Nic Parker Nic Grew up in Clear Water Bay and Attended Boundary Junior School and King George V School

June 2013

What he wants Think beyond the tie Balancing act Keep in touch when duty calls Building blocks A trip to Legoland

Celebrity spotlight: Annabel Karmel dishes with us about her newest book!

Editor-in-chief Tracey Starr t: 2201 9710 e: [email protected]

PUBLIcations director Jo Allum t: 2201 9719 e: [email protected]

Advertising ACCOUNT MANAGER Brian Tang: Florence Choy Wan Travel-writing contest finalist t: 2201 9721 Brian was born on a tropical island just north of the e: [email protected] equator and grew up both there as well as in the suburbs on the edge of a desert of red sand. Trained as a lawyer to combine words Advertising ACCOUNT MANAGER and deeds, Brian has lived and worked in the heart of (arguably) the world’s Vanessa Leuenberger financial capital, as well as the perennial hotbed of high-tech innovation, t: 2201 9711 e: [email protected] before moving to our fragrant harbour. Now a father of two boys, Brian is a hands-on dad who is on his son’s PTA board and hopes to help children better appreciate our wonderful world and want to make it better. Advertising ACCOUNT MANAGER Narelle Edwards e: [email protected]

Advertising ACCOUNT MANAGER Vanisha Khem t: 2201 9724 e: [email protected]

Art Director Timmy Ho Nic Parker Nic grew up in Clear Water Bay and attended Boundary Junior School and King George V School. It was in secondary school that she decided to strive Graphic Designer Eman Lam for a career as a speech and language therapist because the “speechies” she met at a career fair talked passionately about their profession. So, after high school, it was off to London for university to see what those ladies had been talking about. Thirteen years on, Nic herself is Layout Artist still as passionate about speech therapy as those ladies she met when she Tania Ho was 16, and thinks of her job as the chance to play all day and call it work. After working in London, Auckland and Sydney, she returned to Sai Kung with her young family and started her own speech, language and literacy CEO practice – True Communication – which provides therapy services to the David Tait local community. t: 2201 9727 e: [email protected]

FOR Subscriptions & Distribution t: 2201 9716

CONTRIBUTORS: Melanie Adamson; Orla Breeze; Aquin Dennison- Mathew; Rennie Fensham; Gillian Johnston; Ingird Keneally; Rachel Kenney; Elle Kwan; Katie McGregor; Jill Mortensen; Nic Parker; Priscilla Soligo; Brian Tang; Nury Vittachi

Published by: PPP Company Ltd, Unit 713, Level 7, Core E Cyberport 3, 100 Cyberport Road Cyberport, Hong Kong Tel: +852 2201 9716 PRINTED by: Paramount Printing Company 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, 2012 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. June 2013 1 welcome Tracey and her awesome dad, 1976

ey, dads – this month we’re talking especially to you. We know that many of you are out there, reading faithfully each month, and that sometimes we get a bit focused on the mum- H stuff. We’re delighted to have you aboard, though, and this month we’re celebrating your special day with lots of articles that we hope will appeal to you. Does your work require frequent travel? Read on for tips on helping your kids cope with your absences. Are you expecting your first baby soon? If you’re struggling a bit to find a new role in your growing family, we’ve got expert advice inside. Have you received one too many ties for past Father’s Day gifts? We’ve got a feature inside that you can show to your wife and kids to lead them down the road to a better, more meaningful gift – one that doesn’t cost a thing. One feature this month that’s for you, but not directed at you, hit particularly close to home for me. In her light-hearted, but always insightful way, Orla Breeze calls mums out on the need to apologise. In my home, I’ve got a pesky habit of assuming my hubby needs my input on every little thing. Now, my husband is both smart and competent: so confident am I about his abilities that I entrusted both of our futures to him when we up and moved to Shanghai ten years ago. And yet, with a dish towel in his hand, or a tip to contemplate at a restaurant, I’m continually sure he needs me to tell him what to do. Yes, this is as unnecessary as it is overbearing. Luckily, he doesn’t bother complaining, but rather goes about tackling those daily tasks with the same skill and competence with which he manages multi-million dollar deals at the office. I think I’m going to pin Orla’s piece up on the fridge, for all those times I need a little reminder. Today and every day, we’re glad for the husbands and dads in our lives, and the whole team at Playtimes wishes all of you a very happy Father’s Day!

Thanks for reading,

Tracey Starr, Editor-in-Chief

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June 2013

FROM70 DUDE TO DAD

82 NETWORK SUPPORT 60 What a dad Wants

news 26 OOPS, I DID IT AGAIN! Although sorry seems to be the hardest 8 WHAT’S ON word to say, it’s time we mums gave it a go. A look at what’s going on this month 28 IN YOUR OPINION 10 HOT OFF THE PRESS Readers’ thoughts on timely topics Hip new shops, services and products resources 20 FINGER ON THE PULSE Relevant news from around the world 30 TOY BOX Toys that teach and amuse 22 ECO HERO Ideas and products for greener living 32 BOOKSHELF Perfect picks for reading together advice 34 HAPPY CAMPERS Oodles of options for kids’ summer camps Photography 24 BEAUTY 101 Top tips for dads Melanie Adamson 118 STOCKISTS See something you like? We’ll tell you where Model to get it. Tommy

Clothes Tommy wears striped collared shirt, $955, grey cardigan with detail, $1,350, grey thin tie, $900, and check shorts, $1,175, all Bookshelf from Bonpoint. pg 32 Toy Box Eco Hero pg 30 pg 22

June 2013 5 June 2013

SNACK 111 ATTACK! 100 OLD SCHOOL’S GOING THE NEW 64 DISTANCE

features

54 IN HER OWN WORDS: 78 RAINBOW CONNECTION 94 TRAVEL-WRITING CONTEST FINALIST: ANNABEL KARMEL How do you help multicultural children BUILT FOR FUN Celebrity chef Annabel Karmel dishes identify with both parents’ cultures? If you’ve got a Lego fan in your family, to editor-in-chief Tracey Starr about Asia’s first Legoland is well worth a trip. her newest cookbook and her ideas for 82 NETWORK SUPPORT encouraging your mini chefs. Visual aids and apps on your 100 OLD SCHOOL’S NEW smartphones, tablets and gadgets We take inspiration from the 1960s 60 WHAT A DAD WANTS can help you handle your young child’s and style up the classic silhouette of Take the faff out of Father’s Day. behaviour difficulties. shirts, ties and shorts.

64 GOING THE DISTANCE 86 YOUNG AT HEART 111 SNACK ATTACK! With business trips now a normal Can we protect our little girls from Whip up some healthy snacks, with requirement for many parents, how can growing up too fast? recipes from gourmet raw food chef families keep their bonds intact? and mum Priscilla Soligo. 92 BLIND FAITH 70 FROM DUDE TO DAD Hong Kong’s Ebenezer School and Home 128 LAST WORD Finding a role in the new family unit isn’t for the Visually Impaired has grown into a Being a dad gives us superpowers, always easy for Dad. lifesaver for thousands of families. writes father-of-three Nury Vittachi.

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June The hottest happenings around town

until 16 6 Faust Festival Catch young and talented actors as they perform on stage and share SHK Private and Top Schools host a The children of KinderU Suzuki Music their passion. Learn more about the seminar on education planning, including Academy play Bach and Beethoven at performances at www.faustworld.com. finding a place and paying for it. Email their Grand Concert at Hong Kong Baptist Buy tickets at www.urbtix.hk. [email protected] to book. University. Click www.suzukihk.org. 9 15

Experienced international school headmaster Neil Richards MBE presents “Educating Children in the 21st Century” at the SMART Investment & International Property Expo. Visit www.smartexpos.com.

Learn about the effects of pregnancy on joints, muscular and neural systems, and posture, and what you can do to mitigate them. Click www.geckoyoga.com.

18 26 Massage stimulates your baby’s development and 12/7 senses, and provides Spend an evening at the Mandarin great bonding P1 Admission Talk Oriental with other mums-to-be, where opportunities. Learn Po Leung Kuk Camões Tan Siu Lin Primary you’ll learn from pregnancy and baby how to do it from School hosts P1 admission talks for 2014- experts and enjoy food, drinks, prizes and the experts. Click 15: 3pm, in English; 5:15pm and 7:15pm, in goody bags. Visit www.annerley.com.hk. www.annerley.com.hk. Cantonese. Visit www.plkctslps.edu.hk.

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Building blocks We already know that kids love to play with Lego bricks, but now at Bricks 4 Kidz students can experience hands-on engineering fundamentals whilst learning about architecture and science. Bricks 4 Kidz’s fun and educational classes develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Classes are suitable for children of all ages, from a pre-schooler building with alphabet blocks and animals, to a young teen building and programming robots or making movies. Pre-school and after-school programmes are available, as well as birthday parties, field trips and camps for children aged three to 14 years. Visit www.bricks4kidz.hk to build up your knowledge. hot off the press Dress like Read all about it! Dad First News, an award-winning British children’s newspaper, Does your little boy like to has come to Hong Kong. Launched in 2006, First News is dress up like his dad? If so, a weekly, full-colour tabloid newspaper aimed at young the new collection from readers aged seven to 14 years. Topics covered include As Little As will please the latest world and UK news, science, the environment, them both, especially for animals, fitness, sport, entertainment and books. Kids will Father's Day. This online learn all about the stories behind the headlines and get Hong Kong children’s into the habit of reading the news. To find out more, clothing company stocks email [email protected]. matching outfits for men and mini men, alongside clothes for girls and boys aged 18 months to ten years, all fashioned from superior fabrics. See their silhouettes and styles at www.as-little-as.com.

10 Playtimes Designed for Dad Cupcake Designs specialises in personalised scrolls. To design the perfect Father’s Day gift, simply think of 15 things Dad likes to do and Cupcake Designs will create a scroll just for him. All posters are available in two sizes and are printed on high quality matte paper, ready to fit into a standard frame. Order by 10 June to guarantee local delivery in time for Father’s Day. See samples at www.cupcakedesigns.biz. Glorious gliding

Party on! After living in Hong Kong for eight years, mum-of-two Adriana Ryan found options limited for throwing quality, fun and British brand Olli Ella designs beautiful and stylish pieces for unique birthday parties for children. Inspired by her passion the modern nursery. They believe that since nursing chairs for planning parties for her daughters and for grateful friends, are one of the most essential items for new mums and Adriana created Beau Party, offering creative, stress-free dads, they should be ergonomic, comfortable and chic. themed events. Once provided with a theme, Adriana Their glider chairs rock and are loved by parents around can assist with personalised invitations, thank you cards, the world. The Da-Da Glider has clean lines, a gorgeous table settings, party favours and craft ideas. She can even silhouette and comes with a removable lumbar pillow. Even organise entertainment, food and birthday cakes for busy better, when baby grows too big for rocking, the Da-Da parents and demanding kids. Plan your party by emailing will happily graduate to the living room. The glider costs [email protected], or calling 9770 4749. $13,490 at Tiny Footprints. Music to my ears Perfect Pitch Music Centre has everything an aspiring musician could possibly need. Offering lessons on almost any instrument and for any age, it’s the perfect place for children to begin their musical education. The centre has become a hub for many parents who want to bring music into their family lives. Auntie Brenda, founder of Perfect Pitch Music Centre and Do Re Mi Studio, believes that unless children are interested in music, they can’t enjoy life to the fullest. Find them at 147 Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley (2894 9825), and Universal Trade Centre, 17-19 Caine Road, Central (2522 7081).

June 2013 11 Colourful concepts

Hearts and minds BIVA is a concept store where parents can find playful, stylish, eco-friendly and functional children’s products, Anfield is a well-respected kindergarten and primary school. including furniture, home accessories, educational toys, As a Roman Catholic school, Anfield’s prime aim is to educate bags and school supplies. Their designs are modern and the hearts and minds of each and every child by providing imported directly from the US, Canada and Europe. Let the highest quality care within a safe, inspiring environment BIVA bring colour into your home and life. Visit their newest – which is integral to the quality of teaching and standards shop at G/F, 151 Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley, achieved. June is the month when all students at the Kowloon which is due to open in early June. Other BIVA shops are Tong campus enjoy performing the “8 Rhyme Challenge”. located in Causeway Bay and Stanley. Find them on There will be rope skipping, clapping chants and nursery Facebook at www.facebook.com/bivahk. rhyme presentations – all of which research shows can improve reading outcomes. Learn more at www.anfield.edu.hk. Tailor-maid The HK Hub and Baby Bloom have teamed up to present Maid for You, a brand new database of available, pre-interviewed domestic helpers who are looking for new employment. The team meets all candidates and uploads the information themselves to guarantee consistency and quality. The information and profiles are easy to read and access, allowing you to quickly arrange interviews and hire a helper faster. Check it out at www.thehkhub.com/maidforyou. Four lucky readers will each win a one-month subscription, worth $350. Email [email protected] by 30 June and include “Win Maid for You” in the subject line. Stanley school The International Montessori School (IMS) has been awarded a vacant school location in Stanley, which will allow them to expand their primary school network to the south side. “The addition of over 700 new international school places through the Stanley campus will allow us to meet the demand for IMS’ high quality education, and continue our work of nurturing children to become happy, confident and successful bilingual learners,” says Anne Sawyer, IMS’ co-founder. They plan to launch the Stanley campus and welcome the first students in 2013-14. Stanley will complement current campuses in Tin Hau, South Horizons and Sheung Wan. Learn more at www.montessori.edu.hk.

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Baby boosters To optimise your newborn’s health, immune system and development, an integrated approach is essential. IMI understands that it can be difficult to know what’s best for your baby and where to seek advice. So if you need guidance on optimising baby’s well-being, boosting immunity and brain development, choosing medications and selecting a vaccination plan, sign up for IMI’s Healthy Happy Baby Package. The package costs $2,650 and includes three consultations with their naturopath, homeopath and osteopath. Mention Playtimes to receive complimentary samples when joining during June (while stock lasts). For more details, visit www.imi.com.hk. Music maestros Protect Hong Kong’s homegrown youth your pets orchestra, Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Hong Kong (MYO), is currently recruiting top musicians to join its ten-day Musikverein Vienna Performance Tour this July. The tour will include a masterclass by musicians from the Vienna Philharmonic and three concerts will be performed by the MYO. Until 28 June, MYO is holding auditions every Friday from 6pm to 7pm at the Cultural Centre. Orchestral students under the age of 16 (qualified with ABRSM This month sees the launch of Homevet, Grade 8 or above) should prepare two music pieces of their choice to perform. a veterinary house-call service run Musicians who pass the auditions are required to attend weekly rehearsals before by British vet Dr Matthew Murdoch. heading to Vienna on 22 July. Learn more at www.myohk.com. Matthew, who has worked in Hong Kong since 2005, established Homevet to provide better home care for elderly or poorly pets and aids recuperation with Creative chic the back-up of a fully equipped clinic. With flexible hours, bilingual services One of Hong Kong's leading children’s clothing brands, and affordable costs, it means one less Chickeeduck, has just opened its first flagship store thing for busy parents to worry about. in Causeway Bay. The new store provides a spacious Matthew is well aware of parental stress, and upscale shopping environment. Kids will enjoy a being dad to two small children himself. unique shopping experience with different events, Read more at www.homevet.com.hk, or such as drawing and painting, and t-shirt- and shopping bag-design call 9860 5522. classes. Visit the shop at 13/F, One Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Monday to Saturday, from 11am to 8pm. Literacy and language

The Orton-Gillingham (OG) Approach, a methodology invented in the 1920s, has become a seminal and influential intervention designed expressly for remediating the language processing problems of children and adults with dyslexia. For the first time in Hong Kong, there will be an OG pre-school English course this August. The training course is specially designed by Ron Yoshimoto for pre-school and kindergarten teachers who wish to use the OG approach in their literacy component, even for children with literacy difficulties. For more information, call 2525 8998, or email [email protected].

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Mind over matter It's possible that many of us only use our minds like a calculator, rather than the super-computer we possess. Most people use the left brain in their daily lives, whilst the more powerful right brain is under- used. The key to unlocking your potential might be MindScape – a workshop that teaches participants to use their remarkable inner mind faculties. Learn Expanding to improve your memory, heal your body, reduce stress and improve performance. Unlock your creative genius at one of the seminars by Angie education Tourani on 15 June (from 2pm to 8pm) and 16 June (from 10am to 6pm). Discover more at www.bodytalksystem.com.hk. Following an extensive tender process, the Hong Kong Education Bureau has awarded Nord Anglia Education a 660-place school in Lam Tin, Kowloon, which will open in September 2014. Drawing on over 40 years’ experience, Fun fitness Nord Anglia Education aims to create Flex offers Capoeira for kids at their swanky new a world-class school for primary and studio at One Island South (2 Heung Yip Rd, lower secondary students, following Aberdeen). Capoeira is an ancient Brazilian martial the National Curriculum of England art developed as a means of self-defence, which and Wales. The new school will also be has evolved into a display of physical dexterity and a teaching school, offering practical a complete form of self-expression. Capoeira lets professional development to more than children strengthen their bodies, make friends, sing, 250 local teachers annually. The Nord play instruments and express themselves in a fun Anglia Education family includes 14 environment. Classes cost $1,900 for ten lessons, premium schools, with more than 2,000 whilst drop-in sessions are $220. Check the staff teaching over 10,000 students across schedule at www.flexhk.com. Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Do your homework at www.nordanglia.com. From pans to pressies

The colourful Le Creuset Baby Gift Collection now includes a baby mug, $278, and photo frame, $438. This collection of gifts for babies and children has matching colour gift boxes and gift bags. Le Creuset is best known for its colourful enamelled cast iron casseroles, and since 1925 it has become one of the world’s most distinguished brands in cookware. Made in France, Le Creuset’s enamelled cast iron pots, pans, cooking and serving dishes are complemented by a range of wine accessories. Visit the flagship shop at G/F, 31C-D Wyndham Street, Central. Free party planner If you find it stressful organising a birthday party, ensuring it goes smoothly, making sure guests have a great time and your child has a wonderful and memorable day, then call on Andrew the Brilliant Balloon Man. Andrew has entertained at more than 5,000 children’s birthday parties around the world over the last 20 years and has put together a book of his top tips to help organise and run a children’s party. The Party Planning Guide is packed with ideas, tips and resources to make your next party stress-free. Playtimes readers can receive a free copy by visiting www.thebrilliantballoonman.com/playtimes.

