success.

Recognising the lack of hands-on, engaging play experiences which create gaps in school readiness, Fisher-Price and the Toy Library Association of South Africa (TLASA) will distribute Little People Big Yellow School Buses to toy libraries in various communities across the country to help kids reach essential developmental milestones. These libraries provide children in underserved communities with access to educational play tools, helping them develop the skills they need for a strong start in school.

“Many children in South Africa lack access to toys that promote early learning and development. By introducing interactive and imaginative play tools to toy libraries, we are giving these children the opportunity to develop essential skills through play,” says Debbie Cockrell, Chairperson of TLASA. “This initiative helps close the learning and development gap, ensuring that more children across the country enter Grade R feeling confident and ready.”

The Department of Basic Education mentions on their website that they recognise the importance of “investing in the early years to ensure that every child can reach their full potential. Quality ECD programmes and services have been shown to improve school readiness, academic achievement and lifelong well-being, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. “

Studies show that children who engage in structured play-based learning are 25% more likely to develop problem-solving and social skills than those who do not. Children learn best through active and engaging play, where they practice various movements, interactions, and challenges in a fun, low-pressure environment. So, this is how parents help their children develop these critical school-readiness skills before stepping into the classroom:

Physical readiness is essential for daily classroom tasks like holding a pencil, using scissors, and maintaining balance. Fine motor skills, such as gripping crayons or toy characters and buttoning clothes, help children complete precise hand movements, while sensory play with different textures and activities builds coordination and body awareness.

Cognitive readiness prepares children for problem-solving, logical thinking, and early numeracy and literacy. Recognising colours, shapes, and patterns helps with structured learning, while counting and sequencing strengthen early math skills. Engaging in memory-based activities, imaginative play, and storytelling further enhance cognitive endurance and curiosity. Items like the Little People Big Yellow School Bus from Fisher-Price offers a play experience that helps children understand various social and practical concepts through play.

Social-emotional readiness is equally important, as children must learn to interact with teachers and peers. Roleplaying different scenarios helps build confidence, cooperation, and emotional intelligence. Exposure to diverse experiences, like being on a school bus, or engaging with friends, fosters empathy and inclusivity, while encouraging independence boosts self-reliance in a school setting.

Language development plays a critical role in school readiness, as communication skills allow children to express their thoughts and engage in learning. Expanding vocabulary through conversation and storytelling, improving listening skills with songs and rhymes, and practicing discussions during play all contribute to stronger verbal abilities, which is developed through peer interaction that happens during play.

With so much emphasis on school readiness, parents need engaging ways to develop these essential skills—and that’s where play comes in. The Fisher-Price Little People Big Yellow School Bus is designed to help children learn through play, making it a fun and interactive tool for preparing little ones for Grade R.

“The level of innovation in the design of the product speaks to the changing world we live in where children can have access to play resources with characters that resemble themselves, developing inclusive play spaces, exposure to different types of people and fostering conversations with young minds to engage topics in a fun play filled way,” adds Debbie Cockrell.

Considering the characters are all from different cultural identities, and the inclusion of a disability with a character in a wheelchair, the bus also boasts Smart Stages learning content which introduces children to colours, numbers, and sequencing, fostering cognitive development. The interactive features, like pressing buttons, opening doors, and manoeuvring figures, enhance fine motor skills. Roleplaying school scenarios helps children develop social and emotional growth, while engaging with characters during play strengthens language and communication abilities.

Sources

  • Statistics South Africa (STATS SA). (2023). “Early Childhood Development and School Readiness Report.”
  • Department of Basic Education (DBE). (2023). “Annual Report on Early Learning and Grade R Performance.”
  • UNICEF South Africa. (2022). “The Role of Play in Early Childhood Development.”
  • Toy Library Association of South Africa (TLASA). (2023). “Impact of Toy Libraries on School Readiness.”

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Sesame Workshop South Africa’s study reinforces the value of engaging fathers in early childhood
In The NewsLifestyle

Sesame Workshop South Africa’s study reinforces the value of engaging fathers in early childhood

by Press Release
written by Press Release

Fathers are more than just providers—they’re powerful partners in their children’s growth. The Sesame Workshop South Africa fathers early childhood study shows the vital role dads play in shaping their little ones’ futures. From improved learning outcomes to stronger emotional bonds, involved fathers can transform the early development journey. The Sesame Workshop South Africa fathers early childhood initiative proves that when dads are engaged, everyone wins—especially the children.

