Summer 2011 30

71 82 features 27 SHANGHAI EXPRESS 63 WE ARE FAMILY A weekend getaway gives one family Take the time to learn about your a glimpse of Shanghai’s mix of history family, before it’s too late. and modern-day marvels. 66 LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX 30 PLAY IT SAFE With swimsuit season upon us, and Summer fun starts with water safety. bodies displayed more freely than normal, your kids might just start 36 SUMMER IN THE CITY asking tough questions. Try these activities to keep the kids entertained. 71 SOFT TOUCH Learn how to give your baby a five-star 42 PACK YOUR BAGS massage at home. PHOTOGRAPHY A bit of planning can make your home Aimee K Photography leave a bit less taxing. 74 HONG KONG YOUNG WRITERS AWARDS 2011 MODEL Annabelle 50 HERE COMES THE SUN Congratulations to all of the winners! Take precautions to keep your kids CLOTHES safe in the sun. 76 STYLISH SPACES Annabelle wears Key Sun Hong Kong has everything you’ll need Zinke, SPF30+, UVA-AVB broad 55 spectrum sun protection, in SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER to transform your child’s bedroom into pink and blue (more colours Lazing by the pool or getting a head a unique and refreshing space. available), $40, Bumps to start on the next academic year? How Babes, and kids pompom should kids spend the summer? 82 HERE COMES SUMMER kaftan, from Sabina Swims. Cool and comfy cottons are perfect for 59 GET OUT, GET FIT long, hot days. Playing isn’t just for kids. Get the family fit while enjoying sunny days 93 ECHOES OF NATURE together. Beat the heat: spend a summer day inside creating wearable art with your kids.

Summer 2011 55 59

66 upfront regulars 10 WHAT’S ON 23 TOY BOX A look at what’s going on around town Toys that celebrate the season this summer 25 BOOKSHELF 12 HAPPY CAMPERS Perfect picks for summer reading Find the perfect summer programme for your kids. 100 THE LAST WORD Nury Vittachi shares his thoughts on 14 HOT OFF THE PRESS computers taking over the world. Hip new shops, services and products information 18 FINGER ON THE PULSE Parenting news from around the world 95 STOCKISTS See something you like? We’ll tell you Bookshelf 21 ECO HERO where to get it. pg 25 Ideas and products for greener living

Toy Box pg 23

Eco Hero pg 21 contributors

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

PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Jo Allum t: 2973 6159 Tina Purvis e: [email protected] Coming from a sleepy town in Hertfordshire, just north of London, Tina’s need to keep on the move stood out like a sore thumb. Early symptoms ADvERTISINg SALES AND DISTRIBUTION Narelle Edwards ranged from bouts of frequent rearrangement of t: 2973 6131 furniture in her bedroom to coaxing and cajoling e: [email protected] her two younger sisters into taking part in her mini theatrical productions. As time moved on, so did her need for speed, and ACCOUNT MANAgER it wasn’t long before she was the proud owner of a 550cc motorbike, Wendy Clarke a Dart catamaran and Golf GTI. However, she gave them all up to take t: 2973 6279 part in a round-the-world yacht race that saw her survive the worst of e: [email protected] the Southern Ocean, but also engaged to a Hong Kong-born competitor. Now a happily married, Hong Kong permanent resident herself, whatever ACCOUNT MANAgER energy she has left from trying to keep up with her three young sons, Cath Worthington t: Tina puts into her business of writing life-stories for everyday people. And 2973 6139 e: [email protected] competing in triathlons, of course.

ACCOUNT MANAgER Florence Choy t: 2973 6187 e: [email protected]

PRODUCTION MANAgER Michael Chau

Davide Butson-Fiori Leading a nomadic existence, Davide was born ART DIRECTOR in Maine and moved countless times throughout Timmy Ho his childhood. But changing schools and locations wasn’t always easy. He was picked on for being the tall, lanky new kid. Dreaming of winning the hurdles event in track and field, he’d envy the jocks at school. gRAPHIC DESIgNER He thought of trying out for the track team, but his self-esteem was low Samuel Tang from being picked last for any team sport, and he chickened out. Today, Davide is no longer a 30 kg weakling. Instead, he’s a 100 kg man made of solid muscle who runs his own fitness company and CEO competes in races worldwide. While he honed his craft as a fashion David Tait photographer and graphic designer, he never gave up his love for sports. t: 2973 6791 e: [email protected] He has created his own company, Circuit25, where he builds confidence in others so that they will never be picked last.

FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS & DISTRIBUTION t: 2973 6131

CONTRIBUTORS: Melanie Adamson, Jennifer Barnes Eliot, Angela Baura, Davide Butson-Fiori, Anthea Damman, Andrea Dann, Andrew Dembina, Aimee K Photography, Dr Rosann Kao, Ingrid Keneally, Tina Purvis, Claudia Saunders, Sarah Simpson, Kelly Yang

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 James, Annabelle & Anya

ummer has certainly arrived in Hong Kong! After a generously cool and dry start to the year, the heat and humidity we’ve been expecting (dreading?) has made its Sappearance. Nearly every conversation among my girlfriends now includes in-depth debates about how to handle your hair and questions about how you’ll spend your summer holidays. While you’re on your own with your hair, we have addressed your summer holidays. Whether you’re heading out on home leave or looking for ways to enjoy Hong Kong’s coastline, we’ve got it covered. And no matter where you’ll be enjoying the season, I hope our tips regarding sun and water safety ensure a happy ending for the whole family. We had so much fun shooting this month’s fashion spread. Thanks to the folks at the Aberdeen Boat Club, we enjoyed a fabulous setting and rewarded ourselves with delicious snacks when the work was done. It was a treat to welcome back one of our favourite photographers – Aimee K – who was visiting from her new home in Mallorca. Aimee will be back again in November for anyone who would like to have some gorgeous family photos taken. For us here at Playtimes, summer means the monthly magazine treadmill will pause, allowing us to take a breath, too. I’m looking forward to my own home leave, where I hope to share some relaxing times with family and do some frenetic shopping. This summer, Wendy will return from her maternity leave. We’ve missed her, and look forward to welcoming her back. But, as she returns, another team member will leave us. After three years on the Playtimes team, Narelle will be leaving Hong Kong. She and her family will set off on their next adventure, this time in Bahrain. Narelle has been such an important part of our team, and she will be missed tremendously. We all wish her the best in this next chapter and are delighted to feature her son James in the fashion spread inside. I do hope you enjoy this summer reading. And, as the song goes, I’ll see you in September. Thanks for reading,

Tracey Starr, Editor-in-Chief

8 Playtimes

WHAT’S ON Summer The hoTTesT haPPenings around T own

Kids’ gallery students present Neverland. Tinkerbell is sick, a storm is brewing, and Peter BasF Kids’ Lab interactive Pan and Captain hook are chemistry education about to join forces! programme aims to educate Find details at and raise children’s interest in www.hkticketing.com. science. Learn more at Join award-winning, american www.kidslab.basf.com. author susan Conley for afternoon tea at The Peninsula to celebrate the launch of her critically acclaimed memoir The Foremost Good Fortune. Buy tickets at dymocks bookstores.

Looking for a safe, non- invasive, drug-free way Catch Annie, the musical, to improve your family’s at hong Kong Baptist health? BodyTalk will teach university. Proceeds will be children aged ten to 18 donated to the hK society simple techniques. for the Protection of Children. register online at Click www.hkticketing.com www.bodytalksystem.com.hk. for tickets.

Visit the hong Kong Book Fair 2011 to find both Chinese and The international arts english books, Carnival 2011 offers exhibits and acrobatics on ice, dance, events. Last year’s Cartoon piglet Mcdull “performs” music, puppetry and fair drew nearly a with the hong Kong sinfonietta in multi-media theatre. million visitors! the “hKs Mcdull Music Project: For details, click Learn more at stargazing by the sea with www.hkiac.gov.hk/2011/ hkbookfair.hktdc. Mcdull”. en/prog/index.html. com/en/. Find details at www.hksl.org.

10 Playtimes

happy Campers

When the novelty of summer has worn off and the kids are bored, why not look into a summer programme that piques new interests or stretches their muscles, both mentally and physically?

Languages Additional topics include creative writing, critical alison’s Letterland International Kindergarten reasoning, public speaking, and many more. presents Letterland Fix it Phonics Programme, Click www.kellyyang.com. Beginners Letterland, and Mandarin classes, for kids youth Leadership asia, managed by LAM Institute, aged two to six years old. To book your free trial class, takes students to the top. They train the leaders of click www.letter-land.com today. today; and now they’re training youth to become the esmD-yWCa’s Mandarin Camp is a week-long leaders of tomorrow. Visit youthleadershipasia.com programme designed to keep kids occupied and for details. happy. With games, music, dancing, storytelling, drama and crafts, children will have so much fun that Arts, movement and music they won’t even notice they’re learning. Learn more at anastassia’s art house offers fun-filled art camps www.esmdywca.org.hk. throughout July and August. Young artists will take a creative and educational journey, studying great Florenda International’s Around the World in 80 artists and creating their own masterpieces. Click Days offers a mix of energetic games, catchy songs www.arthouse-hk.com, or call 2812 6465 for details. and dramatic play, all designed to teach your kids Mandarin. Click www.florenda. Baron Junior music com.hk, call 8203 2883, or academy presents Around email [email protected] the World, with unlimited for details. access passes available for two or four weeks of pIps(hK) offers a bilingual study. Kids aged two to six summer camp for children will learn about different aged three to six years, and an countries’ music and culture English playgroup for children through music, dance and aged two years and under, at more. Click Parkview International Pre- www.baronjunior.com.hk. School. For details, click www.pips.edu.hk/hk, or call Cosmo Kids, on Caine 2812 6023. Road in Mid-Levels, offers creative and fun-filled activities in expressive arts, spanish Tutorial & Translation Centre allows kids movement and stories, for children aged six months to learn Spanish naturally, in an innovative and to 12 years. For details, Call 2915 8138 or click fun atmosphere, from university-graduated native www.cosmokids.net. speakers. Small group and private on/off-site lessons for all ages are available. For details, click Discovery Dome mobile planetarium offers summer www.sttchk.com. Astro-Camp and Young Explorers Camp, plus puppet workshops. Click www.discoverydome.hk, or call sunkids’ summer bilingual and Mandarin camps offer Rachel on 9042 6396 for details. a happy and fun-filled environment. Full immersion programmes in English and Mandarin are available Faust’s theatre and creative writing workshops offer for children aged six months and up. Call 3107 0787, kids aged four to 14 a fun environment to learn or click www.sun-kids.hk for details. about theatre and develop greater self-confidence. Workshops are held in Sheung Wan and Kowloon super mandarin summer Camp: Why not spend a Tong. Email [email protected] or call 2547 9114. summer learning Chinese with a Mandarin teacher from Beijing? Classes are three days per week, in At Fusion academy, senior students aged Wanchai, and are lots of fun. Call 2861 0082, or click eight to 18 will learn and perform songs and www.superchamp.com.hk. scenes from their favourite Glee episodes. Junior students, aged four to eight, will perform Leadership and academics numbers from favourite Disney movies. Click Kumon tailor-made programmes enrich children’s fusionacademyhongkong.com. maths, English and Chinese abilities. All kids aged Jean m. Wong Creative arts Centre’s Children’s three years or above are eligible for enrolment. Call Summer Arts and Dance Programme offers kids aged 2890 6533 to learn more. two to 12 all sorts of fun activities, including dance, The Kelly yang project runs summer music, painting, sculpture and Chinese calligraphy. writing, reading, maths and SAT/SSAT test Learn more at www.jmwballet.org. preparation classes for students aged two to 17. My Happy Sunflower, a paint your own pottery studio,

12 Playtimes offers classes in July and August for kids four and up. Sports Classes are 90 minutes, $350, and include materials, aberdeen Boat Club offers courses including dinghy a cupcake and soft drink. Call 2511 2538, or click sailing, windsurfing and kayaking, for members and www.myhappysunflower.com. non-members alike. All ages and degrees of experience red shoe Dance Company offers kids aged five to are welcome. Visit www.abclub.com.hk for details. 18 classes in jazz, ballet, hip hop, popping, freestyle, esF educational services offers basketball, swimming, street jazz, lyrical and contemporary dance. Visit gymnastics, trampolining, football, martial arts and www.redshoedance.com for details. badminton throughout July and August, at either the rolly pollies offers Gymbugs™ for potty-trained kids South Island School or Renaissance College venues. aged three to six years. The 2.5-hour class includes Visit www.esf.org.hk/esf_sports to download an fitness, music, movement, art and storytelling, under application form. the supervision of highly-trained staff in a clean, air Flex studio wants kids to enjoy their yoga camps for conditioned facility. www.rollypollies.com.hk. half price. Simply email [email protected] by 20 June, speak Up performing arts offers Story Study for three- and, in two sentences or less, explain why keeping to five-year-olds, and Theatresports, Shakespeare and active helps you stay healthy and happy. Include “Flex Improvisation for the seven- to ten-year-old set. Click summer camp competition” in the subject line. www.speakup.com.hk for details. multi-sport runs comprehensive indoor sports sunshine house offers a six-week programme programmes during July and August. Swimming, throughout July and August. Each week focuses on a gymnastics, trampolining, multi-sports (basketball, different theme, such as artists, space, sciences and soccer, hockey, tag rugby, indoor hockey) and mini- sports. Visit www.sunshinehouse.com.hk, and receive tennis classes are available. Download a brochure at a discount for signing up for all six weeks. www.multi-sport.com.hk, or call 2540 1257. Woodland pre-schools’ Summer Fun Programmes, The yoga room YogaKids programme provides a fun from 4 July to 12 August, offer fun activities to children and educational way for kids to strengthen their sense aged 12 months to seven years. For details, visit of confidence, focus, breathing, creativity and physical www.woodlandschools.com. awareness through yoga, movement, music and art. Click www.yogaroomhk.com for details. HOT OFF THE PRESS

