BANGKOK MOTHERS & BABIES INTERNATIONAL, A PROJECT OF CHILDBIRTH AND BREASTFEEDING FOUNDATION THAILAND March 2016
Why Kids Need Some Risky Play
An Island Getaway www.bambiweb.org
Crafty Kids - Bubble Wrap
March 2016 Boot Stomp
March 2016
CONTENTS
Welcome to BAMBI 5 Chairwoman's Letter Banghkok Mothers & Babies International 6 Editor’s Corner 8 Contributor Profiles “Support and Features friendship through 20 Oh Baby...Get into Yoga with Your Little Yogi the common bond of Departments motherhood” 6 Kute Kids: Active Kute Kids Mel Habanananda 15 Crafty Kids: Bubble Wrap Boot Stomp 18 Maternal Musings: Parenting an Active Toddler 22 Guy Talk: Unguided Intercontinental Missiles 25 Travel: An Island Getaway 28 Why Kids Need Some Risky Play 30 Trends: “Pak Plod Sarn Pid” Means Organic: The Why, What, and Where of Bangkokians Going Organic We are a group offering support and 32 Health: Does My Child Have Autism? companionship to each other through the early years of parenting. 35 WOMBLES Face of the Month: Sandra Jensen Landi 38 Recipe: Balls of Energy We offer prenatal and postnatal support, Thai Feature: Weighty Issues regular playgroups, fundraising for charities 39 and more. If you wish to join, come to our 42 Bumps & Babies: Pain Management in Labour…Ditching the Drugs New Members’ Coffee Morning or any 34 Committee Member Profile: Gloria Pino other regular BAMBI activity. To volunteer to serve on the committee, contact any of the committee members listed in this Playgroups & Event Photos magazine. 10 LaLaLa Music Party photos 12 Nana Playgroup photos
BAMBI is a project of the Childbirth & 13 BAMBI 2016 New Year Party photos Breastfeeding Foundation of Thailand (CBFT).
Mission Statement References The CBFT is a non-profit networking and resource center BAMBI Cot & Car Seat Hire dedicated to ensuring the best possible start in life for our 48 babies. 35 WOMBLES Invitation We believe that this can best be achieved through: 44 Annual General Meeting Announcement n Encouraging the appropriate use of technology and 48 Birthdays medication for all births. n Promoting breastfeeding for every mother and baby in 48 BAMBI New Members the community. n Providing information and training to health 48 BAMBI Cot & Car Seat Hire professionals involved in maternity care. 49 BAMBI Buddies n Supporting parents through the pregnancy, birth and postnatal period. 50 Member Benefits
For more information on CBFT, contact: 56 Support Groups English speaking, Tel 05-310-4573; [email protected] 52 Playgroup and Activity Listings Thai speaking, Mobile: 081-776-9391; [email protected] or [email protected]. Or 56 Support Groups visit: www.cbfthai.org and www.facebook.com/pages/ BAMBI Committee ChildbirthBreastfeeding-Foundation-of-Thailand 59
Cover Photographer: Ebonny Blakey Follow BAMBI on Cover subjects: Melanie, Tim, Emma & Sophie Stainlay Facebook: facebook.com/BAMBIBangkok Tiny Tigers Playgroup at Bangkok Patana School Now Roaring for Longer!
Due to popular demand, Tiny Tigers playgroup is now available five days a week!
Run by our specialist Early Years teachers, offering access to our wonderful Foundation Stage environment and learning, Tiny Tigers welcomes accompanied children between one and three years of age.
For more information and to join the fun, please email us at [email protected] or call on 02 785 2205 .
Monday to Friday 8.00am until 10.30am
Bangkok Patana School 643 Lasalle Road (Sukhumvit 105) BTS station: Bangna or Bearing www.patana.ac.th [email protected]
chairwoman's letter Dear Members,
On 8th March the world marks International We are especially looking for a Women's Day, to raise awareness on Chairwoman, Secretary, Treasurer, and women/gender topics and celebrate Website Coordinator. Please consider womanhood. In some countries it is a real volunteering! celebration and considered a national Oholiday, not less important than Thanksgiving We will have the first Yard Sale for 2016 or Independence Day. Please take the this month on 5th March at what has opportunity to celebrate YOUR day. You become our Yard Sales home – St. Andrews deserve it! International School at Sukhumvit 71. I wish Tini – our new Yard Sales Coordinator – It is not a coincidence that another important good luck on her first event!!! Please show event falls on March – the women's month: your support by SHOPPING! BAMBI's Annual General Meeting, or AGM (31 March). BAMBI was started in 1982 My mother-in-law just left after her Bangkok by a group of seven new mums, and it holiday trip, my cousin is expected to My thanks this month to Angelique & Yuka grew, thanks to many other mums and replace her in the guestroom, and afterwards who are stepping down from the BAMBI expecting mums who joined the group and probably my parents would like to book their Pattaya team. Thank you ladies so much helped to run its activities. Although now annual visit, and after them I guess we'll for what you've done in Pattaya for our among BAMBI members there are also have more guests coming and going, as we members and for your community. dads, still the majority of members and are so used to. Luckily more and more new volunteers are women. At the BAMBI AGM places and attractions are being opened all The Pattaya team welcomes new volunteers: we'll elect a new committee to lead the the time, so it is still interesting to host and Sally Nash, Rani Gulati and Amanda BAMBI group. Luckily, some of the current take guests to new places. After eight years Stewart. Good luck to you and thank you committee members are willing to stay in here, you would have thought I would have for stepping up! their positions, but we are still looking for covered it all, but keeping up to date, there new candidates to fill some positions, so are still new spots to explore, new markets Happy International Women's Day! please go to pages 44 and 45 and have to visit and a few places I haven't traveled to a look at the list of committee positions. It is for a long time and worth another visit. It is a great way to contribute to your community going to be busy here! and at the same time enjoy doing something meaningful, showcase your talent and skills, *Please do recommend to other members and engage with other wonderful parents if you have visited a nice place/ attraction who make BAMBI happen. – our BAMBI News readers would love to Ravit El-Bachar Daniel hear about that. [email protected]
BAMBIママ・パパの投稿、募集中！
BAMBI Newsでは、随時メンバーの投稿を募集してます！ タイで子育て中の外国人に役立つ情報、オススメスポッ トやレシピの紹介、ここでの妊娠・出産・子育ての体験 談や悩みなどなど、好きな内容の記事大歓迎。投稿は日 本語でもOK、編集側で翻訳させていただきます。５月号 のテーマは「夏の旅行 Summer Travel」（テーマに沿わ ない内容でも大丈夫）、締切りは4月1日です。興味があ る方、いつでも内藤（[email protected]）へ気軽 にご相談ください！
BAMBI News always welcomes articles by members, on subjects such as useful info for expat parents, Need photo recommended places, recipes, and experiences and thoughts on pregnancy, birth, and child raising in Thailand. For Japanese members, articles can be submitted in Japanese and the editorial team will translate it into English. Theme for May is ‘Summer Travel’ (other articles also welcome) and deadline is 1st of April. Those interested feel free to contact the Editor ([email protected]), or for Japanese, Ema ([email protected]), at any time!
www.bambiweb.org • 5 editor’s corner Dear Readers,
Welcome to the March issue of BAMBI News. This month our focus is on being active! I have been working from abroad due to a tragic passing of a dear family member. As I sit here in Africa I want to remind all of you that life is short and we must make the most of every day. There is a saying that resonates strongly with me this month that I would like to Wshare with you; ‘Today’s special moments become tomorrow’s wonderful memories.’ So I would encourage all of you to get out there and get active with your little one and create Photo by Warren James Photography meaningful memories which will last a lifetime!
In this issue we have some interesting articles on active children - ‘Parenting an active child’ written by Michelle Hewitson will make a lot of you smile and nod, as I did. ‘Why Kids Need Some Risky Play’ written by Dominic Proctor is a wonderful piece on the importance of free play.
In addition we have some articles we hope you find informative and helpful. An article on ‘Pain Management in Labour…Ditching the Drugs’ written by Emma McHugh, and ‘Does My Child Have Autism?’, written by Nanthakorn Eu-ahsunthornwattana, MD.
I would like to thank our assistant editors; Ema, Saara, Rika, Louisa and Jinae for once again doing such an amazing job and working tirelessly to meet deadlines.
To all the writers who volunteer their time and enrich BAMBI News with such great articles, THANK YOU!
Please let me know if you would like to contribute to the Magazine, feel free to email me at [email protected]. We would really like to hear from you!
Enjoy making meaningful memories this March!
Roslyn Uys Editor BAMBI News
Mia Ferre Hiaya Kabir Active Kute Kids! Upcoming themes for Kute Kids: April - Kute Kids Wear Sunglasses Kalyana May - Travelling Kute Kids Send us your Kute Kid photos to: [email protected]
Chiharu Joseph Drouin-Keith Hiyo Boong Bunika
6 • March 2016 contributor profiles
Sherri (Minh) Lowe is a 200 Hour E- Jean Harvey, a native of Chicago, Dominic Proctor coordinates the Learn- RYT Yoga teacher and co-founder of worked for 10 years as a financial ing Support department at Bangkok In- Yogatique Bangkok. She is a fifty-one advisor before giving it up eight ternational Preparatory & Secondary year old Canadian transplant living in years ago when she moved with her School (Bangkok Prep). He is English Bangkok. When she is not on her yoga husband to Bangkok from New York. and has 17 years’ experience working mat, she enjoys cycling, trying new Since then she has volunteered at the as a teacher of students with addition- vegan recipes, a cold beer, lingering National Museum Bangkok and had al needs. For five of those years he has in coffee shops, and exploring Bang- her son, Arthur, in May of 2010. She worked in an Inclusive School for SpLD kok. When not pursuing these activi- likes to play tennis, read and write in (Specific Learning Difficulties). Domi- ties, she is writing about them. her spare time. nic holds a Bachelor of Arts with hon- ours and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Furthermore he also holds ATS status and he is registered with the Dyslexia Guild as an Approved Teach- er for SpLD (Specific Learning Difficul- ties). He holds a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education (Leeds University, Donna Dias Manuel is a seasoned Ema Naito-Bhakdi is learning to be a UK), a Post Graduate Certificate in marketing professional, blogger, stay-at-home mom of 3 and, despite Literacy and Dyslexia (York University, passionate traveller and mother to the expert help from the family's UK), an Exam Access qualification and an energetic fifteen month old, with beloved 'Wundernanny', finds it a CELTA certificate (Cambridge, UK). a new-found love for cooking. She more challenging than her work as Dominic has had valuable and has a Masters degree in Business consultant to several international personal experience with additional Administration from Deakin University, organizations. She sings in choirs and needs as his son is diagnosed with a Australia. Having worked with India's as a soloist to keep her sanity. Speech and Language Impairment. In second largest newspaper Hindustan ブログも書いてます☆（不定期的だけ addition, Dominic is qualified to de- Times for four years, she provided ど＾＾；） liver Dyslexia Actions’ Literacy Multi- creative intelligence by co-creating http://emanate28jpn.blogspot.com Sensory Package. He is qualified and marketing campaigns that went on to experienced in using various achieve- win international and local awards. ment, attainment and diagnostic stan- You can take a sneak peek into her dardised assessments to help build life by visiting her recently started blog up a profile of the young persons' http://diasmanuelblog.blogspot.com/ strengths and weaknesses. He sup- ports students throughout the full age range, from Foundation years to Year Nanthakorn Eu-ahsunthornwattana, M.D. 12-13 in the Sixth Form. specializes in Pediatrics – Develop- mental and Behavioral. She carries diplomate Thai board of pediatrics, Thai sub-board of Developmental and Francesca Ferrero is a stay at home mom Behavioral Pediatrics. She also carries of two beautiful girls Anastasia and Master of Science in Developmental Scarlett. She worked as an Early Child- Cognitive Neuroscience from Univer- hood Educator back home in Canada sity of Durham, UK. She is currently and enjoy keeping her girls busy with working at Samitivej Children’s Hospi- arts and crafts. tal (Sukhumvit Campus).
8 • March 2016
LaLaLa Music Party Words by Maryline Rimpa Photos by Azusa Uchida
The new Bang Na Play group had its New Year celebration on the 18th January with a fabulous mu- sical group called ‘LaLaLa’ led by Akiko & her team. As the playgroup started only two weeks before, we were expecting not more than 10 to 15 families, but ended up with 25 families and around 50 kids! The group sang different popular rhymes and played with many different musi- cal instruments. They let kids borrow instruments and play with them. The kids just loved it when they played with the band. There were some other activities and the finishing touch was the most attractive part where every- one sang “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” standing under a colorful cloth shade. It was so interactive, lively and all the kids as well as the parents enjoyed it so much!
10 • March 2016
NANA Playgroup
Words by Karen Benat Photos by Azusa Uchida
The BAMBI Nana Playgroup is a fun, friendly group held every Tuesday afternoon from 3-5pm in the Storytime Pre-school, Soi Sama Harn, Sukhumvit soi 4. Please come along for playtime in the relaxed garden and playroom and our fan- tastic new leader with lead some singing and do a simple craft will the kids.
For children from 0 to five years old.
Enjoy everyone!
12 • March 2016 feature
BAMBI 2016 New Year Party
Words by: Akiko Takahashi Photos by: Azusa Uchida
BAMBI 2016 New Year party was held at Singapore International School of Bangkok (SISB), Ekkamai Campus on Saturday 23rd January. We were blessed with sunny weather in a lovely outdoor environment. The event theme was “New Year around the world” – Lots of colourful activities and entertainment kept little ones busy. The main showcase of the event was the Chinese Lion Dance with Acrobat show – Some children were a bit apprehensive of the noise of the drum at first, but they started to clap their hands as the show went on with their amazing performances. Kindergarten students of SISB performed a Thai dance in traditional costumes as well as western style which was colourful and entertaining.
We would like to thank our sponsors – SISB for providing the venue, Bumrungrad Hospital, Samitivej Hospital, Let’s Asia, Xcite Golf, Flow House for arranging exciting entertainment for children throughout the event and Deli-Q Food Truck for providing delicious food on site. The event was wrapped up with a Lucky Draw consisting of 25 exciting prizes. One lucky Grand prize winner has won a Sunday brunch at Le Meridien Suvarnabhumi Golf Resort & Spa. BAMBI wishes you all a Happy Year in 2016!
www.bambiweb.org • 13 Let Asia
First step
14 • March 2016 crafty kids Bubble Wrap Boot Stomp Words and photos by Francesca Ferrero Tubtim
Keep your active child/ren busy with this fun foot stomping activity!
Since I have two very active daughters, I'm always searching for fun and active ideas to keep them entertained. Bubble wrap boot stomp helps children develop their gross motor skills by practicing jumping, skip- ping, taking large and small steps, etc.—the possibilities are endless. SNot only does it help with these skills but it is also a good way to start a conversation about colours, allowing children to learn how colours mix to create new shades as well as just basic colour recognition.
Materials needed:
Long sheet of paper (I used the roll available at IKEA)
Washable paints (B2S)
Bubble wrap (post office or stationary shop)
Tape
Instructions: 1. Lay your paper down on the floor and attach with tape. You can make it as long or short as you wish. 2. Create a boot shape around your child's foot with the bubble wrap, and tape securely so it doesn't feel loose. 3. Place a few blobs of paint on the paper. I started with two colours but you may put as many as you want. 4. Let your child start walking through the paint to create patterns. After my daughter had a feel for it, I asked her to try jumping, skipping and hopping, which she enjoyed a lot. If your child really likes danc- ing, you could always try turning some music on and letting him/her dance!
www.bambiweb.org • 15
musings Parenting an Toddler Words and photo by Michelle Hewitson Active Do you have an active toddler? Michelle Hewitson wel- comes you to the club and shares some ways she makes it through the day with her cherished ball of energy, before ending with a well-deserved glass of wine.
