Ajhd5e6uytime out abu dhabi kids august 2015 by keepinsiderix

ABUDHABI

ALAIN

WESTERN REGION

Sesame Street August 6 - 8 du Forum Abu Dhabi August 14 - 15 Al Ain Municipality Theatre Al Ain

Mythbusters August 13 - 15 du Forum Abu Dhabi

Mummenschanz August 28 - 29 Al Ain Municipality Theatre Al Ain September 4 - 5 Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi

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Welcome to Time Out Kids August 2015

Calendar

A round up of exciting things to try this month!

Hotseat

Meet the neighbours

An Abu Dhabi teacher in the hotseat One family on where they live and why they love it

Family deals

Great offers for parents and kids

What to expect!

Activities

The Rhythm Music Centre tell us about its exciting lessons

Bumps & Babies 31 Time to go back to work after having a baby? We get some advice

Education

Food

Health

Shopping

Sport

Time In

When the tricky task of homework causes problems, try these helpful tips

Some lovely easy-to-prepare lunchbox ideas plus after-school dinner recipes

Super Savers!

An expert tells us about Sensory Processing Disorder and what it means

Features What to expect

Beat off anxiety

School checklist

We roundup some fun bags, shoes, lunchboxes and stationary

Education experts share what really goes on at each stage of school

We’ve got some great methods of how your kids can be stress-free this term Summer is over, so get organised for the new school year

Annabel Karmel

The food expert shares her creative advice on how to serve up healthy dishes for your family

Mum’s the word

Louise Emma Clarke talks about getting prepared for her son to start at the big school

Annabel Karmel

Ready, steady...go!

It’s the night before school starts back. You’ve run through the ‘get ready’ scenario in your head a hundred times to ensure you’ve got everything under control. You’ve probably packed their colourful new school bag, sharpened their pencils, prepared a healthy lunchbox filled with yummy nutritious snacks, laid out their uniform, packed a PE kit, placed their shoes by the door and planned exactly what route you’ll take in the car. What could possibly go wrong when that early morning alarm goes off? Quite possibly, a lot. Your child may decide they don’t want to get out of bed for the first morning ever, you may lose a sock, a shoe, or even spot a mark on that clean uniform that never existed ten minutes before breakfast. (Sigh). My advice - it’s fine. Don’t panic! Kids will be kids, and no matter what stressful events you face on the first day back, you will get them to the school gate on time. So this month, we’ve rounded up the ultimate school checklist, what to expect when your child starts school from the education experts, tips to fight off cyberbullying, homework dilemmas and back to school anxiety, plus delicious easy-to-prepare lunchbox fillers. Elsewhere in the issue, we have cool shoes, groovy bags and a book that can help your kids bid farewell to friends who are leaving the UAE. There’s also some fun activities for tots and advice for mums returning to work after having a baby. Enjoy the issue and see you next month!

Ever fancied signing your sprog up to Jiu-Jitsu? Now you can!

We read an adorable book about saying goodbye to friends and how kids can cope

COMPETITION WIN! A new pair of

school shoes from ECCO worth DHS450 See p50

Alison Rennie Editor timeoutkids@itp.com

Time Out Kids talk ‘I have no idea how we will manage to be up, fed, dressed and ready to leave the house by that time. I might start practicing for good measure.’ Louise Emma Clarke on getting prepared for school days Page 49 August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 3

TimeOutAbuDhabiKids

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

In other news…

Little World UAE Little ones can enjoy some fun playtime at the discovery centre. Lots of educational experiences on offer. The Little World UAE, Nation Galleria. www.littleworlduae.com.

SummerFest Abu Dhabi Activities and entertainment will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and at the Du Forum on Yas Island. Visit www.abudhabievents.ae.

Music time Kids who love music can sign up to learn how to play a variety of instruments at the Amadeus Music Institute in Hamdan Centre. Visit www. amadeusmusicinst.com (02 628 0984).

21 28

We’re excited…

To book a kids’ party and ask Cupcakes Couture to bake some delicious cupcakes. Visit www. facebook.com/CupcakeCoutureAbuDhabi for details.

We’re interested…

15 20

@TOAD_kids

Kids Art Camp Sprogs’ can do creative art classes with N2N Gallery. Each week youngsters can learn various art skills and take their colourful masterpieces home. www.n2n-gallery.com (02 665 9858).

It will be International Lefthanders Day this month. Around seven to ten percent of the world’s population will celebrate their unique style. Happy left handy day on August 13!

We love…

The Active Play sessions at My First Gym. Tots can practise motor skills they have learnt and enjoy playtime with other kids. Classes held weekly. My First Gym, Delma Street, www.myﬁrstgymuae. com (02 444 3560).

We’re looking forward…

To the school doors opening! Kids can get back into a school routine and parents can breathe a sigh of relief that the long summer holidays are ﬁnally over. Hurray! Coffee anyone? August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 5

Hotseat

NOMWANT TO INAT TEAC EY OUR HER FOOUR HOTS R D EAT? timeorop us a l i utkid sad@ne at itp.co m

enjoyed. I was occasionally chatty but always aimed to do my best. As I grew older, I realised the importance of focusing and working hard in all aspects of life. At Al Bateen we encourage students to work to the best of their ability and embed our school values of ‘Participation, Respect and Responsibility, Integrity, Determination and Empathy’, in order to prepare students for the future.

Name: Penny Andrianou School: Al Bateen Secondary School Job Title: Head of Drama Where did you go to school? I went to Alyward Secondary School in North London. What was your favourite subject? My favourite subject was Drama, but I also really enjoyed textiles and food technology. What was your least favourite? My least favourite subject was science. Did you have a favourite teacher? My favourite teacher was called Mrs. Christopher, who was my drama teacher at secondary school. She had a passion for the theatre and teaching, her lessons were always engaging and exciting. She inspired me to want to be a drama teacher and I aim to inspire my students at Al Bateen School in the same way. I’m fortunate to work with colleagues who are the best in their field and come from various countries around the world. Were you good or naughty? I was a good student at school and I worked hard in the subjects I

6 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015 20

What was the naughtiest thing you did at school? I went on a school trip to Germany when I was in Year eight and we were taken to a market and asked to meet back at a specific point and time. However, my friend and I forgot what time we needed to meet back. We were found by our teacher and had to run to the ferry as it was about to leave without us. What’s your happiest memory from your school days? I loved being involved in the school productions and having the opportunity to go to theatres in London and watch some amazing shows. Having the opportunity to lead the whole school production of Alice in Wonderland at Al Bateen, reminded me of how important it is to offer students these types of opportunities that they will look back on and remember fondly. What about your worst one? I remember doing my final A Level performance and my drama teacher had to prompt me in remembering to start my monologue. For a moment, I thought I had failed my exam, however I was determined to stay focused and in ccharacter and my drama tteacher reassured me t that I had done well. A a teacher, I always As e ensure that I create a supportive environment in my classroom, where students feel safe and secure in being able to develop their creative and imaginative ideas.

Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids Registered at Dubai Media City ITP Executive Publishing, PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel +971 4 444 3000 Fax +971 4 444 3080 Offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai & London www.timeoutabudhabi.com/kids

ITP Executive Publishing CEO Walid Akawi Managing Director Neil Davies Managing Director ITP Time Out Karam Awad Time Out Kids Abu Dhabi Publisher Time Out Group Martin Chambers Tel: +971 4 444 3728 email: martin.chambers@itp.com Editorial Director Time Out Group Mark Dinning Tel: +971 4 444 3215 email: mark.dinning@itp.com Commercial Director Time Out Claude El Feghali Tel: +971 4 444 3241 Mobile: +971 55 997 4071 email: claude.elfeghali@itp.com Editorial Editor Alison Rennie Tel: +971 2 245 0091 email: alison.rennie@itp.com Contributors Victoria Bentley, Louise Emma Clarke Art Head of Design Nadia Puma email: nadia.puma@itp.com Designer Mohammed Irqsosy Senior Image Editor Emmalyn Robles email: emmalyn.robles@itp.com Image Editor Anand Sundaram email: anand.sundaram@itp.com Director of Photography Patrick Littlejohn Senior Photographers Rajesh Raghav, Efraim Evidor, Richard Hall Staff Photographers Lester Apuntar, Aasiya Jagadeesh, Ajith Narendra, Ruel Pableo, Ausra Osipaviciute, Ethan Mann, Grace Guino, Fritz Asuro, Sharon Haridas Production & Distribution Group Production & Distribution Director Kyle Smith Production Manager Subramanian AC Production Coordinator Kesavan Rasu Tel: +971 4 444 3424 email: kesavan.rasu@itp.com Distribution Executive Nada Al Alami Tel: +971 4 444 3152 email: nada.alalami@itp.com Marketing & Circulation Junior Marketing & Events Manager Reema Rahman Tel: +971 4 444 3359 email: reema.rahman@itp.com Marketing and Events Executive Conor Archer Tel: +971 4 444 3199 email: conor.archer@itp.com Head of Circulation & Database Gaurav Gulati Tel: +971 4 444 3671 email: gaurav.gulati@itp.com Circulation Customer Service Tel: +971 4 444 3000 www.itp.net/subscriptions Advertising Sales Manager Wasif Ahmed Tel: +971 2 657 3499 Mobile: +971 50 612 3015 email: wasif.ahmed@itp.com Senior Advertising Manager Richard Halaby Tel: +971 4 444 3263 Mobile: +971 50 925 4005 email: richard.halaby@itp.com Digital Head of Digital Content Matt Fortune Tel: +971 4 444 3185 email: matt.fortune@itp.com Digital Publishing Director Ahmad Bashour Tel: +971 4 444 3549 email: ahmad.bashour@itp.com International Editor Time Out Group Will Milner email: will.milner@itp.com ITP Group www.itp.com Group Chairman Andrew Neil Group Managing Director Robert Serafin Group Finance Director Toby Jay Spencer-Davies Group Directors Walid Akawi, Neil Davies, Mary Serafin, Rob Corder The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review. Printed by Atlas Printing Press Dubai. Published under the authority of and in collaboration with Time Out Group Limited London UK. Printed for sale in AGCC and Egypt only. The name and logo of Time Out are used under licence of Time Out Group Limited London UK.

Advertising feature

YAS ISLAND IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER

arents are no longer running the show this summer – it’s the kids who are ruling on Yas Island, the UAE’s prime leisure and entertainment destination. Parents can kick back and enjoy a comfortable, hassle-free weekend or stay-cation, knowing their kids will be entertained and amused thanks to the fantastic ‘Kids Rule on Yas this Summer’ campaign, which launched at the beginning of July and runs all summer long. So why do kids rule on Yas this Summer? Because those aged 11 and under get to stay, play and dine at Yas Island for free! Families can choose from five of the island’s hotels; Yas Viceroy, Crowne Plaza, Radisson Blu, and Yas Centro & Rotana, where kids are entitled to a free stay with a paying adult. Along with their night’s stay, children will also receive free access to two of Yas Island’s top amusement ent parks; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, which boasts the e fastest rollercoaster in the world the Formula Rossa, ssa, and Yas Waterworld, which boasts a colossal sal 43 slides, rides and attractions and a unique ue pearl diving experience that showcases traditional Emirati pearl diving culture. Then at the end of a thrill-filled day, they will dine for free at their hotel. As if the exhilarating theme parks and attractions were not enough, families visiting Yas Island can also take part in an island - wide treasure hunt.

olden keys hidden all across the island will unlock prizes for those e who find them.

Each week, winners are chosen who will be presented with prizes each worth Dhs1,000. 0. They will then be entered into September’s grand prize draw for a chance to win an incredible prize worth Dhs10,000 - a family holiday to Yas Island, including flights for them, their friends or family. As well as the parks, throughout summer kids and adults alike will enjoy a host of exciting events and performances on the island.

veryone’s favourite children’s TV show Sesame Street is bringing a fun-filled live Broadway-style musical to du Forum on August 6-8. The show features life lessons for all ages teaching younger members of the audience the A-Z of patience, acceptance and teamwork. Mythbusters Live brings a mind-twisting, alternative science lesson to the island on August 13-15. The interactive show promises to be a thrilling performance, featuring phenomenal on-stage experiments that will keep you and your family fascinated. The following week, the ‘fastest illusionist in the world’ Hans Klok – tipped as ‘The New Houdini’ - will keep everyone on the edge as he performs his of their seats a astonishing magic tricks in two astonishin shows on August 21 and 22. Show-goers wanting to Sho make a weekend of their m ttrip to Yas Island are sspoilt for choice. For a day out with a difference, Captain Tony’s eco-friendly boat rides at Yas Marina are 50% off for kids aged six to 12. Children will witness k beautiful coastlines and be educated b about pearl oysters, humpback dolphins and ab d Hawksbill turtles. Haw daring ones can take off More da Marina on a Seawings water from Yas M breathtaking bird’s eye view of plane for a breat Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. If your little ones have any energy left after their Yas adventure, you can wear them out at CrossFit. Certified coaches at the CrossFit Kids Summer Camp will guide them as they learn how to work out, make new friends and lead an active, healthy lifestyle.

Meet the neighbours W DOHYERE L OU Tell u IVE? n s all a

eighb bout your ourh timeo utkidood at s @itp. com ad

Alison Else lives with her husband David, and their children Oscar, ﬁve, and Ruby, two, in the Al Karamah area. Time Out Kids ﬁnds out what life is like for her family living in a central part of town How long have you been in Abu Dhabi? We have been here for nearly three years. Why do you think Abu Dhabi is good for families? Abu Dhabi is quite safe and has a good expat community. There are a variety of activities and outings available for families. How long have you lived in Al Karamah? We’ve stayed in the Al Karamah

area for nearly three years and really like it. Why did you choose that neighbourhood? We picked this area as we have a backyard with a lovely tree. It’s also close to work and centrally located to the city. Did you have kids in Abu Dhabi? If yes, how was the experience? Yes, I had my daughter Ruby at the Corniche hospital after 10 fun ﬁlled hours! I thought the

midwives were very helpful. Have you found it easy to meet other mums here? Yes. I have met a lot of mothers within our compound as the children are always out playing on their scooters. What family-friendly activities are nearby where you live? We have Mushrif Central Park, the stables and the Corniche board walk nearby our home. There is lots to do.

Are you planning to stay put in the Al Karamah? We would like to stay in Al Karamah, but the rents are increasing — so we may have to review options. What do you do in your free time away from the kids? What free time? Ha ha… Not much free time with kids. I love going to the Saadiyat Beach Club as they have a lovely Friday brunch and it also has great swimming facilities. It’s lovely there.