Jungle gym Transform your child’s room into a jungle, complete with roaring lions and cheeky monkeys, with the new Jungle series from Flexa. The Jungle room is packed with Sun safe shelters and hide-outs, bushes to lie in and challenges Australian-owned Zinke by Key Sun offers the for budding vine-swingers. The bed quickly becomes best possible broad spectrum UVB and UVA the tallest climbing tree in the jungle, where sneaky protection, and contains micronised zinc oxide, snakes slither past, giraffes stroll by and colourful birds which provides a physical barrier – just like a twitter happily. To see the collection, including a wide hat or clothing – to repel the sun’s rays. With range of cushions and accessories, visit the showroom something to suit every family, Zinke offers at Shop 302, Level 3, Grand Central Plaza, 138 Shatin tried-and-true formulations that are affordably Rural Committee Road, Shatin. priced. Sports strength for golf-loving Dad, Clear Zinke for Mum, coloured sticks for the kids, and a new dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula for toddlers. Available at Bumps to Babes, various private clubs and www.dibsanddabs.com.

Pillow talk Kokoon Beds & Bedding carries an exclusive range of Australian-made Tontine pillows and quilts for adults and kids that have natural Water cotton covers for breathability and freshness. BioGuard®-treated synthetic filling inhibits babies the growth of dust mites, bacteria, mould At the pool or at the beach, and mildew, plus the entire range is machine- the KisKise Water Sling will washable for added freshness. Tontine’s pillows help you enjoy the water with are allergy-sensitive, endorsed by the National your baby. Made from light-weight, polyester mesh that Asthma Council of Australia, and come with won’t absorb water, the sling will stay light when wet and a freshness stamp that reminds you when to dry quickly when you’re done with your dip. Kindly note that replace yours. Visit Kokoon at Horizon Plaza, or the sling is not a replacement for a flotation device, and at www.kokoonbeds.com. wearers should always observe water safety rules and use caution whenever your baby is in or near water. Available at www.bubblecouture.com, $300.

L’élégance á la française Hong Kong’s latest online boutique – Little Parisians – showcases three trendy French brands, offering clothes that are colourful and playful, yet comfortable and suitable for active kids. The collections are available exclusively online in a variety of sizes, styles and prices. A charming and user-friendly website, online payments, fast deliveries and periodical newsletters will make your shopping easy and fun. Even better, until the end of September, Playtimes readers will enjoy a $100 discount on your first order. Start shopping at www.little-parisians.com, and enter “Playtimes” in the voucher field just before checking out.

14 Playtimes Treasure chest Looking for the perfect gift for the ladies in your life? This summer, Makina Treasure presents Jenna Ng’s new “Adventure” and “Oko” collections. Featuring simple and elegant shapes set with twinkling diamonds, these pieces are sure to delight. Click www.makina-treasure.com to see what you’ll discover.

Get refreshed Are you feeling stuck? Do you crave a more meaningful life? What are you doing right now to create a better sense Curves ahead of well-being? Join certified Fearless Living Coach Glynis Looking for a cute and comfy Ferguson for a one-on-one session at the Four Seasons, dress for summer … in an expat where you’ll enjoy spa treatments, gourmet meals, private figure-friendly size and without lifestyle coaching and time for reflection overnight in anyone telling you you’re too a luxury suite. Designed to fit into your busy schedule, big? Head to OCHO for high you can get away from it all without leaving Hong Kong quality clothes from the US. and return home feeling more optimistic, motivated and The collections are versatile – positive. Email [email protected], or call 9095 simultaneously classic, chic and 8371 to learn more. sexy, for day, night and the office – and are chosen for their practicality as well as their designer appeal. Sizes range from 0 to 20 and alterations are available to make sure every fit is perfect. Brazilian expat owners Fernanda and Leila will help you find the best look to flatter your shape and fit your lifestyle. Visit them at 51 Staunton Street, Soho.

Pack and roll Heading to Grandma’s house this summer? The kids will love rolling their own suitcases when they’re as cute as these. The Beatrix Wheelie, decorated with favourite Maakun forest characters, is made from heavy-duty Not so petite now nylon and a strong steel frame. Extra features include After a very successful first year in their Gough Street an extendable handle suitable for different heights, an shop, Hong Kong favourite petit bazaar has opened a external pocket for easy access to inflight reading, an second location. The new space is even bigger and lovelier internal pocket and straps to secure contents. Find them than the first, and offers a wider range of the best French at Hocusadabra, $750. and European furniture and accessories for children. Visit the new store at 80 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai.

Summer 2011 15 HOT OFF THE PRESS

Cake bake For 60 years, Wing Wah Cake Shop has been famous for their “wife cakes”, and now you can learn their secret. Eight lucky Playtimes readers will win a set of tickets, valued at $200, for a free parent-child class on 20 July. Your “Tasting Hong Kong” course will include cooking, tea appreciation, tastings and a souvenir tea picker doll. To enter, please email playtimes@ppp. com.hk before 30 June, and include “Wing Wah” in the subject line. (Kids aged six to 11 only, please.) To learn more about Wing Wah and their private and public tastings, call 2684 Celebrity chic 1328 or click www.tastinghk.com. The hip children’s fashion brand Appaman – worn by the children of celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Sarah Jessica Parker, and more – has arrived. Find their first shop at Man Yee Arcade in Central – the Cover up! shopping centre that is quickly becoming a Children’s skin is considerably more sensitive gathering point for the yummiest of mummies. than adults’. My Hyphen, the fast-drying, breathable bathing and casual wear for children, offers UPF 80 protection – even when wet and stretched, and after repeated wearing and washing. The range is available at www.cosmobeebies.com, from $165. Crazy for cocoa How is chocolate made? What’s the difference between handmade and mass-produced chocolates? Does French chocolate taste different from Belgian? If these questions alone inspire cravings for your next chocolate fix, then you’ll love the tastings on offer at Goossens Chocolatier. During a typical 90-minute session you’ll taste up to 13 different types of chocolate, from first-grade connoisseur raw chocolates to bonbons. Even better, on Father’s Day, dads get to taste for free. Call 2575 8825, or email info@goossens. com.hk to book your spot. Sitting pretty Is the dinner table just a smidge too high for your child? Is sitting still a challenge? Booster Bugs, created by a Hong Kong mum, are air-filled booster cushions for the floor or chair. The colourful cushions look like ladybugs and are a fun way to help improve children’s (and adults’!) posture and attention. Kids will not only love sitting on a Booster Bug, but the subtle movements they make continuously work their core muscles and encourage them to sit up straight. These movements assist with increasing concentration for longer periods of time. Get yours at Bumps To Babes or online at www.thebugscompany.com, $450.

16 Playtimes

FINGER ON THE PULSE

Kids who focus on one sport to the exclusion of others end up getting injured more often, new research suggests. In fact, those who devoted themselves to only one athletic pursuit were almost twice as likely to get hurt as those who played multiple sports, according to the study. Younger children – those who have not entered secondary school – tend to be especially vulnerable as their bodies are still growing, says Dr Kory Gill, who recommends that kids cross-train and condition for other Percentage of babies given movements, or just play another sport. “I tell parents to let kids botanical supplements or teas be kids and play multiple sports,” he says. “See what they’re during their first year of life, good at and what they enjoy.” By secondary school, when according to a study conducted bodies are more mature, specialising is safer, he adds. by the US Food and Drug source: HealthDay Administration. Dietary botanical supplements and herbal teas don’t receive the same scrutiny that pharmaceutical products do. Percentage of Hong Kong Use of such products can cause adolescents suffering from disc adverse reactions with other degeneration, often as a result of medications, and the products may obesity, according to a recent study. be inherently unsafe themselves. source: South China Morning Post source: South China Morning Post

Eating meals with their families helps keep kids slimmer and healthier, a new study finds. Researchers pooled data from 17 earlier studies and found that youngsters who joined family members regularly for meals were 24 per cent more likely to eat healthy foods than kids who rarely ate with their families. They were also less likely to suffer from eating disorders. source: HealthDay

Babies who cry excessively are at greater risk of serious behavioural problems later in life, suggest scientists in a controversial new study. One in five babies has symptoms that could lead to conditions such as ADHD, according to research published in Archives of Disease in Childhood. By comparing data from 22 studies from 1987 to 2006 involving nearly 17,000 children, researchers found a link between these issues and problems later in life. But at least one child-health expert said it would be wrong for parents to be “overly alarmed” by the results. Paediatrician Jane Valente says, “I don’t think on the basis of this report people should be going to their GPs. [However] if a baby is not behaving like other babies it is probably worth discussing with a midwife or health visitor.” source: BBC News

18 Playtimes

ECO HERO

The Para’Kito natural, refillable wristband brings long-lasting mosquito protection. Chemical-free and waterproof, Para’Kito provides up to 15 consecutive days of protection that’s safe for everyone, including pregnant women and young children. Simply insert the active pellet into the easy-to-wear wristband and enjoy personal protection for all your activities. Because the pellet doesn’t touch the skin, even people susceptible to skin allergies and irritations can use it. Para’Kito wristbands are available in a range of colours and designs at ThreeSixty, $140 for the wristband and two pellets, $90 for refill packs.

Once considered an impossible goal, a ban on trawling in Hong Kong is on the horizon. After more than six years From the time you decide of campaigning by WWF-Hong Kong to have a baby, there are and other ocean lovers, on 18 May, so many choices and the Hong Kong Legislative Council decisions to make. Newly passed legislation for the ban of all launched “baby planner and greenproofer” trawling in its entire local waters. The Baby Bloom can help. Among their many ban will bring an end to all bottom and services, Baby Bloom can help you prepare a mid-water trawling activities, including clean and healthy environment for your growing fishing using pair, stern, shrimp and family. From eco-friendly nursery design to feng hang trawlers, and will come into full shui, they’ll walk you through your options. effect on 31 December 2012. Additional consulting services are available for source: www.wwf.org.hk the rest of your birth-planning needs as well, with the aim of making your transition into parenthood as stress-free as possible. Click www.babybloom.com.hk to learn more.

Pura Kiki’s stainless steel bottles and collars are BPA-free, hygienic, lightweight and durable. Because even BPA-free plastic can leach petroleum by-products and other chemicals when heated, scuffed, scratched or worn, Pura Kiki products are crafted from food service grade stainless steel. A lifetime guarantee ensures these bottles are eco-friendly. Find them in four fun colours and two sizes (5oz and 11oz), at Bumps to Babes and www. bloomandgrowdirect.com. Three lucky Playtimes readers will win sets that include two infant bottles and one toddler sippy cup, valued at $455. Email [email protected] before 31 August, and include “Win bottles” in the subject line.

Summer 2011 21

TOY BOX

Oskar & Ellen Picnic Set Age 3+ years $420 petit bazaar

Volley Strike Age 3 to 8 years $225 Bumps to Babes

Scrunch Bucket Age 1+ year $80 each Bloom and Grow

Fred’s Swimtrainer Seat Age 3 months to 4 years $275 Bumps to Babes Baby Activity Pool Age 9+ months $240 Bumps to Babes

PoolJet Age 4+ years $899 Bumps to Babes

Correction: The Justin Bieber doll featured last month actually costs $269.90, not $149.90 as we reported. Our apologies to Toys“R”Us and any disappointed shoppers.