Do you have a toddler who has a Fear be constantly on the move and check- Of Missing Out (FOMO)? Is your tod- ing out what everyone else is doing. dler’s FOMO syndrome causing you For that, I suppose I should be thankful grief when you need some time to chill because chasing a kid around 24/7 is Dout and said toddler plainly refuses to probably far more harrowing than being allow you that time and space because, asked a million SAME questions a day. you know, toddlers never do what we In public or at a friend’s place, the say? Are you constantly on the lookout perfect little angel (I am allowed to say for fellow mummy friends so you can that – I am her mother) shines. She tries join forces in watching that little ball of to play with her friends, co-operates, energy bounce from wall to wall? Have is helpful, communicates properly with you been Googling “How to parent an them and shares the toys available. We are working on sitting patiently active child”, “My child is hyperactive” Along the way home, I might have acci- with arms folded instead of clamour- and “Nearest wine bar to my home”? dentally swapped her with the soul of a ing all over me during meal time. parrot and the cheekiness of a monkey. She has to sit and keep her arms Congratulations. Join the ranks. You Who knows what happened but I prom- to herself and ask politely for extra are not alone. ise you that’s true. food after finishing her meal. Parenting an active child is an exhaust- When it comes to parenting active ing and challenging journey. Most days, children, I like to read articles that can it involves constant face-palm (my fore- help me see from the viewpoint of a means – TROUBLE! Well, that is if they head is permanently dented, I kid you toddler. Despite having a full range of are not having a nap. In order to not lose not), hair-pulling, nerve-wracking mo- vocabulary and a good ability to com- my mind within the first hour of being ments and checking the nearest clock to municate her thoughts, my toddler still, awoken rudely by a toddler who does see if bedtime is near. If your fridge is and will, struggle to articulate why she not understand the concept of “lying in” stashed with alcohol to calm your nerves refuses to do what she is told. It is easy on a weekend, I try to stay ahead of the down at the end of a harried day, you for me to brush her off as being stubborn game by planning DIY activities at home are on the right track. but what if she is just misunderstood by with her. Pinterest is a great source of in- Now, here’s the shocker: many of me because I have unrealistic expecta- spiration. Plus, if you are not already on my friends consider my 28-monther a tions of her? it, Creative Play in BKK Facebook group pretty placid toddler but I beg to differ. One author I rely on heavily is Janet has plenty of activities done and shared Perhaps it is the age difference. After all, Lansbury. Not only has she penned sev- by our very own BKK parents, with re- being nearly thirty years older than my eral books on respectful and mindful par- sources that can be readily bought in kid, I lack the energy to be as hyper as enting, she also has a Facebook page Bangkok! she is on a constant basis. Our energy which I follow. Her advice on toddlers’ It is indeed exhausting to be with a levels are so mismatched at times that her active development is useful. Lansbury child whose energy levels never seem general placid behaviour can seem very offers an incredible insight into your tod- to wane as the day passes. It is equally overwhelming for me. Why can’t my tod- dler’s mind and the way it works. She tiring to be constantly thinking of activi- dler sit down calmly with me, have a also encourages parents to develop re- ties to entertain your child when all you cup of milk (coffee for me, white with spectful parenting styles, where we learn want to do is to curl up in a dark corner sugar, thank you) and read some books to acknowledge our child’s feelings. Reit- of the room and sleep (or breathe, or without narrating my every breath?! erating their emotions back to my daugh- cry, or hide…). I empathize and I am “Mummy, are you breathing? Mum- ter allows her to know that I am present on your side. But when that angel-turned- my, what’s that on your face? Mummy, in her distress. She acknowledges par- monster falls asleep, all I can think of is can you move? OH MUMMY, YOU ents in our frustration when we lose our that incredible love I feel inside for this MOVED! Well done, mummy! Mummy, cool with our children and affirms that tiny human being, despite having gone you need the toilet?” we are normal. through a difficult day with her. I tell my- All that in one breath. Gee, child. Raising an active child means you self tomorrow will be a better day. Can I have five minutes without an audi- have to constantly be on your toes (and When the day is done, pour yourself ence? eyes) to watch out for them. Out of sight a glass of wine. Leave the husband to In contrast to most actual active chil- is not out of mind, especially when out of do the cleaning up while you put your dren I have ever met, my daughter’s sight means silence. We all know what feet up and rest. You deserve it. Tell your FOMO does not stem from her need to silence in a house with children really husband I said so. 18 • March 2016 www.bambiweb.org • 19 Oh Baby... Get into Yoga with Your Little Yogi Words by Sherri (Minh) Lowe Photos by Warren (Max) Lowe Practicing yoga with your baby is a great way to heal and get your body back into shape after pregnancy and labor. It is also a great opportunity to bond with your new little yogi. Here is a simple Mommy-and-Me yoga sequence for new moms.
It is never too early to introduce your baby and your family as well. a few minutes. Notice if you feel dis- baby to a yoga practice. The benefits tracted and call yourself back to the of early childhood movement on growth One thing all experts agree on: before moment. and development are widely document- beginning a yoga program, it is impor- Ied. Interactive physical contact and ac- tant to get clearance from your health tivity with a loving adult helps to foster practitioner following the birth. Women trust and introduces the basis of healthy who have had cesarean births or sepa- relationships, with one’s self and with rated abdominal muscles (diastasis rec- others. Early focused interaction also ti) may find they need more time before helps to ease a young child’s nervous resuming exercise. Some poses may ag- system while bolstering immunity, cir- gravate a healing perineum and should culation, and physical growth. Parents be avoided or modified; this can some- and caregivers benefit from the physical times be addressed by using a folded movement, stress reduction and bond- blanket in seated poses to relieve pres- Downdog kisses ing that are explored through yoga sure on the perineum and put weight on Downward Dog Kisses: With your movement and meditative exercises. the sitting bones. Finally, high levels of little yogi laying underneath you, the joint-loosening hormone relaxin are keeping the Downward Dog shape Postnatal yoga (“Mommy-and-Me” yoga) still present in the body; this makes you and strength in your core and legs, is styled to suit both the experienced more “flexible”, so some poses should inhale, bend your elbows wide and practitioner as well as the new yogi. be adopted with care. come down to give your baby a kiss. Spending time on your mat with your Work not to come forward of your baby can serve as an avenue for “get- Our beautiful yogis for the following wrists, try to keep the angle of your ting back in shape,” but also comple- Mom-and-Baby sequence are Sharyne body. As you exhale and return back ments your new life as a mom: you may Lazaroo, a proud stay-at-home-mom, to Downward Dog Pose, use the con- find that your anxiety is reduced, you are and her little yogi, Jessica. traction of your inner belly and pelvic more centered, and, the true harmony floor, along with strong legs, to pull Meditation: of it all, you’re bonding with your child, Meditation does not need you back to starting point. Repeat both physically and spiritually. to be complicated. Take a few moments these yogi kisses on your little one up to center and ground yourself while you to ten times. During a typical 40-week gestation, a hold your baby. This can transform woman's hormones skyrocket to high stress, allow feelings to release and levels of estrogen and progesterone. provide support through the ups and Knee Plank Push-up Kisses: This pose Then once the baby is born, those downs of everyday life.Choosing to begins on your hands and knees, hormones drop back to normal with- relax ourselves is different from forcing with your stomach drawn in, a neutral in three to five days. That very quick relaxation (which clearly doesn’t work). table top position. Slide your knees fall can cause a lot of emotional ups Grounding meditation can help us learn back a few inches on the mat and and downs for new mothers, as they how to relax through intense parenting tuck tuck your toes under. Inhale, and change the way your brain chemi- experiences such as your baby crying, then exhale while bending the el- cals work. The fluctuation in emotions allowing you as a parent to offer a com- bows, keeping them tucked in toward is completely normal. Yoga can help passionate space for your baby and for your sides, and slowly lower yourself new mothers through the emotional roll- you to release stress. closer to your baby until you are close ercoaster of those first months at home enough to kiss their nose or forehead. with baby. Begin to notice what it feels like to Inhale to press yourself back up. Re- breathe. Feel your breath entering your peat 5-10 times. This pose helps de- I share this simple truth for all new moms: body, flowing through your lungs and velop core strength and will also work take care of yourself and you help your your body. Exhale and repeat for even your triceps. 20 • March 2016 Row Your Boat
Row, Row Your Boat: Sit on the floor with your legs bent in front of you with Mama Goddess your baby on your lap facing you. While holding your baby, slowly lift your feet until your legs are parallel to the floor. Hold here and breathe. If your baby Mama Goddess: Holding your is secure, you can try letting go and extending your arms alongside your legs. baby tight, step your feet to a mod- Try holding the pose for 10-20 seconds. Great for building abdominal strength est straddle and gently turn your and relieving stress! feet slightly outward. Contract your pelvic floor (especially for new moms) and keep your low back long and neutral. Exhale bend your knees and contract your pelvic floor upward coming into Goddess Pose; inhale and return back to a straight-leg position. Be excited and animated with your little yogi; this will help keep them interested and connected. If your little yogi is a bit older, use simple words like down and up, beginning teaching them directions. Repeat this dynamic movement up to ten times, welcom- ing the heat and openness into your Savasana hips, inner thighs and core. Savasana: For this final pose, lie on your back. Place your little yogi on their belly, resting on you. Let go of your breath, let go of your thoughts, and relax. Enjoy the connection that you both will share. Take the time to listen and feel the beat of your hearts and the rise and fall of your shared breath. Ideally, stay here for up to 10 minutes; it’s OK to fall asleep.
Above all, please be compassionate Hop Along Yogi: Practice bracing with your body. Be sure to support your your core and using your pelvic floor baby’s head if needed, and to mod- with your baby as a weight load. ify dynamic poses to be as gentle as Begin by bouncing your little one se- needed. Don’t push yourself too hard. curely on your shins holding on to their Do what feels good and remember to hands or body ensuring a secure hold, breathe. depending on their age and ability to sit up unaided. Keep your torso steady No need for the dads to be left out; this and make sure your legs are moving, sequence will work just as well for them. not your pelvis as you bounce. Repeat this as many times as you can handle. Most importantly, remember that some days it is going to be just about the baby! You’ve got to go with the flow when it comes to babies. Just like life, there are going to be some days when nothing goes as planned. Baby Yogi
www.bambiweb.org • 21 guy talk Unguided Intercontinental Missiles
Words and photos by Downtown Dad
The best option for burning a child’s unlimited energy is constructive guidance and direction. Resistance is futile. Growing children have ever-increasing amounts of energy. Channelling it into appropriate activities can relieve the stress parents face with active kids indoors, when outdoor activities are limited.
Last month the world was very much interested in a rogue rocket Llaunch in North Asia. Meanwhile at home, we were watching our 10-month-old daughter crawl around, intent on dismantling her brothers' Lego creations and taste- testing every item within reach. The brothers were swinging off the backs of our armchairs and practicing being the least invisible and most noisy ninjas possible. (Writing BAMBI articles at home with kids is a little like trying to read quantum physics in the middle of a traffic island in a hail storm...) Here now are the heightened physical and vocal activity at home, our kids and world leaders with vast energy resources namely: and destructive tendencies, with very little time for doing - The Breakfast Show (anytime before school) something quiet, stationary and constructive. - The Twilight Zone (5-7pm daily) - Weekend Warriors (Saturday and/or Sunday, most Careful not to ignore the immense benefits of free play likely at your best friend's child-free house and with a or to deny our three children the freedom of independent priceless artwork) discovery, we have always tied some meaning to their indoor antics. This is largely my fault. In my career, finding What do these times all have in common? Well, they all a solution is always easier if a motive for the cause is first precede very well known and almost certain fixed daily established. We watch them for a few moments to see events, i.e., having to do some non-negotiable activity what character, sport, story or occupation they are trying stipulated by parents. For example, having to eat breakfast, to recreate or act out. Then we join in and imitate it, only in having to get dressed, having to sit down and eat dinner, a safer version and with a little finesse. If it is a particularly possibly with non-family adults, going to bed by a certain destructive or dangerous activity, we show them some of time, waiting until arrival at a park, holiday, or event before the softer and socially-acceptable characteristics of that the boredom will cease, etc. etc. activity, role model or device. Here are our simple solutions to pre-empt disruptive activity This stops them in their tracks and we are either told we are at these times and replace idleness and/or boisterous doing it wrong or they want to know why we are doing it activity with more positive behaviour: that way. Once everyone is busy questioning each other, light bulbs start going on and everyone starts looking for The Breakfast Show something else to do. Mornings are rarely coordinated as our three kids wake at different times, and so one might be eating breakfast while Let's look at the key times most parents experience another is asleep and the remaining one is in bathroom. 22 • March 2016 Come school time, someone QUICK FIX. Water and Earth. If is fed and dressed already so children are in contact with clean starts building the Great Wall of soil or water in late afternoon and China with Lego, while younger early evening, this really does Olympic hopeful is somersaulting have a calming affect. Of course, on the sofa in his underwear you cannot always be watching and socks, while baby girl very the kids make mud pies and vocally announces to distant prepare dinner at the same time. continent that her diaper needs to Nor can you supervise children in be changed. the bath and be in the kitchen at same time. QUICK FIX. Take the largest kids’ book you can find and sit If it is an indoor day, then early cross-legged beside the front bath time with a lot of splashing door with your back to everyone and spilling is better than nothing. and start reading aloud. Once This will release a lot of energy and you gradually have everyone's set the scene for quieter activities attention and they come sit while food is being prepared. The down by you, start assigning focus is not on washing, but having remaining morning tasks to fun in a mini-water park. individual children in-between pages and break reading while Several years ago, knowing the they complete their tasks. Calms monsoon would soon mean many everyone down and gets the indoor afternoons, we built a sand “business time” message out pit on our balcony and surrounded there loud and clear. it with potted plants. Each day, 5pm was sand pit time and ad hoc The Twilight Zone gardening, so they could at least With early evening meal get their hands dirty. preparation and whether you want to call it the 'The Witching Hour' or 'The Hour Weekend Warriors between Dog and Wolf', sundown is not always the Saturday and Sunday often present parents a daunting task happiest two hours of the day. There are so many reasons of having to fill 48 hours with a three-ring circus. From a very why both children and adults are restless at this twilight early age, inner city kids see people sweeping and cleaning time and it is advisable to be outdoors walking, biking or so both our sons received a nice pint-sized traditional Thai playing in park. Nevertheless, weather, transport or lack of palm reed broom from a road-side stall on the highway supervision might prevent the kids from being outside. If so, when they each turned three. Their grandfather thought it welcome to Cirque du Sofa!!!!!! was genius, as sweeping the home also helps kids to be careful not to drop food on the floor. Now they are helping Daddy every weekend with odd jobs, like fixing bikes and sorting books. Manual paper shredding is also fun as they can pretend it is snow and make a mess that is easily tidied. Since their school introduced banking days, they tie their light chores with discretionary (not fixed) pocket money kept in a money box until bank day at school.
QUICK FIX. When the weekend warriors start up and your home and sanity are at risk, organize a pizza factory on your biggest table and get them to separate all the ingredients into little bowls first, before placing on pizza bases, etc. This is a fun messy activity with a great, though not necessarily pretty, result.
We also have push-up competitions when the park is rained out. In fact, both boys now understand the concept of exercising for health. Before any plane flights, we always have our sons do a couple of laps around the waiting lounge and mix it up with crab walking, walking backwards and frog jumps to get rid of that excess energy before a long haul. You can also try this at home in advance on the weekend; it has all the added benefits of regular exercise.
www.bambiweb.org • 23 24 • March 2016 travel
An Island Getaway Words and photos by Donna Dias
Koh Chang is a popular island getaway from Bangkok. Donna talks about her family trip including Airbnb, impromptu kayaking, Rasta cafes, and a shooting range.
The last two months have been Day 1 exhilarating with several family members On arrival, we were welcomed by our visiting us. While one bunch wanted hostess - she handed over the house to step out and enjoy Bangkok’s warm keys along with some useful pointers: Tweather, the others wanted to stay ferry timings, restaurant contacts for indoors. After considering several home delivery, distance to the nearest options, we unanimously voted that Ko convenience store and so on. Chang was the best three-day break for all of us. During the house tour, my eyes fell upon the bright yellow kayak parked on the Ko Chang is Thailand’s third largest beach; I didn't see any life-jackets, island and is situated on the eastern though. I cannot swim in the open sea, seaboard of the Gulf. It’s a five-hour drive but I certainly did not want to miss an away from Bangkok, followed by a forty- opportunity to kayak in these blue five (approximate) minute ferry ride to the waters. So later that evening, I set aside island. While the island doesn’t have going by my first-time experience, I do my fears and went kayaking: it was an an airport, the nearest one is on the Trat know I am going to have many more. exhilarating experience. The rowing mainland. I would recommend driving to Our sea-facing villa looked exactly made us very tired, hence, we stayed the island; it’s an opportunity to create like the pictures we saw online; I was in that night. memories with the family. The drive gave happy to check the first box off. Baan us leeway to step out and stretch a little Talay is a private community on the east Our fridge was stocked with beers we bit, which made travelling with a toddler coast of the island and has a mixture of carried along with us from Bangkok. much easier. private houses and holiday villas. We Alcohol and a game of Charades go intentionally chose to stay on the east hand-in-hand. We indulged in both. By While the island does have quite a few coast away from the tourist hustle and the end of the night, we were afraid the resorts and hotels, we chose to book a bustle. Unlike the fine white sand that is pandemonium we created might have villa in Baan Talay through Airbnb. I have found on the west coast, the east coast woken up the neighbors. My little girl never used the Airbnb service before, but has red sand. slept through the commotion, though. www.bambiweb.org • 25 Day 2 My husband had a special surprise activity planned. He had researched the island and found a rifle shooting range not very far from our villa. He had always wanted to try his hand out at the sport and was overjoyed to find an open-air range. Initially, I agreed to partner with him for a couple of rounds. We left our little girl with my mother and took off to Baan Look Chang Shooting Range. The instructor was an officer of the Royal Thai Navy. They had a long range of weapons ranging from the Glock 17 to cowboy guns and snipers. Two people are allowed to split the number of cartridges they want to fire; this way, one can try a variety of rifles. The sheer Day 3 variety made me dizzy. As my husband The plan was to drive around the island began to fill out his form, I changed my and check out the much-talked-about mind. My husband was overjoyed with Lonely Beach and White Sand Beach. his performance; he couldn’t stop raving There were several Rasta cafes and bars about his experience with his friends. around the Lonely Beach area; it was truly a backpackers’ haven. My husband is a big reggae music fan and was thrilled to see its influence on an island like Ko Chang. As we drove around, we noticed there were very few stand-alone restaurants and pubs as opposed to other popular island destinations. Most of the restaurants were part of larger resorts and hotels.
