Parents' Guide Mar 2015 by Education Post

PARENTS’ GUIDE MARCH 2015

Contents

COVER STORY

Fit for purpose Carrie Chan

SCHOOL FOOD

DOCTOR’S ADVICE

SCHOOL VISIT

CELEBRITY PARENTING

FINANCE

Time to junk convenience foods Ruth Benny

Heeding the perils of air pollution Carrie Chan

p.4

School that fosters a sense of community Vickie Chan

Precious moments Vickie Chan

Saving up the pennies for your children’s education Chris Davis

p.22

32 | CHILD FRIENDLY

Putting the bounce into children’s play Vickie Chan

38 | GIFTS FOR KIDS Easter essentials Carmen Tao

42 | FAMILY FUN TIME

p.26

Events and activities

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COVER STORY

Fit for purpose Schools in Hong Kong are using every tactic they can to motivate students to get in shape through sports and exercise, writes Carrie Chan

Photo: iStockphoto

PARENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GUIDE 2015

COVER STORY

Photo: Nora Tam

espite Hong Kong children’s busy schedules, more schools and parents are motivating them to strike a healthy balance by boosting fitness in every part of their school lives.

March was declared its sports month, during which the whole school has been encouraged to play sports. Everyone, including teachers, students, staff and parents has been logging their kilometres in running, rollerblading, dragon-boating and swimming.

These schools are not only widening the variety of sports training during physical education classes and break times, but also disseminating ideas about healthy living in other classes. All teachers are also encouraged to be role models by taking charge of sports classes as extracurricular activities.

The school’s initiative is a bid to offer support for its pupils’ first participation in the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) Games, where they will compete with worldwide schools in a variety of sports.

The need to boost our children’s fitness was widely discussed earlier this year when the University of Hong Kong (HKU) reported that SAR pupils and students were far less fit than their peers in mainland China and around the world, with more than a quarter being overweight or obese. Researchers believe schools’ and parents’ focus on academic performance had led them to neglect exercise. Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong was quick to respond to the phenomenon.

Every week, the school offers three 45-minute Physical Education (PE) classes – compared to two at other schools. Traditional playground games such as skipping and hula-hooping are also integrated as part of recess. To advocate a holistic approach, teachers in personal and social health also discuss the importance of being fit, helping students set individual targets on wellness. According to the school’s principal, Brian Cooklin, sports is one of the main areas of focus at Nord Anglia.

THE HEALTH ISSUE

COVER STORY

“We believe that sports and fitness are fundamental to a healthy lifestyle for children,” he says. “It is one of the subjects that really opens doors and it can boost the confidence and self-esteem of every child.” At Sha Tin Wai Dr. Catherine F. Woo Memorial School, teachers started to notice their students’ weight problems a few years ago. Now, the children’s average weight is already a few percentage points below that of other Hong Kong youngsters. Last year, the school received the Chief Executive’s Award for Teaching Excellence in Physical Education. While the 40-minute PE classes only take place two times per week, Cheung Mei Yee, head of the PE panel, says exercise is integrated into daily school life. Like Nord Anglia, the school also works with its general education teachers in advising students on daily diet and nutrition.

Photo: iStockphoto

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Each class takes turns to run for 20 minutes after morning assembly. During break times,

the school divides the playground into mini, themed sections for various sports such as soccer, basketball, and indoor cycling. In PE classes, students often work in pairs in circuit training to keep track of their progress and check each other’s positions. “We hope students can truly understand what effective training means by measuring their heartbeat,” Cheung says. Both schools are keen to introduce a wider variety of extracurricular sports activities by including less common types of sports. Even non-PE teachers host sessions, to help boost children’s’ enthusiasm. At Nord Anglia, the choices range from traditional activities such as badminton, to unusual options like yoga, fishing and Highland dancing. David Lee, the parent of a nine-year-old boy and a six-year-old girl, says he couldn’t agree more with setting role models for the children. When his children started walking, he already

COVER STORY

carried them with him on his weekly volleyball routines as “observers”. These days, his children have already developed a healthy routine of cycling or playing football for 30 minutes every day after school. At weekends, they also go to the sports ground for running or badminton. Striking a balance between sports, homework and other interest classes is not easy. But Lee is a strong believer in advocating sports as a form of play and a release for tension. It is also beneficial to academic performance. “Exercise and health are directly linked,” Lee says. I strongly believe that it will benefit them physically and psychologically,” he said. “It will also reduce their academic pressure. After exercising, their attention span [in studying] is usually longer.”

SPORTS AND FITNESS ARE FUNDAMENTAL TO A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE FOR CHILDREN

Benefits of physical activity for young children Physical

At Nord Anglia, Cooklin says homework is tailored to the students’ age and abilities so that “it won’t take too long”.

• Promoting the growth of muscles and bones • Promoting cardio-respiratory endurance • Enhancing immunity • Developing motor skills in preparation for engagement in sports activities in later years • Preventing chronic diseases such as hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes

Psychological

“We are very open with pupils and their parents about how important it is to balance academic work with sports, playing, eating well and getting a good night’s sleep,” Cooklin explains further.

• Building up self-conﬁdence and self-esteem • Learning and building of sportsmanship • Enhancing willpower and perseverance • Shaping the sense of self-worth • Learning to control emotions • Relieving anxiety and pressure

Social

• Strengthening communication and presentation skills • Promoting creativity and imagination • Developing a sense of responsibility • Learning to observe rules and respect others

Yoga trainer Jenny Smith, who last year trained English Schools Foundation (ESF) PE staff in teen yoga, says more schools are aware of how yoga can be an additional form of fitness and mindfulness training, as well as a booster for academic performance. It can be suitable

Source: <<Physical Activity Guide for Children Aged 2 to 6>>, Department of Health

THE HEALTH ISSUE

COVER STORY Quick check: The charts below can help you assess if the weight of a child is appropriate for height.

WE HAVE CHILDREN WHO ARE OVER-SCHEDULED WITH SO MANY AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Mark the height and weight of the child in both axes of the chart; then extend upward and rightward from the two markings respectively for an intersection point. (Note: the subjects of the original study were Chinese children) Weight in Kg

Girls Weight For Height

60 for students who do not enjoy independent fitness endeavours such as running.