Our favourite... MOTHER-CHILD ACTIVITY I love to cook with the kids. The kids’ pretend they are chefs. However, we tend to get more ingredients on the ﬂoor and there is the occasional ﬁght over the wooden spoon! 8 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

FAMILY HANG-OUTS It would have to be the beach nearby our home, Yas Waterworld or our local pool. The kids’ are also happy to be out on their scooters around the compound wih their friends.

HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS Deﬁnitely Sri Lanka! We go to a lovely villa in Dickwella Sri Lanka which has a surf break out the front. The kids’ love to try surﬁng and the atmosphere is very relaxing.

Family life through a lens Say cheese! Time Out Kids readers send in their funniest snaps

Abubakar All dressed up!

Hamza Having fun!

Nikita Loves pretty powers!

Zacharias Enjoying the sunshine!

Send cu in you and dte, funny r o ridicuwnright lou timesonaps tos utk itp.coidsad@ m

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 9

y l i m a F

S L A E D

Some lovely deals for your family to enjoy this month!

MOXILICIOUS Treat your little ones to a pair of these adorable Moxilicious moccasins and enjoy a 10 percent discount this month exclusively for Time Out Kids readers. Created by two Dubai-based mothers Alessia and Nivine, the pair wanted to create moccasins for kids that were of discount the highest quality, design and comfort. Simply quote the discount code moxi08 when you purchase a pair online to enjoy your 10% off. Available in sizes 1–5. For information,www. moxilicious.com.

10%

JIM’S KITCHEN TABLE

25% discount

Treat your brood to a breakfast, lunch or dinner date at Jim’s Kitchen Table! For the month of ff August, Jim’s Kitchen Table is offering families 25 percentt off kids meals and selected kids beverages! The family-friendly restaurant located at Masdar City also features a cool kids area, so parents can enjoy a coffee while little ones play. For more info visit www.jims.kitchen/

10 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

CAKE POPS AT LAKELAND

20% discount

Treat your brood to a sweet shopping trip this month and enjoy a 20 percent discount on the Cake Pop range at Lakeland stores. A variety of yummy flavours and designs are available. Simply quote the exclusive Time Out Kids deal to take advantage of your discount. For more information visit www.lakeland.ae.

SO SPA AT SOFITEL

30% discount

Calling all mums and dads who need some relaxation! The So Spa at the Sofitel Hotel is offering a 30 percent discount on all of it’s Hammam treatments t t t this month. Enjoy a traditional Hammam Ritual, a Rose Hammam, a Turkish Hammam or something else just as soothing. Prices start at Dhs346. Valid until August 31. Visit www.sofitel.com for more information.

Family deals

DUBAI MALL SUMMER PASS Looking for activities to do with your kids over the summer? Emaar have the answer – a great money-saving pass that will allow you to et: visit FIVE exciting attractions within Dubai Mall at a reduced rate. For just Dhs250 (saving Dhs190!) you will get: Kidzania - 1 x child ticket Reel Cinemas - 2 x standard ticket • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo - 1 x ticket (adult or child) • SEGA Republic - 1 x ticket (adult or child) with 100 credits to use • Dubai Ice Rink - 1 x ticket (adult or child) • •

SUMMER ACTIVITIES Dubai Ice Rink Set your spirit free on ice at Dubai’s sensational Olympic-size ice rink. From those looking to experience ice skating for the first time to those keen to master their skills, Dubai Ice Rink is a destination of endless fun for everyone. The Olympic-size ice rink boasts worldclass facilities. Whether you want to learn skating, perfect your technique, play ice hockey, socialise with friends or just have a great time, this spectacular venue is the coolest place to hang out, any time of the year.

Vouchers can be used at any of the attractions once each, and are valid for use between July 23 and September 5 2015. To buy a pass, visit an outlet or go to www.dubaisummerpass.com.

SAVE DHS1 Five at 90!

tractio to visit ns

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world and holds the Guinness World Record for the ‘The Single Largest Acrylic Panel’. It offers a range of unprecedented leisure adventure experiences including shark dives, cage snorkelling and glassbottom boat rides. Get up close to the gigantic king crocodile and the new baby crocodiles, go behind the scenes with new experiences and feed the fish with the world’s largest feeding tank.

Reel Cinema Reel Cinema has 22 screens including the first THX-certified cinemas in the UAE, as well as luxurious platinum movie suites. The Picturehouse is the UAE’s first cinema hall to exclusively screen critically acclaimed movies. Reel Cinemas at The Dubai Mall is the largest cinema complex in the region.

KidZania

SEGA Republic The 76,000 sq ft SEGA Republic park features 14 thrilling attractions and more than 170 games, from cutting-edge motion simulators and virtual experiences to one of the region’s largest assortment of skill and redemption games.

KidZania® is a safe and interactive, awardwinning edutainment centre where children can lead independent lives and get to understand the world of grown-ups better, by being grown-ups themselves. There are over 80 different roles to choose from including that of surgeons, firefighters, chefs, engineers, models, actors, artists, radio hosts, photographers, television hosts, jewelry designers and mechanics among others, making each visit to KidZania® a new and exciting experience for children. August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 11

WHAT TO EXPECT AT EACH STAGE With nursery and school gates about to reopen for another year, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve gone behind the scenes to ask three UAE-based teachers how you can expect to see your children change over the terms ahead

12 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

What to expect

activities and experiences, all children will become motivated and independent learners. Free-ﬂowing classrooms and stimulating daily activities will ensure a child is successful.

1 – NURSERY Aimee Collet, manager and owner of Paddington Nursery in JLT, Dubai How do children change and develop at this age? As children play, we see them develop new social and emotional skills to come up with their own ideas and solutions. The changes are huge from the day a child starts with us to the day they ‘graduate’. It is wonderful to watch and be part of! What fears do they tend to have? Children tend to feel anxious and not want to separate from parents at the start of the day. This usually continues for a week and with support and a warm, friendly teacher, your child will be feeling relaxed and conﬁdent when arriving at nursery. What motivates the children? It depends on the age, but I ﬁnd that if you encourage children to attempt new

How would you describe friendships at this age? Most children don’t tend to form ‘real’ friendship until they are a little older. Once a child is about three, they tend to have a small group of like-minded children that they approach to play with or naturally sit next too at lunch. What is it like teaching this age group? Highly rewarding! Being able to watch a child grow over a period of time is rather special and makes me feel very proud.

Aimee Collett

What advice would you give to parents? Relax. I know this is hard, but if you have faith and trust in your nursery, all will be ﬁne. Ensure you keep communication ﬂowing and that you support your child’s teacher by continuing the learning process at home. August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 13

What to expect

2 – EARLY PRIMARY Catherine Williams, year one teacher at RAK Academy How do children change and develop at this age? Children develop socially as they extend their language skills and make new friends in the classroom. They become more eager to ask questions and gain confidence to answer them. They also become more confident emotionally throughout the first term, allowing them to be ready for the challenges of the year ahead. Educationally they are like ‘sponges’, absorbing new facts and skills. What fears do they tend to have? The children tend to have fears of not being with their friends from their previous class or those that have left school, and about how they will fit in. They may also have a fear of getting to know their new teacher 14 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

and teaching assistant in an unfamiliar classroom, with a new routine to learn. What motivates the children? Stickers! Stickers! Stickers! Children at this age thoroughly enjoy receiving stickers for great academic work, good behaviour choices and being helpful to others.