Later that day we visited the Klong Prao loves the pool – she is not very fond of waterfalls. We were expecting to see the seawater yet; she isn’t a big fan of a full-flow waterfall; I must say we were sand in her feet. let down, but, to be fair, the monsoon clouds deserted Thailand this year. The Before we knew it, it was time to check afternoon sun had sapped us of our out. We left a little early as we wanted energy and we were only too happy to to stop and shop at the local markets. get back to the villa and jump into the My sister picked up a few handmade cool pool water. My daughter simply clay decorative pieces for her home and some souvenirs for her friends. The drive back home was quiet and peaceful; we were relaxed and contented.
My daughter is too little to remember this trip, but my mother holds it close to her heart, as it was her first holiday together with her granddaughter.
Useful Tips Ferry Timings: 6:00am – 7:30pm, departs every 45 minutes Ferry Ticket Cost: ฿80 per person, plus ฿80 per vehicle (one way) Baan Look Chang Shooting Range: Price starts at ฿1,500; website: https:// www.facebook.com/pages/Baan-Look- Chang-Shooting -Range/329697920456902
26 • March 2016 DID YOU KNOW?
All BAMBI members are entitled to post clas- sifieds advertisements for free on the BAMBI Website.
Do you want to get rid of your used children's items? Do you want to sell your home appli- ances or other homeware? Are you looking for baby equipment? Are you looking for a domestic helper or want to recommend one?
Go to www.bambiweb.org to the classifieds section to view current ads: http://www. bambiweb.org/en/classified-advertise- ments-en or Login with your membership details to post a new classified for free (check Rules here: http://www.bambiweb.org/en/clas- sified-advertisements-en/rules).
Classifieds section online is open to mem- bers and non-members. Non-members are required to donate a minimum of THB500 to post a Classified advertisement. Donations help support our Charity projects.
For more details go to www.bambiweb.org or email [email protected]
BAMBI Cot & Car Seat Hire
BAMBI has 2 travel cots (pack and plays), 1 infant car seat and 4 toddler car seats available for rent. The rental fee for each item is ฿100 per day or ฿500 per week with a deposit of ฿2,000. All proceeds go to BAMBI Charities. For more details contact: Azusa Uchida [email protected] Cell: 093-116-8347
www.bambiweb.org • 27 feature Why Kids Need Some Risky Play
Words by Dominic Proctor Photos by Azusa Uchida Parents are constantly evaluating activities and potential risks to their children. But going too far in eliminating risks may come at a cost: it may be depriving children from the opportunity to develop the quality psychologists now reckon most important of all – resilience.
As moms and dads we are constantly evaluating activities and their risk to our children. Perhaps it was goes some- thing like: ‘If I my child jumps over this puddle, will he slip and hurt himself…?’ Or ‘If I let my child climb this tree, will Athey fall out and damage himself…?’ Or perhaps: ‘If I let my child go with the other kids beyond the normal boundaries decreed, will I regret it…?’
All real children’s play involves an element of risk, and the more real play children are allowed, the better they be- come at analysing and managing those risks. If, on the oth- er hand, adults try to eliminate risk from their lives they’re likely to grow up either unduly reckless or hopelessly timid. Many lessons learned are through sometimes bitter experi- ence, such as learning that nettle stings can be soothed with dock leaves. collaborate, and (when necessary) avoid enemies. It’s also where we acquire commonsense understanding of the It’s in play that we learn social skills – how to make friends, world – we learn about gravity when we fall out of a tree; sort out disputes, get along in a group, agree on rules, about friction when we roll down a hill; about material sci- ence when we mix a mud pie. And we develop physical coordination and control through play, so we can sit in a classroom and listen when the teacher converts these les- sons into scientific knowledge.
Perhaps most important of all, free outdoor play is where we acquire the emotional skills to see us through the rest of our lives. The self-confidence that grows from solving our own problems. The self-esteem that swells when, having feared you’re lost, you still find the way home (just ask our students in Year Seven who went on the residential trip a few weeks ago, how they feel now having learned orienteering skills and led their team home). Or when you see blood globules forming on a grazed knee but still hobble back to safety.
These experiences develop the quality psychologists now reckon most important of all – resilience. The capacity to bounce back from adversity, to learn from mistakes and build on failure. So, even if that forty-fifth batch of petal perfume smells ghastly, or the den collapses, or the go-kart falls apart leaving you battered and bruised, there’s always another day...
I am not advocating to allow our children to roam utterly free, but just a little more freedom like when we were kids and played Cowboys and Indians might not be a bad thing. 28 • March 2016 +HOSLQJ\RXU child UHDFKWKHLU AMBITION
1/2 - Regent
VPDOOFODVVVL]HVHQDEOLQJLQGLYLGXDODWWHQWLRQ KLJKO\TXDOLÀHGQDWLYH(QJOLVKVSHDNLQJVWD VDIHDQGFDULQJHQYLURQPHQW WRGGOHUSURJUDPPHIURPPRQWKVROG
Tel: 02 957 5777 [email protected] www.regents.ac.th
www.bambiweb.org • 29 trends
“Pak Plod Sarn Pid” Means Organic: The Why, What, and Where of Bangkokians Going Organic
By Jean Harvey
One hazard of living in Thailand comes from the high amount of pesticides that is com- monly used in growing produce. Jean Harvey gives us the low-down on why going organic may be a good idea and where to find organic produce in Bangkok.
Why go organic? them to speak out. Thai-PAN’s testing of oranges, guava, Between 1961 and 2003 the amount of chemical fertilizer apple, Chinese broccoli, basil, parsley, peas, chillis, used in Thailand increased 94 times. The yield of rice and strawberries, and watermelons in 2012 found Carbofuran, maize stayed virtually the same (Greenpeace SeaAsia Chlopyrifos, EPN, and Methidathion, some showing Report 2008). More recently, the Thai Office of Agricultural levels up to 202 times higher than the European limits Economics and Regulation reported that, from 2000-2010 (The Nation, Editorial; Sept 28, 2012). In August of 2014, Thailand has experienced a four-fold increase in pesticide Thai-PAN and the Foundation for Consumers found that use. Furthermore, according to US National Library of “87.5% of sampled products with the ‘Q-MARK’ logo were Medicine, NIH article entitled “Agricultural Pesticide contaminated with some pesticides and 62.5% failed to Management in Thailand: Situation and Population Health pass the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) for safety. Even Risk” March 2012, “About one third of the pesticides though these ‘Q-Marked’ items stand for ‘quality’ and imported into Thailand in 2010 were either WHO class can fetch a price tag from leading supermarket chains Ia (extremely hazardous), Ib (highly hazardous), or II for as much as 200% more in cost, they contained more (moderately hazardous). Surveys done from 2007-2014 pesticides than the open-air market’s produce.” (Bangkok have continually shown that even the few extremely Post, Editorial; Aug 23, 2014) dangerous banned pesticides were readily available and still widely used in crop production. Unfortunately, Thailand What does it means to us, the consumers? has very liberal laws on what can be used compared to the The effect on consumers ingesting toxic chemicals USA and EU and is ineffective at regulation, testing, and on fruit and vegetables ranges from: nervous system control of chemical use.” defects (ADD to Parkinson's disease) to sexual organ function and development problems, and to In August of 2014 the Thai Pesticide Alert Network (Thai- cancer (associations have been found with: leukemia, PAN) and the Foundation for Consumers, who have lymphoma, brain, kidney, breast, prostate, pancreas, conducted independent testing on Thai produce through liver, lung, and skin cancers). Due to physiological and a Switzerland-based SGS laboratory for almost a decade, behavioral differences, pesticide-related exposures and brought their frightening findings to the Thai National health effects among children are different, and often Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards worse than exposures among adults.” (Arch Environ (ACFS) but were met with a “passive reaction” that lead Contam Toxicol. Oct 2009) 30 • March 2016 trends Where can we turn? One way to find superior products is to educate yourself online by following on Facebook: The Urban Green Scene, BKK Greenie, Bangkok Healthy Living, Paleo Robbie and the Thailand Pesticide Alert Network to keep up-to-date. Another way to ensure chemical-free products is to check for the “Organic Agriculture Certification Thailand” and “IFOAM Accredited” seals. Whatever your reasons for buying organic, the below are some my favorite places to do food shopping in the Big Mango.
Meat: Though not organic, the 5th-generation French butcher at Gargantua on Soi Convent has 50-years’ experience choosing the best Thai meat and is known for his: cote de boeuf (prime rib), roti de veau (veal roast) and cocur de rumsteak (beef tenderloin). TheAccidentalButcher.com has a Tasmanian Angus Rump Steak (฿1,900 per kilo) that is truly an amazing experience. All their beef and lamb is pasture-raised in Tasmania or Robbin Island, and has no hormones as they are banned. Sloanes.co.th offers free- range, herb-fed sausages, spare ribs, pulled pork, and cured pork products for delivery and BBQ services.
Fruits and Vegetables: I have to say I often go to Tops at Central Chidlom because I like to select my own produce. They have a large selection of Adams Organic and Rangsit Farms organic vegetables, as well as organic papaya, bananas, and apples. Gala, Red, and Granny Smith organic apples are available for ฿29-35 each in-store or online Seafood: at http://topsshoponline.tops.co.th/en. RadianceWholefoods.com According to a Science Magazine Jan 9th, 2004 has a wide selection of good-quality, organic vegetables, but many article (Vol. 303, Issue 5655, pp. 226-229) "a times they run out of the item and it’s not known until delivery date- study found the levels of PCBs, a potentially -you are not charged but your recipe is left lacking. PaleoRobbie (paleorobbie.com) carcinogenic chemical, to be has a nice grocery selection as well. ten times higher in farmed fish than in wild-caught fish." Of all of Thailand’s fisheries, none have met the Marine Stewardship Council (https://www. msc.org/) global standards for sustainability and none have met the ASC Aquaculture Steward- ship Council (www.asc-aqua.org) sustainability standards for farmed fish. One hope is that Green Net, a company linking wild catch fishing villagers with buyers that cut out the distributers fees and chemicals, can supply more than shrimp, lobster, and crab in the near future and get their website http://seafood.bkkfm.org/ up and running.
Until then, for wild caught fish, you most often will have to settle for frozen, individually- packed, imported fish. Try Paleo Robbie.com, who deliver for minimum order of ฿1,500. I like their: Wild Sockeye Salmon (฿940 per kilo), Wild Breads: Alaskan Coho Salmon (฿600 per kilo), and Wild Amantee.com has a reputation for the best breads in Thailand Cod (฿445 kilo). PassionDelivery.com delivers and most is organic. Available at their gallery, bakery, café or with a minimum purchase of ฿3,000, and has at BKK Farmers Markets (Tha Maharaj and Anantara Bangkok a Wild Alaskan King Salmon (฿2,650 per kilo) Riverside, every first weekend of the month; Gateway Ekamai and wild caught Cod (฿850 per kilo), so seems every second and last weekend of the month; Esplanade a bit pricer. Both have other fish from various Ratchada every 3rd weekend of the month). Conky’s and Maison companies that are imported and/or sustainable, Jean Phillipe (at Villa Markets or at the Commons of Thonglor Soi all delivered frozen. 17) run close seconds. www.bambiweb.org • 31 health
Photo credit 'thinkstock' Does My Child Have Autism? By Nanthakorn Eu-ahsunthornwattana, MD Read on to find out current information available about autism and what parents who suspect their child/ren of having autism can do to help...
Few decades ago, not many knew Health Organization, the average How do I know if my child has autism? about autism. Today, you hear about incidence globally is one in 160 Signs of autism can emerge at differ- autism from television programs, mag- children, which varies depending on ent ages and varies in severity and azines, the Internet, and perhaps even country and ethnicity.[1] However, pattern from child to child. Although Fyour friends. However, not everyone it is interesting to note that parents the clinical presentation may differ, really knows about this condition. with an autistic child have anywhere many warning signs can alert you as between 2-18% chance of having early as in the first year of a child’s What is autism? another child with autism,[2] which life. Autism, or Autistic Spectrum Disorder is much higher than for the general (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental dis- population. Warning signs in the first two years order characterized by three distinct Difficulty in social interactions might features: social interaction difficulty, How is autism diagnosed? be seen since during the first few communication problem, and restric- Autism has to be diagnosed via inten- months. Autistic infants might not like tive-repetitive behaviors and interests. sive behavioral observation following being cuddled, rarely make eye con- Current scientific evidence supports standard criteria by qualified profes- tact, or prefer to lie alone quietly for that multiple factors, mainly genetic sionals such as developmental-behav- hours. They might not show social and epigenetic (heritable changes in ioral pediatricians, child psychiatrists, smiles, laugh when being tickled, or how a gene is expressed that does and clinical psychologists. respond to their own names. These not involve changes to the underlying behaviors may be mistaken for a DNA sequence), cause autism--mean- The diagnostic criteria for autism hearing problem. However, children ing that children with autism are born spectrum disorder requires two core with autism will respond (and are with the “autism” genes. Child rear- symptoms: (1) persistent deficits in so- sometimes very sensitive) to sounds ing, vaccines, and nutrition do not cial communication and social inter- from vehicles, engines or television. cause autism. action across multiple contexts and (2) demonstrated restricted and repetitive Delayed language development is How big is the problem? pattern of behaviors, interests or ac- very common in autism. While typical Currently, according to the World tivities[3]. children begin saying “mama” and 32 • March 2016 health “dada” around nine months old and when they are over- or under-sensi- [8]. Because every child has his or her utter their first meaningful word before tized. While these mannerisms usually own strengths and weaknesses, there 18 months, those with autism often fade away, some can persist in severe is no single solution for therapy that start talking much later. They also may cases or in low-intelligence kids. works for all children. The best solu- speak their own language, or repeat tion should be designed depending words or songs they hear frequently Restrictive interests and fixed routines on each child’s specific symptoms. without understanding them. are common in children with autism. They prefer to have the same daily Medications Regression of language can be seen routine, in the same environment, with There is no medication for the core in about 25% of children with autism. the same people. Their interests are symptoms. Some medication, how- Some children can say a few mean- also very limited; for example, they ever, can be taken to help reduce ingful words before they stop talking can can play with or talk about dino- problematic behaviors, such as ag- and lose interest in other people. This saurs all day. gression, mood problems, or hyper- usually happens between 12 and 18 activity, all of which negatively affect months and could be the sign of a What should I do if I think my child therapy. serious neurological problem. There- has autism? fore, if your child shows regression of When you suspect that your child has Long-term plan some developmental skills, you should autism, you should take them to see When school age is reached and if so- have them see specialists. specialist as early as possible. Early cial function is good enough, children detection will lead to early interven- with autism should have the chance to Warning signs of autism in older tion (treatment) and, therefore, the attend regular school classes, ideally children best outcome for your child. There are with typical-developing peers, so they Children with autism usually avoid a few screening questionnaires avail- can develop normal social skills. If a making eye contact or show little to able online such as Modified Check- child’s social function or cognitive lev- no interest in their peers. They do not list for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) el is not adequate for regular school, communicate their needs in typical [4] and the Autism Quotient (AQ) [5] then special education in a special ways, such as pointing to the thing that may provide a better understand- school or institute would be the next they want. ing of where your child stands. option.
They also have difficulty understand- What is the treatment? Doctor to parents ing facial expressions or decoding The main treatment for autism is early Understanding of autism has increased other’s feelings. Children with autism intervention. Early intervention con- rapidly in the last 10 years. However, display signs of social difficulties; sists of behavioral therapy, speech it is necessary to get knowledge from they may not know how to play with therapy, occupational therapy, social reliable sources of information. Some or talk to other kids appropriately. skill training, and special education. examples of unreliable information Many people tend to misunderstand These therapies will help children com- include the much debated link between this behavior as being rude or badly municate their needs to others. There vaccine and autism, despite scientific behaved. are many techniques and methods evidence pointing to the contrary [9]; approved for children with autism, the growth of alternative treatments Repetitive behaviors are usually seen including Applied Behavioral Analy- despite a clear lack of evidence in younger children. These include sis (ABA) [6], DIR (Developmental, supporting their efficacy [10]. So, hand flapping, finger flicking and Individual-differences, & Relationship- please talk to healthcare professionals body rocking. These behaviors are based model) or “Floor time” [7], and if you have any questions. thought to be the way they self-soothe the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
References: [1] World Health Organization (Jan 2016). Autism Spectrum Disorders Fact Sheet. Available: http://www.who.int/ mediacentre/factsheets/autism-spectrum-disorders/en/. [2] US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (Aug 2015). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Data & Statistics. Available: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html [3] CDC (Aug 2015). DSM-V criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Available: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/hcp-dsm.html [4] Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT). See: http://www.m-chat.org [5] Autism quotient (AQ). See:http://www.autismresearchcentre.com [6] Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). See: http://www.lovaas.com/ [7] Floor time or DIR (Developmental, Individual-differences, & Relationship-based model). See: http://www. stanleygreenspan.com/ [8] Early Start Denver Model (ESDM). See: http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/mindinstitute/research/esdm/ [9] Autism fact for parents. Available: http://www2.aap.org/advocacy/releases/autismfactsforparents.pdf [10] CDC (Aug 2015). Autism Spectrum Disorder: Treatment. Available: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/ treatment.html www.bambiweb.org • 33 34 • March 2016 W.O.M.B.L.E.S.
