April 2011 64

34 28 features 27 QING MING FESTIVAL 52 GIRL POWER Help your child understand and If you thought rugby season ended experience the holiday. with the Sevens, think again and cheer on the girls. 28 GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT? How harmful are the pesticides on our 55 UNDERSTANDING LITERACY produce, and how can we eliminate Learn how to teach an important, but them? unnatural skill.

33 OUT OF BREATH 60 URBAN SOUL The negative impacts of air pollution Step inside the Shouson Hill home of on children are varied and serious. an Australian family of five. Find out how it could be affecting your PHOTOGRAPHY kids. 64 O FOR ORGANIC Belinda Bath Natural style heats up for the little 34 THE INSIDE STORY ones. MODEL Zavier The air inside your home can be up to 70 per cent more polluted than the 74 EASTER DELIGHTS CLOTHES air outside. How do we protect our Learn to prepare seasonal treats from La Fille Unique families? Annabel Karmel. LOCATION Classified, Happy Valley 39 EATING GREEN 79 Q&A Get healthy while you help save the The Child Development Centre answers planet. your questions about obsessive behaviours. 42 WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Exercise your green fingers and 82 HOT AIR RISING discover your inner eco-warrior. Encourage your budding scientists with this fun and easy experiment. 46 THE GREAT OUTDOORS Take your kids camping this weekend. April 2011 42 55

74 upfront regulars 10 WHAT’S ON 23 TOY BOX A look at what’s going on around town Eco-friendly toys that teach and amuse this month 25 BOOKSHELF 14 HOT OFF THE PRESS Books for eco-curious kids Hip new shops, services and products 88 THE LAST WORD 17 FINGER ON THE PULSE Nury Vittachi discusses his daughter, a Parenting news from around the world massive drain on the electricity grid. 18 ECO HERO information Ideas and products for greener living 83 STOCKISTS See something you like? We’ll tell you Bookshelf where to get it. pg 25

Toy Box Eco Hero pg 23 pg 18 contributors

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tracey Starr t: 2973 6078 e: [email protected]

PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Jo Allum Sarah Simpson t: 2973 6159 Although born in Hong Kong, Sarah didn’t have e: [email protected] the typical city upbringing her classmates had, but rather a shoeless, ambling, seaweed-picking childhood on the outskirts of a Lamma fishing ADVERTISING SALES AND DISTRIBUTION village as the only “expat brat” in the bay. Growing Narelle Edwards t: 2973 6131 up was all fun, games and travel for Sarah, but at the age of 19, she e: [email protected] found herself jetting off to Melbourne for three years of study at RMIT University for a bachelor’s degree in communication. After completing her degree, she felt the illustrious pull of Hong Kong and returned home, ACCOUNT MANAGER settling in with her boyfriend and – new edition – Charlie the puppy in Wendy Clarke Mui Wo, Lantau. She is now working as a freelance writer and educator, t: 2973 6279 e: [email protected] with dreams of someday living it up on an untouched African beach.

ACCOUNT MANAGER Cath Worthington t: 2973 6139 e: [email protected]

PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael Chau

Belinda Bath ART DIRECTOR Belinda had an idyllic childhood growing up on a Timmy Ho farm in Cowra, NSW, Australia, with two siblings, riding horses, motorbikes and getting a country education. At the tender age of 17, she moved to the “big smoke” of Sydney to study fashion design and illustration. After a few years, she moved to GRAPHIC DESIGNER Samuel Tang Melbourne to pursue a career in advertising, working as a freelance advertising stylist on catalogues, print ads and magazines. Having worked with so many creative people and photographers over the years, it seemed like a natural progression when her family relocated CEO to Hong Kong four years ago and Belinda embarked on a new creative David Tait adventure: a canvas design project (www6.clikpic.com/belindabath). t: 2973 6791 e: [email protected] Nurturing her love of photography and travel, Asia has provided endless inspiration. Belinda spends her free time exploring this amazing city with her husband and two kids. FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS & DISTRIBUTION t: 2973 6131

CONTRIBUTORS: Melanie Adamson, Belinda Bath, Davide Butson-Fiori, Denise Fair, Freya Simpson Giles, Michael Hansen, Ingrid Keneally, Elle Kwan, Tiffany Leung, Sarah Simpson, Nury Vittachi

PUBLISHed By: PPP Company Ltd, 20/F Carfield Commercial Building 75-77 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2973 6131 PRINTed By: Fantasy Printing Ltd. in Hong Kong ISSN 1726-183X

Published by PPP Company Limited. The publication is sold on the understanding that the publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors or omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a purchaser of the publication or not, in respect of any action or omission or the consequences of any action or omission by any such person, whether whole or partial, upon the whole or part of the contents of this publication. All rights reserved, 2011 PPP Company Limited. No part of this work, covered by the publisher’s copyright may be reproduced in any form by any means, graphic, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or information storage and retrieval, without the written permission of the publisher. Any unauthorised use of this publication will result in immediate legal proceedings. welcome Tracey and models Grace, Sienna & Zavier his month we’re celebrating Earth Day. I can still remember the first time I marked the date, back in the 1980s. A few progressive teachers took several of us on T a field trip to the Pennsylvania state capital to take part in a rally. I was about 12 or 13 and it was my first political demonstration. I didn’t really know much about politics or Earth Day, but it sounded like a fun opportunity (to get out of a class). I remember the excitement of marching, and then my bewilderment when I learned that seemingly smart adults were allowing our beautiful planet to be destroyed. But time passed and now – suddenly, it seems – I’ve become one of those adults and I wonder if I’m doing enough, making the best decisions. Of course, I’ve incorporated all the easy fixes into my daily life: turning off lights when I leave a room, turning off the water when I’m brushing my teeth, recycling what I can and carrying my own shopping bags. But globalisation has complicated things. If I buy green cleaning products, but they’re imported from Australia, what’s the net effect? Am I creating an even bigger carbon footprint? If I buy organic cotton, am I inadvertently contributing to child labour in Uzbekistan? These are tough questions and there don’t seem to be any easy or absolute answers. But while we don’t have all the answers, we have talked to local experts to find out as much as we can. Inside, you’ll find facts and figures about air pollution – both indoor and outdoor – and steps you can take to help mitigate the problems. You’ll learn about pesticides in our foods, local farming and how to help the planet and your waistline by eating green. And, when you’re ready to get out and enjoy the amazing outdoor opportunities Hong Kong offers, you’ll find family-friendly hikes. I hope you’ll be inspired to do your part in celebrating and cleaning up this planet, and teaching your kids to do the same.

Thanks for reading,

Tracey Starr, Editor-in-Chief

8 Playtimes

WHAT’S ON April The hoTTesT haPPenings around T own

up to 800 enthusiastic singers from the esF primary schools, aged nine to 11, will perform a selection of songs from around the world at Queen elizabeth stadium. Click www.urbtix.hk Cheer the girls at hong Kong’s for tickets. as if kids needed a special day all girls rugby Tournament to feel like the centre of the at Kings Park, hosted by sai universe … Kung stingrays rFC.

Meet the team and enjoy short, sample sessions This short course will help about the services on offer first-time expectant mums during a free open day at learn about pregnancy and the Central location. having a baby in hong Kong. For details, visit Click www.esmdywca.org.hk for www.amotherstouch.com.hk. details.

Kids will enjoy creative writing and holiday theatre head to the arcade at programmes on Cyberport for the Child offer from Faust development Carnival, where international during you’ll enjoy performances the easter break. and learn how to inspire your For details, visit www.FaustWorld.com. More than 140 countries child’s talent and artistic around the world will celebrate potential. earth day today. what are you Find more details at doing for the planet? arcade.cyberport.hk.

10 Playtimes sponsored feature

camperurban For Spring-Summer 2011, CAMPER for Kids plays with colours and shapes. For the youngest members of the family, CAMPER offers a collection that makes each step easier and more comfortable for their first adventures in walking. Learning to walk will be twice as much fun with CAMPER for Kids!

he TWS line offers fantasy, fun and asymmetry. Thanks to unique designs, they’re super-fun to wear. And wearing two different – but complementary – shoes, your kids will stand out from the crowd. Your little girl will enjoy making Tup stories about her TWS shoes featuring balloons and a ballerina. Learning the difference between her left and right foot will be lots of fun. The whimsical rooster-themed TWS sandals are made of chrome-free, washed goat leather, and feature soft and comfy -- but still supportive – insoles. And the boys can have their fun, too. The simple and ergonomic design of the Peu Cami shoes follows the natural shape of the foot with an original design. Elastic laces make putting them on and taking them off a snap, and a rubber outsole provides great grip for playground action.

12 Playtimes sponsored feature

Peu Circuit $899 Peu Circuit $899

Peu Circuit $899

TWS $899 TWS $799

TWS $899

TWS $799 Pelotas Xlite $899

Pelotas Xlite $899

Peu Cami $899

Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay 2882 7810 Peu Cami $899 Times Square, Causeway Bay 2506 9051 Langham Place, Mongkok 3514 9112 Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong 2265 8821 apm, Kwun Tong 3148 1413 New Town Plaza Phase I, Shatin 2605 8661

April 2011 13 HOT OFF THE PRESS

Simply Little Limited is a new online baby boutique based in Hong Kong that imports quality products from Australia, New Zealand, the US and Europe. Brands include Aden + Anais, Alimrose Designs, Cheeky Little Soles, Merino Kids, Oishi-M, EggKids, and Babysoy – a sustainable and modern line for eco-babies that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or style. Babysoy clothes are made using soybean protein fibre. Who would have thought you could dress your baby in the leftover soybean pulp from tofu and soymilk production?! Click www.simplylittle.com to outfit your little eco-warrior.

Newly launched Bebe 2 be online store offers a range of eco-friendly bodysuits made from bamboo fabric for babies up to 24 months. Bamboo fabric has a soft and comfortable feel, similar to silk, and is naturally hypo-allergenic and anti-bacterial, making it perfect for babies’ sensitive skin – especially those with eczema and allergies. It’s breathable and thermo-regulating, too, helping babies deal with Hong Kong’s changeable weather. To learn more, visit www.bebe2be.com.

Last month, more than 130 students competed for bragging rights and a share of $60,000 in prizes at Spellbulary, Hong Kong’s biggest spelling and vocabulary championship. Let Sarah Lee and the Contestants, aged team at Sweet Secrets five to 15, battled help fill your Easter it out, spelling and baskets this year with defining words such adorably decorated cookie as “aerodynamic” and and cupcake assortments “effervescent” in front of an anxious for $38. Bunnies, chicks audience. Chinese International School students took and Easter egg designs home four of the 15 top prizes, followed closely by French are available. Planning a International School and German Swiss International party and want to delight School. The annual competition is organised by The Kelly your guests? Call Sweet Yang Project, a premier writing programme for students. Secrets and place your bulk order by 15 April. Visit www.kellyyang.com to learn more. Click www.sweetsecrets.com.hk for details.