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finger on the pulse

In the West, men die roughly five years earlier than women, in part because they’re less likely to go to the doctor, get enough sleep, eat right, or even wear Healthy a seat belt. But one of the benefits of having a family is that a baby could change all that. Many men get their first physical as adults after their first child is born. And a survey found fatherhood motivated men to eat a healthier diet, exercise more, drink less and put themselves in dangerous situations less often. Experts say the transition to fatherhood is a surprisingly good time to break living bad habits and establish healthier ones – since there’s so much change going on anyway – and that new dads could take advantage of this by establishing new routines like joining a gym or seeing a nutritionist. source: WhattoExpect.com Fatherly Let’s talk about Fathers’ parenting A majority of British styles have a major parents have revealed fat influence on children's in a recent survey weight, says an Australian study that looked sex that, when it comes to at almost 5,000 children, aged four to five teaching the kids about years, and their parents. The researchers the birds and the bees, found that fathers with permissive (no limits it will be Mum, rather than on their children) or disengaged parenting Dad. The research also revealed styles were more likely to have overweight that ten years is the age parents or obese children, while fathers with a would prefer their children to be consistent (clear limits, following through when they have the talk. When with instructions, etc.) style were less likely to parents were asked who would be have children with a higher body mass index better at teaching a child about sex, a (BMI). There was no association between fifth said school teachers over dads. The survey the mothers’ parenting styles and children’s seems to reveal a generational change in attitudes weight, said the study authors from the towards sex education. Although Mum will be the Centre for Community Child Health at the one to have the chat now, over a third of parents Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, and revealed that when they were children, they learnt about the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. sex from their friends, 20 per cent learnt from their mums, and just two per cent source: HealthDay News learnt from their dads. source: Female First TV’s not terrible Spending hours watching TV or playing computer games each day does not harm young children’s social development, say experts. The UK-based Medical Research Council team, who studied more than 11,000 primary school pupils, says it is wrong to link bad behaviour to TV viewing. Although researchers found a small correlation between the two, they said other influences, such as parenting styles, most probably explain the link. But they still say, “Limit screen time.” This cautionary advice is because spending lots of time in front of the TV every day might reduce how much time a child spends doing other important activities such as playing with friends and doing homework, they said. source: BBC News

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Nurture with nature This month, StoryBox, the award- winning monthly magazine to share with your little ones aged three to six years, has a special nature issue. Young readers will discover a beautiful story in “Little Tree Grows Big”. They’ll find out why we need trees in the science section, learn about lots of insects in the animal section, play games with the leaf elves, and follow the adventures of SamSam, the smallest of the cosmic heroes who stands up against the litter bugs. What a programme! A subscription costs $490 for ten issues. To Kids learn more, visit www.bayard.com.hk. on the go Anxious about flying long-haul with your little ones? Not looking forward to jet- lagged toddlers? Let Hong Kong-based eco hero Native Essentials come to the rescue. Specialising in bespoke aromatherapy botanicals, they’ve launched a Little Smooth cheeks Travellers kit for toddlers aged 18 months and up. The set, $480, is 100 In this humid weather, babies and toddlers often suffer per cent organic and easy to use, with from diaper rash. Ease the pain with Badger Organic four essential oil blends. Encourage Diaper Cream, paediatrician-tested and approved to your kids to inhale the oils to help them treat and prevent diaper rash. The calendula extract is fall asleep (and stay asleep!), calm rich in antioxidants and vitamins which helps calm babies, motion sickness, boost immunity and whilst the zinc oxide safely helps baby’s irritated skin heal ease breathing. Leak-proof carry cases faster. The cream is hypoallergenic, so it’s safe for even very come in pink or blue. Order your kit sensitive skin on babies, kids and adults. Simply cleanse from www.nativessentials.com before the area, pat dry, and then apply an even layer of cream. 30 June and receive a complimentary It’s suitable for daily use for good protection without bad roll-on Baby After Bite, valued at $80. ingredients. Badger Organic Diaper Cream, $165, is now available at www.alphanaturehk.com. Build and bond With Funny Paper Furniture kids can easily assemble items, without using glue or tools, whilst learning about space and structures. Products include the Miley Chair, Desk, and kids’ favourite, the Miley House. Playing with the furniture lets parents and kids build family bonds. Little ones learn about creativity and cooperation. Made in Korea in compliance with international safety standards, these products are eco-friendly and recyclable. Funny Paper is made of 85 per cent recycled paper that’s lightweight yet sturdy, and with no sharp edges. For enquiries, call 5469 1335, or you can find them at HOMELESS stores or online at www.funnypaper.com.hk.

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Must-have for men Because of Hong Kong’s high humidity and pollution, men Facial typically have to shampoo their hair twice as often as they would in other climates. That means finding the best work-out? product for you is doubly important. The face has a multitude of small muscles, American Crew offers my favourite line for men. Living which, like the rest of our musculature, up to their slogan “A classic man in a modern world,” can be exercised and toned. If years of American Crew’s range of shampoos, conditioners and hard work and stress are making you look styling products won’t leave your hair smelling like roses or older than you like, exercising your facial have you feeling like you’ve crossed over a line into girlish muscles might just be the solution for you. grooming that seems a little too high-maintenance. Take a break from email and search for I recommend starting with their Tea Tree Balancing “face muscle exercises” to see for yourself. Shampoo, which is a soothing cleanser for your hair and scalp that provides just the right amount of moisture. Ingredients like echinacea – a natural antiseptic and healer – are combined with nettle to nourish and Award-winning strengthen hair. This shampoo can also be used to treat hair stylist and mild cases of dry scalp or seborrheic dermatitis. make-up artist Rennie Fensham is well-known for her passion and skills. Her glamorous background spans 30 years of working in beauty, fashion and TV, in South Africa, the US and, beauty 101 for the last seven years, in Hong Kong. Check out her salon, Hollywood Hair, at 23F, 1 Duddell Street, Central. Joe Cool Beauty tips aren’t just for mums. Doesn’t everyone, after all, want to look their best? Here are my top five tips for dads. 1. Trim those nose hairs! (Hey, mums and kids: A trimmer would make a great Father’s Day gift.) 2. Clean up your eyebrows. Neat eyebrows will make you look younger and your features look stronger. (Perhaps a voucher for an eyebrow wax would be a welcomed gift, too?) 3. Get a good haircut. Find a good hair stylist who will also clean up your neck hair regularly and trim the unwanted hairs in your ears. 4. Keep your fingernails short and clean, and don’t be afraid to use lotion to soften up your hands. On your next business trip, consider getting a manicure at your hotel. 5. Cleanse your face regularly with a facial soap. So many men use the same soap on their body and face. Body soaps are typically too strong for the face and end up drying out your skin – which will make you look older. You don’t need to use your wife’s girlie stuff: today, there’s a wide variety of products available that are formulated especially for men.

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oops, I did it again! Although sorry seems to be the hardest word to say, it’s time we mums gave it a go, writes Orla Breeze.

ums! We need to You: Yeah, I’m going right this minute … Um, limits on their abilities or worry that they’re apologise. I mean proper, you are going to put a bib on him, right? not ready to try something new. Our kids heads-hanging-in-shame Hubby: I wasn’t going to but … are far more confident in themselves Mapologise. For we have You: I know, I know. It seems trivial, but, because of him. They eat foods I would done our men a great disservice. Yes, I honestly, it really makes things easier if … never have dreamed of feeding them know. This is hard to acknowledge and Hubby: ... we both stick to the usual because of him. Where I thought, No even harder to accept. How could we routine. I get it. way! he thought, Why not? super-capable, all-knowing parenting You: Thanks. OK. I’m really going this time. So mums, with Father’s Day upon virtuosos ever need to apologise for Oh my god! You can’t feed him that! He us, let us take a vow to apologise not just anything? But I’m afraid that we do. doesn’t have enough teeth! because it will make our men happy, Allow me to illustrate: Hubby: Seriously? I think he has plenty of but because it will make us happy, too. Hubby: Surprise! I’ve booked you into your teeth. He’ll be fine. Go. Enjoy yourself. As soon as we release the need for favourite spa for a two-hour treatment. You: No, no he won’t. Believe me, I know everything to be done our way, we begin You: You have? Honey, you’re the best. these things. Stick to the routine, yeah? to see that Dad is as capable as we are Hubby: Well, you deserve a break. I’ll Hubby: Starts heading towards the door of taking care of the kids. In his way. And take care of little Johnny. Don’t you worry You: Where are you going? with that realisation, we are free to go about a thing. We’ll have ourselves some Hubby: Who me? Oh, I’m just going to the have that spa session without worrying father-son bonding time. Won’t we, pub for a couple of hours. about what’s happening back home. Johnny? You: The pub!? What about my spa session? Wouldn’t that be the best Father’s Day You: Well, OK then, if you’re sure. I’ll just Hubby: Well, it just makes things easier ever? Him at home with the kids, you grab my bag and … Oh, you’re not going if we both stick to the usual routine, you having a hot stone massage? Oh wait, to feed him on the floor, are you? know? Door slams. I’m doing it again. Maybe just ask him Hubby: Um, yes? And therein lies the problem. how he’d like to spend his special day. You: Could you just put him in the high According to marriage experts, one of the Happy Father’s Day, dads! chair instead? It’s what he’s used to, you main reasons men end up resenting their know? wives is because we don’t give them the Orla Breeze is the founder of Joyful Hubby: I just thought it would be fun for us chance to be the kind of fathers they want Parenting, offering workshops, evenings to pretend we’re having a picnic. to be. Ouch! How often have we played and individual sessions that focus You: Firmly shaking head out that little scene in our own families? on changing your kids’ behaviour Hubby: No? OK then. High chair it is. How often have we complained that they by changing your own. Her popular You: Thanks, sweetheart. It just makes don’t pitch in enough, whilst happily telling workshops, including Daddy 101 things easier if we both stick to the usual them how to parent when they do? and Second Time Around, are run in routine. There are things that Dad can partnership with Annerley (www.annerley. Hubby: Right, sure, of course. So, see you teach the kids that we just can’t. Take my com.hk). For more information, dates and later then? husband, for example. He doesn’t put times, visit www.orlabreeze.com.

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grew up with an older sister in Mumbai and our dad was quite hen I was in school, he would give me protective about us. When we pocket money every day. If I told him I reached our teens, he gave us that I hadn’t yet spent the money from a book on sex education and wrote Wthe previous day, he would tell me to inside it: “Knowledge is power, keep the new day’s money anyway, and advised me ignorance is AIDS.” –Tarana that while one must have money in their pocket, they needn’t spend it all. –Priya

hen things looked bad for the the football team he managed, my each out, see the world, meet the Wdad always told them, people, be kind, be helpful and “Keep yer heads up, lads!” –Micheline Rbe friendly. –Eunice

y dad always had a gut instinct about any boys I dated, always telling me they weren't right for me. It was often infuriating, but the Mfirst time I took my now-husband home and Dad was introducing him to everyone as his future son-in- law, it made me realise he’d been right all along! –Brooke

e diplomatic. In ake time seriously, Bother words, speak Tbecause once it’s the truth sweetly. –Shiv gone it’s gone. –Reema

We asked: What’s the best advice your dad ever gave you? in your opinion

henever I “ ife is not fair and the sooner you know it, the better.” He must have had a “big said that several times in my early teens to stop me comparing my Wquestion”, my situation to others. His bigger and lasting message was to just get father would say, “Go Lon with things and not worry about others' opinions – to just focus get the encyclopaedia on my own matters and path. –Ann and let’s find out together.” –Andreas

hen he gave me my first pportunity does not knock at your door: it is credit card, my dad said: like air, floating around you. When you see Never spend more than you one and grab it, then it becomes yours. Open Whave. –Jo Oyour eyes wide and seize it.” –June y father told me to be myself. He said I would have my fair share ever leave the of ups and downs, I’d goof and say the wrong thing, and I’d feel Nhouse without as small as a mouse when I’d made a complete fool of myself, your door key and Mbut these are the learning curves of life. He told me to go and money. –Fiona experience life as “me”, tackling the curves of life along the way. –Pamela

lways wear a helmet and boots when horse riding, nowledge can’t be bought, so read as Awhich came to mean, in everything you do, always Kmuch as you can. –Mehernaaz be safe. –Kathryn

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toy box 1 Big Crane Construction Set 3 Rivetz Build a Racer $425 $199 Age 3 to 8 years Age 6+ years This working crane can lift loads and Using the tools provided, kids connect swivel them round, and the included toy each individual section with rivets workers and their vehicles will help get to build a sporty racing car model. the job done. Mistakes are easily corrected, too. 5 Available from Bumps to Babes Available from Bumps to Babes 5 LeapPad2 2 Autoclassic Bolido Tornado 4 Tool Set by Green Toys $1,100 $949 $390 Age 3 to 9 years Age 1 to 3 years Age 2+ years This award-winning toy features front- Powered by little feet, this ride-on car No job is too big for this 15-piece tool kit, and rear-facing cameras and video allows your kids to relive the classic Grand which includes a tool box, hammer, saw, recorders, and allows your kids to create Prix races. wrench, pliers, screwdrivers and more. and feature in their own cartoons. Available from ItsImagical Available from Tiny Footprints Available from Toys“R”Us

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The Dangerous Book for Boys by Conn Iggulden and Hal Iggulden $135 In this age of mobile phones and video games, surely there must still be a place for knots, tree houses and stories of incredible courage? Available from Tiny Footprints

Darth Vader and Son by Jeffrey Brown $105 What if Darth Vader took an active role in raising his son? What if, “Luke, I am your father,” was just a stern admonishment from an annoyed dad? Available from Booklodge

Faster! Faster! by Leslie Patricelli $149 A day at the park; a ride on Daddy’s back. This is a funny tale about doting dads and high-energy kids whose imaginations know no bounds. bookshelf Available from Fishpond

My Dad Is Big And Strong, BUT … Daddies Do It Different My Dad Thinks He’s Funny A Bedtime Story by Alan Lawrence Sitomer by Katrina Germein by Coralie Saudo $136 $119 $136 Daddy sure doesn’t do things the way Anyone who’s got a dad who makes One boy’s playful account of trying to put Mummy does! This is a high-spirited look them laugh – or makes them roll their his dad to sleep will give kids some insight at the way dads put their own spin on eyes – will enjoy this sweet and silly into what pains they can be at bedtime! parenting. book. Available from ShopinHK Available from Paddyfield Available from Dymocks

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This summer, why not try a camp that piques new interests or stretches your kids’ muscles, both mentally and physically?

