BANGKOK MOTHERS & BABIES INTERNATIONAL, A PROJECT OF CHILDBIRTH AND BREASTFEEDING FOUNDATION THAILAND May 2018
Be
About Play Time www.bambiweb.org
Life by Design. How Intentional The Are You Being? Benefits of Aqua May 2018 Fitness
May 2018
CONTENTS
5 Chairwoman's Letter Welcome to BAMBI 6 Editor’s Corner Bangkok Mothers & Babies International 8 Contributor Profiles
“Support and Features 14 Breaking the Taboo of Talking About Disability in Thailand friendship through 18 Reading Out Loud the common bond of 20 BAMBI Chairwoman’s Report 2017 parenthood 30 BAMBI Treasurer's Report ” 34 Be Serious About Play Time Mel Habanananda 38 Life by Design. How Intentional Are You Being? Departments 6 Kute Kids Love to Play 32 Bumps & Babies: Importance of Nutrition for Moms and Moms-to-be 36 Travel: Unwinding With Nature and Beauty Down Under 37 Creative Kids: Animal Craft Using an Empty Egg Carton We are a group offering support and 40 Fitness: The Benefits of Aqua Fitness companionship to each other through the 42 Recipe: Easy Falafels For a Superhero Type Snack early years of parenting. 43 Health & Safety: Should You Leave Your Children at Home Alone?
We offer prenatal and postnatal support, 44 Fatherhood: Adventures in Mature Fatherhood: Future Plans and regular playgroups, fundraising for charities Relationships and more. If you wish to join, come to our 45 BAMBI's Newest Addition New Members’ Coffee Morning or any other regular BAMBI activity. To volunteer 45 Reading Corner: 8 Great Summer Reads for Kids to serve on the committee, contact any 58 Member Profile:Donna Dias Manuel of the committee members listed in this magazine. Playgroups & Events 10 BAMBI Sathorn Playgroup
BAMBI is a project of the Childbirth & 12 Viola Tunes for New Members Coffee Breastfeeding Foundation of Thailand (CBFT). 12 BAMBINI Pattaya
Mission Statement 23 Pop-up Playgroup at Kids First The CBFT is a non-profit networking and resource center 46 ¡WOMBLES with Sombreros! dedicated to ensuring the best possible start in life for our babies. 47 BAMBI Yard Sale Raises over 24,000 for Second Chance Bangkok We believe that this can best be achieved through: 47 BAMBI Ekkamai Playgroup n Encouraging the appropriate use of technology and medication for all births. References n Promoting breastfeeding for every mother and baby in the community. 46 BAMBI Needs You! n Providing information and training to health professionals involved in maternity care. 48 How to Become a BAMBI Member n Supporting parents through the pregnancy, birth and 48 May Birthdays postnatal period. 48 New Members For more information on CBFT, contact: 49 Member Discounts English speaking, Tel 05-310-4573; [email protected] Thai speaking, Mobile: 081-776-9391; [email protected] or 52 Support Groups [email protected]. Or 54 Playgroup and Activity Listings visit: www.cbfthai.org and www.facebook.com/pages/ 57 BAMBI Team 2018 ChildbirthBreastfeeding-Foundation-of-Thailand 57 Playgroup Leaders
Follow BAMBI on Cover Photographer: Azusa Uchida Facebook: Cover Subject: Melanie E. McDonald facebook.com/BAMBIBangkok Your child will experience unique learning opportunities because we are one of the Nord Anglia Education family of schools, the leading provider of international education.
Your child will get all the benefits of global collaborations with world class organisations like the Juilliard School of the Performing Arts and the Massachusetts Institue of Technology (MIT).
Your child will have the best teachers who encourage them to be ambitious in their learning.
Your child will have all of these advantages and more at Regents International School Pattaya. Join the most sought after boarding and day school on the Eastern Seaboard that believes there are no limits to what your child can achieve.
Come and experience the difference for yourself.
Visit our website to book a tour or call +66 (0) 93 135 7736. chairwoman's letter Dear Members,
Welcome to your May edition of BAMBI News. It’s hard to believe that we are al- most halfway through 2018 already. The theme of this month’s magazine is ‘get Wserious about play’. Sometimes as busy parents we can get consumed with our family’s schedules and commitments and forget the importance of carving out some time for ourselves, to kick back and have fun. The recent Songkran celebrations with water fights on the street was the perfect opportunity to unleash our inner child and indulge in some purely joyful fun, though I will never understand why the water must be ice cold!
It's important too that our kids see us as fun people — they learn so much more from what we do than what we say. So being willing to step outside our comfort Emma and Akiko, Photo by Azusa Uchida zones and prioritize fun and exploration is good parenting behaviour to model, and also lets us act like big kids once in a thrill rides, but I did it and had so much loose and have fun, so make some space while, so everyone wins. I was reminded fun that I queued up and did it again right for play! The chores can always wait. of this recently on a trip to Disneyland in after. Hong Kong when I was gently persuaded Enjoy May! by my son to ride the Space Mountain Sometimes we can surprise ourselves with roller coaster. I must say I’m not a fan of what we are capable of when we let Emma, BAMBI Vice Chairwoman
www.bambiweb.org • 5 editor’s corner Dear Readers,
Oh, how time flies and it’s May! For read during your travels. our family, we’ve just started off a new school year so I’m hoping my kids will Kids’ favorite play space, pools, are Osettle down soon with their new class- a perfect place to keep fit in this hot es and teachers, while many of you country, as you can learn in ‘The are already contemplating the last Benefits of Aqua Fitness’. And revisit Ema - Deputy Editor, BAMBI News weeks of the term. the benefits of ‘Reading Out Loud’ — Photo Credit: Azusa Uchida which as far as I’m concerned counts Azusa — for their ideas and sharp This month’s BAMBI News looks to as a (mercifully quieter) ‘play’ activity. eye in bringing together this May ‘Be Serious about Play’ — and we’re BAMBI News, and the regular com- not just talking for kids! Having fun Also in this issue: One mom shares mittee contributors for working around is important for grown-ups too, as advice on how to find the right school the Songkran holiday schedule. we’re reminded in ‘Be Serious About for a child with disabilities, in ‘Break- Play Time’. As for our little ones, we ing the Taboo of Talking About Dis- And as always, our many thanks to all encourage them to develop indepen- ability in Thailand’. And we have a the contributors who share their wis- dence through play, but ‘Should You lovely piece ‘Life by Design. How In- dom and hearts with us readers! Leave Your Children at Home Alone?’ tentional Are You Being?’ that invites gives us suggestions on how to ap- you to stop living on autopilot. We always welcome contributions, so proach the next step in encouraging if you have something to share, you’re independence in our growing kids in a Want to know all that BAMBI’s been warmly invited to email Donna at edi- safe manner. up to in 2017 on your behalf, and [email protected]. 日本語記事も随 what’s in store for the rest of 2018? 時募集していますので、お気軽に Travel is serious play. If you’re mak- Then read the 2017 Chairwoman’s [email protected]へご連絡 ing plans now for the summer holi- Report, as well as the Treasurer’s ください！ days and are considering Australia, Report. don’t miss ‘Unwinding With Nature Signing off for Donna and me, and Beauty Down Under’. And check Thanks to the editing team — Jinae, out some great children’s books to Hina, Abby, Rika, Ashima, Rie, and Ema, Deputy Editor Kute Kids Love to Play Haretaka Gurvi Send us your high-resolution photos to be published in our next issues! Email your favorite photo with the child(ren)’s name(s) to: Yaari [email protected].
Upcoming themes for Kute Kids: Noah Noah June - Kute Kids & Their Best Friends July - Kute Kids Love Their Mums and Grandmums (three-generation pics especially welcome!) Ezra Riaan Tommy
6 • May 2018 KIS contributor profiles Kakanang Jantarapagdee, Andy Duckworth Carolina Herrera M.D., Andy is from Carolina - founder of Dr. Kakanang obtained Huddersfield, UK. A the Take time to BE her diplomate with highly experienced YOU practice – a the Thai Board of aquatics and fitness practice designed to Pediatrics and Thai instructor with a 20-year help women live more Board of Developmental background in the sport authentic and fulfilling and Behavioral Pediatrics, with and leisure industry, he has taught all lives. Originally from Colombia, she advanced specialty training in the over the world from the UK to Doha and grew up in London and now lives in physical, emotional, behavioral and now Thailand. He has been in Bangkok Bangkok with her husband and kids. social development of children. She for 7 months working for Bangkok specializes in evaluating children with Dolphins as a Swimming Teacher/ Karin Biran concerns related to Attention Deficit Coach, and more recently as an Aqua Karin is a nutritionist Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism Fit instructor. R.D., B.Sc, M.AN. and developmental delays of behavioral She has been working problems. Donatella Lazzari with patients in all age Donatella is a mother Roma R-Steffen ranges suffering from of three, dedicated eating disorders, body Roma is an 'Eduprenuer', wife, arts and crafts combining a passion images issues, health-related problems teacher, dormant and weight loss. Karin specializes in for education with qualified architect, entrepreneurship in eating behavioral therapy for the whole aspiring “mumpreneur”, family. her career of over 15 enthusiast photographer, designer and years. Roma has owned cook! 360° creative Donatella is part and managed successful schools and Rachel E. Szewczuk Italian part Thai and arrived from London Rachel is an art businesses in the USA, Africa, Asia and 10 years ago. Holding possibly one of Europe, and has been a teacher and therapist, art educator the longest-standing BAMBI membership and professional artist college/corporate lecturer, teaching numbers, she has always been proud to students ages 4 to 72. She is a strong living in Bangkok. be part of this extraordinary and always She was born and believer in lifelong learning. Roma inspiring diverse group of women. resides in Bangkok with her family of 6, raised in Philadelphia, teaches at an international school and Pennsylvania. Her main approaches to Frederique-Ann Lock lectures for an online college. art therapy include Positive Art Therapy, Frederique worked for CBT and Person Centred Therapy. Joel Farnworth large food companies Rachel also works with domestic violence Joel is a mature dad before moving to survivors in Vietnam. who juggles time with his Bangkok with her children and providing husband and two young Stephen Murgatroyd consulting services on children. Since the birth Stephen has been a HR and Leadership of her children, she has transformed teacher at Bangkok capability development. her passion for cooking to create Patana School for 18 www.hrdev.org provides more info or wholesome, flavoursome food for her years and is currently contact [email protected]. children and introduce them to a wide array of flavours. Find her on Instagram: a teacher-librarian 'frederiquesfood' and 'Babyisafoodie', working across the and blog: frederiquesfood.com. Primary and Secondary Libraries. Reading has been a passion for him since his childhood, so working in the Judy King library is a real joy! Stephen would love Judy has always been to share the pleasure and benefits of fascinated by the power reading stories to children with as many of the mind. She is a people as possible. certified trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy™ Nori Brixen and Coaching, and Nori is a blogger, Master Practitioner of Hypnosis, and photographer and mum brings these transformative tools to of two sets of twin boys, Bangkok through one-to-one coaching Tai, Logan, Drake & sessions, seminars and training. Judy Kiva. She has traveled aims to assist people in experiencing to 100+ countries more of what they are capable of, in all across all 7 continents. Follow her important areas of life. For more info: travels at www.twotwinstwavel.com and [email protected] or pictures on Instagram @twotwinsmum www.judykingfitness.com
8 • May 2018 A school where your child has Room to Grow
With 4 world-class schools in Thailand – St. Andrews Dusit, Sukhumvit 107, Sathorn and Green Valley – we offer your child a world of opportunity in education.
4 Convenient Locations
Eastern Seaboard Bangkok Green Valley | Ages 2 - 18 Sathorn | Ages 2 - 11 Tel: +66 (0) 3803 0701 Tel: +66 (0) 2632 1995 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.standrewsgreenvalley.com W: www.standrewssathorn.com
Bangkok Bangkok Sukhumvit 107 | Ages 2 - 18 Dusit | Ages 2 - 11 Tel: +66 (0) 2393 3883 Tel: +66 (0) 2668 6231 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.standrewssukhumvit.com W: www.standrewsdusit.com
Book your personal tour www.standrews-schools.com BAMBI Sathorn Playgroup
Text by Bao Minh Lam / Photos by Azusa Uchida
Thank you for joining our monthly playgroup at La Petite Ecole in Sathorn. It is always wonderful to see toddlers enjoying the greenery, sensory activities, sand pit, mud Tkitchens and outdoor water play area in the school’s garden surrounded by trees.
BAMBI SATHORN PLAYGROUP: Every second Monday of the month, 10am-12pm. For children aged 0-5. La Petite Ecole, 27/5 Soi Yen Akat 2/1 Sathorn Yannawa. NO PARKING available. Donation per family: 100 for members and 300 for non- members. For more info: sathornplaygroup@ bambiweb.org
10 • May 2018
Viola Tunes for New Members Coffee Text by Uta Mori / Photos by Azusa Uchida
Thank you all for coming to the New Members Coffee Morning at IPC International Kindergarten & Nursery on 28th March. Our special guest, violist Ms. Tomoe Kawabata, played famous songs tsuch as "Amazing Grace" and "Let It Go” for the members. Both parents and children fully enjoyed listening to the beautiful sound of the viola. Thank you Ms. Tomoe for your wonderful show! New Members Coffee is held on the last Wednesday of the month, 9:30-11am, at various venues. New and prospective members are welcome! For more info, contact: [email protected]. 最近入会された方・入会を検討されてる方のために、毎月最後の水曜日午 前９時半から１１時に開催。お子さんもご一緒にどうぞ。入場料無料、当 日の入会も受け付けています。日本語でのお問い合わせもOKです。
BAMBINI Pattaya Text and photos by Rani Gulati
If you don't smile, I'll give you one of mine :) Our BAMBINI children are growing up too quickly. Mommies want them to stay little ’cause they are only little babies for a short while.
IWe had a pleasant Monday morning watching their wide smiles and hearing their funny noises.
Do join our BAMBINI group, especially for newborns and babies up to eighteen months!
Follow BAMBI Pattaya’s Facebook page, @BAMBIPattaya, for updates. For any queries, please send us a message via Facebook. 12 • May 2018
feature Breaking the Taboo of Talking About Disability in Thailand
Text and Photo by Roma Steffen
What factors should parents consider when se- lecting an educational in- stitution for their children with special needs, devel- opmental delays or learn- ing disabilities? Mother of three and a teacher herself, Roma shares her own ex- periences with schools in Bangkok.
From the time my daughters were born She was very helpful by providing us closed doors in private atmosphere is prematurely, I knew it would be a chal- with “insider’s feedback and tips” that when they open up and talk. I recom- lenging road ahead. I would like to share she collected from parents on certain mend parents to network with other Fthe discoveries I have made along the schools. The first thing my husband and parents and try to get their real opinion way, from infancy to childhood, about I learnt is in Thailand, it is extremely dif- and talk about their worst experiences. disabilities and learning disorders. ficult to get true reviews on schools or Gather all the feedback and try to make to hear parents’ true opinions. Google your personal opinion. My twins had just turned 3 when we got any school in the US and read their re- the news that we will be assigned to a views, it will give good insight on what An up-to-date assessment is a require- diplomatic post in Bangkok. We got a parents and students think. In Thailand, ment to pursue any of the programs for list of international schools in Bangkok most schools don’t have reviews in so- children with disabilities. In Bangkok, from the Embassy. We went online and cial media or internet, and even if they there are few independent places that started the two-month research on find- do, they are very inadequate and do can do the evaluation and assessment. ing the best schools for our children. For not reflect the reality. Even now after Unfortunately, there are only a hand- the older one, it was very quick and being here for some time and having ful of specialists that can do it and easy. For the twins, we had to get in made some new friends, I still find it sometimes one has to wait few months touch with a specialist in Japan who difficult to hear parents publicly speak- for an appointment. It is also quite ex- coordinates and refers American chil- ing what they do not like about schools pensive to get an assessment done in dren with disabilities to schools in Asia. and how they get treated. Only behind Thailand. 14 • May 2018 There are two types of schools in Bang- make sure that they do have the experi- this might be an option worth consider- kok for children with disabilities. The first, ence and qualification for teaching early ing especially during the early years. such as The Village, is intended for chil- years and special needs. Also, ask the However, homeschooling is a decision dren with severe disabilities, where they principal about staff fluctuation. Don’t that influences the whole family setting are mostly taught life skills. The second forget that the people working with your and requires adaptations. Do not rely type of schools promote full integration. child will have permanent life impact on on one persons or doctor’s opinion. Re- The children attend regular class, but your child. search, learn and ask for at least two they get additional help and assistance more opinions. Then make your call. based on their individual needs. The big- When it comes to finding the right learn- gest challenge in these schools is to get ing environment for a child with disabili- My situation with my twins is an ongo- a place. Waiting lists are long. When ties, there definitely are more options. ing journey. They learn and I learn some- talking about fully integrated schools in Some families may choose to put the thing new every day. They are 4 now Bangkok, one has to differentiate be- child in regular school and sign up for and doing great. We have achieved so tween long-established schools like St supplementary, afterschool therapies at much with practice and are working on Andrews, which has one of the top in- a learning center such as ATOC- Acorns full school integration by the time they tegrational programs in Bangkok, and to Oaks Center. Nevertheless, bear in are 6. The message I would like to send smaller international kindergartens, that mind traveling time and the student limit. to parent’s is don’t live in denial. Go often promise that they can integrate a I have also spoken to few Thai local online, network with parents or ask your student with disabilities, but it is often not parents who have children with slight pediatrician about a list of age-appropri- the case. Parents should do thorough re- ADHD, autism and dyslexia and they ate milestones. Review those milestones search before settling on a school and were put on medication immediately by at home, on your own, by watching and explore whether a more established, local doctors. They were never offered observing your child. Children act dif- full-sized school or a smaller, local kin- the opportunity to participate in therapy. ferently in a medical setting than back dergarten/school would serve their child at home. Ask for at least two qualified better. One thing I have learned in Bang- Another option for families is home- opinions. Do not take one doctor’s rec- kok is that a high tuition fee does not nec- schooling. In the US, there is an online ommendation for granted. Do not sit essarily promise the best-qualified staff school available free of charge for some and think it will be better or the child will for your child. Hence, don’t be afraid to states. Having seen and consulted a lot grow out of it. It is time to be proactive, ask for staff qualification. Double check, of families with children with disabilities, and parents do it best.
www.bambiweb.org • 15
feature Reading out Loud By Stephen Murgatroyd
The power of reading stories aloud to children is not only important for building vocabulary but also introduces them to aspects of life they are unlikely to experience themselves.
How many of us, as parents, have read retain more information, and also gain UNESCO stated that “Literacy is a foun- to our children from a very young age, a greater understanding when they hear dation to build a more sustainable future often from birth? I suspect it could well someone read to them than when they for all.” The world would indeed be a Hbe the great majority of us. However, read it quietly themselves. There is also much better place if the children enter- how many of us continue to read to/ the ‘specialness’ of being able to spend ing the adult realm were widely readers with our children once they are confi- time together, sharing the ins and outs who read for the sheer pleasure of pick- dent (independent) readers themselves? of the latest favourite book and discuss- ing up a book. I suspect the numbers are lower than we ing the wide variety of issues raised from would imagine. In fact, a 2013 poll within the pages. There are several ways to engage chil- of 1,200 Australian parents reportedly dren and teenagers in books using the found that 40% of parents with toddlers Another aspect of reading out loud to spoken word. Audiobooks on CDs, via or preschool children read to their chil- children is that you can expose them to Podcasts, or stories read by famous peo- dren every day. However, this figure books that are beyond their age-relat- ple that can be watched on YouTube, dropped to 23% for early primary chil- ed reading level, outside their comfort allow children and teenagers access dren and 4% for children aged 9-12. zone, allowing them to investigate new to stories other than through the actual printed page. Getting the entire family to listen in to a story and then possibly sharing thoughts about it can also be a great way to spend more quality time with family too.