50 40

Depending on students’ needs, Smith has designed specific focus-based poses to help increase learning. “[Parents] have reduced their physical exercise opportunities, with fewer parks and gardens in which they can play. We have children who are over-scheduled with so many after-school activities that they are very rarely given any down time to relax their minds and bodies,” she says. “[Other things such as electronic devices] distract and detach them from social and personal creative endeavours which a generation ago would have been prevalent.” More ESF schools are now offering yoga as part of regular wellness programmes or after-school activities. For instance, Smith teaches at South Island School, where the yoga class has doubled in size since last school term. She has also noticed that some kindergartens have started to introduce mother-and-child yoga classes. Unlike other types of sports, Smith says yoga is a time for students to relax their minds so that they can release stress from their bodies. Michelle Sham Kin-seng, a clinical psychologist specialising in children and families, agrees with the importance of sports and play in the development of Hong Kong children who generally “don’t have enough enjoyment time”. However, she also emphasises that the activities should not be outcome-based. (continued on page 10) PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

30 20 10 0

90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165

Height in cm

Median weight - for height

Normal body weight

Overweight

Under weight

Boys Weight For Height

Weight in Kg

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165 170 175

Height in cm

Median weight - for height

Normal body weight

Overweight

Under weight

*Source: Growth Survey 1993, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Department of Health

COVER STORY

“If the activity is for [fulfilling] teachers’ requirements, or building up a résumé, it is not for enjoyment,” Sham says. “If the sports activity is for competition, the children will feel as if it is an obligation, unless they really enjoy it. But if the parents encourage them to only try their best, this can build the children’s self-esteem.” However, in many of her clients’ cases, most Hong Kong parents might feel uneasy about letting their children take part in “unstructured activities”. “They would think that their children are not putting their time to good use. They would rather that they read books,” Sham says. “As a result, even when the children have play time, it feels like attending classes.”

Sham suggests that parents need to maintain a good balance between homework, sports, play and family time. For instance, parents and children can make a habit of taking a stroll after dinner for at least half an hour. On weekends, they should also engage in some form of sports together, to help train up their physique as well as enhance their relationship by bonding over a shared activity or even learning something new.

PARENTS NEED TO MAINTAIN A GOOD BALANCE BETWEEN HOMEWORK, SPORTS, PLAY AND FAMILY TIME

“Generally Hong Kong parents invest too much in simply training the children, who don’t [necessarily] feel that they’re loved. This is due to the fact that the activities are performance-based, not relationship-based,” Sham says. (continued on page 12)

The winning team from Sha Tin Wai Dr. Catherine F. Woo Memorial School at the 5th Asia Teeball Elementary Schoolchild Championship

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Are Your Children Oxbridge Material? They Can Be. U Unbeknownst to most parents, Oxbridge and Ivy League universities look for students who display evident capacity for creativity and independent thinking. These institutions pride themselves in how well they prepare students for the challenges of real life. Therefore while entering students all boast high grades and impressive scores on entrance exams, universities are most curious about how applicants think – are they creative, reflective and original? These qualities all influence a student's future success much more so than good grades alone. Parents who plan to position their children for admission into leading universities must immerse their children in environments that teach them to apply their academic abilities to formulate opinions and freely experiment with ideas. The call for the integration of creativity in education is not new but its relevance is more deeply felt now than ever. “Creativity,” as Sir Ken Robinson famously pronounced in the most watched TED talk of all time, “is as important as literacy.” Students and faculties at Oxbridge and Ivy League universities would nod in perfect unison. Sadly, Hong Kong students rarely get the opportunity to prepare for the learning culture at prestigious institutions. In her experience, Chai Beal, who advises families on U.S. admissions and teaches Rhetoric at iTHINK, observes that her students hesitate when they are asked to come up with their own ideas. "I work with straight A students," she says. "But when I ask them to experiment with new ideas, they start to panic." This is a perplexing phenomenon because Hong Kong students do not lack in aptitude at all. The OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) ranks Hong Kong second in reading, second in science and third in mathematics in the world. Yet according to Bloomberg's “Rankings of The Most Innovative

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Countries in the World 2014,” only our Asian neighbours made it into the top 10. South Korea ranked first, Japan fourth, Singapore seventh and Taiwan took the tenth place. Hong Kong ranked 27. Comparing our educational culture to that of innovative South Korea, it is curious to note that our fellow Asian tiger has made it a point to promote the benefits of combining academic skills with creativity. Just this past November, World Bank Group President Dr. Jim Yong Kim delivered a keynote where he talked about the urgency of leveraging human capital to innovate. He reiterated that integrating creativity with education is key to economic growth. This prescient speech not only helps explain the Bloomberg rankings (South Korea surpassed the United States) but also underscores the fact that the twenty first century is governed by a new kind of competition. To thrive, our youth cannot only be book smart because fresh ideas have become the new currency of their generation. Recognising the advantages of creativity, Hong Kong parents are shifting towards educational concepts that produce well-rounded students who are strong in academics and creativity. Evidence of this turning tide has been apparent at iTHINK whose Critical Thinking Courses are gaining in popularity as parents search for educators who can give their children an authentic taste of what to expect at elite institutions. Oxford literally "throws unusual problems at you and tells you to solve them," recalls Oxford graduate and iTHINK founder Florence Ip. "They care first and foremost about whether you can think. If you're only good at studying, it will be hard to do well at the interview." The same is true across the Atlantic. Chai remembers the intellectual rigour at Columbia University. "My classmates came at problems from unexpected angles. If you’re only good at repeating what you learned, you’ll feel like you don’t belong.” Students at iTHINK engage in debate and dialogue with their instructors while they learn to generate original perspectives. Others practice using spatial reasoning to solve math problems in a whole new light. Conducted in small groups, these classes provide personalised attention that hones unique strengths and overcomes individual weaknesses. When they are given the freedom to assume leadership and take risks, students discover their dormant ability to step up, try new things and speak up. "We know it's working when previously indifferent kids become so impassioned they stand up to give an impromptu speech," Chai says. "It's magical to witness their transformation." New ideas have rapidly changed the world around us and the changes will only accelerate. To adequately prepare the next generation, parents and educators must provide the space, access and attention required to maximise their creative output. In his book The Element, Sir Ken Robinson tells us, “The fact is that given the challenges we face, education doesn’t need to be reformed – it needs to be transformed. The key to this transformation is not to standardise education, but to personalise it.” We know South Korea is on board. Thankfully, Hong Kong parents are also catching on.

iTHINK Education www.ithink-education.com.hk (852) 2234 4038

COVER STORY

Sports

smorgasbord

Text: Carrie Chan

ha Tin Wai Dr. Catherine F. Woo Memorial School has taken a big leap in training its children in the last few years, despite its limited sports facilities.