Face of the Month Sandra Jensen Landi
By Alessandra Marazzi Rodel
Meet Sandra Jensen Landi, a 38-year-old Deputy Head of Mission at the Danish Embassy to Thailand and Cambodia. She enjoys exploring the region with her two kids who are two years and four years old.
BAMBI NEWS: When did you arrive in Thailand/BKK? BN: What is the most exciting thing in your motherhood Where from? experience? Sandra Jensen Landi: We arrived in Thailand at the end of SJL: There are so many exciting things and I love to keep on B2013. Our last stop was Copenhagen, where we spent 4 discovering the world from their viewpoint. We really enjoy years. Before that we both worked in different conflict areas in travelling with the kids and have had many exciting trips with the world - but that was before the kids. them, especially in this region. However, the number one exciting thing must be the first days of their life, when you have BN: What brought you to BKK? given birth to this precious little life - and you are even allowed SJL: My work at the Danish embassy. to take the baby with you home!
BN: What kind of work do you do? Where? Working BN: What do you like to do best when having a day off hours? What do you like in your work? work? SJL: I am Deputy Head of Mission at the Danish embassy to SJL: I like either having a completely plan-free day at home Thailand and Cambodia. I am heading the political section with the family or to go on a new adventure with them - to of the embassy and the administration. I am part of the explore new corners of Bangkok and the region. The kids like management of the embassy and stand-in for the Ambassador, that as well - they are little troopers! when he is not in the country. An embassy has a wide range of tasks - such as servicing Danes in distress, issuing visas BN: When did you join BAMBI? Why? to Denmark, promoting Danish-Thai or Danish-Cambodian SJL: I joined BAMBI when I first moved to Bangkok and was commercial ties, analysing the political developments in the looking for playgroups. country and more broadly representing Denmark towards various local and international partners. So my work is very BN: What are your hobbies? varied, which I like a lot. I am also extremely fond of the team SJL: I used to have a lot of hobbies, but now I hardly remember we have in the embassy with lots of dedicated and talented them anymore... But I try to do yoga at least once a week. That Thai colleagues. My working week is in principle 37 hours, helps keep my balance both physically and mentally. I also but in reality it is often more. keep dreaming about reading more books and getting fit. But that will have to wait a bit. BN: What is the most challenging part of being a working mum? BN: Any additional info/ thoughts/ experiences/ ideas SJL: That would be battling the eternal bad conscience - both you would like to share with our audience? towards the kids and towards work. It took me a while to SJL: When deciding whether or when to start working again find the balance in the context of Thailand, because there are after becoming a mum, it is important to be honest with many moms who do not work here (contrary to Denmark where oneself. I have enjoyed being a full-time mom in periods but most moms work). My daughters sometimes ask me why I can't I also have a need for preserving my professional identity to pick them up every day like some of the other moms, and in feel in balance. Those needs are very different from person to the school, for example, there seems to be many expectations person and it is important to try to disregard what others do for parent participation within regular working hours. But the around you and focus on finding the right balance for yourself. fantastic nannies you can find in this city help a lot - our nanny In my view, finding this balance ultimately makes you a better is a true blessing and the glue that keeps our daily life together. parent. www.bambiweb.org • 35 WOMBLES Dinner WOMBLES, Working Overstressed Mothers of Bangkok Let’s Eat Supper, is a group of working mothers and others who usually meet on the second Thursday of each month for dinner around Bangkok. Do you feel like you need some time off? Some time to meet other women who share the same challenges with balancing Wlife in and out of the office? Some time to connect and reconnect? Join us for our WOMBLES dinner! Are you ready to Tango? Join us to experience the Argentinian flavors at EL GAUCHO ARGENTINIAN STEAKHOUSE. Featuring traditional steakhouse gastronomy with a modern ambiance, El Gaucho offers high standard service and hos- pitality. Only fresh, high-quality locally sourced and sustainable products are used, together with carefully selected natural prime beef cuts, and a selection of outstanding international wines to provide an exceptional dining experience. The Argentinian touch can be found in all parts of the restaurant concept – The menu, drink and wine list and ambience. Our monthly Wombles dinner will take place at the newly opened branch inside the Eight Thonglor. March Dinner Thursday March 10, 2016 Time: 7:30-10:30pm Venue: EI8HT Thonglor Bldg.
88/36 Sukhumvit 55 (Thonglor) Klongton Nua, Wattana BANGKOK 10110 Phone: +66 887 213 088 Website: http://elgaucho.asia/thailand/butcheries.html
You can reserve a spot by replying to this e-mail before March 7th at [email protected] or messaging me at 0814244220. As we make the reservation at the restaurant Hope to see you there! according to your received confirmations, please be so kind to confirm only if you really Cheers, plan to attend WOMBLES. Alessandra Rodel Upcoming Wombles Dinner
APRIL MAY Thursday, 21st April 2016 Thursday, 19th May at 7:30pm Time: 8:00 - 10:30pm Time: 8:00-10:30pm Venue: Kram Venue: Soul Food Mahanakorn 113 Sukhumvit Soi 39 (Sukhumvit), Bangkok 56/10 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), Bangkok Area: Phrom Phong Area: Thonglor Alfresco, parking available Nearest Train: BTS Thong Lo Tel: +66 02-258-8170 Tel: 02-714-7708 Website: www.facebook.com/krambkk Website: www.soulfoodmahanakorn.com You can reserve by emailing Bovy before March 12th at You can reserve a spot by emailing Bovy before [email protected] or May 15th 2016 at [email protected] or by SMS to 087-977-2979. messaging me at 087-9772979. 36 • March 2016 www.bambiweb.org • 37 recipe
Ingredients • 1 cup of oats
• 1 cup of dessicated coconut (keep some aside for Balls of coating the balls later, if you wish) • ½ cup of chocolate chips
• ½ cup of ground almonds Energy • 4 tablespoons of nut butter - suggestions are: maca- damia nut butter, almond nut butter or any regular peanut butter will work but does make the end result Words and photos by: Roslyn Uys take strongly of peanuts
• ½ cup of coconut milk or cream
Method Measure out the ingredients into a big mixing bowl (tasting along the way also helps) and then give them a good mix. Cover with clingwrap and place the bowl in the fridge for about half an hour. Take it out and have fun making small balls. You can roll them in coconut once complete. Keep the balls refrigerated and eat when- ever you fancy. Great snack for on the run to keep the energy lev- els of your little munchkins up! My 3-year-old daughter and I do this entire recipe together. She loves doing the measuring out, mixing and rolling of the balls.
Enjoy!
38 • March 2016 Thai feature
Weighty Issues Words by Ema Naito-Bhakdi Photos by Azusa Uchida
Maintaining a healthy diet and an active lifestyle for your offspring can be a challenge when living in Bangkok. Ema Naito-Bhakdi interviewed some Thai moms about their views on these issues.
I don’t like clothes shopping for myself readily available--while physical activity so-called ‘lifestyle diseases’ such as anywhere, but it is particularly frustrating decreases, causing an energy intake diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in Thailand because the sizes here imbalance and subsequent weight- as a younger age.[4] are so tiny. Yet, it turns out that the gain.[3] Iperceived petiteness of Thais can be But what are the people to do? We all deceptive: Thailand has a growing Children who are overweight or obese are familiar with the challenges of being obesity problem like many middle- are more likely to become obese adults, active in Bangkok: the hot, humid climate; income countries, and in 2011 ranked and are more likely to develop the terrible air quality; lack of pleasant parks second among ASEAN countries in in the neighbourhood unless you’re lucky adult overweight and obesity rates[1]. enough to live near Lumpini or Benjasiri Obesity is a problem among children as or Suan Rot Fai Parks; and too much time well, and has been found to be high in spent sitting in cars. urban centers such as Bangkok, and to a lesser degree in rural areas.[2] For the adults in Bangkok, there are gyms and yoga classes (perhaps more for the Thailand isn’t alone in facing an younger generations), and good old obesity problem. As societies become jogging in the parks. Biking appears to wealthier, food availability and diets be on the rise in recent years. Bangkok change--processed, energy-dense and is also renowned for its free aerobics nutrient poor foods are now cheap and (usually at 6am and 6pm) and tai chi www.bambiweb.org • 39 Thai feature sessions in numerous parks. I’ve seen card includes a table indicating if your various generations of people make use child is slightly obese, moderately The Village International Education Centre of spaces like a local government office obese, or obese, and she’s learned that compound and hospitals by the river to the percentage of obese school children Celebrating 15 years of rewarding, inclusive special needs education jog, walk, or bike around sunset; and is actually an indicator used in school the elders in my neighbourhood take accreditation. Some schools run their brisk walking exercise in the soi and own health initiatives; one school had compound. arranged for weekly aerobic workouts for students, led by volunteers from the So, when it comes to being active Chulalongkorn Faculty of Medicine. with their kids, what are some Thai parents’ perspectives? I asked a few The World Health Organization’s well-educated Thai professional moms. Commission to End Childhood Obesity (Note that this is from a tiny sample and recommends a six-pronged approach doesn’t claim to speak for all Thais.) to end childhood obesity: promote intake of health foods; promote physical It seems that there is not a consensus activity; provide preconception and among Thai parents on whether child pregnancy care; early childhood diet obesity was a concern: some moms is certainly an option in this hot and and physical activity; health, nutrition said they definitely thought about it, as humid climate; having a trampoline and physical activity for school-age more and more children, especially in was another great way to get the kids children; and weight management.[6] big cities, seemed to be above-average to burn off some energy; and kids can All things that parents may think about in weight; while others were of the view also help out with gardening or with anyway! that Thai parents were more likely to washing the car on weekends. worry whether their young children were It looks like we--whether expats or Thai- eating enough or were growing at the One of the moms, a health professional, -are in the same boat on this one, as right pace for their age. They were also explained that both ministries of we continue to try to find ways to make quick to point out that traditional Thai education and public health run health sure our children learn about and get meals were rice-based and included promotion programs in schools. Another good nutrition and physical activity, plenty of vegetables, and were not as pointed out that in recent years the Thai regardless of the challenges of Bangkok fattening as Western diets--although the Health Promotion Foundation (“Sor Sor city life. challenge is that diets are changing and Sor”) have run campaigns to encourage children may be increasingly exposed Thai people to be more active and Acknowledgements: Many thanks to to heavier, Western-influenced foods reduce their fat, although not specifically Plum (mom to Ann, 4), Mama of the Two than in the past. targeting children. Schools with Js (6 & 2), Kanyaratn (mom to a 3-year- old and a 5-month-old), Orawan (mom While 15 years ago in Thailand, to two kids, 12 & 10), and Pen (fitness he Village International Education Centre is • All ages and needs welcome researchers found that higher parental guru) for their help and contributions! a special needs school based in the heart of • Small class sizes, individual program education levels and socioeconomic Bangkok. We offer multiple curricula and • International school calendar followed status was positively related to child ______Tindividualised programs which cater to the needs of each • Therapy and assessments available during the obesity[5], these days, I wonder about the many chunky children among the [1] World Health Organization (2011). and every student. We have specialists in speech and day, evenings and weekends lower-income families who work in my Noncommunicable Diseases Country language, occupational therapy, behaviour, counselling, • English national curriculum, ASDAN life skills local marketplace. Similar to the high- Profiles. literacy and educational psychology. We believe in curriculum, Early years program and sensory income countries of the world, surely we [2] G Langendijk, et al. (2003). The are seeing a result of the combination prevalence of childhood obesity in teaching our young people how to learn and how to live based curriculum of low parental awareness regarding primary school children in urban Khon in environments conducive to their individual needs. healthy eating, and the easy access Kaen, Northeast Thailand. Asia Pacific to processed fast foods and sugary initiative may apply to the foundation Journal of Clinical Nutrition. drinks on every city block. Furthermore, for funding as well. In some places, the [3] World Health Organization (2016). chubby babies have traditionally been municipality or other local authorities Report of the Commission on Ending considered cute among many Thais, provide funds for public playgrounds Childhood Obesity. and a somewhat overweight child may and sports equipment in school, [4] World Health Organization. only be seen as glowingly ‘healthy’ than although they are usually focused on the Childhood overweight and obesity as having a health problem. physical infrastructure and often build (webpage). http://www.who.int/ without assessing the local needs, so dietphysicalactivity/childhood/en/ To keep active, the playground--both that sometimes the equipment just sits [5] N Sakamoto, et al. (2001). A public and at schools--is a favourite, there with no one using them. I’d say social epidemiologic study of obesity and swimming lessons were popular. that maintenance seems to also be an among preschool children in Thailand. Older kids could go cycling, especially issue, where such equipment are in International Journal of Obesity. if they lived in a nice area. While not disarray and look dangerous to use. [6] World Health Organization (2016). 14 Soi Sukhumvit 42, Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong, Klong Tuey, Bangkok 10110 something that immediately came to Report of the Commission on Ending Tel: (66) 2 3914453 up to 5 - Fax: (66) 2 3914005 my mind, playing on the Nintendo Wii One mom shared that her son’s report Childhood Obesity. To book a visit please contact - [email protected] - www.village-education.com 40 • March 2016 The Village International Education Centre Celebrating 15 years of rewarding, inclusive special needs education
he Village International Education Centre is • All ages and needs welcome a special needs school based in the heart of • Small class sizes, individual program Bangkok. We offer multiple curricula and • International school calendar followed Tindividualised programs which cater to the needs of each • Therapy and assessments available during the and every student. We have specialists in speech and day, evenings and weekends language, occupational therapy, behaviour, counselling, • English national curriculum, ASDAN life skills literacy and educational psychology. We believe in curriculum, Early years program and sensory teaching our young people how to learn and how to live based curriculum in environments conducive to their individual needs.
14 Soi Sukhumvit 42, Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong, Klong Tuey, Bangkok 10110 Tel: (66) 2 3914453 up to 5 - Fax: (66) 2 3914005 To book a visit please contact - [email protected] - www.village-education.com www.bambiweb.org • 41 Bumps & Babies
Bumps & Babies is a support group for women of all nationalities who are pregnant or have recently given birth. Most weeks there is a short talk on a topic related to pregnancy or parenting. The BAMBI website calendar and Facebook pages hold current information regarding what’s on. Meetings are coordinated by a medical professional who is also there to offer support. If you are a new parent to Bangkok and are looking for support regarding information on doulas, breastfeeding, child birthing classes, baby wearing or postpartum depression please feel free to ask our coordinator or visit www.bambiweb.org and look under “Services” to find our “Bumps & Babies” page. Pain Management in Labour… Ditching the Drugs By Emma McHugh Credit www.austinchildbirth.com As the BAMBI Bumps and Babies team launch their new TENS Machine rental service, we explore the options for drug-free pain management in labour.
Most women approaching the end of Ancheta, 2005). This will ensure that so hard during contractions. Ask any their pregnancy and who are planning your system is not flooded with stress woman who has had to endure even 10 a normal birth will express some fear or hormones that increase anxiety and minutes of lying on her back in labour, anxiety about their impending labour. heighten your perception of pain. So the relief she feels upon getting off the The root of much of that fear is the pain whether it’s at home in early labour, bed is immense. Mthey can expect to experience. Many or later at the hospital, take the time want a drug-free labour and birth but to dim the lights, choose some sooth- Relaxation Techniques fear that they will not be able to achieve ing music and, perhaps, a pillow mist Breathing and relaxation techniques this. or fragrance to help you relax. For birth are useful for labour and are best ex- In reality, labour pain feels different partners, keep calm and reassure your plored in the antenatal period so they for every woman. The size and position partner that she is doing wonderfully. can be practiced before labour. Focus- of the baby, the strength of the contrac- ing on breathing can serve as a dis- tions, and any use of synthetic oxyto- Active Birth traction during contractions and help cin to speed up labour can all have an One of the most effective forms of pain reduce overall anxiety. impact on the amount of pain you feel. relief is the freedom to move and adopt Also, a massage during labour However, remember that drug-free positions that encourage the baby to helps not only to relieve back pain but does not mean doing it all on your own. get in a good position for birth. Being also relaxes you in between contrac- There are several non-pharmacolog- upright and mobile during labour helps tions. Giving you a massage is also ical options to help you manage your to widen the pelvic area and supports an opportunity for your partner to feel labour pain, and it all starts with your the delicate hormonal balance, which involved in your labour experience and preparation. sustains labour and allows you to uti- help in the release of oxytocin. Ideally, pain management should lize your natural painkillers or endor- begin in the antenatal period. Research phins. Gentle movement also helps Hypnotherapy your options and discuss any fears or to oxygenate the large abdominal and Hypnotherapy has enjoyed rising anxiety you have about your labour uterine muscles, which are working popularity of late. Women who have with your physician or doula. Formu- practiced hypno- late a plan for how you would like to therapy during their manage your pain. Remember you pregnancy will have can always change your mind later, but learnt techniques to having a plan can help to remove some remain calm, relaxed of the anxiety and help you feel more in and focused. They will control. have practiced deep So, what are some of these options breathing and visu- to consider for your birth plan? alization repeatedly over time, giving their The Birth Environment subconscious positive It is vital that both the physical envi- suggestions about re- ronment (i.e., the birth room and the laxing and remaining health personnel) are relaxed, friendly calm during labour. and sympathetic to birth (Simkin and 4242 • • March March 2016 2016 BAMBI is a project of the Childbirth and Breastfeeding Foundation of Thailand and welcomes speakers from all areas, presenting a wide range of information. All attempts are made to present topics of interest to BAMBI members, but those who present do so independently of BAMBI and as an organization, we remain impartial to any points of view expressed. Coordinators: Fran Safaie 087-613-1374, [email protected] Suggested family donation: ฿150 BAMBI with BAMBI membership card & ฿250 for non-members. Membership can be processed and renewed during the session. BAMBI Library: Bumps & Babies has a significant collection of books about pregnancy, childbirth, baby care and parenting. Books can be borrowed by anyone in return for a ฿500 fully refundable deposit. Queries to be directed to: [email protected].