Beyond borders EdVenture Summer Fun Camps allow campers to enjoy a iStudy International Limited offers camps, including academic hands-on, outdoor experience focused on developing botany, and English courses, sport, movies, music, arts and more, zoology and geography skills by exploring forests, farms, lakes, designed to help your children make their summer fun and springs and mountain trails. worthwhile. When: 1 to 19 July When: 8 July to 24 August Where: Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan Where: Oswestry, Shropshire, UK Who: Ages 3 to 10 years Who: Ages 4 to 13, with a parent; 13 to 18 years How much: JPY39,000 per week. Playtimes readers receive a 5% How much: From GBP850 per week discount. Contact: 2165 4146; [email protected]; www.istudy.hk Contact: 9381 9853; [email protected]; www.edventureglobal.com Ivy Summer Chinese Immersion Program 2013 provides a fun, effective Chinese immersion experience for kids, under Green Camp allows students to connect with nature and the tutelage of Chinese teachers with international school Balinese culture in ways that are fun, enriching, and that experience. develop leadership skills and a greater awareness of When: 1 to 12 July; 15 to 26 July sustainability issues. Where: Dongcheng District, Beijing When: Throughout the summer Who: Ages 5 to 9 years Where: Sibang Kaja, Bali, Indonesia How much: RMB5,600. Playtimes readers receive a 5% discount. Who: Ages 5 to 18 years Contact: 9036 2633; [email protected]; www.ivyschools.com How much: From USD200 for a three-day programme Contact: +62 361 469 875; [email protected]; The British International School Phuket offers two summer www.greencampbali.com boarding camps: Sport & Adventure Summer Camp, with sport, activities and trips; and English Language Camp, with ESL tuition International Summer Camp and Junior Golf Academy offer every morning, followed by varied activities. kids a chance to study German or English and enjoy an action- When: 30 June to 27 July packed sports or golf programme, all in the Swiss Alps. Where: Phuket, Thailand When: 14 to 27 July; 28 July to 10 August Who: Ages 8 to 15 years Where: Zuoz, Switzerland How much: THB75,000 to THB80,000 for four weeks Who: Ages 10 to 15 years Contact: +66 (0) 7633 5555; [email protected]; How much: CHF4,000 to CHF9,050 www.bisphuket.ac.th/communities/summer-camps/ Contact: +41 81 851 30 28; [email protected]; www.lyceum-alpinum.ch

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Artistic endeavours DIY Summer Jobs offers kids the chance to try four fun jobs: little dessert chef, little jeweller, little artist, and little soaper. When: 1 July to 31 August Where: Lai Chi Kok Who: Ages 3 to 12 years How much: $980 for four lessons Contact: 3998 3483; [email protected]; www.kucheworkshop.com How much: $340 to $2,600. Enrol in multiple classes and receive Creative Minds by Hong Kong Art Tutoring offers kids the a discount. opportunity to create and develop their own ideas and Contact: 2501 4842; [email protected]; techniques in drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. www.kidsgallery.com When: 24 June to 23 August Where: North Point Little Gems Summer Program offers art classes that develop Who: Ages 8 to 14 years children’s artistic skills and confidence in describing their How much: $800 to $1,000 per programme artistic visions. Other subjects offered include creative writing, Contact: 9722 8353; [email protected]; composition and vocabulary enrichment. http://hkarttutoring.com/ When: June through to August Where: Causeway Bay Ethnic Instruments Adventure by Tutti Music introduces children Who: Ages 5 to 12 years to beautifully hand-crafted musical instruments from around How much: From $150 per hour the world. Contact: 2891 2691; [email protected]; When: 2 July to 22 August www.littlegems.com.hk Where: Olympic Station Who: Ages 30 months to 4 years My Musical Studio’s Summer Fun programme allows your kids to How much: $4,000 for 12 classes. Playtimes readers: enrol before become the superstars they were born to be. They’ll sing, dance 9 June to receive a 20% discount. and act. A judo playgroup is also available. Contact: 2331 2068; [email protected]; When: 1 July to 31 August www.tmusic.com.hk Where: Wan Chai Who: Ages 6 months to 12 years Fabric Art Summer Camp affords kids the opportunity to learn How much: $540 per half-day camp; $1,200 per five-day camp; fabric design techniques and experiment with fabric textures, $250 per judo session. Playtimes readers receive a 5% discount design media, fabric crafting and creative sewing. (not to be combined with other discounts). When: 8 July to 16 August Contact: 3665 0700; [email protected]; Where: Mid-Levels www.mymusicalstudio.com Who: Ages 4 to 16 years How much: $1,350 to $2,100 per week Performing Arts Summer Camp at Sonia Herron Academy of Contact: 9281 5290; [email protected]; Jazz offers circus-themed dance fun for wee ones, and jazz, hip www.wix.com/fabricfun/fun hop and more for the older kids. When: 2 to 31 July Hong Kong Repertory Theatre presents its 2013 Summer Where: Ma On Shan Children’s Drama Course – in Cantonese – where kids will study Who: Ages 16 months to 18 years with qualified tutors from a local professional theatre company. How much: From $180 to $220 per session. Playtimes readers: When: Throughout July and August buy five sessions and get one free. Where: Cheung Sha Wan; North Point; Sheung Wan Contact: 2630 0076; [email protected]; Who: Grades K1 to P6 www.academyofjazz.com How much: $1,400 to $2,500 Contact: 3791 2984; 3102 2981; [email protected]; Pitter Painter Summer Workshop takes your budding artist on an www.hkrep.com/courses/childrencourse_1/ artistic journey of subjects and techniques, giving them a new and different project each week. Kids’ Gallery camp subjects include art, musical theatre, soap- When: 8 to 11 July; 22 to 25 July making, food art, ballet, magic, jewellery design, and public Where: Central speaking. Who: Ages 3 to 11 years When: Throughout July and August How much: $1,150 to $1,700 per week Where: Central; Kowloon Tong Contact: 6273 6764; [email protected]; Who: Ages 1 to 12 years www.pitterpainterhk.com

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RockABaby’s Once Upon a Summer camp offers creative development programmes using music, art, dance and drama, where children will rap and play in a real band with a rockin’ crew. When: 2 July to 31 August Where: Sheung Wan Who: Ages 6 months to 10 years How much: From $160 per class Contact: 3586 3070; 3586 3071; [email protected]; www.rockababy.com.hk

Summer Dance Camp at Twinkle Dance Company offers weekly themed camps, including Gangnam Style, Cinderella, 12 Dancing Princesses, and more. Flexible classes are also available. When: Throughout July and August Asia Pacific Soccer Schools coach soccer skills, basics and Where: Aberdeen; Central tactics, finishing every session with a game. These sessions are Who: Ages 2 years to teens good for boys and girls of all play levels. How much: $200 per class When: Throughout July and August Contact: 6608 6689; [email protected]; Where: King’s Park; Kowloon Cricket Club; Sai Kung; Stanley Ho www.twinkledance.com Sports Centre Who: Ages 5+ years Television Take 2! by Fusion Academy teaches kids to perform How much: $350 per three-hour session. Sign up for a full-week like they see on TV, singing, dancing and acting their way course and mention Playtimes to receive a free uniform. through a fun, educational week. Contact: 2385 9677; [email protected]; www.apsoccer.hk When: 24 to 28 June; 2 to 5 July; 5 to 9 August; 12 to 16 August Where: Aberdeen; Happy Valley; Pok Fu Lam Board Riding Camp 2013 at Palm Beach offers stand-up paddle Who: Ages 4 to 16 years boarding, indo boarding, skim boarding, adventures, games, a How much: Varies by location. Contact the company for bonfire experience, plus an option to stay overnight in a teepee details. Playtimes readers receive a 5% discount. (adult accompaniment required). Contact: [email protected]; When: Throughout July and August www.fusionacademyhongkong.com Where: Cheung Sha, Lantau Who: Ages 7 to 14 years Wonders of the World by Anastassia’s Art House Ltd will take your How much: $2,100 child on a creative journey, exploring and discovering fine art Contact: 2980 4822; [email protected]; from around the globe. www.palmbeach.com.hk When: 2 July to 18 August Where: Happy Valley; Repulse Bay; Sai Kung; Stanley Brazilian Football Academy Summer Camp is for parents who Who: Ages 3 to 16 years want their kids to have fun, be part of a team, learn the rules of How much: $270 to $450. Playtimes readers receive a 5% sibling the game, and have a great experience playing soccer. discount. When: Throughout the summer months Contact: Happy Valley: 2719 5533; Repulse Bay: 2812 6465; Where: Stanley Ho Sports Centre Stanley: 2104 3303; Sai Kung: 2719 5533; Who: Ages 5 to 14 years General: [email protected]; www.arthouse-hk.com How much: Contact the company for details. Contact: 3488 7724; [email protected]; www.bfa.hk Get sporty Active Summer Yoga Camp at Yoga Kingdom teaches yoga Eco-Adventure Camps by Ark Eden include eco-art, fishing, and breathing with educational themes that promote health, sea-kayaking, picnicking, planting, island hopping, camping, focus and concentration, creativity and character. hiking, harvesting and more. When: From 15 July When: 2 July to 16 August Where: Ho Man Tin; Kowloon Tong: Mid-Levels; Wan Chai; Tai Koo Where: Lantau Island Who: Ages 3 to 12 Who: Ages 5 to 14 for day camps; ages 7 to 18 for overnight camps How much: Contact the company for details. Playtimes readers: How much: $650 to $2,250. Playtimes readers receive a 10% book by 15 June to receive a 20% discount. discount. Contact: 8348 1683; [email protected]; Contact: 6110 9293; [email protected]; www.yogakingdom.hk www.arkedenonlantau.com

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ESF Sports Camps are designed to keep kids active and entertained while developing their physical abilities, social skills and confidence in a safe and energising environment. When: 8 July to 17 August Where: Discovery Bay; Ma On Shan; Mid-Levels; Pok Fu Lam Who: Ages 3 to 10 years How much: Contact ESF for details. Contact: 2711 8007; [email protected]; www.esf.org.hk

Harry Wright International Limited Intensive Summer Camps will benefit all levels of swimmers, particularly children who are new to swimming or who are fearful of the water. When: Check their website for dates. Where: Canadian International School; Club Siena; Discovery Bay Recreation Club; West Island School Who: Ages 4 months to 12 years How much: From $460 Contact: 2575 6279; [email protected]; www.harrywright.com.hk

Kinder Kicks offers soccer-based, age-appropriate fun and Summer Sailing 2013 at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club offers games for toddlers. sailing courses for beginner to advanced youth sailors during When: Throughout July and August the week, and programmes for adults on the weekends. Where: Central; Hong Kong Cricket Club; King’s Park; Sai Kung; When: 25 June to 23 August Stanley Ho Sports Centre Where: Middle Island, Deep Water Bay Who: Ages 18 months to 4 years Who: Ages 6+ years How much: From $160 to $190 per one-hour session How much: Contact the RHKYC for details. Contact: 2385 9677; [email protected]; Contact: 2239 0395; [email protected]; www.rhkyc.org.hk www.kinderkicks.hk Surfing Adventure Camps promote personal responsibility and Little Kickers Five-Day Summer Camp provides a fun maturity in a safe, fun environment. Learn to surf off pristine introduction to sport for beginners, and allows experienced beaches with internationally qualified instructors. players to develop their skills. When: 1 July to 31 August When: 22 to 26 July; 5 to 9 August Where: Tai Long Sai Wan, Sai Kung Where: South China Athletic Association (SCAA), Causeway Bay Who: Ages 8 to 17 Who: Ages 3.5 to 7 years How much: $2,600 to $4,100 How much: $1,200 to $2,400 per week. Playtimes readers Contact: 9091 3731; [email protected]; receive a 5% discount. www.surfhongkong.com Contact: 6772 5870; [email protected]; www.littlekickers.com.hk Treasure Island Surf & Adventure Camps allow kids to learn water safety, build confidence and make new friends, while Multi-Sport runs comprehensive courses in swimming, surfing, stand-up paddling, kayaking and biking. gymnastics, trampolining, junior sports, soccer, basketball, When: 24 June to 16 August tennis, and urban golf. Where: Pui O Beach, Lantau, with daily pick-up and drop-off at When: Throughout July and August the Central Ferry Pier. Where: French International School (Primary) Who: Ages 5 to 15 years Who: Ages 3+ years How much: $3,880 to $4,200 per week How much: Contact the company for details. Contact: 2984 8710; [email protected]; Contact: 2540 1257; [email protected]; www.treasureislandhk.com www.multi-sport.com.hk Learn a language RugBees Fun in the Farm Summer Camp makes use of play- Daily Language and Social Skills for Kids from Blurton Family orientated activities, like stories, animal play, music and creative Development Centre helps your child improve their confidence equipment, to help children learn key rugby skills. in English through educational activities, plus an optional hour When: 8 July to 8 September of social skills focused on peer interaction. Where: See their website for details. When: Throughout July and August Who: Ages walking to 4 years Where: Kennedy Town How much: $1,500 for six sessions; $1,900 for nine sessions Who: Ages 3 to 5 years; 7 to 10 years Contact: 2117 3055; [email protected]; How much: $3,750 per weekly course; social skills hour: $1,250 www.rugbees.com Contact: 2869 1962; [email protected]; www.blurton-fdc.com

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Easy English for Kids Ltd (EEK) Summer Program helps kids improve their English in a fun way, incorporating cooking, science and games. When: 8 July to 30 August Where: Sai Kung Who: Ages 3 to 7 years How much: $175 per class Contact: 3487 3053; [email protected]; www.eek.com.hk Summer Activity Course in English by Wembley International Kindergarten offers a creative and fun way of learning English Jumpstart Summer Mandarin Camp provides the opportunity through drama, music, movement, arts and crafts. Additional for kids to learn Mandarin through stories, song and dance, programmes in etiquette, manners and nurturing pets are also drama and role play, arts and crafts, and other fun activities. available. When: 8 July to 16 August When: 22 July to 16 August Where: Sai Kung Where: Taikoo Shing Who: Ages 2 to 8 years Who: Ages 3 to 8 years How much: $180 per one-hour session; $350 per two-hour session How much: $3,000 to $5,200 Contact: 2791 4838; [email protected]; Contact: 2567 5454; [email protected]; www.jumpstartmlc.com kindergartenhongkong.blogspot.com

Mandarin In Action Summer Camps are intensive programmes Summer Fun at SunKids aims to spark your child’s creativity, where children learn Mandarin through hands-on activities engagement and exploration with native-speaking teachers such as arts and crafts, music, stories, and drama. Camps for who turn language learning into summer fun. older kids include short outings. When: Mandarin camp: 17 June to 23 August; bilingual camp: 8 When: 2 July to 31 August July to 23 August; art camp: 17 June to 23 August Where: Central; Discovery Bay; Sheung Wan Where: Happy Valley Who: Ages 3.5+ years Who: Ages 3 to 7 years How much: $2,250 per week. Single visits are also available. How much: $1,100 to $2,100 per week Contact: 2486 9062; 2480 3909; [email protected]; Contact: 3107 0787; [email protected]; www.sun-kids.hk www.mandarinformunchkins.com; www.mandarinforteens.com Smarty pants MSL Summer Mandarin Immersion Program teaches Chinese Around the World by Box Hill International Kindergarten & language, with a choice of arts and crafts or cooking and Pre-school provides interactive and exciting programmes for nutrition, in a focused but active learning setting. children to explore and acquire fun facts from across the globe. When: 2 July to 30 August When: 2 July to 2 August Where: Causeway Bay Where: Fo Tan; Ma On Shan; Tseung Kwan O; Wonderland Villas Who: Ages 2 to 17 years Who: Ages 6 months to 5 years How much: $2,200 to $3,900 How much: Contact the camp nearest you for details. Contact: 2523 3899; www.mslcenters.com Contact: Fo Tan: 2688 2161; [email protected]; Ma On Shan: 2750 6323; [email protected]; Tseung Kwan O: 2623 0018; Star English workshops aim to develop your child’s English skills. [email protected]; Wonderland Villas: 2151 1383: Classes are available for all levels, and lessons include phonics, [email protected]; General: www.boxhill.com.hk reading, writing, speaking, dictation, grammar, vocabulary and exam preparation. Baby Buddies Summer School at Allison’s Letterland is an When: Throughout July and August international playgroup and kindergarten. Where: Hung Hom; North Point; Olympic; Wong Tai Sin; Yau Tong When: 2 July to 31 August Who: Ages 3 to 14 years Where: Causeway Bay; Jordan; Sheung Wan How much: $550 to $5,400. Enrol in multiple classes and receive Who: Ages 3 months to 6 years a discount. How much: $300 per session. Playtimes readers receive one free Contact: 2994 5111; [email protected]; trial class. www.starenglishcentres.com Contact: 5188 0671; [email protected]; www.letter-land.com

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Blooming Buds Preschool & Child Care Centre’s summer programme aims to make every experience a learning experience for your child. Weekly blocks of bilingual activities aim to provoke their interest to investigate and learn. When: 8 July to 9 August Where: Sai Ying Pun Who: Ages 1 to 3 years How much: Contact the company for details. Contact: 2887 9921; [email protected]; www.bloomingbuds.com.hk

BrainBooster Summer Camp helps prepare your child for a successful start to the next school year, with intensive, personalised, one-on-one cognitive brain skills training. When: From the end of June through to August Where: Kowloon Delia School of Canada Summer School provides an enjoyable Who: Ages 4+ years four-week programme, where kids will explore language, How much: From $14,880. Playtimes readers receive a 20% maths, science, IT, arts, and physical education. discount on the Cognitive Skills Assessment. When: 2 to 26 July Contact: 2302 0380; [email protected]; Where: Taikoo Shing www.powerbrainrx.com Who: Ages 4 to 13 years How much: $5,300 to $5,600 Camp Kidville offers campers fun things to do and new friends Contact: 3658 0508; [email protected]; www.delia.edu.hk to meet as they visit different classrooms for varied activities, including gym, arts and crafts, music and exploration. Discovery Montessori Summer Camp is designed to develop When: From 8 July children’s personalities, creativity, concentration, critical Where: Wan Chai thinking, language and motor skills. Who: Ages 18 months to 5 years When: 2 July to 31 August How much: $1,350. Playtimes readers receive a 10% discount, Where: Causeway Bay; Central; Discovery Bay Kidville backpack and Camp Kidville t-shirt. Who: Ages 1 to 6 years Contact: 2892 8893; [email protected]; www.kidville.hk How much: $1,380 to $3,860 Contact: Causeway Bay: 3621 0010; Central: 2850 8006; Canadian International School of Hong Kong Summer Discovery Bay: 2987 1201; General: www.dms.edu.hk Programme has something for everyone and on a timetable that will suit parents’ schedules. Sport, performing arts, EQ Summer Boot Camp by Mindquest Group Limited employs Mandarin, IB and Cambridge University courses and more are age-appropriate play-based activities, including games, on offer. storytelling, role plays and art, to build the foundation for When: 17 June to 9 August cultivating emotional intelligence (EQ). Where: Aberdeen When: 1 to 12 July; 5 to 6 August Who: Ages 3 to 16 years Where: Kennedy Town How much: $3,150 to $3,850 per five-day course Who: Ages 4 to 9 years Contact: 2518 5859; [email protected]; www.cdnis.edu.hk How much: $4,000. Playtimes readers receive a 5% discount. Contact: 3552 3012; [email protected]; Children’s Technology Workshop offers four camps that help www.mindquestgroup.com kids develop creativity and thinking skills: Project Metropolis; SuperBoss Camp; Summer iCamp; and Engineering Exploration ESF Summer Camps will keep the summer exciting with diverse Workshop. See their website for details. offerings, including playgroups, Spanish, drama, debate, film When: 17 June to 31 August studies, test preparation and more. Where: Happy Valley When: 8 July to 10 August Who: Ages 3 to 14 Where: Aberdeen; Discovery Bay; Happy Valley; Kowloon Tong; How much: From $2,500 to $4,000. Playtimes readers receive a Ma On Shan; Sha Tin; Tsing Yi 10% discount. Who: Ages 15 months to 16 years Contact: 2591 0100; [email protected]; How much: From $2,100 www.ctworkshop.com.hk Contact: 2711 1280; [email protected]; www.esf.org.hk