The school mainly uses its playground and school hall for exercise. For swimming classes, the students are taken to other pools. However, this has not affected the school’s determination to build up students’ motivation to exercise. Over the past few years, it has overhauled class structures and introduced incentives for students to get fit. Most importantly, school chiefs hope such motivation can become habitual as time passes. “We want them to know how to apply it in their daily lives. We have a [fitness] journal for them. Even during holidays, parents can check their progress,” Physical Education (PE) panel head Cheung Mei-yee says. In their PE classes, children take part in circuit training which includes indoor cycling, sit-ups, press-ups and skipping. Students act as peer trainers while teachers act as observers in class. There are also other core muscle training exercises involved. “We encourage peer teaching as the quality of exercise is higher,” Cheung says. Incentives are in place to promote healthy living. Students are encouraged to collect stamps by bringing fruit and snacks to school. Obese students are given certificates after they have finished six weeks of rigorous training and meet their health and fitness targets. Out of 12 types of extracurricular sports activities, Cheung says that tee ball, a simplified version of softball and baseball, has become an increasingly popular selection both during classes and after (continued on page 14)

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

COVER STORY

COBIS training team at Nord Anglia

school. It is, however, a relatively unusual sports activity in a Hong Kong primary school.

over 5,000 square feet of space for basketball and volleyball courts and a mini-sprint track.

Over the past year, the school has won at least four tee ball championships in primary-level competitions.

This month, Nord Anglia picked 14 physically strong students to undergo rigorous training in swimming, athletics and football for the COBIS Games in Athens.

“Tee ball involves different tools at different weights, which can be good for students of various sizes and ages. The sport also involve the training of fundamental movement such as throwing, hitting and body co-ordination,” Cheung says. The school has also installed a three-metre high climbing wall, which is especially good for students with special needs and those who lack muscle strength. “Most importantly, we want to build up students’ resilience through these exercises,” Cheung says. At Nord Anglia International School Hong Kong, international collaboration is a key highlight of sports development. Students enjoy a larger campus space – with the upcoming addition of a 25-metre swimming pool and PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

To encourage creativity through physical activity, it also collaborated with the Juilliard School in New York on an arts education programme which combined the synergy of dance, music and drama. Their children have also been invited to join Manchester United football camps at the club’s family schools in China. As Nord Anglia principal Brian Cooklin explains, the pupils learn from other children’s strategies and experience various levels of sports. Both schools also promote healthy eating as a major element in maintaining wellness and counsel students not to bring candies and sugary drinks to school. They also offer a range of salads, sandwiches and fruit. Cheung says that her school does not even have a snack shop.

WE WANT TO BUILD UP STUDENTS’ RESILIENCE THROUGH THESE EXERCISES

An education feature brought to you by YCIS

f the many components in a child’s education, which is the most important? At successful schools many factors are intentionally taught and encouraged. Schools that advocate multiple aspects should have intentional programmes catering to these important areas. If parents ask, during a school tour or through a pre-entry interview, about the programmes and educational objectives, this shows their long-term vision for their children and a keen sense of appreciation of the learning journey. Parents should be encouraged to stay active partners with their child’s learning; involved and aware along the journey, ready to share at any given time. Social philosopher Eric Hoffer once said,

“In times of change, learners inherit the Earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped, to deal with a world that no longer exists.”

A Joyful Journey Rather than a Final Destination What Hoffer understood is that people who are committed to lifelong learning those he calls the “learners” will develop such an advantage in life, and the world will belong to them. It stands to reason that these ‘lifelong learners’ will be the ones who are able to adapt, reinvent, relearn and transform themselves in a future where the only certainty is change. East meets West A recent article in the South China Morning Post (3 November 2014) reported that a school in Portugal was introducing compulsory Mandarin classes for its students; seeking to prepare students for future trade opportunities with China. This type of forward thinking is an example of the type of advantage parents and schools are seeking in a competitive world. Yew Chung International School (YCIS) is well known for its (English based) fully international curriculum and comprehensive Chinese (Mandarin) programme, alongside and complimenting each other. It is true that in addition to learning a fully international curriculum, students become fluent readers, writers and speakers of Mandarin. While YCIS believes that fluency in both English and Mandarin is important, this goal carries through to culture appreciation too. YCIS is special, and proud of the fact that there is a difference. In her book, “An Introduction to International Education”, Dr. Mary Hayden writes that, “YCIS is a unique grouping of international schools,” and that, “YCIS may be

among the only international schools that are truly international.” Recent visiting teams from Council of International Schools (CIS) and New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) quoted, upon recognition of the awarded accreditation to YCIS:

“The visiting team recognises the school’s strong level of commitment to internationalism/ inter-culturalism, which is clearly evident in the Vision, Mission and Educational Objectives. These are living documents which permeate every aspect of school life.” January 2015 The heart of YCIS rests in its style of education. Our graduates are consistently telling us that they feel incredibly prepared for university and for the world around them, even though they are at universities or working all over the world. As an Education Foundation, we are excited to see and hear of the significant contributions our students and alumni will be able to make in the future. What we know, is that our YCIS students are well-placed to take full advantage of their ability to consider world issues from multiple perspectives, to communicate with people in manifold languages, to work in teams with people who think in different ways, and who have flexible mindsets so that learning new things is no longer a chore, but a joy. Matthew Nicholson Co-Principal YCIS Hong Kong (Primary)

SCHOOL FOOD

Time to junk convenience foods Schools should stop providing empty-calorie fare of little nutritional value, and instead offer students attractive, healthy ‘rewards’, writes Ruth Benny

Photo: Edward Wong

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

SCHOOL FOOD

he Education Bureau (EDB) has various schemes to encourage healthy eating in schools. April 2015 is “Joyful Fruit Month”, and the campaigns Startsmart and Eatsmart aim to educate students as well as parents and teachers. In the local curriculum, the general studies and physical education syllabi include topics on healthy living, starting in K1. This is largely replicated in international schools too. Schools are making an effort to teach students about making healthy food choices, but in the end it still does come down to parents and children. Chris Lord, head of food technology at Island School of English Schools Foundation (ESF), says: “Pupils can choose to bring in their own food from home, and while the caterers do still offer less healthy options, the pupils can only be given the information and hopefully, they will make the right choices.” Two caterers, Chartwells and Sodexo, have contracts with most international schools to serve hot lunches. Both companies serve good quality food and also offer education sessions to students and parents. Yet, many