14 Playtimes Amelia Johnson Contemporary presents an exhibition designed for children. An eclectic mix of oils, embroidery, papier mache, cut outs, photography and etchings, depicting a wide range of subjects from butterflies and paper dresses to robots and speeding cars, will enchant the younger visitors to the gallery and delight the inner child in us all. Events include the opening party on 6 April, a children’s tea party on 9 April, and cupcakes and colouring parties 16 and 30 April and 7 May. The gallery is located in Noho, 6-10 Shin Hing Street. Learn more at www.ajc-art.com.

In 2009, during her own chemotherapy treatments, Hong Kong-based mum Jodi-Ann Goulter received a special gift in the mail, called a Dammit Doll. “I got quite a chuckle out of it, which was a rare moment during Just in time for your Easter travels, that year,” Jodi-Ann recalls. And Bumps to Babes offers the CARES Child now that she’s in remission, Air Safety Harness, which weighs just one pound, Jodi-Ann has decided to pay fits into a handbag and has been designed that chuckle forward. She and specifically for children aged from 12 months her helper, Claire, are making who weigh between 22 and 44 pounds. These their own Whack It dolls with youngsters are old enough to be in their own love, care and hope of raising seats, but are too small for the seat belt alone to protect awareness and funds for cancer them and provide the safety they require during air travel. research here. Order yours, Get yours exclusively at Bumps to Babes for $599. for $100, by emailing Jodi-Ann directly: [email protected].

After noticing national- themed apparel on her trips back to New Zealand, Hong Kong-based mum Michelle French wanted to create something simple and funky that kids could wear to celebrate our local I Dream Elephants, Your Little Stylist is on culture – something a mission: To provide your kids with stylish that didn’t look too “touristy” and affordable outfits that combine basic and that stylish kids would essentials with quirky, cool pieces. If you want to wear. So she created lack Rachel Zoe’s eye, don’t fret. They make Little Local, a line of durable, shopping easier by displaying pieces in colourful hoodies featuring outfits, showing you how to put a variety of unique Hong Kong icons. Fun garments together to make a great look. facts and quirky prints reflect Delivery from their UK base takes five to ten the unique life in our great working days and costs £15. Start shopping city. Buy them at Babushka at www.idreamelephants.com. or www.littlelocal.net.

April 2011 15 sponsored feature

Simonetta floral print dress, £246

Il Gufo white dress with wide ruffle collar, £97

Marie Chantal linen crop cardigan, £67.50, Louise louise pale pink gold dot print dress with cross straps, £60 petite chic reate the perfect outfits for your perfect child – outfits that let her beauty, Cconfidence and personality shine through – with a little help from La Fille Unique. London-based online retailer La Fille Unique understands fashion. They started outfitting some of the UK’s best-dressed kids in September 2010, and when they realised how seriously we Hong Kongers take our shopping, they knew they needed to reach out. Just in time for warmer, sunnier days, you’ll find oodles of dresses befitting your princess. Unique looks from more than 20 high-end European designers are on offer. Your girlie-girl will love looks from London’s Marie Chantal. Her spring line includes beautiful dresses, from cute and casual to party-ready. Petite non-conformists will revel in edgy looks from Little Paul & Joe. This collection from France reflects its creator’s preference for mixing and matching based on her mood. And your smart and chic daughter will radiate confidence and joy in sophisticated looks from Italian designers Simonetta and Il Gufo. Enjoy shopping from home (or the office!) on the well-designed and user-friendly website. Standard delivery to Hong Kong costs £8.95 and takes five to seven days. For your fashion emergencies, express shipping is available for £19.95. www.la-fille-unique.com

Il Gufo white and navy striped 16 Playtimes dress with side bow, £115 FINGER ON THE PULSE

Talking on a mobile phone for close to an hour has an impact on brain activity, according to the latest research, but the long-term health effects remain unclear. A preliminary study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that using a mobile for 50 minutes was associated with a spike in brain glucose metabolism, which is a marker for brain activity. The increased glucose metabolism happened in the area of the brain closest to the phone antenna, said scientists from the National Institutes of Health. What the results mean from a health standpoint isn’t yet known. source: AOL Health

Nǐ​​néng​​shuō​​Pǔ​tōng​huà​​ma? Parlez-vous français? Children who display a lack of ¿Habla español? Speaking a second language gives toddlers emotion and a lack of empathy some cognitive advantages over children who only speak or guilt – features that one language, a new study shows. psychologists call “callous- Researchers in Canada and France divided more than unemotional traits” – are at 60 24-month-old children into two groups: those who spoke risk of antisocial behaviour both French and English, and those who spoke a single and other adjustment language. According to a report in the Journal of Experimental problems, research shows. Child Psychology, the children with two native languages An analysis of data from significantly outperformed the children who spoke one more than 9,000 twins born in language on a cognitive test that measured reaction time and England and Wales between 1994 and 1996 the ability to exclude conflicting information. (There was no found that high levels of both callous-unemotional difference in performance between the two groups on other traits and conduct problems were associated cognitive exams.) The findings show that exposing children to with negative child and family factors at age four, a second language early on can help with attention control. including negative parental discipline and chaos source: www.parentdish.com in the home. High levels of the traits and conduct problems were also linked to behavioural issues at age 12, including problems with peers. source: HealthDay News

According to a survey by US-based investment firm Charles Schwab, getting your kid to help out at home may help her The number of fifth-graders be money-savvy in the future. in Virginia who were recently • Fifty-three per cent of parents who gave their children four found to have high cholesterol. or more chores say their now- The good news? Many cases adult kids are “very financially can be treated with lifestyle responsible.” modifications such as increased • Thirty-nine per cent of parents exercise and improved eating whose children had no regular habits. chores think the same about their grown-up kids. source: Parents source: Parents

April 2011 17 ECO HERO

Kids grow up so fast. You buy clothes and You know you’re supposed to buy local accessories, only to find them outgrown produce, but you’d like to buy organic, a few months later. Rather than throwing too. Homegrown Foods might be your them away, sell them to Eco Mama, where answer. They work closely with local they’ll be re-sold to new families. Baby family organic farms in the New clothes, toys, cots – they’ll buy and sell just Territories and just across the about any useful items in good condition. border in China, and provide And if the items aren’t in such good direct distribution from them condition? They’ll take those too, and to your door. They do the donate what they can to research and testing, ensuring charities. Learn more at that their partner farms are growing www.eco-mama.org. their produce with integrity. Your farm-fresh vegetables will arrive within 24 hours of being harvested. And beginning this month, they’ll be offering greater flexibility in both ordering and deliveries. For details, click www.homegrownfoods.com.hk.

If you’ve got kids crawling, playing, sleeping and living in your home, then cleanliness is especially important. But are the harsh chemicals in your cleaning products doing more harm than good? Enter Johnson Group. As a leading green pest management and green home cleaning solution provider, they believe it’s their job to help you solve your cleaning problems without harming your family or the environment. Buy products for your own use or have them do the cleaning for you. Services include premium home cleaning, mattress cleaning, disinfection and VOC (volatile organic compound) removal. Click www.johnson-group.com.hk for details.

How many bottles have you thrown into the bin while wondering, “Why can’t we recycle glass here”? An answer may be on the horizon. In December, the government launched a pilot programme for separating and recycling glass bottles. Six public housing estates are participating in the pilot programme, which will last for 12 months. Glass bottles collected will be recycled into glass sand, replacing natural river sand in the production of paving blocks. (Such eco- paving blocks have previously been used in various projects of the Highways Department and other organisations.)

18 Playtimes Celebrate Earth Day and Easter together this year by trying natural dyes, rather than the store-bought varities. Try these ingredients to make a rainbow of colours: Lavender: purple grape juice Blue: red cabbage, purple grape juice or blueberries Green: spinach Yellow: carrot tops, orange or lemon peels, turmeric or cumin Orange: yellow onion skins Pink: beets, red grape juice, cranberries or raspberries Red: red onion skins, pomegranate juice, raspberries or canned cherries in syrup

Wash and rinse the eggs before soaking to ensure that dye will stick to them properly. Fill a pan with a single layer of eggs and the dye materials of your choice. Cover the eggs with one inch of water and two tablespoons of white vinegar per quart of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes. For deeper colour, remove the eggs from the heat and let them soak in the colour for another 15 minutes while cooling. Disposable nappies account for four per The longer you soak the eggs, the darker the colour. But be cent of all household waste and can take up to careful not to soak them longer than an hour or you’ll risk having 500 years to decompose. Thinking about switching the dye to seep through the shells and taint the eggs underneath. to reusables yet? Five lucky Playtimes readers will win After rinsing, you can polish the eggs with a cloth and vegetable oil the eco-friendly Mio Intro Kit from Bambino Mio. Each to make them shine. kit, valued at $399, contains three nappies, one nappy Stretching rubber bands around the eggs in different cover, 50 nappy liners and Mio Fresh nappy sanitiser. patterns before dying can create fun and unique looks, too. Just To enter, please email [email protected] by 30 make sure the eggs are completely dry before removing the April and include “Win Mio” in the subject line. Or, to rubber bands. You can also decorate the eggs with crayons before buy your own kit, swim nappies or training pants, visit dying them. The wax will resist the dye and whatever you’ve drawn www.bloomandgrowdirect.com, Bumps to Babes, Toys will stand out. Club or Toys“R”Us locations.

Have questions about waste reduction or recycling? Don’t throw away your old jeans; Call the Environmental Protection Department’s give them a second life. SofaSale Recycling Helpline. They offer: offers a new service to turn your • Technical advice on waste reduction and recycling old jeans into furniture. You supply the jeans, and they’ll create • A list of waste collectors and recyclers a handmade, comfy club chair. “We want to differentiate • Local waste recycling statistics ourselves from the traditional furniture retailers,” says Arno, • Information on government initiatives and father-of-two and the creative force behind SofaSale. “We try to activities create awareness among the Hong Kong people of smart ways Call: 2838 3111, or email: to spend their money. The contribution to a greener planet is a [email protected]. key mission to us.” Learn more at www.SofaSale.com.hk.