Sesame Workshop International South Africa is shining a spotlight on the role of fathers – both biological and social[1] – in early childhood development with the launch of a new report entitled Transforming Gender Norms and Advancing Child Wellbeing through Innovative Father Engagement Initiative in South Africa.

The report presents the findings of an independent evaluation conducted by Ipsos into the effectiveness and impact of Takalani Sesame’s mass media content in engaging fathers in their children’s development through play. The evaluation focused on assessing changes in both child and adult in key areas such as caregiver knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours, caregiver-child interactions, time spent in guided play, reduction of gender stereotypes, child autonomy in activity selection, and the adoption of nurturing parenting practices

The purpose of the evaluation was to better understand how media can promote father engagement and to uncover key learnings for future programming. Over a 12-week period, 1 200 fathers and 240 children across Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and the Free State took part in the study. The study also incorporated qualitative insights drawn from focus groups with caregivers and children, providing deeper understanding beyond quantitative data.

The findings, which were shared at a Sesame Workshop event in Johannesburg on 10 April 2025, show that fathers involved in the study became more confident and joyful in playing with their children, reported improved relationships and spent more time in meaningful interactions. While time constraints remained a challenge – with 71% of fathers citing a lack of time as a key parenting challenge – the intervention successfully made play more appealing and rewarding for fathers.

Importantly, the intervention also reduced gender stereotypes among both children and adults. The evaluation found encouraging trends towards more diverse, gender-neutral play choices. Girls increasingly engaged in outdoor activities traditionally associated with boys, while boys showed greater acceptance of puzzles and traditionally female-associated toys like dolls. Children exposed to the media content also demonstrated an increased understanding that domestic tasks and play activities are suitable for both genders, reflecting a reduction in rigid gender norms. Meanwhile, caregivers showed an 8% increase in agreement that girls can play with cars and trains. The data also revealed a 10% increase in children preferring to play with their fathers, and a 9% rise for uncles – showing a clear shift toward valuing fathers as play companions.

“These are positive signs,” said Dr Onyinye Nwaneri, Managing Director of Sesame Workshop South Africa. “Children recognising that play, chores and emotions aren’t gender-specific is a powerful step towards equality. And seeing fathers support that journey shows real promise for long-term change.”

Positive parenting practices also showed improvement over the course of the 12-week evaluation. Findings revealed that more fathers were engaging with their children and they reported stronger emotional bonds and more nurturing interactions. However, while fathers reported feeling more supported by female caregivers, preliminary insights indicate that mothers did not experience a reciprocal increase in support. This highlights an important area for further exploration in future research into enabling genuinely collaborative parenting environments.

Dr Nwaneri noted that, while insightful, the study’s findings are bound by certain limitations. These include a relatively small sample size from only three provinces, limiting the gathering of broader insights. The non-randomised design of the study could also introduce selection bias, and the findings relied on self-reported data. Additionally, some unintended exposure to campaign material occurred due to a concurrent social media campaign during the study’s final four weeks.

She emphasised, however, that these limitations don’t detract from the significance of the study findings or the valuable understanding they have provided into the positive impact of exposing parents and children to appropriate media. They also present clear opportunities for refining methodologies in subsequent research.

“This evaluation reinforces the significant potential of appropriate and well-targeted media to catalyse positive societal transformation, particularly in challenging entrenched gender roles and enhancing inclusive, nurturing parenting practices,” Dr Nwaneri concluded. “Our intention is to build on this study to improve future research and enhance our delivery methodologies so as to maximise the depth, scalability and positive impact of the work we are doing.”