SCHOOLS ARE NOT SHY TO INTRODUCE A ‘NO NUTS’ OR ‘NO SODA’ POLICY OR A ‘MEATLESS MONDAY’, YET THEIR RELUCTANCE TO COUNTENANCE A ‘NO CANDIES’ POLICY MAY BE DOWN TO PARENTS schools have no provision for hot lunches and instead students bring lunch from home. Unfortunately, schools are not exactly practising what they preach. In one school, Grade 1 students visit a supermarket for a field trip to support the maths curriculum. While teachers and parent helpers are concerned with helping children maximise value for money, the quality of food purchased is extremely poor, such as candy and crisps. Common practices that run completely counter to what’s being taught in the curriculum include cupcakes for birthdays, junk food for parties at Lunar New Year and Christmas, tuck shops and vending machines selling sodas, crisps, candies, instant noodles, processed foods and chocolate. Bus mothers offer children candies, and students taking the school bus are rewarded for being quiet and well behaved with as many as five a day. While many international schools contract quality caterers, other schools order hot lunches from outside providers with very poor quality meat in dishes, and canned or packet sauces which are high in sodium.

THE HEALTH ISSUE

SCHOOL FOOD

Photo: Xinhua

At least one very reputable, local kindergarten orders McDonald’s on special occasions. Even more worrying is the fact that a few primary schools use a candies-based reward system for students. Recently, when one parent wrote to the school and the South China Morning Post to complain, the school immediately stopped the practice. What can parents ask schools to do to support healthy eating? Schools must implement alternative reward systems: school “money”, house points and principals’ pencils are all viable alternatives successfully employed in schools such as Victoria Shanghai Academy and Canadian International School. While many schools seem reluctant to follow suit, a “zero candies” policy works very well at Casa Dei Bambini and International Montessori School. Schools are not shy to introduce a “no nuts” or “no soda” policy or a “meatless Monday”, yet their reluctance to countenance a “no candies” policy may be down to parents. PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

ESF Kennedy School banned cakes, cookies and crisps in the classroom several years ago, yet the rule was ultimately relaxed after parental feedback. In December, Island Christian Academy banned the provision of unhealthy food for birthdays and celebrations. Suggestions for healthier choices include fresh fruit, sandwiches, chicken or fish pieces, satay sticks, vegetable crudités with dips, sushi or homemade cookies and muffins. While it’s standard practice in many secondary schools, including ESF Sha Tin College, to have a week that promotes health within the school, this practice is not so widespread in primary schools. Laura Paul, founder of Healthy Living Asia Magazine, is in discussions with schools to encourage as many as possible to designate one week before the end of the school year “to encourage children to eat real, healthy, whole food and remove candies and cakes from the classroom”.

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“The IB programmes give students a rigorous, inquiry-based education that fully prepares them to be successful in whichever university course they choose,” Daley says.

Thanks to the full support of the Canadian and Chinese governments, ISNS has grown significantly over the last decade or so from an initial enrolment of around 80 students. Established in 2002, it is a Canadian K-12 international school, which now follows the New Brunswick curriculum. In working towards becoming an IB World School by the autumn of 2016, the overall goal is to create a learning environment which is student-centered, collaborative, co-operative and, to a certain degree, experimental.

In recent years, ISNS graduates have won places at such prestigious institutions as Harvard, Cornell, UC Berkeley, the University of Toronto and King’s College, London. Obtaining both a Canadian and an IB diploma also helps to increase the options. The new campus will include boarding for grades 7 to 12 and, this year, the school is also introducing a new nursery programme starting at 18 months. In general, teaching staff are drawn from around the world, are fully qualified and, where necessary, will have completed all the required IB training. “Currently we have around 300 students as we believe the teacher-to-student ratio for each class should be kept low,” Daley says. “However, the move to a larger campus will allow us to increase student numbers while still providing small class sizes.” The new location has space for outdoor track and field facilities, a playground, indoor swimming pool, fitness centre and a full-size gymnasium. In addition, the campus will have computer labs, a media centre, dance studio, music rooms for practise and ensembles, photography dark rooms and gallery space. “With all this, individuals will have many opportunities to participate in extracurricular

ocated on Long Yuan Road, near Shenzhen’s Overseas China Town, the school is introducing the IB (International Baccalaureate) curriculum at all levels, including the PYP (Primary Years Programme), MYP (Middle Years Programme) and DP (Diploma Programme). In due course, that means students will be able to graduate with dual IB and Canadian high school diplomas and, along the way, benefit from small classes, encouragement to excel, and every chance to achieve their potential. “As from August 2015, we will have a new state-of-the-art campus, incorporating the latest technology and providing a world-class curriculum for students,” says ISNS vice-principal David Daley. “We are an internationally-minded and caring school, offering an affordable alternative to Hong Kong, while still providing the same range of activities and opportunities available to residents there.”

activities whether in sport, music, art, clubs, student council or community service projects,” Daley says. “We will have a more spacious and greener environment at the new campus, while Shenzhen itself is now a very green city, with a host of outdoor activities and close proximity to Hong Kong affording easy access to facilities there too.” For anyone interested in applying, the recommended first step is to speak to a member of the school’s admissions team or, if possible, stop by for a campus tour and the chance to put questions and gather further information. Depending on the age of the prospective student, there will be assessments in mathematics and English to determine general levels of ability. Children hoping to enter the nursery and kindergarten programmes do not have to take any such assessments. Besides that, interviews are usually conducted with potential students as well as their parents. ISNS is ready to accept new joiners throughout the year and, consequently, there is no set period or deadline for applications. “It is an exciting time to be an educator and to be working at a school such as this,” says Daley, who over the past 30 years has been a classroom teacher, a resource and methods specialist and a principal in various countries around the world. “For me, it is always a delight to see young people develop their potential, their talents, skills and personalities.”