April 2011 19

ECO HERO

“As a mother, I understand how difficult it can be • Adjust the ratios of to get your child to eat healthy greens. Blending up fruits and greens green smoothies works in our house, and it might to your taste. Begin with just work for you,” says Priscilla, owner and founder more fruits so that your first smoothie is sweetly of Rawthentic Food. delicious. Then, as you continue drinking one each morning, you will likely find that you can add 2 cups leafy greens. Try bok choi, kale, spinach, less fruit and more leafy greens. romaine lettuce and/or parsley. • Blend in a high-speed blender, pour, drink and 2+ cups fruit. Try a combination of any of the enjoy! following: mango, banana, pear, apple, blueberries, strawberries and/or pineapple Rawthentic Food is a company dedicated 2 cups filtered water to spreading the love and living energy that 1 tbsp of ground flax, or chia seeds sustainable plant-based raw foods provide. For more 1 tbsp coconut oil (cold pressed/organic) information, click www.rawthenticfood.com.

The company behind travel discounter Expedia has launched a new programme that allows you to do some good for the planet when you book your trip. Make hotel bookings on www.travelrelief.org and the company will pay at least eight per cent of the hotel booking price to participating charitable organisations you choose. For example, book a hotel stay for US$300, and TravelRelief will contribute US$24 to the charity you select. Two Hong Kong-based environmental charities are participating: Hong Kong Shark Foundation and Project Kaisei.

Piggy Paint™ is a water-based nail polish that’s free of toxic chemicals. Specially formulated from natural ingredients, it’s non-flammable, environmentally safe, hypoallergenic and nearly odour-free. And it still manages to dry to a hard, durable finish. It is free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, bisphenol A, ethyl acetate and acetone, and all of its colorants have been certified by the US-based FDA for cosmetic use. Choose from 12 shades with lovely names like Angel Kisses and Dragon’s Tears. Available in Hong Kong at www.healthnliving.com, for $98.

April 2011 21

TOY BOX

BPA-Free Recycling Truck Age 3+ years $320 Hocusadabra

Organic Cotton Toys Green Creativity Age from birth Pressed Flower Art £15.30 (dog), £19.80 (ring) Age 5+ years La Fille Unique $85 Toys Club

Ecotronic Mr Robot Head Age 8+ years $305 Toys Club

FSC-certified Wooden FSC-certified Trike ‘n’ Trailer Wooden Bricks Age 12+ months Age 12+ months $570 $180 Mothercare Mothercare

April 2011 23

BOOKSHELF

Early Readers Babies Dear Greenpeace Mommy and Me by Simon James by Begin Smart Books $87 $100 Worried that the whale living This book provides important in her pond is unhappy, Emily picture-based stimulation writes to Greenpeace, who, aimed at helping your child though offering the best learn new words, express her of advice, insist that it is feelings, speak and listen. impossible for a whale to live Do you swim, rest, nap, in a pond. Undeterred, Emily snuggle, hug, run or ride continues to seek the best course of action for her like the animals pictured? beloved whale, finally setting him free. Remembering shared Available at Pollux Books experiences will bring you and your child closer. Available at Dymocks The Easter Egg by Jan Brett $162 We Planted a Tree If Hoppi can make the best by Diane Muldrow Easter egg, he will get to help $144 deliver the eggs on Easter “We planted a tree and it grew morning. But it’s not so easy. up. While it reached for the sky Discouraged, he goes into the and the sun … ” woods to think when a blue In this simple poem, two young robin’s egg tumbles out of families in two very different its nest. Hoppi keeps it safe and warm until the baby parts of the world plant a bird hatches, and when the Easter Rabbit arrives, he tree. As the trees flourish, so rewards Hoppi for his kindness. do the families. Trees all over Available at Pollux Books the world help clean the air, enrich the soil and give fruit Ivy and Bean: and shade. With a nod to Kenya’s successful Green Belt What’s the Big Idea? Movement, the text celebrates the life and hope that by Annie Barrows every tree – from Paris to Brooklyn to Tokyo – brings to $120 our planet. It’s the Science Fair and the Available at www.paddyfield.com theme is global warming. Some kids are making man- eating robots. Some kids are Billy & Sophie’s holding their breath for a very, Big Environmental very long time. Some kids are Adventure doing interesting things with by Ashley Chung vacuum cleaners. But what should Ivy and Bean do? $120 Available at www.shopinhk.com Written by a year 11 student at the Chinese International Stories for a Fragile School, this is a story about Planet two young siblings who go to bed and wake up in an by Kenneth Steven entirely different place. After £11 learning about the perils Through care and kindness facing our environment, the siblings return home with towards Earth’s creatures, renewed vision and new-found determination to make a human beings can find their difference to the world in which they live. rightful place in the world and Available at www.missgreenthepartyqueen.com live in peace and harmony. This message has echoed through stories from ancient times to the present day. The myths, traditional tales, and real-life stories from around the world in this illustrated book will speak to everyone who is concerned about our fragile planet. Available at www.lionhudson.com

April 2011 25 • Readers • Big Books • Flashcards • Online Classroom • Audio • Activity Pages • Chinese Cultural Pack • Games

Teach Mandarin with Dragon & friends! For more information, please contact Amberly Walker on 2973 6040 or [email protected]

www.primarymandarin.com MANDARIN MADE EASY

Help your child understand and experience the holiday with a little help from the Primary Mandarin team.

April 2011 27 good enough to eat? Many of us make a concerted effort to eat a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables. But with the use of pesticides on the increase, are we doing ourselves more harm than good? asks Denise Fair.

esticides are used on crops cent exceeded safe levels established per cent of the vegetables you will to prevent fungal invasion, by Codex and several tested positive find in Hong Kong originate from insect damage and the for illegal pesticides. mainland China. growth of unwanted plants, In April 2007, China implemented Hong Kong’s Centre for Food and so help increase new measures to improve safety. Safety (CFS) operates a food Pcrop production. But, unfortunately, However, in 2009, when examining surveillance programme that pesticide residue can remain on produce from supermarkets and regularly samples vegetables at the fruits and vegetables. This can wet markets in Beijing, Shanghai import, wholesale and retail levels. build up in the body and can cause and Guangzhou, Greenpeace Under the current system, vegetables a multitude of health implications, reported that only 11 per cent of can only be exported from vegetable including high blood pressure, the supermarket produce tested farms and collecting and processing infertility, and even birth defects and showed no trace of pesticides and establishments that are listed by cancer. that more than 50 different kinds of the General Administration of While most countries have their pesticides were discovered in the Quality Supervision Inspection own food standard governing bodies, remaining samples. Of these, 20 per and Quarantine. Based on their many comply with the standards cent contained illegal and highly December 2010 monthly report, 3,300 set out by the Codex Alimentarius poisonous pesticides and 60 per different fruits and vegetables were Commission. This committee cent had residues of at least five sampled and only seven were cited was formed by the World Health different kinds of pesticides. They also as unsatisfactory. Although this is a Organization and the Food and discovered that supermarkets had satisfactory result, public confidence Agriculture Organization of the United higher levels of pesticides than wet in the current system remains low. Nations to ensure fair practice in markets. international food trade and safety Results from independent testing What can you do? standards, including guidelines on the have eroded consumer trust. This Unfortunately, there is no definitive maximum limits for pesticides. has been further exacerbated by solution to remove all pesticide More than 150 countries are reports from Greenpeace that the residues from fruits and vegetables, members of Codex and Hong Kong reported frequency of samples taken simply because a large number of and China are amongst them. at the Hong Kong border was greatly different pesticides are used and they However, membership has not exaggerated and that many trucks all have different chemical properties. guaranteed compliance: In early carrying produce into Hong Kong There are, however, some strategies 2006, Greenpeace Asia reported simply bypassed the border Food you can use to reduce your risk of that during random tests on produce Control Offices and never underwent exposure: purchased from ParknShop and pesticide inspection at all. China Wellcome, over 70 per cent of the produces and exports over 350 million Choose carefully samples were found to be covered tonnes of vegetables and 80 million Pesticides are often used to help in pesticide residue. Of these, 30 per tonnes of fruit per year, and over 80 make the “perfect” fruit or vegetable

28 Playtimes March 2011 29

The Dirty Dozen These are the fruits and vegetables The Environmental Working Group found most likely to contain pesticides: – the blemish-free apple, the plum- Apples; bell peppers; blueberries; celery; cherries; grapes; kale; nectarines; juicy tomato. Therefore, fruits and peaches; potatoes; spinach; strawberries vegetables that are less than perfect are likely to have less pesticide The Clean 15 residue on them. Certain fruits and These are the fruits and vegetables The Environmental Working Group found vegetables are known to have more least likely to contain pesticides: pesticide residue because of the Asparagus; avocados; cabbage; cantaloupe; eggplant; grapefruit; process and environmental factors honeydew melon; kiwi; mango; onion; pineapple; sweet corn; sweet peas; employed when they are grown. The sweet potatoes; watermelon. Bananas, broccoli and tomatoes are also Environmental Working Group, a US- considered relatively clean. based organisation, regularly looks at produce and rates them based on pesticide residue. They say we can Hong Kong CFS suggest soaking your them and the tips of leafy vegetables reduce our pesticide exposure by up produce for one hour in water. This you will substantially reduce the to 80 per cent by avoiding the most may loosen up less tightly bound pesticide residue contained in the contaminated fruits and vegetables pesticides, but be sure to add a mild vegetable. and eating more of the cleaner ones detergent and rinse thoroughly after Cooking and steaming your (see the list in the box on this page). soaking. vegetables can remove some Substituting organic versions for “Vegetable washes” can be surface-level pesticide residues these “dirty” fruits and vegetables found in local supermarkets and as well, but the amount will be may be another option. But often claim to “clean” your fruits dependent on how tightly the while choosing organic fruits and vegetables, implying that they residue is bound to the surface of the and vegetables might seem like will remove pesticide residue. The vegetable. Cooking and steaming the obvious choice, they can be problem again lies in the fact that vegetables longer may decrease expensive and may not always be pesticide-free. Regulations on the terms “organic” or “certified organic” are country-dependent. China has seen an increase in organic farming, but it has two standards: one allows limited use of synthetic agricultural chemicals and another is more stringent, allowing much less usage. It’s worth noting, however, that both there are so many pesticide residues the pesticide residue, but will also standards still allow pesticide use. that one wash can’t possibly remove cause substantial loss of vitamins and Organic crops can inadvertently them all. Although research is limited nutrients. be exposed to pesticides through on how effective these washes are, Finally, don’t be fooled into rain and ground water and residual it has been generally found that thinking that produce from certain pesticides in the soil. So you may be fruit and vegetable washes are no countries will have less pesticide paying more for food that still contains more effective at removing pesticide residue. While some countries adhere traces of pesticide residue. If you residues from produce than using strictly to the Codex standards, many would still prefer to purchase organic, dish detergent. While they may help have been known to uphold different perhaps start by buying those found in wash away dirt and debris and, in standards for domestic use and the “dirty dozen” list. some cases, waxes, they are no more international export. Ultimately, the efficient than using a mild detergent. responsibility rests with the inspectors Clean your produce at the Hong Kong border who Wash fruit and vegetables like you Peel and cook your produce determine which produce is safe for wash your hands: with plain old soap Peeling the outside of skinned fruits consumption. and water. Holding the produce and vegetables can reduce more Should you pick locally grown under continuous running water will than 50 per cent of pesticide residue fruits or vegetables, or switch to help remove a minimal amount of in some cases. The downside to this is organic? My advice is to get into the substances, but most pesticides are that many of the beneficial nutrients habit of thoroughly washing your produced to be water-insoluble so are found in those edible peels. fruits and vegetables to significantly that farmers don’t have to re-treat The outer leafs of leafy vegetables lower your risk. Be aware of the dirty crops after it rains. A mild detergent will contain the highest amount of dozen, and eat a variety of fruits and like dish detergent should do the trick, pesticide residue and by removing vegetables. and scrubbing with a natural bristle brush under clean running water will further reduce pesticide residue. Denise Fair is a dietician at Central Health Medical Practice, Some governing bodies like the www.centralhealth.com.hk.