Aromatherapy aid labour and reduce pain levels. Wa- Aromatherapy is a complementary ter also helps to relax perineal muscles therapy that uses concentrated essen- and lowers blood pressure. tial oils extracted from plants. These oils are used for their therapeutic quali- TENS – Transcutaneous Electrical ties. Unlike other forms of non-phar- Nerve Stimulation macological pain relief, this should not Whilst it may sound like a medieval tor- be tried out until a woman is in labour. ture device, TENS is actually a useful Many of the recommended essential tool in relieving labour pain. Much like oils, such as Clary Sage, cause uterine acupuncture, TENS works on blocking contractions and are, therefore, con- pain signals travelling from the nerve traindicated in preterm women (Burns in the abdomen up the spinal cord to and Blamey, 2008). Although many the brain. TENS works on the principle health food shops and therapists sell of the Gate Theory of Pain (Melzack Proto credit: www.austinchildbirth.com oil blends for labour, it is important to and Wall, 1988). The theory states Fig 1. seek medical advice before using es- that sensations of rub or tickle pass Placement of TENS on the sential oils. along nerves in the spinal column lower back quicker than pain impulses. By stimu- Acupuncture lating these larger nerve fibres with Due to the electrical nature of the This ancient Chinese therapy involves an electrical impulse, you essentially device, TENS is not recommended for the insertion of fine needles into the close the gate to the pain signal, much any woman with a cardiac pacemaker. body in order to stimulate nerve end- like rubbing your knee if you bash it on It is also not safe for use in water and ings in muscles and block pain sig- a table leg. therefore must be removed if entering nals reaching the brain. Acupuncture the shower, bath or birth pool. is increasingly being integrated into In order to enjoy the full benefit of Remember there is no “right way” to mainstream obstetric care (Vickers et TENS, it is advised to use it as soon manage labour pain. You must choose al 2012), and it is widely available in as labour starts. It involves placing four what works best for you - be it with one most international hospitals in Bang- adhesive pads with electrodes on your of the drug-free methods discussed kok. The use of acupuncture has been lower back, two on either side of the here or with conventional analgesia. linked to shorter labour and reduced spine (Fig 1). You control the strength The key, however, is to be armed with risk of instrumental delivery (Citovitz et of electrical impulse through a hand- pertinent information beforehand to al 2009). held central unit. Low frequency inter- help you feel more in control when you mittent TENS current between contrac- go into labour. Immersion in Water tions is thought to stimulate the release The BAMBI Bumps team have three Research has shown that women, who of endorphins, your natural pain-killers, new TENS units available for hire at labour in water for the first stage of la- hence dulling the perception of pain. ฿400 for a 35-day period, with a ฿1,500 bour, reported less pain and used less High frequency, continuous TENS cur- refundable security deposit. Please analgesia (Cluett and Burns, 2008). It rent closes the gate that allows pain contact Fran on bumpsassist2@bam- is thought that the buoyancy of the wa- signals to travel up the spinal cord to biweb.org or Emma on bumps.bambi@ ter is soothing, and being in the pool the brain, thus providing relief from gmail.com for further details. encourages you to adopt positions that contractions in the first stage of labour.
References: Melzack, R. and Wall, P. (1965) Pain Mechanisms, A New Theory. Science 150 (3699) 971-979. Simkin, P. and Ancheta, R. (2005) The Labour Progress Handbook 2nd Ed. Blackwell Press: Oxford. Burns, E. and Blamey, C. (2008) Using Aromatherapy in Birth. Nursing Times 9 (9), 54-60. Cluett, E.R. and Burns, E. (2008) Immersion in water for labour and birth. Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews (4) Art. No.: CD000111.DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD000111.pub3. Vickers, A.J., Cronin, A.M. Acupuncture or Acupressure for pain management in labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews(7) CD009232. Citovitz, C. Klimenko, E. (2009) Effects of acupuncture during labour and deliveryin a US hospital settin: a case controlled pilot study. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine 15: 501-505. www.bambiweb.org • 43 announcements Annual General Meeting BAMBI Needs You! Come Join the Committee!
9:30 am, Thursday March 31, 2016 The British Club, 189 Surawongse Rd (entrance is via Silom Rd, Soi 18; please show ID).
BAMBI's Annual General Meeting will be held on March 31th Please read through the following descriptions to see what you at the British Club. All members are encouraged to attend to fancy. If you are interested in any of the voting positions listed, help determine future directions for BAMBI. The primary task please contact the Chairwoman or other current committee at the AGM will be to elect new leaders for BAMBI for the members listed on page 57 of BAMBI News and then join Bcoming year. us at the BAMBI AGM on March 31, 9:30am at The British Club. If you are interested in volunteering but unable to attend BAMBI is managed by a member-elected group of volunteers. the AGM, please notify the Chairwoman of your interest and At the commencement of the meeting all current committee the position you would like to fill: chairwoman@bambiweb. members will step down, and nominations for all roles will org. be taken from the floor. There are several current committee members who are willing to continue in their roles. Please see VOTING POSITIONS IN THE BAMBI COMMITTEE the list of nominees below. CHAIRWOMAN *Please note, all volunteer-parents should be BAMBI Members. Coordinates the work of the committee and liases with Childbirth & Breastfeeding Foundation of Thailand (CBFT). BAMBI needs your help! Some positions require a larger time Acts as BAMBI’s official representative in the wider community commitment, while others simply require a smiling face and and liaises with other voluntary groups in Bangkok. Chairs the small time commitment. Some positions can be completed monthly Committee meetings. Writes a monthly column for the almost entirely from home, while others will have you out and magazine, to keep in touch with the members. Endeavours to about at various BAMBI functions within the community. Some be present at BAMBI meetings and activities. Prepares annual of the positions can also be shared by two members. report for the AGM and the CBFT. Together with the Treasurer, she sets the Budget for each department. Becoming a bit bored? Want to keep your priorities balanced? Don’t want to over commit yourself? Then we have a job for SECRETARY you! Administrator for the committee. Records and distributes minutes of meetings, handles general correspondence, writes Benefits thank you letters, performs office-related tasks, keeps details of • Work with a great group of like minded people and feel the Committee members up to date and checks that BAMBI involved. constitution is adhered to. Chairs committee meetings when • Take a role in directing the future of BAMBI. Chair not available. May also help with the representative • Have something concrete to put on your resume. aspects of the Chair. Responsible to coordinate orders of BAMBI support-items. Remuneration • Ummmm…..zero! But entrance fees are waived for TREASURER committee members attending regular BAMBI meetings Treasurer is responsible for all financial aspects of BAMBI. (Bumps and Babies, British Club and all other BAMBI- This includes: Supporting BAMBI volunteers on financial Sponsored playgroups and special events). aspects – budgets for their activities, facilitating financial transactions, departmental reporting; Processing internal Expectations and external payments / receipts; Preparing and presenting • All voting committee members are required to attend the financial reports at the monthly committee meeting and annual monthly committee meeting as a voting members and AGM; Ensuring compliance with accounting/book-keeping participate/assist with events, fundraisers and other requirements. Chairs meetings when the Chair and Secretary organizational activities. are not available. The role requires high level of integrity in • You and your family come first. As a volunteer you will dealing with organisational finances; Academic/ professional be expected to do what you say you will do but with the background in accounting/finance and good command of understanding that being a parent of young children often written and spoken English are a plus. brings unexpected situations. You will form part of a team of mums – everyone is in the same boat! MAGAZINE EDITOR • While the committee year runs for 12 months, many of us Edits the BAMBI News monthly magazine; gathers and are unsure of our tenure in Bangkok. All we ask is for your proofreads articles; decides on themes and layout of the commitment for as long as you can. magazine. Coordinates the production with the help of 44 • March 2016 announcements assistants and a graphic designer. Acts as the main liaison policy etc. Works diligently to ensure that all classifieds, with the publisher. events, etc. are up-to-date and site appropriate.
CHARITIES COORDINATOR BRITISH CLUB PLAYGROUP LEADER Identify and evaluate potential charities to be recipients of Serves as the primary contact and coordinator for the BAMBI sponsorships. Follow BAMBI guidelines regarding British Club playgroup, as well as one of the voting BAMBI sponsorships. Arrange for the collection and distribution of Committee members. Attends and manages the logistical and monetary and material donations to BAMBI charities; follows administrative components of the weekly playgroup. up with the recipient of BAMBI sponsorship how the donation was used and reports the members about that. Promotes and BUMPS & BABIES COORDINATOR organizes BAMBI fundraising activities including managing (by invitation – non elected) the Charities table at BAMBI Yard sales. Co-ordinates the postnatal support team. Organises Bumps and Babies meetings and arranges for activities and speakers. YARD SALES-EVENTS COORDINATOR Collects admission fees and submits them to the Treasurer. Responsible for organizing BAMBI's very popular second-hand Responsible for the BAMBI library that is open during Bumps sales (3 events per year) and BAMBI Annual Bazaar. The & Babies sessions. Identifies need for and requests budget position includes emailing and speaking to potential vendors, for equipment to support the activity. Updates information liaising with venues, publicizing the event, setting up before of Bumps and Babies programmes and activities on BAMBI and tidying up after events and organising kids’ activities. media channels.
EVENTS COORDINATOR SUPPORT GROUPS COORDINATOR Organizes and coordinates BAMBI’s parties/events. These (by invitation – non elected) include, but are not limited to the Splash Party, Halloween Coordinates and supports BAMBI's special interest groups, Party and Holiday/New Year Party. Responsibilities will such as adoptive parent, infertility and Down's Syndrome include: sponsor solicitation, setting-up and tidying up before groups. Oversees all support groups, identifies and sets up and after events, organizing volunteers to help out at the event, new groups when appropriate. Accepts and manages queries organizing kids activities and food vendors. from members. Prepares regular articles for BAMBI NEWS Responsible also for BAMBI table/activity on non-BAMBI concerning relevant/useful information. events when BAMBI takes part. VACANCIES IN NON VOTING POSITIONS ON PLAYGROUPS COORDINATOR THE BAMBI COMMITTEE Supports existing BAMBI-sponsored playgroups and supports BAMBI is also looking for the following non-voting positions: members in establishing new playgroups as needed; liaises with individual playgroup sponsors and leaders and the Treasurer. PLAYGROUP LEADERS Updates the Playgroups info on BAMBI media channels. Playgroup leaders help with the organization of playgroups, Coordinates content for magazine relate to Playgroups. welcoming members and collecting the entrance fee, renewing memberships and (occasionally) organizing games/crafts for NEW MEMBERS COORDINATOR the playgroup. Welcomes new members to BAMBI and acts as the main contact for inquiries. Hosts new members' coffee mornings CHARITIES ASSISTANT (once a month) and assembles and updates information packs. Assists the BAMBI Charities team to identify and evaluate Attends BAMBI meetings and events to recruit new members. potential charities to be recipients of BAMBI sponsorships according to BAMBI guidelines. DATABASE COORDINATOR Assists with BAMBI fundraising activities and with arranging Ensures the online database is maintained, that membership for the collection and distribution of monetary and material details are up to date and distributes this information to the donations to BAMBI charities. committee as needed. Responsible for preparing different lists e.g. mailing list and list of expiring members based on the data in the database and passing this information to magazine It is your turn to give back! printer/distributor. Annual General Meeting PR & MEDIA LIAISON Time & date: 9:30am, Liaises with the Coordinators to notify the media of special and regular BAMBI events & activites. Supplies various Thursday, March 31st, 2016 organizations with information about BAMBI e.g. brochures, Location: The British Club flyers. Keeps PR material up to date. Promotes BAMBI as an 189 Surawongse Rd. (entrance is via Silom Rd., Soi 18; organization in general. please show ID). WEBSITE COORDINATOR ~Please note, there will be free entrance to the British Responsible for content, layout and updating of website. Club Playgroup on the same date for BAMBI members Coordinates with assigned agency all website technical (with presenting Member card)~ functioning. Responds to e-mails and coordinates with the committee members regarding website structure, content, See you there! www.bambiweb.org • 45 profile Meet BAMBI’s Database Coordinator Gloria Pino Meet BAMBI’s Database Coordinator, Gloria Pino. Gloria is a mother of a beautiful girl, and settled in Bangkok just over a year ago.
BAMBI News: Where are you from and what’s your nationality? Can you tell us about your life back Bhome? Gloria Pino: I’m originally from Mexico but I’ve lived long enough in Barcelona to have the Spanish citizenship too. I left Mexico when I was 23 years old to study a Master in Barcelona. I fell in love with the city so I decided to stay, Until my husband accepted a job in Singapore and we moved 4 years ago; that’s where our Asian adventure started.
BN: Describe something about your career and work. Can you tell us about your spouse and what line of work he is in? GP: I’ve worked for more than 10 years doing marketing for consumer goods companies. Before moving to Bangkok, I was working in Singapore as Brand Manager. My husband works for a big BN: What do you love most about BN: How did you find out about distribution company. His focus at his Thailand? What parts of Thailand BAMBI? current job is on sales and marketing. have you travelled to and where did GP: I found out about BAMBI from the you enjoy the most? Bangkok Guide. I ordered it online BN: Can you tell us something about GP: I love the food, I really enjoy spicy before moving and it was really helpful. your family? food. And of course the people, so nice GP: My husband is Catalan and we met and always happy. BN: What made you decide to vol- in Barcelona. We have an energetic We have travelled to Hua Hin, Pattaya, unteer to be Database Coordinator and lovely 1-year-old daughter named Koh Samui, Phuket, Ayuttaya, Kanchana- for BAMBI? Mia. buri and we just came back from Sukho- GP: I wanted to go back to work slowly thai and we loved it, I can recommend- but surely so volunteering at BAMBI BN: When did you come to Thai- ed it 100%. allows me to do a job without the hassle land? What do you miss the most of a restrictive time. from your country? BN: What were your first challenges GP: We moved to Thailand in January when you arrived to Thailand? BN: Are there any specific sugges- 2015 with our little 2-months-old baby GP: We used to come very often tions you can give to BAMBI’s new Mia. I haven’t lived in Mexico for so to Bangkok when we were living in members here in Bangkok? many years, but I still miss the food a lot. Singapore … but moving around the city GP: Join the playgroups … kids will have From Barcelona, I miss the weather and with a baby opens a totally new chapter fun and you will have the chance to meet being able to walk around the city. to us! You can’t simply push the stroller lots of interesting people. … pavement holes are a constant risk BN: Can you tell us a bit about your and the lack of elevators at BTS stations routine here in Bangkok? doesn’t make it easy neither... GP: My routine is defined by my Finally traffic was also quite challenging daughter’s activities. Every day we have .. But overall you adjust to everything a different activity (swimming, music, and we learnt how to plan our journeys playdates). We are really busy. better.
46 • March 2016 www.bambiweb.org • 47 Your BAMBI Family wishes you a Happy Birthday!