ISNS 2015 New Campus

DOCTOR’S ADVICE

Photo: Jonathan Wong

Heeding the perils of air pollution Doctors warn that symptoms such as sleeping and breathing difficulties, if left unattended, can damage a child’s healthy development, writes Carrie Chan

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

DOCTOR’S ADVICE he impact of air pollution on children’s sleeping quality, emotional well-being and school lives has been underestimated, says an ear, nose, throat specialist.

quality can also be compromised. “Air pollutants will cause their noses to be congested, swollen and runny. He [or she] really cannot concentrate on school work,” Chow says. “It will affect short-term memory too.”

Dr. George Chow, a specialist in the upper respiratory system for over two decades, says that the public health educators needed to alert parents of how Hong Kong’s poor air quality could trigger sleeping disorders and emotional swings.

When breathing is interrupted, children may experience disturbances in the sleeping cycles and tend to “toss around and produce a heavy breathing sound”.

“At night time, [the child] tosses around. When he or she wakes up, he will be very tired and show a lot of emotion”, he says. “But most parents might think that this is just a behavioural problem.” Earlier this year, half of the 15 air quality monitoring stations in the city recorded “serious” levels of pollution. Over the past decade, Chow has also received more and more patients suffering from reactions to poor air quality. He says that at least 15 to 20 per cent of Hong Kong people experienced various degrees of respiratory allergies such as runny noses and irritated airways. Dr. George Chow

At his clinic, about 70 per cent of cases are children aged below 15. Children can be more vulnerable to air pollution as their respiratory system is not fully developed. Generally, the lungs, nose and the throat are the parts of the body most susceptible to air pollution. Dust, germs and viruses in the air can cause respiratory tract infections. In the long run, it will also be detrimental to their development, as the smooth passage of oxygen to the lungs and brains is inhibited. When the children need to use their mouths to breathe, there is a lack of a filtering system to trap the germs. School lives and sleeping

In some serious cases, these young children will suffer from a sleeping disorder called sleep apnoea. They may stop breathing at intervals, meaning the brain and the rest of the body might not get enough oxygen. “The heart needs to compensate more by beating [more],” Chow says. “Finally the heart will also suffer.” While the impact of air pollution can be far-reaching, he felt that many parents tended to hide behind the issue. “It is being underscored in this city,” Chow says. “When kids are reluctant to wake up, it may reflect something is going on with their health and quality of sleep. They need to be taken to the doctors.” However, he thinks that leaving the city is not a practical issue as children need a lot of exercise to develop healthily. “We have to strike a balance and it is not reasonable to keep children indoors,” he says. “However, parents do need to keep track of the air pollution indexes.” He suggests resorting to other means of controlling air quality such as air purifiers, air conditioners or good filtering systems of domestic and medical grade. Parents also need to be more concerned about maintaining hygiene in curtains, linen or any other domestic areas that can trap and accumulate dust.

THE HEALTH ISSUE

SCHOOL VISIT

School that fosters a sense of community

Photos: Discovery College

Lantau’s Discovery College teaches students to think for themselves while helping others, writes Vickie Chan

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

iscovery College is one of three international schools on Lantau, and is located in Discovery Bay, a bus ride from the ferry pier. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, and students as young as four can enter at primary level and continue until they are ready for tertiary education at 18. The only entry requirement is proficiency in English, although Putonghua is compulsory throughout the primary years, and secondary students can choose between Putonghua and Spanish. The school’s principal, Mark Beach, is proud of its achievements and talks passionately about the IB philosophy, which includes critical thinking, problem-solving and exposure to a variety of viewpoints. The purpose-built award-winning campus, which opened in 2008, is the architectural reflection of that philosophy. The U-shaped building, with a central covered courtyard used for break time, offers a sense of community, while junior students are at an advantage in sharing facilities usually found only in secondary schools.

SCHOOL VISIT The staff have worked hard to create a sense of oneness and the culture is palpable. “We have one staff, community and school. Our house system mixes all ages and our buddy system sees older students guiding younger students transitioning to secondary school,” Beach explains. Shared units require senior students to team up with students in the primary section to work together, for instance in reading or working on an art piece. The aim is for students to become skilled and knowledgeable, able to make a difference in the world. Service is an important theme and the friendliness throughout the school is obvious. At morning break, children run around in groups or sit and chat, all smiling happily. Beach approaches things from a community and relationship-based standpoint. “It’s about hard work, not just results,” he says, adding that the school has an approach of valuing all students. A dedicated learning team, plus six full-time learning assistants for each grade, identify whether children are excelling or having difficulties. “Support is inclusive, so

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SCHOOL VISIT

assistants are in the classroom, and while those who are struggling might have some different activities, we keep them together,” he explains. Two trained psychologist counsellors are available for added support and older students can self-refer. Staff contact is high – primary ages are with their teachers all day and secondary students see their learning adviser daily. Each year breaks down into four classes, six learning teams and has its own dean. Meanwhile, teachers carry a card to take notes for the process of dealing with any arguments or issues. “Our restorative relationship behaviour policy recognises when harm has been done, gets the victim and wrongdoer together to acknowledge the impact of harm, and work together to find a solution – this system can make huge differences to bad behaviour,” Beach says. Understanding relationship breakdowns gives students the tools to mediate, problem-solve and consider all the consequences.

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

UNDERSTANDING RELATIONSHIP BREAKDOWNS GIVES STUDENTS THE TOOLS TO MEDIATE, PROBLEM-SOLVE AND CONSIDER ALL THE CONSEQUENCES

SCHOOL VISIT

Mark Beach

Facilities which incorporate the latest technology are hidden within the neat complex A holistic approach sees the IB place an importance on the arts. “This helps kids in multiple curriculum areas and builds confidence,” says Beach, referring to a subject that is often overlooked in Hong Kong. Facilities which incorporate the latest technology are hidden within the neat complex. Apart from a heated indoor pool, the top floors house several top-quality workshops, from woodwork to 3D printing, art and design and a home economics kitchen. On lower levels, a theatre with professional lighting, two drama rehearsal rooms and a dance studio are complemented by a music workshop lined with instruments, and a recording studio. There is also a Mac Centre for laptop support and a wellness centre offering classes such as yoga for diploma-year students. “Our parents want their kids to enjoy learning at school. They want a safe environment that

gives their children the tools to be successful beyond school – to be social, educated, fit and healthy, emotionally firm and internationally minded. They want them to have a sense of the privilege that comes with responsibility,” Beach says. While most parents have high expectations of tertiary education, options such as the No Boundaries programme give students the chance to carry out interesting community work such as building schools in Cambodia, offering them a perspective on the world. With a complete philosophy, the best in facilities and a great environment managed by teachers, assistants and support staff, it’s hard to see how a student would not be happy and successful at Discovery College – and to top it all, there’s the advantage of the clean air that blows effortlessly throughout the campus from the waterfront beyond.