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source: Professor Jonathan Grigg, academic paediatrician at Queen Mary, University of London • Children aged four and under are the most at risk for asthma attacks from traffic-related air pollution. source: Medical Journal of Australia • Air pollution is shown to cause brain inflammation and nerve cell damage leading to lower IQ, and The negative impacts of air pollution on children are varied and memory and motion impairment in both kids and adults. serious, and if exposed from an early age, a child may suffer source: Science News Magazine impaired health for life, says Clean Air Network’s Tiffany Leung. • Long-term exposure to traffic air pollutants is also linked to other respiratory illnesses and heart problems in children. oor air quality is one of • As children are still growing, their source: American Thoracic Society Hong Kong’s top public lungs are still developing. Therefore, health problems, the breathing in air pollutants can What can parents do? most harmful source permanently impair their lung The most effective thing parents can do being roadside pollution. function and respiratory capacity. is to avoid exposing your kids to main InP 2010, Hong Kong saw its worst This can easily lead to a lifetime of intersections with heavy air pollution. roadside pollution levels to date. And weakened health. You can also stay abreast of air pollution though air pollution affects us all, some source: New England Journal of conditions by signing up to receive suffer more than others: our children Medicine email alerts from Clean Air Network are particularly vulnerable because • Air pollution has been shown to (www.hongkongcan.org/alert). This their breathing rates are higher than adversely affect the maximum email alert service delivers an email to that of adults, which results in a much oxygen uptake in children. you whenever the air quality becomes higher absorption rate of pollutants. Consequently, physical exercise unhealthy and the official Air Pollution Furthermore, the health impacts of air in highly polluted areas might Index exceeds 100 at any of your pollution can affect them even before not have any beneficial effect on designated locations. they are born. cardiopulmonary fitness. When air pollution is very high, you Here are more facts about the source: Chinese University of should limit your child’s exposure by effects of air pollution that might Hong Kong reducing their outdoor exercise. surprise you: • Babies and toddlers who live in You can also watch a video of • Pregnant women who are exposed areas with moderate air pollution Professor Anthony Hedley, one of the to air pollutants have shown an may have a higher risk of middle- world’s leading experts on child health increased risk of giving birth ear infection than those breathing and environmental toxicity, to learn more prematurely and having babies with cleaner air. about the short and long term impacts low birth weight. Air toxins, such as source: American Journal of of air pollution on children’s health carbon monoxide, are also linked to Epidemiology (www.youtube.com/watch?v=q76- increased risk of infant mortality. • Young children exposed to nickel, gICUoBU). source: UCLA Institute of the vanadium and black carbon, which Please support Clean Air Network. Environment and Sustainability originate from vehicle exhaust, We are the leading clean air NGO in • Air pollution can have long-lasting often wheeze or cough. Hong Kong. Visit our website (www. effects on the mental development source: American Journal of hongkongcan.org) for unrivalled of an unborn child. Children whose Respiratory and Critical Care resources about air pollution, health, mothers were exposed to roadside Medicine policy and news, or email us at pollution during pregnancy were • Living close to highways and [email protected] to receive our shown to have lower IQs (by major roads (e.g. within 300 to newsletter by email. You can also approximately four points). 500 metres) has been shown to invite us to speak at your school or source: American Journal of exacerbate, or even cause the corporation. Pediatrics development of, asthma in children. Finally, you CAN make a difference • Children born to mothers who live source: Occupational and by donating to CAN today! close to freeways have been shown Environmental Medicine to have twice the risk of developing • Exposure to air pollution within autism. 100 metres of a busy main road source: Environmental Health increases the risk of contracting Perspectives pneumonia by 65 per cent. www.hongkongcan.org

April 2011 33 34 Playtimes Sick building, sick you?

If you or your family are experiencing many of the following symptoms regularly, you could be suffering from Sick Building Syndrome: • irritation and itching of the eyes • irritation of the nose and throat • runny or congested nose • other flu-like symptoms • chest tightness • itchy skin, occasionally with the development of rash • headaches • lethargy • poor concentration • irritability the inside story The air inside your home can be up to 70 per cent more polluted than the air outside. How do we protect our families at home and in school? asks Elle Kwan.

hese days it’s pretty easy to tell when pollution or VOCs. Smoke from tobacco, incense, candles and cooking outside is bad. Just look out the window. also releases irritants. What many of us don’t realise is that air Itchy eyes, nose and throat, runny nose, chest tightness quality inside is up to 70 per cent more polluted and poor concentration are just a few of the conditions listed than those balled up yellow clouds we see by the Hong Kong Indoor Air Quality Management Group that Tclogging our skies – and that those clouds have a significant make up Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). Said to be more impact on the air we are breathing inside. evident in air-conditioned rooms than ones that are naturally “Outdoor air quality ultimately determines indoor air ventilated, SBS symptoms are likely to dramatically reduce or quality. If the outdoor air is bad, indoor air won’t be much disappear when a person leaves an infected room or building. better in the long run since indoor environments draw air from Beyond SBS, illnesses associated with poor air include the outside,” says Christine Loh, the founder of Hong Kong respiratory, lung and cardiovascular diseases. policy think tank Civic Exchange. Children are particularly sensitive to conditions associated Urban dwellers spend between 70 and 90 per cent of their with poor indoor air quality (IAQ). In May 2010, the China time indoors. That means, for most of us, our total exposure Centre for Disease Control and Prevention released a study to pollution will come from air breathed in our homes, schools stating that annually more than two million Chinese deaths and other indoor locations, such as after-school activity centres. Now, leading experts and parents are hoping to raise awareness of the potential pollutants in our homes, and are targeting schools to take action.

Prime indoor polluters Cosmetics we apply, pets we keep, electronics we use and how we decorate and clean our homes and schools can all contribute to a build-up of bad indoor air, releasing fungi, mould, fibres and particles called volatile organic compounds,

April 2011 35 Breathe easy

Ilse Massenbauer-Strafe shows us eight ways to were related to health problems caused by indoor air pollution. reduce bad air build-up at home today. Of these, nearly half were in children under five. 1. Remove shoes: Keeping shoes out of the house limits outside dirt, bacteria, chemical residue and Inside out other “nasties” from entering your home. Government and health bodies usually recommend alleviating 2. Cleaning products: Heavy-duty cleaners and bad air build-up by opening a window, allowing “fresh air” polishes often leave chemical residue on surfaces to circulate. But in October, children’s doctor Aaron Yu told and can release toxins into the air. Always check Bloomberg News that a noticeably higher amount of children labels and seek out healthier alternatives. attend the Caritas Medical Centre in Kowloon, where the 3. Plants: Air-cleaning plants like bamboo palm consultant is based, with respiratory problems, asthma, or Chinese evergreen are effective in mopping bronchitis or chest infections when pollution is high. Throwing up chemicals from the air and improving overall open a window to invite in toxic pollution seems a confusing indoor air quality. paradox. 4) Candles: Replace paraffin candles that emit toxic “Filthy air outdoors means filthy air indoors,” says chemicals with clean-burning beeswax or soybean Professor Anthony Hedley, the former chair professor of options. community medicine at the University of Hong Kong. Professor 5) Air purifiers: Research before purchasing an Hedley pioneered the Hedley Environmental Index, a website air filter. Be sure that yours meets World Health that tracks the territory’s pollution levels, but left Hong Organization standards for indoor air quality and Kong last year for the Isle of Man – a location with almost does not release toxic emissions such as ozone, no pollution. He says outside pollution enters our living and or increase carbon dioxide levels. working spaces through infiltration and ventilation systems. 6) Furniture: Choose a brand with an ISO 14000 These systems “bring bad quality air indoors,” he says. Once qualification. A good brand should tell you the inside, air conditioners merely regurgitate polluted air. composition of organic compounds on the packaging. 7) Paint: If your home is in need of a lick of paint, make sure you use “Green Seal” certified paint, or look for non-VOC options. 8) Flooring: Hardwood, stone, bamboo or tile are the best flooring choices. Carpets should Cleaning air at home be avoided, unless they are There are some simple steps to combat bad air, says Professor made from wool – a natural dust-mite repellent. Hedley. Choosing furniture carrying an ISO 14000 qualification and using paint carrying a Green Seal label is beneficial, he says. Even growing plants such as bamboo palm can help clear viruses. Ilse, along with other clean air supporters, wants the the air. Yet one of the most obvious choices – employing an air government to enforce legislation that meets WHO standards, purifying system – can have adverse effects. not merely recommend it. Mother-of-two, Ilse Massenbauer-Strafe, is a long- term Hong Kong expatriate originally from Austria. Shocked Making the grade: IAQ in school at statistics surrounding pollution here, Ilse set about Government results show that cleaner air in the workplace researching air purifiers to install at home. The information she results in less employee absenteeism and improved found was alarming. performance. With today’s pressure on students to succeed The hepa and electrostatic filters commonly found academically, clean air could aid results as well as ensure on the market filter just two out of the nine World Health well-being. The government offers benchmarks for clean air Organization-listed pollutants, and are unable to tackle tiny standards, but schools have been slow to act. UFPs, or ultra-fine particles, pollutant gases and viruses found “They don’t do anything unless there is a complaint,” in the air. Ionisers and others systems using UV rays can says Kong-Sang Tso, the director of the Indoor Air Quality actually introduce emissions, including carbon dioxide, radon Association’s Hong Kong chapter. Despite recent viral and ozone. “When consumers purchase air filters, they don’t outbreaks and pandemics, how schools deal with their realise they are not getting a complete clean-air solution that environments is less than encouraging. “They don’t want to meets WHO standards,” says Ilse. clean up properly,” says Kong-Sang. “Chlorine and bleach they She formed a company selling a product that does meet use is bad for you; it’s banned by the Environmental Protection them. Ilse discovered a German technology being used to Agency in the US.” clean air in hospitals, and used it to create a range of filters For parents wishing to take action, the director offers that can be used at home, at work and in schools. In an simple, straightforward advice. “If you want to find out how good independent comparison test conducted by the Hong Kong the air is, ask the principal if they’ve done any IAQ assessments, Government’s Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, what precautions are in place, and what maintenance Ilse’s Oxyvital systems were found three to six times more procedures they use. Are they using bleach, or an EPA-approved effective than others in reducing airborne bacteria, mould and cleaning agent? Ask them, and see what they say.”