Finally, I would like to finish with a quote from Mem Fox, a well-known Australian children’s author, who says about young children on the first steps of their read- ing journey: “Read at least three stories a day: it may be the same story three times. Children need to hear a thousand stories before they can begin to learn to read. Or the same story a thousand times!” Now that is a whole lot of books, an enormous amount of time invested and a long time spent sharing special time together. Just like any financial in- vestment you make, it is the long-term gain you are looking at, so go on, take Photo Courtesy: Bangkok Patana School a risk and continue to do something that We may all understand the importance areas of interest and introducing them to you and your children will both enjoy of reading stories to very young children aspects of life they are unlikely to expe- and benefit from long after you think they so that they are exposed to new vocabu- rience themselves – all of which helps have grown out of it – because, actually, lary and have the reading ‘modelled’ and encourages them to become the true growing out of having a story read to to them along with sharing new worlds global citizens we want them to be. After them could not be further from the truth and investigating and solving real (and all, reading, as a key part of their liter- and all you need to find is some time to out of this world) problems. Studies ary development is massively important. spare and a good book to read. have shown that children and students Back in 2016, the Director-General of
References: 1. www.scholastic.com/readingreport/reading-aloud.htm 2. www.smh.com.au/national/education/reading-aloud-has-huge-benefits-to-children-but-many-parents-stop-too-early-20151123-gl5v85.html 3. memfox.com/for-parents/for-parents-ten-read-aloud-commandments/ 18 • May 2018 A4 page (210 x 297 mm)
New Primary School Campus Opening August 2018
Visit our Now open for applications Open for Early Years 1 to Year 4 Houses
Call Khun Nattika on 02 203 1222 or email today [email protected] Visit our website http://city.shrewsbury.ac.th Follow the Shrewsbury success story Join our Site Opening Tour th @SHBcitycampus on 5 June Applications will be closing soon for Exceptional People August 2018 Outstanding Opportunities
Academic Excellence BOOK YOUR VISIT www.bambiweb.org • 19 Chairwoman’s Report 2017 Chairwoman’s Report 2017
Text by Akiko Cayne and Emma McNerlin, Photos by Azusa Uchida
BAMBI looks back at the previous calendar year and remembers all that has been done and accomplished. Here is a summary of our activities and achievements in 2017 and also a small look into our plans for 2018.
An important update: Many of you may remember that we started 2015 with a shocking find, discovering that, for several years, money had been systematically and fraudulently removed from BAMBI’s bank account by a former and highly trusted member of the BAMBI Committee. The case has since been in the hands of the Childbirth & Breastfeeding Foundation’s (CBFT) lawyers and going through due legal process in the criminal court. CBFT and BAMBI Committee are pleased to announce that the outcome of the criminal proceedings in summer of 2017, secured the return of 5 million baht, a conservative and best estimate of what had been taken fraudulently by the person in question. The BAMBI committee plan to use these returned funds both to enhance the services we provide to our members and to also expand our support of good causes through BAMBI charities for projects identified throughout Thailand.
In 2017 we continued to bring to you our As BAMBI membership continues to October 2017 saw the trialling of bi- Bumps & Babies sessions, playgroups in- grow, we acknowledge and appreci- monthly, weekend Bumps & Babies cluding Small World, yard sales, events, ate everyone who has joined BAMBI this meet-up at Steps at Theera, due to re- activities for older kids, new members year, and everyone who has renewed quests from our working mummies, al- icoffee mornings, pop-up playgroups, their membership with us. We thank you though attendance for these events were WOMBLES dinners and BAMBI Pattaya for your continued support of BAMBI and variable. activities. look forward to serving you in the up- coming year. In December 2017 Bumps & Babies We opened weekly playgroups and spread beyond Sukhumvit to serve our Bumps & Babies at new locations includ- Bumps & Babies Sathorn parents and opened Bumps & ing a hotel and restaurants, offered an Babies Sathorn meetup with Doula Yaz increased number of playgroups, pop- 2017 saw continued growth and activ- at Jumping Beans Café. up playgroups and events, and thus saw ity for the Bumps & Babies Team as they growth in the number of our membership took steps to improve services offered to Other special activities: as well as the numbers of our volunteers. pregnant and postnatal mums in Bang- • Swap meet May 2017; Unswapped kok. Bumps & Babies welcomed help items were donated to Second In order to enhance the benefits of a from new volunteers, Lia and Yaz. Chance Bangkok BAMBI membership, most of our week- • Bumps & Babies session with Grace end and special one-off events, such as In total, the number of sessions offered the Sleep Trainer, June 2017 drew pop-up playgroups, Splash Party and increased from 91 sessions in 2016 to over 50 participants to an over- Christmas Party, have free admission for 141 sessions in 2017. Total attendance whelmed Antique Café! members. And to foster a strong team continued to grow this year: from 932 • Beyond Boobs Coffee Morning, spirit and to give back to our amazing session participants in 2016 to 1,786 October 2017. Donations from the volunteer families, we introduced bian- session participants in 2017. morning raised over 7,000 for Can- nual volunteer appreciation events exclu- cer Research Thailand, matched by sively for families of BAMBI volunteers. The New Moon Weekly Postnatal BAMBI. The session helped to launch Group that began in 2016 is still going Beyond Boobs, a new support group We keep growing and becoming more strong. In February 2017, Bumps added for those affected by breast cancer. fun and energetic each year, thanks to a regular baby massage session to the • The Bumps team continued to meet the enthusiastic volunteers and their fami- New Moon schedule which has been with Samitivej Hospital to offer feed- lies. We couldn’t do all that we do with- extremely popular. back from our members in the hopes out the dedication, energy and commit- of improving the quality of maternity ment of our wonderful team of committee Due to increased popularity at Small care offered there; this is still ongoing. members and wider volunteer family. World, BAMBI’s only playgroup for We thank you all for making BAMBI the 0-18-month olds, additional sessions Plans for Bumps & Babies in 2018 great organization that it is. were added, with Small World sessions • The Bumps & Babies team will con- on both Mondays and Thursdays. tinue to provide support at Antique 20 • May 2018 Outgoing Committee
Café and Jumping Bean Café, but • The Bumps team plans to restock the the various playgroups in Bangkok due to lack of demand, the Sun- BAMBI Library with more relevant and throughout the year. day morning meet-ups at Steps with recent titles in the coming year. We Theera will not continue. will source these secondhand where In December 2017, both Riverside • Small World playgroups will move possible to reduce waste and keep (Shrewsbury International school) and under the management of the Play- costs down. A budget for this restock Little Green Thumbs (IPC Green Inter- groups Team so as to allow the has yet to be agreed at committee. national Kindergarten) playgroups had Bumps coordinators to focus on the their last session. Riverside Playgroup core Bumps & Babies offering of Playgroups was closed because the attendees were pregnancy and postpartum support. those that went to the regular one run by • At the request of Antique Café, in By the end of 2017, BAMBI had running Shrewsbury prior to it being a BAMBI 2018 Bumps & Babies will now eleven steady and popular playgroups in playgroup. This playgroup has reverted be on Tuesday mornings and New Bangkok, including five (with *) that were back to its original non-BAMBI school Moon will be on Wednesdays, due opened in the second half of 2017: playgroup. Little Green Thumbs closed to staffing constraints at the café. • Bang Na Playgroup (Berkeley Inter- because we were unable to find volun- • At the end of March, we bid farewell national School) teers to lead the playgroup after a six- to Fran Safaie, Bumps & Babies Co- • Bearing Playgroup* (St Andrews month search. ordinator for over four years and the 107 International School) beating heart of BAMBI Bumps. We • British Club Playgroup (British Club) In December, we opened Small World thank Fran for her dedication and • Daddy’s playgroup (Bright Skies In- Sathorn due to expressed interest from compassion to all the Bumps & Babies ternational School) members attending playgroups in Sath- mums over the past four years and • Ekkamai Playgroup (Bright Skies Inter- orn area. Small World Sukhumvit will in wish her well in her new endeavors. national School) 2018 be separated from Bumps & Ba- • From April 2018, the structure of • Little Birds* (Blue Parrot Cafe) bies and both Small World playgroups Bumps & Babies sessions will change. • Novotots* (Novotel Sukhumvit 20) will be under the management of the It will become more informal network- • Sukhumvit 31 Playgroup (First Steps Playgroups Coordinator. ing meetups, rather than formal infor- International Pre-School) mation presentations. The team will • Sathorn Playgroup* (La Petite Ecole All BAMBI playgroups would not still run the meetings and be available International School) happen without our busy playgroup for advice and support. This returns • Sawatdi Playgroup (IPC International volunteers. To thank them and so that Bumps & Babies to its original format, Kindergarten) they could exchange information, four which aims to provide support and • Small World Sathorn* (Jumping Playgroup Leaders Breakfasts were friendship to pregnant women and Beans Cafe) organized for all playgroup volunteers new mothers in Bangkok. • In total, 5,030 families attended (28 persons).
New Committee Elected
www.bambiweb.org • 21 Continued from page 21 page and also the local Facebook BI Activities can become as popular page Pattaya Little Monkeys to call as BAMBI Playgroups. Plans for Playgroups in 2018 on members and the local community • We also want to create a clear iden- • During 2017, we noticed that the to donate a gift-wrapped clothes box tity for Activities (Activity Groups) that amount of food provided for snack for Christmas for underprivileged kids is distinct from Playgroups. time was inadequate in some play- of HAVEN Center. We donated three • Activities in the pipeline include dra- groups. We altered the registration clothes boxes on behalf of BAMBI Pat- ma and music adventures, yoga for sheet to record how many children taya and collected 40 boxes from our kids, dance, and world explorers. attend, and hope that this information BAMBI members, non-members and lo- Others in development are art, mu- will allow us to plan for better qual- cal community people. sic, basketball, creative workshop ity as well as adequate quantity of for kids, reading and storytelling, snacks at every playgroup. Plans for Pattaya in 2018 science club, magic and illusion, in- • We are continually looking at open- • We will be looking for volunteers line skating, animation for kids, mak- ing new playgroups and improv- to join the team as some volunteers ers club, and tennis. ing our current ones to adapt to the moved away. To increase atten- • The BAMBI Activities team welcomes demographics of our membership, dance, we plan to distribute flyers in suggestions to improve existing activi- especially in locations that our mem- different languages at various interna- ties and ideas for new activities and bers live and on days that BAMBI tional schools in the Pattaya area to activity leaders. We are also look- does not have any playgroup. stimulate interest among mums who ing for more volunteers to add to our have preschoolers or newborns in team. BAMBI Pattaya attending BAMBI playgroups when their older kids are in school. We are Events BAMBI Pattaya expanded its offering of also thinking of starting a Daddies’ playgroups to every Monday: at Holi- Playgroup but will gather more infor- In 2017, BAMBI events were limited by day Inn on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of mation first as most daddies are usu- the continuing observance of the official the month, and, since October 2017, ally available on weekends. mourning period for the late King His BAMBIni playgroup on the 2nd and 4th Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. This Mondays at Miss T’s Cupcake Shop. Activities for Older Kids included the cancellation of the BAMBI The latter playgroup is specifically for annual Halloween Party in October for babies, newborn to 18 months. BAMBI Activities are different from play- the second year in a row. groups in several ways. They are for The BAMBI Pattaya team also orga- older kids, they have a theme and are The BAMBI Events team did, however, nized other activities including a Mum more structured than playgroups and organize three events in 2017. In Janu- and Baby Yoga Session, a Halloween each activity is once a month. Some ary, a New Year Riverside Fair and launch for BAMBIni playgroup and a activities also have a limit to the number Bazaar was held at Shrewsbury Interna- baby and toddler book sale, and the of participants depending on the venue tional School, which had 150 families ever-popular Christmas Party. size and type of activity. For this rea- in attendance. son, registration is required for BAMBI The charity focus remains strong Activities. April 2017 saw the return of the BAMBI with the Pattaya team, with a total of Splash Party at British Club. Thanks to 9,344 cash donated to The Hand In 2017, all BAMBI activities were well- our volunteers and sponsors, 88 families to Hand Foundation, a local Christian attended and there were requests by enjoyed a great party and performances organization that aims to protect those parents for more. In June, BAMBI started with hula and ukulele. in need, regardless of their race, age offering Cooking Class, its third activity or religion. It provides services such as and held five sessions in 2017. BAMBI In December BAMBI partnered with helping the poor and underprivileged Activities finished 2017 with three activi- IPC International Kindergarten to host a acquire legal documentation, offering ties for kids 3-6 years old: Football, Ex- Christmas Party and Tree Lighting Cere- them food, clothing and education. plorers Club, and Cooking Class. mony. The event was organized at short notice but was a wonderful success with The Pattaya team also supported HA- Plan for Activities in 2018 152 families in attendance, lots of fun VEN Center and started the Clothes • In 2018, BAMBI Activities aims to festive activities and a visit from Santa Box Donation Drive for underprivileged add at least four more activities and James from Bangkok Dolphins. kids for Christmas. We posted informa- expand the age range up to 8 years tion on our BAMBI Pattaya Facebook old. In the long term, we hope BAM- 22 • May 2018 Pop-up Playgroup at Kids First
By Vana Kasemsri / Photos by Mao Sano
On Saturday, March 31st, BAMBI children were treated to a morning of exciting sporting activities, geared to help move those little legs. Kids were divided into teams ac- cording to their age group. There were no major winners Oor losers, but definitely lots of cheers and laughter. Despite the unexpected late morning rain shower, the kids had fun, made lots of new friends and enjoyed the yummy lunch.
Thank you Kids First International Kindergarten for opening your doors to welcome BAMBI families and for giving us such a big feast.
www.bambiweb.org • 23 Continued from page 22 options for weekend activities. The most A total of two volunteers served as Edi- popular Pop-up was held at NIST and tor, five as Assistant Editors, two as Jap- In addition to these events, BAMBI also was attended by 110 families. anese Editors and one as Photo Editor had a presence at the 2017 Living in throughout the year; at least four of these Bangkok Fair in February 2017 at Bum- A team of three volunteers were in charge volunteers have been with the magazine rungrad Hospital. of organizing both monthly New Mem- for nearly two years so we are happy to bers Coffee Mornings and monthly pop- have a strong and steady team. Plans for Events in 2018 up events. The team visited the potential In January 2018, the Events team held schools, formalizing the agreement on Plans for BAMBI News magazine in 2018 a Charity Concert to celebrate 35 years set-ups, creating of PR and media materi- • This year we have an overarching of BAMBI. The event was the first of its als, and finding volunteers to welcome theme for the magazine which is kind and a big success, raising funds for and register members on site. based on the New York Times Best- the Immanuel String Orchestra based seller, ‘The Happiness Project’. Using in Khlong Toei, and welcoming almost Pop-up and New Members Plans for the basic framework, we have tried 100 families. 2018 to include articles that go beyond • We continue to see Pop-up Play- parenting and include more self-care, There are three events scheduled for groups as beneficial for our mem- relationship building, and personal this year bers. We plan to offer pop-up events growth features. • Splash Party, May 2018 at Wells in schools in areas that we have not International Kindergarten yet covered, in order to assess wheth- • We intend to include a Kids Speak • Halloween Party, venue and date TBC er we can also expand our member- section allowing the older kids who • Annual Christmas Party TBC ship recruitment and services in those attend BAMBI activities to share their areas, such as Sathorn, Nichida and experiences with us, thus enabling This year we are also planning the return Huay Kwang. Other options may in- a feedback process, as well as a of BAMBI Bazaar, most probably at the clude tennis schools, art schools, etc. special book reading corner that end of autumn. provides our readers with book re- • We will continue to hold morning cof- views or lists of good books both for New Members Coffee fees for new members once a month. children and parents. We also look Morning Since several regular playgroups are forward to making the magazine ar- held on Mondays, the coffee morn- ticles more accessible, when the new We reduced the twice-a-month new mem- ings will be on the last Wednesday BAMBI website is launched. bers coffee mornings to once a month, of the month. We will continue to ro- due to our team’s increased responsibili- tate between Sukhumvit and Sathorn Charities ties to organize pop-up playgroup events. areas, as most of our new members With an increase in the number of regular are travelling from these two areas. This has been an exciting year for the weekly playgroups available, almost ev- Charities team, with multiple projects in ery day of the week, our new members BAMBI News Magazine Bangkok and greater Thailand support- were also much busier than ever! ed through money donations, exposure Eleven issues (including a July/August at our events or in the magazine, or do- We concentrated on doing each month- combined issue) of BAMBI News maga- nations of items such as clothing or gifts ly coffee morning well, by offering in- zine were published this year for delivery for children. teresting activities, speakers or new to members’ homes and for distribution at meeting places. We moved the coffee BAMBI playgroups and events. Most of All the identified charities work with mornings to schools other than IPC, i.e.: the PDF versions were available for down- vulnerable children and families in Thai- Pallies and La Petite Ecole, and rotated load by members via the website, and land, following our aim to ‘act local’ to between Sukhumvit and Sathorn areas. some articles were shared on Facebook. support those less fortunate in the com- munities that make BAMBI families so Pop-up Playgroups Over 50 volunteer writers contributed welcome in Thailand. to the magazine over the year, and the It was a busy year for Pop-up Play- works of four photographers graced the March 2017: Yard Sale in aid of groups, with nine-weekend Pop-up Play- covers. Topics covered included pre-and Operation Smile Thailand groups held from March to December postnatal issues, education, health, reci- BAMBI teamed up with the Year 12 IB 2017. This format has proved very pop- pes, fitness, crafts and activities, parent- Students of St Andrews 107 for an alfres- ular both with hosting schools and with ing advice, travel and more, with some co yard sale on 4th March, with 18 ven- young families, who now have greater translated into Japanese. dors selling various pre-loved items. Two 24 • May 2018
Continued from page 24 victims of rape and abuse or who have The remaining donated items were used left home and helps them to care for their for Christmas presents for children of tables managed by the school children babies and make positive steps towards the Mercy Centre and the Rangsit Baby and parents support group were solely an independent future. Home, donated to refugees in Bangkok, dedicated to charity. All proceeds from or to be used as prizes for the Central this table, doubled up by BAMBI for a In August 2017, we provided 30,000 Thailand Mission Christmas party. total of 36,000, were given to Opera- financial support and donations of baby Total donation: 50,000 tion Smile Thailand, which provides free goods from BAMBI Bumps mums to fund surgeries to repair cleft lip, cleft palate the annual Mother’s Day “Dream Big” Christmas 2017: The Giving Tree and other facial deformities for children event. This provided children’s entertain- Foundation throughout the country. Our donation ment and spot prizes for the teams who For the Christmas season 2017, BAMBI funded one full cleft lip and palate re- created posters celebrating the impor- teamed up with the Giving Tree Foun- pair and ongoing speech therapy and tance of setting goals and building self- dation and Terre Karen to produce gift support, transforming the life of a child esteem. bags for children in Karen villages in and family. Total donation: 30,000 Northern Thailand. BAMBI families were Total donation: 36,000 matched to an individual child to make October 2017: Bumps & Babies Breast the gift bag specific to their wishes and May 2017: Always Reading Caravan Cancer Coffee Morning needs and we were delighted that over at BAMBI Sawatdi Playgroup New Moon turned pink on 17th Octo- 80 families were so generous in donat- Yoshimi Horiuchi is a blind bookaholic ber to mark Breast Cancer Awareness ing these presents to the children. In ad- from Japan-based in Northern Thailand Month. The usually popular weekly dition to this, BAMBI used charity dona- who founded Always Reading Caravan, Bumps & Babies gave way to a charity tions and funds to provide another 50 an organization committed to promoting coffee morning at Antique Cafe to launch gift bags. the joy of reading and learning in Thai- Beyond Boobs, a new breast cancer sup- Total donation (cost for bags/transport): land. Yoshimi visited BAMBI Sawatdi port group for sufferers and survivors of 57,647.25 Playgroup and talked about the impor- breast cancer. The new group has been tance of reading to children. There was founded by two young breast cancer sur- Plans for Charities for 2018 also a book sale by Second-hand English vivors, Rasee Govindani and Maria Vil- A number of worthy causes and proj- Books for Kids on that day. Ten percent lalobos, who both spoke candidly and ects have been identified by our BAMBI of book sale proceeds and donations to very movingly about their experience of Charity Coordinator. We have already the BAMBI playgroup were donated to breast cancer and the support they hope raised and donated 100,000 from one of Always Reading Caravan's proj- to offer other women in Bangkok who our BAMBI Birthday Charity Concert to ects, "Early Childhood Literacy". receive a breast cancer diagnosis. Immanuel String Orchestra to purchase Total donation: 5,100 Total donation: 15,000 new instruments. Yard Sales will con- tinue, with the same committee member June 2017: BAMBI Bumps & Babies November 2017: Yard Sale in aid of now organizing Yard Sales and leading Swap Meet Central Thailand Mission BAMBI’s charity efforts. On Saturday 3rd June, BAMBI Bumps The charity table was once again a & Babies held its first ever Swap Meet, huge success at the BAMBI Yard Sale, Media where families had the opportunity to with CAS students from St Andrews In- swap baby clothes toys and goods. All ternational School Bangkok selling items In 2017, BAMBI had two Media Coor- un-swapped goods were donated to that had been generously donated by dinators at different times, who helped Second Chance Bangkok for redistribu- BAMBI members and the school’s com- BAMBI keep a consistent Facebook tion to local families in need. munity. We also had the Central Thai- presence and connect with BAMBI land Mission “Sharity” shop offering their members. August 2017: BAMBI Helps Women exclusive donated products for sale. The “Dream Big” charity table raised over 12,000 baht As of today, BAMBI’s Facebook page BAMBI continues to partner with Central which will be added to the door en- has 6,900 ‘likes’. Most of these are Thailand Mission to support projects at trance fee and vendor table fees to do- organic ‘likes’ that do not come as a the Emergency Home, which provides nate towards Central Thailand Mission’s result of ads/promoted posts. Our high- shelter and support to young mothers new storage facility. est clicks are 'Website Clicks', meaning and pregnant women who have been from Facebook, they continue on to the
26 • May 2018 BAMBI website. Ten admins/editors members were not using the activation sitive information being forwarded to from among the committee members codes to make their membership live on personal emails. Cost-effective solutions help update Facebook. the database. will be discussed and brought before the committee for approval after the To get the word out on BAMBI events, In 2017, the process for adding a new launch of the new website. paid advertisements for major events like member and renewing membership was Yard Sales, Splash Party and Halloween documented in a simple flowchart and Benefits Party were placed on Facebook. BAM- communicated to all volunteers respon- BI e-newsletters were sent out to those sible for issuing BAMBI membership We worked on maintaining the current subscribed. The Media Coordinator cards, both new and renewal. This doc- benefits offered to members and try- also sent flyers and details of upcom- umentation now forms part of the Play- ing to increase new offers. By the end ing events to various Women's Clubs group Leader training. of 2017, member discounts were in- in Thailand by email, which these clubs creased by 20 percent. We also now then repost on their e-newsletter and/or Plans for Database in 2018 have a small section added for Pattaya Facebook. These have resulted in satis- With the project underway to build a as well. factory turnout at all events. new BAMBI website, it is hoped that the usability and functionality of the current Plans for Benefits in 2018 Membership and Database database will improve and that the on- BAMBI will continue to identify opportu- line membership process can be stream- nities to increase member discounts. The year 2017 saw a significant in- lined to allow attachment of proof of crease in the membership numbers payments as the decision was made not WOMBLES at BAMBI, up from 761 at the end of to allow credit card payments directly on 2016, to 964 at the end of December our website. WOMBLES started 2017 with new 2017. It is thought this is due in part ideas where some dinners were integrat- to the increased number of playgroups Website ed with an interesting activity such as a and new offerings from BAMBI (e.g. cooking class, interesting performer, art pop-ups), but also from the restructure In 2017, we selected a vendor to build workshop etc. of suggested donations per session from BAMBI's new website. The contracts 150/250 (member/non-member) to were signed in the middle of 2017 and Plans for WOMBLES in 2018 100/300, and also the decision to by the end of the year, we had gathered We may consider including daddies in make many of our weekend offerings input from a small group of key internal some WOMBLES events and will keep free to members. stakeholders and agreed on a wireframe looking for new workshops and interest- and design for the new site. Much of the ing activities that we can work on togeth- Renewals this year accounted for only updated content has been written and er to foster good relationships among 19% of our total membership, with is ready to populate the new site, once parents. new memberships accounting for 81% it’s built. of all members. In previous years the Committee Management split has been 30% renewals to 70% Plans for Website 2018 new members. The new BAMBI website should be built Since Emma and I took Chair and Vice- and available for testing in May 2018, Chairwoman roles in May 2017, we As usual, new members mainly joined at when we can begin to proof and check have been working closely together and our playgroups (43%), with Bumps & Ba- the content. tried to develop a stronger team by focus- bies accounting for 11%, and new mem- ing on what we can do well and stream- bers coffees/pop-up playgroups 10%. We also plan to review and improve lining the processes within BAMBI. This year 15% of new members signed our email system to accommodate the up via online/bank transfer, down from growing complexity of our communica- We decided to change and increase the 20% last year. tion requirements, with each playgroup ways we recognize volunteers contribu- now requiring its own email address. tion to BAMBI by introducing biannual Renewal membership management With the churn of volunteers moving volunteer appreciation events. We had was changed during 2017 so that all through the organization, it is impor- a family fun morning at Funarium and a renewals were processed centrally by tant that we have safeguards to protect Christmas Reading afternoon with Santa the Database Coordinator, as previously members’ information and avoid sen- at Sofitel Hotel. These events were well
www.bambiweb.org • 27 Continued from page 27 locations in Bangkok, we created posi- As a result, the number of our volunteers tions for playgroup assistants to support has increased, and we have over 60 the Playgroup Coordinator in organiza- volunteers at the end of 2017. received and gave volunteers an op- tional and administrative tasks, leaving portunity to network and build a stron- the Coordinator free to source new lo- With this new level of complexity, ger sense of team spirit. cations for playgroups. and for BAMBI to be run efficiently and ethically, it became operationally Monthly meetings: We increased the To support the Treasurer we increased necessary for all our volunteers to have catering allowance to committee mem- the treasury assistants to two, to system- guidelines on their representation of bers hosting our monthly meetings from ize and streamline the financial process BAMBI in the community. To this end, 1,000 to 2,000, as approximately 15 and to further build on the financial the Chairwoman and Vice Chairwom- people attend each time. We also used rigor that was developed by Megha an have drafted a Statement of Values Antique Café to host the committee meet- in her time as BAMBI Treasurer in the (see box) which has been ratified by ing once per quarter to reduce the burden wake of the 2015 fraud. the voting committee and was submit- of hosting on committee members. ted for inclusion as an addendum to New Members/Pop-up: The number of the BAMBI constitution. Playgroup: With the increase in the assistants were increased to handle big number of playgroups across several numbers of turn out on the weekend.