What is it like teaching this age group? An amazing experience! The children are enthusiastic to learn and want to know about everything. It is so rewarding for me to see their faces ‘light up’ when they are enjoying lessons and learning new facts or new methods.

What advice would you give to parents? Encourage your children to be selfHow would you managers. This allows describe friendships at them to follow and stick Catherine this age? to the routine of each Williams Friendships are starting to school day and become develop into groups, but are still responsible (for example, not ﬂexible allowing them to play with losing belongings, completing daily children they know from other classes in tasks, and tidying up). the playground. The children make friends The children become more settled at school easily due to the transient nature of living in and thrive from the responsibility, whilst the UAE, so groups are made, but not solid. also gaining conﬁdence as they grow up.

What to expect

3 – LATER PRIMARY Thomas Bates, year ove teacher at Regent International School, Dubai How do children change and develop at this age? I see a dramatic change in the children socially and emotionally. At the start of the year, the children are intent on seeking my approval and attention, but as the year progresses they become a lot more independent. The children still confide in me for support, but they have definitely started to exhibit their own personalities, choices and ideas. What fears do they tend to have? I think the children’s main fear is being socially accepted. Children can be brutally honest and ‘fitting in’ becomes more and more important. Finding their own personality and fitting in at the same time can often be a difficult and somewhat scary experience for children. What motivates the children? Children respond well to free time at school, extra break times, or rewards such a class

trips. We have an end-of-term celebration where we invite the parents to see what we have been learning throughout that term. The children really enjoy showing what they have done and are highly motivated by their parent’s presence.

enjoyable. The children are discovering their individuality, whilst still holding a level of innocence and sense of childlike fun. The challenge is motivating every member of the class equally with such a range of personalities and interests with the classroom environment.

How would you describe friendships in this age What advice would you give to parents? group? The children have Allow children to forged strong explore hobbies and try relationships. new things. Schools Some have one offer important particular ‘best opportunities for friend’ whilst children to ﬁnd areas others spend their in which they can time in close-knit excel, whether it is groups. This year in sport, artistic or I have found that academic avenues. friendships between It is important to try Thomas the boys in my class things they haven’t done Bates were very easy going, before with full support from whereas the girls in my school and home. class can sometimes have quite combustible relationships. Fortunately any Paddington Nursery, www. ‘fall-outs’ are short-lived! paddingtonnursery.com RAK Academy, www.rakaonline.org What is it like teaching this age group? Regent International School, www.risdubai. I ﬁnd it highly rewarding and thoroughly com •

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 15

TACKLE ANXIETY When it’s time for little ones to return to nursery or school, anxiety can be present for both them and their parents. We talk to Sijyl Ghais, centre director of Blossom Village, for her top 10 tips that may help ease any stress 1. Be positive. Children pick up on emotions of their parents very easily. If you are positive, excited and relaxed your child will be to! Remind your children that they have new friends waiting for them at school and create playgroups after school with their friends so they have even more to look forward to the next day.

2. Start a back-to-school routine well before the day you actually return. Many children transition into a sleep-in and stay-up-late schedule, making the return to nursery/school and having to get up earlier a 16 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

greater challenge. Adjust your child’s sleep cycle and morning routine to avoid the ﬁrst day of school morning sleepies (and possible grumpies!). Children need at least 10 to 13 hours of sleep so be sure they get enough rest before their big ﬁrst day.

3. Schedule quality time with your child and talk about the return to nursery/school. Talk to your child about what their school day might be like so they have a clear understanding of what to expect - such as what time school begins and ends, who their teacher will be, who will pick them up etc.

The more your child knows about the upcoming experience, the less nervous or upset they may be as the big day approaches.

4. Visit the nursery/school with your child ahead of time. Many nurseries and schools have opportunities to meet the teacher prior to the start of term. If possible, be sure to attend as it can help relieve ﬁrst day jitters for the whole family. If no event is planned, schedule a visit ahead of time so your child can explore the building and see their classroom.

5. Let your child have some control in the return to school planning. Whether it is selecting a new water bottle or picking an outfit for the first day, let your child feel in control of decisions being made about school. Even if it’s not your personal first choice, it’s okay if your child picks something that you would not have!

6. Don’t linger on the first day. Most little ones will want you to stay with them in the classroom on the first day back (and maybe the first week), but you can cause additional stress or nervousness if you hover.

Children’s anxiety

Children need to know that it’s okay to be re without you while they are at school; reassure ey them when you will be back using terms they can comprehend such as after snack, after lunch, after they nap etc. Even if your child cries, most will quickly adjust and even grow w to enjoy their ﬁrst day of school. After you take them to their classroom, give them a hug ug and words of support and then leave. Your job is done for the day. Let the teacher begin n hers! If the nursery has CCTV cameras you u can watch the screen to see how your child is doing without disturbing the other children n by being in the classroom.

7. Communication is key. Give your child’s teacher information aboutt your little one’s preferences, dislikes, fears and home routine. Of course teachers will get to know your child’s needs and preferencess nt to too the t but in the beginning it’s important n to give them as much information as you can ease the transition from home to nursery. et z If you do not speak English at home, let the teacher know important words in your able child’s vocabulary so they are comfortable communicating with the teacher. z If your child has an allergy, make sure the ct nursery is aware of this and has a strict policy in place to prevent a dangerous allergic reaction. z Let the teacher know if your child has any fears or concerns. For example, if they are afraid of water, teachers will take extra care during water play or swimming to make the child feel comfortable and eventually build their conﬁdence enough to overcome their fear. z Basic information about your home routinee is very helpful for teachers and makes your child feel more

comfortable. Can you child eat on their own? Do they use the toilet at home? Does your child have a favorite stuffed animal or blanket? Some teachers ﬁnd that for the ﬁrst week a child is at nursery, it helps them feel safe if they have something from home. This can be a stuffed animal, special blanket or even pictures of mommy and daddy. As children get more comfortable they will not need to bring it anymore, but it can be a big help in the beginning.

8. Dress your child for play. Although teachers try their best to make sure children’s paint stays on the paper and food goes into their mouths, spills happen so make sure the clothes your child is wearing can withstand spills once in a while. Leave a few changes of clothes at nursery just in case.

9. Label L everything. Make sure clothes, bottles, toys, blankets, hats and a favourite toys brought to nursery with your child’s name. Most are labelled la paren parents know the horror of losing their child’s favorite toy and labeling it can be a simpl simple way to avoid this. Bonus tip - get a duplicate and keep it at home just case!

10. The T most important tip all of all…trust the teacher! She kn knows what she is doing and has lots of tricks up her sleeves to make nursery a comfo comfortable, fun and memorable time for your cchild. Plus, children will pick up on e your energy so if you are trusting and enthus enthusiastic your child will be too! Sijyl is the centre director at the Blossom Village She has been working in the Village. Educ Ed ucaa Education sector for over a decade and has worked wo has very closely with children of all age groups and all nationalities. Sijyl he also helped her family to set up of a free school for underprivileged children in her home country. Blosso Village, Villa No.43, Al Ragay Blossom Street, Umm Suqeim 1. www. th hebl blos theblossomnursery.com (04 348 6275). Other branches in Umm Al Sheif, Acade Academic City and Downtown • August 2015 2 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 17

CHECKLIST

So the holidays are drawing to an end, which means one thing - It’s time to get organised for school. Whether your child is just starting ‘big school’ or already in high school, these tips will help prevent a last-minute rush, making the return to routine stress-free, smooth and enjoyable for everyone

18 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

School checklist

Before term starts Vaccinations – is each child up to date? Photocopy vaccination and health records to give to the school if needed. Update school medical records if needed. Dental and medical check ups – get these done before a busy term ahead Eye tests – essential if your child needs glasses, or wears them Organise hair cuts Check emergency contact information held by the school – is it correct?