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eating green Get healthy while you help save the planet, writes Davide Butson-Fiori.

hat we eat matters – not only to us, but The NRDC estimates that if all we eliminated just one quarter- also to the world we live in. Growing, pound serving of beef per week, the reduction in carbon gas processing, transporting and packing emissions would be equivalent to taking four to six million cars food uses up an enormous amount of off the road! resources, especially energy and water. Our four-legged friends are not the only culprits. Seafood It’sW easy to overlook the environmental impacts of the food we can also have an impact. Apparently not all fishing fleets are on eat because they are spread across all stages of production, the up and up, and open-ocean ones depend entirely on dirty from the farm, to harvesting, to food production and delivery. fossil fuels that emit millions of tonnes of CO2 each year. But each additional process can contribute to the destruction of natural resources, carbon emissions and pollution. Buy organic Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables can retain Choose climate-friendly food pesticides even after washing and cooking. Conventional Foods that require extensive processing tend to use up more agriculture, which is often dependent on the intensive use of energy and have a larger carbon footprint. According to the synthetic chemicals such as fertilisers and pesticides, can US-based Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), the have a negative impact on air, water and soil quality. Many carbon footprint for a hamburger, for example, includes fossil widely used pesticides have been linked to an increased risk fuels that went into producing the fertiliser and pumping the of cancer and reproductive problems. irrigation water to grow the corn that fed the cow, and may But there are alternatives to conventional agriculture. also include emissions that result from converting forestland Innovative farmers have adopted more sustainable farming to grazing land. Meat from ruminant animals (cows, goats and systems, reducing the need for synthetic pesticides and sheep) has a particularly large carbon footprint because of the fertilisers. By shopping for organic or other sustainably methane released from the animals’ digestion and manure. certified foods, you can support their efforts.

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Buy local A typical Hong Kong meal contains ingredients from more than five countries, with some ingredients travelling thousands of miles. Buying local, when possible, is a good bet for reducing pollution and the energy used to transport, store and refrigerate food. When all other factors are equal, choosing local food is good for the planet, good for your health and good for local farmers.

Watch your waste Hong Kong produces a lot of waste. We seem to want to throw everything away! And a hefty percentage of this, about 30 per cent, is food. Some 2,995 tonnes of food waste are disposed of at landfills each day, where it releases polluting methane gas as it decomposes, further contributing to CO2 production. So purchase only the amount of food you are able to consume before it expires. Plastic for packaging and shopping presents another waste problem. Help reduce our plastic waste by bringing your own bags on shopping trips. Many of us do this already for some items, but we should bring an extra tote at all times, for all shopping. Keep in mind the hidden waste, too: for every packaged product there is another two-thirds of waste we don’t see, including secondary packaging – the cases and boxes products are packaged in – and transit packaging – like the wooden boards, plastic wrap and containers that are used to transport these goods. It is said that for every shipping container of packaged goods, there are another two containers’ worth of waste created in getting them to the supermarket. And, finally, remember to recycle. Collect your recyclables and find time to toss them in those designated bins all over the NASM-certified personal trainer Davide Butson-Fiori city. You won’t collect a refund or payment for it in Hong Kong, is the founder of Circuit 25. Members swear by his but you’ll know that you’re contributing to the overall well-being unique, outdoor, group personal training workout that of your city. reduces your biological age and helps you and the One person can make a difference in this world. Let it earth – his business is all outdoors: no electricity, no be you. air-conditioners – get in the best shape ever!

April 2011 41 walk on the wild side This spring, exercise your green fingers and discover your inner eco-warrior, writes Sarah Simpson.

e all know we should buy energy-reducing waterfalls, I joined a class of P5 students from Kowloon Junior products and shop locally. Even if we’re School to take part in the “Charming Farming” workshop. In a not the greenest family on our block, luscious valley at the foot of an old village house are plateaus we know we should reduce, reuse and of farmland tended almost exclusively by visiting groups and recycle. But for kids growing up in a city, families. Standing amongst all of this untamed beauty it’s easy theW reasons why we should do all of this become foggy and are to forget that you’re still within of one of the most industrial often left in the realms of theory. It’s a concrete, rather than regions in the world. We soon learnt that the centre is entirely natural jungle that they see day-to-day, and without a true love, self-sustaining and that we would be discovering first-hand the or at least an understanding of our natural world, what is there workings of the organic food process from seed to table. to spur them on to save and protect it? Both local and international schools Hong Kong-wide have Young farmers found their own ways of tackling this issue through a variety After a brief introduction, which included the centre’s “If of educational field trips. One such destination is Ark Eden it’s yellow let it mellow, if it’s brown wash it down” policy on Lantau Island. Just a hop, skip and a jump from Mui Wo (and the resulting giggles), we were ready to get muddy. We Ferry Pier, the centre offers 12 one-day workshops that help were divided into small groups and picked our way down to people of all ages get in touch with their eco-friendly nature. the bottom of the valley. There we participated in activities Established and run by Jenny Quinton, a former ESF primary designed to enhance our understanding of recycling, planting, school teacher who combined her passions for education, stages of growth, composting and cooking. Seeds were Lantau and protecting Hong Kong wildlife, the centre organises sown, plants watered and herbs picked – and then came my programmes that raise awareness of the importance of favourite part: cooking and eating a batch of pesto made sustaining and replenishing our natural resources for both with home-grown herbs on a portion of spaghetti. I could see children and adults alike. looks of pride and surprise on the kids’ faces as they tasted As a born and bred Hong Konger myself, when I heard and enjoyed this mushy green concoction that they’d helped about the centre, I knew I had to investigate. So, one sunny produce. Although a majority of the staff are vegetarians Monday morning I found myself donning my walking boots themselves there’s no feeling of preachiness; rather, they and setting out on a Lantau trail to find the island’s so-called simply offer up the idea that there are yummy alternatives to Garden of Eden. Strolling through rustic villages and up a kids’ favourites. No preservatives, no additives, no artificial winding path through old Chinese archways and along gently flavouring and, of course, no carbon footprint from imported undulating streams formed from the famous Silvermine Bay ingredients.

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For these kids who live in built-up areas of Kowloon, about their abilities in the garden, you’ll set those worries a hands-on trip such as this seemed invaluable. Once the aside as you make your way through a patch of the forest that misconceptions about the cleanliness of the dirt and idea of was planted entirely by an industrious group of four-year-olds. manual labour were taken care of, the whole class, without Aside from the Charming Farming option, further workshops exception, was excited to throw themselves into this back-to- on offer tackle ecological restoration, a guide to sustainable nature day. As the trip came to an end and it was time to rush living, a comprehensive history of oil, an eye-opening study back for the ferry, a trail of happy faces and excited, proud of native plant life, water studies involving rivers, streams, chatter emerged from the wilderness. beaches and wetlands, and lessons on climate change, air pollution, and insects and bugs. When you’re ready to start Showcasing nature your Ark Eden adventure, simply take the Mui Wo ferry from As the sounds of the happy campers dwindled, I sat down Central Pier 6 and you’ll be met by the friendly team on the to a piping hot herbal tea with Jenny. As a 21-year resident other side. of Lantau she has seen the island change significantly over the years, something that inspired her to create Ark Eden. To find out more about Ark Eden, visit “There was so much development that was being earmarked www.arkedenonlantau.com. for Lantau,” she remarks. “This idea that this was the island for leisure Other green days out and recreation, but that leisure and Other popular and worthwhile recreation consisted of theme parks, destinations for green days out golf courses, motor racing tracks, mini include Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Great Walls of China, artificial beaches. Garden and the Hong Kong Wetland So, in starting up the centre, my idea Park. Kadoorie Farm & Botanic was to really showcase Lantau as the Garden offers a collection of streams, garden island of Hong Kong. On the woodlands and vegetable terraces island there are many, many things that built around the island’s tallest you can do. You don’t have to build stuff; mountain, Tai Mo Shan, in Tai Po, New you just have to visit it as it is.” Territories. Encompassing over 148 Complementing the workshops is hectares of land, there are hours of a selection of eco-tours that showcase exploration to be done with seasonal the island’s natural beauty. If you’re exhibitions and activities on offer. With looking for an easy green day out, these the low admission price of $10 and are ideal excursions – available in varying degrees of difficulty children under the age of 12 admitted free, a day here won’t – for families unfamiliar with the treks of Lantau. Spend a day break the bank. For contact and exhibition information, check under waterfalls, observing the roaming wild water buffalo, on out www.kfgb.org or call the hotline on 2483 7200. deserted beaches, or splashing through the rice paddies and The Hong Kong Wetland Park is situated in nearby Tin Shui marshes to truly get in touch with the burgeoning wildlife in Wah in the New Territories. Set against the background of the our own backyard. Although not as educationally intensive as looming Tin Shui Wah New Town development, the park is a workshops, these tours are important in establishing a sense breath of fresh air built around a collection of waterways and of respect and enjoyment between walker and the wild – the education centres. Don’t miss out on the hands-on exhibits first step towards an environmentally positive conscience. and the indoor play area that’s designed to reflect swamp There are no designated times or dates for the various lands. Adult tickets cost $30 for a day pass, children between programmes, which allows flexibility when you plan your trip. the ages of three and 18 are $15, and little tikes under three Although the workshops are ideal for large school classes, get in for free. Visit www.wetlandpark.com or call 3152 2666 private groups are also catered for and tailored to according for a full list of activities and attractions. to age group. If you have young children and have reservations

April 2011 45 the great outdoors A family-style escape from the concrete jungle is less than an hour away, says Michael Hansen.