Summer 2011 23

BOOKSHELF

Early Readers (4-8 years) Ladybug Girl Topsy and Tim Sticker at the Beach Storybook: by David Soman and Jacky Learn To Swim Davis by Jean and Gareth Anderson $153 $58 Lulu loves the beach. Well, This sticker book is a reassuring she’s never been there read for any child who is learning before, but she knows she will love it. And then she how to swim. With more than sees the ocean and it is big and loud and rough. That’s 50 colourful stickers and three OK: Lulu wanted to build sand castles and fly her kite different kinds of activities, kids with Bingo anyway. But the sneaky ocean comes in will have plenty to do. The story takes readers through and tries to steal Lulu’s favourite pail. This is a job for every detail they can expect to find when they swim in Ladybug Girl! real life, from the changing rooms to the showers and Available at Pollux Books the pool itself. Available at Pollux Books Charlie and Lola: I am EXTREMELY Splish, Splash, Splat! absolutely boiling by Rob Scotten by Lauren Child $136 $36 Splat does not want to have Charlie and Lola are trying a play date with Spike. Spike their best to beat the summer will break his toys and eat all heat, but things go from hot of his candy. And he does not to boiling when Lola refuses want to learn how to swim to talk to her neighbour, Arnold Wolf. He accidentally – water is horrible, scary knocked her ice cream to the ground and won’t and wet. He’s sure that this apologise. Now Lola says that she will never forgive is going to be the worst day him. Can Charlie help her change her mind? ever. But when the rest of Available at Pollux Books their classmates rush straight into the pool, Splat and Spike find that they may have more in common than they thought. Too Hot To Hug! Available at www.paddyfield.com by Steve Smallman $96 When Rupert finds a golden Great For Travel (Ages 8+) egg, he takes it home to show to Mum and Dad. Then Fine Art Scratch and Sketch: suddenly, Tap! Tap! Crack! out hatches a baby fire dragon! A Cool Art Activity Book for Budding Fine From then on, Crumpet the Artists of All Ages dragon is Rupert’s best friend. But soon Crumpet by Kerren Barbas starts to grow. And as he grows, he gets hotter! $195 Available at Bookazine Budding artists will enjoy hours of fun scratching and sketching 20 of the world’s Bugs That Go! most famous paintings. Each by David A Carter book comes with a wooden $129 stylus and every page a black It’s time to hit the road. Let’s coating. Copy the aligning see all the ways the Bugs go, picture by scratching with the go, go! The Bicycle Bugs are stylus, magically revealing cruising down the street, the colour and your very own Hot Air Balloon Bug is floating masterpiece. up, up and away, while the Speedy Race Car Bug is Available at Hocusadabra crossing the finish line. Available at Bookazine

Summer 2011 25

MANDARIN MADE EASY

Just a few days gave our family a glimpse of Shanghai’s mix of history and modern-day marvels, writes Andrew Dembina.

hanghai was an exciting prospect for our small family. young human, there is no doubt that despite school education, Although I had been there 12 years ago for a few days the numerous wildlife channels on TV and vast information of work, ironically, the two Mandarin-speakers in our available online, there is no substitute for seeing creatures live family – my wife Ada and eight-year-old son Joshua – to stoke a child’s enthusiasm. Considering this zoo opened in hadS never been. All of the news coverage, especially during last the mid-1950s, buildings and pens are mostly in exemplary year’s World Expo, had left the whole family eager to visit. The condition, with plenty of recent additions, too, such as decent proximity and plethora of flights made it an easy target for a aquariums. Big cats, elephants, giraffes, antelope, camels, four-night escape from Hong Kong. more than a dozen primate types, giant and lesser pandas – We’re pretty seasoned travellers. But, surprisingly, all of they’re all there, along with too many more to mention. The my pre-trip, online searching revealed very few hotels that landscaped grounds are beautifully lush and sprawling; we make special provisions for children. No mentions of kids’ ended up staying for more than half a day. Other families had clubs or playrooms, only child-minding and an occasional kids’ brought picnics and a handful had small tents spread out on menu were noted. The city, it appeared, is more geared to the rolling lawns. business traveller. Undaunted, we set out. For a culture fix, Jade Buddha Temple is an immaculately Shanghai Zoo, the first stop on our holiday, is one of the kept and compact early 20th-century complex of temple halls. best in China in terms of humane conditions for the animals, Different Buddhist idols date back as far as the 1880s, when and for the range of animals on display. Before I became a the first shrines were built here. The temple is named after two dad, I had not been interested in zoos, thinking it intrinsically jade statues brought over from Myanmar at that time. (Note: wrong to cage wild animals. However, now the co-owner of a you have to ask about access and pay for a second ticket to

Summer 2011 27 see the seated of the two jade Buddhas, housed in a secure structure until 2007 (when it was surpassed by the Shanghai upper level hall.) On the ground floor, a reclining jade image, World Financial Center). There are two viewing floors within it, some enormous renditions of The Four Heavenly Kings, various as well as the Shanghai Municipal History Museum. The rest arhats, and other images abound. As interesting as all this was, of the Pudong side essentially offers the city’s main exhibition after about an hour, our son was getting restless. centre area, new offices and hotels, but it is also home to the Keeping our eight-year-old’s attention span and interests in Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. We didn’t have time to visit it on mind, we decided that museums might be best avoided for the our short trip, but it might make an interesting family-friendly rest of our limited time in Shanghai. There are plenty of good stop for those with the time or without the inclination to travel ones available, though, covering art, history and science, and to Shanghai Zoo. these might be the way to go for older kids. Back on the west-side, known as Puxi, we visited Yu The city is perhaps best known for its Huangpu River Gardens Bazaar area. It’s a very touristy area, chock-full (that’s Whampoa River in Cantonese, by the way, after which of shops in buildings that imitate the existing 19th-century the waterfront neighbourhood in Kowloon’s Hung Hom is architecture in the area – whitewashed facades with upturned named). It is here that the much-mentioned contrast between eaves on their roofs. We watched craftspeople at work– albeit old Shanghai and new is most exaggerated. The Bund, as it primarily making artefacts for tourists – and bought our son is known in English, offers a sweep of historic, Western-style a personalised souvenir of the trip. A “reverse-image bottle- buildings lining the Huangpu River’s west bank. Across the painter” wrote Joshua’s name inside a glass bottle, in which water, you’ll see the very 21st-century-looking Pudong district, the artist had previously painted a monochrome horse. After dotted with skyscrapers that would not be out of place in a that, we queued up for xiao long bau at the famous Nan Xian Flash Gordon movie. A stroll along both shores is a must. dumpling house. Marvelling over old colonial architecture from the start of Throughout the trip, my wife and I encouraged Joshua the 1900s, though, was not something an eight-year-old boy was to speak Mandarin whenever possible. Although he was a bit going to put up with for long, so we took the highly overpriced bashful, his longest conversations came at a hair salon, when Bund Sightseeing Tunnel under the river, billed in guidebooks his stylist was keen to strike up conversation, which proved as an exciting whirl of technicolour special effects. In reality, a fun way to reinforce our son’s Hong Kong-based Mandarin the five-minute ride in your own private capsule, manned by po- studies. He certainly surprised me in a string of fluent phrases faced staff at both ends, did have its moments of lighting-effect that were praised by the recipient! intrigue. But references to going through hell – which made up If you’re looking for a quick and easy peek into the about a third of the journey – seemed a little uncalled for. The fascinating world of mainland China, Shanghai won’t ferry crossing on the way back was far more pleasant. disappoint. And while there was plenty on offer for our young Pudong is home to the Oriental Pearl Tower, which was son, there will still be plenty more to experience when he’s a bit built in 1994 and, at 468 metres tall, was China’s largest older, too.

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play it safe Summer fun starts with water safety, explains Anthea Damman.

t’s easy to think that it won’t ever The Australian Royal Life Saving Society are still at risk and possibly even less happen to your family, but the promotes the following instructions as likely to let an adult know when they statistics speak for themselves: part of their “Keep Watch” campaign: are in danger. Adolescent children in 2007, there were 3,443 fatal • Supervise are competitive and often engage in drowning accidents in the US • Restrict access risky play where they can easily get (averagingI ten per day) and in • Water awareness out of their safety zone. Inadequate Australia, the rates of drowning and • Resuscitate adult supervision and an unrealistic injury following near-drowning are at expectation of how well older children an all-time high. Supervise will obey safety rules without supervision Children’s natural curiosity It goes without saying that young can put them in danger. Taking extra near water makes them extremely children need constant supervision precautions – such as using floats – can vulnerable to accidents. The US- around water. However, that can be provide additional safety and security, based Centers for Disease Control easier said than done, particularly but nothing can substitute for the eyes and Prevention (CDC) has reported when there are other distractions that of a watchful parent. that one in five fatal drowning victims take your attention, too, such as young are children of 14 years and younger, siblings. Most children who drown in Restrict access and for every child who dies, another pools were out of sight for less than five We tend to associate drowning four receive emergency care for minutes and were in the care of both incidents with swimming pools or the non-fatal related injuries. Children parents at the time of the incident. beach, but often don’t realise that aged four years and under are more Most often, adults who were present drowning can occur in as little as a likely to suffer accidental death in a when a child drowned were distracted few centimetres of water and where swimming pool than in any accident in some way, by talking on the phone, least expected: bathtubs, toilet bowls, involving a motor vehicle. Most people chatting with other adults or reading. buckets, small inflatable pools and any are unaware that even a non-fatal The CDC recommends that area where water pools can pose a drowning can cause brain damage you are able to provide “touch potential risk. that can result in serious, long-term supervision” to pre-school children Ensure all buckets and containers disabilities. when they are in or near water, which are emptied after use – these can The good news is that, like means that you are close enough to rouse a young child’s playful interest most accidents, those in water are be able to touch your child at all times. – and try to get your whole family into avoidable. Now that summer’s here, Older children are often reluctant the habit of storing them upside down. it’s worth reminding yourself of the to be supervised and feel it intrudes This will ensure that they won’t fill with most important water safety measures. on their independence; however, they rainwater.

30 Playtimes Summer 2011 31 Keep toilet lids closed and use toilet seat locks. Believe it or not, toilets are a major home drowning hazard, particularly for children under the age of three. Bathtubs offer a great playground • Drowning is a silent killer – your accidents include drowning. Of those for kids, and by following a few safety child will not cry out and there who drown, nine out of ten victims tips, you can ensure it stays a safe one: is usually no warning such as were not wearing a life jacket. Have • Never leave a child alone in the screaming or splashing. your child wear a life jacket every bathtub. Remember: it takes just time you go boating or when they’re three minutes or less for a baby to A big sparkly swimming pool is a playing on the dock. The life jacket is drown, so keep your eyes on them natural draw for small children. The one of the best water safety inventions and stay within arm’s reach. same guidelines apply in relation ever devised. • A child can drown in the time it to constant supervision. After play, takes to answer the phone. If you make sure that you remove all toys Water awareness have to leave when your child is in from in and around the pool, which Studies have shown that children water, take your child with you. will reduce the children’s temptation from non-swimming households are • Never rely on a sibling to supervise to return to the pool when you are eight times more likely to be at-risk of an infant. otherwise engaged. drowning. Teach your children to swim, • Never rely on bath rings or seats to If you have a paddling pool, make or have them taught, from the earliest keep your baby safe: the suction sure it is emptied at the end of the day possible age. Ignore their protests if cups can release when infants and stored upside-down and out of they put up resistance as it could very move, allowing them to tip over. children’s reach. well save their lives one day. If you • Only fill the tub with enough water If you have a pool at your home, do not know how to swim, enrol in a to cover the infant’s legs: a child fence it and install a self-locking gate parent-child learn-to-swim class and can drown in as little as an inch of so kids can’t get in without you. Ensure enjoy the experience together. Ensure water. the fence is high enough so they can’t that all family members, including all • Always drain the bathtub of all climb over it. caregivers, are able to swim. water after use. Boating accidents occur each Do not rely on “water wings/ • Learn CPR for infants. Accidents year in lakes, rivers and oceans, and floaties” or other inflatable toys to do occur, so be prepared. not surprisingly a percentage of these ensure your child’s safety. While life

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guards are there to help prevent drowning, you should not rely on them exclusively for your child’s safety either. Always make sure you and your children know where the deep end is and how far they can safely go. Teach children how to tread water, float, and get in and out of the pool safely. Children need to understand how to be safe in and around different water situations.

Resuscitation We have all seen the movies where someone who is drowning is flailing, splashing and shouting out for aid. Unfortunately, in reality, drowning is usually quick and silent. If you are at a pool complex and you suddenly realise that your child is missing, always check the pool first. Scan the entire pool, both the bottom and surface. If an accident does occur, follow these guidelines: It is estimated that for each of an accident in water. Statistics show • In any water emergency, and drowning death, there are one to four that the earlier CPR is initiated, the providing you can do so safely, non-fatal submersions serious enough greater the chances of survival. get the child out of the water to result in hospitalisation. Just a tiny Whatever is on your agenda this immediately. amount of water in the lungs can summer for water fun, be sure to keep • Shout for any person nearby to call cause a delayed reaction of sudden, your child safe. Teach your child water 999 for an ambulance. Always dial severe difficulty in breathing, called safety and follow the safety rules for 999, even if you feel confident in secondary drowning. each individual water experience. your own life-saving skills. No matter how diligent you are, When water safety tips and rules are • Check to ensure the child’s air accidents happen. Being prepared taught in the home, accidents are less passages are clear. will give you the best possible chance likely to happen. Taking simple steps • If the child is not breathing, start to save a life. Learning how to perform such as these outlined above could go CPR immediately; seconds count CPR from a qualified instructor is a long way in preventing a tragedy. in preventing death or brain invaluable and can make a dramatic Enjoy a safe summer of splashing with damage. difference to the outcome in the case your kids! • Continue giving CPR until the child starts breathing, or help arrives. Always allow the paramedics to help, even if the child appears to have recovered.