School uniform – does it still fit? Arrange a trip to the school supplier, or pay a visit the school ‘nearly-new’ shop or sale. Name labels – order them, and then start sewing or ironing them in! Best done in front of a good film on the sofa! Bedtime routine – gradually start easing the child back into earlier bedtimes and earlier wake-ups. By doing this the first day need not be such a shock to the system!

Pick up and drop off – what are the exact times for each child? The school run – do you know the way, and more importantly, the short-cuts? Check where you can park and for how long. Sort out lift shares with other mums and dads! If your child is getting the bus, ﬁll out the forms, and check how it works Afterschool – mark on planner all afterschool activities, including afterschool care.

Buy a year planner – stick it on the wall, mark up term dates, add to as term progresses!

Get the tissues ready – the start of a year is emotional, however old your child is. Be prepared for a few tears!

Sunhat or cap

Snack (nut-free)

Handwipes or sanitizer

Water bottle – preferably one that keeps the water cold

Pencil case (pencils, pens, sharpener and ruler)

Change of clothes or undies

Lunch box

Pocket tissues or handkerchief

School bag essentials Art smock PE or swimming kit

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 19

Annabel Karmel

‘W

e all start off with good intentions when it comes to feeding our children. We do want the best for them but we don’t realise until we are a mother, how a small person can be so difﬁcult and obstinate.’ Annabel Karmel talks sense. When I talk to her about the best food to give my toddler, she doesn’t tell me that sugar and salt should be banned, and babies should be weaning according to a strict schedule. She doesn’t say that birthday cake is bad, and carrot sticks are good. She seems to understand, having raised three children of her own, that feeding our children is not a simple linear path from breastmilk to steak tartare. There will always be false starts, but she offers advice that is practical and no-nonsense.

Kitchen table recipes

chicken dish with tomato sauce. She also thinks it is easy to get into ‘bad’ habits with your children: ‘I think that children are never hungry now. You will always give them something, and it isn’t necessarily something healthy. I think that’s not a good idea, because we as parents end up giving them four or ﬁve things that we know they will eat. If you do that over and over again, and you don’t try new things, then the child becomes even more fussy and you get into this cycle where you think, I can’t bear a battle at mealtimes. I know they will eat pizza and nuggets, I will just give them that. ‘We don’t want to do it, we feel guilty about doing it, but at the same time, we feel guilty about our child not eating. But we have to reason with ourselves – why is it such a terrible thing if a child misses a meal? Because let’s face it, a hungry child is a less fussy child. You have got to break the pattern. You have got into that cycle of giving them those four things and the only way you are going to do it is to get that child to be hungry enough to eat something new. Otherwise, they look at it and they say, that’s yucky, I am not eating it. And they haven’t taken one mouthful.’ She also believes that parents should remember the importance of snacks in a child’s diet: ‘You have to focus on the fact that sometimes they eat more between meals than they would at mealtimes. So think about making something in the morning that could be a healthy snack. So perhaps a pasta salad with broccoli

‘I sympathise with mothers. People say, it is easy to get children to eat things. It isn’t easy...They are the oercest of food critics’

Annabel’s food empire started from her London kitchen, with her own children, Nick, Lara and Scarlett. ‘They were fussy, and difficult. Had they been easy, I would not have had my career! So I think I have lived through it and breathed through it. I lost my first child, so when I had my son Nick, who was such a fussy child, I was so worried because I thought he might suffer like my first child and wouldn’t have the reserves to fight it.’ Annabel started experimenting with food for her son: ‘I started to make things for him. He liked apple but he didn’t like chicken. I made apple and chicken balls, which were minced chicken, with onion, fresh thyme, breadcrumbs, a little bit of chicken stock and a little bit of apple. The apple gave a slight sweetness to the balls, so he decided to like chicken. ‘I sympathise with mothers. People say, it is easy to get children to eat things. It isn’t easy. Sometimes they don’t like the look of it or they don’t like that everything is mixed in together. They are the fiercest of food critics. It is hard if you have a fussy child.’

Children deserve ‘proper’ food

From creating her own recipes, Annabel was inspired to write her ﬁrst cookbook in 1991, The Complete Baby and Toddler Meal Planner. It became a runaway success and was the number one bestselling book on food for children for 15 years. Perhaps the key to its success was the way in which Annabel doesn’t see ‘child’ and ‘adult’ food as separate things: ‘I think stereotyping children’s food, wherever you go, doesn’t help. Children go to a friend’s house and the mother makes chicken nuggets, because they know they like them and she wants them to be happy. Nobody thinks that a child might like chicken satay, or a stir fry, or a Mediterranean

Annabel on….snacks for journeys ‘Take my snack range! Fresh fruit is sticky and messy, as are vegetables. Dried fruit is good, like apricots. Also try rice cakes and sticks of cheese.’

Annabel on….baby-led weaning ‘I am not against ﬁnger foods. I give them babies them as soon as they can hold them, as long as they are soft. What I am against is why it has to be to the exclusion of purees. I do baby-led weaning and purees. I don’t think pure baby-led weaning leads to a less fussy child.’

Annabel on….birthday parties ‘Sugar and cakes at other people’s birthdays are ﬁne. I am not a purist. If you ban those things, then your child will want them even more. There are occasions when your child is going to overdose on sugar, and you can’t tell your child not to eat cakes and sweets at a party. It’s annoying, but what are you going to do? Everything in moderation is okay.’

and chicken and tomatoes and sweetcorn. Or a wrap, or fresh vegetables and a hummus dip. Otherwise the children tend to eat cookies and a bag of chips.’

The big sugar question

Sugar is another key topic in child nutrition, and perhaps the one that is most controversial. While Annabel is obviously against giving children huge amounts of sugar, she doesn’t believe a small amount is harmful: ‘There is such a fuss about sugar in the UK. A banana has four teaspoons of sugar in it. Okay, so are we not going to eat fruit? ‘They say, don’t drink fruit juice. Yes, a whole fruit is better than fruit juice, but juice is still good for you. If your child is obese, don’t give them lots of fruit juice August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 21

Annabel Karmel

and smoothies. But it is scaremongering, and makes it more difﬁcult for parents. If I shouldn’t be giving juice, and bananas have sugar in, well, what am I going to give?’ ‘When I add a small amount of sugar to something I make, I have done it for a reason. It is so that the child will eat it. As well as ‘scaremongering’ in the press, Annabel believes the problem with sugar in processed food lies with the law: ‘There will be no responsibility from manufacturers until there is legislation regarding the amount of sugar you are allowed to add to meals designed for children.’