BAMBI STATEMENT OF VALUES • Act honestly, truthfully and with in- relevant to our values. tegrity in all our efforts for BAMBI • Protect the Confidentiality of mem- BAMBI is a project of Childbirth and • Reserve the right to refuse to adver- ber personal information, never Breastfeeding Foundation of Thailand tise or collaborate with any Third sharing this with third parties. (CBFT) a non-profit networking and party whose products or services • Conduct our efforts in an open trans- resource organisation dedicated to en- are not aligned with the values of parent manner, making decisions suring the best possible start in life for BAMBI and Breastfeeding Founda- democratically as a committee with babies. tion of Thailand the best interests of our members in • Not profit personally; either direct- mind. BAMBI is built on the principle of of- ly or indirectly from a third party, • Operate within the Law fering support and companionship to through offers of discount, monetary • Investigate any alleged breaches parents in Bangkok, throughout the incentive or non-financial benefit un- of this code in a fair and timely early years of parenting. Providing less the same benefit is available to manner. networks of meet-ups and events ca- all BAMBI members. tering for families with small children • Declare all third-party gifts with a POSITION ON CONFLICT our aim is to provide encouragement monetary value above 1,000bht OF INTEREST and friendship through the common to the Secretary for committee bond of parenting. We exist to ser- approval. It is recognised that volunteers have vice the needs of our members and • Not offering endorsement by broad interests outside of BAMBI and where possible to provide funds to BAMBI to any third-party company may participate directly or indirectly in charitable efforts which help to sup- providing services to BAMBI or its a range of community and business ac- port families in need in Bangkok. We members, and not allowing direct tivities. We value the contribution and operate solely thanks to a dedicated selling or overt marketing of goods perspective that such experience brings group of volunteers who recognise or services at any BAMBI event or to BAMBI but also recognize the poten- the value of our aims and give their through BAMBI publications (print tial for conflicts of interest to arise. In time and skills freely to support BAM- and online). all such cases, volunteers are required BI and its members. • Treat fellow volunteers and users to immediately declare any interests of our services with respect and which directly conflict with their role The Committee and wider volunteer dignity. within BAMBI to the Chairwoman who community at BAMBI recognise the • Act with fiscal responsibility, reserves the right to disclose such inter- importance of conducting our efforts in prudently using funds to enhance ests to the committee for consideration. a spirit of fairness and integrity and as our members’ experience and such we are committed to: supporting charitable causes 28 • May 2018 www.bambiweb.org • 29 Treasurer's Report 2017 BAMBI Provisional Financial Summary 2017
By Mari Someya, Treasurer
Unit: Thai Baht 2016 2017 % Change Gross Income (A) 1,816,481 2,346,938 29% Expenses (B) (1,188,057) (1,780,539) 50% NET SURPLUS (A-B) * 628,424 566,399 -10% Special Inflow ** 300,000 4,198,558 GRAND TOTAL 928,424 4,764,957
Net Surplus (Expense) Classification Playgroups 174,855 (75,351) -143% PG attendance (no. of families) 4,624 7,806 69% Memberships 749,650 1,180,101 57% Events 66,122 52,713 -20% Website (8,050) (139,116) 1628% Rental 3,300 5,900 79% Sponsors 19,600 14,700 -25% Pattaya 37,557 8,032 -79% Committee/ BAMBI Expenses (399,630) (480,579) 20% Others (special inflow) 300,000 4,198,558 Charities Contribution (70,000) (159,447) 128%
Closing Bank Balance (31st December) 2,032,582 6,712,352
* Net Surplus does not include charities contributions and special inflow **Misappropriated funds returned to BAMBI as per settlement of criminal case Black no. Aor.3598/ 2558, Red No.Aor.2082/2559 net of lawyers fees.
2017 was an eventful year for BAMBI. ilies recognized the value of becoming Finally, we achieved a satisfactory BAMBI opened 10 new playgroups a member by enjoying discounted rates closure to the long-standing court case and discounted the entrance donation at our playgroups and events. and received 4.7 million towards the for members from 150 to 100 at all settlement. We plan to utilize these regular playgroups. Pop-up playgroups Overall, net surplus fell by 10% from funds to better serve our members and became regular events and brought 2016 due to higher expenses. We local community in Thailand in the new members, as entry is free for mem- spent more on better services for our years ahead. bers. members to vary playgroup venues, new toys and accessories, and invest- We welcome any questions you may As a result, attendance rose by 69% as ment into our new website. We also have on the above information. Please playgroups became more accessible stepped up our contributions to charity write to us at [email protected] and affordable. Furthermore, it boosted projects and on recognizing the work or [email protected] our membership by 104% as more fam- of our volunteers.
30 • May 2018 [email protected], [email protected] Tel: +66 2687 7800 www.asiantigers-mobility.com/Thailand asiantigersmobilitythailand
www.bambiweb.org • 31 Bumps & Babies
Bumps & Babies is a support group for women of all nationalities who are pregnant or have recently given birth. 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, babywearing 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. Importance of Nutrition for Moms and Moms-to-be By Karin Biran Pregnancy and childbirth are miraculous, yet they can be overwhelming for a mother's body. Foods to eat or avoid during and after birth are crucial.
Congratulations, you’re going to be a is treat yourself almost like you are preg- height2) tend to give birth on time and mom! Sorry, let me rephrase - you are al- nant and stop drinking alcohol. Many with fewer health risks. Women who ready a mom. You become a mother the research studies were done on alcohol were below or above this BMI range Cminute you started thinking of having a during pregnancy and the global recom- should be advised to gain or lose at baby. Just the thought of a baby means mendation is to avoid alcohol consump- least 5% of their weight to ensure a you started making changes and getting tion at any stage. healthier pregnancy and healthier baby. your body ready to provide the best environment for your fetus to Things to remember once you do grow in. get pregnant.
What are the most important First trimester: tips to get your body ready for pregnancy? This trimester is usually the most challenging since you may not 1- Doctor’s assessment: feel like yourself, your food prefer- A. Taking specific blood tests ences may be changing and it’s in order to see if there are even likely that you feel sick and any vitamins or mineral have no appetite at all. During this deficiencies or other im- trimester, you should try and eat a balances. healthy and balanced diet, but if B. Consulting with a doctor it is too hard for you at this point, in case you are taking don’t worry. By following the previ- any medications that are ous recommendations, your body forbidden during preg- will have all it needs to provide the nancy. best support for the development C. Taking a pregnancy sup- of your fetus. In addition, keep tak- plement (Prenatal) that ing supplements like folic acid and is rich in folic acid (400 iodine as they are important for mcg) and iodine (200- your baby’s organ development, 250 mcg) daily at least reducing the risks of serious health one month before preg- and cognitive problems. Lastly, in nancy to prevent health- order to avoid food poisoning that related conditions. may harm your unborn child, it is best to avoid uncooked meats, fish 2- Most women don’t know and eggs, unpasteurized milk and when they will get pregnant, but most 3- Managing your weight - It has been processed meat such as hot dogs and times they do know when they choose to found that women with a BMI that rang- deli meats. If you feel like going out and start trying. The first thing you need to do es between 18.5-25 (BMI= weight/ eating or ordering food, choose a clean 32 • May 2018 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: Yaz ([email protected]) and Emma ([email protected]) Suggested family donation: 100 BAMBI-members with membership card &฿ 300 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] restaurant to avoid contaminants or food poisoning.
Second trimester:
Hopefully, you are starting to feel better by now. This is the best time to take a closer look at your eating habits. Dur- ing this trimester your fetus’s organs will continue growing and they need the best support to do that.
1. Eat a diversified diet. By doing so, you expose yourself to a variety of nutri- ents needed for the development of your fetus and introduce through the amniotic fluid new flavors that will be familiar to him/her. Photo Source: Unsplash
2. Organize your meals. You need to Third trimester: have at least 3 main meals and 2 snacks References: during the day. Your fetus will continue growing and 1. Geraghty A.A, Lindsay K.L, Alberdi G, et 3. Eat at least 4 vegetable portions & his brain and bone development will al. Nutrition During Pregnancy Impacts Off- spring’s Epigenetic Status—Evidence from Hu- 2 fruit portions daily. Be sure to eat a be crucial this trimester. Your focus man and Animal Studies. Nutr Metab Insights. variety of colors. should be on consuming Omega 3, 2015;8(S1):41-7. calcium and vitamin D. Omega 3 was 4. Choose whole grains: Rye, whole found helpful for brain development, Polotsky A.J, Shaum K.M. Nutrition And Repro- duction: Is There Evidence To Support A “Fertility wheat, oats, sweet potato, whole wheat and you may get it from fish (con- Diet” To Improve Mitochondrial Function?. Maturi- pasta and more. sumed twice a week), walnuts, soy, tas. 2013;74(4):309-12 flax seeds and chia seeds. It is best to 5. Choose meals that are high in pro- reduce caffeine consumption during Verbeke W, De Bourdeaudhuij I. Dietary behav- iour of pregnant versus non-pregnant women. Ap- tein: milk products, eggs, lean meat, this trimester. petite. 2007;48:78-86 pork, chicken and fish. Here are the recommendations for Choi S.W, Friso S. Epigenetics: A New Bridge 6. Consume healthy fats: Avocado, ol- weight gain during pregnancy: between Nutrition and Health. Am Sci Nutr. 2010;1:8-16 ives, tahini, unsalted nuts and seeds. Gronert M, Ozanne S.E. Maternal nutrition dur- 7. Drink water: at least 2 liters per day. ing pregnancy and health of the offspring. Bio- chem Soci. 2006;34(5):779-80
8. Engage in a moderate physical activity. Gardiner P.M, Nelson L, Shellhaas C.S, et al. The clinical content of preconception care: nutri- 9. Consult a doctor about iron supple- tion and dietary supplements. Am J Obstetrics Gy- ments. If needed, take the prenatal necology. 2018:345S-55S supplements from this trimester up until 4 From a fetus to a toddler, the first Delange F, Zimmermann M. Iodine supple- months after birth. 1000 days is a critical period nutrition mentation of pregnant women in Europe: a re- wise. Your role as a mother continues view and recommendations. Eur J Clinic Nutr. By following these recommendations to evolve as you learn along the way 2004;58:979-84 and eating properly, you are making how to help your child gain weight at a sure that your fetus will continue grow- healthy rate while exposing him to a va- ing healthy and that you stay in a good riety of food thus helping him become a health! healthy eater. www.bambiweb.org • 33 feature Be Serious About Play Time By Judy King
If someone were to say to you: “take the time out just to be silly, to go and do something just for the fun of it,” how many of you would roll your eyes and respond with “I wish! I don’t have time for that.” Judy King talks about why play isn’t just for kids, it’s important for adults too.
Stop. Take a deep breath. Relax for a Play reduces stress. able. Fearing rejection, embarrassment minute. Life is all too serious. You feel Playing and having fun triggers the re- or ridicule when attempting to be playful it in your body, the tension, the stress. lease of endorphins – the body’s natural is an understandable fear and one that SWork deadlines, family commitments, re- feel-good hormone. Bonding with others often keeps us from letting loose in the lationship needs, money worries, health during periods of play are recorded to fun-zone. Growth in any area of our life issues...all these things may be creating ward off depression and reduce anxiety. is uncomfortable, so implementing this pressures in your everyday life. as a personal development exercise will Play boosts creativity. have huge results in other areas of your At some point in your life, your body is Our minds are wired so that we are life as well. going to demand that you take time out only able to process a certain amount to smell the roses. You can only operate of information at any given time (it is a Make a list of things that you think might on overdrive for so long until something huge number, but there is a limit). When be fun to try but have been too scared has to give. Have you thought about you are locked into a busy schedule, to up until now. Make a commitment to how ‘play’, or doing what seems to be your mind simply has no opportunity to try at least one thing every week for a a meaningless activity, can benefit your ‘think outside the box’. Creating space month. At the end of the month check in overall success and wellbeing? in your day away from your usual rou- with yourself and see how it felt. tine of work will allow your mind a little Adult play is about forgetting all the stuff more freedom to ponder new ideas or Relationship benefits of play going on around you and just enjoying creatively solve problems. Those who play together stay together. an activity for the experience and the mo- Play in a relationship builds trust and ment, not for achieving a particular goal. Play and fun naturally lead to an awak- resilience. It helps heal hurts and resent- Play, fun and laughter can be something ened imagination. When we are happy ments. It stimulates conversation that can you just BE, rather than DO. Consider or on a high we also tend to consider often become stagnant. When you are the days when you were a child and life new ideas much more readily. pushing your comfort zones with some- was all about play – life goes back to one by your side (either a partner or a being much simpler and easier. Play pushes you beyond your team member) there is a bond that de- comfort zone. velops. Personal benefits of play Activities that break you out of your norm, Here are a few ways that having fun, no matter how small they are, signal to Where should I start? playing, being silly and enjoying some the unconscious that there is life outside Commit yourself to a set amount of time light-hearted moments can really help of the comfort zone. Pushing yourself to every week that you are going to devote drive your overall life plan forward. have fun can feel incredibly uncomfort- to having fun. The minimum recommen- dation is two hours every week. Start there, then see how you go. Make it a non-negotiable just like a doctor’s ap- pointment, or a client meeting.