44 Playtimes

Garden House Summer School sessions are filled with songs, play, handicrafts, art and baking. Each week ends with a celebration full of fun, games and laughter. When: 2 July to 23 August When: 17 June to 20 August Where: Clear Water Bay Where: Stanley Who: Ages 1 to 7 years Who: Ages 3 to 7 years How much: $800 to $2,400 per week How much: $200 to $330 per class. Playtimes readers receive a Contact: 2358 1177; [email protected]; www.gardenhouse.hk discount by presenting this listing. Contact: 2276 0488; [email protected]; IMS Summer Fun Program at The International Montessori School www.playtent.com.hk offers English or Mandarin learning options. Combine these half-day camps with sport, maths or literacy for a full day of fun Summer Camp at Australian International School meets the and learning. world-class education standards parents expect of AISHK. When: 2 July to 23 August Courses aim for students to develop new skills, develop Where: Tin Hau teamwork abilities, and ultimately, become global leaders Who: Ages 3 to 10 years through academic excellence. How much: From $4,500 per two-week session When: 15 to 26 July Contact: 2156 9033; [email protected]; Where: Kowloon Tong www.montessori.edu.hk Who: Ages 4 to 16 years How much: $3,000 for one week; $5,000 for two weeks LEGO Education Center’s Summer Day Camp provides fun and Contact: 2304 6078; [email protected]; creative summer-themed LEGO Education courses. www.aishk.edu.hk/ilc_summer_programs When: 18 June to 29 August Where: Central; Prince Edward Summer Camp at PIPS offers two-hour English playgroups Who: Ages 3 to 9 years and three-hour bilingual camps with fun activities like stories, How much: $600 per one-day camp; $1,680 per three-day camp cooking, music and movement, and art. Contact: Central: 2804 6883; Prince Edward: 2728 8695; When: 2 to 12 July; 15 to 26 July; 29 July to 2 August [email protected]; General: www.leas.com.hk Where: Parkview Who: Ages 1 to 6 years Morningstar Preschool and Kindergarten offers three summer How much: $2,640 per three-day playgroup; $4,400 per five- options: Nursery and Kindergarten Summer Program; Mandarin day playgroup; $4,800 for pre-nursery to kindergarten Immersion Program; and Parent & Child. Full- and half-day Contact: 2812 6023; [email protected]; www.pips.edu.hk/hk options are available. When: 2 July to 9 August Summer Superstars at Anfield International Kindergarten is Where: Pok Fu Lam based on two books: Peace at Last, with interpretation through Who: Ages 1 to 6 years dance, music and art; and Handa’s Surprise, which explores How much: From $1,450 to $3,550 per two-week block African culture. Contact: 9736 5241; [email protected]; When: 2 to19 July; 22 July to 10 August www.morningstarschools.com Where: Hung Hom; Kowloon Tong Who: Ages 32 months to 8 years PlayTent Learning Center’s summer camp includes maths, How much: $8,500 per three-week programme literacy, cooking, singing, art, science and more. Morning Contact: Hung Hom: 2766 3882l; [email protected]. classes are conducted in English and afternoon classes include Kowloon Tong: 2794 3668; [email protected]. 30 minutes of Mandarin. General: www.anfield.edu.hk

46 Playtimes

Summer Workshop Series at SPRING offers several different eight-week programmes that aim to enhance your child’s well- being and development. When: 25 June to 16 August Where: Wan Chai Who: Ages 4 to 11 years How much: $600 to $7,200 Contact: 3465 5000; [email protected]; www.spring-learning.com.hk

Test USA Summer Program includes creative writing, essay writing and IB English classes for international school students, as well as test preparation classes for students planning to attend US boarding schools and universities. When: June through to August Where: Causeway Bay Who: Ages 9+ years How much: From $400 per hour Contact: 2881 1869; [email protected]; www.test-usa.com

The Coolest Summer Ever by Tutor Time International Nursery and Kindergarten includes mixed media art, science experiments, animal adventures and culinary arts. A special Mandarin camp is also available for school-aged children in mid-July. When: 25 July to 21 August Where: All Tutor Time campuses Who: Ages 6 months to 6 years How much: Contact the school for details. Contact: 2813 2688; [email protected]; Where: Wan Chai www.tutortime.com.hk Who: Ages 2 to 12 years How much: $250 to $2,500. Enrol by 30 June to receive a 10% The YWCA English Speaking Members Department offers tons discount. of camps and courses to choose from, including Mandarin, Contact: 3996 8738; [email protected]; reading, phonics, cooking, soccer and more. www.touch2learn.com.hk When: Throughout July and August Where: Central Victoria Shanghai Academy Summer School 2013 offers four Who: Ages 1 to 9 years half-day programs: K3 to P1 Preparation Program, Primary Years How much: From $1,350 Integrated Program, VSA Technology Camp, and Summer Contact: 3476 1340; [email protected]; School Theatre Production. www.esmdywca.org.hk When: 8 to 19 July; 22 July to 2 August; 5 to 16 August Where: Aberdeen Think Write by The Kelly Yang Project is an intensive camp for Who: Ages 5 to 16, depending on the camp creative writing, critical reasoning, and public speaking, with How much: $4,300 to $5,300 innovative class themes like Kung Fu Panda Writing and Hunger Contact: 2807 0835; [email protected]; Games Writing. www.vsa.edu.hk/summer2013 When: 24 June 24 August Where: Causeway Bay Woodland Summer Fun Programme offers fun and educational Who: Ages 4 to 17 years theme-based activities, including painting, clay modelling, How much: From $400 per class. Playtimes readers receive a cooking, dancing, science experiments, storytelling and more. $100 discount (not to be combined with any other discounts). When: 2 July to 16 August Contact: 2810 4822; [email protected]; www.kellyyang.com Where: Aberdeen; Happy Valley; Mid-Levels; Pok Fu Lam; Repulse Bay; Sai Kung; Tai Tam; The Peak Touch2Learn Education Ltd offers a range of programmes, Who: Ages 1 to 7 years including crafts, imaginary travel adventures, financial education, How much: Contact the school for details. phonics, singing, cooking, etiquette, writing and more. Contact: 2559 4855; [email protected]; When: 6 July to 30 August www.woodlandschools.com

48 Playtimes

When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much he had learned in seven years.

Mark Twain

June 2013 53 Editor-in-chief Tracey Starr met with the celebrity chef during a quick stopover at the Conrad Hotel, where they discussed her latest book and the many other projects she’s currently cooking up.

PT: Thank you so much for chatting with me today. It’s always a PT: Your kids are all past the fussy-toddler stage now, and this is delight to talk with you. So many of our readers are big fans of your 27th book. Where does your inspiration come from now? yours, so it’s a real pleasure to be able to sit down with you, on AK: I think once you love cooking, it never really stops. You’re behalf of all of them, and hear your thoughts. always experimenting and trying new things. When you travel, Your new book – Quick & Easy Toddler Recipes – is your 27th. you see new ideas. And trends in cooking change. It’s very How is this one different from the others? different from how it used to be. It used to be lots of cream and AK: It’s a new series: Quick & Easy. (The next one’s going to butter, and now people cook much lighter. It’s got to be quick, be Quick & Easy Baby Purées.) So, it’s all quite simple – not too because people don’t have a lot of time. You adapt. many ingredients – something that Mum can make when she I’m doing a big book on family cooking now, which will comes home from work. And it gives you variety, because come out next year. toddlers are so difficult and fussy. There was a big survey in England that showed that mums just rotate about five or PT: That’s two additional books you’ve mentioned today while six different meals and they don’t make anything else for we’re discussing the one you’re here to launch … their children because they just give up. So the book is really AK: Well, I’m doing ten books at the moment with Sainsbury's, designed to give them inspiration for some new things to try. The the supermarket. Then my next book will be Quick & Easy Baby trouble is, if you just give your child a few things, they’ll become Purées, and then the family book. even more fussy. It’s best to try to introduce new foods when they’re young. PT: You talked about trends having changed since you started. Every time I make a new recipe, I test it on a group of I’ve read various studies linking behavioural problems in toddlers, who tell me whether they like it or not. And they’re children to foods … very honest! Children like different things to us. They can be AK: Yes, attention deficit disorder – often they give children quite conservative sometimes, and then other times they Ritalin, which is a very powerful drug. But if you control it with like exotic flavours – things from around the world. You’d be food and diet, you don’t have to give them Ritalin, which has surprised: sometimes you give children sausages, and pizza, all sorts of side effects. I think some doctors are too quick to and chicken nuggets, when actually they really like stir-fries, prescribe drugs without looking at the diet of the child. and curries, and nasi goreng, and things you wouldn’t expect They say when children are dispraxic, very often it’s them to like. They can surprise you. So, there are all different because they’re deficient in omega-3s. A lack of iron means types of meals in this book. your child won’t be able to concentrate very well. So their diets are important: what they eat for breakfast is important because PT: Your own fussy eaters inspired you to start developing it’s how they start the day. If they don’t eat a proper lunch, they recipes. Your son, I believe, is now in his 20s … won’t be able to concentrate at school. AK: He’s 24, he has a job, and he loves food! He’s very experimental, very adventurous now, but he was very difficult to PT: So when you develop your recipes, how much does that begin with. If I hadn’t had him, and he hadn’t challenged me, I come into play? How much are you thinking about that versus don’t think I’d have written my books. They [her three children] making the meals quick and easy? were all quite fussy. AK: I try to use healthy ingredients when I can. I always have my

54 Playtimes Melanie Adamson Photography

June 2013 55 Melanie Adamson Photography

eye on, Is this a good and nutritious meal for a child? Everything And, my Complete Baby & Toddler Meal Planner book has in this new book is reasonably healthy, except, perhaps, the also been translated into Chinese now. chocolate mousse – but they can have treats as well. Our app has become one of the most popular food and drink apps in England, so we’re expanding on that and PT: And how about so-called “superfoods” and “power foods”? developing an iPad version. AK: It's always a mixture of foods that’s important. Red meat is I’m also working on school meals in England now. It started a really good source of iron; salmon provides the natural fatty with Jamie Oliver, and now two guys – Henry Dimbleby and acids; vegetables – especially things like broccoli and greens – John Vincent, from the Leon restaurant group – are working are really good; you needs carrots as well; and fruits; and dairy. with the government on school meals, and I’m working with them. We’re going to do a pilot scheme in smaller schools, PT: If someone’s got a toddler or child who likes to cook, how where it’s quite difficult to have a proper dinner lady. These are can a parent encourage them? state schools, where a lot of people have free school meals. So AK: What I did with my kids was, every Friday, they would cook the budget’s quite small: it has to be £2 all in, including all the the main meal. They’d take over the cooking for the family, labour. It’s a challenge. But it will be very good. which they absolutely loved. They would choose dishes from my books, I would get the ingredients and help them with the chopping, and then they would make it. They did that from age five or six, and that’s the way they learned to cook. For little toddlers, it’s surprising what they can do: they can mix things, they can roll out dough and cut out shapes using cookie cutters, grate carrots. There’s a lot they can get involved with and it’s really good to get them interested in cooking since it’s a life skill. And they like being part of the adult world, so they enjoy it. One lucky reader will win this PT: Is there anything else you’re working on that you’d like to tell signed copy of Annabel’s us about? new book. Email playtimes@ AK: I’ve got a new range of baby purées which we’ll launch in ppp.com.hk by 30 June the UK in July. I find that baby purées don’t taste like real food, and include “Win Annabel Melanie Adamson Photography so I’ve developed my range to taste like a home-cooked meal. Karmel” in the subject line. And it’s in pouches, so it’s very convenient.

56 Playtimes

P3/Cambridge announcement June 2013

Cambridge University Press and P3 Limited announce global co-branding agreement of Mandarin Matrix™, Max and Mei and Pangu.

egular readers of Playtimes learning worldwide through its GCSE, iGCSE, MYP, IB and have probably noticed Mandarin Matrix™ platform. A-level qualifications. how often we focus on With over 200,000 students now Cambridge University Press is a Mandarin education – using Mandarin Matrix™, P3 has market-leading publisher, publishing that’sR been the case ever since our first developed the platform into one of high-quality, curriculum-based edition in 2002. We believe that an the most powerful tools to make books, software and digital resources understanding of Mandarin as second learning Mandarin fun, interactive for international, primary and language is one of the greatest gifts and educational for children. secondary schools worldwide. With that can be given to a child today. To Playtimes has been the unashamed a mission of “advancing learning, that end, P3 Limited, the publisher strongest promoter of Mandarin knowledge and research worldwide” of Playtimes, has been working with Matrix™ and we’re delighted to see and a dedication to the development schools throughout Asia for the last the programme continue to grow of resources for a changing global five years to help develop materials as the platform develops to cover educational environment, the Press that make learning Chinese more fun and accessible. P3 is very proud to announce that from June 2013 all Chinese Second Language (CSL) materials it publishes will be co-branded with Cambridge University Press to further promote Mandarin language

58 Playtimes Director of Cambridge’s International Education Business, Claudia Bickford-Smith, says the joint venture is part of a wider Chinese language strategy for Cambridge: “This co-brand agreement is an important part of our ‘Cambridge Chinese’ strategy. We hope to be able to assess where Chinese language is taking off globally with these kinds of agreements and their success will help us make future decisions on how we develop this area of the business. As China continues to rise as a force in the world, the huge and fast-growing Chinese learning market is one we are fully committed to and our goal is to make Cambridge Chinese the standard everyone aspires to.” David Tait, CEO of P3, says of this agreement: “The market response to Mandarin Matrix™ reflects the exponentially growing interest in Chinese as a second language for children, with ever more demand for learning materials in print and on-line. P3 has encountered truly global demand for its products and is delighted to be partnering with Cambridge University Press as they embark on their Cambridge Chinese strategy, making our products available to even more teachers and students.” provides educational expertise and of Mandarin teachers, university In partnership with Cambridge specialist support through research academics and advisers throughout University Press, the company and through working with key the region. P3 is especially grateful for will continue to grow, expand and authors to ensure publications meet the support the ESF and other schools strengthen Mandarin Matrix™ schools’ needs. have given whilst the programme globally, bringing high-quality P3 will be working alongside the has been rolled out – in particular, Mandarin education materials to exceptional academic and pedagogical Kennedy School, Clearwater Bay children around the world. pedigree that Cambridge University and Canadian International School Press brings to the development in Hong Kong, and United World process of new CSL resources. College in Singapore. Mandarin Matrix™ was The global branding will cover To learn more, please contact Jo developed in conjunction with the over 350 products including Max Allum at PPP Limited on 2201 9719, English Schools Foundation (ESF) and Mei (www.maxandmei.com) and or via email: [email protected]. in Hong Kong, together with a team Pangu books. Or, visit www.ppp.com.hk

二十六二十五八

About us About us About us Our identities Food and eating out Our identities 你叫什么名字? 瘦狮子，胖狮子十二生肖

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十七四十一

About us Where we are Expression and creativity Food and eating out Different cities and cultures Festivals and special events 菜园我最喜欢的国家 “ 年 ”的传说

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June 2013 59 Take the faff out of Father’s Day, writes Elle Kwan.

hristmas? Check. he finds the day a way to take stock of waiting for Dad on Father’s Day to Valentine’s Day? Check. how each is progressing and how they mark the special occasion. Look to Wedding anniversary? are getting on. “It’s also a day to take their habits as a guide. James Dixon, Check. Father’s Day … a step back and think, ‘Five kids! How dad to Jesse, who is now 18 months, Really?C It’s not that we aren’t feeling the bleep did that happen?’” he jokes. had set up a bit of a tradition of the love for our dads-in-chief, but Many dads agree that the day singing to Jesse and strumming along by the time we’ve thought of gifts has become a way to fill the coffers of on his guitar on Saturday mornings. galore for Christmas and the rest, our greetings cards companies, and are He was moved to receive an inscribed shopping lists are wiped out. Of course all for down-playing the day. Give plectrum on his first Father’s Day. A we appreciate what Dad does for the Hallmark the heave-ho and make framed picture of a “daddy first” – the family. But how do you sum all that up homemade cards, they say, and guess first time Dad held, bathed or fed the in an imaginative, evocative gift that what? Without a sock or a tie in sight, baby – also makes a great keepsake. stands out against everything else we they’ll be happy. buy? Tales of time Luckily, the fathers I talked to In the beginning That first Father’s Day is a prime for this article are a kind-hearted lot, Probably the hardest we ever try to opportunity to begin a special family and, dare I say it, seem suckers for the please Daddy is on his first daddy’s tradition. Creating a Father’s Day sentimental. Mischa Moselle is an old day. Mums tend to stress over this first photo album ensures that the happy hand at Father’s Day – with five kids, one because they want to get it “right”. event is recorded year after year, and he’s seen his fair share. Over the years Even so, most dads are happy to keep takes away some guesswork for Mum. he’s come to realise that the day is less things simple. If he has had months The first page could show his baby about what they buy him. “Really, as of little sleep, then a lie-in like the posing with a sign that reads, “Happy I descend more into the conformism old days is a gift that keeps on giving Father’s Day.” Each year, a new photo and boringness that is middle age, (especially if he repays the favour is taken and added to the book. a bottle of Scotch or a meal out come Mother’s Day.) Follow this with The day is also a great way to from the older kids, who are of legal breakfast in bed (all welcome), says continue or merge existing traditions. booze-buying age, would be nice. A dad-of-two Colin Shevloff. He vows Branding consultant Geoffrey Wu is handmade card from the younger ones best dad behaviour for the rest of the excited to celebrate his first Father’s would be even nicer,” he says. year in return. Day this year with his baby girl His children’s ages range from six But many mums feel there should Sienna, who is eight months old. “It months to 20 years, so, increasingly, be at least a sentimental something definitely feels very different and