Annabel in the UAE

Obesity and early-onset diabetes are a big problem in the UAE. Annabel suggests keeping a food diary so you 22 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

know exactly what your child is eating: ‘Often we are not around during the day when the child is being fed. Sometimes when the child is unhappy or crying, they will be given food. We need to know what they are eating during the day.’ Apart from her 40 books, Annabel’s baby and toddler food ranges can be found all over the world, including within the UAE. She has just launched a frozen baby food range in Australia, which she hopes will be the next step in children’s food: ‘It is difﬁcult to get mums to go to the frozen food aisle, but it is the best way of preserving all the nutrients in food. The baby aisle is all long-life food We as adults just don’t eat like that! With sensible statements like that, there is no question that Annabel Karmel offers

sound advice. Whether you’re weaning a baby or feeding your whole brood, she might just be able to give you a hand. www.annabelkarmel.com. Explore a world of ﬂavour with Annabel’s Organic Stage 1 Baby Purees and Sauces, inspired by her home-cooked recipes. If you’re looking for snacks too, check out Annabel’s wholesome Disney range complete with tasty rice cakes, raisins, breadsticks and biscotti biscuits. Both ranges are available in Spinneys, Waitrose and Carrefour. For more recipes and ideas, visit www.annabelkarmel.com or follow her on Instagram. •

SAVERS Six ways to save you money! CABOODLE

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Vaild only throughout August 2015. Take Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids magazine with you to redeem. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Caboodle, The Galleria Mall, www.caboodle. ae (02 616 6973).

HAPPYNEST PLAYHOUSE

Pay for one hours play and get the second hour for free! 10% off summer camps! Vaild only throughout August 2015. Take Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids magazine with you to redeem. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. HappyNest PlayHouse, Khalifa City A, www.happynestplayhouse.ae (02 676 0605).

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 23

Super savers

KOOL KIDZ

15% off birthday packages! Vaild only throughout August 2015. Take Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids magazine with you to redeem. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Kool Kidz, World Trade Center Mall, www.koolkidz.ae (02 677 0954).

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10% off birthday packages! 10% off ice skating lessons! Vaild only throughout August 2015. Take Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids magazine with you to redeem. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. Sparkyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, various locations, www. sparkysme.com

24 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

Bumps & Babies

ACTIVITIES RHYTHM MUSIC CENTRE 26

Activities

The Guide

Saving your sanity, city wide

Education Food Health Shopping Sport

EDUCATION

RECIPES AND LUNCHBOX IDEAS

HEALTH 37

WHAT IS SENSORY PROCESSING? 40

Time Out Kids talk ‘I have no idea how we will manage to be up, fed, dressed and ready to leave the house by that time in the morning.’ Louise Emma Clarke on how she feels about preparing for the school run page 49

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 25

Time in

HANDY HOMEWORK TIPS FOR KIDS 34

FOOD

Activities Find your rhythm Being able to play an instrument is a great talent to have for life. So we decided to talk with Iryna Hlushko, owner of the Rhythm Music Centre, to ﬁnd out what lessons they offer for kids Tell us about yourself I’m Iryna Hlushko, one of the owners of Rhythm Music Centre, and I’m from Ukraine. I also teach piano. Music is in my heart and that’s why I started this kind of business. I’m happily married with two sons. Tell us about RMC Rhythm Music Centre opened its doors to the public in 2013, as centre of music for children, teens, and adults of all levels. We are located in Electra Street in Abu Dhabi. The Rhythm Music Centre’s mission is to foster love and knowledge of music by providing high quality musical instruction, a range of related music programs and activities to motivate students of all ages, backgrounds, and levels of ability. Where did the idea for the centre come from? Rhythm is one of the elements of music. You can feel it in your heart and if you follow the rhythm — just like in teaching music if you are teaching from the heart — your student will easily learn. So that’s where we get our name from because we love music. What classes do you hold? We teach piano, keyboard, violin, classical guitar, electric guitar, Bass guitar, ukulele, saxophone, drums and also vocal lessons. What age range do you cater for? Usually, our classes range from six years old and above, but we have toddlers or pre-music training for kids aged three to ﬁve years. Where do you host the classes? We run our classes in our Music

Centre located in Electra Street behind the Honda Showroom. Is it a good talent for a child to have - being able to play an instrument? Yes, it’s good for them to learn music at an early age as it helps boost their self-confidence. It also improves academic skills, physical skills, cultivates social skills, plus it refines discipline and patience. What are the benefits of being involved in music? Persons who are involved in music tend to have good memory, hearing, physical and social skills. What are the favorite parts of a lesson? The best part of a lesson is when the students learn with ease or follow the instruction of the teacher and enjoy it. Do you host concerts? We always have a recital or concert of

26 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

our students and we usually do this in a mall. Do hold music exams? We do prepare and register our students for a Trinity or ABRSM Examination in an afﬁliate centre here in the UAE. It’s great when the students are ready for an exam.

What are the future plans of the RMC? We want to open more branches so we are able to help and teach more students the various types of instruments! Rhythm Music Centre, Electra Street. For more info visit www. rhythmmusiccentre.ae (02 622 6206).

Listings

Activity centres Adventure Zone Offering a range of sports from skateboarding, BMXing, Climbing on the boulder wall, trampolining and a ‘cable climb’ high ropes course, al in the cool indoor comfort of Adventure HQ. Dalma Mall, www.adventurehq.ae (02 445 8903). Fun City Offering a wide choice of activities including soft play in the Fun and Learn Zone, redemption games, electronic games, kiddie rides and thrilling rides for bigger kids. Dhs30 for all day Fun & Learn Zone and Dhs40 for all day Play Zone. www.funcity.ae Abu Dhabi Mall (02 644 2588), City Mall, Madinat Zayed (02 887 0689), Dalma Mall (02 550 7407), Marina Mall (02 681 5527). Kidoos Small, slightly unloved play area with a ballpark that can be hired out for parties. Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 9070) Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 2pm-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm. Kool Kidz A one stop Arabian themed activity centre for kids up to 12 years old. Day passes are Dhs150 or Dhs60 per hour. Entry before 3pm is Dhs30 per hour for toddlers. World Trade Centre Mall (02 677 0954). My First Gym Delma Street, opposite Zayed University. www. myfirstgymuae.com (02 444 3560). Family fitness club offering active play sessions, yoga, dance and much more. Ritz Kids Club Suitable for kids aged four to 12, available to nonresidents of the Ritz Carlton hotel. Dhs50 per hour for non residents. www.ritzcarlton.com

Activities

• Advice for readers While listings are accurate at time of going to press, events are notoriously changeable in Abu Dhabi. We strongly recommend that you use the telephone numbers provided to check for further details before a given event. For further information visit www.timeoutabudhabi. com/kids. If you have any comments or suggestions, please call 04 444 3471 or email timeoutkidsad@itp.com

(02 818 888). Sparky’s Fun World An all round family fun park with soft play area, rides, arcade games and more. Khalidiyah Branch features an ice rink. Dhs40 for all day play. See www. sparkys.info for more. Mushrif Mall (02 491 4445), Khalidiyah Mall (02 635 4316), Al Raha Mall (02 557 9557), Mazyad Mall (02 559 1744). The Room A fitness studio that also runs various classes for kids including Zumba, streetdance and martial arts. Prices vary. The Room, Zayed Sports City. www.theroom.ae (056 331 0310). Wanasa Land Entertainment areas for all the family including rides, video games, billiards, bowling area, live strike shooting zone and Wanoos Kingdom with soft play for kids three to 12 years old. Games and rides Dhs3-45 without supervision and Dhs25-35 with adult supervision. Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7000), Bawabat Al Sharq Mall (02 443 7654). Whiz Kidz A range of educational activities, including drawing, painting, arithmetic, calligraphy, public speaking and etiquette. (02 641 7450; whizkidz@ eim.ae) Mezzanine floor, Jumbo Electronics building, Defence Road. Open Sat-Thu 10am-6pm; closed Fri. Activities cost Dhs200-600.