hough you’d never know it walking around pleasures of light hiking. Manageable in an hour or two, these Central, Hong Kong is truly a great place to go routes allow walkers to enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenes hiking. About 75 per cent of Hong Kong’s 1,092 of the countryside. Most family walks are designed as circular square kilometres of land is generally too steep walks so that hikers can return back to the original point. and mountainous to be developed, and so has Amongst these are the walks circling the Hok Tau and the Ho remainedT in a relatively wild state. No other territory in the Pui Reservoirs in the New Territories. world has so much land – almost 40 per cent of its total area – The suggested routes below are a bit more challenging, committed to conservation and recreation. but any energetic child aged about seven or above would have Scenically, Hong Kong has a great deal to offer the no problems completing these hikes. While each of the three intrepid hiker: a landscape rising from sandy beaches and hikes could be completed in a good day out, it would also be rocky foreshores to heights of almost 1,000 metres. You possible to turn them into a whole weekend escape. will find woodlands and mountain ranges covered by open grassland, impressive wetlands and a variety of scenic vistas. Hong Kong’s greener side is even more attractive because you don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy Most family walks are it and everything is reachable in less than an hour by public designed“ as circular walks so that transport. It’s accessible to all, including our children. Indeed, a number of trails within the country parks have even been hikers can return back to the labelled “family walks” and are designed around gentle slopes and mild lengths to allow people of all ages to enjoy the original point. ” 46 Playtimes Tai Tan Hoi, Wan Tsai Peninsula & Hoi Ha Wan overnight would also give you time to explore the Wan Tsai The northern part of the Sai Kung Country Park sees fewer Nature Trail, a two-kilometre-long trail along which you learn visitors than the beaches around Tai Long Wan, but it offers about the biological, geographical and geological value of the a number of great hiking trails that are suitable for young and area. novice hikers. The Tai Tan Country Trail is one of these. From the bus stop at Ko Tong Ha Yeung, walk down the access road Distances: Ko Tong Ha Yeung to Hoi Ha: 6.75 km to Tai Tan Village, where you’ll walk past the house named Wan Tsai Peninsula South Lok Ness to catch up with the Country Trail near distance Camp Site to Hoi Ha: 1.5 km post C5402. In the beginning, your dirt trail sticks close to the Wan Tsai Nature Trail: 2 km water, but later it does climb a little. All along though, you are Getting there: Monday to Saturday, catch KMB Route 94 treated to superb views over Tai Tan Hoi, Sharp Peak and Tap from Sai Kung Bus Terminus (towards Wong Mun Island. Shek Pier) and get off at Ko Tong Ha Yeung. On As you approach the Wan Tsai Peninsula, the trail heads Sundays, you can catch KMB Route 96R from westward and – eventually – ends at the village of Hoi Ha Diamond Hill MTR Station. – home to what is probably Hong Kong’s most child-friendly Getting home: Green Minibus 7 links Hoi Ha Village with the beach. The clear waters of Hoi Ha are also part of the Hoi Ha Sai Kung Bus Terminus every 30 minutes. Wan Marine Park and house a number of coral reefs – an ideal Alternatively, on the weekends, a great little destination on warm sunny days. ferry runs every hour from near the Wan Tsai To truly enjoy this great little corner of Hong Kong, you South campsite to the pier at Wong Shek. There might be interested in staying overnight at the Wan Tsai is a KMB bus (Route 94) every 30 minutes from Peninsula (South) Camp Site. This is Hong Kong’s most Wong Shek to Sai Kung town. On Sundays, you developed camp site and features pavilions, barbecue pits can go all the way to the Diamond Hill MTR and benches, as well as bathing and toilet facilities. Staying Station on KMB bus 96R.

April 2011 47

Plover Cove Country Park other than the stream. Not easily accessible and largely uninhabited, Hong Kong’s Alternatively, you could rent one of the air-conditioned, north-eastern villages are ideal field locations for studying multi-bed rooms at the Fook Lee Tea House. Call or text Mr the heritage, economic transitions and ecological changes of Tsang on 9789 8295 for reservations and more information. the country’s rural districts. This walk will take you through Hot water showers and flushing Western-style toilets add to mountain valleys, around old fields, along rocky shores of your comfort. small inlets and past abandoned villages. Staying overnight at Sam A not only gives you the Setting out from the car park or minibus terminus at opportunity to watch the sun rising beyond the islands of the the old village of Wu Kau Tang, you’ll enter the Plover Cove tranquil marine park, it would also allow you a side trip (four Country Park just after the spooky village of Kau Tam Tso. kilometres round trip) the next morning to Lai Chi Wo – a Peeping through windows, you’ll notice chinaware in the traditional old Hakka walled village built more than 300 years cabinets, bottles on tables and photos of grandparents still ago. The village boasts a temple honouring Guan Di (God of on the walls. War) and an ancient mangrove forest. With their network of Heading east towards the shore on the upper route, after interweaving buttress roots, the coastal heritiera trees make reaching the dirt trail, you’ll pass the ruins of Lai Tau Shek for a very impressive sight. before reaching Sam A Tsuen at the edge of the Yan Chau Tong Marine Park, where you can enjoy a wonderful cooked meal at Distances: Wu Kau Tang to Sam A Tsuen the Fook Lee Tea House. (via Lui Ta Shek): 5.25 km While there’s no beach at Sam A, it would be possible to Sam A Tsuen to Lai Chi Wo go for a swim off the village pier before continuing south along to Sam A Tsuen: 4 km the mangrove-clad, multi-coloured shoreline of Sam A Wan. Sam A Tsuen to Wu Kau Tang The trail then turns inland at the Sam A campsite and you’ll (via Ha Miu Tin): 5.5 km return to Wu Kau Tang by way of the ruins of Ha Miu Tin and Getting there: The easiest option is to take a taxi from Tai Po Sheung Miu Tin. Market Station to Wu Kau Tang. The ride takes If you have the time, however, you could stay overnight in about 20 minutes and costs about $100. Sam A. The campsite at Sam A Chung is situated on a small Getting home: Green Minibus 20C links Wu Kau Tang with hill by the side of a stream and captures the picturesque Tai Po Market every 90 to 120 minutes view of Yan Chau Tong (Double Haven), which consists of on weekdays and every 40 to 60 minutes three islands: Wong Wan Chau (Double Island), Ngo Mei Chau on Sundays and public holidays. The last (Crescent Island) and Kat O Chau. A wide variety of landforms, minibus departs around 6pm. Alternatively, like rock cliffs, sand pits and geomorphologic features, creates ask the owners of the little store next to the a unique and ideal spot to pitch a tent. With room for just four village playground to call a taxi for you. (Their tents, the site has barbecue pits, benches and tables, drains, willingness to do so increases if you buy a drink clotheslines and a dry toilet. However, there is no water source or two from them!).

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Please note that you are not able to reserve tent spaces at the campsites of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. First come, first served only.

at one of the waterfront stores before catching the ferry back to Ma Liu Shui. Note that the ferry leaves at 5:15pm sharp and you are advised to be on time, unless you fancy an overnight stay on the island. And staying overnight is definitely an option worth considering. There is a very basic campsite next to the Kang Lau Shek, a spectacular rock formation overlooking the sea. The site has barbecue pits, benches and tables, drains, clotheslines, pavilions and a dry toilet. Apart from the multitude of shrub, the site is also surrounded by various Tung Ping Chau vegetation typically found on a beach. There is also a huge More than ten kilometres away from any other part of wave-cut platform adjacent to the campsite, where you can lie Hong Kong and almost within swimming reach of the coast on the ground to watch the moonlight or the sunrise. of Guangdong, Tung Ping Chau is formed from layers of Should you want slightly more comfortable lodgings, the sedimentary rock tilting down to the sea on the east coast and Sun Cheong Store (2666 9915) offers a number of rooms upwards into low cliffs on the west coast. The island’s main equipped with felt beds, a fan and a light at very reasonable attractions are these unique rock formations, the abandoned rates. You are also welcome to use the restaurant’s (cold villages and the beaches. water) showers and toilets. Your journey will begin when you board the 9am Tsui Wah Ferry at Ma Liu Shui. The ferry chugs out through the Distances: University Station to Tolo Channel, leaving land behind at Bluff Head, and makes a Ma Liu Shui: 1 km beeline towards the coast of China, arriving at the pier at Wong Tung Ping Chau Circuit: 6.5 km Ye Kok about 90 minutes later. Getting there: The Tsui Wah Ferry departs Ma Liu Shui Pier at Once on the island, I suggest an anti-clockwise 9am on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays circumnavigation of the island as this would take you away only. Allow about 20 minutes to walk to the pier from the general crowds. Start by walking along the beach, from University Station (on the East Rail line). which offers views of a typical South China coastline, fringed Getting home: The Tsui Wah Ferry departs Tung Ping Chau with low resort-type buildings constructed from the quarry- at 5:15pm (sharp) and reaches Ma Liu Shui scarred hillsides behind. Soon, however, you will be looking around 6:45pm. at some more interesting natural wonders, such as Chop Neck Point and the Watchtower Rocks. Check out the recently renovated Tin Hau and Tam Kung temples as well as Tung Ping Chau’s old main village, before settling in for a cooked meal at the Sun Cheong Store. For more information on the hikes mentioned above or After lunch, you will have a couple of hours to explore the for other ideas on hiking or cycling in Hong Kong, email rest of the island, to swim or simply to relax with a cold drink Michael Hansen at [email protected].