60 Playtimes June 2013 61 special this year,” he says. While he to make a contribution, let them. Tina’s students nearly always says he’d never turn down a gift, he Younger ones can create a piece of name a tie as the top gift to give a dad, doesn’t expect his wife to agonise over artwork that Mum frames for Dad. so they make a card that, ahem, ties buying one, and says his one request This can be as simple as handprints in. To make the card, says Tina, cut a is spending time together enjoying or footprints on paper with a date. Or, tie shape from paper, decorate it, and the day. Growing up, Geoffrey have them create a portrait of Dad. stick the tie’s knot on a card. Dad lifts and his dad always ate together on Practise numbers one to five, and help up the tie’s flap to find his message for Father’s Day, at home or at a favourite them list five things they love about the day. restaurant. He says he’ll be happy their dad. Older ones could take on a Since everyone knows the way to to replicate that experience with photo project, snapping pics of Dad in Dad’s heart is through his tummy, it Sienna. Experiences don’t have to be various locations or guises, or pen a might be time to have some creative extravagant to be meaningful, he says. poem for him. fun in the kitchen. The kids can For Geoffrey, “Good food and wine Tina Leamon, who runs the get involved in designing a special are [the only] essentials.” British Studio of Art in Discovery Bay, breakfast, jazzed up with heart-shaped Since many of us in Hong Kong champions a “Be Nice to Dad Day.” toast or pancakes. They might also like live far from our own daddies, Her ten-year-old daughter makes a to help you prepare a special Father’s bringing three generations of family voucher booklet, awarding her dad Day lunch or put together a picnic together through a video call is special offers all day, which she gives lunch. Older kids can reverse roles, another nice idea. Or, if grandparents to him at a special breakfast. Vouchers treating Dad to lunch or an ice cream are close, gather for a family lunch. might include, “Make a cup of tea for bought with their pocket money. Dad,” or, “Dad watches whatever he Toddlers to tweens wants on TV for an hour.” “It’s a way Tweens to teens By the time the kids are old enough to really spoil him,” says Tina. Active dads say joint activities are a great way to celebrate. Father’s Day is a good excuse to try something Since many of us in Hong Kong live far new and get in a little bonding. For from our own daddies, bringing three something a bit different, the Hong Kong Archery Centre gives private generations of family together through a classes, and Slope Infinity, in North Point, holds snowboarding and skiing video call is another nice idea. group classes for two on its dry slopes. Even a regular activity can be given a Father’s Day twist. Paul Johnson often heads for hiking trails with his two boys, Ryan and Daniel, but he records the walk on video each Father’s Day. Kids almost too cool for school will love having an excuse to hack Dad’s computer: James Woodard got a surprise when he discovered his wallpaper had been tinkered with. “They’d set it on revolve so that every 30 seconds the screen changed,” he says of his kids, Leo and Zoe. Up flashed some “dodgy-looking” pictures of James, and then a screen with the words “We’ll always love you, Dad.” It’s amazing what kids can do with Photoshop these days.

Still got a glint As far as treats go, men still seem to adore the obvious. A nice steak never seems to fail. Neither does alcohol: make a bottle more sentimental by buying a vintage that’s meaningful. And then, of course, there’s you. Once the little’uns are all tucked up in bed, dads say there’s no sweeter way to celebrate …

June 2013 63 going

With business trips now a normal requirement for many parents, how can families keep their bonds intact? asks Elle Kwan.

his year, for the first time Separation anxiety, rebelliousness, “deficit” in a child’s emotional bank in 16 years, Lawrence Jang and self-esteem issues can all be account, so it’s important to build decided to forego Hong accredited to parental absence, but credit to store against any loss, she Kong’s Rugby Sevens. work travel is increasingly the norm in says, and that should begin before a TInstead, he was dropping four-year- Hong Kong. Experts say that effective parent leaves. old Ava at ballet, and taking her twin management is the best course of brother and baby sister to a nearby action and that there are ways to turn Ready for take-off playroom. The reason? The next what could be a negative experience Build in quality time with the children evening, he was scheduled to fly to into a positive. before a trip. Try pushing flights to a Japan, then Korea for business. Two Family therapist Cindy DeLatour Sunday night or take a red-eye flight, days later, his kids were off to visit says Lawrence’s decision to sacrifice to fit in more family time, and spend family with their mum in the UK for his own time to spend it with his kids 30 minutes eating a meal or playing Easter, and when they got back, he’d will not go unnoticed, and as they a game together – each will gain already be on another work trip. “I grow, he’ll see real benefits. “Involved one “credit.” Other credit-gaining didn’t see them for almost two weeks,” fathers have children with higher self- strategies involve talking about what he says. He might have missed the esteem and fewer behaviour problems, is planned in a child’s schedule while time spent with friends on his annual and there are ways to be involved Mum or Dad is away, maybe sitting outing to the Sevens, but on this despite your physical absence,” she with a calendar and chatting about occasion, family came first. says. Cindy views any departure as a the activities they’ll be doing. You

64 Playtimes might even begin a puzzle or Lego consistent positive experiences ahead help enable the company’s transition project that can be worked on in of a trip can help cue up a happy to this market, he flies frequently back your absence. Or, for older kids, you departure. Always cooking the same to its European base, as well as across could leave out a popcorn treat to favourite meal together, or going out the region. He tracks each trip with accompany a new movie which will be for a special snack signals that the son Max, who is eight, via a world discussed on your return. parent is leaving, but in a positive way. map that hangs in Max’s room. Just Aim for five credits for every one a few months in, Max is showing an deficit, or absence, says Cindy, and a In-flight interest in the locations his dad visits, child’s emotional bank account will be Once a parent has left on a trip, the so Tony has begun sharing a few facts full enough to leave them content and goal is to keep the connection despite about each country. He also sends loved during the absence. Then, after the distance. There are many ways photos of himself at airports or, if he you return, let your child know you are to achieve this. Parent and child can gets a rare chance, of any landmarks, available and attuned to them, she says. wear a friendship band or other token via phone, that his wife then shows It’s important that kids are aware as a reminder of each other, or you to Max. A few of those pictures have of the reasons why travel happens, can leave little notes or messages for been printed and stuck near the map. and when to expect it. They should your child to discover while you’re “In a funny way, it’s a kind of learning know that work helps a parent provide away. Tony Chang works for a large experience for both of us,” Tony says. for the family and benefits them. European investment firm that According to research, Tony Since kids thrive on habit, creating recently launched in Hong Kong. To should strive to continue to build on

June 2013 65

Get involved in your kid’s life whenever you can. Sometimes you just have to get creative.

this bond as Max gets older. Younger and gadgets are an appealing way to George Newman suggests conversation children may get upset at a parent’s keep older children engaged. Justine starters beyond the everyday. Have an leaving because it unbalances their suggests keeping world clocks visible on-going spelling competition, where need for control. Older children, on a computer or tablet, so kids know Mum or Dad provides age-appropriate though, especially boys, need to see what time it is wherever Mum or Dad words for the kids to remember, and male role models effectively handling may be. Mum or Dad, meanwhile, can kids scour different sources hunting stress and difficult situations, like check Pinterest to keep updated on for tricky words to test their parent’s being away. “Up to age nine, values their child’s interests, or they can share skills. You could also clip an article or play a strong role in a child’s life. accounts and “pins.” Gaming families fun fact for the kids from an in-flight By 11 to 13, when kids are entering might enjoy playing interactive games, magazine or newspaper, and send it puberty, boys are looking for strong keeping online journals that compare ahead. Discuss or re-read it during male models to imitate,” says Justine schedules, uploading pictures to an the call. Some parents even dial in Campbell, director of Mindquest online gallery, or using an app like for bedtime and read a favourite Group, which runs courses and WeChat to record messages that send storybook. programmes for family well-being. instantly. “Get involved in your kid’s Despite the availability of Men may feel that connecting with life whenever you can. Sometimes you technology, planning calls and their children is important while the just have to get creative,” Justine says. setting up communication needs to kids are young, but Justine says it’s Skype, Facetime and Facebook be implemented by another primary vital to persist with communication as Chat all make seeing and talking caregiver – the parent left at home boys enter their teenage years, even if possible, and doubles the benefit, will need to be on board to help a son appears to disengage. “They are says Justine, of regular voice calls. By connections to flourish. Parents should seeking connection. The key to it is dialing at dinner time and putting a keep each other in mind, too, when communication,” says Justine. tablet up at the table, Mum or Dad they walk back into the family domain. can still “dine” with their kids when Sightseeing they’re away. Lost for words? In his Ready to land The technological age has book, 101 Ways to be a Long-Distance Mum or Dad’s return is just as crucial transformed the way we keep in touch, Super Dad … or Mom, Too, author as their departure. “Plan your re-entry

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It’s important that kids are aware of the reasons why travel happens, and when to expect it.

even if Mum or Dad is halfway across town rather than halfway across the globe – especially if a child appears unsettled or troubled for no other obvious reason. When Karen Beam’s young daughter exhibited sleeplessness on nights her dad wasn’t home, Karen decided to put Facetime to good use. “She would ask me to tell him to come in and give her a kiss when he got home.” Karen did this, but soon found that Maya, who just turned five, would try and wait it out, not sleeping until her dad returned. Or, if she had fallen asleep and wasn’t aware he was back, she would wake in the middle of the night and go searching for him. “I just felt she wasn’t sleeping as well on the nights he wasn’t there,” says Karen. She hit on an idea of bringing him into the evening routine using video chat, ringing him up at the office just ahead of bedtime. Now he talks to Maya from his desk, and sometimes even walks her around to “e-meet” colleagues. Karen noticed back home. The initial contact as missed, and try not to upset their an instant improvement, with Maya you walk through the door and your rules. The parent who has been at settling quicker once the lights were child sees your face is important. Your home has taken on the responsibility turned off, and sleeping with fewer happy face, eye contact and smile all of disciplining the kids during the interruptions. “Now the only problem convey: ‘I’m happy to see you!’ and absence, and it’s unfair to play a good we have is remembering to schedule makes a huge difference, bringing a cop to their bad cop role upon your ahead and plan the call,” she says. positive feeling and warm greeting to return, or to try to appease your guilt With business trips and long add credit to the bank account,” says by being soft. Rules should remain working hours eating into family time Cindy DeLatour. consistent and intact. for so many Hongkongers, learning But the travelling parent should be Not every parent, of course, to manage the situation is crucial. sensitive to family activities that may travels. But in Hong Kong, work hours Everyone needs to rally round to make be in process. Spend a few minutes are long, and can frequently keep a sure that out of sight doesn’t mean out catching up with your partner to parent away from their brood. It’s of mind, and get creative to make sure get up to speed on anything you’ve worth using some of these methods absence makes the heart grow fonder.

June 2013 69 Finding a role in the new family unit isn’t always easy for Dad, writes Elle Kwan.

70 Playtimes June 2013 71

Socially, it tends to be mums asking for a hold of a new baby. A guy might want to give a bit of a cuddle, but his mates would laugh …

hile expectant fathers will positively impact a child’s future Despite a fleeting disappointment might be able to development. Experts like Dr Fletcher when Anya was born – when James visualise themselves urge men to get involved as early as spoke to Anya right after her birth, she chasing a toddler, possible. was dazzled by the bright lights, the Wtaking a pre-schooler out for bike unfamiliar room, and the hustle and rides or coaching kids’ football, Nine months and counting bustle, and didn’t give him quite the the thought of a newborn baby can Dad might never share the same same level of response – James felt he’d be daunting. In his book The Dad pregnancy experience as Mum, but already established a close bond. She Factor, Dr Richard Fletcher, of the there are ways to begin the bonding responded to cuddles from him, and Family Action Centre at Australia’s process ahead of the birth. Seeing an often he was the one to put her to sleep. University of Newcastle, examines the ultrasound is an ideal way to meet Almost a year later, James has a growing importance of paternal parenting. He the baby ahead of its due date, and repertoire of songs and still happily says many soon-to-be or new dads are brings the reality of an impending croons to his and Anya’s delight. vexed by their changing role. birth home to Dad. And while it’s Confusion about what’s expected common knowledge these days that The look of love is rife. It’s not that dads don’t want babies recognise their mum’s voice Dads who are fearful of the delivery to plan for a baby’s birth; it’s more from the womb, newer research shows should try to banish any doubts, they don’t know what they are babies register the lower tones of a because acting as Mum’s chief support planning for. “They expect it to be father’s voice just as much. A newborn and cheerleader during delivery time-consuming, difficult. Joy comes will immediately look for the faces to can be another way to forge family somewhere down the track,” writes match voices it has learned. closeness. According to midwife Dr Fletcher. Part of this has to do Unaware of that research, James Hulda Thorey, of Annerley, “Not with the different ways men and Reeves, dad to ten-month-old Anya, every dad will find it an incredible women are taught to behave around had heard of the close connection experience, it’s important to say, but newborns. Babies can often be foreign Mum’s voice can foster during many find going through the labour in a man’s usual world. “Socially, it pregnancy and decided he’d try the process incredibly bonding, just seeing tends to be mums asking for a hold of tactic too. “I used to sing to the baby what happens, and what a baby goes a new baby. A guy might want to give and she’d react,” he says, recalling through to be born.” a bit of a cuddle, but his mates would Anya’s knowing kicks and movement Hong Kong’s private hospitals are laugh,” he writes. in the direction of the sound. “It was mostly welcoming to dads who wish Yet, research shows that a father’s a great feeling, right from the start,” to be present. Government options connection early on is invaluable and he says. vary, but often labouring mothers stay

June 2013 73 on a shared ward until active labour, when they move to a private room and fathers are permitted to join. On quieter nights though, when rooms are not busy, hospitals might be convinced to move Mum early and have Dad join her there. Cutting the baby’s umbilical cord may be symbolic for Dad, says Hulda, but he shouldn’t be pressured into it. Cord cutting itself has not been shown to intensify bonding. Rather, spending the first few minutes holding the baby, listening to his breathing or cries, and watching him open his eyes will speed the process. Hospital delivery rooms can be busy, with staff eager to weigh, measure and wash the baby, but if you can, demand a few minutes alone together. “I remember leaving one homebirth recently, where there was no rushing around, not a lot of monitoring, just the father, sitting quietly, next to his wife, holding his baby – just quiet. It was wonderful,” says Hulda.

The hospital is an ideal place Katie McGregor speaks to three Hong Kong dads, who share their own for father and experiences and offer their best advice to dads-to-be. child to get better ave Donnelly, father of two, says, “We’d been trying to have acquainted, with our first child for a year, so, when it happened, I was very excited and went along to all the antenatal classes, planned and prepared Dad taking charge the baby’s room and did everything we could do to get ready. AndD I loved every minute of it. But I think a father has to be prepared for the while Mum rests huge change after baby arrives. You are no longer the centre of attention for and staff are your wife; suddenly there is somebody more important than you and, for a period of time, her mind is totally focused on the child. You feel outside the around to assist. circle. Keep on trying to help so that your wife can see that you are willing to be involved and you want to support her and the baby. It’s a major change Dads should aim to make the early to everyone’s life – and everyone has to try harder to manage the change. days count. The hospital is an ideal Some people may describe an involved dad as being a ‘modern man’ – as if place for father and child to get better it were something a bit faddish. But, if you are a man at all, your child’s birth acquainted, with Dad taking charge is something you should be very involved in. And be prepared, it will require while Mum rests and staff are around work, but this work brings rewards you just couldn’t imagine.” to assist. Miranda Wong has been told Brice Grant, father of two, says: “It’s very easy for a father to feel her husband is a natural with their kids. inferior after the baby arrives. It is very obvious that it’s the mother that She was somewhat surprised, since he best fulfils the baby’s needs. It’s all too easy to hand a crying baby back to was an only child and hadn’t handled the mother, but it’s important for you to keep trying. Sometimes the mother any babies before his own, but he herself loses patience as she knows that she can resolve the problem faster, but wasn’t shy to step in. “In the hospital, she must let the father try. He has the right to try. It’s important for the family he asked the nurses, ‘Can you teach me and if he isn’t an involved father, it will come back to bite later on.” As well as the right way to hold him? I’ve never providing practical support, Brice advises fathers to simply spend time with held a baby before.’ They assured him the baby. “Develop some kind of relationship with the baby: let it lie on top of he would pick it up easily,” she says. He you and get used to your smell, your shape and warmth.” obviously did.