Animals Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (02 575 5155; www.falconhospital.com). Visit and hold these amazing birds of prey. Abu Dhabi Wildlife Centre A sanctuary for confiscated and rescued big cats, including cheetah, tigers and lions. Behind Al Wathba Lake on Al Ain truck road. (050 614 4024; www. abudhabiwildlife-centre.com). Open MonWed 9am-5pm. Tours Dhs45. Al Ain Hilton, camel safari Try the one-hour sunset camel safari where you can get up close to these creatives whilst enjoying the beautiful desert. (03 768 8006) Dhs150 adults, Dhs75 kids (aged 5-12), under-fives free. Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort. The UAE’s top game reserve home to 197 species and over 3700 animals. Dhs20 per adult, kids three to 12 are Dhs10 and Kids under three go free.

Kids Rule on Yas Island! This summer it’s fair to say Kids Rule on Yas Island! With special offers, fun events and cool discounts, Yas is the place to take your brood. An exciting treasure hunt for special golden keys will allow families to get involved searching places such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina, Yas Marina Circuit, all Yas hotels, plus Yas Links! Mums, dads and the kids can take part in the Yas Treasure Hunt, which will run throughout September. With 250 golden keys hidden across the island, kids can be in for the chance to score alued prizes in weekly draws valued at more than Dhs10,000. 0. Key finders will also be entered into the major prize draw to win return flights with Etihad or flynas. There is also lots and lots of other fun n stuff planned too! For info fo visit www.yasislandae.

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 27

Activities

LeapTV launches in UAE

Kids love video games, and this new launch might just help them learn whilst playing. LeapTV by Leapfrog is launching through distributor Toy Triangle in the MENA region. It promises to ‘support the development of reading, science, maths and life skills…in a fun-ﬁlled way. With over 100 games, lots of different levels and good parental controls, LeapTV can be a positive influence on ongoing learning. Visit www.toytriangle.com. Timings vary throughout the year. www. alainzoo.ae (03 799 2000). Emirates Park Zoo Offering a range of animal experiences for all the family, including an overnight stay in a zoo chalet. Dhs25 for all aged six plus, Dhs10 for kids aged five to three and kids under two enter free. Open every day, timings vary. Al Bahia. www. emiratesparkzoo.com (02 501 0000 or 02 563 3100).

Arts & crafts Abu Dhabi Pottery Make some time for creatvitiy at these friendly classes. Also a pottery shop. Saturday to Thursday 9am-1pm, 4.30pm-9pm. Closed Fridays. 16th Street, opposite Khalidiya Park, www.abudhabipottery. com (02 6667079). Lana’s Partiperfect Play dates, cooking classes and catering. Open daily from 8am-5.30pm. Marina Office Park, behind Marina Mall, Villa A56, www.partiperfect.ae (02 681 0090).

schools, camps and the only circuit training class in the city for kids aged four to 17. There is even an indoor skydiving facility. Al Saada Street, Mushrif, www.adcoutryclub.com (02 657 7777). Abu Dhabi Dramatic Society Running for over 30 years and putting on an average of three to four productions a year. New members are always welcome, either to act or for

backstage roles. Junior acting groups ‘Applause’ and ‘Acting Up’ meet throughout term time. The Club, Mina Sadiyat, www.the-club.com (02 673 1111). Active Dance & Fitness Toddler Music & Movement, Baby Ballet, Classical Ballet, Tap Dance, Modern Dance, Street Dance, Zumba Kids, The Booty Barre, Zumba for adults. The Room – Zayed Sports City. Sports@ ActiveUAE.com, www.ActiveUAE.com (050 559 7055). Expressions of Dance and Drama Ballet, baby ballet, tap, modern jazz, hip hop and more. Sun-Thur, 10am-12.30pm and 1pm to 5.30pm. Closed Friday and Saturdays. Al Falah Street, Al Hilal Bank Building, 1st floor. www.expressions-dance.net (02 493 0115). Turning Pointe A wide choice of dance classes to suit all students including classical ballet, hip hop, modern, street jazz and Glee Club. Classes take place at Al Raha International School, GEMS American Academy and Pearl Primary School. www.turningpointe.ae (800 32623 or 800 225538). Emirates School of Ballet at Bodytree Popular yoga and pilates studio offering Mommy and baby yoga, Kids yoga, Kindermusik and kids ballet classes for ages three to 10. www. bodytreestudio.com (02 443 4448).

Libraries National Library One of the UAE’s largest knowledge resources. Sun-Thur, 8am-10pm, Sat 10am -8pm. Intersection of Delma Street and Muroor, Authority for Culture and Heritage Building opposite central bus station. www.library.adach.ae (02 657 6034). Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Library Numerous books and references on Islamic cultures, arts, architecture and sciences. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Sat-Thu, 9am-10pm, Fri 4.30pm-11pm. www.szgmc.ae (02 419 1919). The Club (02 673 1111) Library for members only.

Museums & tours Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (02 575 5155; www.falconhospital.com). Visit and hold these amazing birds of prey. Al Ain Museum Housed in the Sultan Bin Zayed Fort, the museum showcases the city’s culture and heritage across three different sections – archaeology, ethnography and gifts. Dhs3 for adults, Dhs1 for kids under 10. Daily 8am7.30pm except Fridays 3pm-7.30pm and closed Mondays. (03 711 8331 or 03 711 8332). Emirates Heritage Village Al Kasser, Marina Village (02 681 4455). Open Mon-Thu 9am-1pm, 5-9pm, Fri 5-9pm. An authentic replica of a Bedouin encampment, the village provides little ones with educational insights into the lifestyle and traditions of the Bedouin and other local cultures. Watch fishermen crafting nets, enjoy a typical Bedouin meal and see displays or horsemanship and falconry, before hopping on a camel.

Music Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation ADMAF presents concerts, exhibitions, workshops and lectures by leading international musicians and artists. www.admaf.org (02 333 6400). Amadeus Music Institute Family owned music school offering programmes in singing, piano, etc. 1st floor, Hamdan Centre, Hamdan Street. www. amadeusmusicinst.com (050 415 6934). International Music Institute Abu Dhabi’s official representatives for the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) in the UK offering music and dance programmes for kids. www.imi-jmc.net Opposite Grand Stores, Khalidiya St (02 621 1949 or 02 621 1299), Al Bandar, Raha beach (02 557 7602 or 02 555 4268). Music Monkeys A fun class where babies and children are introduced to fun music, songs and rhymes. Class times vary and run in terms of ten weeks. Various locations: Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Music Hub, St. Andrews Church, Sun & Sky tower, Reem Island. www. musicmonkeysad.com

Sesame Street Live

Community groups Abu Dhabi Mums A lifesaver for mums (and dads) with kids of all ages. They host several age and language specific playgroups, get great discounts for members at many nurseries and restaurants and host weekly bouncy castle sessions at The Club, Tue 3.30pm-5.30pm. Annual membership Dhs150. www.abudhabimums.ae. Abu Dhabi Twins group A group for parents of twins or more. (050 834 7073) St Andrew’s playgroup A playgroup for mums and kids aged up to five years old. St Andrew’s church, near Al Khubairat school. Mon, Wed, Thu 9.30am-11.30am, Dhs15 per family. standrewsplaygroup.abudhabi@ gmail.com (050 321 3962)

Dance & drama Abu Dhabi Country Club Health and fitness club offering everything from fitness classes, gym, pool, football, basketball, squash, sports

Let Elmo and his friends entertain your brood at the Du Forum in Abu Dhabi. Abby Cadabby loves to sing and wants to start a new band on Sesame Street! Abby, Elmo and friends discover ‘instruments’ they never knew

28 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

existed…pots and spoons, trash can lids, and even cookie jars! Tickets start from Dhs95. Show runs Aug 6 – Aug 8, shows at 4pm and 7pm each day. www.tixbox.com (056 675 6834/35).