1st Birthday 3rd Birthday 7th Birthday Jessabel Wagner Mar 03 Angelina Coianiz Mar 11 Daniel Tanathat Scherrey Mar 01 Chelsea Halford Mar 04 Ellie Vergara Mar 27 Theo Mollah Mar 13 Alana Silva Mar 15 Bunny Craven Mar 31 Bea Nordblom Mar 30 Lori Kariya Mar 23 4th Birthday 8th Birthday 2nd Birthday Lenny Eichentopf Mar 02 Intouch Kongwang Mar 02 Danainut Rutnin Mar 03 Rena Yamase Mar 13 Miles Craven Mar 11 Lilli Cattarin Mar 20 Hana Taguchi Mar 06 5th Birthday Federico Gallo Mar 19 Light Matsuura Mar 23 Yurika Kibe Mar 19 12th Birthday Li Yan Fu Appelman Mar 03 Kayla D'oyly Mar 20 6th Birthday Thayutha Thanapakpawin Mar 06 Anthony Thi Scherrey Mar 13 Mizuki Inoue Mar 27
BAMBI Welcomes HOW TO BECOME A BAMBI MEMBER New Members New Members Renewing Members
ANNUAL DONATION (THB) 1,100 1,000 Ami Nishizono ONLINE ENROLLMENT OPTION On BAMBI Website On BAMBI Website Ana Condic Signing Up 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org. Login to Anna Fujioka 2. Register by providing details under your member profile Members > Join BAMBI Now Apirapee Tancharoenwong 2. Under “My Membership”, click on 3. Make payment using Bank Transfer* “Renew” bu`on Bhavini Engrand and send details to BAMBI as explained 3. Make payment using Bank Transfer* Cherry Yeung under Bank Details below and send details to BAMBI as Chieko Ishinaka explained under Bank Details below Christina Weisdal Membership AcAvaAon 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your Daniela Schulze membership to be acAvated in BAMBI renewal to be acAvated and reflect on
Denise Spaull system and to receive an email your online profile. You will receive an Elif Sato confirming it and sharing details of email confirming renewal logging into your account 2. Remember to update your address
Emma Calgaro 2. Login to your account to update under your membership account on Flor Mateo address to receive your membership BAMBI website in case it has changed Jen Rongkarattanakul card and BAMBI’s monthly magazine to receive your new membership card
Jennifer Shin OFFLINE ENROLLMENT OPTION At Playgroups/Events/New Member At Playgroups/Events Coffee MeeAng Jerdnapang Sutthirat Karin Hongsaton Zackari Signing Up 1. Register at the BAMBI welcome desk 1. Renew at the BAMBI welcome desk by Kate Hutton-Potts by paying in cash paying in cash Katharina Guejdi 2. Receive membership card on the spot 2. Receive your new card on the spot 3. Be sure to also take your 6 digit
Keiko Kuwabara “renewal code” in order to acAvate Kyoko Oki membership online Mike Nash Membership AcAvaAon 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org Mina Nakamichi membership to be acAvated in BAMBI 2. Login to your member profile system and to receive an email 3. Under “My Membership”, click on Minh Trinh confirming it and sharing details of “Renew” bu`on Motoko Ono logging into your account 4. Enter the 6 digit coupon code Narumi Sami 2. Login to your account to update 5. You will be able to view the renewed Nitu Gulati address if you wish to receive the free membership details copy BAMBI’s monthly magazine Nongsamorn Klinsukon Nutwalan Methawatthanisin *B*BANK DETAILS ank Details Paijit Nodesamray Pailin Piencharoen Bank: Bank:Thanachart Thanachart Bank; Branch: 489 Bank; Ekamai ; SWIFT CODE : THBKTHBK Pheeranuch Khumpradit Account No. : 489-2-40200-6 Pimnara Ua-Tarnpisith Account Name: CHILDBIRTH AND or FOUNDATION CHILD (as shown on ATM/online banking screen) Branch: 489 Ekamai; Rachel Rayner SWIFT CODE: THBKTHBK Sally Nash Please transfer the relevant amount (1100 or 1000) to this accoAccount No. : 489-2-40200-6 unt – you can use online bank transfer Savinna Dalodom or pay through ATM in Thailand. Drop an email to [email protected] along with a[achment of Account Name: CHILDBIRTH AND or Sawada Marina proof of transfer (scan or photo of transfer slip). Please do not have your bank send us transfer Shino Hara no\fica\on directly - we will not know who made the payment and FOUNDATION CHILD (as shown on ATM/online bankingcannot ac\vate your membership. screen) Shinobu Tazo Please transfer the relevant amount (฿1,100 or ฿1,000) to this account — you can use Sudarat Gabel online bank transfer or pay through ATM in Thailand. Drop an email to database@ Sujara Pant bambiweb.org along with attachment of proof of transfer (scan or photo of transfer Sukanya Pitarnvonnakul slip). Please do not have your bank send us transfer notification directly - we will not Supasiri Amonsuti Tomomi Takamiya know who made the payment and cannot activate your membership.
48 • March 2016 BAMBI Buddies Bangkok is a wonderful place to live. It is a lively, culturally diverse place with so much going on that your baby may need an appointment diary! But it can also be a huge and forbidding place when you first arrive. BAMBI Buddies aim to make the settling-in process a bit easier with helpful contacts ready to share their local knowledge and experience of everyday life in Bangkok. These volunteers will help point you in the right direction whether you want to know how to hire a maid, where to buy baby supplies and other essentials or which mother and baby activities are right for you. Just email or phone the BAMBI buddy for your area.
Sathorn / Silom: Kerin Fargus, [email protected] / 092-253-0838 Phloenchit: Simmi Rajkitkul, [email protected] / 088-8511611 Sukhumvit - top (Expressway to Asoke): Christina Parra Cuchet, [email protected] / 080-220-4638 Sukhumvit - upper (Asoke to Thonglor):Christina Parra Cuchet, [email protected] / 080-220-4638 Sukhumvit - lower (Thong Lo to On Nut): Anh-Trang Pham, [email protected]/ 086-886-2352 Sukhumvit - end (On Nut-Bang Na): VACANT Donmuang Airport, Ramintra rd. and Jaengwattana rd. area: Dharak Wudhichut, [email protected]/087-7069998 Help in Thai, Malay & Bahasa: Simmi Rajkitkul, [email protected] / 088-8511611 Help in Japanese: Akiko Cayne, [email protected] / 080-805-6881 Help in Vietnamese: Anh-Trang Pham, [email protected]/ 086-886-2352 Help in French: Catherine Ripouilh, [email protected]/ 091-415-6107; Sandrine Thomas, [email protected] / 084-386-9108 Help in German: Ellen Siebert, [email protected] Help in Italian: Donatella Lazzari, [email protected] / 080-595-0560 Help in Russian: Tatiana Skovoronskaia, [email protected]/ 080-566-1026
www.bambiweb.org • 49 Member Benefits Flash your BAMBI Card and enjoy special discounts!
EDUCATIONAL KIDDY-KICKS: Children aged 1 to 6 CHOMP CAFE: years are welcome to develop their Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. CURTAIN UP DRAMA: Drama, soccer skills in various venues around Special Kids & baby foods. Vegan & singing and magic classes for children Bangkok. Free for toddlers under the Vegetarian goodies, Breads, Gluten (pre-school to 12 years old) at Curtain age of two; ฿380-฿420 for children aged 3 Free. Selected coffees & teas. Family Up Studio, Sukhumvit Soi 33/1. to 6 years old. friendly café. DISCOUNT: 15% off all regular studio DISCOUNT: 15% discount on DISCOUNT: 10% off when dining with classes (excluding special camps membership fees. kids. conducted during school breaks). CONTACT: Tel: 085-806-6770, CONTACT: 63-65 Samsen road, corner CONTACT: Tel: 085-552-5806, www.kiddy-kicks.com or of Samsen Soi 1, Phra nakon; Tel: 026- [email protected] [email protected] 292-026; http://www.facebook.com/ chompcafe ENHANCED DEVELOPMENT LULLABY YOGA: Offers various styles AND SENSORY INTEGRATION of yoga classes taught by qualified MRS BALBIR'S: Fine Indian cuisine. CLASSES: Learn ways to enhance Yoga Alliance Certified Teachers. Cooking classes also available. your baby’s motor, cognitive, attention DISCOUNT: ฿2,500 for one month DISCOUNT: 10% off on food and problem solving skills for years to unlimited (44% off) and 10% discount (Sukhumvit 11 location only) come. Classes for ages 4 months to on all yoga packages (excluding CONTACT: Tel: 02-651-0498, walking. drop-ins), first class is free. [email protected], DISCOUNT: 20% discount on the CONTACT: Mark, www.mrsbalbir.com class fees. www.lullaby-yoga.com/home.php. CONTACT: Donna Murphy, MS, OTR, HEALTH Tel: 089-077-8277, THE PILATES STUDIO: THIS BAMBI [email protected] OFFER IS BACK!! Pilates classes for all MEDCONSULT CLINIC: Dr Donna in a specially designed studio. Special Robinson - a UK physician holding MODERN MONTESSORI pre-natal and ‘mommy & me’ classes a Thai medical license, heads this INTERNATIONAL PRE-SCHOOL: are also available. family medicine/general practice clinic. British curriculum based on the DISCOUNT: 10% off when purchasing Doctor and clinic fees are not levied on Montessori Method of Education for packages of 10 classes or more. vaccinations. children aged 18 months to 6 years old. CONTACT: 888/58-59 Ploenchit Rd. DISCOUNT:10% discount on DISCOUNT: 50% off registration fee. Tel: 02-650-7797, www.pilates.co.th or vaccinations, lab tests and medicines. CONTACT: 4, Soi 44, Sukhumvit Rd, email: [email protected] CONTACT: 3rd Floor, Racquet Club, Tel: 02-712-0958, 084-656-1553, Sukhumvit Soi 49/9, Tel: 02-762-7855, [email protected], WHITE BALL ACADEMY: Take golf www.medconsultclinic.wordpress.com www.mmithailand.com lessons from experienced instructors, or practice your game at this indoor, SAMITIVEJ SUKHUMVIT AND MUSICAL THEATRE FOR KIDS: state-of-the-art golf academy at SAMITIVEJ SRINAKARIN HOSPITAL: Improve your child’s confidence, Thonglor 18. DISCOUNT:10% off as follows: spontaneity and creativity through DISCOUNT: Free 60 minute group Out-patient: medicine, laboratory work song, dance and art, in a warm and introduction to golf basics led by and X-ray for self-pay supportive environment. Kristen Rossi an instructor, a 10% discount on all In-patient: room charges, medicine, and Youngji Kim conduct workshops private lessons, 1 month FREE practice laboratory work and X-ray for self pay every half-term and also during breaks membership (available on weekdays, (Excludes vaccination, CT, MRI, for international schools. Suitable for 8am-4pm). ultrasound, dental, special devices children aged 5 to 10 years old. CONTACT: Tel: 02-714-9777, and special medication. No discount DISCOUNT: 10% off all class [email protected] is available on insurance and doctors packages. fees) CONTACT: Kristen Rossi, Tel: 080- Food CONTACT: Tel: 02-711-8181 909-5131, [email protected] CHARLEY BROWNS MEXICAN MISCELLANEOUS FITNESS RESTAURANT: DISCOUNT: 10% off when dining with BANGKOK SELF STORAGE: BANGKOK DOLPHINS: kids. DISCOUNT: 10% off storage units. DISCOUNT: 10% off all swimsuits and CONTACT: Tel: 02-651-2215, CONTACT: Tel: 02-261-1516 or in-store merchandise. www.charleybrowns.asia Darrel: 086-888-5121, CONTACT: Soi Klang Racquet Club, [email protected] Sukhumvit 49/9. Tel: 02-712-9297, www.bangkokdolphins.com
50 • March 2016 The following organizations offer BAMBI members special discounts upon presentation of your BAMBI membership card or if you mention that you are a BAMBI member when calling.
DESIGN2U: is a full-service web design parenting voice and achieve greater joy, SUPERYARD THAILAND: Safe, non- company which focuses on customer peace and fulfillment in your parenting. toxic, portable indoor-outdoor playard satisfaction. They are professional and DISCOUNT: 15% discount when made in the USA. It’s foldable, a fluent in both web design and English. working together with a coach. versatile design, being size and shape DISCOUNT: 10% off web design. CONTACT: megha@parent-it-forward. adjustable. Suitable for children aged CONTACT: Tel: 089-748-1073 or 081- com, www.parent-it-forward.com. 6 months - 2 years+. Authorized North 488-9698, [email protected] States Superyard dealer in Thailand. DISCOUNT: Extra 20% off on top of PARTY SUPPLIES & clearance sale price for all North States PHOTOGRAPHY: ENTERTAINMENT safety gates and extra 10% off for STEPHANIE BRETON BOUNCY CASTLE: Inflatable bouncy Superyard play yards. Shop online at DISCOUNT: Stephanie proposes an castle for rent. Suitable for children’s www.cheap.co.th or drop by the office exclusive discount of 10% + 1 free A5 party. Cleaned and sanitized regularly. in the Silom area. impression on her 2 bundle packages Rate is ฿3,500 and upwards, inclusive of CONTACT: Tel: 081-668-0303, (Newborn portrait and Family shooting), transportation and setup. [email protected] with additional printing packages DISCOUNT: ฿500 (or about 14% for the on demand (cards, calendars, etc.). least expensive castle). TRAVEL Each of her bundle packages can be CONTACT: Cheng, Tel: 081-869-0566 upgraded to fit your needs. BEACHFRONT: Child-friendly, CONTACT:Phone: +668 386 2245; PARTY LOVERS’ PARADISE SHOP: 3-bedroom holiday rental in Rayong. e-mail: [email protected]; Party supplies and much more. Open Fully-equipped condo (170 sqm) for FB :https://www.facebook.com/ Mon-Sat, 9am-5:30pm. short-term rental, 1km from the Novotel BKKSphotography; website :http:// DISCOUNT: 15% off when purchasing Rim Pae on a tranquil, palm-lined www.stephaniebreton.com/index.php/ with cash, in the shop only (excludes stretch of coast in Rayong Province. home-3/ services and promotional items). DISCOUNT: 10% reduction or ฿350 CONTACT: 3/1 Sukhumvit 49; discount on the nightly rate of ฿3,500. parent support Tel: 02-662-4827/8, CONTACT: Margo, Tel:+66-84-525- [email protected] 4105, [email protected] or IPN (INTERNATIONAL PARENTING www.beachrayong.com NETWORK THAILAND): An shopping organization which offers a wide range SAMET VIEW BEACH HOUSE: of parenting support services to parents ENGINOU (Play & Learn) Family-friendly holiday house (330sqm). and childcare professionals through DISCOUNT: 15% off all merchandise Easily accommodating 2 small families, events, seminars and workshops. purchased at the physical stores, this house is surrounded by lush DISCOUNT: 10% discount on Wireless and Thong Lo, or online with tropical gardens and is situated on the monthly event entry fees and annual the code bambionly with minimum stunning Rim Pae Beach. membership fees. purchase of 1,000. DISCOUNT: 10% off daily rate (discount CONTACT: Tel: 081-826-2399 or 093- CONTACT: 3rd Floor, All Seasons is exclusive to family bookings only). 112-9814, [email protected] or Place, CRC Tower, Wireless Road, or CONTACT: Tel: 089-129-6494, www.ipnthailand.com The Commons, Thong Lo soi 17, 2nd www.sametview.com or Fl. Play Yard, Klongtoey Nua. [email protected] KIDS HOME & FAMILY SERVICES: Tel: 081-989-0820, http://enginou.com Nanny, Maid and Babysitting Services. TRAVEL EASY ASIA: Not your DISCOUNT: 10% BAMBI discount GOOD FIND SHOP: ORIGINAL GIFTS average city guide. Our sets are small for hourly rate and daily babysitting FOR LITTLE PEOPLE: Imported and compact, concise, durable and services. ฿1,000 discount for the first educational toys, arts and crafts and bilingual. Just show and go. month of monthly babysitting services. products for kids by well-known US DISCOUNT: ฿200 off 3 or more TEA City CONTACT: Khun Jin, Tel: 02-656- brands. Cards; 10% discount (฿45) on individual 7024/5, www.thaikidshome.com DISCOUNT: 15% discount (excluding TEA CityCards - Bangkok. promotional items). CONTACT: Tel: 080-909-5131, PARENT-IT-FORWARD: Asia’s only CONTACT: Blue Hut on Sukhumvit www.traveleasyasia.com or PCI-Certified Parent Coach. Creatively Soi 38, Tel: 081-817-3114, [email protected] support and enhance your personal [email protected], parenting journey; re-connect with your www.Good-Find.com
Would you like to offer special promotions to our members? Please email us at [email protected].
www.bambiweb.org • 51 Playgroup and Activity Listings
*Welcome to our 2016 listings. Please always check the BAMBI calendar on our website or our Facebook page before setting out. Our BAMBI playgroups are run by volunteers in local pre-schools and are occasionally subject to last- minute cancellations. Before going to a non-BAMBI sponsored playgroup, please contact the school/venue to confirm that it is open and the playgroup is running. Thank you!
This year, we would love some help with our playgroups so please volunteer if you have some time to spare at your favourite group. It’s easier and more rewarding than you think to get involved. Thank you!