OUR PARENTS WANT THEIR KIDS TO ENJOY LEARNING AT SCHOOL. THEY WANT A SAFE ENVIRONMENT THAT GIVES THEIR CHILDREN THE TOOLS TO BE SUCCESSFUL BEYOND SCHOOL

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CELEBRITY PARENTING

Precious moments

Bonding with their boys is the key for Brandon and Jenny Chau, son and daughter-in-law of the late Chau Kai-bong.

PARENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GUIDE 2015

Text: Vickie Chan

CELEBRITY PARENTING

nown for being Hong Kong socialites, Jenny and Brandon Chau were both career-focused until they had children. Looking back, Jenny describes investment banking as having “bad hours”, but becoming a mother altered her priorities, as concern over the early years of bonding and education came first. Brandon feels that work has become important in a new way – he has a responsibility to provide for his family. Meanwhile, he strives to find as much time as possible to spend with his children.

How do you keep your balance between work and family?

Jenny: At first I found it hard to get the balance – I do charity work and other projects. I think our generation is encouraged to do more than just stay at home. I spend a lot of time with the kids, looking after them daily

and considering their education – but I do limit the number of dinners I go out for.

I THINK OUR GENERATION IS ENCOURAGED TO DO MORE THAN JUST STAY AT HOME

Brandon: I come home quite early if I don’t have to entertain clients, so I can eat with the family and play with the kids before they go to sleep. I try to read to them as many nights a week as I can, and at the weekend I take them to playgroups and find things to do together; we have two boys, so we schedule boy time.

What are the most precious family moments? Jenny: If Brandon is away, the boys sleep in my bed and are very sweet with me and tell me that they love me. Brandon: The boy time I have with them is very im-

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CELEBRITY PARENTING

portant to me, especially when it’s one-to-one – we really bond.

What are the pros and cons of being celebrity parents?

Jenny: The good thing is that my kids are exposed to different sides of life, but you don’t want your kids’ photos all over the place. We constantly worry about our children’s privacy. When go out we don’t usually take the kids. When they are older we will teach them that it doesn’t matter what is in the press, so that they can understand the situation. We will let them decide if they want to come out with us, knowing that they might attract attention.

What is your approach to your children’s education?

Jenny: We both believe that no matter what kids learn at school or from books, we parents are their prime role model.

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Brandon: We try to set the right example so we think about that even in our daily life. We try to explain things to our kids. Jenny: Kids are like little photocopies of their parents. So we are very careful: At home we always use “please” and “thank you”. We are careful about how we treat others and we eat all our vegetables. If you don’t explain something, like a rule, kids are likely to ask why. So I treat them like adults, I tell them the reason so they can try to understand. At first they might only get the feeling, but eventually they will understand.

As a parent, what do you consider ‘happiness’ to be?

Jenny: Harmony, listening to each other and respecting each other. It can be hard, especially between two brothers, but I feel happy when we all co-exist in a peaceful state.

NO MATTER WHAT KIDS LEARN AT SCHOOL OR FROM BOOKS, WE PARENTS ARE THEIR PRIME ROLE MODEL

CELEBRITY PARENTING Brandon: Harmony is a traditional Chinese value. For me, it is the most important thing. Aside from that, it’s about being together, being there for each other, being there for my kids.

What are your major do’s and don’ts for parents?

Brandon: Do invest as much time as you can with your kids; children are worth spending time with.

Jenny: Don’t ever not listen – sometimes kids keep talking and you think you can interrupt and tell them something, but no matter what silly things they say, if you listen and try to understand it builds their confidence and they feel that you care. Brandon: You have to be very patient. Jenny is keen to take part in social and charitable events.

Do you think that children growing up in Hong Kong are too pressured?

Brandon: Education starts early and children are expected to do things at an early stage compared to when we were young – and I think parents find that difficult too. Jenny: Sometimes academic achievement is not so necessary at such a young age. But some kids are more pampered than in other places – most people here have helpers, and some kids are less independent and don’t know how to look after themselves. Our children are three and five so this year we are aiming to teach them to be more independent, to help with things and not have everything done for them.

The couple is always the focus of attention from the press.

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FINANCE

Saving up the pennies for your children’s education Picking the right strategy for affordable tuition could be vital to a youngster’s chances, writes Chris Davis

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

ithout a doubt, a good education is a goal the majority of parents have for their children. But the rising cost of education has many parents worried over whether they will be able to afford to send their children to the school or university of their choice. While any thoughts of university education may seem a long way off when a baby is uttering its first words, professional financial planners are in complete agreement when they say parents should start saving for their children’s education as soon as possible. “The difference between starting early and waiting until a child is seven or eight years old can have a substantial impact on the amount that needs to be saved each month to reach a target figure when a child reaches 18,” says Edwin Cheung, associate director of Convoy Financial Services, who adds that a delayed start could result in either needing to save more to achieve the target figure, or lead to a shortfall. Rather than being an alarmist, however, Cheung says there are various ways to save for a child’s education without putting too much stress on family life and resources. Taking into account factors including the rising cost of education and inflation, before any investments are made, professional advisers like Cheung suggest parents establish roughly how much money they will need when their child reaches the age of 18. The ultimate goal, says Cheung, is for parents to set a realistic objective and look for ways to achieve it in a manner they feel comfortable with. As with all savings and investment plans, it is advisable to shop around to identify the most suitable options. “For every family, the circumstance will be different,” notes Cheung. Although financial planners recommend taking a long-term view of achieving the target figure, not all saving or investment plans necessarily need to span the entire duration. For example, a combination of long and shortterm strategies can reap benefits from market cyclical performance. Typically, an endow-

FINANCE ment plan with guarantees will generate three to five per cent over the policy lifespan and is less likely to be affected by market volatility. Meanwhile, investment-linked insurance plans offer the potential for capital appreciation; they do carry a higher element of risk because their strategies usually include investing in securities which can be affected by market fluctuations. Because life is full of uncertainties, Cheung recommends parents choose education investment tools that offer flexibility. For instance, there is the option of increasing contributions or of taking a break from making contributions in the case of unforeseen financial constraints.