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Understanding Nutritional Labels On Products And Choosing The Right Solution For Your Little Ones Food Habits
Pre-schooler FeedingPre-schoolers

Understanding Nutritional Labels On Products And Choosing The Right Solution For Your Little Ones Food Habits

by Novalac Junior Vanilla
written by Novalac Junior Vanilla

Every parent has been there - standing in the grocery aisle, scanning a multitude of similar products and feeling rather uneducated. Finally resorting to trying to understand the nutritional label in order to help make your decision on which product will best contribute to your child’s growth and developing their superpowers. It’s a mix of hope, frustration, and feeling like you need to be something between a nutritionist and a NASA Scientist. You want something nutritious, but also something your child will actually enjoy, especially if they are not very eager or healthy eaters. That’s where Novalac Junior Vanilla, a delicious growing-up milk for children aged three and up, comes to assist and empower your shopping trips.

With no added sugar and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, C, Calcium, and Iron, Novalac Junior Vanilla helps bridge the nutritional gaps when your little one isn’t eating enough of the good stuff. But how do you know if a product truly meets your child’s needs? It all starts with understanding the nutritional label.

Decoding the nutritional label: What to look for

Firstly, it’s important to point out that labels are not just created and placed on a product to full space on the packaging. Foodstuff labelling in South Africa is regulated by the Department of Health. Labels must include specific information, such as the product name, ingredients, and nutritional information.

Reading a nutritional label can feel like cracking a secret code, but once you know what to look for, it becomes an informative tool in making the best choices for your family.

Here’s a quick guide on what you are looking for apart from the price:

  1. The ingredients list and other mandatory label information

Ingredients:

The ingredients are listed in order of quantity, from most to least and all ingredients must be declared by their common name. Fewer ingredients generally mean a cleaner, simpler product. With Novalac Junior Vanilla, you won’t find any unnecessary ingredients – such as no added sugar.

Allergens:

The label also needs to identify any allergens in a prescribed format.  

Country of origin:

Where the product was produced.

Date Marking :

This is the date of manufacture and the best before, use by and sell by date. However, it is important to note that when the “best before” dates have been reached, it does not mean that the food is unsafe, but that it may be past its best. “Use by” is somewhat more instructive and often applies to refrigerated items where the risk of microbiological spoilage can be expected to increase after a given date. “Sell by” is a storage guideline to ensure that goods still have a reasonable shelf life after sale.

Nutritional Information:

If a label includes claims like “High in fibre,” it is required to feature a nutritional table. Whether the table is included voluntarily by the manufacturer or due to a claim on the label, the Regulations under the Foodstuffs Act (R146) specify a precise format for presenting the nutritional information. Among other stipulations, the nutritional details must be presented in a tabular format, energy content must be listed in “kilojoules” or “kJ,” and the amounts of each nutrient must be shown per 100 g/ml and per single serving.

A nutritional table that includes energy content, fat, saturates, carbohydrates, sugars, protein, and salt.

Manufacturer or importer: 

The name and address of the manufacturer or importer 

Net contents: 

The net contents in metric units 

  1. Check for the all-important micronutrients

Micronutrients are the unsung heroes of nutrition. Novalac Junior Vanilla’s packaging is very detailed and formally lists the vitamins and minerals on the nutritional table but also reinforce the benefits of certain micronutrients by aligning an animal on the packaging design with a micronutrient. Here’s why they matter:

  • Vitamin A (Bush Baby) – Supports vision and overall growth.
  • Vitamin C (Cat) – Helps build a strong immune system.
  • Calcium (Hippo) – Crucial for strong bones and teeth.
  • Iron (Loch Ness) – Supports growth, brain development, and improves appetite.

Choosing a product high in these micronutrients, helps ensure your child is getting the right support for their development.

CHECK OUT: Novalac Junior Vanilla – the yummy and nutritional drink for children three years and older

  1. No added sugar is the best choice

Many growing-up milks and nutritional drinks are packed with hidden sugars. Instead, look for products which are labelled “no added sugar”. This helps prevent sugar spikes and supports long-term health. Novalac Junior Vanilla ticks this box too as the good option.

South Africa also implemented a new regulation requiring the warning label “high in sugar” on food and drinks with more than 17.5 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres. So best to avoid those foods.

  1. Follow instructions to the T

Once you’ve chosen the right product, it’s important to prepare and store your product correctly as per the instructions on the label.

Novalac Junior Vanilla should be prepared and mixed according to the recommended ratios – adding too much or too little can impact the nutritional balance and benefits as well as cause upset tummies. However you can use the constituted powder on its own in various recipes ( insert link to recipes here )

  1. Storage

Be sure to store as per the label and in the case of growing up milk, it must be stored in its sealed container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and nutritional value.