Here are some other ideas for you to try: • Schedule a regular games night with a group of friends • Go dancing • Go to the park and throw around a frisbee or fly a kite • Play with a pet, or sit down and do colouring with your child • Do a jigsaw puzzle • Have a collection of jokes you can tell to strangers waiting for the bus Photo Source: Pixabay • Check out your local karaoke bar 34 • May 2018 Toddler Playgroup SUMMER age 1.5 - 3 years CAMP 2018 ( ) 3 - 26 JULY Mon 10:00 - 11:30 9:30 - 11:30 Wed 3:30 - 5:00 pavingLittle ways Explorersfor big adventures
¥ Reggio Emilia inspired toddler and pre-nursery programme for 1.5 - 3 year-olds ¥ Developmental specialists onsite ¥ Play and investigation-based learning ¥ Individualised learning in a diverse and inclusive learning community ¥ Safe and nurturing early-childhood environment ¥ Small learning cohort size (8 students per class) and student-to-teacher ratio (4:1)
www.littleexplorersthailand.com | [email protected] 109/1(B) Soi Thonglor 5, Sukhumvit 55, Bangkok 10110 Tel. 097-239-8595
ENROLL NOW
www.bambiweb.org • 35 Travel Unwinding With Nature and Beauty Down Under
Text and photo by Nori Brixen
Sometimes you just need to leave the cra- ziness of Thailand and get some clean air, fresh produce and relax with the kids Sin a Western environment without travel- ing for more than a day to get to Europe or the US. We chose the Margaret River for those reasons and the added bonus that the vineyards of the Margaret River region of Australia produce some of the country’s best wines: luscious cabernet sauvignons, creamy chardonnays, and Every now and then, the urge to escape the crowd and delectable dishes at the numerous vine- hustle bustle of Thailand becomes necessary. If you yard restaurants. As we soon discov- are looking for a total change of scenery to a western ered, however, the wine quickly took a backseat (often literally) to the enjoyment environment, but without the long haul flights, take a trip of the region’s natural beauty. to the Margaret River, Australia, to relax and indulge in the beauty of beaches, wines and wilderness. The best way to experience such beauty is on foot and with a good field guide. Numerous hiking trails criss-cross the dis- and llamas at Sunflower Animal Farm. bles and beanbags near the playground continuous boundaries of Cape Leeuwin Both farms offer farm stays, but we chose so parents can eat or sit nearby. We Naturaliste national park, but the Grand- to rent a beach house in Dunsborough, also enjoyed lunch and wine at Swings daddy of Them All is the 135-kilometre a gorgeous town with beaches where & Roundabouts. Adults and kids loved Cape to Cape walk, which starts at the older kids can learn to surf and little their wood-fired Italian pizzas and while Cape Leeuwin lighthouse near Augusta ones can play on seaside playgrounds. you’re wine tasting, kids can play a and finishes at the Cape Naturaliste 35,000 whales migrate from Antarctica variety of games. Note that most cellar lighthouse near Dunsborough, snaking to warmer waters around Australia so the doors and restaurants close at 5 pm. north across expanses of coast, heath, likelihood of spotting them on one of the and endemic karri and jarrah forests. boat tours is high from June to December. Another bonus is the fantastic produce On a ridge overlooking a wide beach available in the region. If you happen to hemmed in by rocky promontories, we If you enjoy wine, the Margaret River is be there on the 2nd or 4th Saturday of watched in awe as a pod of dolphins one of the most beautiful wine regions the month, definitely attend the amazing surfed the building waves, launching in the world. The proximity to the coast Farmer's Market. There are 30-40 stalls into the air behind the waves as they is what makes the Margaret River wine selling all sorts of fantastic items like or- crashed. This time around we attempted region so unique in Australia. A wide, ganic fruits/veggies, meats, fish, baked a few hikes with the boys using hiking uncrowded beach is rarely more than goods, cheese, wine, coffee, etc. Other backpacks but they often fell asleep af- twenty minutes from the vineyards. In the places we recommend are the Marga- ter about 30 minutes or complained they town of Margaret River, surf shops rub ret River Dairy Company which has free wanted to go back to the beach. shoulders with wine bars, and the guy tastings of their delicious yogurts and with the incredible tan and the lithe surfer cheeses and definitely stop by the Mar- The area offers several activities for kids body might just be a premium winemak- garet River Chocolate Factory for hot especially if they like animals. We vis- er. The area is thankfully very welcom- chocolate and free chocolate tastings. ited Country Life Farm where the boys ing towards families. Aravina Estate has My kids also loved the Berry Farm Café could feed rabbits, guinea pigs and a large shaded playground, an indoor where they feasted on the best scones sheep as well as getting close to ponies, sports car gallery, high chairs and a kids and pancakes served with homemade donkeys and geese. My boys were so menu. The boys’ favorite playground jams and syrups which also make for excited to see their first kangaroos, emus was at Laurance Wines and there’s ta- great take-home gifts. 36 • May 2018 Creative Kids Animal Craft Using an Empty Egg Carton A fun craft to do with your kids during the summer holidays!
By Donatella Lazzari
The summer holidays will be here soon and we'll soon find ourselves scratching our heads for ideas to keep our children engaged. It's best to plan a list of crafts that you and your child can do together. TMaking a crocodile out of an egg carton should provide enough entertainment/challenge for both you and your child.
Materials: An (empty!) egg carton Green and white cardstock Green paper Green poster paint (water based) Assemble the crocodile: A brush, sponge, and plastic plate - When the paint is dry, you can start on Black marker and pencil the head by marking out the crocodile Glue stick, adhesive tape, scissors nostrils with the black marker, sticking the eyes with the adhesive tape and the teeth on the inside of the box. Prepare the crocodile parts: - Now tape together or tie the three main - Cut the egg carton in half lengthwise body parts: head, body and tail. To tie, and let your child paint it green with the pierce a hole on either side of the parts help of a brush and or sponge. You may with a hole punch or pencil, then tie with dilute the poster paint with a little water a metal tie (like those used to tie food I recommend reading any of the in the plastic plate. Let it dry. packets) or a piece of pipe cleaner or a following books to accompany this - Mark out the following shapes and let piece of string. craft activity. your child cut them out: - Now to the legs: start with two strips Aunt Amelia by Rebecca Cobb 1. From the white cardstock- a long strip of green paper and teach your child Alberto the Dancing Alligator by for the teeth (3x40cm approx), a square how to spring fold. Repeat four times. Richard Waring to make the eyes (6x6cm approx) Stick the feet at one end of each paper spring and then attach the other end to The Crocodile Under the Bed by 2. From the green cardstock-a rectangle the crocodile body. Judith Kerr for the tail (28x10cm approx), a rectan- gle for the 4 feet (7x36cm approx) and - Last but not least, cut the green card There is an Alligator Under My Bed a long strip for the back ridge (4x40cm into a back ridge: tape half of it on the by Mercer Mayer approx) head and the other half on the tail. Walking Through the Jungle by 3. From the green paper- 8 strips Your egg carton crocodile is now ready Debbie Harter (4x28cm approx.) for a number of pretend games. www.bambiweb.org • 37 feature
Photo Source: Unsplash Life by Design. How Intentional Are You Being? By Carolina Herrera It is all too easy to go into autopilot mode, here are some great tips to avoid doing so and living the life you really want.
Have you ever had a conversation like I remember the day I read about RLS in you are not willing to compromise on. this: Jonathan’s manifesto UNBUSY; a beau- Knowing this will help you make deci- tifully written declaration of purpose, I sions that are aligned with your authentic HMonday morning coffee with a friend. was nodding along, thinking oh dear! I self. There are tons of sources to help She asks, “How was your weekend?” hope there’s a cure for this. you figure this out but one simple exer- cise I came across asked me to do this: You say, “Yeah it was great, thanks”, At the time, I had been going through a really low point in my life. I had eczema Think about 3 moments in your life where and she says, “Nice, what did you get all over my body brought on by stress. you felt truly happy. Then think about up to?” I had all the types you can imagine, it what these moments have in common? And you say: “Well... hmm... let me was awful. Life was just not right. I knew What emotions flood you when you think. Er... hmm, I can’t actually remem- I had to do something to reconnect with think about these scenarios? The feel- ber but I know it was nice!... I think?... ” the real me and find the identity I had ings you associate with these moments lost in the midst of my business. I had to will give you a good insight into what’s I’ve had this conversation many times, try and find what lit me up, do more of it truly important to you. For instance, my and as soon as I hear myself saying the and become intentional! impromptu marriage in Las Vegas was words, “Yeah, great thanks”, I think oh one of those really happy moments. Ev- no! I have ‘Reactive Life Syndrome (RLS)’ Whilst trying to find ‘cures’ and in my erything about that day was done in ‘our AGAIN! Author Jonathan Fields ex- quest for hope and answers, I came way’. So I associated it with a sense of plains ‘RLS - Reactive Life Syndrome’ to across a few practices I’d now like to authenticity and freedom – which I’ve re- be the result of a life lived in autopilot. A share with you. alised are my top values. life spent frantically running around tick- ing off a never-ending to-do list, always Figure out your values: what’s truly im- Learn when to say NO, and when to say reacting but never intentionally deciding portant to you. Find out what drives you, YES. This is tricky because there is no set what you really want to do. fills you with excitement, and that which formula. I personally focused on saying 38 • May 2018 NO more to the people who were drain- We can come up with ideas of what we ing me and bringing me down. Then this want and test them out. For instance, if left more time to say YES to the people you’ve always wanted to own a café, who made me happy. rather than mortgaging your house to open one, why not go and work in a Scan your relationships. Who are your café first? Talk to people who own a cheerleaders? Who are the people that café and find out if the life they have is make you smile and treat you right? Say the life you aspire to. YES to spending time with them and NO to the soul-sucking ones. There will be a As obvious as this sounds, it’s often a time when you can be there for them, but missed step. for now, you’ve got to ‘fill your glass’ first! In a talk at The Chicago Ideas Week, Find a way to be present. Becoming Bill and Dave summarise the Design Your mindful of your relationships, your sur- Life process as follows: Get curious. Talk roundings and your daily choices will to people. And Try stuff!. They tell us that give you a clearer picture of how you designing your life is a fluid process; it’s spend your time. This knowledge will about trying stuff out and seeing what help you take control of how you behave works. and start making meaningful choices rather than constantly being on autopi- For me, being intentional doesn’t mean lot. Jonathan Fields also suggests sched- course by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans you have to plan everything. It means uling reminders on your smartphone that from Stanford University. For many years getting clear on what’s important to you, will become triggers for coming back to I had walked around feeling very proud and letting this guide you into becoming the present moment. For me, hearing the of my ability to go with the flow. Not the person you really want to be. doorbell ring when my son gets home realising the flow takes you where the from school is my queue for putting the flow wants to go – which is not neces- Reference: laptop aside and forgetting about work. sarily where you want to end up. Now, http://www.jonathanfields.com/ I’ve learnt that just like designers, we can unbusy/ Prototype the life you want. This is some- apply design techniques to our life and thing I learnt from the Design Your Life create prototypes of the life we desire.
www.bambiweb.org • 39 fitness The Benefits of Aqua Fitness
Text and Photos by Andy Duckworth
This easy on the joints exercise can help you in attaining your fitness goals while beating the harsh Bangkok heat.
The importance of exercise and healthy gym user and runner who has complet- Can anyone do aqua-exercises? living is something that is stressed upon ed five half marathons, I thought I’d find Aqua-exercises are ideal for individuals us frequently. Physical activity and exer- it easy but certainly felt the effects after returning to exercising after an injury or a Tcise can have immediate and long-term pushing myself on all the moves. long period of inactivity. It is also highly health benefits. As an aqua fitness in- recommended for older people as the structor working in the industry for 20+ water gives them greater movement and years, I have seen the benefits of water- flexibility than they would have on dry based exercise for elite athletes through land. New mums and those with lower prenatal ladies. back problems can also benefit from Whether you’re a super fit athlete, a non- aqua-exercises as the water supports swimmer or an open water swimmer, a them, taking pressure off the spine. water work out will do you a world of You do not have to be an Olympic swim- good. To reap the rewards it requires a mer to take part in aqua-exercises either. certain level of intensity. A majority of aqua-exercises take place Why exercise in the water? in water no deeper than chest height and your feet will always be able to touch the A major benefit of exercising in the wa- floor. Some of the exercises could even ter is the protection it offers your joints. help boost your confidence in the water, When exercising in water, you don't improving your swimming technique. Be- have any gravity forcing your body Do you get a better workout? ing in the pool is good for much more than your physical health – it gives you weight down onto your joints. Just because exercising in water is softer a sense of wellbeing. There is a sense on joints does not mean it is a softer Running is one of the highest impact of weightlessness and grace that you workout. Working out in water means exercises you could choose. Every time don’t feel on land. Aqua exercise makes your muscles are forced to work harder, your foot hits the pavement, a shock this feeling accessible to everyone, even burning more fat and toning them up equivalent to five times your bodyweight those who can’t swim. travels up your legs and into your spine. faster than land-based exercises. This is Exercising in water eliminates this shock because they are fighting the water ev- Water exercise is a first-class form of ex- impact, protecting your joints. Experts ery time they move. Every movement you ercise which can benefit you in terms of believe that the buoyancy of the water make in the water means you are fight- fitness and health just as much as normal can reduce the impact on your joints by ing against its resistance. Jogging on dry land-based exercise but it has the added over 85 percent. Many athletes often land will only burn up approximately six benefit that it is less likely to cause you train in water when they are recovering calories per minute. But aqua jogging injury or stress to your body. from an injury so they can still train their can burn over 11 calories a minute, Regardless of your fitness level, age and muscles but without putting extra stress giving you a better workout. The extra needs, water exercise is right for you. So on a weak joint. pressure of the water on your legs also pushes more blood back up into the top get out there and find yourself a pool! It’s a rare exercise class that can cater to half of your body. This makes your heart And don’t forget the instructor too. mixed abilities, and I can vouch that it’s work harder, raising your heartbeat and no piece of cake for fit people. Having burning even more calories during your been a competitive swimmer, regular water workout. 40 • May 2018 Prenatal and postnatal care, visit our clinic. Welcome to come with your baby.
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To improve the pain and After morbidity of the body what delivered affected from pelvic distortion! *A high-frequency electrotherapy equipment which capable of muscle training while sleeping is also available. We enable people and organisations to work, Phromphong 4th Fl., RSU Tower, Sukhumvit Soi 31 02-262-0831 / 092-052-5255 (Acupuncture) live and thrive in new places around the world. Opening hours 9:00~12:00 / 15:00~18:30 Closed On FRI of 4th week PM. Acupuncture close: TUE PM. & WED Thonglor B1 Fl., Home Place Bldg., Thonglor Soi 13 02-185-3433 Santa Fe Relocation Opening hours 9:00~12:00 / 15:00~18:30 Closed On FRI of 4th week PM. T: +662 742 9890 E: [email protected] Ekamai 1st Fl., Gateway Ekamai 02-115-8433 santaferelo.com Opening hours 10:00~12:30 / 15:00~18:30 Closed On FRI of 4th week PM.
We make it easy http://jclinicth.com
www.bambiweb.org • 41 recipe Easy Falafels For a Superhero Type Snack
By Frederique-Ann Lock Add some pizzazz to your kitchen repertoire with these incredibly nutritious, delicious and easy-to-prepare falafels.
Looking for a healthy snack or a lunch box filler? Want to build those superhero muscles? Get your little explorers involved in this flavour-packed ball of goodness Land open up their sense of adventure. Living in a multicultural environment, I like to broaden my children’s worldview as much as I can, and my way to do this is through food! Falafels, a Middle Eastern staple of chickpeas and fragrant herbs, has enjoyed worldwide popularity - thanks to its nutrition-packed, tasty and versatile nature!
Chickpeas are to the younger generation what spinach was to my generation’s “Popeye”. They are the muscle builders. Chickpeas provide a good source of protein, carbohydrates and fibre, essential for cell-building, providing energy and control the blood sugar level. On top of that chickpeas are packed with iron, phos- phate, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and vitamin K and they all contribute to building and maintaining bone structure and strength.
2. Put all the beans and half the chick- peas into a food processor and whiz until smooth (be careful not to overload your processor).
3. Add the dried spices and salt, fol- lowed by the chopped spring onions and crushed garlic and whiz again, until well combined.
4. Finally, add the remaining chickpeas and fresh herbs and pulse until chopped FALAFEL Large bunch of coriander, long stems re- and well combined, but not pureed – moved, roughly chopped the mixture should still be lumpy with chickpeas. (Makes about 25) Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, long 15 min preparation + 15 min of frying stems removed, roughly chopped 5. Stir in the baking powder. Ingredients: ½tsp baking powder 100g dried chickpeas 6. Roll the mixture into small, flattish 4 tbsp sesame seeds balls, about 5 to 6 cm lengthwise, and 1 tin fava beans – drained and dried Sunflower or vegetable oil, to fry roll briefly in the sesame seeds to coat 1 tsp ground cumin them. (This is a great activity for your Hummus mixed with yoghurt, kefir or wa- children.) 1 tsp ground coriander ter as a dip 1½ tsp of Lebanese seven-spice (or ½ 7. Heat oil in a deep pan to tsp ground black pepper and ¼ tsp Process: 180C/350F, then fry the falafel in each of ground cinnamon, ginger, all- batches and drain on kitchen paper. 1. Soak the chickpeas in plenty of cold spice and nutmeg) water overnight. If you like the chickpeas 8. Serve with hummus. 1 tsp salt to be extra soft, add some bicarb soda Note: You can easily freeze them after to the water. Drain, rinse and tip on to a 5 spring onions, finely sliced frying. Also once you defrost them you clean tea towel to dry. Rinse the tinned can heat them up in the oven at 175C 4 garlic cloves, crushed beans, dry on a tea towel. before serving. 42 • May 2018 Health & Safety Should You Leave Your Children at Home Alone?
By Kakanang Jantarapagdee, M.D.
This may sound worrisome but it is not always a bad thing to leave your child at home alone. Remind yourself of what you did when you were young. Teach your children necessary steps they should know
Photo Source: iStock when they are alone.
Most parents do not leave their small Children must have knowledge of home one who does not live in the house, and children alone at home. Due to inno- safety systems, know important phone should not tell anyone on the phone that cence and lack of matured decision- numbers and know how to access emer- they are at home alone. Mmaking, children are often not respon- gency services, if necessary. Teach your sible, which can lead to a number of children how to phone local police/ hos- A few final tips: adverse events. However, there may be pital in case of an emergency. You must some instances, in which you will have also ensure your children know their own Set safety environment: Set a surveil- to leave your child(ren) alone for a few home address and phone number so they lance camera system for your house to minutes or longer. There is no definite can give their location to authorities. monitor your children when they stay age for when children can be left alone alone. Lock sharp, hazardous chemical at home. However, 6-9-year-old children If parents feel their children know all the and dangerous equipment inside the might stay at home alone for a short time above things, they may start by allowing cabinet to prevent your children from any depending on their developmental abili- them some experience: accidental injury. ties, self-control, responsibilities and their learnings from their parents. Practice being alone for short periods, Test - Ask questions, such as, what maximum 30 minutes at a time. would they do if the postman came to Here are things that parents must ensure the house, if friends wanted to visit, if a during exceptional circumstances when Assign specific housework or chores to stranger knocked on the door or if an ac- they are unable to be with their children: your children, or give them homework to cidental injury happened. This way you Children must know that they should do have completed by the time you return can hear what your children have to say their homework or help their parents with home (ensuring the time period is appro- and help them practice making the right housework and be able to do their rou- priate to the assignment given). decisions. tine activities including how to prepare simple food to eat (sandwich, ready to There are, however, some further consid- Set rules - Tell your children what they eat food etc.). erations to be taken in, in addition to are allowed and not allowed to do those mentioned above, such as: when alone. For example, children must Children must be matured enough to de- not open the door for anyone, including cide and know the difference between Is your child afraid of being left alone? for a friend or an acquaintance; let the right and wrong, safe and dangerous Children must adhere to agreed-upon phone ring and let it go to voicemail un- and what they should and shouldn't do. rules ( for example no turning on the gas less your child has a mobile phone and/ must know that they shouldn't open the or plugging in any electrical appliances or you have specified a time that you door to a stranger or have phone con- on their own). will call them. You must also set rules for versations with unknown people asking kitchen use, the gas stove, microwave, where their parents are or when will they Does your child have the presence of or sharp or dangerous equipment. be back. mind to deal with situations that may arise? Has he/she they been trained Don't be gone for long - In the begin- Older children must be made aware of and prepared for emergencies, or not? ning, you should not leave a child alone accidental injuries caused by electrical It must be emphasized to your children for more than half an hour at a time. If all gadgets. that except in the case of a genuine goes well, gradually increase the time emergency, they should not go outside you allow your children to stay alone but alone, should not open the door for any- not too long or overnight. www.bambiweb.org • 43 Fatherhood Adventures in Mature Fatherhood: Future Plans and Relationships
By Joel Farnworth Every parent wants to see their child succeed and have a bright future. Joel discusses how he’s helping shape his children’s future.