June 2013 75

Get connected In the first few weeks at home, a new dad is often searching for his place in the family unit. With Mum often wrapped up in breastfeeding, changing and consoling the baby, some dads feel excluded. Many dads don’t realise a baby is seeking connections, says Dr Richard Fletcher. He says that, with practice, they can learn a baby’s signals just as well as mums, and they’ll reap the benefits. “When babies chuckle, dads feel good too.” Games like peekaboo are a simple way to interact with a baby, but dads might find sitting through everyday activities like watching his favourite sport on TV or answering emails whilst cradling the baby can bring surprising closeness. Assigning Dad feeding times can initiate a bond, and it can also get Dad to slow down and really explore the new addition, as well as giving Mum a break. Others dads find their place through being useful, be it changing nappies or renting a breast pump. Dad John Norris says that when a mother is breastfeeding, a father James Reeves enjoyed the quiet, can struggle to find a role. “At times it did feel like being a spare part,” he rhythmic ritual of washing baby says. The man’s role in a child’s life is different from a woman’s, but just as bottles while the household slept. important, he says. “Whether it be as a morale booster, the voice of reason, Richard Ingram, father to Josh, now or just to add consensus, you are needed because what faces you is not as two, discovered movement calmed clear cut as it looks in the books! Antenatal courses, the books, and friends’ his colicky son as a baby. He would experiences are all useful, but mean nothing until you are there with your pace the floors late at night with music baby changing that first nappy. playing until Josh slept. “Once there are smiles, movement and recognition, the whole experience changes as the interaction between you increases. The more you put in now, Let it go the more rewarding the experiences, and the more you bond. This is self- Women need to be supportive of the perpetuating, and, once they can talk, you can find your baby requesting methods men use, even if they differ ‘Daddy this’ and ‘Daddy that’! from their own, says Kathy Kitzis, “The biggest thing I have realised now that mine are three-and-a-half a doula and Calmbirth instructor, years and 15 months is that they are listening, watching, touching, and who has run discussion evenings getting used to you, even when you do not know it, and that they pick up just for fathers-to-be. Some dads are everything you do, from day one!” hesitant about their abilities to care Thank you to David Donnelly, Brice Grant and John Norris for sharing their stories for the baby, and others worry about and thoughts. And thanks to Annerley for sharing their dads with us. harming such a fragile being. New mums often find relinquishing control difficult, insisting on a “correct” way became exhausted, and one night sent on in their household since Sarah says to feed, clothe, bathe or put the baby husband Leo in to take a turn with even to this day Tayleigh, now four, still to sleep. Kathy argues these kinds of the crying baby. After rooting around likes to rub her daddy’s ear. Probably disagreements further deter dads from and finding her dad’s ear to hold on to, not something Leo ever envisioned in getting involved. “Men need to be Tayleigh soon fell to sleep. his pre-daddy days. given just the same opportunities to It was a landmark bonding As the old saying goes, it is much make mistakes and learn what works.” moment for them all. Sarah, realising easier to become a father than to be Sometimes desperation takes over. she’d been using control to suppress a one. Finding a role in the changing Sarah Clark exclusively breastfed fear of not being able to calm the baby, dynamic when a newborn enters daughter Tayleigh, and the baby handed over some of that responsibility; your family unit can sometimes be a became used to being soothed by the Leo embraced the fact that he could struggle for a new dad. But with a bit of boob. While Sarah was happy that help; and baby Tayleigh found a second perseverance and creativity, daddyhood she was able to nurture bonding, she way to fall asleep. The memory lives can soon become second nature.

June 2013 77 How do you help multicultural children identify with both parents’ cultures, especially when they are living away from both parents’ home countries? Aquin Dennison-Mathew finds out.

he pre-school that Anisha’s learn to straddle their dual heritage likely choose to focus on the cultural son attends was having a while living outside both parents’ components that have served him well “Taste of Culture” week home countries, a complexity further and helped anchor his identity. and the teachers asked compounded when they are also parentsT to confirm if children with encouraged to adopt the cultures of Language as a link multicultural backgrounds preferred their host country. For most families, language is the to be placed alongside a specific Parents of multicultural children stepping-stone to multicultural country. For some parents, this is a have to work hard at imparting a connection. “Language is key. Lose straightforward exercise, choosing smorgasbord of traditions, languages, the language and you very quickly to identify their children by their folklore, cuisines, religion, lessons forfeit access to the culture,” says “passport country”. Anisha, who is in history and politics, and passion Victoria Fouladi, who was born in Indian-American and married to a for a national sport. When it comes Tehran to an Iranian father and German, has always wanted her two to practical day-to-day parenting in an American mother and moved children to confidently articulate their a multicultural household, certain to London shortly before the 1979 multicultural heritage. So she went aspects take precedence over others. Revolution. She lived in New York and ahead and requested that her three- One parent may place a greater Tokyo before moving to Hong Kong in year-old son Kai’s picture be placed emphasis on learning a language, 2011. Victoria identifies herself as an alongside the United States, Germany while the other may focus on passing Iranian and is fluent in Farsi. She says, and India. on century-old traditions or rituals. “As I moved between cities, having Hong Kong’s diverse expat What they choose to lead with is often Farsi as a common thread helped population is made richer by a subset influenced by the parent’s upbringing. me connect with other Iranians.” of the city’s youngest residents who For example, a parent who was raised Victoria’s husband is Ethiopian, and represent a more culturally mixed as a third culture kid – having spent a her two girls, aged two and five, are group – children with parents of significant part of the developmental learning to speak both Amharic and different nationalities. These children years outside his own culture – will Farsi. Unlike in Ethiopia, the political

78 Playtimes situation in Iran gives her children plays Bollywood and Pakistani music. school in London, says, “Even limited access to travel into the At 12 months, Anaia’s first words and within the cultural subset of mixed country, making language the primary word combinations were in Urdu. race kids in my school, I connected link to their Iranian heritage. Anisha’s experience as a most with children who had similar Samar Shahreyar also feels paediatrician underscores the Middle Eastern backgrounds from strongly about raising a bilingual importance she places on exposing Israel, Iraq or Lebanon.” Samar’s child and has been speaking only children to language when their circle of friends includes a spectrum in Urdu to her nearly two-year-old minds are more receptive and of nationalities and cultural daughter Anaia. Samar is Pakistani- pliable. Anisha’s five-year-old son backgrounds. “However,” she says, American, but grew up in Greece, the Nick converses with his father in “I do find myself gravitating towards UK, Sierra Leone, Liberia and the German, which has helped them mixed South Asian families, if only to UAE before her parents moved to the develop a special bond. They are help Anaia meet other children who United Sates when she was nine. She is now supporting his German learning look and feel like her.” married to an Irishman and relocated by having a tutor work with Nick Community meet-ups are an to Hong Kong by way of Tokyo two at home. Apart from English and opportunity to hear a parent holding and a half years ago. Samar says, German, they are hopeful their conversation with another adult in “It’s not just about comprehending children will be equally conversant in a native language – a novelty for a the language. I want Anaia to be Chinese. multicultural child who does not hear able to enjoy the richness of Urdu it being spoken between her parents. poetry and literature.” Since English Community connections Victoria frequently meets up with a will be the dominant language she is As children start going to school, small community of Iranian families surrounded by socially, Samar gives establishing a sense of kinship with in Hong Kong and says, “When my Anaia as much access to Urdu at home other children who share a similar children tag along and hear Farsi, the as possible. She downloads children’s mixed background can be reassuring. language feels alive and relevant, and rhymes and stories retold in Urdu and Victoria, who attended an American it sparks an interest in my girls.”

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My hope is they may have many identities but they don’t need to pick or choose any one. Above all, what I want for them is to be proud and comfortable with who they are.

Frequent fliers Kong when her father was transferred In Anisha and Hannfried’s Frequent trips to both parents’ here. During high school in the 1980s, home, December presents the home countries is a time- (and cost-) she remembers feeling uprooted perfect opportunity to meld together intensive exercise, but one that goes and struggling to reconcile her American and German holiday the furthest towards providing an mixed race background amongst the traditions. The holiday month kicks immersive experience. In the absence predominantly British expat school off with St Nicholas Day, a popular of a significant diaspora in the host population. Learning from her own holiday in Germany where children country, trips back home are an struggles as a teenager, Lisa has tried place clean shoes outside the front opportunity for children to pick up on to ensure that her 14-year-old son feels door, hoping to find them filled local colloquialisms, cultural nuances proud of his Japanese and Indian roots with candy if they have been good. and non-verbal gestures that cannot be as well as his father’s British heritage. They follow this up with the advent gleaned from a grammar or travel book. They travel to Japan and India wreath, lighting real candles on their It’s those childhood memories regularly, sometimes visiting twice a Christmas tree and incorporating associated with the smells of a year. Her expectations from these trips traditional German dishes of fish and grandparent’s kitchen and afternoons are tempered: “It would be ambitious duck into their Christmas meal. spent frolicking with cousins that build of me to expect my son to feel like he It is Anisha’s hope that raising up a comforting cocoon of nostalgia belongs to either country. But, at best, their children with an ability to relate and draw us back “home” again as I can hope for him to see it as familiar to different cultures will, perhaps on adults. Samar and her husband Shane territory. I don’t want him to feel like some subconscious level, instil a desire Miller use up a sizeable chunk of a tourist in Japan and India, or worse, to move around and a curiosity for the their holidays to make frequent trips like an outsider looking in.” food and cultures of other lands. to Ireland and Pakistan so Anaia has As children get older, they will access to both sides of the family and Reason to celebrate eventually pick the label that they can participate in special events and National and religious holidays think best describes them. It’s difficult major holidays. Shane says, “Much provide a fun way for children to predict if a child will end up feeling of Irish identity once associated with to observe and participate in the more of an affinity to one parent’s religion and a shared sense of national traditions unique to each parent. culture or choose to acknowledge an struggle has been diluted. Travelling to In Victoria’s family, the girls get to upbringing where various cultures Ireland to meet our family and seeing celebrate New Year throughout the played a part. As Victoria puts it, “My how they live is the best way for Anaia year, with equal emphasis on all three: hope is they may have many identities to connect with her Irish ancestry.” Chinese New Year; Nowruz – the but they don’t need to pick or choose Lisa Terauchi is of mixed Persian New Year, which marks the any one. Above all, what I want for Japanese and Indian heritage, was first day of spring; and the Ethiopian them is to be proud and comfortable raised in India and moved to Hong New Year, which falls in September. with who they are.”

June 2013 81 Visual aids and apps on your smartphones, tablets and gadgets can help you handle your young child’s behaviour difficulties, writes Nic Parker.

f you’re a parent, then you’ll know how hard it can There any many different ways to support your child’s be to deal with a child who is having a tantrum behaviour, but my focus here will be the use of technology. or being difficult, especially when you are out and You’re already using smartphones, tablets and apps, and about. Difficult behaviours can arise for a number those are the same tools that can help you support your ofI reasons, the most common being age. Every child has child. There are hundreds of apps to support your child’s periods of oppositional behaviour and, in young children, behaviour, many of which are free. Even many of the paid this is often between the ages of two and three years. It’s at ones have free light versions, which allow you to try them this age when children test their power in the world: They out before paying for the full version. In some cases the begin to identify things that they want. They explore and light version might be all you need to transition through expand their boundaries, which, in turn, will test your this difficult time. limits. Combine that with their burgeoning language, So, which supports are useful? reasoning and emotional control, and your requests for actions that are contrary to their desires are likely to leave Timers you with a fight on your hands. How out of control that Most phones and tablets have timers fight gets will vary from day to day, but there are things you as part of their operating systems and can do to help. you can customise the tone at the end First, try to avert a full-on meltdown before it arises. to make their use more enticing. My son Easier said than done, I hear you say! But, it is possible. loves the Inspector Gadget theme tune that As you see the unwelcome behaviour start to escalate, ask is on his dad’s phone. As we get ready to move yourself what has changed. Did it arise when you said no? to a new task – such as dinner time, bath time Or when you asked them to do something unexpected – or bed time – I give my son a warning and we set for example, did you tell them to get ready to go out when the timer together. For example: “In one minute, it’s they thought they were staying home? Did you ask them bath time.” Or, “You have five more minutes to play.” to do something right away, which meant they couldn’t “When you hear the music it will be time to brush your finish what they had been doing? Are they tired or hungry? teeth.” As the timer is counting down, continue to remind Did you mishear your child and, as a result, do something your child that the end time is near. Since the timer on they didn’t want you to do? Do they typically struggle to your phone is obviously portable, you can use this method share? The reasons for a tantrum might be numerous, but anywhere, such as when you’re finishing up at the park. knowing what triggers the behaviour change will help you pick the right type of support. Choice boards Supports are things – like visual aids – that you use to By providing your child with choices you are giving them assist your child’s comprehension of the demands being made some power in a world where decisions are often made on them as well as provide them with a way to express their for them. If your child is given lots of opportunities to needs clearly. No matter how good you think your child’s make choices throughout their day, then they might be language and reasoning skills are, once you factor in high less likely to rebel when you need them to toe the line. emotions, their ability to use those language and reasoning Choices can be given verbally or visually. Sometimes you skills to manage their behaviour becomes limited. might have the objects you’re talking about to hold as

82 Playtimes June 2013 83

There are many visual timetable apps to choose from. Some are more customisable, and some allow users to mark when the task has finished, which many children enjoy as they can visually see the progress they are making through their day. you list the choices. For example: “Do you want to wear However, Smarty Ears offers two cheap apps: Yes/No and your red shirt (holding up the red shirt) or your blue shirt iTake Turns. These may be easier options for busy parents or (holding up blue shirt)?” However, at other times this those who feel overwhelmed by customising their own apps. won’t be possible and that’s where a choice board with pictures will be useful. A few examples of choice board Visual timetables apps are ChoiceBoard Creator by Techno Chipmunk These are useful in laying out a child’s day or particular and Bitsboard by Grasshopper Apps. These allow you to routine in a logical fashion. You can also easily show where use your own photos and add an audio clip for a more there are times that they can choose an activity they would personal experience. like to do. Having your timetables on your portable device allows you to remain flexible and make changes as you need Language providers to on the go. But, be sure to keep your child informed about When a child is already upset, it’s difficult for them to any changes you make so they are aware of what will happen express their ideas clearly. For these occasions, it can be in the future – the whole point is to limit tantrums, after all, helpful for a parent to present some pictures that their and schedule surprises, we know, often cause meltdowns. child can choose from to help express what they want or There are many visual timetable apps to choose from. what they are feeling. You could use an app like Bitsboard, Some are more customisable, and some allow users to mark where you and your child can scan through to find the best when the task has finished, which many children enjoy as flashcard. This option can be time-consuming though, they can visually see the progress they are making through if you have lots of pictures. Apps like iComm by BAPPZ their day. What’s great about using a timetable is that if allow you to organise your pictures into categories – such your child forgets what is happening you can just open the as food, toys or places – which will make it easier for your app on your phone/tablet and show them what is going child to find what they want. This app is fully customisable: to be next. Timetables are also useful for children with it takes very little time to snap pictures of the snacks your separation anxiety because you can visually show when child eats, the places they visit and the people they see Mummy/Daddy is going to leave and when they are going and then insert them into the app. The iComm app has a to return. free light version and a paid premium version. In the free As with all behaviour modification techniques, it’s version you can’t assign audio to the pictures and there are important to use them consistently and be aware that there limited categories and items per category; however, it might will still be good days and bad days as you navigate this be sufficient for your needs. turbulent time in your child’s life. Use the supports that In some cases, you might only need to provide them work for you, include your child when you develop the with a simple choice – such as yes/no or my turn/your turn supports, and be enthusiastic when you look at them with – which you can easily do on Bitsboard or ChoiceCreator. your child. They will be excited because you are excited.