Make sure that you discard the contents of the opened tin if unused after the specified period as well as throwing away any prepared milk if not consumed after 1 hour. 

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Be an educated and empowered parent

By combining your newly acquired product labelling knowledge with Novalac Junior Vanilla, you have a trusted, delicious, no added sugar option that’s easy to integrate into daily life. So next time you find yourself in the grocery aisle, scanning all those labels, you’ll know exactly what to look for – because every little choice adds up to big nutritious wins.

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Help! My Child Only Wants To Eat Yoghurt! Why, What And How
Pre-schooler FeedingPre-schoolers

Help! My Child Only Wants To Eat Yoghurt! Why, What And How

by Novalac Junior Vanilla
written by Novalac Junior Vanilla

Many parents know the very real struggle of mealtimes when their little ones prefer only certain foods – or even worse, the foods they like are lacking in nutrition. One day your kid loves bananas, the next, they act like you’ve betrayed them by putting one on their plate. It’s frustrating, confusing, and often leads to that sinking feeling of guilt - "Am I giving my child all the nutrients they need?". You become anxious as your nurturing instinct goes into overdrive.

Well, the good news is you’re not alone. Selective eating is a common phase, but when it lingers, it can bring stress to both you and your child as well as the family dynamics. Beyond your own dinner table, it affects social interactions, school meals, and even family gatherings. The pressure to ensure your selective eater gets enough nutrients while navigating their difficult preferences can feel extremely overwhelming.

That’s where Novalac Junior Vanilla plays such an important role in your child’s nutrition. It’s a delicious, no added sugar, vanilla-flavoured growing-up milk for children aged three and up. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it helps fill the nutritional gaps, giving parents peace of mind and kids the support they need for healthy development.

YOU MUST READ: Recipe ideas and involving children in preparing their food

What is a selective eater ?

Whilst there is no generally accepted definition of selective or picky eating, it is indicated by a  variety of behaviours whereby children are highly selective in what they do or do not eat. This behaviour is often related to sensory sensitivity and a deeper cognitive processing of physical, emotional or social stimuli.

What are some examples of selective eaters?

Selective eating isn’t just about taste. Children may fear new or certain textures such a lumpy or chunky foods or avoid food with strong smells. On the other side children who are high sensory seekers may only want to consume very sweet food and drinks.  But even emotional factors can influence a child’s eating choices like seeking control over their environment by choosing how, when and what they eat, which can result in a food throwing tantrum if they feel out of control of the situation. Some kids prefer predictability and familiarity in their meals, while others may have a naturally lower appetite. Some prefer plastic utensils whilst others prefer metal.

For parents, this can be deeply frustrating and oh so confusing – especially when friends, family, or even strangers offer well-meaning but unwelcome advice:

  • “Just make them eat it!”
  • “If they’re hungry enough, they’ll eat anything!”
  • “They’ll grow out of it – just wait.”
  • “When I was a child, my parents made me sit at the table until I had eaten my plate clean.”

But when your child’s diet is limited, waiting doesn’t always feel like an option. The concern creeps in – are they getting enough iron for brain development? Enough calcium for strong bones? Enough vitamin C for a healthy immune system? These are the questions that may plague you.

With Novalac Junior Vanilla, you can sleep easier knowing your child is still getting the right nutrients, even when food choices are limited.

Many parents know the very real struggle of mealtimes when their little ones prefer only certain foods – or even worse, the foods they like are lacking in nutrition. One day your kid loves bananas, the next, they act like you’ve betrayed them by putting one on their plate.

The emotional impact of selective eating

The negative effect that selective eating has on a family extends beyond nutrition. Kids may feel anxious or embarrassed in social settings where they can’t eat the same foods as their peers. Birthday parties, school lunches, and meals at a grandparent’s house can become stressful instead of enjoyable.

For parents, there’s often guilt and exhaustion – especially when feeling judged by others. The constant battle over meals can take an emotional toll, making food feel like a source of conflict rather than connection. All this can have an impact on the parents involved, as they clash over ways to solve the problems. One word of advice- stand as a united parenting team, decide on the processes that you will take and agree on boundaries to steer through times of rough sea together.