“When I grow up I want to have a baby It may be that I am too sensitive to these go out with my daughter?” Perhaps, I and call it Rainbow Dash.” issues – I grew up in an environment wouldn’t mind being in that position my- where 14-year- old girls often referred self. WThis was Sophie making declarations to putting things away in their “bottom about her future intentions at age 6. Not drawer”. That is that they were already The reality, of course, is that by then sure where this particular idea came from thinking of their motherhood/married role all will be her call. We can only hope but probably a combination of younger even at those tender ages. No doubt, a she has listened to mum and dad’s mes- siblings turning up to playdates – both result of previous generations, their limited sages - and on baby names, the Liver- her and her brother seem to show lots of horizons and a subsequent passing on of pool football team is off the potential interest in these much younger humans similar thinking. I, therefore, want to en- list (though Blackburn Rovers may be a – and discussions about her favourite sure that as such things become more real consideration!!). uncle’s work as a pediatrician. in the years ahead, Sophie’s horizons are as broad as can be. Funny how we dads seem to focus on Sophie has never really been a “play these things in relation to our daughters with dolls” type of girl. She has quite a As for Rainbow Dash, well her favourite and not so much our sons – part of our few from Christmas and birthdays, but theme to draw at present is rainbows so enhanced protectionism with our girls I they have rarely seen the light of day this makes sense – she has mentioned think. In considering Sophie’s statement and this sudden commitment to parent- the name a few times and I am actu- above, it did make me think of JJ and hood was a little surprising. ally growing to like it – but I am wary his potential fatherhood role and how I that the theme could change at any time might be preparing him for it. He has I doubt the comment is particularly sig- soon and we may be faced with a more mentioned it occasionally, but it seems to nificant at this stage – and any future unusual potential “monicker”. Some of be something that only fleetingly crosses suitor will need to deal with the armed the Disney fairy names would not be too his mind at present. guards, dogs and the rather large shot- bad, but we may have to draw the line gun I intend to purchase – but then it did at the Superheroes her brother is encour- However, I am very conscious of the ex- make me think about the messages my aging (particularly the bad guys). ample he sees in me and how this may wife and I give out (intentionally and oth- influence him down the road – my own erwise) as to what the future may hold. As I think more about some spotty youth influences were (mildly) negative and I We think we have emphasized oppor- turning up at our door looking for So- have strived to learn from this and give tunities, choice and being whatever she phie, I recall a conversation with the him (them) experiences of more positive (and her brother) want to be – sliding in “favourite uncle” how he dealt with it behaviours. the odd “need to learn to choose” com- (he has 3 girls now moving through late ment as appropriate. So, mother, rocket teens and twenties). He always felt sorry Not sure if it’s working, the kids are fairly scientist, golfer, dentist, vet etc. are all for the guys as his girls were such strong complimentary of my efforts. Time will up for grabs. characters: “Are you sure you want to tell! 44 • May 2018 BAMBI’S NEWEST ADDITION
Please help us welcome one of our new- est members to the BAMBI family. Proud mom Yoshiko writes: P“On Dec 29th 2017 we welcomed Hugo Richard Swinney into our family. Hugo has just learnt to smile recently and is gradually charming his brother George into accepting him as his new little brother!” Welcome Hugo and congratulations to the Swinney family! —BAMBI News
If you have had or know of any new additions to our BAMBI family, please share with us by sending an email to [email protected]. All current BAMBI members welcome!
Reading Corner 8 Great Summer Reads for Children
Chu’s First Day of School The Selfish Crocodile My Many Colored Days
Author: Neil Gaiman, Author: Faustin Charles Author: Dr. Seuss illustrated by Adam Rex illustrated by Michael Terry Age Group: 1-5 years old Age Group: 2-4 years old Age Group: 3-5 years old A little-known Dr. Se- A great end-of-sum- uss book about emo- A great read aloud mer read for little tions explained through to teach little ones ones to help them color and rhyme. the value of kind- prepare for first day ness and the im- of school jitters. The portance of shar- story of Chu’s (a pan- ing. This brightly da) first day of school colored illustrated book will give parents is beautifully narrated だあれかな an opportunity to make the reading inter- and illustrated; kids are sure to be able active by lending voices to the various 著者: La ZOO to relate and enjoy this amusing story! 絵：あらかわ しずえ characters in the story. Nightsong 対象年齢: ０－２歳 It Could Have Been Worse ０歳児からでも楽しめ Author: Ari Berk, る仕掛け絵本。色々な illustrated by Loren Long Author: A.H Benjamin 形の穴から、少しだけ illustrated by Tim Warnes 見えるかわいい動物た Age Group: 5-7 years old ちの一部を一緒に見て Children and parents Age Group: 3-6 years old 「だあれかな」？動物 の鳴き声も使って読ん alike will fall in love This lively book であげると、赤ちゃん with this breathtaking もにっこり。 yet simple story about about a little mouse a young bat who’s who’s having ter- sent out into the night rible luck will help きんぎょがにげた alone for the first time and learns to find children work on 著者: 五味太郎 his way back home. their prediction skills whilst teaching them that situations 対象年齢: ２－４歳 How to Catch a Star are not always as bad as they seem and ある日きんぎょが鉢か that a rough day isn’t the end of their ら逃げ出した！おうち Author: Oliver Jeffers little worlds. の中をあちこち移動す るきんぎょをお子さん Age Group: 1-5 years と一緒に見つけましょ old う。カラフルな絵、お うちの中にある様々な A sweet story of a boy and his quest to ものの間に隠れているきんぎょを探しな catch a star, sure to bring warm fuzzies. がら子供と楽しめる一冊です。 www.bambiweb.org • 45 BAMBI NEEDS YOU! BAMBI is run by a group of lovely volunteers. Want to have fun, work together with other great parents, brush up on your professional skills, and do something for the BAMBI community? This is your chance! If you have questions or need more info, please contact [email protected]. We have a number of exciting opportunities currently available.
DATABASE COORDINATOR ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT Ensures online database is maintained and Works together with Activities Coordinator to organize activities for older that membership details are up to date, and kids (3-8 years). Attends and can manage, if needed, the activity: col- distributes this information to the committee as lects entrance donations, and welcomes new and current members to the needed. Manages online membership applica- activity. Helps the Coordinator develop new activities and coordinate tions and related admin, including posting of with activity leaders and venues. It's a plus (but not a must) if you have membership cards. Liaises with BAMBI News kids yourself in the 3-8 age range, so you know what kids in that age team to provide up-to-date membership infor- like and can bring your kids along. mation for the monthly mailing of magazines. Reports at committee meetings on the number of new members, expired members and renew- SUPPORT GROUPS COORDINATOR als. Attends monthly committee meetings as a Coordinates with third-party BAMBI support groups, keeping their infor- voting committee member and participates/ mation up to date. Oversees all internal BAMBI support groups, identifies assists with events, fundraisers and other orga- and sets up new groups when appropriate and reports to committee on nizational activities. a monthly basis. Accepts and manages queries from members. Prepares regular articles for BAMBI News concerning relevant/useful information. TREASURER ASSISTANT Helps the Treasurer take care of all fi- PLAYGROUP LEADER/CO-LEADER nancial aspects of BAMBI, including: Attends and manages the playgroup: collects entrance donations, welcomes supporting BAMBI volunteers on finan- new and current members to the playgroup and takes photos of the play- cial aspects, processing payments and group for the BAMBI News magazine. BAMBI playgroups are predominant- receipts, reporting to the committee and ly ‘free-play’; however, Playgroup Leaders and Co-leaders can voluntarily helping to prepare annual reports, en- introduce circle time or short activities to their playgroup at their discretion. suring compliance with accounting/ We have positions for Playgroup Leaders/Co-leaders at various locations bookkeeping. throughout Bangkok.
¡WOMBLES with Sombreros! By Akiko Cayne Thank you ladies and gentlemen for coming to WOMBLES dinner and drinks at Charlie Browns in March. We enjoyed delicious tacos with half-priced margaritas and sangria. WOMBLES is no longer for only women to get together; men are welcome to join. TMake sure to bring hubbies! We are looking for fun activities for WOMBLES, so if you have any suggestions, please let us know!! Gracias everyone, see you all at next WOMBLES! Keep your eye out on BAMBI’s Facebook page and sign up for BAMBI’s enewsletter for updates!
46 • May 2018 BAMBI Yard Sale Raises over 24,000 for Second Chance Bangkok Text by Faye Wheeler, Photos by Azusa Uchida
Sunday 25th March saw another busy and successful Yard Sale, this time in aid of Sec- ond Chance Bangkok. St Andrews International School Bangkok generously hosted the sale at their Primary Campus, with over 35 vendors and our guest charity tables from Second Chance Bangkok, Roy Rak Beading and Central Thailand Mission. SDoors opened at 9.30am with a queue around the corner with lucky shoppers snag- ging numerous bargains. From table fees and entrance donations, BAMBI raised over 24,000 for Second Chance Bangkok, an organization that supports women from Khlong Toei through providing employment in upcycling donated items to sell. For more information or to request a pick-up of items you want to donate, visit: www. scbkk.org. Thank you to everyone for your support. The Yard Sale will return soon!
BAMBI Ekkamai Playgroup
Text by Bao Minh Lam Photos by Azusa Uchida
BAMBI would like to thank Shayne from Bright Skies International School for host- ing our popular playgroup every Thursday. Circle time with storytelling and singing Bis always a highlight for the children and parents.
BAMBI EKKAMAI PLAYGROUP: Thursday, 9:30–11:30am. For children aged 0-5. Bright Skies International School: House 11, Ekkamai Soi 6, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Car park available at Big C, near the school in Soi 6. Donation per family: 100 for BAMBI members, 300 for non-BAMBI members. For more info: ekkamaiplay- [email protected]
www.bambiweb.org • 47 BAMBI Welcomes New Members
Aimi Murayama Jiranun Khamnan Miho Takeshita Ratima Chaikriangkrai Tanya Perdikou Amy Sombun Jirapa S Miki Matsuzaka Ratima Sewakapanich Tapanee Songsee Angela Young Jonah Kadish Minyoung Myoung Ratsamee Veerataveeporn Teena Suwannate Angelina Tarning Julia(Rep) Beucke How to becomeMio Nagura BAMBI MemberRatsamee Veerataveeporn Tharunda A Angkana W. Julia Gonchar Miyuki Nakayama Rawinporn Chotpakdeetrakul Ting Yin Lee Aoi Miura Julien Fitte Montri Panklang Reiko Miyazaki Tipawan Durand Atsuko Hirata Junko Kuroki Nachita Kositnantakul Reina Maeda Tomoko Nishizaki Aut Bukaew Kae Hazama Narumon Wipajaroen Rie Inomoto Tomoko Nishigaki Aya Oshima Kamonrat Ladseeta Nat A Rikako Matsuzawa Tomoyo Tomishige Ayami Mitsui Kanae Nishi Nataporn Boonthawatchai Rina Wongpanich Varunee Suwannapit Chayutipa Phantarat Kanokon Boonmas Nattawadee Pisuthipun Risa Onishi Veerayada Premprasai Chiho Nakayama Kaori Sawada Natthanisha Sethaporn Rofida Labdaoui Wannapa Jitaree Chisato Igawa Keiko Namba Natthawat Thanyakulthip Sabrina Evangelista Weerawan Orapimphan Chompunoot Leenasiri Kiyomi Suzuki Nichapha Thanasarnpattana Sachie Otani Weerutai Wongprasertsri Do Joon Kunlathida Rattahanawaraha Nicole Weinberg Salin Suralertrungsun William Woo Donyell Johnson Kyoko Saito Nipa Pattanajindawuttikul Sheikha Wesdy Wingman Hirose Fion Chan Lisa Ito Nuthatai Chotechuang Shiori Nishioka Yoriko Eguchi Gaëlle Bovy Mai Chalitaporn Nutthida Imumnuaylap Shoko Shimizu Yu Inagaki Harumi Kuramoto Maiko Nakamichi OiLeng Yen Sirikwan Netiphat Yu Fang Tiao Helen Clarke Maitri Raimangia Pan Mayteedol Sirinthorn Bhamornsiri Yui Fukumoto Henriette Heckler-Ferenczi Mari Uchiyama Panchalee Suratanachaikul Soyoung Kim Yuki Fukumoto Hisaka Muramatsu Matchaya Benghomari Panteera Rungsiriwitun Sripattra Thajchayapong Yuliya Gonoratska Iyose Sugiyama Mayuka Horikawa Pattanan Manosuthi Stephanie McCourt Yuri Saito Izumi Ando Mayumi Horiuchi Pranee Kasemsarn Supamas Siengjaew Jaki Laird Megumi Mitanda Rachael Ratican Supatra Masakrum Jennifer Edmonds Melinda Wu Rachael Walker Suporn Charoennawarat Jenny Brown Miharu Suzuki Rachel Tooth Takako Toyama
May Birthdays HOW TO BECOME A BAMBI MEMBER New Members Renewing Members 1st Birthday Kay Takeuchi May 02 1,100 1,000 Sebby Nathikanchanalab May 13 ANNUAL DONATION (THB) Petcharawalee Aswarangtikhun May 15 ONLINE ENROLLMENT OPTION On BAMBI Website On BAMBI Website Signing Up 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org. Login to 2. Register by providing details under 2nd Birthday your member profile Members > Join BAMBI Now Ella Wongleecharoen May 09 2. Under “My Membership”, click on 3. Make payment using Bank Transfer* Noah Sejersen Mesiano May 13 “Renew” bu`on and send details to BAMBI as explained Lino Poncelet May 16 3. Make payment using Bank Transfer* under Bank Details below Taramas Tuksinvarajan May 31 and send details to BAMBI as explained under Bank Details below 3rd Birthday Membership AcAvaAon 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your membership to be acAvated in BAMBI renewal to be acAvated and reflect on Bunai Mananat May 10 Eliott Teter May 14 system and to receive an email your online profile. You will receive an Nicole Chioza May 23 confirming it and sharing details of email confirming renewal logging into your account 2. Remember to update your address
2. Login to your account to update under your membership account on 4th Birthday address to receive your membership BAMBI website in case it has changed Sara Takeuchi May 02 card and BAMBI’s monthly magazine to receive your new membership card
OFFLINE ENROLLMENT OPTION At Playgroups/Events/New Member 5th Birthday At Playgroups/Events Coffee MeeAng Yunosuke Igawa May 04 Joseph Lecat May 23 Signing Up 1. Register at the BAMBI welcome desk 1. Renew at the BAMBI welcome desk by by paying in cash paying in cash 6th Birthday 2. Receive membership card on the spot 2. Receive your new card on the spot 3. Be sure to also take your 6 digit Francesco Rinaldi May 04 “renewal code” in order to acAvate David Gazeau May 14 membership online 7th Birthday Membership AcAvaAon 1. Wait for up to 14 days for your 1. Visit www.bambiweb.org Emma Foster Montenegro May 07 membership to be acAvated in BAMBI 2. Login to your member profile system and to receive an email 3. Under “My Membership”, click on Sophie Farnworth May 30 confirming it and sharing details of “Renew” bu`on logging into your account 4. Enter the 6 digit coupon code 8th Birthday 2. Login to your account to update 5. You will be able to view the renewed Aayan Kapur May 14 address if you wish to receive the free membership details copy BAMBI’s monthly magazine 9th Birthday Yam Daniel May 26 *BANK DETAILS
10th Birthday Bank: Thanachart Bank; Branch: 489 Ekamai ; SWIFT CODE : THBKTHBK Ryan Svensson-Nielsen May 03 Account No. : 489-2-40200-6 Account Name: CHILDBIRTH AND or FOUNDATION CHILD (as shown on ATM/online banking screen) 13th Birthday Agam Daniel May 13 Please transfer the relevant amount (1100 or 1000) to this account – you can use online bank transfer or pay through ATM in Thailand. Drop an email to [email protected] along with a[achment of 15th Birthday proof of transfer (scan or photo of transfer slip). Please do not have your bank send us transfer Chloe Petch May 24 no\fica\on directly - we will not know who made the payment and cannot ac\vate your membership.
48 • May 2018 Member Discounts Flash your BAMBI Card and enjoy special discounts, now in Pattaya area too!
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.
BANGKOK AREA CONTACT: Jas Urban Srinakarin (3rd Floor), planning to include 2 one-on-one sessions for FREE. Srinakarin Road; Tel: 089-784-8332; CONTACT: Sophiene, www.sofitpregnancy.com BEAuTY Email: [email protected]; Facebook: @JumpingClayJasUrbanSrinakarin SPIN & SLICE: Tennis school and academy for kids and adults. APEX Medical Center: Specializing in total DISCOUNT: One can of Perrier mineral water free beauty solution and wellness LITTLE PEA: A space for families in the community for the first session and 10% off for a package of 10 DISCOUNT: Ploenchit and Thonglor branches only. to connect through multi-sensory play, fun activities sessions. Buy 1 get 1 free for Cool Scrupting; YAG Laser Hair and enriching food. CONTACT: Spin & Slice at the Fifty Tennis Club, Removal Armpit or Bikini Line for ฿990; Invisalign DISCOUNT: 10% off for both activities as well as Sukhumvit 50, Prakanong, Klongtoey; with 3D scanner and Virtual Photo for ฿170,000; and food & drinks at the cafe for BAMBI members. www.spinandslice.com Zoom Whiting at ฿7,890. CONTACT: Unit P1, Play Yard (2nd Floor) The CONTACT: Thonglor branch, Tel: 080-500-0123; Common, Thonglor Soi 17, Wattana, Bangkok 10110. THE LEADBETTER INDOOR GOLF ACADEMY Ploenchit branch, Tel: 085-000-0855. Tel: 02-712-5245 BANGKOK: Leadbetter Kids, Junior Golf School. Line: line.me/ti/p/%40apexbeautyglobal, Email: [email protected] Junior golf lesson, weekend class and camp, FB: @apexbeautyglobal. FB/IG: littlepeabkk Web: www.littlepeabkk.com provided to all levels, ages 3.5-18. Get physical with Asia's leading indoor golf academy located in Marriott JOHNY LIVE: Hairdresser stylist Hotel Sukhumvit Soi 24, taught by qualified PGA DISCOUNT: Free intensive hair mask from Matrix SING DANCE ACT & DESIGN with Musical Theatre pros. NYC with oil of apricot + a minimum of 10% discount for KIDS at The Hop in Silom: DISCOUNT: 10% off to all normal rates. Free 1 on all hair services, for all BAMBI members. Also, an Improve your child’s confidence, spontaneity and month family membership if register on the same day exclusive ‘BAMBI members only’ home service for creativity through song, dance and art, in a warm of free lesson. busy mums with only ฿500 extra charge. and supportive environment. For information on their CONTACT: Tel: 02-260-8818, benjaparn@ CONTACT: Tel: 087-105-1614, johnylive6@hotmail. workshops, please visit www.musicaltheatreforkids. lgabangkok.com or [email protected] com, www.facebook.com/Johny Live Hair. com. Suitable for children aged 6 to 10 years old. WHITE BALL ACADEMY: Take golf lessons from K NAIL LOUNGE: Manicure/pedicure DISCOUNT: 10% off all class packages. experienced instructors, or practice your game at this DISCOUNT: 10% off for any nail service ฿250-999, CONTACT: Kristen Rossi, indoor, state-of-the-art golf academy at Thonglor 18. and 20% off when it is above ฿1,000. [email protected] DISCOUNT: Free 60 minute group introduction to CONTACT: www.facebook.com/knaillounge. Asoke golf basics led by an instructor, a 10% discount on all branch - Soi 25, Sukhumvit Road (BTS Asoke or private lessons, 1 month FREE practice membership MRT Sukhumvit, exit by Citibank), Tel: 02-661-7289. FITNESS (available on weekdays, 8am-4pm). CONTACT: Tel: 02-714-9777, NICHE HAIR SALON AND NAIL SPA: High-class BANGKOK DOLPHINS: [email protected] hairdressing services, hair care and treatment along DISCOUNT: 10% off all swimsuits and in-store with nail spa and waxing services with qualified merchandise. stylists. English-speaking stylists and VIP private CONTACT: Soi Klang Racquet Club, Sukhumvit 49/9. Food room available. Tel: 02-712-9297. www.bangkokdolphins.com DISCOUNT: 10% off for all advanced-booking AMELIA STEWART: The founder of Cook First services above ฿1,000 (Code: bambiweb). Booking KIDDY-KICKS: Children aged 1 to 6 years are (www.cookfirst.co.uk/about), Amelia is a cooking via phone or Facebook. welcome to develop their soccer skills in various teacher, food writer and consultant. Amelia CONTACT: 3rd Floor, All Seasons Place, CRC venues around Bangkok. Free for toddlers under the specialises in—amongst other things—gluten-free, Tower, Wireless Road. Tel: 084-596-9546 or age of two; ฿380-420 for children aged 3 to 6 years dairy-free, refined sugar-free and vegan cuisine, and 02-654-3993. www.facebook.com/nichesalon.th old. has extensive experience working with all types of DISCOUNT: 15% discount on membership fees. food allergies. SATIRA: Spa products CONTACT: Tel: 085-806-6770, valentine@kiddy- DISCOUNT: 20% off for private cooking class DISCOUNT: BAMBI members receive 20% discount kicks.com or www.kiddy-kicks.com CONTACT: [email protected], on all items at Satira Shop FB: @BeKitchenConfident, Line: @cookfirst, CONTACT: 4th floor Siam Paragon Department Store LITTLE GYM: IG: @cook_first_ (opposite of Exotique Thai department entrance), DISCOUNT: 20% off membership fees, if register on www.satirathai.com the day of the free visit for all branches. CHARLEY BROWN’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT: CONTACT: DISCOUNT: 10% off when dining with kids Emporium Tower: Tel: 02-664-8994-5 CONTACT: Tel: 02-651-2215, EDUCATIONAL Central City Bangna: Tel: 02-399-5730-1 www.charleybrowns.asia Central Chaengwattana: Tel: 02-101-0200 MRS BALBIR'S: Fine Indian cuisine. Cooking classes AMAZE ENGLISH: Creative and fun lesson plans Central Rama 3: Tel: 02-673-5957 also available. with the objective of making our students ‘Learn Thonglor: Tel: 02-715-9445-6 English’ and not ‘memorize English’! DISCOUNT: 10% off on food (Sukhumvit 11 location only) DISCOUNT: 50% off for first time registration fee. LULLABY YOGA: Offers various styles of yoga CONTACT: Tel: 02-651-0498, CONTACT: Nita 081-904-2231, Minny 081-209-8982, classes taught by qualified Yoga Alliance Certified [email protected], www.mrsbalbir.com [email protected], Teachers. [email protected] DISCOUNT: ฿2,500 for one month unlimited SOFITEL SUKHUMVIT BKK: (44% off) and 10% discount on all yoga packages DISCOUNT: CURTAIN UP DRAMA: Drama, singing and magic (excluding drop-ins), first class is free. L’Appart Restaurant: 20% off for food only and classes for children (pre-school to 12 years old) at CONTACT: Mark, www.lullaby-yoga.com/home.php. Curtain Up Studio, Sukhumvit Soi 33/1. priority access for the Chef’s table Voila Restaurant: Buffet lunch ฿700 net; Thai DISCOUNT: 15% off all regular studio classes SOFIT PREGNANCY & BEYOND: Are you pregnant seafood dinner buffet, Sunday to Thursday evenings (excluding special camps conducted during school and want to exercise safely to help with your body ฿699 net; international seafood night market, Friday breaks). changes and prepare for a healthier delivery? Are and Saturday evenings, come 3 pay 2; Sunday CONTACT: Tel: 085-552-5806, Unit P1, Play Yard you a new mom and want to get your pre-pregnancy brunch 30% discount (2nd Floor) The Common, Thonglor Soi 17, Wattana, body back and get more energy? Sophiene is a Le SPA with L’Occitane: 35% discount on spa Bangkok 10110, [email protected] pregnancy and postnatal health coach specialist, treatments certified by the American Council on Exercise. He CONTACT: 189 Sukhumvit Road Soi 13-15, JUMPING CLAY: Specially-designed educational WILL help you to become happier and healthier. Klongtoey Nua Wattana, Bangkok, programs under the concept of "Learn through Play." DISCOUNT: 1 consultation and 2 weeks of workout DISCOUNT: 10% off for BAMBI members Tel: 02-126-9999
www.bambiweb.org • 49 Would you like to offer special promotions to our members? Please email us at [email protected].