Chris Tse

Edwin Cheung

No matter what, says Institute of Financial Planners of Hong Kong (IFPHK) chairman, Chris Tse, it is crucial to prepare for the unexpected by ensuring there is a safety net in place to secure a child’s education, in the event of disability, premature death or loss of earnings. “Having protection in place will ensure your children’s education plan will stay on track during health and financial emergencies,” says Tse. For parents who are unsure of the best options, Tse recommends seeking advice from a professional financial planner to help them formulate a comprehensive plan including life and health insurance, retirement and education. If it seems likely that a child will study overseas, parents should consider looking for ways to denominate investments in the currency of the country where they will study. To benefit from exchange rate differences, rather than convert large lump sum in a single transaction, parents should consider converting funds over a two- or three-year period, at a time when exchange rates are at a favourable level. As a valuable life skill, Tse believes parents should make older children aware of the financial planning and budgeting required to secure their future education. “As part of their children’s broader education, it is important that parents teach them the need to save and budget,” Tse recommends.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STARTING EARLY AND WAITING UNTIL A CHILD IS SEVEN OR EIGHT YEARS OLD CAN HAVE A SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT ON THE AMOUNT THAT NEEDS TO BE SAVED THE HEALTH ISSUE

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CHILD FRIENDLY

Putting the bounce into children’s play From courses offering babies motor skills, to swimming, fun zone play equipment and trampolining, Hong Kong has something to satisfy your children, writes Vickie Chan

Anne Knetch-Boyer

ne thing that most children in Hong Kong have in common is that there just isn’t enough space for them to play – and that issue has different effects at different ages.

Anne Knetch-Boyer has been teaching the PEKiP (Prayer Eltern Kin Programme) infant development for 17 years. This helps babies as young as six weeks to develop good motor skills. “Babies learn by moving and their first year is about muscle development, reflexes and co-ordination, which matures the brain for future learning and success,” Knetch-Boyer says, adding that social skills and emotional bonding also blossom. Allowing up to eight babies (with parents) per class in her spacious Tin Wan studio, Knetch-Boyer believes that babies are

(continued on page 34) PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Photo: Jonathan Wong

CHILD FRIENDLY

restricted by space in most Hong Kong apartments. “Play is very important. Spend time on the floor, make them grasp a toy, roll over and try ‘tummy time’ until they can spin and crawl. Parents can find new inspirations for play each session,” she says. Babies will also experience how to interact with different toys, textures, forms and weight and discover actions like shaking and rolling. An obstacle course with stairs and items to crawl over and under teach babies the feeling of their body responding to their muscles as they move.

If you want an idea of how your baby is developing, Knetch-Boyer explains, “rolling and crawling starts by around nine months, but all babies are different. Those who dislike tummy time and learn to sit up will crawl late, thereby developing leg and arm work late, and co-ordination – which stop them from exploring their environment. Our babies are confident, have good balance, are co-ordinated and have excellent social skills once they graduate,” she says.

Baby Spa Luxe nother option for babies is massage and swimming or hydrotherapy, at Baby Spa Luxe’s three sites (Caine Road, Heng Fa Chuen and Tseung Kwan O). Parents are encouraged to learn and carry it out at home. The benefits include bonding via verbal and non-verbal communication, using the senses to stimulate circulation, the digestive system, muscular development, and more. It can also help with gas, colic, teething pain and other baby problems. Swimming and hydrotherapy is physical and strengthens the baby’s heart and lungs, in turn aiding development of the brain. As with most physical activity, it is good for developing co-ordination, trust and confidence. (continued on page 36)

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Photo: May Tse

CHILD FRIENDLY

Fun Zone But confidence, bonding and co-ordination aren’t just needed during the first year of life, however; they are essential for children of all ages. With locations in Kennedy Town, Ma On Shan and North Point, FunZone offers an indoor playground equipped with slides, swings, tunnels, climbing nets and more for children aged up to 12. The equipment is custom-made in North America, to international standards – and there’s a toddler zone included. The focus is on fun and playing alongside parents in a clean and safe environment, but FunZone are experienced party hosts too. Sessions are inexpensive, starting from $50 for children. Monthly passes are also available, as are party packages. Classes on offer include Twinkle Dance Company, a 45-minute jazz or ballet class; Rugbees, a 45-minute play and learn session aimed at developing rugby skills such as catching, kicking, balance, co-ordination and team work; yoga, where those under three must be accompanied by an adult (although an adult must always be on site); and Kindermusik, a 45-minute, licensed music class. Children can stay to play after class, for free.

Ryze Ultimate Trampoline Park

One option that appeals to both adults and children is Ryze Ultimate Trampoline Park in Quarry Bay. This consists of over 7,000 square feet of connected trampolines, alongside a pit of foam that you can either trampoline into or slack line above. Due to its nature, however, there are a lot of cautionary rules at Ryze: Under-18s must have their waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian – and which doesn’t include siblings, aunts and so on – while under-12s must be accom-

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Above: Ryze in Quarry Bay allows children and parents to have fun together panied (properly) by an adult. Under-15s are not allowed after 9pm at weekends. Bookings are paid for in advance at $150 an hour, but those aged six and under can jump for just $95 during some sessions. Ryze is a fun and safe place, when people play carefully. With 40 connected trampolines, users are not supposed to share, and you have to be a little careful not to accidentally bend a toe the wrong way. That said, your children will definitely sleep well that night.

GIFTS FOR KIDS

Easter essentials

Parents who may be fretting about how to keep toddlers safe, cosy and amused when travelling during the Easter weekend getaway can choose from this wide range of products newly available on the market. Whether it’s a bubble cot, a travel vest, a first aid kit or a cool Kidizoom smart watch, you are sure to find something to suit your little charges! Text: Carmen Tao

Wallaboo Baby First Aid Kit Age newborn+ | $350

This convenient travel set contains a step-by-step baby first aid guide and 33 carefully selected items such as a burn lint pad, emergency foil blanket and hypoallergenic plasters. Available from Bumps to Babes

Oskar & Ellen Aircraft Hangar

Oly Active Car Mirror

Foster imagination with pretend play. This handmade fabric hangar stores five aircraft models, each with a little loop underneath that’s perfect for tiny fingers to explore the world of aviation.