This is why Novalac Junior Vanilla isn’t just a nutritional solution – it’s also a way to relieve stress for both you and your child. Knowing that they are getting essential vitamins and minerals – like vitamin A for vision, vitamin C for immunity, Calcium for strong bones, and Iron for growth and brain development – means mealtimes are less pressurising and more about connecting.

Plus, Iron has another bonus benefit – it helps improve appetite in iron deficient diets, which can encourage kids to expand their list of preferred foods over time.

A simple solution for nutritional peace of mind

Novalac Junior Vanilla makes it easy to get those extra nutrients into your child’s diet without all the drama. It can be mixed as a simple drink, added to milkshakes, blended into smoothies, or even added to simple recipes like porridge or pancakes. The natural vanilla flavour makes it enjoyable on its own while also being versatile enough to pair with other foods.

And shouldn’t mealtime also be fun? That’s why Novalac Junior Vanilla has introduced four adorable characters which are featured on the eye-catching tin. Each character represents an essential micronutrient.

  • Bush Baby = Vitamin A (for visual development)
  • Cat = Vitamin C (for immunity support)
  • Hippo = Calcium (for strong bones and teeth)
  • Loch Ness = Iron (for growth, brain development and appetite)

ALSO READ: Novalac Junior Vanilla – the yummy and nutritional drink for children three years and older

These characters can help turn mealtime into a learning and connecting experience, giving parents the opportunity to bond through storytelling with their kids – for example, you could tell the story of baby hippo and how she grew big and strong. Watch how your little one begins to engage with the idea of healthy eating in a way that feels fun rather than forced. Unpack exploratory questions such as what do you think it is like to eat with only your mouth and no hands like the hippo, or why do cats love fish? Can you describe what fish tastes like. Do bushbabies eat together or on their own? These are fun ways to get your child thinking about the eating process, whilst using sensory cues to encourage eating.

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Novalac Junior Vanilla takes the pressure off mealtimes and mom-guilt

There’s something to remember: It’s not your fault. Eating habits develop over time, and every child’s journey is different. Your role isn’t to fight every meal – it’s to offer balanced options, support healthy habits, and ensure they get the nutrients they need in a way that works for you as a family at that particular stage.

With Novalac Junior Vanilla, you have a trusted nutritional ally that helps fill the gaps, reduces the stress, and provides peace of mind – because healthy growth isn’t just about food; it’s about emotional well-being, too. Find out more about this delicious growing-up milk and how it can play such a vital role in your selective eater’s daily diet.

So next time your little one turns their nose up at dinner, take a deep breath. You’ve got this in the tin, so to speak. And with Novalac Junior Vanilla, they’ve got the nutritional support they need to thrive… and have fun with food while they do.

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Mindfully Foster Your Child's Relationship With Healthy Food
Pre-schooler FeedingPre-schoolers

Mindfully Foster Your Child’s Relationship With Healthy Food

by Novalac Junior Vanilla
written by Novalac Junior Vanilla

Every parent knows the struggle - one day your child is happily eating everything on their plate, and the next, they suddenly develop a strong preference for just a handful of foods. It’s a phase that almost every child goes through, and while it can be frustrating for parents, getting your selective eaters involved in preparing their food with you is a clever, fun and bonding way to encourage healthy eating habits and stimulate a healthy relationship with food.

Novalac Junior Vanilla can play a vital role in this food preparation. It is a growing-up milk for children aged three and above that provides essential micronutrients, helping to bridge nutritional gaps when kids aren’t eating a balanced diet. With its no added sugar and delicious vanilla taste, it’s a nutritious supplement on its own, but can also be a versatile ingredient when introducing other yummy dishes to your child. Here are some exciting ways to get your little one engaged in the kitchen while incorporating Novalac Junior Vanilla into their meals.

  1. Give them choice

Children love having a say in what they eat, and when they’re involved in choosing a recipe, they’re more likely to be excited about mealtime. Sit down together and look through a few simple, healthy recipes – get them even more invested by buying them their own recipe book (there are many to choose from for children). Giving kids some control over their meals – like making smoothies, fun-shaped pancakes, or creamy ice lollies with Novalac Junior Vanilla – boosts their excitement and confidence in trying new foods.