Anthea Damman is an Australian registered nurse who is a certified CPR and first aid instructor. She has been a CPR and first aid instructor for ten years, and her classes are relaxed and comprehensive. Anthea works at Island Health Family Practice, www.islandhealth.com.hk.

Summer 2011 35 summer in the city The schools are closing their gates, and with a long hot stretch ahead it’s time to find some fun summer activities to keep the kids entertained, writes Sarah Simpson.

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he summer holidays are upon us and once again for a secluded night under the stars. Why not rent a tent (see the challenge is set for parents to keep children below) and enjoy a mini-holiday? This trip may take some more active and engaged for six long weeks. Whether planning but is well worth the journey. you’ll be here for the duration or are planning a trip abroad,T chances are you’ll be spending some time in the Hong Getting there and back: Take the MTR to Choi Hung station, Kong heat. After enjoying many a school holiday in the SAR and then take Green minibus A1 to Sai Kung. Alternatively, during my own childhood, I’ve experienced most of what the take the MTR to Hang Hau station, and then take the 101M city has to offer, and can provide some fun-filled ideas for even minibus. From Sai Kung town, take minibus 29R and alight the most bewildered parents. at the Sai Wan Pavilion terminal. Following the signposts to Sai Wan, take the 40-minute route to Sai Wan and carry on Beach bums along the beach paths to Ham Tin (which will take another 40 When the skies are clear and the sun’s beating down, a trip to minutes), or on to Tai Wan (another 15 minutes), or ultimately the beach is a perfect daytime getaway. Although the Repulse to Tung Wan (another 40 minutes). Bay and Stanley beaches provide clean and safe environments If you’d like to avoid a bit of the long hike, you can hire a for the tykes, sometimes it can feel like you’re battling the boat to ferry you part of the way. Order a speedboat for the entire population of Hong Kong to enjoy these sandy oases. journey between any restaurant on Ham Tin or Sai Wan and However, located a little further afield, you’ll find white sand either Wong Shek Pier ($80 per person) or Sai Kung Town beaches, clear blue water and fewer battles for your own patch ($120 per person). At Ham Tin or Sai Wan, the restaurant staff of sand. will help you with the arrangements, easy peasy. However, Tai Long Wan, on the east coast of the Sai Kung Peninsula, if you’re traveling from Sai Kung Town or Wong Shek Pier to hosts some of the most pristine beaches in Hong Kong. Unlike the beaches, first-timers will need a bit of courage and an most coastal areas in the region, Tai Long Wan remains mostly adventuresome spirit. The boats are local and unscheduled, untouched. You’ll find no lifeguards and no shark nets here. and you’ll find few English-speaking captains. However, they’re If you’re planning a junk trip, this is the destination with its accustomed to helping gweilos find their way, so wander secluded feel, turquoise waters, deserted beaches and, with towards the water and start asking around. a little exploring, the reward of a churning waterfall. However, if a big boat trip isn’t on your agenda, you can still reach Tai Staying there: Hoi Fung Store along Ham Tin beach rents tents Long Wan via public transport and a hike or water taxi. But suitable for two to six people that cost between $100 and be warned, this is not a march for the toddlers – the walk $200 per night. to the isolated terrain will take about 90 minutes. The area comprises four beaches: Ham Tin, Sai Wan, Tai Wan and Renting a junk: Try Saffron Cruises (www.saffron-cruises.com), Tung Wan. At Ham Tin and Sai Wan you’ll find restaurants Island Junks (www.islandjunks.com.hk) or Sea Lagoon (www. and camping equipment rental. Tai Wan and Tung Wan are sealagoon.com). To enjoy a catered meal during your boat ride, without any man-made facilities, making them ideal spots consider a Jaspas Junk (www.casteloconcepts.com).

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Dolphin encounters $360 ($380, effective from 1 July) for each adult, and $180 Due to encroachment on their natural habitat by developers, ($190, effective from 1 July) for a child under 12. Children the Hong Kong dolphin population may not be what it once under three years ride for free. was, but there are still a few pods flitting about our waters. To get a close-up look at the native Chinese white dolphins, Up close and personal: Although dolphin-watching is an there are a couple of different tours on offer. Tai O, on Lantau exciting day out, for an experience that your kids will remember Island, has been called the “Venice of Hong Kong” – a cross- forever, try swimming with the dolphins. Ocean Park offers section of ramshackle wooden shacks built atop stalks over an all-inclusive programme where swimmers get to touch and a winding river system. As you enter the old Tai O village you’ll play with the dolphins, in addition to learning about them. notice signs boasting dolphin-watching trips for just $25 per Importantly, the trainers will also teach kids about threats to person that will lead you into the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu wild dolphins and how we can help protect them. Chau Marine Park and out across the reefs. Although this can feel like an authentic Booking: Visit www.oceanpark.com.hk for further details, or call 3923 2328 to make a reservation. Swimmers must be at least eight years old to participate. Hot days in For those days when the humidity hits 99 per cent and just walking out of the door leaves you drenched, the best bet

and intimate method of viewing the smiling mammals, conservationists have expressed concerns over the welfare of marine wildlife when speedboats reach top speeds. To enjoy but also protect the dolphins, ensure that you ask your guide to maan di la (slow down) through the park. For a, shall we say, more professional operation, it’s best is to find an indoor to book a seat on one of the Hong Kong Dolphin Watch tours. spot to cool down. Although there are a plethora of malls Departing from Tung Chung New Development Pier, this three- in Hong Kong, perhaps the best for an all-day excursion is hour ocean adventure takes explorers across the Hong Kong Taikoo Shing’s Cityplaza. For the ultimate refresher, make waters on a luxury cruiser with experienced guides. Founded your way to the Ice Palace ice skating rink for a whirl and a in 1995, the tours aim to raise awareness of our pink pals twirl around the icy ellipse. Next up is games arcade Jumping and generate revenue for research and campaigns for the Gym USA, a myriad of games and activities that will stimulate betterment of the dwindling species. even the most diligent Xbox player with a mixture of skill- based challenges, colourful toys and rides. If, after all that, Getting there: Tai O: Catch the ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui you’re up for watching a movie, then check out the listings at Wo, then bus 1 to Tai O. Or take bus 11 from Tung Chung MTR UA Cityplaza where 3D and IMAX experiences are available. station. Grumbling tummies will delight in the variety of Asian and Western restaurants throughout the mall and at the food court Booking: Hong Kong Dolphin Watch Tours offers on the third floor. complimentary coach transport from Tsim Sha Tsui to Tung Chung New Development Pier. Email booking@hkdolphinwatch. Getting there: Take the MTR to Tai Koo station and follow the com or call 2984 1414 to make your reservation. Prices are: signs to Cityplaza.

Summer 2011 41 If you’ll be travelling far and wide to visit family this summer, a bit of planning can make the journey a little less taxing, writes Jennifer Barnes Eliot.

hristmas has long passed, Chinese New Year seems like ancient history and the Easter basket sugar-high has faded. Now, the question on everyone’s lips: What are you doing over the summer?C Each year, as the end of the school year draws closer, expats everywhere begin to think about home leave. Not merely a holiday, home leave is the expat’s chance to reconnect with family and friends, enjoy one’s favourite tastes of “home,” shop at favourite stores and relax a little. Often, home leave involves a schedule requiring military precision and United Nations-worthy negotiations. Where to stay, how long to stay, come here for dinner, no, come here for a barbecue. Meet for a drink, leave the kids with us, can’t you stay? It feels like we haven’t really caught up at all. Whew! It’s enough to make you consider skipping the whole journey.

42 Playtimes Summer 2011 43 Electronic aid

Use these top travel apps and gadgets to help you navigate your trip. TripIt (Free). This easy-to-use app keeps all your travel details on your iPhone or iPad. You can even forward your flight confirmations via email and the details will be added to your trip file. WiFi Finder (Free). WiFi Finder claims to have the biggest directory of paid and free WiFi internet access with over 545,000 locations in 140 countries worldwide. A true necessity for avoiding costly roaming charges. AlarmClock Pro (US$0.99). This handy app turns your iPhone or iTouch into an alarm clock that even Having lived overseas for eight years and travelled back to the most sleep-deprived traveller the US each summer with two children under 11 (often alone!), could see, with several different the most important thing I have learned is that while home colour displays to choose from, leave is vital to our family, we have to treat it as something a built-in flashlight for unfamiliar other than a holiday. Each family has different needs, and the hallways, and the option of waking important thing is to realise what’s non-negotiable for you and to music from your favourite playlist. your family and make that the priority. After talking to a number of expat parents and asking how AllSubway (US$0.99). Access subway maps for they plan for their yearly journey, here are some road-tested nearly 130 cities worldwide. No internet connection is routines and suggestions to help you make the most of your necessary and there’s zoom in/zoom out functionality. home leave and keep your sanity in the process. GlobeConvert (Free). This simple but incredibly useful app allows you to convert more than 180 currencies, as How to travel well as temperature, weight, length, volume and time. The first step in getting from Hong Kong to your final So when your weary little traveller asks, “Mummy, how destination often involves long-haul flights, and the mums I long before the plane takes off?” you can confidently talked to had plenty of suggestions for making the journey respond, “Twenty minutes, or 1,200,000 milliseconds, as smooth as possible. Most agree that direct flights are my darling.” preferable and many like to fly overnight to encourage young travellers to sleep. The only downside is that as your kids get Skype (Free). Find a WiFi network and you can call or older, the wide array of electronic entertainment available on message anyone on Skype for free. And, as with Skype board can be a terrible distraction that makes sleeping an on your computer, with pre-purchased credits you can unattractive option. call non-Skype numbers as well. A healthy sense of humour is a key ingredient on Zinio (Free). Turn your iPad or iPhone into a digital everyone’s packing list. “Only fly business class!” one mum newsstand. Purchase individual issues or digital exclaims. Niki, a Swiss/South American expat mum with two subscriptions of your favourite publications and take kids, adds, “Laugh as much as you can – if you feel like you the wait out of your mailbox and weight out of your are losing the plot, ask for a Bloody Mary!” carry-on. Another key to a successful journey is having the essential travel goodies aboard for your family. Judy says her family Joby compact, flexible tripods (starting at €19.95). never travels long distances without “a fully charged laptop These easily packed tripods and stands allow you to and movies, earplugs and aspirin”. Healthy snacks to quell watch a video on your iPhone hands-free or set up your everything from mild hunger to outright starvation should also camera just about anywhere you can imagine. be on your packing list for when the in-flight meal service is (www.joby.com) too slow for your little ones’ needs. For younger children, pack EyeFi card (US$39.95). Never worry about forgetting a small cache of toys (old and new) that can distract, amuse your SD card again. The EyeFi card stays in your for a little while, and not cause extreme anxiety if left behind camera. Once you are ready to move your photos accidentally. A change of clothes could be helpful, too. For off your camera and onto your computer or a photo- older children, make sure they have a good book and a hoodie sharing website, just find the nearest WiFi hotspot and for the plane, and that all electronic devices (iPods, video upload your photos effortlessly. (www.eye.fi/) game systems, iPads, etc.) are fully charged before leaving for the airport.