Tuesday, 3pm-5pm. For BAMBI SPONSORED BAMBI NANA PLAYGROUP: children aged 0-5. Come along and enjoy our relaxed playgroup with lots of fun activities held both indoors and Most of our Bangkok BAMBI playgroups will be outside in the large shaded Storytime garden including operational throughout the summer break! Please check cycling, sand and water play. Storytime Preschool, 85 Soi our Facebook page and website calendar for updates. Sama Harn, Sukhumvit Soi 4 (Nana BTS) or see www. storytime-preschool.com for directions. For more info BAMBI PLAYGROUPS are characterized by free play, please contact: [email protected]. use of the school toys and playgrounds. The donation per family for all BAMBI playgroups (except for the British BAMBI BY THE RIVERSIDE PLAYGROUP: Every Club playgroup) is ฿150 for members and ฿250 for non- second Wednesday of the month, 1:15-3:15pm. For members. New Members’ Coffee Mornings are free. You children aged 0-5. This is a playgroup with amazing can join or renew your membership at our playgroups facilities, a playground, swimming pool, sandbox and a and there is no need to reserve a spot - please just come lot of wonderful toys. Spaces are limited, please book along….. in advance by emailing [email protected]. Shrewsbury International School, 1922 Charoen Krung NEW MEMBERS’ COFFEE MORNING: Last Monday Road Wat Prayakrai Bang Kholame, Khlong Toei, of the month, 9:30-11:30am. This is a free session for Bangkok 10120. See http://www.shrewsbury.ac.th for new members to come along, make new friends and find directions. For more info please contact: playgroups@ out more about BAMBI and living in Bangkok. For more bambiweb.org. info please contact: Akiko Cayne on newmembers@ bambiweb.org. BAMBI SAWATDI PLAYGROUP: Tuesday, 9:30- 11:30am. For children aged 0-5. This is a friendly and BAMBI PATTAYA PLAYGROUP & COFFEE MORNING: relaxed stay and play; with a soft and outdoor play If you live in the Pattaya/Rayong area and are keen to area, circle time with sing songs and snacks. The IPC meet other pregnant women or mothers with babies and International Kindergarten, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Please toddlers, please join us. Gatherings are held as follows: contact [email protected] for more details. First and third Monday of the month, 10am-12pm. We have morning tea by the fantastic kids pool area and there BAMBI SUKHUMVIT 31 PLAYGROUP: Friday, 10am- are plenty of pool toys, so please bring swimwear for 12pm. For children aged 0-5. Close to BTS Phrom Phong. your child (and yourself if you like). Towels are provided The First Steps International Pre-school, 58/2 Sukhumvit and the donation includes light snacks and beverages. Soi 31, Yaek 4. Please come along for sand play, a cool Holiday Inn, No. 1 Beach Road, Pattaya. gym playroom, fun garden, some snacks and circle Second and fourth Monday of the month, 10am time with other kids and mothers. Shuttle bus service is -12pm. A fun and friendly playgroup at Ladybird provided. Please contact [email protected] for Pattaya International Kindergarten, 22/5 Moo 7, Soi more details. Porprapanimitr 22, Chonburi. For more info please contact: Delphine, Katrin or DADDY’S PLAYGROUP: Second Saturday of the Angelique on [email protected]. month, 10am-12pm. For children aged 0-6. Enjoy a light, relaxing morning in the huge shaded garden where there BAMBI BRITISH CLUB PLAYGROUP: Thursday, is a sand and water play corner as well as lots of bicycles 9:30-11:30am. For children aged 0-5. The donation per for children of all ages to ride. An indoor room with soft family for this playgroup is ฿200 for members and ฿300 toys is available for the younger ones. This is more of a for non-members. 189 Surawongse Road (entrance is family playgroup with many mums coming along, nannies via Silom Road, Soi 18; please show ID). For more info are welcome to bring the children along too. There are please contact: Alex on 091-669-1381 or bcplaygroup@ snacks for the children and coffee/tea for the adults! bambiweb.org. Parking is available at the school ground. Storytime
52 • March 2016 Preschool, 85 Soi Sama Harn, Sukhumvit Soi 4 (Nana KIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Daily Monday - Friday, BTS). For more info please contact: Adrian on 0819-277- 10am-12pm. For children aged 0-6 and their parents. 753 or [email protected]. We would like Nannies welcome on Mondays and Wednesdays. FREE to hold the Daddy's Playgroup more often so if you can pick-up/drop-off service from Ekkamai BTS station on volunteer, please let us know. Tues, Thurs and Fri (please contact for details). This is a structured playgroup with singing, dancing, arts and BAMBI BANG NA PLAYGROUP: Every Monday, 10am crafts, story time, free play and snack. Cost: ฿300 - 50% - 12pm. Join us at this playgroup which is run at Berkeley discount for BAMBI members. KIS International School, International School, 123 Bangna-Trad Road. This is Kesinee Ville Estate, 999/124 Pracha-Utit Road Huay playgroup has an indoor playroom and very nice outside Kwang (located one block north of Rama 9 Road and east facilities and playground. of Asoke-Rachadapisek, MRT Thailand Cultural Center). If you have any questions please email playgroups@ For more info please contact: 02-274-3444, bambiweb.org. Please show your BAMBI or ID card at the [email protected] orwww.kis.ac.th. entrance THE REGENT’S SCHOOL, BANGKOK, BABY AND **UPDATE** BAMBI SATHORN AND BAMBI TODDLER GROUP: Monday, 2-3:30pm, Tuesday, EKKAMAI PLAYGROUPS: These playgroups have now 9-10:30am, Friday, 1-2:30pm and Saturday 9-10:30am. closed. We are looking for new venues! For more info For children aged 10 months - 3 years. Come and enjoy please contact: [email protected]. the soft play area, arts and crafts, music time, outside play and also 'splash time' on a Friday. Drink and light NON - BAMBI SPONSORED snack included. Children must attend with their parent/ nanny. All sessions conducted in English. Cost: ฿200 There are more non-BAMBI sponsored playgroups for BAMBI members and ฿400 for non-members. The listed on the BAMBI website. Don’t forget to check Regent’s School, Bangkok, 601/99 Pracha-Uthit Road, them out! Wangtonglang. For more info/reservation please contact: 02-957-5777, Ext 202 or [email protected]. Non-BAMBI sponsored playgroups are mostly structured (school/center organizes some activities for MODERN MONTESSORI INTERNATIONAL the participants). Flash your BAMBI card and receive PRESCHOOL: a discount at many of the following playgroups. Please Monday only From 9:30 – 11:30am, For children aged 18 check with schools directly for any changes before going months to 5 years. Group size: max. 10 children. Playgroup and visit www.bambiweb.org to read about additional organized in 2 loosely timed sessions: the first is the non-BAMBI sponsored playgroups. Montessori Time, conducted by our qualified Montessori teacher in a prepared Montessori environment. After a snack break, children will be able to use our indoor gym LEGO PLAYGROUP. Monday to Thursday,10 am-12pm. and library. Refreshments are provided. Cost 250B for For children aged 2-5 years. Bambi members and 400B for non-Bambi members. Structured activities, where kids can have fun building Modern Montessori International Preschool, 4 Soi 44, Lego structures with games, activities and storytelling. Sukhumvit Road, Phrakanong. With loads of number and sign tiles, the mosaic tiles also For more info/reservation please contact: 02-712- allow children to create countless patterns while learning 0958-59 or 06-270-518-49,admissions@mmithailand. all about shapes, colors, sequences and symmetry. A com, www.mmithailand.com or http://facebook.com/ versatile course that provides a fun, hands-on way for mmipreschool. children to develop basic skills in early literacy, letter and sound recognition, fine motor skills and language skills. Snacks provided. ST. ANDREWS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL - Cost: ฿350 for Non-BAMBI members and GREEN VALLEY, RAYONG CAMPUS:Monday and ฿250 for BAMBI members. Thursday1:30pm - 3:00pm. For children aged 0-5. Reservation: Required at least one day before. This is a structured playgroup with a focus on singing Address: Young Place Plaza, A 231 Second floor, and dancing at the beginning of each playgroup. The Sukhumvit Soi 23. school has a fantastic shaded outdoor play area with a Ph: 026623039 ,0817345872 trampoline, a sand pit and a bike track as well as an air- Email: [email protected]. conditioned indoor area with a great dress-up corner, www.facebook.com/kidsroboticslearningcenter drawing, painting and play dough, a dolls corner and mini
Continued next page
www.bambiweb.org • 53 Playgroup and Activity Listings kitchen. The group is run by a highly qualified and well- Playgroup, 10am-1pm. For children aged 1-5 years. known teacher with over 20 years experience – Ms Retno Enjoy indoor playground activities and facilities including Cheah. Cost: ฿150 for non-members - 50% discount climbing and sliding, trampoline, toddler playground, for BAMBI members. St. Andrews International School, sandpit, as well as creative activities such as arts and Rayong, 1 Moo 7, Banchang - Makhamkoo Rd, Tambol craft, play dough, education game zone, imaginative Samnakthorn, Banchang, Rayong. For more info please house and reading corner. There is space for parents to contact: 03-803-0701, www.standrews-schools.com or relax and enjoy your refreshments. Childrens food and [email protected]. DIY snacks are also available to purchase. Cost: ฿200 for BAMBI members and ฿480 for non-members (2 free RBIS RASAMI BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: adults per child). Play Station - kidz club, 3rd Floor, The Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 9-11:30am. For Nine, Rama IX Rd, on the main road in front of soi 41. children aged 1-3 years and their parents. The RBIS If you come by the express way, get down at Srinakarin structured playgroup has a range of fun, stimulating and exit. It will take you down to Rama IX Rd. The Nine will be educational activities designed for little people. Cost: on your left hand side around 100 meter after the exit. For ฿500, 50% discount for BAMBI members. RBIS Rasami more info please contact: 081-696-1219, 02-716-7950 or British International School, 48/2 Soi Rajavithi 2, Rajavithi [email protected]. Road, Samsennai, Phayathai. Nearest BTS stations are Victory Monument and Saman Pao. For more info please THE TINY SEEDS INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL: contact: 02-644-5291-2, Ext 101, [email protected] Monday and Friday, 10-11:30am. For children aged 15 or www.rbis.ac.th. months-3 years. This playgroup offers children a chance to explore, play and practise their motor skills through a ABC PATHWAYS PLAYGROUPS: Tuesdays and variety of teacher led arts and crafts activities along with Thursdays (Mandarin playgroup only on Thursday), dance and movement. We invite you to participate in our 9.30-11:30am. For children aged1.5yrs -3yrs old. A fun environment. Cost: ฿400 - 50% discount for BAMBI structured playgroup offered in English and Mandarin, Members. Tiny Seeds International Preschool, 105/1-3 with class sizes of no more than 8 students. Students will Soi Naphasub 5, Sukhumvit Soi 36. For more info please sing, dance, draw, play, and more during the two hours contact: 02-260-2926 or admin@thetinyseedspreschool. of fun, guaranteed to stimulate the young adventurer in ac.th. everyone! Snacks and ‘free play’ time also provided. Cost: ฿550; packages available, - 50% discount for BAMBI THE BRITISH SCHOOL OF BANGKOK/TOPSY members. Parents can purchase packages of ten or more TURVY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Tuesday, 1-3pm. lessons and attend as desired. Please call ahead or email For children aged 1-5 years.This is a structured playgroup [email protected] to make an appointment. with arts and crafts, coloring, painting, outside play, music Students in groups of 3 or more each receive a 20% time, story time, and water play. Cost: ฿200 - 50% discount discount on playgroup packages. Sukhumvit 31, 92/32 for BAMBI members. The British School of Bangkok, 36 Soi Thawi Suk, Khlong Tan Nuea, Wattana. For more info Sukhumvit Soi 4. For more info please contact: 02-656- please contact: 02-260-6888 or www.abcpathways.co.th. 9486/02-656-9961, [email protected] or www. bsbangkok.ac. FIRST STEPS INTERNATIONAL PRESCHOOL: English Playgroup on Thursdays, 10-11:15am. For KENSINGTON INTERNATIONAL KINDERGARTEN: children aged 8-30 months. This is a structured playgroup Tuesday, 1:45-3pm. For children aged 1-2 years. Activities run by a member of the teaching staff and also includes include painting, sand, water and playdough in our Creche snacks and drinks. Activities offered include arts and classroom and Soft Gym room. A snack and refreshment crafts, splash day, story time, puppet show, music, dance will be provided. Cost: ฿250 – 50% discount for BAMBI and cooking, as well as use of the school grounds after members.,Kensington International Kindergarten, 88 the playgroup has finished. The main activities change Bangprom, Ratchapruek Rd, Talingchan, 10170. each week and are offered in English. There is “free” Tuk Please reserve your spot by calling 02-8649977. For Tuk pick-up and drop-off service from Soi 31 RSU building more info please contact: [email protected] or www. (please call for details). Cost: ฿450 - 50% discount for kensington.ac.th. BAMBI members. First Steps International Preschool, 58/2 Sukhumvit 31 (Soi Sawasdee) Yak 4. (BTS: Phrom GERMAN PLAYGROUP “SPIELZWERGE” at RIS Phong or Asoke). For more info please contact: 02-260- Swiss Section – Deutschsprachige Schule Bangkok: 3152, [email protected] or www.thefirststeps.ac.th. A German-speaking playgroup for children aged 15 months to three years. Tuesdays and Wednesdays 2:30- PLAYSTATION KIDZ CLUB: Monday International 4pm. Come play, read books, sing, and create. Small
54 • March 2016 playgroup of 7 to 10 children under the supervision of playgroup/. an experienced German-speaking group leader. It is not necessary for the accompanying parents to be able to KID’S CASTLE CHILDREN’S PLAYGROUND speak German. Price for 17 sessions: 4600THB. We offer PATTAYA: Thursday, 10am-12pm. For children aged 20% discount for BAMBI Members. 0-5 years. Mum and Me Craft Time Playgroup. Please RIS Swiss Section-Deutschsprachige Schule join us for a fun morning creating craft and chatting with Bangkok, 6/1 Ramkamhaeng 184 Road, Minburi, other mums in the playroom at Kid’s Castle, followed by Bangkok 10510 outdoor play in the shaded playground. Fruit snack for the For more info, please contact: admin@ris-swiss- children is provided. section.org / www.ris-swiss-section.org Phone: 02 518 Cost: ฿150 for BAMBI members and ฿200 for non- 0340 ext. 120, 095 506 3670 members. Membership card must be shown for the discount. STORYTIME PRESCHOOL:Every Wednesday, 9.30- Kids Castle, Soi Welcome Town, off Pattaya Klang. For 11.30am. For children aged 1-3.5 years. This is a softly more info please contact: Khun Saa: info@kidscastle. structured playgroup organised by a leader/ teacher every club or https://www.facebook.com/WiggleTown. week with different activities; circle time and singing, sand & waterplay, snacks, storytime, bicycling, artwork. GARDEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Playgroup Children will also love playing in the huge shaded garden every Monday from 2.30pm. to 3.30 pm. Ages 8 months to at this friendly preschool. Snacks is provided and parking 2 years. The fee is 100 baht per lesson. Activities include is available. Cost: ฿200 for BAMBI members, ฿400 for arts and crafts, circle time, singing and movement and non-members. Storytime Preschool, 85 Soi Samaharn, having fun! Cost: ฿100 per child. Garden International Sukhumvit Soi 4 (BTS Nana). A free Tuk Tuk service to School, 34/3-4 Yen Akart Road, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120. Sukumvit Rd/ Nana BTS is available after the playgroup. www.gardenbangkok.com. For more info please contact: For more info call: 02-656-9084 or 081-646-4535. Email Khun Jeab on 02-249-1880 or info@gardenbangkok. us at info@[email protected] or simply com. visit our website at www.storytime-preschool.com and facebook at http://www.facebook.com/storytime. BERNIE BRITISH INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY preschool. CENTRE: Thursday, 3-5pm. For children aged 1-4 years old. This playgroup is led by qualified teachers from 3-4pm SHREWSBURY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: and then parents/nannies will be free to use the indoor Wednesday, 1.15-3.15pm, during term time. For children soft play area or the outdoor play areas from 4-5pm. aged 1-3 years. Children and parents can make full use of Teacher-led activities include music and movement, arts our superb Early Years indoor and outdoor environment and crafts, circle time, storytelling, drawing and various and enjoy art and craft activities, sand and messy play, fun games, all in English. Cost: ฿400-50% discount for books, music, construction as well as water play in our BAMBI members. Bernie British International Preparatory Splash Pool. Join in story time and sing-along sessions Centre, located on Ramkamhaeng 24, Yaek 20, Soi 5, in led by our Early Years staff. Refreshments and snacks front of Rajamangala National Stadium. If you are coming provided for children and parents. Cost: ฿300 per from Rama 9, we are located behind The Nine Shopping child, ฿200 per child-BAMBI members. Shrewsbury Center on Rama 9, Soi 41, Huamak, Bangkapi. For more International School,1922 Charoen Krung Road, Wat info please contact Khun Noy on 02-719-2997, info@ Phrayakrai. Free shuttle boat service from Sathorn Pier bernie-bipc.co.th or find our map at www.bernie-bipc. (Saphan Thaksin BTS). Reservations open on every co.th Monday of Playgroup week from 10.00 am onwards. For more info please contact: Susan on 02-675-1888 ext. 1404.
ST. JOHN’S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Thursday, 9.30-11.30am. For children aged 0-3 years. This is a structured playgroup with free play, some structured play activities and use of the school's well-equipped playground. Cost: ฿250 - 50% discount for BAMBI members. St John’s International School, 1110/8 Viphavadi-Rangsit Road Latyao, Jatujak, Bangkok (Phaholyothin MRT). For more info please contact: Kwan on 02-513-8575 ext 109, [email protected] or http://wiki.stjohn.ac.th/groups/
www.bambiweb.org • 55 Support Groups
BAMBI is connected to a range of support groups in Thailand. See the details below in our list. Most are open to everyone, some ask a small donation and/or some ask for a reservation.