  1. Take them grocery shopping

Turn grocery shopping into a fun adventure. Let your child help pick out fresh fruits, veggies, and other healthy ingredients for their meals. You can make it even more exciting by turning it into a treasure hunt – ask them to find the yellow bananas or five green veggies. When they feel like they’re part of the decision-making process, they become more invested in the food they’re about to prepare and eat.

  1. Give them their own kitchen utensils

Kids love feeling like little chefs, so why not give them the tools to match? Child-friendly utensils, such as plastic knives, small whisks, and safe mixing bowls, allow them to participate without any risks. They can help stir their Novalac Junior Vanilla into a fruity smoothie or mix it into a batter for flapjacks, pancakes or muffins. When children get hands-on experience in the kitchen, they develop a sense of ownership over their meals – and are more eager to taste their yummy creations.

  1. Get them to assist at the same level as you the authority.

Even the youngest kitchen helpers can be part of the fun. If your child is too little to stand at the counter, place them on a stool where they can see what is happening and feel like their input is valued and relative. Give them simple tasks like shaking a container, sprinkling in Novalac Junior Vanilla powder, or handing you ingredients. Show them that it’s also okay to taste ingredients before they go into the mixing bowl – this is a great way for them to get in healthy fruits and veggies without any fuss. At the end of the day, watching food come together before their eyes makes them feel excited about eating what they helped to prepare.

  1. Find fun and creative ways to use Novalac Junior Vanilla

We already know how much they’ll love their Novalac Junior Vanilla growing-up milk because it’s that delicious. Now you can show them how much fun it is to make different meals using their favourite nutritional supplement. And, as it comes in a powder form, it’s easy to incorporate into various dishes. Here are some ideas:

  • Make ice cream: Blend Novalac Junior Vanilla with frozen bananas and a splash of milk or a few tablespoons of full-cream plain yogurt for a nutritious, creamy treat.
  • Whiz up fruity smoothies: Add seasonal fruits and a dollop of full-cream plain yogurt into an already mixed Novalac Junior Vanilla drink – use a hand-held food processor and blend to nutritious smoothie perfection.
  • Freeze into ice lollies: Mix Novalac Junior Vanilla with blended fruit, pour into moulds, and freeze for a refreshing snack, or make extra fruity smoothies (above) then pour what’s left over into moulds and freeze.
  • Stir into soups: Adding it to warm soups can be a simple way to boost nutrition while enhancing the flavour to please your selective eater’s tastebuds – choose soups with a thicker consistency, like butternut soup, as they work very nicely with Novalac Junior Vanilla.
  • Add to fritters: Whether you are making a sweet corn or apple and cinnamon fritter, adding Novalac Junior Vanilla powder to the batter before frying gets all those additional micronutrients into the yummy treats.
  1. Get creative with food art

Kids just love playing with their food – so why not make it part of the mealtime experience? Encourage them to arrange fruit slices into fun shapes or use cookie cutters to make sandwiches extra exciting. Let them draw fun designs with yogurt and Novalac Junior Vanilla powder on their plates before mixing it all up to eat. Allowing your selective eaters to “play with their food” gets them to think about eating as a fun experience rather than an unpleasant one.

  1. Turn mealtimes into story time

Novalac Junior Vanilla makes getting that important daily nutrition fun as its eye catching tin design uses fun characters to represent  an important nutrient:

  • Bush Baby represents vitamin A: For visual development.
  • Cat stands for vitamin C: Boosts immunity.
  • Hippo is all about the Calcium: Supports strong bones and teeth.
  • Loch Ness promotes Iron: Aids growth and brain development.

YOU MUST READ: Novalac Junior Vanilla – the yummy and nutritional drink for children three years and older

Just think about the fun stories you can create around these characters while preparing meals – maybe Bush Baby helps your child see in the dark, or Hippo gives them super-strong teeth for biting into crunchy apples. When food becomes part of an imaginative adventure, kids are more willing to try new things.

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Novalac Junior Vanilla is taking nutritious eating to fun new levels

Creating a holistic and healthy relationship with food, from a young age, is the foundation for good eating habits in the future so why not make it fun. And, who knows? You might just inspire a future chef in the making while you’re at it.

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