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Where to stay What to do, whom to see One of the most critical parts of planning home leave (for I wish I could say that each year we are careful planners those who don’t own a holiday home) is deciding where to stay. and manage to keep a healthy balance of visits with family With family often spread across the country (or countries!), and friends, a week or two of camp for the kids and fiercely choosing where to go first can set the tone. Some families protected family time. But the truth is that every year we have a clear-cut matriarch or patriarch and their house is the seem to arrive with all the best intentions and end up leaving de facto home base. Others choose a neutral location that exhausted. Some days it seems that breakfast, coffee, lunch, won’t upset others, rent a holiday cottage or beach house, and drinks and dinner are all spent with a different group. There’s extend invitations. always one more person to see, one more stop to make, one Hong Kong life coach Monika Parker, who has worked with more barbecue to attend. many local expats, agrees: “One of my clients rents a cottage Some families schedule a “holiday within a holiday” and try for a few days in a beautiful location, inviting friends and family to find a true break during home leave. Several include extended to come and visit. This can be family; this is a nice touch as it invitational or the cost of the allows everyone to be relaxed cottage split equally; a one-off and on holiday, not just you. or an annual event cherished Others prefer to use home by everyone. This satisfies the leave exclusively for catching desire to catch up face-to- up and plan a separate holiday face in a relaxed setting with that’s just for their nuclear everyone in a holiday mood. family. Deborah, an expat No one person has to plan and mother of four, has started to keep house, there’s plenty of use part of their home leave time for walks in the countryside, wonderful local pub lunches each year to do some domestic travel to historical destinations. with a few glasses of wine and no need to worry about driving, Long-time expat LauraLee says: “Our lake cabin near my and plenty of playmates for the children. What a wonderful way husband’s family where we have our own space is the closest to create memories.” thing we get to a family holiday away from it all. Every summer When it comes to accommodation, my rule of thumb for I dream of having more time alone as a family, but it always our family, regardless of how we handle the rest of our journey, feels a bit selfish to take time away from grandparents, etc. is that we always stay in a hotel or serviced apartment for the The older relatives won’t be around forever and besides, as first few nights, allowing ourselves to get our feet firmly on the expats, we get more exotic family holidays than anyone else I ground and deal with the worst stages of jetlag. At 4am, you know, so I feel it’s a sacrifice we can make.” want to be able to watch some TV or amuse the kids with a One frustrating part of home leave is trying to spend time DVD without worrying about waking up your hosts. with all the people you want to see. Beware of social fatigue.

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And remember, while you are off from work and school, regular routines continue for those at home, and finding the balance And don’t forget your … can be tricky. Mini headphone splitter. This handy little number Our family managed a very successful picnic during our makes it easy for two kids to watch a DVD on mum’s last home leave at a nearby lake with barbecue facilities. I laptop, or two seatmates to share an iPod playlist. invited our extended family to join us one particular Saturday. The kids swam, paddled canoes, played and had fun while Noise cancelling headphones. Ready to block out all the grown-ups got the chance to talk. We supplied the drinks, the chatter? Noise cancelling headphones really make hamburgers and hotdogs, and everyone else brought side a big difference when trying to get some shut-eye. dishes. Family and friends had the option to stop by for an hour iPod/iPhone battery extender. Keeping tired, hungry, or two, or to spend the whole day. A little advance planning cranky small people distracted while waiting for your provided an opportunity to see lots people in one go, many of food to arrive in a restaurant or when you’re on the whom we wouldn’t have had the time to visit individually. tarmac can drain your battery, let alone your patience. Laura, an American married to a Swiss husband with two This little device adds extra precious time to preserve children, and a seasoned traveller adds: “I think the only thing your sanity. to do is beat back the guilt and say to the family, ‘We will be at [this place] at [this time] and would love to see you.’ Otherwise you run yourself ragged. And if you came half-way around the Pip’s suggestion is to remove all packaging from things world, the least they can do is come to see you.” you buy: plastic wrap, boxes, tags – take it all off and you’ll be For many expats, home leave often means travelling solo amazed by how much space you’ll save. I will add that if you’re with the children or being on your own for part of the trip. One buying medicines, when possible, choose tablets over liquids. of the best tips from a mum Additionally, gallon-sized zip- of two busy boys: “Just when I close bags are so practical think I might go crazy being a and can be used to keep small single parent, I have my hubby items together and liquids from join us – usually about four ruining the contents of your weeks in.” luggage. When my kids were toddlers, I would also use them Packing and shopping to pre-pack outfits, making Universally, expats seem to getting dressed less stressful become expert packers. It’s when living out of a suitcase for amazing how we can make five weeks on end. You can reuse weeks’ worth of clothing fit into them again and again. one bag and still have room left For all the planning, to bring back our favourite deodorant/dry goods/chocolate/ packing, obsessing and negotiating that often accompanies make-up. Across the board, expat mums say the same thing home leave, it is a wonderful opportunity to spend time with about packing: take as little as you can. If there’s anything those we love. My kids don’t remember the time our luggage you’ve forgotten, you can almost always buy it in your home got lost or the airport delays, but they do remember catching country. I try to pack the clothes my children are just growing fireflies with their cousins in Grandma’s backyard, hair still out of and then leave them behind at the end of our journey by damp from the pool and fingers sticky with marshmallows after passing down to friends with younger kids or donating them. making s’mores on the grill. Inevitably, I’ve bought new things to fill in any extra space in our luggage. When it comes to packing, LauraLee has this great suggestion: “Get some packing cubes in a variety of sizes, one colour per family member. They function like a travelling chest of drawers and prevent fights! For example, when my eight- year-old needs his socks, he knows they’re in his small packing cube, and his cubes are green, so he can find the socks on his own and I don’t need to unpack an entire suitcase to find them hiding at the bottom. On an average home leave, we end up packing/unpacking ten to 15 times as we stay in many different places, and these packing cubes keep me sane.” Shopping during home leave can be both a blessing and a curse. Who hasn’t been mesmerised in those early days, brain clouded with jetlag, by the endless aisles of breakfast cereals, hair products and socks? The choices are truly mind-boggling. To me, it is simultaneously exhilarating and revolting. A measure of self-control is called for here! But shopping is inevitable. So what’s the best way to shop? Molly, an expat mum of two, likes to leave the kids with her mother all day early in the trip and get the essential shopping finished and out of the way.

Summer 2011 49 50 Playtimes here comes the sun This tale has a happy ending, but to keep your kids safe this summer, take precautions, warns Claudia Saunders.

y eight-year-old son has Within weeks, my son and I moved a scar on the top of his from Asia to Memphis, Tennessee, in the left foot. It is a big scar. US, where my son was accepted into a In fact, it is a skin graft juvenile melanoma study. After several thatM was once a perfect two-centimetre months in Memphis, two surgeries and square. Today, as my son has grown, a year of Interferon treatment, my son that square has grown, too, taking was permitted to proceed with life as on a rectangular shape of about six normal – a normal that would include centimetres by five centimetres. Every sun safety precautions, for sure. While I few months my son asks me when will probably never know how or why he his scar will go away, and we have the developed melanoma, I have learned conversation. The conversation about some surprising and informative facts his skin cancer, and how lucky we are about skin cancers and sun safety that he’s healthy. Sometimes, it’s a practices along the road to my son’s short conversation that ends with a big recovery. hug and a kiss on his foot. Other times, my son wants more – he asks about how Know the facts he got skin cancer, and we start from For starters, the sun does not the beginning. discriminate, and neither does skin When my son was 18 months old, cancer. Individuals of every ethnicity he was diagnosed with stage three can sunburn and develop skin cancers. malignant melanoma – a fairly well- Sunburns and skin cancer are not known form of cancer among adults, exclusively interdependent. The two can but nearly unheard of in children, let occur independently, which was most alone babies. Making it even more likely the case for my son. However, uncommon, my son is not fair-skinned nearly all medical scholars agree and blonde: he is part Latino, part black that increased exposure to the sun’s and just a quarter French-Caucasian. ultraviolet rays can increase one’s When we received the news about my chances of developing skin cancer. son’s diagnosis, we quickly moved past Regrettably, there are many the “how is it possible?” question, and misconceptions about skin cancer. started a global search for information Recently, while taking a graduate course on juvenile cases of melanoma. in health psychology in Bangkok, I

Summer 2011 51

Sun safety tips raised the question in class if a sun The Skin Cancer Foundation offers these suggestions for enjoying a safe and safety awareness programme would fun time in the sun. be well-received in the region. Several • Seek shade, especially between 10am and 4pm. classmates quickly informed me that, • Do not burn. “Asians don’t get skin cancers”. Just • Avoid tanning. a few moments on Google confirmed • Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking my suspicions: Asians, unfortunately, sunglasses. are not immune to skin cancer. Even • Use a broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher more unfortunate is the lack of early every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad- screening that often results in late spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. detection amongst this population. This • Apply one ounce of sunscreen (about enough to fill a shot glass) to your is also the case with darker-skinned entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or people of different cultures. Basically, immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. individuals who don’t fit the more • Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies common parameters of light skin, fair over the age of six months. hair and advanced age, tend to go • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month. unchecked. I know this first-hand. When I first visited a dermatologist to have my

son’s mole examined, I was told “not to extremely vulnerable to the sun’s harsh worry because children don’t get skin rays. Babies have thinner skin and aren’t him to a dermatologist. For parents cancer.” Four doctors later, my son’s born with a developed skin-protection with questions on screening and skin mole was finally biopsied. system, which means they can burn checks, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s I realise that my son’s case is far more easily than older children. In website (www.skincancer.org) has extremely rare, and I am by no means addition, sunscreens aren’t advised for helpful information on methods for advising that parents rush out and children under six months, so parents skin screening and signs to look for in have every mole on their child’s body should be especially careful to avoid existing moles, freckles or skin spots. biopsied. When it comes to skin cancer direct sun exposure to that delicate skin. As well, the site has information on sun and sun safety, however, what I do think safety, which is very informative, and is important is that parents set aside Keep watch possibly life-saving. their beliefs about skin tone, ethnicity I’m often asked how I knew to have my It has been seven years since my and hair colour, and examine their son’s mole examined. I tend to believe son was first diagnosed with melanoma. children as individuals. Even though your that most parents, consciously or Today he is cancer-free. It took me a child may develop a deep bronze tan, subconsciously, watch their children for long time to get comfortable with my son an ounce of prevention has to be better signs of change or wellness, especially doing everyday outdoor activities, but than risking possible sunburn. According with young babies. When we’re bathing I’ve learned to relax. With adequate SPF to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just our children, brushing their hair, sunscreen and sun-protective clothing, one or more blistering sunburns in changing them, I think we’re always I can now enjoy seeing my son do all childhood or adolescence more than doing our own little version of a health the normal things a boy his age does doubles a person’s chance of developing scan. With the mole on the top of my outdoors: playing tennis, swimming, melanoma later in life. As well, the son’s foot, it was the same. When I first riding his bike, chasing friends, playing Foundation states that a tan is a sign noticed the mole, it was small and a bit tag and all the rest. of damage, not health. With more than raised. Once the mole started to grow a The school year is coming to an 90 per cent of all skin cancers caused bit and change colour, I suspected that end, and the beach will be calling us. by exposure to the sun, there’s ample something might be wrong, but I never My family will heed that call with a sun reason to put sun safety practices high expected skin cancer. I thought the mole umbrella, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, on the list of healthy habits to instil in might be changing due to irritation from UPF 50+ sun-protective beachwear and children, regardless of their skin tone. my son’s shoe, which is when I first took appreciative smiles. For babies and younger children, parents need to be even more vigilant about sun safety. The beautiful, soft Claudia Saunders is a mother, writer and counsellor for children with special skin of babies and younger children is learning and emotional needs.

Summer 2011 53

Lazing by the pool or getting a head start on the next academic year? Kelly Yang discusses how kids should be spending their summer.

hen I was growing up, students and teachers. But in modern My response to this is threefold. summer was a time times, with the mounting pressure First of all, the fact is, for most kids for relaxing, lounging of landing internships or undergoing a childhood these days is not really a around the house and childhood. The very brightest children Wgoing to the movies. Doing nothing was today are doing so much more than a big part of my summer. Isn’t that, after their 1990’s counterparts. And because all, the whole point of summer? These these kids are doing so much more, days, parents of children as young as more is expected from every other kid. three years old toil and agonise over So in some ways, it does not even really which intensive summer camp to send matter what summer should be because their child to. What summer programme the reality is, summer, like every other is the most prestigious? Which will academic season, is an arms race. And re-teach what they’ve learned in school here in Hong Kong, the land of super- that year so they don’t forget? Or, better competitive and demanding parents, yet, which will pre-teach what they will education is the ultimate sport. learn in the next school year? That said, as a parent, I often As an educator and as a parent, I worry that “idle minds are the devil’s often wonder which is a better use of workshop”. This means that to the summer: to rest and relax or work hard additional study, for many children in extent that you can help it, a child and advance? I think the original point of Hong Kong, summer has become more should not be bored. But this does not summer was to offer a respite for both stressful than the academic school year. mean you should cram your child’s