This wide-angle mirror allows drivers to keep an eye on their baby in the back seat while also entertaining the tot during the car ride with blinking eyes, soothing music and a bright smile.

Available from Petit Bazaar

Available from Bumps to Babes

Age 18+ months | $470

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$325

GIFTS FOR KIDS

Ride Safer® 2 Travel Vest Age newborn+ | $1,438

A safe alternative when car seats and boosters aren’t available, this child vest is a comfortable upper torso vehicle restraint system made from soft fabric and padding. Available from Bumps to Babes

NScessity Personal UV Monitor $199

Protect your children and ensure safe exposure when out in the sun with this handy travel-size monitor. Measures ultraviolet (UV) intensity and includes temperature readings. Available from Bumps to Babes

Vtech Kidizoom Smart Watch Age 4+ years | $449.90

This smart watch with a rechargeable battery has little travellers entertained with built-in games and voice-changing effects. It also allows budding photographers to take pictures and videos on the go. Exclusive to Toys “R” Us THE HEALTH ISSUE

GIFTS FOR KIDS

STAEDTLER Noris® Stylus Age 3+ years | $20

Writing is a cinch with this jumbo-sized, ergonomic and triangular-shaped learner’s pencil. The stylus feature pairs perfectly with Staedtler’s free learn-to-write app for tablet PCs. Available from Journalize

Koo-di Pop-Up Travel Bubble Cot Age 6-18 months | $899

Weighing less than 2.2kgs, this portable and user-friendly cot comes with a padded mattress and zip-up mosquito net. Perfect for use while holidaying abroad or at your next outdoor picnic. Available from Bumps to Babes

Birdy Breezer Cooling Fan

$195 This gentle fan easily clips onto strollers and comes with a bendy neck to direct the breeze and keep your child cool in hot climes. The soft foam blades and plastic cage keeps tiny fingers safe. Available from Mothercare

STORE DIRECTORY Bumps to Babes 21/F Horizon Plaza 2 Lee Wing Street Ap Lei Chau T: 2552 5000

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Journalize 6A Bay View Mansion Moreton Terrace Causeway Bay T: 3565 6455

Mothercare Shop 305-307 3/F Prince’s Building Central T: 2523 5704

Petit Bazaar 80 Queen’s Road East Wanchai T: 2528 0229

Toys “R” Us 7/F, Windsor House 311 Gloucester Road Causeway Bay T: 2881 1728

FAMILY FUN TIME

The Smurfs – live in Hong Kong

Smurfs, those little blue creatures, are celebrating the season with their annual spring parade. But, sneaky Gargamel is plotting to turn off spring forever! Will the Smurfs be able to stop Gargamel from causing havoc? Find out in a magical musical story, right here in Hong Kong, live on stage at the Lyric Theatre! Date: April 2-5 Tickets: $250 - $688

Fantastical!

Whether it’s exploring the world of animals, gazing at the stars, thrilling to ancient tales of piracy at sea or getting to know our priceless heritage a little better, there is a wealth of upcoming attractions in Hong Kong waiting to entertain, amuse and fascinate youngsters and parents alike.

For horse-lovers

What do the big white tents hide at the Central Harbourfront Event Space? Cavalia, a theatre performance of equestrian and performing arts created by Normand Latourelle, one of the co-founders of Cirque de Soleil. Celebrate with him and his team the enduring relationship between horse and human! Date: March 31 - April 26 Tickets: $245 - $1,995

PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

Close to nature

Pick your own strawberries and lychee, learn to ride a horse, feed goats, rabbits and goldfish or admire the butterflies and have a barbecue to round off the day … the Tai Tong Organic Ecopark in Yuen Long is a child’s wonderland – but one where adults can also enjoy themselves. Address: 11, Tai Tong Shan Road, Yuen Long, N.T. Hong Kong Opening hours: 9:00am - 6:00pm

FAMILY FUN TIME

Growing up with music

Follow the programme of Hong Kong Sinfonietta, which regularly brings fun musical performances for babies, children between three and six and older. Children and parents can enjoy the orchestra’s brilliant presentation of master pieces on special topics such as Christmas, animals, sports, and percussion.

Born to be free

Panda lovers have a real treat in store with the Omnimax show “Pandas: The journey home”, depicting a make-or-break milestone in panda history. Now on at the Stanley Ho Space Theatre, and with many tender moments, the show features the re-introduction of pandas bred in captivity into the wild. Date: Now till April 30 Tickets: $12 - $32

Hong Kong Heritage Museum

What better way for children to experience our cultural and ecological past than the Heritage Museum? In the eight play zones of the children’s discovery gallery, specially designed for those aged between four and 10, youngsters can get to know birds and insects, dress up like sea creatures, play games or explore village life. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 10am - 6pm (closed Tuesdays) / Weekends and public holidays: 10am - 7pm Tickets: $5 - $10 (except special exhibitions) PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015

FAMILY FUN TIME

Hong Kong International Hobby and Toy Museum

Stargazing

Relaxing, interesting and educational, young scientists can get up to date on astronomical instruments when visiting Astropark. There are different sundials, a mini planetarium and naked-eye observation area for beginners, and a camp and barbecue site nearby. Phone bookings for camp places should be made at least 10 days in advance. Address: Chong Hing Water Sports Centre, West Sea Cofferdam, High Island Reservoir Opening hours: 24 hours daily Tickets: $7 - $24 (camping), free admission

Robots, anime, movie characters and more! In the Hong Kong International Hobby and Toy Museum, located in Yau Ma Tei (MTR Exit C), close to Temple Street, children can admire their favourite anime characters and check out what their parents used to play with. Opening hours: 1:00pm - 6:00pm, closed Tuesdays Tickets: $20 - $30

Our maritime history

Exciting tales of pirate Zhang Baozai who led six fleets in the South China Sea and over 70,000 followers, a collection of more than 100 colourful models of ship from all eras, and lots more are all on display at the Maritime Museum in Central. Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:30pm (Monday to Friday) 10:00am - 7:00pm (Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays) Tickets: $10 - $15

Hong Kong Wetland Park

The park’s greenery and clean air will make the whole family feel relaxed and invigorated. There are guided tours at weekends and on weekdays to learn more about birds, various kinds of wetland animal and the wetland reserve itself, while the “family experience programme” introduces rice farming to selected participants. Opening hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm, closed Tuesdays Tickets: $15 - $30 PARENTS’ GUIDE 2015