STEPS WITH THEERA: A health-focused coffee portrait and Family shooting), with additional printing shop and cafe that also provides vocational training packages on demand (cards, calendars, etc.). Each shopping for adults with special educational needs. The menu of her bundle packages can be upgraded to fit your is diverse with options for those with and without needs. ENGINOU (Play & Learn): dietary requirements and a kids food and drink menu. CONTACT: Tel: 086-386-2245, info@ DISCOUNT: 15% off all merchandise purchased The cafe strives to create a community space that is stephaniebreton.com, FB: www.facebook.com/ at the physical stores, Wireless and Thong Lo, or accessible for everyone. BKKSphotography or www.stephaniebreton.com online, with the code bambionly, with minimum DISCOUNT: 10% off at the Ekkamai 10 and purchase of ฿1,000. Sukhumvit 42 branches only. WHO AM I ASTROLOGY WITH VICTORIA DAVIS: CONTACT: 3rd Floor, All Seasons Place, CRC CONTACT: 02-381-6590 DISCOUNT: ฿500 off comprehensive and predictive Tower, Wireless Road, or The Commons, Thong Lo Astrology Consultation Soi 17, 2nd Fl. Play Yard, Klongtoey Nua. CONTACT: Victoria Davis, Tel: 064-572- Tel: 081-989-0820, enginou.com HEALTH 0118, [email protected], www. whoamiastrology.com, FB: WhoAmIAstrology, GOOD FIND SHOP: ORIGINAL GIFTS FOR LITTLE BUMRUNGRAD HOSPITAL: IG: whoamiastrology PEOPLE: Imported educational toys, arts and crafts DISCOUNT: IPD and OPD visits: 5% discount for and products for kids by well-known US brands. credit card payment, and 10% discount for cash PARENT SUPPORT DISCOUNT: 15% discount (excluding promotional payment. items) CONTACT: Tel: 02-066-8888, CONTACT: Blue Hut on Sukhumvit Soi 38, ALESSANDRA MARAZZI RODEL, PCI CERTIFIED www.bumrungrad.com Tel: 081-817-3114, [email protected], PARENT COACH: Take part in an energizing www.Good-Find.com process that leverages the parent/family's strengths J-CLINIC: and resources to find solutions to everyday parenting DISCOUNT: 10% for treatment cost and machines NICK & NISHKA (KIDS CONCEPT STORE): challenges. Alessandra also offers parent education (except first visit, medicines), 10% for coupons DISCOUNT: 15% off all merchandise on minimum workshops integrating relevant research, coaching (physical treatment, Chinese medicines, acupuncture purchase of ฿1,000 (excluding promotional items). approach and group interactions. Coaching may take ) and 5% for athletes under the age of 23 years. Shop online at www.nickandnishka.com and use the place in person or via Skype. CONTACT: code BAMBIONLY at checkout. DISCOUNT: 10% discount to BAMBI members on Prompong 02-262-0831 CONTACT: For appointments to view collection, standard coaching and workshop fees. Thonglor 02-185-3433 orders or queries, email info@nickandnishka. CONTACT: Alessandra, 081-424-4220 or Ekkamai 02-115-8433 com or send a message via: IG: www.instagram. [email protected] www.facebook.com/jclinic.th/ com/nickandnishka, FB: www.facebook.com/ nickandnishka, LINE: @nickandnishka; KIDS HOME & FAMILY SERVICES: Nanny, maid MEDCONSULT CLINIC: Dr. Donna Robinson, a UK Tel: 097-106-0226 and babysitting services. physician holding a Thai medical license, heads this DISCOUNT: 10% BAMBI discount for hourly rate and family medicine/general practice clinic. Doctor and SUPERYARD THAILAND: Safe, non-toxic, portable daily babysitting services. ฿1,000 discount for the first clinic fees are not levied on vaccinations. indoor-outdoor play-yard made in the USA. It’s month of monthly babysitting services. DISCOUNT: 10% off all charges (includes foldable, and a versatile design, being size- and CONTACT: Khun Jin, Tel: 02-656-7024/5, consultation/doctor fee, vaccination costs, laboratory shape-adjustable. Suitable for children aged 6 www.thaikidshome.com tests/health checkups). months-2 years+. Authorized North States Superyard CONTACT: 3rd Floor, Racquet Club, dealer in Thailand. KIIDU: Sukhumvit Soi 49/9. Tel: 02-762-7855, DISCOUNT: Extra 20% off on top of clearance sale DISCOUNT: 10% discount for membership fee for www.medconsultclinic.wordpress.com price for all North States safety gates and extra 10% full-time nannies/maids, and 5% discount for on- off for Superyard play yards. Shop online at demand nannies/maid. PAINAWAY CLINIC: Pain relief through Japanese www.cheap.co.th or drop by the office in the Silom CONTACT: 63 Bangkok Ekkamai, 1323/2, Sukhumvit adjustment therapy. area. Rd. Watthana, Bangkok 10110. Tel: 097-234-8490/ DISCOUNT: Free 3D scan for foot or posture report CONTACT: Tel: 081-668-0303, [email protected] 097-246-8423. www.kiidu.com (normal price: ฿500) CONTACT: B1 Floor, Interchange 21 Tower, PARENT-IT-FORWARD: Creatively support and travel Sukhumvit 21, Asoke. Tel: 02-258-1361, enhance your personal parenting journey with a [email protected], PCI-Certified Parent Coach; re-connect with your BEACHFRONT: Child-friendly, 3-bedroom holiday www.painawayclinic.com, parenting voice and achieve greater joy, peace and rental in Rayong. Fully-equipped condo (170sqm) FB: painawayclinic fulfillment in your parenting. for short-term rental, 1km from the Novotel Rim Pae DISCOUNT: 15% discount when working together on a tranquil, palm-lined stretch of coast in Rayong SAMITIVEJ SUKHUMVIT AND SAMITIVEJ with a coach Province. SRINAKARIN HOSPITAL: CONTACT: [email protected], DISCOUNT: 10% reduction or ฿350 discount on the DISCOUNT: 10% off as follows: www.parent-it-forward.com nightly rate of ฿3,500 Outpatient: medicine, laboratory work and X-ray for CONTACT: Margo, Tel:+084-525-4105, self-pay SUPPORT FOR MOMS AND EXPAT WOMEN: [email protected] or Inpatient: room charges, medicine, laboratory work Professional development and career coaching www.beachrayong.com and X-ray for self pay with Tatiana Skovoronskaia, ICF ACC Erickson (excludes vaccination, CT, MRI, ultrasound, dental, Professional Coach. Achieving your goal and finding SAMET VIEW BEACH HOUSE: Family-friendly special devices and special medication. No discount your professional way. Tatiana is a personal- and holiday house (330sqm). Easily accommodating is available on insurance and doctor’s fees) professional-development coach, who helps expat 2 small families, this house is surrounded by lush CONTACT: Tel: 02-711-8181 women to change their life for the better. tropical gardens and is situated on the stunning Rim DISCOUNT: 30% on individual coaching session, Pae Beach. MISCELLANEOUS 25% on group sessions and coaching program DISCOUNT: 10% off daily rate (discount is exclusive CONTACT: Tatiana, Tel: 080-566-1026; Email: to family bookings only) BANGKOK SELF STORAGE: [email protected]; yourway.tilda.ws; CONTACT: Tel: 089-129-6494, DISCOUNT: 10% off storage units. Facebook: @prof.develop www.sametview.com or CONTACT: Tel: 02-261-1516 or Darrel: 086-888- [email protected] 5121, [email protected] PARTY SUPPLIES & DESIGN2U: A full-service web design company TRAVEL EASY ASIA: Not your average city guide. which focuses on customer satisfaction. Professional ENTERTAINMENT Our sets are small and compact, concise, durable and fluent in both web design and English. and bilingual. Just show and go. DISCOUNT: 10% off web design. BOUNCY CASTLE: Inflatable bouncy castle for rent. DISCOUNT: ฿200 off 3 or more TEA City Cards; CONTACT: Tel: 089-748-1073 or 081-488-9698, Suitable for children’s party. Cleaned and sanitized 10% discount (฿45) on individual TEA City Cards - [email protected] regularly. Rate is ฿3,500 and upwards, inclusive of Bangkok transportation and setup. CONTACT: Tel: 080-909-5131, STEPHANIE BRETON PHOTOGRAPHY: DISCOUNT: ฿500 (or about 14% for the least www.traveleasyasia.com or DISCOUNT: An exclusive discount of 10% + 1 free expensive castle) [email protected] A5 impression on her 2 bundle packages (Newborn CONTACT: Cheng, Tel: 081-869-0566
50 • May 2018 For businesses in the Pattaya area, please contact [email protected].
PATTAYA AREA FITNESS HEALTHUT: Providing all your organic & vegan food nutrition services under one roof. Super food BEAUTY powder, probiotic, kefir drinks & homemade cottage SELF DEFENSE PATTAYA: Learn to defend cheese. yourself. Overcome your fears. Get in shape. Be DISCOUNT: 10%, up to 15% off on superfoods, ESTHER BEAUTY & WELLNESS CENTRE: Facial more confident in yourself. Learn punch techniques, probiotic beverages and healthy snacks massage & spa treatment, hair cut, care, style and release from various grabs and strangulation, CONTACT: 206/118 Soi Town in Town, Central treatment, along with nail spa, manicure & pedicure psychological preparation & physical endurance. Road, Pattaya Klang, next to Harbor Mall, or order with qualified, English-speaking stylists. Servicing DISCOUNT: First class free, 20% off all classes online. Manee, Tel: 099-391-5664, www.healthut. ladies & gents. Also has beauty & whitening products. (class fee ฿300 per person) com, [email protected]. Servicing all over Thailand, DISCOUNT: 10% off for all services CONTACT: Oleg, Tel/LINE: 095-404-0060. check website for product range. LOCATION: 124/139 South Pattaya (behind Tamar Studio at Jomtien: Jomtien École Française School Bakery at Pattaya 3rd Road – use this for GPS) Chayapruek 1, Soi 4; or Joymax Studio Playground MISCELLANEOUS CONTACT: Ruth, Tel: 090-983-2947, LINE: ruth155 (Soi Siam Road). Private lessons also can be provided at your residence or chosen location. THAI BUSINESS HELP: Visa applications & Education renewals, visa run, 90 day report, extensions, PATTAYA FITCLUB: Tone up, burn fat & sweat to company setup, work permit application & renewal, keep fit & healthy. Learn about good nutrition and annual audit, social security & tax, accounting, SECONDHAND ENGLISH BOOKS FOR KIDS: good eating habits, or start with a nutrition program bookkeeping. Children's books, imported from the UK, new and with a certified wellness coach. Morning, evening & DISCOUNT: 10% discount. secondhand. Over 3,000 books to choose from, for weekend classes; zumba, yoga (adult & baby-n-mum CONTACT: Tel: 089-543-4424, 1 year of age up to teenagers. A mix of everything, group), kickboxing, TABATA HIIT and gym workout [email protected] and educational, story books, touch and feel, characters with a personal trainer available. Your little ones can www.thaibusinesshelp.com such as Peppa Pig and Disney. Also can post play in a child-friendly, carpeted play area inside the anywhere in Thailand. studio. Book a free body fat scan and evaluation. SHOPPING DISCOUNT: 5% off any books purchased DISCOUNT: First class free for zumba or TABATA LOCATION: 34/16 SP5 Village, Moo.2, Prompranimit HIIT, 10% for all other classes FRITZ SPORT WEAR: Providing you with high- Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150. CONTACT: JOYMAX & FUN Gym at Soi Siam area, quality, stylish & comfortable sportswear for yoga, CONTACT: Tel: 086-363-1458 or 094-442-3646 other locations available. Shinta, Tel/LINE: 098-402- zumba or gym wear. See Facebook page for current (Thai), Email: [email protected], 1693, FB: PattayaFitclub. Check our updates for and new collection, or contact us for your needs and FB: secondhandenglishbooksforkids schedules of classes & location. we will source for you. DISCOUNT: 15% off on every item Food HEALTH CONTACT: Katie, Tel: 081-862-0612, LINE: kittyi5, FB: Fitz Shop.
BBQ PRIME TIME ON SOI 9: Great food and BANGKOK PATTAYA HOSPITAL: A premier tertiary THE PARTY SHOP: Carries an extensive range of atmosphere. Al fresco dining with a lovely grassed healthcare provider, dedicated to international quality party and novelty items from balloons, party poppers, kid’s area with climbing frame and swing sets, and a and customer focused care. We are the first hospital party hats, banners, fancy dress costumes, party bouncy castle. in the Eastern Region with all the technologies plates, piñatas and toys. The Party Shop can also DISCOUNT: 10% and FREE juice or soft drinks for equivalent to those used in the major hospitals in arrange magicians, clowns, face painting, jumping kids when coming with family. Bangkok. castles and rides for your party – call or come in for a CONTACT: 248/Moo 12, Thepprassit Road Soi 9. DISCOUNT: chat to discuss your next event. Tel: 092-471-0604, [email protected], Outpatient: 10% off on pharmaceutical items, general DISCOUNT: 10% off everything in store FB: BbqPrimeTime. dentistry; 5% for prosthodontics treatment. CONTACT: Welcome Town off Pattaya Klang. Khun In-patient: 10% off for in-patient room rate (exclude Saa, Tel: 091-206-1316, FB: ThePartyShopThailand. MISS T'S CUPCAKES: Enjoy a cupcake or two with ICU, CCU and NICU), pharmaceutical items. their signature coffees or tea at the downstairs coffee Remarks: For cash payment only. Excludes all TOM K JUST BE ABSOLUT JEWELLERY: A shop, or 2nd floor where your children can play in a types of vaccination/special medicines and medical European jewelry designer. Handmade exclusive designated play area with toys & books to read, while investigation equipment (laboratory work, x-ray, fine jewelry, unique pieces or customer designs mummy & daddy relax in a cosy atmosphere. CT, ultrasound) or doctor fee. For self-pay only and made in traditional goldsmith workmanship. Private DISCOUNT: Buy 2 cupcakes get 1 free; or kids cannot be used with personal health insurance or showroom; can offer private jewels events at baking classes normal price ฿750, BAMBI member other promotional campaign, special discount, etc. customer side. ฿500 (see website for timings of the cooking classes). CONTACT: Tel: 038-259-999 DISCOUNT: 10% discount on non-sales or promotion CONTACT: 66/20 Pornprapanimit Moo 7, Soi Siam items. Showroom, jewels events: Host gets 15 % Road (near to KULL BAR & Apartment and Princess HEALTH & NUTRITION: Have your breakfast as on non-sales or promotion items, advance booking Saloon, before Planet Football). Tel/LINE ID: a shake, a healthy meal in a glass with a balanced required. Fairs, bazaars: please send email or find 091-795-7040, FB: MissTsCupcakesThailand, IG: Herbalife cellular nutrition. Great for busy mum & updates in Facebook. misstscakecreations, [email protected], toddler fussy eaters. Will help with healthy weight CONTACT: [email protected], www.misstscupcakes.com. management, lose weight, tone up, or just to be IG: tomk_just_be, FB: TOMKJustbe. healthy. Servicing all over Thailand by post, or have SUNNY’S RESTAURANT & BAR: Three distinct your wellness check at the shop. restaurants within one venue: an Isaan-style outdoor DISCOUNT: 25% off VIP Package. Receive a half BBQ for the most authentic somtam south of Isaan; pack of low-calorie protein bars for every order. a sports bar with great selection of pub food and Free body fat scan & evaluation (please book selection of draught beer; and the steakhouse. Kids appointment). can run free and play in the safe enclosed outdoor LOCATION: 124/139 South Pattaya (behind Tamar and indoor play area, or swim at the kid’s pool. Bakery at Pattaya 3rd Road – use this for GPS). DISCOUNT: 10 % off your bill for your whole family CONTACT: Shinta, Herbalife Ind. Distributor, CONTACT: Soi Map Yai lia 24 between Soi Tel/LINE: 098-402-1693 Neunplabwan and Soi Khao Noi.