Summer 2011 55

time? If pursuing a second language is a priority of yours, summer presents a great opportunity for language immersion. Last summer, I sent my three-year-old son to Beijing with my mother for six weeks. He enrolled in a local Beijing kindergarten and had an amazing time interacting with the local children. By the end of his summer, his Chinese was flawless. Of course, you do not have to go abroad to have a great summer. There are great summer programmes right here in Hong Kong. At my centre, students love the academic challenge of our summer classes combined with the creativity and fun in our classroom. schedule so full of activities that he entrance exam) or the SCAT for younger We run summer courses on creative does not even have time to play. For students. That means that 12-year-olds writing, critical reasoning, public example, I spent many summers growing often sit for the SAT, which is normally speaking, grammar and vocabulary, up “not doing much”. But I was never taken at 16 or 17, just to get to go to and math innovation, to name just a bored because I used that time to read a summer camp! Because the entry few. Ironically, many of the students and write. I was constantly occupying my requirements are so stringent, many we have over the summer are students mind, even if I wasn’t physically enrolled parents have the mistaken notion that a who go to top boarding schools in the in a summer programme. summer at CTY is so prestigious that it’s US and UK and are back in Hong Kong This brings me to my final point: an absolute must-do. for the summer. you do not have to be enrolled in a The reality is, CTY, like any other The bottom line is, when planning particular summer programme – or any summer programme offered at most your summer, be creative and start with summer programme for that matter – to get a lot out of summer. A summer programme is nothing more than an organised curriculum or set of activities during the summer. Don’t get me wrong, some programmes are really great. But I find that some parents in Hong Kong put too much emphasis on getting into a particular summer programme, as though having that summer camp on their child’s academic record will somehow ensure their child’s college admissions success. I’m afraid it does not work that way. When planning your child’s summer activities, a good starting point is your child’s interests. If your child is interested in science, for example, there are a ton of interesting and fun science programmes for children. If your child boarding schools and universities, is what your child really loves. Explore all loves cooking, research some cooking just another academic summer. A quick the options available not only in Hong academies that run programmes for chat with top admissions officers at Kong but all over the world. Always keep children. Starting from your child’s Ivy League schools confirmed that the in mind that a happy child at the end interests gives your child a chance to admissions rate for students who went of summer is as important as a smart cultivate his or her passion. Now that’s a to CTY is no higher – and if anything, child throughout the summer. So keep a great use of the summer! maybe even lower – than students who good balance between resting and being When it comes to academics, Johns did not. active. Remember, all children love Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Instead of sending your kids to the summer for a reason: they cannot wait Youth (CTY) programme is often the programmes with the most hype, think to flee the tyranny of the school bell. Hong Kong parents’ favourite. CTY is about other uses for the summer. What Don’t make them want to flee the stress an intensive summer course for gifted do you really want to get out of this of summer! students in Baltimore, Maryland, and in order to enrol, you must first take a test Be sure to check out “Happy Campers” on page 12 to learn about summer such as the SAT (the American university programmes here in Hong Kong.

Summer 2011 57

Playing isn’t just for kids. Get the family fit while enjoying the summer sun together, writes Davide Butson-Fiori.

any parents lament the sedentary lives our kids are leading in front of computers, TVs and video games. We remember our own childhoods, full of unstructured outdoor play, Mwhile our kids stagnate in poor health and fitness. This is not just a problem of romanticising our own past while criticising modern ways: this is about obesity, heart disease and diabetes affecting our children at a very young age. It’s time that we became an example to our children, and summer’s a great season for it. It’s time for parents and kids to get outside and get physical. In 2010, obesity rates in the US were calculated at a staggering 34 per cent for adults and 17 per cent for children. That’s a heart-stopping statistic … pun intended. And here in Asia, obesity is a growing trend. Nearly 100 million Chinese are obese. When it comes to kids, the World Health Organization states that five to ten per cent of Chinese toddlers are obese. In Hong Kong, the Department of Health says about 20 per cent of kids aged six to 18 years are overweight or obese. Many blame the West for popularising its style of fast-food eating. However, there’s only so much finger-pointing that can be done before it’s time to start looking for solutions. In addition, while the internet is an incredibly beneficial invention, it has also created a situation where kids can grow up feeling like they’re interacting with the world without ever leaving home. For too many, there’s little desire to go outside and be adventurous anymore because everything can be found online with a couple of clicks. And with the ever-increasing popularity of HD and 3D television, video games and other forms of activity that makes staying inside more appealing, kids and adults alike are finding little reason to go outside and play.

Summer 2011 59

Get fit, have fun

There are a million and one ways the whole family can get active. Here are a few more suggestions: • Take a dip in the pool. • Revive some old-fashioned childhood games, like hopscotch and follow the leader. • Buy a skipping rope and teach children to skip Get up and move! • Go for a bike or scooter ride. The time to stop this inflation epidemic is now. And the best • Try a nature ramble, with challenges to spot way to do that is to get families working together towards the different insects or plants. same goals of getting fit. And it’s only going to appeal to the • Cool down with a water pistol fight. whole family if it’s fun. • Go ice-skating or roller-blading. The importance of movement is crucial. Just stretching • Walk the dog. and moving the muscles is vital to keeping the body limber and reducing the chance of physiological problems later in life. Being more active also increases the social, emotional and cognitive mentality of kids. The key is getting them started Make it a group effort. Let everyone have input on what activity early. That means getting them out of the pram or high chair you are going to do. Don’t just tell your kids they’re doing it – when you have the time. This way, they’ll not only grasp how make them a part of the planning process so that they feel like important physical exercise is, but they’ll enjoy it. When those they’re doing something they want to do. Don’t make it a chore; endorphins surge in their little bodies, they’ll learn how good make it something everyone looks forward to. exercise and movement feels. But if they don’t see their parents doing anything physical, they are likely to struggle to Get active indoors. There are plenty of things to do indoors find motivation. Set the example early. instead of relying on the remote. When it rains, try these on We all know it’s tough to diet and make a change in for size: your routine. It’s even harder when you’re the only one doing • Kids love seeing their parents being silly, so go crazy it, especially at home. So get the whole family involved chasing each other around the house. and jumpstart a fitness routine today! Not only will the • Grab the video camera and make a funny workout video benefits be incredibly rewarding, your family will be sharing wearing goofy costumes. the experiences together. In our chaotic lives with packed • From infancy up, there are exercise videos that engage schedules, this is a great way to spend quality time with your the whole household. loved ones, and will help ensure that you’ll all be healthy • Dance! Turn up the music at home and get down and enough to spend many more years together. boogie. Throw a hula hoop into the mix (great for those stomach muscles) and get everyone spinning. All together now • Play games like Twister, charades and tag. Here are some tips for getting your family’s fitness journey started today. Join a group activity like Circuit25 Family. This allows families – a single family or a group of families – to Find the time. Think you can’t make the time for an activity? participate in an organised, 90 minutes of play-based Find it, even if it’s in ten-minute slots. The ten minutes you activities. What better way to spend your weekend usually spend checking your Facebook page can be turned afternoons? into quality time by being active with your family. Make sure that being physical is an everyday activity and Walk. Walking is a great way to get your body moving and not a special event. Ingrain the importance of taking care of your eyes focusing on the outdoors rather than a computer their minds and bodies now, and it’ll stick with your kids for life screen, and provides wonderful uninterrupted time for – and with their kids one day, too. So what are you waiting for? talking with your family. When was the last time you spent a Get fit with your family today! solid 45 minutes chatting with your kids? You don’t have to Note: if there is anyone in the family with a medical condition, plan drastic getaways, driving hours to the perfect location. such as diabetes for example, consult your physician first. How about walking to the grocery store together instead of taking a taxi? Or head to one of the many parks that provide flat, paved walkways that even the shortest legs will find NASM-certified personal trainer Davide Butson-Fiori easy to navigate. is the founder of Circuit 25. Members swear by his unique, outdoor, group personal training workout that Go to a playground. But don’t let the kids have all the fun: get reduces your biological age and helps you and the off the bench and play together. Climb, swing, wrestle and earth – his business is all outdoors: no electricity, no laugh! Bring extra items like Frisbees, kites and balls and use air-conditioners – get in the best shape ever! them. Teach them a new sport, or maybe a dance move. Visit www.circuit25.com to learn more.

Summer 2011 61

we are family Take the time to learn about your family, before it’s too late, writes Tina Purvis.

icture this: It’s summer and you’re back home visiting gone are the days when several generations of a family lived family and friends. It’s a grey and rainy day, lunch together under one roof, the days before television, when has finished, the kids are entranced by a movie evenings were spent listening to our parents and grandparents and, as you wonder how to spend your afternoon, telling stories of days gone by. yourP mother suggests looking through some old photos. You Times have changed. Today we live in a fast-moving, see images of your parents in their heyday, your own baby mobile society. Young families move overseas on expatriate photos, your first day at school … and suddenly an hour has contracts, grandparents move out of their neighbourhoods passed. Your mum hands you a box you’ve never seen before to warmer climates. Grandchildren seldom see their and inside, to your utter amazement, is your grandmother’s grandparents and even some children seldom see their journal – her hand-written parents. Time spent together life-story. Her journey amounts to precious few includes historical events weeks, with overscheduled, – the Russian Revolution, busy days. The thought of World War II and the 1929 spending that time simply Wall Street Crash – events sitting down together and you remember studying at listening to each other’s school. Her story takes you stories doesn’t even cross back to a time long ago that our minds. she actually experienced. But anyone who has You are privy to your grandmother’s reactions to these events lost a relative suddenly realises how many questions are left as well as her thoughts, opinions and decisions during so many unanswered. Did we really listen to all of Grandpa’s stories other moments in her life. when we had the chance? It’s usually only when a loved one You glance at your children and realise they know so little dies (or when we have children of our own who may never about their own grandparents. In fact, if you’re honest, you know their grandparents) that we fully understand the precious don’t know that much about your parents either! opportunities we have missed to learn about their lives.

Missed opportunities Telling stories Why don’t we know more than just the basic facts and a few It’s through day-to-day stories that we learn about our family anecdotes about the people we care about the most? Long members, about philosophies of life, about the experiences

Summer 2011 63 of those older and wiser. It’s through these stories that value were Grandma and Grandpa? Who went to the wedding? Who systems are handed down. And it’s through these stories that didn’t go? Just from one photo your children can start to build we get a sense of belonging, not because of the latest gadget a story of their family history. we own, but because we are part of a unique family. We start Or, your kids could simply express their interest in their to understand the past that has shaped our future. We feel grandparents’ lives and invite one of them (or another elder connected to history, to have a sense of where we’ve come relative) to sit down and talk with them for half an hour. The from and how we fit in the Big Picture. conversation could be in a question and answer format, and Children love listening to stories, especially stories about could be about a specific time in their lives, such as their their families. The family is one of the first things we learn school days, for example. Their stories will transport your about as pre-school children when we are asked to bring in a children to a time before computers. photo of Mum, Dad, brothers and sisters – our family. We all Just a few questions will likely lead to others and, before have a natural curiosity to know about our past. Children love your children know it, they will have a wealth of information. hearing about what they were like as babies, adults love seeing And not only will they know a bit of history, but they’ll connect old school photos, and grandparents with the grandparent, realising enjoy reliving the days of their youth. that Grandma is indeed a person, We like to know the quirky, trivial with hopes and dreams and a things about each of us that help remembered youth – a connection define who we are – our favourite toy, that will bridge the gap between the that special song from our teenage generations. What you and your kids years, an embarrassing moment in learn might even bring you and your high school. parents together in ways you didn’t think possible. Even better, Sharing our family stories was once a powerful tradition, record the conversations with a video camera, so you and your a tradition that strengthened our families and created family can listen to the stories again and again. community in our lives. But it’s a tradition that’s getting lost. Your child should not be deterred if they are met with When you consider how many ways we can stay connected objections from their grandparents, such as, “I haven’t done with each other despite physical distance, you realise that anything interesting, nobody’s going to care!”, because it’s actually pretty easy for us to obtain information. So why that simply isn’t true. Everybody has a story to tell. Their not take the time to find out about the older members of your grandparents will be able to shed light, not only on noted family before their memories fade? historical events, but also on how different everyday life was when they were children. The way we grew up and lived our Questions, questions lives shapes who we become; to know these things helps us Summer holidays present the perfect time for your children to understand the people we love the most. It enriches our own find out more about their grandparents. A good starting place lives and it connects us to those who have gone before. In is to look at an old photo together. For example, have your every person there are a thousand ancestors and, in telling our kids look at their grandparents’ wedding photo and ask some own unique stories, our families get a chance to glimpse at the questions. When was it taken? Where was it taken? How old lives of a few of them.

Tina Purvis runs her own biography-writing business called “Reflections” and teaches family history workshops for kids. She can be contacted at [email protected].