April 2011 51 girl power

If you thought rugby season ended with the Sevens, think again. It’s time to cheer on the girls and young ladies who continue to play even after some of the boys have wilted in the sun, says Playtimes’ publisher and HKU Sandy Bay RFC Coach David Tait.

uch of the brouhaha surrounding the In recent seasons, girls have been particularly drawn to Sevens brings to mind activities other clubs with established girls’ sections including: DeA, Discovery than the rugby itself. But despite what Bay Pirates, Flying Kukris, and HK Football Club, HKU Sandy you may think you know about game, the Bay and Sai Kung Stingrays for the under-nine through rugby ethos – fair play, leadership, respect, under-12 age groups. Aberdeen, Hong Kong East and Valley Mstrength of the individual character and his or her overall Fort are all building new sections. These clubs train and build contribution to the greater good of the team – are all values up squads of young girls who compete enthusiastically with that many parents would like to see instilled in their children. each other throughout the season. In Hong Kong, there are fewer opportunities to get involved “We’ve been very excited by the growth in girls’ and in other organised team sports than in some places, so you women’s rugby over the past few years, the result of a lot of might just consider rugby. hard work from both the Union and all the clubs and schools Girls aged four years and older can join one of Hong who devote a massive amount of time and energy to nurturing Kong’s 18 mini rugby clubs. Here they are introduced to the our community game” says Robbie McRobbie, Head of sport and taught in a safe and fun environment. Many clubs Community and Development for HKRFU. ask for parents to volunteer as coaches or assistants, which The women’s game in Hong Kong is administered by the gives a great opportunity for you (dads in particular!) to spend Mini Rugby Union, the Girls Youth Committee, the Schools quality time with your children. The coaches follow a pathway Committee, and the Women’s Rugby Committee, with the of training under the auspices of the Hong Kong Rugby Football support of the HKRFU’s Community Rugby Department. An Union (HKFRU) and the International Rugby Board (IRB). There excellent way to see the ongoing development of the women’s is a lot more to it than just turning budding ballerinas and game is to attend the annual All Girls Rugby Tournament, which princesses in to snarling juggernauts of adrenalin! will be held on 9 April this year. The event brings together the Training starts with modified touch rugby and advances entire community from minis through to the national teams. to the contact form of the game by the time they reach age eight. Initially, boys and girls play in mixed teams, but from the age of eight there is an option to play in all girls teams, both For more information visit some of these sites: at training and at the annual six mini festivals. The season www.hkrugby.com lasts from September through April, and games are played in www.hkusandybayrfc.org- formats ranging from seven to 12 per side. www.dbpirates.com “I like to play against other girls teams. We win and they www.hkfc.com are not as silly as boys,” says young player Lizzy Marland, aged www.saikungstingrays.com nine, clearly a fan of the all girls option. www.flyingkukris.com When they turn 12, the girls graduate to girls youth rugby, www.deatigersrfc.com which is divided into age groups of under-14, 16 and 19. There is also an active schools scene playing seven- a-side games With special thanks to HKRFU, HKU Sandy Bay RFC, Discovery in a structured league format. At the age of 18, girls can join a Bay Pirates for providing information, and to Fiona Faure for senior women’s team playing in the adult domestic leagues. supplying images.

52 Playtimes There is a lot more to it than“ just turning budding ballerinas and princesses in to snarling juggernauts of adrenalin!”

I love girls rugby and“ know we could beat the boys easily if Girls’ rugby is we had to. growing in profile Issy” Pierson-Smith (U9/10) “ year on year and the commitment shown by the girls is awesome. ” Steve Kean Head Coach U9/10 Girls Discovery Bay Pirates

Cheer the girls at Hong Kong’s All Girls Tournament at Kings Park on 9 April, hosted by Sai Kung Stingrays RFC. literacy: how to teach an unnatural skill Literacy is a term that rarely enters our consciousness until our child starts his first year of primary school. Even then, we may not give it much thought if he is picking up reading and writing at the same rate as his peers, only looking deeper into the subject if our child is struggling. In this, the second in a series of three articles, Freya Simpson Giles examines the various methods for teaching reading, with particular emphasis on phonics.

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For parents who wish to learn more about the s dedicated parents, most of us are keen to be acquisition of reading skills, Maryanne Wolf’s book involved in our children’s learning processes. Proust and the Squid: The Story and Science of the We feel a great sense of accomplishment every Reading Brain is an in-depth but readable look at the time little Johnny masters a new skill that we development of the reading brain. It includes many have been trying to impress upon him. That entertaining anecdotes along with some shocking Asaid, few of us envy our children’s teachers the daunting task facts. of teaching them how to read. Teaching children an alphabet containing 26 letters, each capable of making a number of different sounds, not to mention the many, many vagaries of the English language, seems like a mammoth task. And assumptions about what literacy is and how it is best learned parents aren’t the only ones who think so. Literacy expert by students. and ground-breaking researcher Maryanne Wolf states in her Approaches to teaching alphabetic languages include seminal text Proust and the Squid that the process of learning phonics, which teaches the alphabet and the sounds each to read is “nothing short of a miracle”. letter represents before combining sounds; the “look and The fact is, the acquisition of reading skills is still not say” approach, which teaches children to recognise whole fully understood. Unlike the development of speech, it is words or sentences; the “language experience” approach, not a natural process. Instead, it requires mastering a code which involves writing down a child’s own words so that they that uses written symbols to represent human speech. It remember them better; and the “context support” method, is generally accepted, although not without exception, that which involves the student focusing on two or three key words learning to read requires instruction. Here opinions divide while the teacher reads a longer sentence. further and reading instruction comes in any number of forms, each different approach being shaped by its informing Sound it out Although it has fallen in and out of favour, phonics is probably the best known and most widely used method to teach reading and writing in the English language. Phonics instruction itself also comes in different forms. Two traditional methods are analytical phonics and embedded phonics. Analytical phonics encourages children to analyse phonemes (or speech sounds) in a set of words. For example, they might discuss how the words hat, hard and hen are alike. Embedded phonics teaches novice readers about the individual letters in words opportunistically, within the context of stories or student writing. However, the most widely discussed form of phonics instruction in recent years must surely be synthetic phonics. This method quickly and systematically teaches children the 44 sounds in the English language and their corresponding letters or letter groups. Students then learn to blend these sounds to read and write words. It is code-breaking reduced to its simplest form.

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In the UK, a mixture of analytical and synthetic phonics new skills in general, was amazed at the speed with which her was used up until the 1970s, when phonics was abandoned little girl picked up reading after starting a reading programme altogether. In the years following this change, reading abilities based on synthetic phonics. Since 2006, synthetic phonics in primary school children declined and growing research has been adopted by over 80 per cent of English-language showing the effectiveness of synthetic phonics began to schools in Hong Kong. receive attention. Synthetic phonics was reintroduced and Despite its apparent success, synthetic phonics has its became mandatory practice for all primary schools in 2007. critics. Since the synthetic phonics system teaches sounds in It is also the recommended practice in both the US and isolation and out of context, some believe that it could prevent Australia. children from developing a love of reading. Critics point out Here in Hong Kong, synthetic phonics was introduced that a passion for language is vital and must be gleaned from at Clearwater Bay ESF Primary School in 2006 by then vice understanding stories and being able to think critically about principal Jo-Anne Dooner and some of her brave peers. The them. While Jo-Anne Dooner is in complete agreement that programme proved to be an instant success as every single fostering a love of reading is a vital part of literacy teaching, year-one student mastered reading and writing to an age- she says this is not at odds with synthetic phonics in practice. Instead, Jo-Anne is keen to point out that synthetic phonics should be taught as part of a balanced literacy programme, the aims of which should include phonemic awareness, synthetic phonics, vocabulary knowledge, reading fluency and comprehension. “At Clearwater Bay School,” she explains, “around one-third of the class time devoted to literacy is spent working on phonics.” While methods of teaching reading and writing have evolved over time and will probably continue to do so, it seems that synthetic phonics is here to stay for the time being. Despite the criticism, it has earned a place in Hong Kong’s education system by virtue of its high success rate, shedding valuable light on the mystery of literacy acquisition. appropriate level. Jo-Anne, a literacy expert with over 20 In the final article in this series, we will look at the years of teaching experience, believes the results speak for practical ways that parents can help their children develop themselves. strong reading and writing skills as well as the importance of Jo-Anne claims that synthetic phonics is fast, efficient and talking. effective. Reports show that a child will learn 30 phonemes in just 16 weeks. Research also shows that synthetic phonics works even for groups that are traditionally more likely to find reading difficult, such as boys, ESL (English as a second language) learners and children with special educational needs. Anecdotal evidence would seem to support this claim. Jo-Anne Dooner is also the co-founder of Get Reading One local mother, whose daughter had consistently reached Right, a great source of information and resources. developmental milestones late and struggled with acquiring Click www.getreadingright.com.hk to learn more.

April 2011 59 60 Playtimes The home of this Australian family of five is filled with treasured finds, curios and books collected from around the globe.

photography Melanie Adamson words & styling Ingrid Keneally

April 2010 61 tep inside the apartment of Kate and Neil McDonald, which is also home to their three children, Isabella, SJoe and Toby, and their much-loved dog, Milo. With a love for all things eclectic and quirky, Kate decorated her older-style Shouson Hill apartment by merging Asian pieces with both modern accessories and interesting market finds. “I’m not really interested in ordinary furniture that has no character and is strictly functional,” says Kate, a freelance photographer and journalist, who is currently studying for her master’s degree in journalism. “I love bold colours and old things with a sense of history. I like to create little nooks and spaces which are unique, inviting and fun.’’ A resident of Hong Kong for the past ten years, Kate says her family loves living in Shouson Hill because of its close proximity to both Central and the bays and hikes on the south side. “As well, our apartment offers us complete privacy. We feel as if we’re living in a tree house as every window offers a green view,’’ says Kate. Inspired by art, photography, travel and textures, Kate says her favourite space in the apartment is the living room because “it’s peaceful and has uninterrupted views over the treetops across to Aberdeen and the Peak. It’s by no means a designer home, but it’s an authentic mix of the old and the new, and it’s filled with the things I’ve been collecting over the years. Some may not like the mix of styles, but, for us, it’s home.”

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styling & words Ingrid Keneally photography Belinda Bath models Sienna, Zavier & Grace location Classified cafe, 13 Yuk Sau Street, Happy Valley

O for Organic Natural style heats up for the little ones with hits of colour, edge and plain, strong shapes.

Sienna wears No Added Sugar tea time t-shirt, $219, and battenberg skirt, $490, both from Hip Little Bubba. Zavier wears Imps & Elfs organic cotton mustard t-shirt, £25, with checked shorts, £25, both from La Fille Unique. Grace wears Zozio blue and orange organic cotton slip dress, $900, from Storytime. Alessi egg- cup and vintage French saucepans are stylist’s own. Sienna wears grey organic cardigan with lace detail, $145, from Muji, and Zozio black pantalon pants, $630, from Storytime. Grace wears Circle dusk and navy striped organic dress, $400, also from Storytime. Zavier wears Animal Tails babygrow with floral print rabbit, $235, from Mumma and Bubba Basics. Wooden family toy is stylist’s own.

April 2011 67 Sienna wears Coco and Ginger Alba organic cotton dress, $420, from Hip Little Bubba. Zolima organic cotton mini suitcases, $480, from Zolima, and wooden extinct species in a bag, $120, from Muji.

68 Playtimes March 2011 68 Grace wears Imps & Elfs red and white striped organic cotton cardigan, £32, from La Fille Unique, and No Added Sugar organic cotton blue tea time t-shirt, $219, from Hip Little Bubba. Grace wears purple harem pants, $270, from Hip Little Bubba, and carries Zolima messenger bag in mustard with floral detail, $390, available at Offspring and Babushka. White vest is stylist’s own. Zavier wears organic cotton yellow diamond t-shirt with natural background, $280, from Storytime, with organic blue and white striped cotton shorts, $290, from Hip Little Bubba.

