Let’s face it: the world of babies can be pretty confusing. Which nappie brand is best? Do you really need knee pads for when they start walking? Baby City’s informed, friendly staff are here to help you answer these questions and more, so that you can navigate the truly vast range with ease. You got this, mama! – www.babycity.co.za
From cute-as-a-button ‘gros for your brand new baba to the latest looks for your budding fashionista, Ackermans is all about value for money quality. Don’t forget to pick up those essentials while you’re doing a wardrobe shop: the store has a range of must-haves for kids up to 10 years old, including baby goodies and school uniforms. www.ackermans.co.za
There’s nothing quite like a picky eater, is there? Thankfully, Papachinos is here to ensure that your little ones actually do consumer some vitamins along with their milkshake. The kids’ menu features favourites like toasted cheese fingers, and might even entice them to try something new – calamari, anyone? Afterwards, they can burn off their energy at the amazing play park. – www.papachinos.co.za
Who doesn’t love trampolining? At Bounce South Africa, everyone turns into an acrobat-in-training, trying out their gravity-defying tricks or ball skills while literally on the fly. Plus, if you’re not a mad fan of bouncing, there are eight other activity zones to choose from. – www.bounceinc.co.za
McDonald’s really is our Old Faithful – when you’re too time-pressed to cook (or simply want to treat the kids), you just can’t go wrong with a Happy Meal. It’s pretty cool to know that there’s more diversity on the menu these days, with vegetarians catered for, and great coffee for mom… – www.mcdonalds.co.za
Online schooling has become as much of a part of our lives as remote working, and both parents and learners who follow this model swear by its flexibility (great for kids whose families travel a lot) and the cost savings – no uniforms or transport. Curro Online gets the thumbs up for its outstanding approach, excellent teachers and quality curriculum. – www.curro.co.za
Recognised for its forward thinking approach, with a curriculum that’s been carefully planned to equip kids for a 4IR future, Redhill is all about helping your child reach their full potential in every sphere: academically, socially and on the sports field. Another plus? Grade 12 learners can follow an IEB or International Baccalaureate route, giving them an education of international standards. – www.redhill.co.za, 20 Summit Road, Morningside, 011 783 4707
Bryandale Primary School understands that each child has their own unique educational journey, and is ready to help them face any challenges they may encounter thanks to forward-thinking teaching techniques and the on-site presence of specialist therapists for those who need a little extra assistance.
www.bryandale.co.za, 121 Cumberland Avenue, Bryanston, 011 706 6087
Greenside High School’s approach to education is rooted in the acknowledgement that, in the world of the future, skills like problem solving and teamwork are going to be just as important as technical expertise. That’s why the school strives to develop each individual holistically, achieving consistently noteworthy matric results in the process. – www.greensidehigh.co.za, Geers Avenue, Greenside, 011 646 0113
‘Witsies’ have been leaving their mark in business, science, the arts and every other sphere for more than 100 years, and the university’s reputation as a centre of excellence stands strong. In fact, did you know that Wits include four Nobel Laureates amongst its alumni? Impressive, indeed. – www.wits.ac.za, Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein, 011 717 1000
With its nurturing environment and beautiful playground, Bryandale Pre-Primary gives your little learner (up to Grade R) the very best start to education. The school also gives kids an taste of sport and cultural pursuits with a range of extramurals, with aftercare also provided. – www.bryandalepreprimary.co.za, 121 Cumberland Avenue, Bryanston, (011) 463 6820
Even the most dignified of us brims with excitement upon entering Toys R Us! From crafts to cuddlies, puzzles, STEAM toys, Lego and even electronic gadgets, the store feels like a door into the imagination. You’ll love it almost as much as your kids do! – www.toysrus.co.za, 087 234 8697
Warning: When you see your little one decked out in her Cotton On best, you’ll wish the made the same pieces in a bigger size (and sometimes they do – anyone for mommy and me Christmas PJs?) We love the brand’s gorgeous fabrics and super cute styling – all round perfect for kids from newborns to age 14. – www.cottonon.com/ZA/