Summer 2011 65 let’s talk about sex With swimsuit season upon us, and bodies displayed more freely than normal, your kids might just start asking tough questions. Dr Rosann Kao offers advice for having helpful chats with your curious kids.

s parents, we sometimes the little hand linger or did you gently learn for himself how willing you are to think that conversations but firmly tuck that hand away? That tolerate his interests … and later, his about sex begin as a child simple act began to let the child know questions. In the years when he is in learns vocabulary. How your sense about being touched on the primary grades or in middle school, your Aold was your babe when he could say breast or chest by an infant. Babies child will still read your facial expression, “nose,” “chin” or “foot”? And, the part learn. Some people let you touch. Others gestures and body language. Kids know of the body from which urine flows, what do not. adults; they read us like a book or sniff did you call that? More importantly, did When changing a baby’s nappy or the knowledge out of the air. Some you indicate that it had a name? Or, did diaper, or at bath-time perhaps, you adults let you ask questions about sex you look away and not say anything? have noticed that some toddlers seem and body parts, and others do not. For the moment it doesn’t matter if to want to explore the areas between you named the body part a penis, or a the legs. In both girls and boys, these Bad words willy or Little Joe. What matters for this areas are the domain of the reproductive As words come into the pre-school discussion is how you talked about body organs and also organs associated with child’s universe, the terminology parts. Son or daughter, you child will elimination. Some adults allow the child connected to the areas of the body sense your attitude long before he or to touch his or her own body. Other that have to do with elimination and she knows the words. adults, with quick certainty, will move reproduction seem to have added value. the little hands away from the area. The Even with the best of intention on the Feelings happen before words child looks at the adult in charge, notes part of the parents, children will hear Children will glean attitudes about the facial expression, the firmness of words from other adults, their peers at body parts long before they have the the movement and that message is playtime, the media and world at large. vocabulary to name the parts. Mum, delivered. This adult will not let touch When such a word is voiced, there are when your baby was nursing at your happen. The attitude begins. The child giggles or a raised eyebrow. What is a breast or taking milk from a bottle, that senses that with this adult, and maybe kid to think? child knew from sense of touch and with all adults, this behaviour is not The task of the parents is to clarify sense of smell that the soft and tender allowed. the meaning of words like “poo poo” or human contact with his cheek belonged The basic, everyday acts of “boobies” and then decide how, when to you; the firmer or flatter chest of the interaction with a very young child and if such words are to be used in your other person who fed him was not you. indicate to that child a whole range of household. It is no surprise that words The hand of the infant – girl or boy – values on what is allowable – and what related to the elimination of human soon wanders to the breast or chest is not. You might not ever have the waste are sometimes part of the same of the person offering milk. When that conversation about sex and parts of conversation as words that have to do infant touched your breast, did you let the body, but the young child will soon with human reproduction. Kids note

66 Playtimes Summer 2011 67 that when in a public setting, these Use your resources is best for our kids at what stages in the parts of the body are always covered Mum and Dad, you do not have to do this child’s development? Learning about with clothing. How are young children all on your own. Get help from friends. sex is never limited to one discussion. supposed to know how different parts In today’s world of multiculturalism and We need to keep exchanging ideas with function? They wait for your reaction to electronic media, we all wonder how one another. the sound of the new word. kids hear new words or why they think If you wish, invite a group of friends No matter what the word, some jokes are funny. Talk with your over to your house to talk about “how understand that your child has trusted friends. In English-speaking Hong Kong, we talk about sex with our children”. You you enough to say the new word aloud. few of us have a common gathering might also ask the parent association If the word is acceptable to you, you will place or an extended family nearby. of your kindergarten or primary school have no problem in responding to the For many of us there seems to be no to organise an evening programme child. If, however, the word is one that one place to learn proper guidelines for for parents. Let the topic be: How to you would rather not have your child use, then simply state your feelings. Hold your voice steady, be truthful and speak in simple sentences. You might try: “Some people might use that word to mean , but I don’t think it is such a good word. To mean , in our family we use the word .” As you talk, maintain eye contact with your child or extend a hand in trust or a hug. Touch is our basic act to confirm trust. The child needs to know that in telling you the word he heard outside of the family circle, he did nothing wrong. And your honesty in approach, the short explanation and the hug allow the child to know that he can bring more words to you. The trust will grow.

Get to the good words Why wait for bad words? If you have not yet talked with your child about matters related to parts of the body, to sex or to matters of sexual identity and other areas of grown-up behaviour, why not helping young children when they ask help parents to learn what’s new in sex start now? Find a time and place where about sex. Nevertheless, we have each education. There are many educators you will not be interrupted. Turn off your other. Having friends who grew up in and counsellors in Hong Kong who could phone. Begin with, “Susan, we have different parts of the world allows for help lead such a workshop. Thankfully, not talked about this matter before, comparisons of family stories from other while there is new information all the but there are some things I want to say. cultures. A broad exchange of ideas time, the questions of how to talk about Will you listen?” Wait for your child’s about sex education for young children sex never seem to go out of style. Talk agreement. Assure her that she has can be helpful to all. Many parents in with other parents and ask the school done nothing wrong and that you just Hong Kong find that they have more in to help. want a quiet time for her to listen. Then, common with their “third culture” sisters For parents who want more say what is on your mind. and brothers than they have with any information, do visit the library and the Do not talk of too many different of the greater family who never left the bookshops. Contemporary books for items during this special time. Also, home country. We live in new times. children show pictures that are worth don’t fill in all the details as to why you The importance of talking talking about. In your home, leave the want to talk. This is her time. Wait for with other parents can never be books in places convenient to find. her questions. If she doesn’t have any undervalued. The internet brings much You can be grateful that you do get questions yet, offer a hug and a thank you. new information to us each day. Yet, to choose the books that offer the Close the conversation with your real and meaningful conversation is vocabulary you would like to hear in your words that whenever she has questions, also needed. Which kind of information household. you will be ready to listen to her. Don’t forget the hug. Words float in and out of the child’s brain. If your words Rosann Santora Kao, Ph.D, is the director of Education Consultants. If you are real, the child will remember the have more questions about talking with your child about sex, please email confirmation of the hug. Dr Kao at [email protected].

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Give your baby a five-star massage at home, writes Angela Baura.

iven a choice, would you ever say no to a massage? Quite simply, there is nothing more wonderfully relaxing than being rubbed up the right way! Imagine how good it must feel to your babyG then, having Mum’s warm hands gently caressing his soft, darling skin.

The benefits Baby massage is a fantastic way to strengthen your bond with baby, and is very soothing for mother and baby alike. Not only does it help your baby to sleep better (I’m ready to snooze just thinking about a massage), but it also improves blood circulation, aids digestion and boosts the immune system. Research suggests that gently massaging premature babies can also help to improve growth and development. “Baby massage benefits both the baby and the parent (daddies can do it, too!). It enhances bonding and communication, stimulates circulation and digestion, reduces stress levels and, above all, is wonderfully relaxing,” explains Kathy Kitzis, a certified infant massage instructor, who co- founded A Mother’s Touch.

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“Still touch may be a suitable alternative to massage choose to gently roll his legs between your hands all the way for premature babies as massage can sometimes be too from his ankle to his hips if you prefer. stimulating,” Kathy advises. “Either way, it is important to get Now, massage your little one’s tummy with one hand the permission of your baby before you start a massage. As following the other in clockwise circles. If your baby is gassy, adults, we decide to get a massage, but babies do not. We push his knees onto his tummy and hold for a count of ten. therefore ask permission from the beginning so that they have Slide your hand across his tummy from left to right then down a sense of self and power over their own bodies. As a baby towards his left hip to move gas towards the rectum. gets older, he or she may say no by crying, moving away or According to Kathy, “Babies with trapped wind or saying so.” constipation can find a lot of relief with massage. Baby massage helps parents learn to read their baby’s signals How do I do it? better so they can respond to their needs more effectively.” There are a number of different techniques for massaging a Move on to baby’s chest, and stroke outwards from the baby, but before you get excited and get the oils out, have a centre down to his side. Next, stroke (or roll between your think about your baby’s mood hands) baby’s arms. Massage and needs right now. If your from the shoulders down to the baby has just had a marathon wrists and very gently massage feeding session or, alternatively, each finger of each hand. Wipe is expecting a feed any second baby’s hands clean before they now, do you really think this is end up in his mouth. the time to massage your child? Using your fingertips, If, however, the mood is right, massage his gorgeous little face make yourselves comfortable by making tiny circle motions. either on the floor or on the bed, Then stroke from the middle of or with your little bundle of joy on your lap, and make sure the his forehead, down the outside of his face and in towards his room is warm enough for him. Let’s start with baby on his back cheeks. Make small circles around his jaw. This is especially so that his front gets a good, relaxing massage first. comforting when babies are teething. If baby’s still relaxed Start by smoothing some good quality, cold-pressed and enjoying himself, turn him onto his front and massage his vegetable oil such as olive oil, canola or grapeseed, as Kathy back, using long strokes from his shoulders down to his toes. suggests, into your warm hands. You’re now ready to massage A tiny tot – a newborn, for example – is likely to appreciate your baby, either from his little tootsies up or from his head a massage for all of two minutes, whilst an older baby may down. require his massage therapist to take her time. Assuming you choose to start from the feet up, begin by When you’re finished, wash your hands, then hand this rubbing the soles of baby’s feet. Use slow, gentle yet firm (to article to your partner. After yet another exhausting, yet hugely avoid tickling) strokes from his heels to his toes. Now stroke rewarding, day of mamahood, it’s now your turn to enjoy a his legs, from his ankles to his thighs to his hips. You may good massage!

Summer 2011 73 www.hkywa.com Congratulations to all the winners! Anson Yui San Cheung, Diocesan Girls’ School • The Hong Kong Young Writer of the Year & The City University of Hong Kong’s Award for Fiction, Group 3

• Annalise Wing Chung, St. Margaret’s Co-educational English Secondary and Primary School The City University of Hong Kong’s Award for Fiction, Group 1 • Harvey Lap Shun Kong, St. Margaret’s Co-educational English Secondary and Primary School The City University of Hong Kong’s Award for Fiction, Group 2 • Nandita Seshadri, South Island School, The City University of Hong Kong’s Award for Fiction, Group 4 • Christopher Ting Ho Lo, Korean International School – Springboard The Playtimes Award for Fiction, Group 5 – Different learning Abilities • Angel Ka Man Poon, Korean International School – Springboard The Playtimes Award for Fiction, Group 6 – Different learning Abilities • Amy Yeung, St. Margaret’s Co-educational English Secondary and Primary School The Financial Times Award for Non-Fiction, Group 2 • Jovian Ma, The French International School, The Financial Times Award for Non-Fiction, Group 3 • Elizabeth Lai Yin Cheung, Diocesan Girls’ School, The Financial Times Award for Non-Fiction, Group 4 • Rachel Ho, Kingston International School, The British Council Award for Poetry, Group 1 • Clarissa Heng Chi Yung, St. Paul’s Convent School, The British Council Award for Poetry, Group 2 • Lucita Ng, Heep Yunn School, The British Council Award for Poetry, Group 3 • Ella Davidson, Elsa High School, The British Council Award for Poetry, Group 4 • Jeremiah Cho Shing Lee, Shatin Pui Ying College, The Playtimes Award for Poetry, Group 6 – Different Learning Abilities • Serena Ren, Glenealy School, Cover Art Award

Organiser

Sponsors

74 Playtimes he Hong Kong Young Writers Awards is an annual competition for young writers in Hong Kong to flex T their creative muscles in fiction, non-fiction and poetry. The competition culminates in an official anthology, showcasing the most creative and imaginative literary talent among Hong Kong’s students. Pick up your free copy at Bookazine locations. You’ll be amazed at just how talented these young writers are! The team at Playtimes was delighted to take part by sponsoring three awards this year (see winners above) and is already looking forward to encouraging more writers next year. We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Stephanie Ng at P3 for all of her work organizing an exciting competition and exciting awards ceremony, along with all of the sponsors, judges and teachers who made it all possible. The annual competition is hosted by P3, parent company of Playtimes. Though the 2011winners have just been announced, P3 is already gearing up for 2012. If you’d like more information about how your students can participate, or how your company can become a sponsor, please email P3’s publications director Jo Allum at [email protected].

Summer 2011 75 76 Playtimes words & styling Ingrid Keneally photography Melanie Adamson

Want to transform your child’s bedroom into a unique and refreshing space? Hong Kong is the only shopping destination you’ll need for sourcing eclectic and individual finds.

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he perfect child’s bedroom carries with it a design statement that reflects the individuality of each child. There are places T for storing their prized possessions or collections; it is their base and comfort zone. The great appeal is not only to curate pieces yourself, but to encourage them to add their own finds. A mix of vintage with more modern pieces will be a hit with children and can also inspire them to create their own artwork. Creating a space for these two children, one aged three years and the other ten months, involved a combination of comfort and creativity. “I wanted to create a warm space with their own toys, books and favourite things, without [it] feeling overwhelming,” says the homeowner. Stickers on the walls by Marguerite & Gribouilli are lead-free and VOC paint-free and reflect the homeowner’s focus on environmentally friendly materials. “I like their concept and product,” says the owner. “They are supposed to last for a couple of years. We have had it up on the walls for nearly a year now and it still looks brand new. I also love the fact that we can change the wall decoration when our child gets older by just peeling off the stickers”.

eed some help creating a joyful and stylish space for your children? Head to these stores for some inspirational purchases. N Babushka Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung | T: 2791 9070 Sai Kung’s answer to shoppers seeking lovely things for children’s interiors offers a range of products, from hand-knitted toys to wall stickers.

Chenmiji 4 Sun Street, Wanchai | T: 2549 8800 Looking for something unusual? Chenmiji is jam-packed with retro and vintage furniture that includes elegant old-school chairs, tables and lights.