April 2011 71 Grace wears Juliette organic cotton shoe-string dress, $320, from Hip Little Bubba. Zavier wears organic cotton white long-sleeved button-shirt, $180, with organic denim jeans, $180, both from Muji.

74 Playtimes easter delights Annabel Karmel shares two of her favourite Easter recipes.

Simnel Cake

Simnel cake is a light fruit cake that is covered in marzipan. Simnel cakes were originally a Mothering Sunday tradition, but are now more popular at Easter and make lovely Easter gifts for friends and family.

200g caster sugar Roll one third (150g) of the 200g butter, softened marzipan out to a 9” circle and place on 250g self-raising flour top of the mixture. Spoon the remaining 4 large eggs cake mixture on top and level. Zest of one orange Bake in the oven for about 1 hour 1 tbsp mixed spice 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until golden 250g sultanas brown and firm to the touch. Remove 150g ready-to-eat dried apricots, from the tin and let cool. chopped into small pieces Meanwhile, roll another third of the 50g stem ginger, finely chopped marzipan out to a 9” circle. When the cake is cold, melt the Topping jam in a small pan, then brush the top 2 tbsp apricot jam of the cake with the jam and place the 450g golden marzipan marzipan circle on top. Divide the remaining third of the Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F. marzipan into 11 pieces (one for each Using a 9” round springform tin, line of the Apostles, minus Judas) and shape the base and grease the sides. into little balls by rolling between your Mix the caster sugar, butter, flour, palms. Position these around the edge eggs, zest and spice together in a mixing of the cake. bowl until smooth. Add the prepared fruit Arrange fresh flowers or flowers and ginger and mix well. Spoon half of the made of icing in the middle of the cake cake mixture into the base of the tin. and decorate to serve.

April 2011 75

Easter Biscuits

The Easter break is a lovely opportunity to cook with your child. These slightly chewy biscuits are fun to make as children love rolling out dough and cutting cookie shapes.

60g butter Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. Place on baking sheets lined with 50g soft brown sugar Beat the butter and sugar with baking paper and bake for about 9 4 tbsp golden syrup an electric whisk until pale. Add the minutes. Allow to cool, then transfer to a 150g plain flour, sifted golden syrup, flour, ginger, egg yolk and wire rack to cool completely. 1 tsp ground ginger bicarbonate of soda and beat together Once cool, warm the apricot 1 egg yolk until you form a dough. Wrap in cling film jam in a small pan or in a bowl in the 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda and chill for at least 30 minutes. microwave until runny, and sieve. Brush On a floured work surface, roll the a little jam in the centre of each biscuit Decoration dough out to a thickness of about 3mm. and scatter over some sprinkles or 2 tbsp apricot jam Start in the centre of the dough and roll desiccated coconut. Use silver balls for Coloured sprinkles or desiccated evenly outwards. Cut into bunny shapes eyes and noses and attach sugar flowers coconut using cookie cutters from the outside with a blob of the writing icing. Do the Silver balls edges of the dough into the centre, same with the mini Sugar flowers cutting as closely together as possible. marshmallow for White writing icing Re-roll the trimmings until all the dough the bunny’s tail. Mini marshmallows is used up.

Available for $179 at Bookazine locations, or on www.bookazine.com.hk.

April 2011 77

Development

This month, the Child Development Centre’s team of child psychologists, speech and occupational therapists, physiotherapists, counsellors and teachers answer questions about obsessions.

My son is absolutely obsessed with a certain cartoon character. It’s all he talks about. How can I Q get him out of it? It is quite typical for children to get “hooked” on a certain topic and, actually, it’s a good thing as long A as it does not interfere with the child’s functioning and social communication. That is, the obsession with the cartoon character should not interfere in a negative way with encourage a range of activities based on the book such as his daily activities. For example, is he late for the school bus making a book of her own, drawing, retelling the story, acting it because he has to perform a certain ritual with the character? out with dolls, etc. Or does he refuse to eat unless he has the character-themed As for misplacing the book, there are two ways to deal with cutlery? It also shouldn’t interfere with his social interactions this depending on your personal parenting style. You could with his peers. For example, does he insist on talking about either get another copy to have on hand, just in case, or you the character when other people are talking about something could let her learn a valuable lesson that, in life, not all things else or when his friends are doing something else? Does he are controllable. Things get misplaced and if she does not insist on playing something related to the character and refuse want to lose things, then she is responsible for tidying up and other games? All of these behaviours would indicate that his labelling and taking care of her own possessions. obsession is interfering in a negative way. You could look at ways to make it work to your advantage, for example, by using the character to promote learning or a particular hobby. You can also look at gradually introducing other characters.

My daughter has to read a certain book every night before she sleeps. Once we misplaced the book Q and she was so upset that she cried herself to sleep. What should I do? What is happening?

The answer to this question is closely A related to the first question. Children love “sameness” because it makes them feel safe in a world that seems very confusing and always changing. I would first suggest that every night you start introducing another new book. You can read her favourite one but also insist that before you read her favourite one, you first read another book of her choice. Again, as above, use it to your advantage to

April 2011 79 Sponsors Organiser

Mark your calendars! Monday, 9 May 2011 Attention all entrants and teachers: the date has been set. All schools will be notified of the shortlisted entries before the end of this month! The anticipation is building … Who will be named Hong Kong’s Young Writer of 2011?

Monday, 9 May 2011 Refreshments will be served at 3pm. The ceremony will begin at approximately 3:30pm. Wei Hing Theatre, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of the Awards, please email Jo Allum, [email protected]. www.hkywa.com My child likes to make weird sounds and he can’t stop. It’s very embarrassing when we’re in public Q places like restaurants and on the MTR. Help! To help, I would need to ask you to try to figure out why your child is making those weird sounds A and to decrease the causal factor. Does he do it at school, at home, when he is having fun, etc.? Your child may be anxious about something or he may be bored. It is also very likely that upon making those weird sounds, he has received a lot of immediate adult attention; therefore, the behaviour has been unintentionally reinforced. Without knowing more about the situation or his age, I would be able to make a few limited suggestions. Explain to him that it is not all right to make those noises and offer an alternative if he is bored, such as playing I-spy, singing songs, playing stone, paper, scissors, playing the “silent game”, etc. You could plan a reward chart for him so that he gets a small, immediate reward of his choice if he lasts a certain time without making weird noises. If he does make a noise, I would ignore it so that you are not drawing attention to it and inadvertently reinforcing it. Start with a short period of time It is also very likely that and slowly increase it. This way, you are turning the emphasis upon“ making those weird onto his not making the noises and away from when he is making them. sounds, he has received a lot of If this does not decrease the behaviour, you may need to seek help from a professional. immediate adult attention. ”

The Child Development Centre provides tailored early intervention for children with developmental or special educational needs. For more information, call 2849 6138 or visit www.cdchk.org.

April 2011 81 hot air rising Encourage your budding scientists with this fun and easy experiment from Science Workshop. Today, they’ll play with balloons and hair dryers. Tomorrow, perhaps they’ll be solving global warming!

In this experiment, you’ll trap air inside a bottle and then heat it with a hair dryer. When air is heated, it expands. The rising temperature inside the bottle will increase, causing the balloon to expand.

You’ll need: • A small plastic bottle • A balloon • A hair dryer

1. Wrap the balloon over the bottle’s opening. 2. Point the hair dryer a few centimetres from the bottle and turn it on. 3. Pay close attention and watch the balloon stand up. stockists

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84 Playtimes MARKETPLACE

April 2011 85 MARKETPLACE

86 Playtimes MARKETPLACE

April 2011 87 LAST WORD

How to be an eco-nazi

Children are a massive drain on the electricity grid, father-of-three Nury Vittachi discovers.

his is a typical text conversation between we went to school to learn maths and English. Today, your columnist and his daughter: ME: Feghi the top subject for my children is: “How to be an eco- t suite hart. Did you findelhok moot nug? HER: nazi: A beginner’s guide.” Hi Dad. What’s findelhok moot nug? Me: What are u The night before writing this, I strolled from my tocking about? HER: You texted me about findelhok room into the living room only to hear my daughter moot nug. I don’t know what this is. ME: I didn’t mean bark at me. “DAD. You didn’t switch off the light. We’re findelhok moot nug. Thats my productive tox pogramme like, trying to save the world here, if you don’t mind?” changing my warts. HER: Oh, I get it. What did you This is my daughter who was at that precise moment mean? watching the computer with one eye, the Nintendo DS ME: I just wilted to nose if you glewrumnop zididy? with another eye, the TV with some sort of invisible HER: Dad. Stop doing text messages. You’re too old. third eye, while fiddling with her iPod with one hand Just call me. and scratching the dog with the other. This child alone Okay, I admit it. I’m too old. I spent 20 minutes consumes 40 per cent of the entire electricity output on the “predictive text” function of my phone and got of the South China grid. When she goes to bed, the absolutely nowhere. And all I was trying to do was turn people at CLP close down a couple of power stations it off. and breathe a sigh of relief. I wish people who invent these things would realise that if a guy spells D.E.A.R., he is probably trying to write the word “dear”. But no. The predictive text people jump to the conclusion that I am writing the word “feghi”. I mean, how many communications of any kind in the history of the world have started with the word “feghi”? I am complaining loudly about this at the Quite Good Noodle Shop when my friend Ian Pen, who should really be called Ian Nick Pen, because then his name would be an anagram of Pain-In-Neck, gives me an answer I don’t want to hear. “Probably a great many,” But of course I did not point out the irony to her. he says. “Feghi is a common first name for boys in Criticising your child is Bad Parenting. I read it in a small towns in southern Egypt.” magazine. They lose their self-esteem and become I respond that it is morally wrong and should be drug addicts, and it’s all the parents’ fault. So I go back illegal for someone in Hong Kong to have so much to my room and turn off the light. arcane knowledge about stuff on the other side of Actually, I’ll tell you the real reason why I am so the world. And besides, even if Feghi was the most nice to her. She’s the only one who will be able to turn common way to start text messages in southern off the “predictive text” function on my mobile phone. Egypt (which I seriously doubt, as I expect he simply If she refuses to do that for me, I will be left with only made up this factoid to annoy me), why should it be one course of action. Move to Egypt and adopt some programmed into my mobile phone in Hong Kong, ten children: all boys named Feghi. thousand kilometres away? His answer was typically glib: “Actually, it’s only about eight thousand kilometres away.” Which leads me to a question. Why is there so much emphasis in society today on the importance of being clever? I find clever people incredibly annoying. School bosses seem to agree with me, because they NURY VITTACHI WRITES A REGULAR HUMOUR have dramatically changed the curriculum. In my day, COLUMN AT WWW.mRjAm.ORg.

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