Achieving Balance - Group children and the wider community. The regarding the meetings, please contact the Session group meets once a month in an informal BBCS office on 085-908-8002. A support group of professional setting. Furthermore, a Facebook page development for expat women. This is a (www.facebook.com/attachedinbangkok) Breastfeeding Support supportive environment for women who includes information on AP and provides Meena Sobsamai: Australian-trained are interested in professional and personal an online platform for parents to ask childbirth educator and lactation consultant. development. We help women living in a questions on various issues, such as co- Contact: 081-776-9391, sobsamai@yahoo. foreign country who do not know what they sleeping, breastfeeding, babywearing, com.Languages: English & Thai. can do professionally there. If sometimes infant sleep issues, toilet learning and you feel defocused, frustrated or lost and much more. For more information please Breastfeeding Café Bangkok: BCB is don’t see any solutions in your particular contact Adeline Mills at adeline.mills1@ a breastfeeding support group – a place situation, we provide support to achieve gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/ where women can meet, and encourage your balance. You are welcome every last attachedinbangkok. and support each other with breastfeeding Wednesday of the month, 10am–12.30pm. issues. BFC meets at Cafe Antique on This support group is led by an Erickson Bangkok Area Homeschool Sukhumvit Soi 31 every Thursday 9:30- Professional coach. At every session we Network Group 11:30. There will be a lacto doula present provide coaching tools which help you to If you are interested in homeschooling who can offer advice and individual support find a deeper level of motivation, to know your child(ren) you can find many network if required. For more information please what you want, to better understand how groups on facebook. For more information contact Catherine Dufour at bkkbfcafe@ you can achieve it, and to feel balanced and please contact Adeline Mills at adeline. gmail.com. For updates please visit the live a full life. The atmosphere is always [email protected]. Facebook page: Bangkok Breastfeeding open and trusting. You can share your own Café. experiences and ask questions regarding Bangkok Adoption Support Group personal and professional development. There are many people in Bangkok who Cancer Support Group You can clarify and focus on what you are adopting or have adopted a child. This group provides a safe and friendly really want, and find your way to change The Bangkok Adoption Support Group environment where English-speaking so as to better your life. Also, you can offer gets together on the first Thursday of cancer patients can discuss feelings your professional background and skills to the month at 10:30am at Au Bon Pain and exchange experiences. The group create various projects designed for self- (02-664-8996), Emporium Tower (near meets every Thursday, 10:30am-12pm at realization. Contact and registration: 080- the Emporium Suites, NOT in the Mall), Bumrungrad International Hospital on the 566-1026 or [email protected] (Tatiana). 1st floor, Sukhumvit Soi 24. For more 3rd floor of the main building in conference information please contact the Adoption room no. 3. Guided by two counselors, Attached in Bangkok Support Coordinator, Sarah Dix at participation is limited to 15 patients on The Attachment Parenting group is an [email protected] or on a first come, first served basis. Please call informal group of parents who meet and Facebook, www.facebook.com/groups/ 081-809-7672 for further details. share their experiences on practicing the bambiadoptionsupport/. principles of Attachment Parenting (AP). Central Blood Register The essence of Attachment Parenting Bangkok Breast Cancer Support Rhesus Negative blood groups are very is about forming and nurturing strong Group (BBC) rare in Thailand. Thailand’s Central connections between parents and their This group aims to provide personal Blood Register lists people willing to give children. Attachment Parenting challenges attention as well as mental and emotional Rhesus Negative blood in the event of an us as parents to treat our children with support to women who have been emergency. Signing up for the CBR does kindness, respect and dignity, and to model diagnosed with breast cancer. Please not carry any obligation, nor does it mean our interactions with them in a way that contact Daljeet Saluja (Chairperson) or you will necessarily ever be asked to donate. we'd like them to interact with others. The Koong (Office Manager) at 02-256-4991 If you are called though, the chances are long-range vision of Attachment Parenting ext. 1026 or email bkkbreastcancer@gmail. that you will help save someone’s life. For is to raise children who will become com. BBCS is based at the Queen Sirikit more information please contact the CBR adults with a highly developed capacity Center, Basement Level, Chulalongkorn on 02-686-2700 or [email protected] or for empathy and connection. It eliminates Hospital, 1873 Rama IV Road, Bangkok. www.centralbloodregister.com. violence as a means for raising children, If you can’t get through on the phone, the and ultimately helps to prevent violence in best way to contact them is by email as it Compassionate Friends society as a whole. is checked several times a day when the A support group for parents and other office is closed or unattended. family members who have lost a child or AP parents are usually in the minority and children either post-natally or pre-natally. may feel different or doubt their parenting There is a monthly support meeting for This group is run by a couple who have ways due to criticism from the mainstream. Breast Cancer Survivors to meet and share lost children and aim to provide a space This group is here to offer a strong their experience. If you are a survivor, where affected family members can share support system for parents, their families, please join. For more information and discuss the grief they are experiencing. 56 • March 2016 Meeting times are arranged based on the family health, education, etc. For more considering hiring a doula, come and availability of those who wish to join and information visit www.ipnthailand.com or meet some of Bangkok’s doulas at a free are held at the home of the organizers contact 081-826-2399 or 093-112-9814or informal gathering on the fourth Saturday in the mid-Sukhumvit area. For more [email protected]. of each month, 10 am to 1 pm at Kuppa, information please contact Nicole on 085- Sukhumvit Soi 16. For more information, 240-3803 or [email protected] or LEAP (Learning and Educational find the Doulas of Bangkok on Facebook, Gregor on [email protected]. Advocacy Program) www.facebook.com/bangkokdoulas or This group serves as a point of contact for email Rasee Govindani on doularasee@ Doulas in Bangkok parents in need of support, referrals and gmail.com. Catherine Dufour: Certified doula and information concerning their children’s breastfeeding educator. Languages: French special needs, including learning Pregnancy and Parenthood and English. Contact: monstersinbkk@ disabilities, developmental delays, Preparation gmail.com sensory integration and autism. For further Bangkok Babywearing Club: This groups Erin Kannon: Certified doula, breastfeeding information email leapbangkok@gmail. aims to help parents and children learn and counselor and childbirth educator. Contact: com. celebrate the joys of babywearing. You are 087-111-7907 [email protected] Pattaya BAMBI Group welcome to try on slings from our sling Florence West: Registered Nurse Midwife If you live in the Pattaya/Rayong area and library or get one-on-one help. For more (Australia). Can provide antenatal, are keen to meet other BAMBI members, information please contact Cari Chou: intrapartum and postpartum education and please contact Angelique/Achumi/Yukaat [email protected]. support including breastfeeding. Contact: [email protected]. Please visit our Facebook Page for updates 095-546-0166, florencewest74@hotmail. on gatherings: Bangkok Babywearing com Pre- and Post-Natal Support Club. Bumps and Babies Bangkok: Wednesdays, Fran Safaie: Certified doula (CBI) 9:30-11:30am. For pregnant women, Birthing Moms Lamaze Childbirth offering pregnancy, labour and postpartum new mothers and their babies, Bumps Preparation Classes by Lamaze Educator support. Contact: 0876131374, fran@ and Babies hold regular presentations on Sujata Gami. Contact email address: bangkokdoula.com, www.bangkokdoula. topics pertaining to pregnancy, childbirth, [email protected] or Phone: com breastfeeding and the postpartum period. 66990523444. Katie Foster: Certified postpartum doula. Bumps and Babies is also home to the Contact: 090-918-2123, doulakatie@ BAMBI library with many titles available Rainbow Room - A Special Needs hotmail.co.uk to rent as well as TENS machine hire is Awareness Center also available. Antique Café, Soi Sawatdi This is a group of parents, family and Michele Blancpain: 1, Off Sukhumvit 31. Suggested donation is friends of individuals with developmental www.micheleblancpain.com B150 baht for BAMBI members and B250 and behavioral special needs, who come Mandy Smith: Birth Doula - certified for non-members. For more info and to together to raise positive awareness through DONA International. Contact: added to the Bumps mailing list for details by offering information, education, 090-918-9001, [email protected] of forthcoming sessions, please contact Fran empowerment and encouragement through Rasee Govindani: DONA-certified birth on [email protected] a “parent-to-parent” model. The Rainbow doula. Languages: English and Thai. Room organises meetings for parents of Contact: [email protected]. website: New Moon Postnatal Support children with Downs Syndrome every 4th http://doularasee.com Group: Wednesday of the month and a meeting for Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30. For all mothers and parents of children with Autism every 2nd International Parenting Network babies. The New Moon Team are there Thursday of the month. They also have (IPN) to support the transition into parenthood an inclusive playgroup every 2nd and 4th This is a parenting networking organization through providing a supportive and Saturday of the month at11/13 Thonglor based in Bangkok, offering a wide range of non-judgemental environment to share 25 Sukhumvit 55 Wattana,Bangkok 10110 parenting support services to parents and birth experiences and feelings about Thailand. For further information and to childcare professionals through events, motherhood. Meetings include a mixture RSVP, please contact The Rainbow Room seminars and workshops. IPN provides of structured sessions with topics related on 02-023-2396 or www.facebook.com/ parents with family-based resources, to evidence based postnatal and baby care specialrainbow. learning opportunities, and effective and some informal sessions. Suggested techniques and strategies designed to donation is B150 for BAMBI members and Single Parents Support Group support the raising of well-balanced B250 for non-members. Antique Café, Soi Are you a single parent who would like children. IPN organizes events that are Sawatdi 1, Off Sukhumvit 31. For more to meet other single parents in Bangkok? held on the last Tuesday of every month info please contact Emma onbumps@ Please join our weekly coffee morning. at The Foreign Correspondents’ Club bambiweb.org Depending on the ages of the children, of Thailand (FCCT), Maneeya Center If you are pregnant and have questions playdates can be organised as well. We (BTS Chidlom exit 2) from 6:30-8:30pm. about birth in Bangkok, need meet on Tuesday or Thursday mornings A guest speaker is invited to speak on recommendations for doctors, hospitals at the Starbucks in Sukhumvit soi 23. a variety of topics related to parenting, and other care providers, or if you are Continued next page
www.bambiweb.org • 57 Support Groups Contact Alan for more information on be able to assist the parents or arrange How do the BAMBI [email protected]. Fathers a meeting. and mothers are all welcome! support groups work? TWINS and Multiples Group Bovy Wongwattanakit Support Group for Parents with This group provides support and contact Support Groups Coordinator Dyslexic Children for parents who have, or are expecting, 087-977-2979 This is a support group for parents twins or multiples, as well as holding with children who are struggling with a weekly playgroup and a monthly [email protected] reading, writing and spelling or those dinner. The group is not just for English who are dyslexic. speaking parents, they can provide Hi I’m Bovy, the support groups coordinator support in French, Spanish, Portuguese, for BAMBI. I’m mother to an 18-month-old Dyslexia has an impact on your life, Thai etc. For more information please daughter, Seychelle. In my professional life, being both a gift and a disability. I operate two interior design firms here in contact Jessica Pelham on 089-685- Bangkok. Without support and early intervention, 9615 or [email protected] it’s negative impact on a child’s life or look for the Bangkok Twins Group BAMBI offers many fantastic support groups can be disastrous. However with page on Facebook. for our members. I have been to a couple of intervention and appropriate support them myself and found them extremely useful. your child can go on to achieve anything Working Mums Being a parent is not an easy job. I would he or she deserves. encourage you to come along if you feel like WOMBLES is a group of working you need any support or even if you don’t, Dyslexia in Thailand provides mothers (paid/charity work) who meet maybe you could help others. information, support and solutions on the first or second Thursday of the to the families of children who are month for dinner around Bangkok. The contact person for each support group struggling with dyslexia. For further is provided on these pages. They all always Pregnant women and mothers thinking welcome you with their big hearts. If you information or solutions contact about returning to the workforce are have any difficulty reaching them, require [email protected] or visit also welcome. If you are interested additional information, or would like to start www.dyslexiainthailand.com. Any in joining, please email wombles@ your own support group, please send me an queries will be forwarded to qualified bambiweb.org or check out further email or message me on my phone anytime. specialised ‘Orton Gillingham’ teachers details on the BAMBI website, www. (there are only 3 in Thailand) who will bambiweb.org.
58 • March 2016 BAMBI Committee 2016
BAMBI is managed by an elected committee of volunteers and all BAMBI members are encouraged to volunteer. Kindly check the BAMBI website for information and email any of the committee members for further details. We are mothers with young babies and/or toddlers; kindly use our phone numbers for urgent matters only.
Patron Non-Voting Positions Mel Habanananda / 087-343-9762 / [email protected] Adoption Support: Sarah Dix / 097-050-6493 / [email protected] Honorary Members Baby Cot and Car Seat Rentals: Azusa Uchida / Paula Young 093-116-8347 / [email protected] Anna Ingham (Bumps and Babies Founder) Kathy Leslie BAMBI News - Editor Assistants: Louisa Perkins / 081-923-3898 / [email protected] Voting Positions Ema Naito-Bhakdi / 089-928-9796 / [email protected] Saara Nordblom / 089-009-2806 / [email protected] Chairwoman: Ravit El-Bachar Daniel Rika Gupta / 088-501-8257/ [email protected] 087-801-6182 / [email protected] Jinae Higashino / 086-353-2730 Secretary: Huong Nguyen Lan BAMBI News - Photo Editor: Azusa Uchida 097-080-0465 / [email protected] 093-116-8347 / [email protected] Treasurer: Megha Jindal BAMBI Pattaya Coordinators: 091-670-4781 / [email protected] Angelique Rault, Azumi Takeuchi and Yuka Tsuda BAMBI News - Editor: Roslyn Uys [email protected] 092-012-7226 / [email protected] Bumps and Babies Assistants: British Club Playgroup Coordinator: Alex Zabukovec Florence West / 095-546-0166 / [email protected] 091-669-1381 / [email protected] Emma Mcnerlin / [email protected] / 061-745-3161 Charities Coordinator: Anne Le Dolley-Teter Bookkeeper: Pey Yeo / 083-084-2508 / [email protected] 098-526-3046 / [email protected] Charities Assistants: Database Coordinator: Gloria Pino Panissara Uvez (Mint) / 081-451-9499 / [email protected] 097-240-8012 / [email protected] Armanda Gaikema-Smit / 095-648-6799 / [email protected] Events Coordinators: Masha Geveling / 095-409-0951 / [email protected] Akiko Takahashi / 080-048-717 / [email protected] E-Newsletter: Anju Moses / 094-3415522 / [email protected] Chiharu Watanabe / 0815575437 / [email protected] Events Assistants: New Members Coordinator: Akiko Cayne Pacharee Pantoomano Pfirsch / 089-139-6800 / [email protected] 080-805-6881 / [email protected] Kathy Drouin-Keith / 086-770-6671 / [email protected] Playgroups Coordinator: Tatiana Skovoronskaia Japanese Coordinator: Akiko Cayne / 080-566-1026 / [email protected] 080-805-6881 / [email protected] PR/Media Coordinator: Simmi Rajktikul Member Benefits Coordinator: VACANT 088-851-1611 / [email protected] New Members Assistant: Vanasobhin (Vana) Kasemsri na Ayutthaya Website Coordinator: Klaus Feilkas 081-855-0871 / [email protected] 089-785-0008 / [email protected] Playgroups Assistant: Donatella Lazzari / Yard Sales Coordinator: Triin Kassis 080-595-0560 / [email protected] 093-131-2849 / [email protected] Promotions Designer: Adi Ayalon / 099-149-4824 / [email protected] Thai Coordinator: Patriya Muneepeerakul / Voting/Exofficio/By-Invitation 081-898-9027 / [email protected] Bumps and Babies Co-Coordinator: Treasurer Assistant: VACANT Fran Safaie / 087-613-1374 / [email protected] Website Assistant: Anju Moses / 094-341-5522 / [email protected] Support Groups Coordinator: Bovy Wongwattanakit 087-977-2979 / [email protected] WOMBLES Coordinators: Allessandra Rodel / 081-424-4220 / [email protected] Bovy Wongwattanakit / 087-977-2979 / [email protected]
BAMBI News is the non-profit monthly newsletter of Bangkok Mothers and Babies International. It is distributed free of charge to members. Editorial contributions from members are welcome. Where possible, please submit articles and photographs by email directly to our BAMBI News editors. Please send editorial enquiries to Roslyn Uys at [email protected].
Advertising enquiries to: Advertising in BAMBI News - Finn Balslev 081-866-2577, 02-943-7166-8 ext. 116, fax 02-943-6618 [email protected]; Piyanan Kalikanon 02-943-7166-8 ext. 108, mb: 089-692-8135 fax 02-943-6618, [email protected]; Nattapat Meesang, 02-943-7166-8 ext. 110, mb: 089-743-4005, fax 02-943-6618 [email protected]. Artwork enquiries to Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. Tel: 02-943-7166 Ext: 106 Dao Fax: 02-943-6618 [email protected]. The views expressed in the articles in this magazine are not necessarily those of BAMBI committee members and we assume no responsibility for them or their effects. www.bambiweb.org • 59