June 2013 85 86 Playtimes Can we protect our little girls from growing up too fast? asks Jill Mortensen.

addy said I could start to from cautionary examples of unwieldy wear nail polish when I adolescents who were allowed to grow turn eight,” my four-year- up too fast to “What’s the big deal? It’s old daughter reported one only nail polish!” But isn’t nail polish a dayD as we were walking home from cosmetic, sold on the same counters as pre-school. Wow! I thought. That lipstick and eye make-up? And don’t was probably more than I could have we typically reserve these products for negotiated. It still sounds young, but at older girls? least he’s bought us a few more years. Why has nail polish received a Hurrah for hubby! pass at a time when retailers are facing Besides the wealth of evidence more parental pressure to stop selling that shows how toxic nail polish and other types of products to young girls? nail polish remover can be – even the Is this a sign that today’s Toddlers & organic options contain chemicals that Tiaras omnipresence is starting to are absorbed into the bloodstream wear us down, one category at a time? of little bodies via the skin and are If so, how can we give our daughters associated with cancer, organ damage, guidance that dodges the “forbidden and problems with the respiratory fruit syndrome” while staying loyal to and immune systems – I was mainly our values? relieved because I want to postpone my two daughters’ introduction to Teach your children well the all-consuming world of beauty “Being skinny, wearing nail polish consciousness for as long as possible. and make-up, and dressing a And I certainly don’t ever want either certain way tend to be associated of them to be in a position when they with being popular. Girls learn this are unknowingly displaying symbols from the media, TV and movies. that could attract sexual attention From parents, girls can learn how to before they are mature enough to present themselves in a way that will handle it. attract positive, healthy reactions,” Nail polish on toddlers is a fairly says Sophia Malliris, a psychologist recent trend. An online search on the at OT&P family medical practice topic uncovered spirited debates on in Central. “In pre-school and the parenting forums and blogs, ranging early primary school years, girls don’t

June 2013 87 yet have a sense of what they are force defined sexualisation as 1) when society by modelling the positive presenting to the outside world or how a person’s value comes only from his behaviour they want to see. And they they are being perceived, so parents or her sexual appeal or behaviour to should encourage participation in need to guide them.” the exclusion of other characteristics, extracurricular activities such as sport, According to Sophia, teaching 2) when a person is held to a standard drama, music and art to help build children to value appearance from a that equates physical attractiveness confidence and character, and praise young age can have a negative impact with being sexy, 3) when a person children for more than just being on body image and self-esteem as they is sexually objectified, rather than beautiful on the outside.” enter adolescence, which can lead to seen as a person with the capacity Sophia cautions that fathers can harmful behaviours. for independent action and decision innocently signal different priorities by complimenting a daughter’s “pretty toes” while overlooking a positive Being skinny, wearing nail polish school report or sports achievement. and make-up, and dressing a certain And in Hong Kong, we cannot forget the influence of helpers who way tend to be associated with being come from cultures where sex appeal is enthusiastically embraced and popular. Girls learn this from the cultivated from a young age. media, TV and movies. “I’ve asked helpers not to call my daughter ‘sexy’ but I think it’s not In its 2007 “Report of the making, and 4) when sexuality is seen as something negative in their Task Force on the Sexualization of inappropriately imposed upon a community,” said Amy Ng, mother of Girls”, the American Psychological person. two daughters, ages six and 17 months. Association (APA) confirmed that the “Parents need to be clear about “I’m still trying to brainwash my older sexualisation of girls decreases their their priorities and what value-system daughter by constantly repeating that self-esteem, academic performance they want to instil in their children,” it’s what’s inside that counts – being and ability to develop a healthy Sophia says. “If they want them to kind, caring, unselfish and helping sexual self-image later in life, while be confident, healthy individuals – others. I think this is finally working, increasing their risk of depression, physically and mentally – they need because she is starting to say these anxiety and eating disorders. The task to counterbalance messages from things on her own.” Carla Cisbani, mother of two- year-old Elena, is still surprised at how many “made up” toddlers she has seen since moving to Hong Kong compared to her native Italy. “Some of these girls are made up to look like teenagers,” Carla says. “The focus is on being pretty instead of other qualities. Sure, it’s tempting to decorate our little girls, but I wonder what psychological impact this is having on them. It’s too much of the princess stereotype.”

Pretty in pink? Award-winning author Peggy Orenstein largely attributes premature sexualisation in today’s society to the multi-billion-dollar Disney princess franchise. In her 2011 book, Cinderella Ate My Daughter, she suggests that the “passive, personality-free” princesses reinforce stereotypical beliefs about femininity that emphasise exterior beauty and pleasing behaviour. “What do the things we give to our girls tell us about what we are telling them? What do they say about who we think they are and who they ought to be?” she writes. There is abundant evidence that the more mainstream media that girls

June 2013 89

… teaching children to value appearance from a young age can have a negative impact on body image and self- esteem as they enter adolescence … consume, the more importance they place on being pretty and sexy. Retailers around the world are using this to their commercial advantage, despite the growing backlash from parents. Last summer in Australia, retailer Target faced an uproar after mother-of-two Ana Amini posted on the company’s Facebook page: “Dear Target, could you possibly make a range of clothing for girls 7-14 years that doesn’t make them look like tramps? You have lost me as a family background, then the impact is in completely opposite directions since customer when buying apparel for my minimal.” their early days of grown-up play. daughter as I don’t want her thinking “I used to have fun with make-up, shorts up her backside are the norm Just for make-believe nail polish, high heels and jewellery or fashionable.” Within days, that post For those who are struggling to with both daughters from when they attracted more than 60,000 “likes” enforce beauty rules, Sophia Malliris were about two,” Georgeana says. and sparked national media attention. advises parents to experiment with “The older one is now a beauty- This past April, child advocacy old-fashioned dress-up games or focused shopaholic, but the younger groups and media around the world parties that can be part of indoor one has zero interest in clothes, criticised Hollywood actress and playtime and play dates. accessories, nail polish or make-up. I mother-of-two Gwyneth Paltrow after “Let children indulge with make- don’t think any of the things I did with she introduced a new line of string up, clothes and jewellery so they can them when they were young had much bikinis for girls as young as four on her explore these within boundaries and impact. I think it all depends on the website GOOP. will understand that it’s ‘play’ and personality of the child.” “I had a real internal debate over not the real world,” Sophia says. Whatever the family rules or whether or not to let the girls wear “Drawing and painting faces or hands priorities, Sophia emphasises the bikinis last summer, but it just got so and decorating them with make-up or importance of having a united front hot!” said Cathy Chow, mother of polish also can be a constructive way among mothers, fathers, extended two daughters, ages six and eight. “I to channel interests while tapping into family and helpers to ensure that find with parenting that we’re always artistic skills. With older girls, look effective discipline and boundaries can treading this fine line between what through magazines and websites that be implemented consistently. actually makes sense versus what feature ‘before and after’ celebrity “Parents have to be the bad cops people might think. I don’t allow nail photographs to show girls what real all the time,” Sophia says. “That’s polish, make-up, or certain clothes people look like when they are not why it’s such a hard job. Aim for because I feel my girls are too young, Photoshopped.” family connectivity so that you can but I don’t judge other parents who Georgeana Fung, owner of uncover ‘teachable moments’ that allow it. I think that if parents explain Etymon Communications and lead to conversations and not battles. the context for when these things Branding, says that her two daughters, Kids will be more responsive to this are appropriate and there is a secure now aged 20 and 14 years, have gone approach.”

June 2013 91 From its modest beginnings back in 1897, Hong Kong’s Ebenezer School and Home for the Visually Impaired has grown into a lifesaver for thousands of families, writes Gillian Johnston.

hen an acquaintance described blind curriculum, rather than a specially adapted one, and piano players as “amazing”, principal of caters to both primary and secondary pupils. The related Ebenezer School Remy Wong realised how service unit, Ebenezer New Hope School, cares for visually often people focus on a person’s disability, impaired kids with multiple disabilities. Remy is quick to ratherW than their talent. After all, she says, “It is not the point out that only around 40 per cent of her pupils are impairment that makes him a good pianist, but his effort completely blind, despite the common perception that all of and talent.” the students are. Ebenezer means “stone of help” in Hebrew, and Whilst education at Ebenezer starts at P1, younger the Ebenezer School is where many of the city’s blind, children can enrol at their day care centre from the age or partially blind, students find the help and support to of three. Education goes all the way up to S3, after which become the people they were meant to be – people who will pupils can graduate to secondary. According to Remy, not be defined by their disabilities alone. students benefit from Ebenezer’s full-time dedicated teachers “in addition to the wide range of resources on Life-wide learning hand, leading to an intensive all-round training”. Besides Remy Wong worked in regular schools for many years the curriculum, students receive “rehabilitative training before taking the helm at Ebenezer in September 2012. in Braille, low vision, orientation and mobility, assistive Like any principal, Remy’s challenges include balancing technology” and more. pupils’ needs – both the 66 who study at the school full- Away from the classroom there are boarding facilities time and the more than 190 others who utilise only some to allow pupils to master rehabilitative training, where even of the school’s supports – with the available resources. The those no longer studying at Ebenezer can stay for learning administrators continually lobby the Education Bureau support and organised social activities. Remy believes that for funding, in addition to drumming up donations. kids benefit from boarding, “where their independent living Most of Ebenezer’s full-time students pay no school fees skills and social skills will get sharpened.” She encourages and nothing for aids or equipment. Visually impaired parents to let their child board in order to benefit from children require special equipment, from magnifiers and “a holistic life-wide learning”. Parents naturally want to mobility canes to Braillers and technology gear, including protect their children, and with a visually impaired child interactive whiteboards and iPads. that instinct can be even stronger. At Ebenezer, children Ebenezer differs from most of Hong Kong’s 60 other are treated normally, without being over-protected, and special needs schools because it offers the mainstream parents are coached to do the same, becoming confident

92 Playtimes that their children are learning to overcome the difficulties that the teachers instinctively know what visually impaired of living with a disability. people need, including simple thing like zooming tools and increased font sizes, and when she graduates she hopes to Skills and knowledge help others by opening a bus company and earning money to Teacher Sandy Chan has been working with visually serve the visually impaired community. impaired students since September 2012. At Ebenezer, her Like Eli, Edward Au-Yeung’s son Sam was an role involves English language teaching and low vision early-starter at Ebenezer. Aside from his educational training for pupils aged six to 18, in which she uses visual achievements, Sam built up his confidence socially with aids in conjunction with her voice and presentation skills to photography, dancing and choir (their Cantata Choir, teach the students. What’s most important, she says, is that made up of former teachers and pupils and led by a the “teachers have the skills and knowledge to teach visually dedicated music teacher, performs regularly both in and impaired students, especially subjects like maths, visual out of Ebenezer). Edward proudly reports that Sam can arts, home economics and even swimming lessons, which travel alone by public transport and loves playing the piano require more than verbal communication”. Sandy says that and bowling. Thanks to the committed teachers and staff occasionally, explaining some printed materials in words – he has “learned to love himself and others”. especially pictures and tables – can present challenges. The kids’ positive energy can be very rewarding, according to Sandy. This dedicated teacher is keen to dispel the myth that visually impaired pupils should be pitied. In Want to help? fact, her students never feel deprived, nor do they understand With funding a critical issue, Ebenezer’s volunteer programme why people feel that way about them. Sandy reckons her is a valuable resource, helping to enhance its services students develop like other kids. So similar to mainstream and giving pupils contact with the community. Volunteer kids are they that the main complaint of Ebenezer’s pupils is opportunities include recording, reading and assisting in the the same as at any other school: the food! classroom and at extracurricular activities. If you’re able to That said, Eli Lai Ming Tang, aged 13, who has been an help or keen to donate, phone 2817 0503 or 2817 6076. Ebenezer attendee from P1, lists maths and PE as her current Ebenezer School and Home for the Visually Impaired favourite subjects. Like most teenagers, Eli enjoys sport, 131 Pokfulam Road, Pok Fu Lam | 2817 0503 reading and music. What she loves most about the school www.ebenezer.org.hk. is the kindness of staff and schoolmates. She appreciates

June 2013 93 travel-writing contest finalist

94 Playtimes If you’ve got a Lego fan in your family, Asia’s first Legoland is well worth a trip, writes Brian Tang.

Does your young child: and located in the southern-most part of the Malaysian 1. Know where the little specialist Lego shops are in peninsula (and in fact the entire Asian continent), this Causeway Bay and Kennedy Town? tourism hub seeks to attract same-day tourists from 2. Surf YouTube for Ninjago episodes? Singapore, just a causeway bridge away. 3. Get excited by the prospect of visiting Lego exhibitions at From the island state, one can drive to Nusajaya in shopping centres (such as the recent ones in Taikoo, Sha less than 40 minutes via the less-heavily frequented and Tin and Times Square)? greenery-lined Tuas Causeway. We opted for the coach 4. Cite Lego sets by model number for his or her birthday service instead, which was relatively efficient and very and/or Christmas wish lists? reasonably priced. At S$20 for a return fare, it was cheaper than the cost of our taxi ride to the Singapore pick-up point. If the answer is yes for one or more of the above, However, we did have to contend with the inconvenience chances are that you may well be visiting Legoland of a border crossing, similar to bus trips to Shenzhen or Malaysia sometime soon. Dongguan, and had to get out of the bus for each of the For the uninitiated, Lego is a wonderful, ubiquitous border control posts. This may well deter some Singapore- brick construction toy that many of us grew up with. The based visitors, but at least no visa is required for entry. Danish company expanded into theme parks in 1968, In preparation for the trip, I looked at the Legoland and there are currently six Legolands around the world, Malaysia website with Zac to learn more about how the in Denmark (Billund), the United Kingdom (Windsor), park was developed and built. I tasked him with helping to Germany (Günzberg), the United States (California and plan our day by listing in his journal the attractions that he Florida) and Malaysia (Johor) – Asia’s first Legoland. would most like to see. So, when we arrived, armed with a Encouraged by discounted flights to Singapore, as well newly printed map, he led the way. as a six-year-old who answered in the affirmative to each of the above questions, my son Zac and I flew down during Unique features the first week of its opening. There are six zones to visit at Legoland and I was soon drawn to three salient features that seem to distinguish this Making plans park from many of its other theme park competitors. Situated at Nusajaya in the Iskandar special economic First, there was a noticeable – and welcome – absence of zone, which is modelled after the Pearl River Delta, licensed characters, other than the Lego toy itself. Instead,

June 2013 95 we were greeted by classic settings such as urban life in Lego City, and knights and dragons in Lego Kingdoms. Land of Adventure incorporates themes like dinosaurs and pharaohs, and Lego Technic relies on more high-tech and futuristic motifs. Second, there was a preponderance of self-propelled rides and activities which reinforced the Lego DIY ethos. While there were certainly some rides for the adrenaline junkies, such as Project X and The Dragon, teenagers are not Legoland’s primary target demographic and the older kids may well find many rides “lame”. Instead, the younger crowd would be thrilled by to pull him away from it so that we would have enough time having to (or have you help) pump their way to the top to see the rest of the park. Then again, maybe it should not of the Kid Power Towers and propel both fire engines have been that surprising – building from scratch has always and hoses in the race to put out fires at the Lego Rescue been the toy’s essential appeal. Academy. Firm favourites are the Boating School as well as the Driving School, where kids navigate their own way Choc-a-blocks around the courses. With fewer queues during our weekday The Lego Brick Shop did not seem to stock sets that could visit, Zac attended Driving School seven times, and was not be found in Hong Kong, but it did have elusive and very happy to receive his photographed Lego driver’s exclusive Lego-themed accessories, such as Lego Star Wars licence as a proud credential to show off back home. t-shirts and Ninjago swords. You can also have a photo Third, Lego instilled great creativity and whimsical taken and set on Lego bricks as a free-standing photo humour throughout the park. I don’t want to spoil any frame, as well as make your own mini-figure for purchase. surprises, but give your child a camera and play the game Food is on par for what you might expect from a theme of “find and shoot the funny Lego-made characters”. There park, and with its relatively flat terrain, it looked quite are visual gags and photo opps galore, and don’t forget to stroller-friendly for those with younger ones. And don’t take a close look at the details in Miniland, where Malaysian forget that this theme park is in the tropics: it gets hot and and regional landmarks have been painstakingly made out you should expect passing showers. Pack lots of water and of thousands of pieces of Lego. A surprising hit was Build & an umbrella. Test, which allowed you to make your own Lego cars and All in all, it was a full and tiring day. Suffice it to say, race them against other creations down a racetrack incline. with more than one Lego fan in our household, we will be This was actually Zac’s first choice of destination and I had back!

June 2013 97 sponsored feature

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98 Playtimes

We take inspiration from the 1960s and style up the classic silhouette of shirts, ties and shorts – making the boys look smart, yet casual.

Models Monty, Lucan & Tommy Words & styling Ingrid Keneally Photography Melanie Adamson

Location Club Arcadia, 2704 Universal Trade Centre, 3 Arbuthnot Road, Central Featuring a 150” HD projection screen for video games and live sports viewing, and 18 networked gaming stations, this might be the perfect venue for your next birthday party or gathering.

Monty wears pale blue and white collared shirt with white cuffs, $650, navy and red stripe tie, $680, both from Ralph Lauren; and navy and white check shorts, $350, Chickeeduck. Lucan wears white collared shirt, $700, Ralph Lauren; blue and white seersucker shorts, $750, and grey thin tie, $900, both from Bonpoint. Tommy wears pale pink and white collared shirt, $650, navy and white spot tie, $680, both from Ralph Lauren; and navy shorts, $330, Chickeeduck. June 2013 101 Tommy wears striped collared shirt, $955, grey cardigan with detail, $1,350, check shorts, $1,175, and grey thin tie, $900, all from Bonpoint. June 2013 103 Monty wears pale blue and white check gingham shirt, $550, green and white spot tie, $680, and yellow cotton shorts with green belt, $550, all from Ralph Lauren. Tommy wears green check gingham shirt, $550, blue detail bow-tie, $580, pale blue shorts and navy and green belt, $550, all from Ralph Lauren.

104 Playtimes June 2013 105 Monty wears check shirt, $550, Ralph Lauren; navy thin tie, $900, Bonpoint; with electric blue shorts, $520, La Petite Caravane. June 2013 107 Lucan wears white collared shirt, $700, blue and white seersucker shorts, $750, both from Ralph Lauren; blue cardigan with detail, $380, Chickeeduck. Monty wears white collared shirt, $330, blue check shorts, $350, and grey cotton vest, $320, all from Chickeeduck; blue patterned bow-tie, $580, Ralph Lauren.

108 Playtimes

P3, the publisher of Playtimes magazine, is looking to expand our Chinese translation department. We specialize in financial and legal translation for banks and other financial institutions, real estate companies, and multinational firms and organisations. Remuneration will be commensurate with expertise and experience, and we offer flexible working hours for the right candidate.