Ecols 8-10 Gough Street, Central | T: 3106 4918 | www.ecols.com This is a great source for eco-furniture, lighting and accessories.

Flea + Cents 1/F 36-44 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai T: 2528 0808 | www.fleancents.com You’ll find an eclectic range of furniture, lighting and collectables that are mostly vintage or one-offs.

Marguerite & Gribouilli www.marguerite-gribouilli.com Assia Bennani from Marguerite & Gribouilli will turn any idea into a gigantic beautiful sticker.

Mirth The Mezzanine Floor, Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang T: 2553 981 | www.mirthhome.com This well-styled space is filled with wonderful lights, toys and accessories, original artworks, rugs and furniture.

Mooi 7 Sun Chun Street, Tin Hau | T: 2882 1384 At Mooi you’ll find unique vintage Danish and German furniture and accessories from the 1950s to the ‘70s.

Offspring Shop B4, 35 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay | T: 2812 2636 Owner Kirsty Last will help you pick out the best toys, accessories or furnishings to add personality and fun to your child’s existing space.

petite bazaar 9 Gough Street, Central | 80 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai T: 2528 0229 | www.petitbazaar.canalblog.com This is a truly beautiful store with some of the best French and European furniture and accessories.

Shabby Home No 189 G/F Po Tung Road, Sai Kung T: 2792 3112 | www.shabbyhome.com.hk Shabby Home contains a really lovely selection of antique chandeliers, lamps and furniture from France and beyond.

Summer 2011 81 photography Aimee K Photography styling Tracey Starr styling assistant Andrea Dann models Annabelle, Anya & James Special thanks to the Aberdeen Boat Club for providing a fabulous location, cool sailboat and warm hospitality.

here comes summer Cool and comfy cottons are perfect for long, hot days.

Annabelle wears layered frill tee, white, $320, and light- weight denim shorts in indigo, $450, both from Seed. Anya wears navy dress with sparkly silver applique, $1,785, Bonpoint. James wears beach festival tee, in white, $320, and boardshorts, in a mini-fish pattern, $450, both from Seed.

Anya wears lime green top with sparkly silver applique, $1,270, Bonpoint, and white shorts with flowered belt (not shown), $80, H&M. Annabelle wears green top with sparkly silver applique, $1,270, Bonpoint, and tan shorts with flowered belt (not shown), $80, H&M. James wears crab applique tee, $320, Seed, and striped surf shorts, $99, H&M. James wears button-down shirt, in washed navy linen, $515, patchwork shorts, $515, hat, in palest blue, $190, all from Seed. Annabelle wears striped sailor dress, navy, $450, Seed. Anya wears striped tee, in cherry, $255, and nautical cargo skirt, in navy, $450, both from Seed. Summer 2011 87 88 Playtimes Anya and Annabelle both wear kids pompom kaftans, in peony pink, $320, Sabina Swims. Top: Assorted swimwear, from left: girls one- piece swimsuit with butterfly applique and ruffle, $210, Marks & Spencer; boys swim trunks, blue stripes, 2-piece set, $165, Marks & Spencer; kids ruffle neck swimsuit, navy hearts, $350, Sabina Swims; girls one-piece swimsuit, blue with coloured circles, $135, Marks & Spencer; boys swim trunks, red fish, 2-piece set, $165, Marks & Spencer; kids ruffle neck swimsuit, white hearts, $350, Sabina Swims. Left: Purple sequined FitFlops, $490, Bumps to Babes; girls flower jelly sandals, tulip, $190, and girls t-bar jelly sandals, cherry, $190, both from Seed.

echoes f nature Escape the heat by spending a summer day inside creating wearable art with your kids. Anastassia’s Art House shows you how.

You’ll need: • One Pack of air-dry clay • Wooden tools to make patterns • Acrylic paint • Ribbon • Drinking straw • Small paintbrushes

Step 1: Mould the clay until it is soft. Step 2: Roll the soft clay into a sausage shape. Step 3: Divide the clay to smaller pieces. Step 4: Create different nature-inspired shapes from the clay, such as leaves, snails, lady bugs, butterflies, etc. Step 5: Use the straw to poke holes in each of the shapes. (In step 7, you’ll thread the ribbon through these holes.) Step 6: Paint your clay pieces with bright, summery colours. Step 7: When the clay and paint has dried, thread a ribbon through the holes and then tie on extra ribbons for decoration.

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stockists

APPAMAN MARGUERITE & GRIBOUILLI I www.marguerite-gribouilli.com Man Yee Arcade, Central MARKS & SPENCER BLOOM AND GROW I www.bloomandgrowdirect.com Times Square, 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay 2923 7970 BONPOINT Central Tower, 28 Queen’s Road Central, Central 2921 8059 Shop 325 Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central 2526 9969 3 Lung Poon Street, Diamond Hill 2927 6494 BUBBLE COUTURE I www.bubblecouture.com Telford Plaza 1, Kowloon Bay 2148 6012 BUMPS TO BABES Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong 2928 2213 5/F Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central 2522 7112 Cityplaza 1, 111 Kings Road, Taikoo Shing 2922 7234 21/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau 2552 5000 New Town Plaza 1, Shatin 2929 4332 COSMOBEEBIES I www.cosmobeebies.com Harbour City, 5 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui 2926 3346 FLEXA Shop 302 Level 3 Grand Central Plaza, 2688 2339 PARA’KITO I www.parakito.com 138 Shatin Rural Committee Road, Shatin OCHO H&M 51 Staunton Street, Central 2801 5988 68 Queen’s Road Central, Central 2110 9546 PETIT BAZAAR 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui 3521 1171 9 Gough Street, Central 2544 2255 Elements, Kowloon Station, Tsim Sha Tsui 2196 8391 80 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai 2528 0229 Langham Place, Mong Kok 3580 7621 POLLUX DISCOUNT BOOKS Unit 2101, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau 2873 6962 Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong 3106 6940 Shop 52, G/F Hong Kong Station, Central 2868 1498 Plaza Hollywood, Diamond Hill 3102 9143 SABINA SWIMS HOCUSADABRA I www.hocusadabra.com 1/F, 99F Wellington Street, Central KOKOON SEED Shops 12 and 13, 11/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, 2518 8382 Shop G115-G116, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay 2803 1677 Ap Lei Chau Lee Gardens Two, Shop 219-220, 28 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay 2577 0721 LITTLE PARISIANS I www.little-parisians.com Seibu, 88 Queensway, Pacific Place, Admiralty 2918 4085 MAKINA TREASURE I www.makina-treasure.com

distribution

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS PRIMARY SCHOOLS American Club; AWA Hong Kong; Hong Kong Jockey Club; Ladies Recreation Club; The International School of Macau; Carmel School; ESF Bradbury School; YWCA; Aberdeen Boat Club; Aberdeen Marina Club; American Country Club; AWA The Harbour School; ESF Kennedy School; International Montessori School; - First Time Moms; Hong Kong Cricket Club; Hong Kong Football Club; Royal Hong Kellett School; ESF Quarry Bay School; Kiangsu & Chekiang Primary School; ESF Kong Yacht Club; Kowloon Cricket Club; United Services Recreation Club; Gold Glenealy Junior School; Australian International School Hong Kong; Yew Chung Coast Yacht & Country Club; Hebe Haven Yacht Club; The Clearwater Bay Golf & International School; Clearwater Bay School; ESF Shatin Junior School; ESF Country Club; Discovery Bay Residents’ Club Renaissance College; Hong Lok Yuen School; Norwegian International School; Discovery Bay International School RETAIL STORES Bookazine; Bumps to Babes; Dymocks bookstores; Mothercare; Pret-a-Manger; BUSINESSES Rosarini; SmartyPants; ThreeSixty; Toys “R” Us; TOGS Unlimited; Wellcome; Tree; Citi Bank; Thomson Reuters; HSBC Wisekids; Cosmos Bookstore; BookAnd Zen; PapaMamaBabies; Metro Books; Early Learning Centre; Home Solutions EDUCATIONAL/EXTRA-CURRICULAR INSTITUTES HK Institute of Languages; Hong Kong Public Libraries; Kids’ Gallery Co. Ltd; HOTELS & RESTAURANTS QQ Club; Chameleon Workshop; Music Fun House; My Musik Box; Random Art Cake-A-Licious; Uncle Russ; The Flying Pan; Cru Bar & Grill; Mandarin Oriental Workshop; Wise Creative Centre; Noble Place; Anastassia’s Art House; Chatter Macau; Rocks Hotel; The Landmark Box; The Studio; Play & Learn Education Centre; Deborah Educational Institute HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS SPAS, SALONS & GYMS Annerley Community Midwifery Services; Balance Health; Body Group; Canossa O2 Hair Studio; Sense of Touch; The Retreat; Movement Improvement; Spa Hospital; Dr Lucy Lord & Associates; Matilda Child Development Centre; Matilda Philosophy Maternity REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS PRE-SCHOOLS Club Bel-Air; Hong Kong Parkview; Bamboo Grove Baby Buddies; Highgate House School; Panda Junction; Victoria (Belcher) Kindergarten; Woodlands; Sunshine House; The Montessori Mid-Levels LEASING & REMOVAL COMPANIES Pre-School; Casa dei Bambini; Hong Kong PIPS; Montessori for Children; Landscope Real Estate Services; Santa Fe Transport; Allied Pickfords; AGS Four Southside Kindergarten; Sunshine House; HKPPA; Alison’s Letterland; Sun Kids; Winds; Colliers International; Crown Relocation Services; Jones Lang La Salle; Wembley International Kindergarten; YMCA of HK International Kindergarten; ESF Pricoa Relocation; Proway Ltd Abacus International Kindergarten; Garden House; Littleton Discovery Playgroup; New Song Christian Kindergarten; Discovery Mind Kindergarten MARKETPLACE

96 Playtimes MARKETPLACE

Summer 2011 97 MARKETPLACE

98 Playtimes MARKETPLACE

Summer 2011 99 LAST WORD

When computers take over

Life’s going to be way more fun, says father-of-three Nury Vittachi.

umans will shortly start to merge Want to go on holiday to Sri Lanka? Simply cut with computers,” technology guru yourself and family from your present location using Ray Kurzweil said on TV recently. Control-X and paste yourselves onto a beach resort in What’s he talking about? It’s been Galle using Control-V. happening“h at my apartment for years. Someone annoying you at work or school? Go to All three of my kids have merged with gadgets. My the Control Panel and click the tab that says Add / son’s right hand was replaced by a Nintendo device Remove. Scroll down and Uninstall all the people you about six years ago. It’s no trouble. I’ve seen him do don’t like. all sorts of two-handed activities perfectly well with Lost your car keys or something similar? Click his current limb arrangement, although I have stopped Control-F and type the name of the object. Discover asking him to give me head massages. (The buttons that your clothes are out of date? Enable Automatic leave scars on my bald “patch”.) Update to keep your wardrobe renewed regularly. My daughters both have phones where their right The F1 button, also known as Help, will become ears used to be. All three are so permanently attached very useful. You can use it for small things such as to the laptops they hold in front of them that I haven’t doing your homework, or big things: “Get me someone seen the lower halves of their faces for years, as they to marry.” continue their all-hours spiritual communion with Getting old and wrinkly? No problem. Set the Facebook. display resolution to a lower number of pixels per Mr Kurzweil says that this process will accelerate virtual reality centimetre and those worry lines will to a point at which we will vanish. become non-biological Feel that life is entities living in alternate becoming all too much realities over which we for you? No problem. will have full control. The To suspend the present decision-makers in this existence, press Escape. brave new world will be the Scroll to the Start button current young generation – and find the menu item in other words, your kids and mine. that says Hibernate. Everything will stop for as long as I quite like this idea. I plan to request a keypad you like. When you are ready, press Restart to make it built into my left forearm. Here’s how I imagine it return to exactly where you were. working. And if you mess up your whole life? No problem. To leave a building, press Exit. To get back to your Press Control-Alt-Delete to go back to the beginning apartment, press Control / Home. and be born again. No need to feel ashamed that you Want to go shopping? Simply find a shelf of stuff didn’t get it right the first time. As the Bible says, “No you like and press Select / All. (My wife already does man shall enter the kingdom of heaven unless he is this, albeit by hand.) Then click the Cart icon in the top rebooted.” (That’s the revised version.) right of your peripheral vision to buy. To take a photo of Time to finish, or, as we computer people like to whatever you are looking at, press Print Screen. say, Shut Down. What about work? To get an assistant to do all your work for you, press Open Task Manager. If you say something stupid, press Cancel, then Undo or Control-Z. If it is a huge error (say you insult your boss’s mother), simply select a time from a drop down menu, say, 24 hours ago, and press System NURY VITTACHI WRITES A REGULAR HUMOUR Restore. COLUMN AT WWW.mRjAm.ORg.

100 Playtimes