www.bambiweb.org • 51 Support Groups
on the fourth Saturday of each month, group is run by a couple who have lost Pre- and Post-Natal Support 10am-1 pm at Kuppa, Sukhumvit 16. For children and aim to provide a space more information, visit www.facebook. where affected family members can Breastfeeding Support - Meena com/bangkokdoulas or email Rasee share and discuss the grief they are Sobsamai: Australian-trained childbirth Govindani, [email protected]. experiencing. For more information educator and lactation consultant. • Erin Kannon: Midwife, doula, please contact Nicole Lasas on 085- Contact: 081-776-9391, sobsamai@ breastfeeding consultant, childbirth 240-3803 or [email protected], or yahoo.com. Languages: English & Thai. educator. Gregor Former on [email protected]. Contact: [email protected], Breastfeeding Café Bangkok: BCB is www.bangkokbirthbeyond.com International Parenting Network (IPN) a breastfeeding support group – a place • Iasnaia Maximo: Birth and postpartum This is a parenting networking where women can meet, encourage and doula. Contact: [email protected], organization based in Bangkok, offering support each other with breastfeeding www.maedoula.com a wide range of parenting support issues. BFC meets every Thursday, • Rasee Govindani: Certified birth services to parents and childcare 9:30-11:30am, in the upstairs space of doula, postpartum doula, and childbirth professionals through events, seminars Dandelion Cafe, 919 Sukhumvit Road, educator. Thai-speaking. Contact: and workshops. IPN provides parents at BTS Thong Lo between Sukhumvit [email protected], with family-based resources, learning Soi 49 and 51. There will be a lacto www.doularasee.com opportunities, and effective techniques doula present who can offer advice and and strategies designed to support the individual support if required. For more Fertility Support Group raising of well-balanced children. For information please email bkkbfcafe@ This is a monthly group for those who more information visit www.ipnthailand. gmail.com. Facebook page: Bangkok wish to discuss fertility matters. The com, call 081-826-2399 or 093-112-9814, Breastfeeding Café. aim of the group is to create a meeting or email [email protected]. place to chat and share experiences, Bumps and Babies Bangkok: For and to offer support in a non-medical Nutrition Café pregnant women, new mothers and their framework. The group meets at 10am on Nutrition Café is for parents with babies babies, Bumps and Babies hold regular the first Tuesday of every month at D’ark and children of all age groups, that are presentations on topics pertaining to restaurant and cafe in Sukhumvit 49. seeking help in coping with their child’s pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding For more information email namaste@ nutrition, eating behavior or disorder, and the postpartum period. Bumps and namastenicolai.com. There’s also a to exchange experiences and get free Babies is also home to the BAMBI library secret group on Facebook: IVF Bangkok. advice in a relaxed atmosphere. Nutrition with many titles available to rent. A TENS To join, please email namaste@ Café takes place every 1st Saturday of machine hire is also available. The group namastenicolai.com with your Facebook the month between 10-12am at Steps meets every Wednesday except the link, or send a Facebook message to with Theera in Ekamai and is held by second Wednesday of the month, 9:30- Namaste Nicolai. nutrition specialists Anne Berends and 11:30am at Antique Café (Soi Sawatdi 1, Karin Biran. For more information, visit off Sukhumvit 31); and every 1st and 3rd Nutrition Cafe on Facebook or contact: Sunday of the month, 9:30am-12 noon, Parenting Anne Berends (Nutrition, Sensory and at Steps at Theera (29/8 Ekkamai Soi 10, Eating Behavior Scientist), Anne. Sukhumvit 63). Suggested donation is Adoption Support For Families In [email protected], and Karin ฿100 for BAMBI members and ฿300 for Thailand Biran (Nutritionist B.Sc MA.N, Eating non-members. For more info and to be There are many people in Bangkok who Disorder Specialist), Karinrai@gmail. added to the Bumps mailing list for details are adopting or have adopted a child. com. of forthcoming sessions, please contact For more information please contact Fran on [email protected]. Amanda Degler via the group’s Facebook Parenting Support Group page, ‘Adoption Support For Families In Alessandra Rodel, Parent Coach, Postnatal Support Group New Thailand’. hosts informal get togethers to discuss Moon: For all mothers and babies. parenting and challenges. The group The New Moon Team are there to Bangkok Area Homeschool Network will cover any topic that may be of support the transition into parenthood Group interest to parents of children 0-8 years through providing a supportive and If you are interested in homeschooling of age, such as: bonding, discipline, non-judgemental environment to share your child(ren) you can find many play, school advocacy, cognitive/social/ birth experiences and feelings about network groups on Facebook. For more emotional development, routines, motherhood. Meetings include a mixture information please contact Adeline Mills motivation, time management, etc. If of structured sessions with topics related at [email protected]. there's demand for other age groups, to evidence-based postnatal and baby please let Alessandra know. Sessions care, and some informal sessions. Bangkok Babywearing Club are held Fridays, 10:00-11:30am, Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30am. Antique This group aims to help parents and every two weeks (check schedule on Café, Soi Sawatdi 1, off Sukhumvit 31. children learn and celebrate the joys Facebook: www.facebook.com/Bangkok- Suggested donation is ฿100 for BAMBI of babywearing. You are welcome Parenting-With-Coach-Alessandra- members and ฿300 for non-members. to try on slings from our sling library Support-Group-535086600006703), at For more info please contact Emma on or get one-on-one help. For more Little Pea Cafe, The Commons, Thonglor [email protected]. information please contact Cari 17. Contact: ParentCoach.Alessandra@ Chou: bangkok.babywearing.club@ gmail.com. Please confirm your Doulas in Bangkok: If you are pregnant gmail.com. Visit the Facebook page participation at least 2 days in advance. and have questions about birth in for updates on gatherings: Bangkok Bangkok, need recommendations Babywearing Club. Pattaya BAMBI Group for doctors, hospitals and other care If you live in the Pattaya/Rayong area providers, or if you are considering Compassionate Friends and are keen to meet other BAMBI hiring a doula, come and meet some A support group for parents and other members, please contact the team at of Bangkok’s doulas at "Choices in family members who have lost a child or [email protected]. Childbirth," a free informal gathering children either post- or prenatally. This 52 • May 2018 There are a range of support groups in Thailand, which are run independently of BAMBI. Most are open to everyone, some ask a small donation and/or some ask for a reservation. Please contact the respective groups for more information.
Single Parents Support Group autism. For further information email see any solutions in your particular Are you a single parent who would like to [email protected]. situation, we provide support to achieve meet other single parents in Bangkok? your balance. This support group is led Please join our weekly coffee morning. Rainbow Room - A Special Needs by an Erickson Professional Coach. Depending on the ages of the children, Awareness Center Contact and registration: 080-566-1026 playdates can be organised as well. We This is a group of parents, family and or [email protected] (Tatiana). The group meet on Tuesday or Thursday mornings friends of individuals with developmental meets on the last Wednesday of the at the Starbucks in Sukhumvit Soi 23. For and behavioral special needs, who come month, 10am–12:30pm. Please email to more information please contact Sakshi together to raise positive awareness confirm the location. at [email protected]. Fathers and by offering information, education, mothers are all welcome! empowerment and encouragement Beyond Boobs through a “parent-to-parent” model. Founded by two breast cancer survivors, TWINS and Multiples Group Meetings for parents of children with Beyond Boobs offers information and This group provides support and contacts Down's Syndrome held every 4th support to breast cancer fighters and for parents who have, or are expecting, Wednesday of the month; meeting for survivors in Bangkok. The group hosts twins or multiples. There’s also a weekly parents of children with autism, every monthly support group meetings. For playgroup and a monthly dinner. The 2nd Thursday of the month. An inclusive more information, please see www. group is not just for English-speaking playgroup is held every 2nd and 4th facebook.com/beyondboobsbangkok or parents, they can provide support in Saturday of the month, at 11/13 Thonglor email [email protected]. French, Spanish, Portuguese, Thai, etc. 25 Sukhumvit 55 Wattana, Bangkok For more information please contact 10110 Thailand. For further information Bangkok Breast Cancer Support Group Jessica Pelham on 089-685-9615 or and to RSVP, please contact The (BBCS) [email protected], or look for Rainbow Room on 02-023-2396 or This group aims to provide personal the Facebook page: Bangkok Twins www.facebook.com/specialrainbow. attention as well as mental and emotional Group. support to women who have been Support Group for Parents with diagnosed with breast cancer. BBCS Moms Nights Out Dyslexic Children holds a weekly clinic at BNH Hospital to Open to all busy mothers - working or not This is a support group for parents with support women diagnosed with breast - WOMBLES meets on the last Tuesday children who are struggling with reading, cancer, and conducts outreach programs. of each month for a night out, including writing and spelling or those who are Monthly meetings are held every third dinner and a fun activity around Bangkok. dyslexic. Dyslexia in Thailand provides Thursday of the month at 10.00am at If you’re looking to try something new, information, support and solutions to the their office at the Queen Sirikit Center, expand your social network and meet families of children who are struggling Basement Level, Chulalongkorn Hospital, other moms for some evening downtime with dyslexia. For further information 1873 Rama IV Road. For more info, email sans kids, come join the monthly get please contact info@dyslexiainthailand. [email protected] and togethers. For more info please email com or visit www.dyslexiainthailand.com. [email protected], call 02- [email protected], or check out Any queries will be forwarded to qualified 256-4991~2, ext. 1026 or 085-908-8002, further details on the BAMBI Facebook specialised ‘Orton Gillingham’ teachers and www.bangkokbreastcancer.com. page www.facebook.com/BAMBIBangkok (there are only three in Thailand) who will be able to assist the parents or arrange a meeting. Special Needs
LEAP (Learning and Educational Support to Women Advocacy Program) This group serves as a point of contact Achieving Balance - Group Session for parents in need of support, referrals This is a supportive environment for To send in any updates or and information concerning their women living in a foreign country who are corrections to the listing children’s special needs, including interested in professional and personal details, please contact learning disabilities, developmental development. If sometimes you feel [email protected]. delays, sensory integration and defocused, frustrated or lost and don’t
TENS Machines for Hire The BAMBI Bumps and Babies team are now offering a TENS Machine Rental Service. TENS or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation offers a drug-free alternative to conventional pain relief in labour. Rental is available from 37th week of pregnancy for a maximum 35-day period. Cost: ฿400, plus a ฿1,500 refundable security deposit. Hire is subject to terms and conditions.
For more information, please contact [email protected].
www.bambiweb.org • 53
Playgroup and Activity Listings
BAMBI holds regular playgroups and activities around town, open to both BAMBI members and non-members. Please always check BAMBI’s online calendar before setting out, as our playgroups are run by volunteers and are occasionally subject to last-minute cancellations. Before going to a non- BAMBI playgroup, please contact the school/venue to confirm that it is open and the playgroup is running. We would love some help with our playgroups and activities, 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. Contact either [email protected] or [email protected], or if you are in Pattaya, [email protected]. Thank you!
only dedicated playgroup for babies, rollers International Kindergarten, 9/4 Ekkamai Soi BAMBI PLAYGROUPS crawlers and waddlers. Come along and have 4, Sukhumvit Soi 63. No need to register, just fun on the floor and make new friends. This re- walk in. Donation per family: ฿100 for BAMBI BAMBI playgroups are characterized by free laxed playgroup is a great way to socialise with members, ฿300 for non-BAMBI members. For play, and the use of school toys and play- your baby in a fun, stimulating and supportive any questions, please contact playgroupas- grounds. The donation per family for all BAMBI environment, whilst giving mummies the op- [email protected]. playgroups is ฿100 for members and ฿300 for portunity to make friends and have a much non-members, except where otherwise noted. needed coffee. Donation per family: ฿100 for SMALL WORLD BABY PLAYGROUP: New Members’ Coffee Mornings are free. You BAMBI members and ฿300 for non-members. Thursday, 9:30 –11:30am. BAMBI’s only dedi- can join or renew your membership at our Jumping Bean Cafe, 170/21 Soi Suan Phlu, cated playgroup for babies, rollers and crawl- playgroups and there is no need to reserve a Sathorn. Parking is very limited. For more in- ers. Come along and have fun on the floor and spot—please just come along! formation, email [email protected]. make new friends. This relaxed playgroup is Sukhumvit - Central: Asoke (Soi 21) to Ekka- a great way to socialise with your baby in a NEW MEMBERS’ COFFEE MORNING: Last mai (Soi 63) fun stimulating and supportive environment, Wednesday of the month, 9:30-11am. This is a whilst giving mummies the opportunity to make free session for new members to come along, BAMBI NOVOTOTS: Monday, 10am-12pm. friends and have a much needed coffee. Do- make new friends and find out more about For children aged 0-5. BAMBI’S first play- nation per family: ฿100 for BAMBI members BAMBI and living in Bangkok. Please check group at a hotel in Bangkok! With two pools, and ฿300 for non-members. Antique Café, for details on the BAMBI Facebook page. For the 55cm-deep toddler pool and regular pool, Soi Sawasdee 1, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Parking more info, contact: newmembers@bambiweb. there is plenty of space for parents and kids is very limited at the venue, which is a 10-min. org. 最近入会された方・入会を検討されてる方の to play together. Novotel provides towels for walk from BTS Asoke or Phrom Phong, or ために、毎月最後の水曜日午前９時半から１１時に use during the playgroup. Shower and change MRT Sukhumvit. For more information, email 開催。お子さんもご一緒にどうぞ。入場料無料、当 facilities available. The activities room is air- [email protected]. 日の入会も受け付けています。日本語でのお問い合 conditioned and suitable for non-walkers and わせは[email protected]へ。 older toddlers. There will be circle time, snacks BAMBI SUKHUMVIT 31 PLAYGROUP: for children, water and coffee. If you would like Friday, 10am-12pm. For children aged 0-5. Sathorn / Yen Akart / Silom to stay and have lunch, a heavy discount is Please come along for sand play, a cool gym available to playgroup attendees for the lunch playroom, fun garden, some snacks and circle BAMBI LITTLE BIRDS: Monday, 9:30am- buffet. Donation per family: ฿100 for BAMBI time with other kids and mothers. The First 11:30am. For children aged 0-5. Experience members and ฿300 for non-members. Novotel Steps International Pre-school, 58/2 Sukhum- our water and sun playgroup at the fabulous Bangkok Sukhumvit 20, 19/9 Soi Sukhumvit vit Soi 31, Yaek 4. Close to BTS Phrom Phong; Blue Parrot Cafe. Feel like you are at a resort 20. Free parking at hotel and free hotel shuttle shuttle bus service is provided. Donation per far way from Bangkok. There’s a swimming to entrance of Soi 18. Please contact playgrou- family: ฿100 for members and ฿300 for non- pool and plenty of Plan toys in the play area [email protected] for more details. members. Please contact suk31playgroup@ for children of various ages. Snack for children bambiweb.org for more details. and water, tea, coffee is provided. During and BAMBI SAWATDI PLAYGROUP: Tuesday, after the playgroup, all drinks and food orders 9:30-11:30am. For children aged 0-5. This DADDY’S PLAYGROUP: Please always receive 10% discount so you can stay and en- is a friendly and relaxed stay-and-play with check the dates on BAMBI's online calendar. joy lunch while the children continue to play. a soft and outdoor play area, circle time with Some Saturdays, 10:00am-12pm. Daddy's Blue Parrot Cafe, 50 Sathorn Soi 10, Sathorn. songs, and snacks. The IPC International Kin- playgroup for dads and their 0- to 5-year-olds! Nearest BTS Chong Nonsi is a 5 minutes’ dergarten, Sukhumvit Soi 31. Donation per The school has huge and nice indoor space walk. Donation per family: ฿100 for members family: ฿100 for members and ฿300 for non- for kids of different ages and a leafy garden and ฿300 for non-members. For more info members. Please contact sawatdiplaygroup@ setting outside. Donation per family: ฿100 please contact: littlebirdsplaygroup.bambi@ bambiweb.org for more details. for members and ฿300 for non-members. No gmail.com. need to register, just walk-in. Please show BAMBI EKKAMAI PLAYGROUP: Thursday, your BAMBI or ID card at the entrance. Bright BAMBI SATHORN PLAYGROUP: Every sec- 9:30–11:30am. For children aged 0-5. A weekly Skies International School, House 11, Ekka- ond Monday of the month, 10am-12pm. For welcome song will be followed by a free-play mai Soi 6, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Car park avail- children aged 0-5. Held at La Petite Ecole, a playgroup with snack. The last 15 minutes of able at Big C, 100m from the school. If you Reggio-inspired innovative school. The space the session is dedicated to singing/story time. have any questions please email daddysplay- is divided into learning centres: reading area, Bright Skies International School has a huge [email protected]. clay and playdough area, musical area, wa- and nice indoor space for kids of different ages ter play area, mud kitchen, and grocery shop. and a leafy garden setting outside. Bright Skies Sukhumvit - End (Bang Na, Samut Prakarn) Outdoors, there is a sand pit, sensory garden International School: House 11, Ekkamai Soi and path, and gross motor skills trail. Most ac- 6, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Car park available at Big BAMBI BEARING PLAYGROUP: Fridays, tivities are held in the expansive garden and C, near the school in Soi 6. No need to regis- 9:15-11:15am. Located within the purpose- covered veranda. There's plenty of shade but ter, just walk-in. Donation per family: ฿100 for built Early Years Education Centre in the we recommend that you bring hats along. Light BAMBI members, ฿300 for non-BAMBI mem- tranquil suburban surroundings of St Andrews snack and water provided for the children. La bers. For any questions, please contact ekka- International School Sukhumvit 107 (accessed Petite Ecole, 27/5 Soi Yen Akat 2/1 Sathorn [email protected]. from the Sukhumvit 107 entrance), enjoy free Yannawa. NO PARKING available. Donation play and create a freestyle masterpiece in our per family: ฿100 for members and ฿300 for NEW! BAMBI OISCATOTS PLAYGROUP: arts corner. There is access to the outdoor non-members. For more info please contact: Thursday, 9:30–11:30am. For children aged play area with bicycles, sandpit and trampo- [email protected]. 0-5. Storytelling by a teacher, dedicated craft line, finishing up with story-time and songs. time and singing/circle time. Dress up cos- The school entrance is located less than 200m SATHORN SMALL WORLD BABY PLAY- tumes, indoor play areas as well as large from BTS Bearing. Donation per family: ฿100 GROUP: Tuesday, 9:30–11:30am. BAMBI’s outdoor play area. Snacks provided. OISCA for members and ฿300 for non-members. If 54 • May 2018