To apply, please email the Publications Director, Jo Allum, at [email protected]

If you would like to know more about the company and the types of projects we work on, please visit www.ppp.com.hk Ditch the Doritos and whip up some of these healthy snacks instead, with recipes from gourmet raw food chef and mum Priscilla Soligo.

Chilled Almost-Caramel Doughnut Holes Equipment needed: Food processor | Makes 18 pieces (3 cups of batter)

Ingredients goji berries until broken down and well • 1 ½ cups unsweetened desiccated combined, but with a slightly chunky coconut texture. • ¼ cup coconut butter • Add in hemp seeds and goji berries and • 5 soft Medjool dates, pitted pulse until slightly broken down. • 3 Tbsp coconut oil • Line a tray or plate with parchment • 2 Tbsp almond butter (or walnut butter, (baking) paper. Roll batter into 18 balls, or your favourite nut butter) each about 1 ½ inches in diameter. • 1 Tbsp mesquite powder Place onto parchment paper to prevent • 2 tsp vanilla extract them from sticking. • ¼ tsp high mineral raw salt • Place tray/plate of doughnut holes into • ½ cup hemp seeds the freezer to set up for 15 to 20 minutes; • ¼ cup goji berries or place them in the refrigerator for 45 minutes to an hour. Method • Remove and enjoy! • In a food processor, process all • Doughnut holes store well in an airtight ingredients except hemp seeds and container for up to three weeks.

June 2013 111

Apple Pot Pie Crumble Equipment needed: Food processor Makes 2 servings

Ingredients For the apple filling: • 2 cups apple, chopped • 1 tsp lemon juice • 1 tsp vanilla extract • ½ tsp ground cinnamon • 1 Tbsp liquid sweetener (such as low GI coconut nectar) • 2 Tbsp almond butter • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg • Pinch high mineral raw salt

For the crumble: • ½ cup walnuts • ¼ cup macadamia nuts • 1 ½ Tbsp coconut palm sugar • Pinch high mineral raw salt

Method • To make the apple filling: In a food processor, process all of the filling ingredients until well combined but still slightly chunky. Divide the mixture between two bowls or recycled jam jars. • To make the crumble: In a dry food processor, process all of the crumble ingredients using the pulse button to allow a slightly chunky consistency. Top each bowl or jar of apple filling with the crumble. • If you’d like, you can garnish each dish with an apple slice. • Apple Pot Pie Crumble stores well for up to two days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

To learn more about Chef Priscilla and Rawthentic’s recipes and classes, click www.rawthenticfood.com. Shopping for all things raw? Visit the online store at www.rawthenticfoodstore.com. Chef Priscilla and her son Luca photo by Kate Baumgartner@LotusBlu

June 2013 113 subscription form

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The Peak -Shenzhen - One ifc • Baby Impact Training Centre • The Harbour School Macau • Quest Study Skills • bbcare.hk • The International Montessori School • The International School Macau • Rainbow Creative Arts • BOM City • The Peak Pre-School • School of Nations - Central • Brain Impact Training Centre • Victoria (Belcher) Kindergarten • Rosarini • Brain & Mind Education Centre • Woodland Montessori Clubs • R-kids • CECES Child Development Centre (CCDC) - Mid-Levels • Aberdeen Marina Club • Sense of Touch • Cosmos Bookstore • Woodland Pre-School • American Country Club • Simply Love • Donau Musik - The Peak • Discovery Bay Residents Club • Simply Little • DreaMory Island South • Gold Coast Yacht & Country Club • SPOT Physio • Dymocks • Apple & Pie • Hebe Haven Yacht Club • Sunny View Education • Early Learning Centre • ESF Kennedy School • Hong Kong Country Club • The Body Buddies - Mega Box • Hong Kong Academy • Hong Kong Cricket Club • ThreeSixty • Edible Arrangements • Hong Kong PIPS International • Hong Kong Football Club - Landmark • Fables AZ • Kellett School • Hong Lok Yuen Country Club • Tiny Footprints • I Love Kitchen • Modern Montessori International • Kowloon Cricket Club • Tinytots Soccer and Ole Soccer School Gym - K11 • Montessori for Children • Ladies Recreation Club • TOGS Unlimited - Mega Box • Morningstar School • Pacific Club • The Flying Pan - TST • Southside Kindergarten • Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club • Uncle Russ • Indigo • Sunshine House International • The Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club - Pier 3 - Ocean Terminal - Chi Fu • The HK Jockey Club – various locations • Veritas Medical Practice • Kids Channel - Pok Fu Lam Road • United Services Recreation Club • Wellcome • Kids’ Gallery - Tai Tam - Seymour Terrace - Kowloon Tong • The International Montessori School Real Estate & Relocation Companies - Watford Road • Life Studio • Woodland Pre-Schools • Allied Pickfords • YWCA • Luk Chan Chinese International Education - Beachside • AGS Four Winds • White Lotus Centre Corporation - Harbourside • Brookfield Relocation Hong Kong Limited • Wise Concepts • Metro Books - Montessori – Tai Tam • Colliers International Island South - Elements - Montessori – Repulse Bay • Compass Real Estate • Anastassia’s Arthouse • MI Kids - Pok Fu Lam • Crown Relocation Services • Baby Central • Mother and Child Ltd - TreeHouse • Executive Homes • BIVA Stanley Plaza shop • Mothercare Island East • Habitat Property • Bumps to Babes - Mega Box • ESF Quarry Bay School • Home Solutions – Mui Wo - Horizon Plaza • Nomura International • Future Leaders Academy • Hong Kong Sotheby’s • Camper • Olympian City Phase 2 • HKPPA Heng Fa Cheun Playgroups • Jones Lang La Salle • Club Bel-Air • One Music Centre • Hong Kong Treble Choir • Landscope Real Estate Services • Flex • People Impact Training Centre • Kiangsu & Chekiang Primary School • Paragon Relocation Company • Fusion Academy - Tsuen Wan • Play & Learn Education Centre • Proway Limited • Hong Kong Parkview - Hung Hom Admiralty/Wanchai • Santa Fe Transport International • Indigo • Rainbow Creative Arts • JEMS • Sallmanns Residential Limited - Horizon Plaza - Kowloon • Starters School Macau - Cyberport - Kowloon Tong Causeway Bay/Happy Valley • Cuppa Coffee – Bakery & Coffee House - Repulse Bay • The Park Resort • Alison’s Letterland • Hotel Royal Macau • Elite Personal Training • Three Sixty • Baby Buddies • Learn with Me • Jennifier Debow - Elements - Tin Hau • Lord Stow’s Uni Cafe • Kokoon • Play International Ltd • Bambino English Playschool • Macau Child Development Association - Horizon Plaza • Toys R Us • Children’s Work International Ltd • Macau Golf & Country Club • Mirth Ltd • Wxy-shop • ESF Glenealy School • Mandarin Oriental Macau • Southside Family Health Centre New Territories • Island Children’s Montessori • Qube @ The Venetian • The Retreat • Anastassia’s Art House • Senate House Education • Rocks Hotel • Tree • Bloom Baby • Shichida Hong Kong • Spa Philosophy - Horizon Plaza • Booklodge • Starlit Learning Centre • The Landmark • Wellcome - Tsuen Wan • Sun Kids • The Venetian - Redhill Plaza • Chatter Box • The International Montessori School - Repulse Bay - Tai Po - Tin Hau - The Westwood - Fanling • Touch to Learn Island East • Cordlife • Victoria Educational Organisation • Jaycow • Cru Bar & Grill • Wembley International Kindergarten • Kiddy Village - Sai Kung • Woodland Pre-School • Mindshare • Cryolife - Happy Valley • PapaMamaBabies • Dymocks Tsim Sha Tsui/Kowloon • People Impact Training Centre - Sai Kung • American International School - North Point • Flexa • Baby Buddies • QQ Club - Home Square Sha Tin - Kowloon

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stockists

BONPOINT Unit G26, Citygate Outlets, 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island 2109 4717 Shop 325, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central 2526 9969 Shop 104B, 1/F Block A, DB Plaza, Discovery Bay 2987 8494 G/F S18 and 1/F S22, Gold Coast Piazza, Tuen Mun 2940 2986 /2940 2988 BOOKLODGE | www.booklodge.com No 7 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung 2791 9110 BUMPS TO BABES | www.bumpstobabes.com FISHPOND | www.fishpond.com.hk Unit 2114-18, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau 2552 5000 5/F, Pedder Building, 12 Pedder Street, Central 2522 7112 ITSIMAGICAL | www.itsimagical.hk Unit G29-G34 G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui 2375 6020 CHICKEEDUCK | www.chickeeduck.com Shop 209, 2/F, 311 Gloucester Road, Windsor House, Causeway Bay 2808 1773 Shop 275-276, 2/F, Citygate, Tung Chung 2109 2932 Harvey Nichols, Level 1, Pacific Place, Admiralty 3968 2566 Tuen Mun Town Plaza 2191C, Tuen Mun 2451 8038 Shop 21, Level 1, Discovery Park, Tsuen Wan 2940 0660 LA PETITE CARAVANE | www.lapetitecaravane.com New Town Plaza, Phase 3, Shop A173 & A177, Level 1, Sha Tin 2697 9207 307 Yu Yuet La Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central 9136 8990 Shop 3005-3006, Sunshine City, Ma On Shan, Sha Tin 2430 2197 PADDYFIELD | www.paddyfield.com Shop 257B, Level 2, East Point City, Tseung Kwan O 2628 7839 Shop B43, Site 11, Treasure World, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom 2356 7943 RALPH LAUREN CHILDRENSWEAR Festival Walk, Shop 232, L2, Kowloon Tong 2265 7822 Shop 210-212, Lee Gardens II, 2-28 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay 2577 9011 Shop 408, Telford Plaza 2, Kowloon Bay 2997 2285 Shop OTG13, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui 2735 1388 MegaBox, Shop 7 & 8, Level 9, Kowloon Bay 2359 0082 Shop 426-327, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central 2973 6822 Shop 12 & 14, EMAX, Kowloon Bay 2525 7885 SHOPINHK | www.shopinhk.com Shop 358, Level 3, Grand Century Place, Mong Kok 2390 5536 Shop UG 02, Olympian City 3, Kowloon 2711 4719 TINY FOOTPRINTS | www.tinyfootprints.com Shop OTG031, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui 2736 6273 10/F, 1 Duddell Street, Central 2522 2466 Shop 107, 1/F, Infinitus Plaza, Sheung Wan 2542 2029 TOYS“R”US | www.toysrus.com.hk 6/F, Jumbo Sogo Department Store, Causeway Bay 2833 4568 3/F, Citiplaza, Taikoo Shing 2569 2388 13/F, One Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay 2501 0069 Man Yee Building, 67 Queen’s Road Central, Central 2259 9166 Shop 231, 2/F Cityplaza, Quarry Bay 2569 2062 7/F, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay 2881 1728 DYMOCKS Shop 23, 2/F, Aberdeen Centre, Site 2, Aberdeen 2518 7128 HOK80, Airport Express Level, Hong Kong Station, Central 2147 3588 Shop OTG23, Ocean Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui 2730 9462 Shop A, G/F Oriental Crystal Commercial Building, 2851 8030 Shop G01, Olympian City 3, West Kowloon 2884 3268 46 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central Level 1 of Commercial Centre, Discovery Park, Tsuen Wan 2940 1968 Shop 3002-3005, Level 3, ifc mall, Central 2117 0360 Tuen Mun Towne Plaza, Phase 2, Shop 2196, Tuen Mun 2430 0268 65 Bonham Road, G/F Shop B Smiling Court, Sheung Wan 2559 9880 New Town Plaza III, Shop A198-A199, Level 1, Sha Tin 2605 2225 Shop 22, 2/F The Peak Galleria, The Peak 2849 8782 Festival Walk, Shop L2-02, 80 Tatchee Avenue, Kowloon Tong 2265 7933 Shops 105-113, 1/F Harbour Centre, 25 Harbour Road, Wan Chai 2511 8080 MegaBox, Units 2 & 5, Level 8, Kowloon Bay 2629 5186 Shop 307-309, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai 3527 3560 Shop B24A-B33, Site 11, Whampoa Garden, Hung Hom 2356 2688 Shop G107 C-D, The Repulse Bay, 109 Repulse Bay Road, Repulse Bay 2803 1628 Metro City Plaza 2, Tseung Kwan O, Kowloon 3194 6399

Editorial Deadline: 5 June Booking Deadline: 13 June Artwork Deadline: 14 June

Summer in the city See Hong Kong in a fresh, new way Surf’s up! Put all of this water to good (fun!) use Swim fans Help your little ones build confidence in the pool Hey, good lookin’! Yes, you! Give your body image issues a break Read all about it Get lost in a good book this summer

For more information or to book advertising space, please email [email protected].

120 Playtimes June 2013 121 122 Playtimes June 2013 123 124 Playtimes Want to reach over 50,000 affluent parents in Hong Kong? Contact the Playtimes advertising team to find out how. email:[email protected]

June 2013 125 If you’re good with words and people, P3, the publishing company behind Playtimes magazine, would love to hear from you. We are recruiting across all of our departments, and are particularly looking for strong sales and marketing assets. All roles are based at our Cyberport office, can be part- or full-time, and we also offer flexible hours in our family-friendly working environment.

P3’s financial and contract publishing department is looking for:

• Editors • Project Managers • Graphic Designers

The editing and design roles can be freelance, and all roles can be part-time with flexible hours. So if your spelling, grammar and punctuation are fab, and you have a great eye for design and detail, please send your CV over.

Love the mag? Join the team!

Playtimes is looking to expand its advertising sales team. Full-time, part-time or working from home, if you have a sales or marketing background and would like to bring Playtimes to more people, and more people to Playtimes, please get in touch.

Mandarin Matrix™ is a suite of educational products designed to help teachers teach Chinese as a foreign language to children from P1 upwards. With a huge range of print products, and a fantastic online classroom, we are looking to boost our sales and marketing team to help us help teachers help millions of children worldwide learn Chinese. Our ideal candidates will have some experience of teaching or learning Chinese as a second language, be competent in Mandarin, and have strong sales/marketing backgrounds and experience – preferably in educational products. The positions can be part-time or full-time, and are based at our Cyberport offices, although there may be some overseas travel.

For more information on any of the roles above, or to submit an application, please contact Jo Allum, Publications Director at [email protected]

Personal data will be treated in the strictest confidence and will only be used for recruitment purposes. www.ppp.com.hk | www.primarymandarin.com

Super Dad! Being a dad gives us superpowers – you learn tolerance to an astonishing degree, writes father- of-three Nury Vittachi.

ore and more adults are choosing not to room to the bedrooms and the toilets. When my wife, a have children. This will “reshape human teacher, got home, she saw why I was worried. Granny and society”, according to social demographers the child were world-class sleepers: I’m talking Olympic- in the UK. I guess they mean “reshape” as gold level. The child can sleep 16 hours straight and inM “wipe out”. Granny, 20. But before that happens, something scarier will Bereft of beds, toilets and showers, we spent hours happen. There will be a pandemic of meltdowns. trying to break in. We tried every key in the house, and then You see, having totally helpless dependents (children, hairpins, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches and our teeth. We grandparents, pets and some husbands) causes the adult tried kicking the door down like in TV cop shows. We threw male’s capacity to tolerate problems to expand until it our bodies at the door like in Hollywood movies. We used a is roughly the size of Australia or Donald Trump’s ego, battering ram like in Viking cartoons. Nothing worked. whichever is larger. We spent the night on the sofa in our working clothes Case in point: A childless, only-child, unmarried friend dreaming of toilets. At dawn we awoke to the ghastly of mine received the wrong lunch order. Apoplectic with prospect of going to work in our dishevelled, unwashed state. fury, this non-dad was unable to work for the rest of the day. Then my wife had an idea. Educators have a secret The same afternoon, the father-of-three next to him weapon called the Teacher Voice. It’s not exactly a shout, was informed by telephone that one child had smashed the nor a shriek, but a sort of controlled, powerful missile of TV and another had poured Ribena into his new Blu-ray low-frequency sound. Could it penetrate several layers disc player. This news washed over him with no visible of doors, the roar of air-conditioners and the cocoon of effects. He was a dad. That sort of thing happens every day. Olympic-level sleep? I was sceptical. She took a deep breath and emitted the child’s name in You see, having totally Teacher Voice. In return, silence. She did it a second time. Was that a slight sound we heard? She did it a third time. helpless dependents (children, Click. The door opened and the cute face of a sleepy child looked out. The previous night’s trials were immediately grandparents, pets and some forgotten. husbands) causes the adult Tonight, one of the kids will probably microwave my phone. Tomorrow, the dog will eat my wallet. The next male’s capacity to tolerate day, Granny will burn the house down. Am I bothered? No, it’s all part of the rich tapestry of events that make up problems to expand until it is that joyful thing called family life. I can survive anything. roughly the size of Australia Even getting the wrong lunch order. I can do anything. I or Donald Trump’s ego … am strong. I am invincible. I am a dad.

The discussion reminded me of the night I kissed two helpless dependents (Granny and a child) goodnight and took a third (the dog) out for a walk. I returned to find that the first two had gone to sleep Nury Vittachi writes a regular humour column at after accidentally locking the door that connects the living www.mrjam.org.

128 Playtimes