you have any questions please email stan- drama, music and stories. Join us on a magical keep your child cool. Cost: ฿200 for BAMBI [email protected]. journey in Imagination Land. Together we will members, ฿400 for non-members. Free shut- read and create stories using imagination, sto- tle to Nana BTS after the session. Storytime Pattaya rytelling and music. Every month our adven- Preschool, 85 Soi Samaharn, Sukhumvit Soi ture is based on a new book or play where kids 4 (BTS Nana). For more info, check www. BAMBI PATTAYA PLAYGROUP & COFFEE do fun and educational games, sing songs, storytime-preschool.org or call 081-646-4535. MORNING: If you live in the Pattaya/Rayong and work together solving problems to reach Email [email protected] to get on area and are keen to meet other pregnant our destination. Donation per family: ฿200 for mailing list and receive updates on weekly ac- women or mothers with babies and toddlers, BAMBI members ฿400 for non-members. Bis- tivities and themes. please join us: tro 33 Sukhumvit Soi 33. Nearest BTS: Phrom First and third Monday of the month, Phong. Please register at activities@bambi- Sukhumvit - Central: Asoke (Soi 21) 10am-12pm. We have morning tea by the fan- web.org to Ekkamai (Soi 63) tastic kids pool area and there are plenty of pool toys, so please bring swimwear for your NON-BAMBI PLAYGROUPS LEGO PLAYGROUP: Monday to Thursday, child (and yourself if you like). Towels are pro- 10am-12pm. For children aged 2-5 years. vided and the donation includes light snacks Non-BAMBI playgroups are run by the school, Structured activities, where kids can have fun and beverages. Holiday Inn, No. 1 Beach not BAMBI volunteers, and are mostly struc- building Lego structures with games, activi- Road, Pattaya. tured where the school/center organizes ties and storytelling. A fun, hands-on way for Second and fourth Monday of the month, some activities for the participants. Flash children to develop basic skills in early literacy, 9:30am-12pm. BAMBINI group for newborn your BAMBI card and receive a discount at letter and sound recognition, fine motor skills and babies up to 18 months. At Miss T’s Cup- the following playgroups. Please check with and language skills. Snacks provided. Cost: cakes, 66/20 Porn Prapa Nimit, Moo 7, Pat- schools directly for any changes or queries ฿350 for non-BAMBI members; ฿250 for BAM- taya City. before attending. Some of these playgroups BI members. Reservations required at least For more info please contact bambi_pat- require reservation. one day before. Young Place Plaza, A-231 [email protected]. There are more non-BAMBI playgroups list- Second Floor, Sukhumvit Soi 23. Contact: ed on the BAMBI website and BAMBI’s Face- 02-662-3039 or 081-734-5872, kidsrobotics@ book page. Don’t forget to check them out! gmail.com, or www.facebook.com/kidsrobotic- BAMBI ACTIVITIES FOR slearningcenter. OLDER CHILDREN Schools who would like to add their play- group to this listing and our website, or update their details: please contact playgroups@ KIDS’ ACADEMY INTERNATIONAL BAMBI Activities for older children (please bambiweb.org. SCHOOL : Monday-Saturday, 9:30-11:30am. check each activity for age range) provide Structured playgroup for children aged 1 to 4 kids with opportunities for new experiences Sathorn / Yen Akart / Silom years. Each session is different but follows a and ways to develop their social and com- familiar pattern and routine. Participate in cir- munication skills in an international environ- GARDEN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Mon- cle time songs, listen to stories, make arts and ment. The aim of the activities is to be fun day, 2:30-3:30pm. Ages 8 months to 2 years. crafts, and get fit with yoga and dance. Outside while enhancing the healthy development of Activities include arts and crafts, circle time, are a racing track with cars and bikes, slides children’s bodies and minds. Suggested do- singing and movement and having fun! Cost: and swings. Snacks are provided for both chil- nations are listed with each activity. Activities Free. Garden International School, 34/3-4 Yen dren and carers. A parent or carer must stay require advance registration. We always wel- Akart Road, Sathorn. For more info please con- with the child throughout the session and is come new ideas and volunteers. Feel free to tact: Khun Pang on 02-249-1880 or info@gar- solely responsible for the child's care. Cost: contact us at [email protected]. denbangkok.com; www.gardenbangkok.com. ฿550, ฿400 for BAMBI members. Kids' Acad- emy International School, 52/1-2 Sukhumvit BAMBI FOOTBALL: For children aged 3-8. SHREWSBURY INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: 63, Ekamai Soi 2, Wattana. To reserve a place The 1st Monday of the month, 3:45-5:15pm. First and third Wednesday of the month during please call Ms Ivy, 084-071-1115, or for in- This activity is designed by Kiddy Kicks foot- term time, 1:15-3:15pm. Please call the school formation contact [email protected] or ball coaches to be fun and active. Children to check the schedule.น For children aged 1-3 www.kidsacademy.ac.th. 3-8 years old can enjoy practicing new soccer years. Make full use of the Early Years indoor skills while younger kids can play in SP Inter- and outdoor environment, and enjoy art and LITTLE EXPLORERS’ DEVELOPMENTAL national Kindergarten’s covered playground. craft activities, sand and messy play, books, PLAYGROUPS: Monday and Wednesday, Donation per family: ฿200 for BAMBI mem- music, construction as well as water play in the see www.littleexplorersthailand.com/play- bers, ฿400 for non-members. Seeh Phinong Splash Pool. Storytime and sing-along ses- groups for schedule. This toddler playgroup International Kindergarten, Thong Lor Soi sions led by Early Years staff. Refreshments focuses on the 5 developmental domains: 17, Klongton Nuea. Nearest BTS: Thonglor. and snacks provided for children and parents. communication and language, social and Please register at [email protected]. Cost: ฿300 per child, ฿100 per child for BAMBI emotional development, cognition and learn- members. Shrewsbury International School, ing readiness, fine and gross motor skills, EXPLORERS CLUB: For children aged 3-6. 1922 Charoen Krung Road, Wat Phrayakrai. and daily living skills. Facilitated by a teach- The 2nd Thursday of the month, 3:30-5:00pm. Free shuttle boat service from Sathorn Pier er or a developmental specialist, in English. Join us for music and movement, arts & crafts, (BTS Saphan Thaksin). For more info please Each child must be accompanied by at least games, story time, and opportunities to prac- contact: 02-675-1888, ext. 1404. one adult throughout playgroup time. Limited tice communication skills at BAMBI Explorers to 6 adult-child pairs per session. Reserva- Club! Children will have a chance to explore a Sukhumvit - Top (Expressway to Asoke) tions required. Cost: ฿500, 50% off for BAMBI range of activities in a bright, beautiful, indoor members. Little Explorers, 109/1 Soi Thonglor space and lovely garden outside. Donation STORYTIME PRESCHOOL: Monday and 5, Sukhumvit 55. For more information or to per family: ฿200 for BAMBI members, ฿400 Wednesday, 9:30-11:30am; and Thursday, RSVP, please contact info@littleexplorersthai- for non-members. Bright Skies International 3- 4:30pm. Bring along your little ones from 8 land.com. School, House 11, Ekkamai Soi 6, Sukhumvit months to 3 years old for some fun and well- Soi 63. Nearest BTS: Ekkamai. Car park avail- planned semi-structured 'Mum & Me' time. SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL able at Big C, near the school in Soi 6. Please (Nannies/daddies are welcome.) Along their OF BANGKOK, TOTS PLAYGROUP: Mon- register at [email protected]. motto of 'When We Play, We Learn', fun & day, Wednesday & Friday, 9-11am. An activi- practical activities held following different ty-based toddler programme for children aged IMAGINATION LAND: For children aged 5-8 themes each week. The huge shaded garden 12 months to 3 years old, offering engaging (registration required). The last Monday of is one of our favourite spots; chilled purified activities that toddlers love! Music and move- the month, 3:30-5:00pm. Explore the world of water pipelines are installed in the garden to ment, storytelling, arts and crafts, water-sand www.bambiweb.org • 55 Playgroup and Activity Listings sensory play, outdoor play, literacy and numer- Sukhumvit - End (Bang Na, Samut Prakarn) house and reading corner. Space for parents to acy games. Snack included. Cost: ฿450/ses- relax and enjoy refreshments. Children's food sion (฿4,500 for 11 sessions); for BAMBI mem- PLAYFUL PANDAS PLAYGROUP ST AN- and DIY snacks available for purchase. Cost: bers, ฿350/session (฿3,500 for 11 sessions); DREWS SUKHUMVIT SOI 107: Tuesdays, ฿200 for BAMBI members and ฿480 for non- buy 10 get 1 free. All sessions in English, but 8:30–10:30am; and Thursdays, 1:30-3pm, for members (2 free adults per child). PlayStation- includes a Chinese period. Singapore Inter- children from walking age to three years old. Kidz Club, 3rd Floor, The Nine, Rama IX Rd., national School, at Pracha Uthit, Ekkamai and Engage in sensory play, creative activities like on the main road in front of Soi 41. If you come Suvarnabhumi campuses. Tel: 02-714-4099, messy art, dress up, music and rhyme and by the expressway, get off at Srinakarin exit. It Email: [email protected], Facebook: small world toys to develop gross and fine mo- will take you down to Rama IX Rd. The Nine will www.facebook.com/sisbekkamai tor skills. Places are limited to 12 per session, be on your left hand side, around 100m after and only one adult per child can join. Cost: ฿350 the exit. For more info please contact: 081-696- OISCA INTERNATIONAL KINDERGARTEN per session; ฿250 for BAMBI members. Locat- 1219, 02-716-7950 or playstation.bangkok@ PLAYGROUP: Wednesday, 9:30–11:30am. For ed 20m from BTS Bearing in a self-contained, gmail.com. children aged 1-4. Variety of activities such as purpose-built Early Years Education Centre. circle time, storytime, arts and crafts, playdough Sign up by contacting 02-393-3883 or Khun Tip Minburi center, singing and dancing. Outside play area at [email protected]. has slides, monkey bar and sand pit. Snacks GERMAN PLAYGROUP “SPIELZWERGE” provided for children. A parent or carer must Phayathai / Paholyothin / Ari / Lad Prao at RIS Swiss Section – Deutschsprachige stay with their child throughout the session and Schule Bangkok: Monday and Wednesdays, is responsible for their child’s care. Cost: ฿300, JOHN’S INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Thurs- 2:30-4pm. German-speaking playgroup for ฿150 for BAMBI members. 9/4 Ekkamai Soi day, 9.30-11.30am. For children aged 0-3 children aged two to three years. Play, read 4, Khlongton Nua. Contact: oiscainquiries@ years. A structured playgroup with free play, books, sing, and create with your child in a car- gmail.com, Tel: 02-381-9852. some structured play activities and use of the ing and friendly atmosphere, with a small group school's well-equipped playground. Cost: ฿250 of 7 to 10 children under the supervision of an THE MUSICAL MICE PLAYGROUP AT - 50% discount for BAMBI members. St John’s experienced German-speaking group leader. BANGKOK PREP SCHOOL: Tuesday and International School, 1110/8 Viphavadi-Rangsit Accompanying parents do not need to be able Thursday, 9-11am. A preschool music lesson Road Latyao, Jatujak, Bangkok (Phaholyothin to speak German. Price for the whole semester for kids 6 months up to 2 years old, run by a MRT). For more info please contact: Kwan on (approx. 35 sessions): ฿11,900; 20% discount British music specialist. Cost ฿450/lesson, 02-513-8575, ext 109, [email protected], for BAMBI members (or pro rata, if entered after ฿100 off for BAMBI members. Bangkok Prep or wiki.stjohn.ac.th/groups/playgroup/. the semester has started). RIS Swiss Section- International School, 23 Sukhumvit 53 (next to Deutschsprachige Schule Bangkok, 6/1 Ram- Thonglor BTS). Contact: 02-260-7890; for more Huay Kwang / Rama 9 / Bangkapi kamhaeng 184 Road, Bangkok. For more info, info: www.bkkprep.ac.th/news/playgroup-53/; please contact: [email protected] online registration: www.bkkprep.ac.th/musi- KIS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL: Monday-Fri- www.ris-swiss-section.org; 02-518-0340, ext. cal-mice/. day, 10am-12pm. For children aged 6 months-4 120, or 095-506-3670. years and their parents. Structured playgroup PRECIOUS LEARNERS WORLD NURS- with singing, dancing, arts and crafts, story- Thonburi / Taling Chan ERY AND KINDERGARTEN: Wednesday & time, free play and snack. Nannies welcome Friday, 10am-12noon. For children aged 1-6 on Mondays and Wednesdays. Free pick-up/ KENSINGTON INTERNATIONAL KINDER- years. Funtastic thematic playgroup run by a drop-off service from Ekkamai BTS station on GARTEN: Tuesday, 1:45-3pm. For children teacher and assistants. Theme-based activi- Tues, Thurs and Fri (please contact school for aged 1-2 years. Activities include painting, sand, ties include story time, role play, arts & crafts, details). Cost: ฿400 - 50% discount for BAMBI water and playdough in our creche classroom water play, sand play, sensory, trampoline, bi- members. KIS International School, Kesinee and sand pit. Snack and refreshment provided. cycle/car track, puppet show, music, dance and Ville Estate, 999/124 Pracha-Utit Road Huay Cost: ฿300 – 50% discount for BAMBI members. more. Includes snacks and drinks. Children get Kwang (located one block north of Rama 9 Kensington International Kindergarten, 88 Bang- to take their artwork home. Cost: ฿500 per ses- Road and east of Asoke-Rachadapisek, MRT prom, Ratchapruek Rd, Talingchan. Please re- sion, special package ฿4,500 for 10 sessions; Thailand Cultural Center). For more info please serve your spot by calling 02-864-9977. For 50% discount for BAMBI members. Reserva- contact: 02-274-3444, [email protected] or www. more info please contact: [email protected] tion required at least 1 day before. Precious kis.ac.th. or www.kensington.ac.th. Learners, 32 Soi Sukhumvit 62, Yaek 1, Bang Chak, Phra Khanong (BTS: Bang Chak - take THE REGENT’S SCHOOL, BANGKOK, Rayong exit 4). Contact: 02-052-6849/097-094-0439, BABY AND TODDLER GROUP: Monday, www.preciouslearnersworld.com, Facebook: 2-3:30pm; Tuesday, 9-10:30am; Friday, ANDREWS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL - preciouslearnersworld, Instagram: precious- 1-2:30pm; and Saturday 9-10:30am. For chil- GREEN VALLEY, RAYONG CAMPUS: Mon- learnersworld. dren aged 10 months-3 years. Come and enjoy day and Thursday, 1:30-3:00pm. For children the soft play area, arts and crafts, music time, aged 0-5. Structured playgroup with singing FIRST STEPS INTERNATIONAL PRE- outside play and also 'splash time' on a Friday. and dancing at the beginning. Shaded outdoor SCHOOL: Thursdays, 10-11:15am. For chil- Drink and light snack included. Children must play area with a trampoline, a sand pit and a dren aged 8-30 months. Structured English attend with their parent/nanny. All sessions bike track, as well as an air-conditioned indoor playgroup run by teaching staff. Main activities conducted in English. Cost: ฿200 for BAMBI area with a dress-up corner, drawing, painting change each week, including arts and crafts, members and ฿400 for non-members. The Re- and playdough, dolls corner and mini kitchen. splash day, storytime, puppet show, music, gent’s School, Bangkok, 601/99 Pracha-Uthit Run by a highly-qualified and well-known dance and cooking. Use of the school grounds Road, Wangtonglang. For more info/reserva- teacher with over 20 years’ experience, Ms Ret- after playgroup has finished. Includes snacks tion please contact: 02-957-5777, Ext 202 or no Cheah. Cost: ฿150 for non-members - 50% and drinks. Free tuk tuk pick-up and drop-off [email protected]. discount for BAMBI members. St. Andrews service from Soi 31 RSU building (please call International School, Rayong, 1 Moo 7, Ban- for details). Cost: ฿450 - 50% discount for PLAYSTATION KIDZ CLUB: Monday, 10am- chang - Makhamkoo Rd, Tambol Samnakthorn, BAMBI members. First Steps International Pre- 1pm. For children aged 1-5 years. Enjoy indoor Banchang, Rayong. For more info please con- school, 58/2 Sukhumvit 31 (Soi Sawasdee) Yak playground activities and facilities including tact: 03-803-0701, www.standrews-schools. 4 (BTS Phrom Phong or Asoke). For more info climbing and sliding, trampoline, toddler play- com or [email protected]. please contact: 02-260-3152, info@thefirst- ground, and sandpit, as well as arts and crafts, steps.ac.th or www.thefirststeps.ac.th. playdough, education game zone, imaginative
56 • May 2018 BAMBI Team 2018 BAMBI is managed by an elected committee of volunteers and all BAMBI members are encouraged to volunteer. Vacancies can be found on the BAMBI Needs You page in this magazine and are posted online; you are welcome to contact [email protected] with inquiries.
Patron Non-Voting Positions Playgroup Leaders Mel Habanananda: [email protected] Activities Assistant Honorary Members Dhruvika: [email protected] BAMBI Playgroups are made possible Paula Young by members who volunteer as Leaders. Advisor Anna Ingham (Bumps & Babies Founder) Simmi: [email protected] You can get in touch with them with any Kathy Leslie questions about the playgroup, or to Ravit El-Bachar Daniel BAMBI News - Assistant Editors help out! Jinae: [email protected] Voting Positions Hina: [email protected] Abby: [email protected] Bearing Chairwoman Rika: [email protected] Ashima: [email protected] Amanda, Ploy, Mami Akiko: [email protected] [email protected] BAMBI News - Deputy Editor Vice-Chairwoman Ema: [email protected] Emma: [email protected] Daddy’s BAMBI News - Japanese Editor Jonah Secretary Rie: [email protected] [email protected] Azusa: [email protected] BAMBI News - Photo Editor Mao / Azusa: [email protected] Ekkamai Treasurer Mari: [email protected] Naoko, Machiko, Miho BAMBI Pattaya Coordinators [email protected] Azumi / Rani / Shinta / Syeda: Activities Coordinator [email protected] Mark: [email protected] Little Birds Bumps and Babies Co-Coordinator Aurelie, Anh, Aswathi, OiLeng Emma: [email protected] BAMBI News - Editor [email protected] Donna: [email protected] Charities Assistant Chiaki: [email protected] Charities Coordinator Sawatdi Faye: [email protected] E-Newsletter Maitri, Nupur, Victoria Mia: [email protected] [email protected] Database Coordinator VACANT: [email protected] Events Assistants Asya: [email protected] Sukhumvit 31 Naoko, Takako Events Co-Coordinators: Anette: [email protected] [email protected] Party Events Japanese Coordinator Emi: [email protected] Akiko: [email protected] Sathorn Yard Sales Faye: [email protected] Member Benefits Coordinator Saeko Mint: [email protected] [email protected] New Members Coordinator New Members Assistants Uta: [email protected] Emi / Mieko / Shoko / Yoshiko: Novotots [email protected] Yuko, Julia, Annette, Moriyo Playgroups Coordinator [email protected] Bao: [email protected] Playgroups Assistants Mao: [email protected] Ploy: [email protected] PR/Media Coordinator Small World Sathorn Mia: [email protected] Promotions Designer Chayuda, Chris Adi / Maiko: [email protected] [email protected] Website Coordinator Frey: [email protected] Thai Coordinator Vana: [email protected] Small World Sukhumvit Voting/Exofficio/By-Invitation Helen, Chiaki Treasurer Assistants [email protected] Naoko: [email protected] Bumps and Babies Co-Coordinator Yaz: [email protected] Website Assistants BAMBI Pattaya Nayo Shinta, Mush, Rana [email protected] BAMBI News is the non-profit monthly WOMBLES Coordinators newsletter of Bangkok Mothers and Sharon / Victoria: Babies International. It is distributed [email protected] OISCATOTS free of charge to members. Editorial Mao, Ako contributions from members are [email protected] welcome. Where possible, please submit articles and photographs by email directly to our BAMBI News editors. Please send editorial enquiries to [email protected].
Advertising enquiries to: The views expressed in the articles in Advertising in BAMBI News - Finn Balslev 081-866-2577, 02-943-7166-8 ext. 116, this magazine are not necessarily those Fax: 02-943-6618 [email protected]; of BAMBI committee members and we Artwork enquiries to Scand-Media Corp., Ltd. Tel: 02-943-7166 Ext: 106 Dao assume no responsibility for them or their Fax: 02-943-6618 [email protected]. effects.
www.bambiweb.org • 57 Member Profile Meet Donna Dias Manuel
Moving to Bangkok from Mumbai, au- thor Donna Dias Manuel splits her days between writing and being a stay-at-home mom to her ‘ball of energy’ daughter.
Where are you from and what’s your nationality? Can you tell us about your life back home? I’m an Indian national by birth and have lived in Mumbai for Wthe most part of my life. Back home I worked as a marketing professional across finance, media and advertising. I’ve lived in Bangkok for three years now and this city has grown on me; I call it my home away from home.
Can you tell us something about your career and work? And what about your spouse? I recently donned the author’s hat and made my debut as a women’s fiction author. Bangkok provided me with the op- portunity to be a stay-at-home mom and I began writing once again, this time for public reading. I’m currently working on my think I loved Koh Samet the most. There is a particular stretch second novel; it’s an exciting phase of my life. of beach where you can see beautiful fish up-close simply by My husband works in supply chain and it’s his work that walking into ankle deep water, because of which my toddler brought us to Thailand. had a delightful snorkelling-without-a-mask experience.
Please tell us a little bit about your family. What were your first challenges when you arrived in I have a three-and-half-year-old daughter who is a ball of en- Thailand? ergy. In Bangkok, it’s just the three of us, although my husband The language was my biggest challenge. I got lost on my and daughter would love for me to say yes to a dog. Thank- second day in Bangkok and although I was barely five min- fully our condo rules don’t allow pets, so I’m not the horrible utes away from my condo no one could direct me home (the one saying NO. one-way driving confused me completely and I could not tell which street was mine). I still don’t know Thai but I manage What do you miss the most from your country? well with eighteen Thai words, Google maps and the Google I miss Indian street food. Bangkok does have some great In- Translate app. dian restaurants but eating Indian street food at a fine dining restaurant just feels a bit odd. I also miss free home delivery of How did you find out about BAMBI? groceries: it’s the simple small luxuries of life that you take for I did some secondary Internet research looking for expat forums granted when you have them but long for when they’re gone. when I came across BAMBI. I made my first closest friends in Bangkok at a BAMBI playgroup (First Steps @ Soi 31 will Can you tell us a bit about your routine here in Bangkok? always be close to my heart). I am a morning person and wake up by 5:30am. That is the time I do most of my creative writing — blog/novel. Once my Are there any specific suggestions you can give to BAMBI’s daughter and husband are out of the house, I go for a walk or new members here in Bangkok? to the gym to get a bit of exercise, which is followed by some Some days are particularly hard when you’re away from fam- more writing. Evenings are solely for my daughter. I’m a huge ily and friends, and staying in and brooding may seem like the Netflixer and I’m slowly trying to wean myself of it. I read most best option, but it’s on those days that you need to put on a nights before I hit the sack. smile and step out with your little one. A change of place helps change perspective, even if it means just stepping out to the What do you love most about Thailand? What parts of Thai- nearest park or playcentre. BAMBI playgroups are wonderful land have you travelled to, and where did you enjoy the most? if you’re looking for some physical activity for your little ones I love Thailand’s spicy cuisine and the beaches, of course. and grown-up company for yourself. And if you feel you’re up I’ve travelled to Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Krabi, Kanchana- for a little more, volunteering for BAMBI activities is always a buri, Khao Yai, Had Chao Samran, Hua Hin and Rayong. I great way to keep you mentally stimulated. 58 • May 2018 Happiness lives here. Happiness is key to success. Our personalised approach to education inspires ambition, achievement and life-long enthusiasm for learning. We offer a world-class British international education to students aged 2-18, and are a member of the world's leading premium schools organisation, Nord Anglia Education. www.standrews.ac.th INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BANGKOK