Bumps & Babies Work baby work Going back to work after having baby? With the UAE offering one of the shortest maternity leaves in the world, we asked Big On Children’s Super Granny Andalene Salvesen to offer some advice to mothers preparing to head back to the ‘day’ job start before you go back to work so that you can watch her when she is not aware. I recommend the a nanny cams as you can check in through the day to “connect” with your little one and to stay on top of what is happening Andalene in their world. If your Salvesen nanny is offended with na this, then she is possible nott the th best b option. Checking her references with a previous employer is extremely helpful. You also need to clarify boundaries clearly before you start. Explain your priorities and expectations clearly. If you prefer a strict, to the clock, type of routine, then this needs to be communicated. If you prefer demand feeding and go-with-the-ﬂow type of parenting, then communicate this. There is not a right or a wrong approach. This is your child and you get to decide what works for you.

Feeding baby If you have decided and are able to breastfeed by pumping at work,

Preparing to go back to work The ﬁrst thing to remember is to not stress! If you are breastfeeding, this affects your milk supply and doesn’t do either of you any good. Try to maximise the little time you have together by breathing in and enjoying every moment. Don’t try and practise for the days ahead – instead, use every waking moment to bond with your baby.

Choosing childcare Carefully consider your options when choosing who will be looking after your precious bundle. Some caregivers are better at housework and others better with bonding with children. Decide which is more important to you. Some are loud and fun, some are quiet and gentle. Don’t be scared to ask too many questions. Often your gut feel will be the best barometer. If your choice is a nanny, have her

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 31

Bumps & Babies

HELPFUL TIPS Remember Date Nights: Being a working mother is tiring, but one of the most important things to remember is that your relationship also needs feeding. Don’t forget your husband!

then make it very clear to the caregiver that formula is merely for emergencies. Write down your preferred schedule and have her keep record of sleep/awake feed times as well as bowel movements. If at all possible, maybe you can arrange to come home once in the middle of the day for feeding time. But don’t feel at all guilty if that is not possible.

Coping Emotionally When you have made the decision to go back to work or your situation dictates and you have no choice, then it’s time to make the most of it.

The biggest relief comes when you change what you can change and accept what you cannot change. That is something no one else can help you with. It is not an easy process, but it is just that — a process. Give yourself a break! Of course you will be sad, missing your munchkin, want to cry periodically, but this is a season that will become easier with time. Give it time. One thing I hear regularly is “Won’t my baby love the caregiver more than me?” No! A hundred times, no! You are the biological mother. The bond is there. Just build on it at every opportunity you have.

32 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

Saving Time at Home: When it comes to home life, pre-plan your meals over weekends and freeze as much as possible. This way you can spend every last possible moment with baby before it is bedtime. Ask for Advice: Do what you can to equip yourself with parenting tools all along the way. Don’t be afraid to ask. Listen to everyone’s advice, discuss it with your spouse and decide together what is best for your child regardless of what anyone else thinks or says. Be kind to yourself and this

will rub off on your family and friends around you. Be proud of yourself: Be positive and focus on what you are doing right, not on what could have been. Be the positive person you want your child to become. After all, they are learning from you every day, no matter how many hours you are spending with them. One day they will understand your sacriﬁcing for them and when they become a parent they will recognise that and say, “Wow, I had the best mother ever! I want to be just like her” You are the best parent for your child - now walk in those shoes proudly! Big On Children’s Super Granny Andalene Salvesen is heading back to Dubai in September for more talks and home visits. Visit www.munchkins. me for more information.

Listings

Adorable blinds

Child welfare and special needs Future Centre For Special Needs Committed to helping children reach their potential through stimulating education and rehabilitation. Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Mohammed Bin Zayed City, www.future-centre.org (02 553 3506). Gulf 4 Good Brings Gulf nationals andexpats together for the purpose of raising funds to help orphanages and hospitals. Open Sun-Thu 9am-6pm. International Humanitarian City, Dubai, www.gulf4good.org (04 368 0222). Operation Smile Operation Smile UAE is a fundraising office which is engaging the community to raise funds and awareness of children born with cleft lip and/or cleft palate. The organisation works globally to provide free reconstructive surgery for children. www. operationsmile.org.ae (02 658 4790). Special Care Centre Helps children with physical and mental disabilities, relying on volunteers to assist the teachers. Currently looking for people to help with fundraising. Villa 17, Behind the Union National Bank, Al Markaziyah (02 641 8418). The Citizens’ Foundation Promotes mass-scale quality education at primary and secondary levels in Pakistan and is currently helping more than 40,000 children get the schooling they need. www.tcf.org.pk (04 368 1096).

Home help Clean Plus Services (02 645 6800) Providing part time maids. Errands Capable of taking care of a wide range of tasks from grocery shopping, pharmacy runs, document drop off and collection as well as basic PRO services. Starting from Dhs75 for a single errand within Abu Dhabi Island. Monthly memberships for multiple errands available. errandsabudhabi@gmail.com (052 678 6255). Wilson International Zayed the First Street behind Lebanese Bakery, Khalidiya (02 667 1200). The firm emails you a list of CVs from which you choose the candidate. You are required to pay for the flight ticket, sponsorship and the maid will

Support groups All 4 Down’s Syndrome A support group for parents of children with Down’s syndrome. They also raise awareness of Down’s in the city and meet on the last Wednesday of every month. www.all4downsyndrome.com (050 880 9228). La Leche League Free monthly meetings for mothers and women who are breastfeeding or who want to breastfeed. Create a special Roald Dahl storybook theme in your Meetings are held on the third Sunday of every month from 10am -12pm at Brighton little ones bedroom with some unique blinds. Each design feaCollege. Evening meetings for working tures cute illustrations from all the favourite childhood books. mums are also held every other week on a From James and the giant peach to the BFG, there is lots of Thursday evening. Free to attend. Contact ideas to choose from! Created by Illumin8 Blinds UAE and Noura, noura@laleche@gmail.com, www. llli.org/uae.html (055 542 2081). designed by Quentin Blake. Visit www.illumin8blinds.com. Bosom Buddies An Abu Dhabi-based cancer support group founded by breast arrive in about three to six weeks. massages and facials. Extremely luxurious. cancer survivors. They offer support to Solutions Salam Street (02 641 9227) Open daily 10am-10pm. www.spa.anantara. patients and work towards raising public If you’re looking for a part time maid who com Eastern Mangroves Hotel, (02 656 awareness of breast cancer. Gehan Wheeler leaves the house shining, this could be it. 11546), Emirates Palace Hotel, (02 690 (050 662 4716) or Melanie Gobert (050 Charging Dhs35 per hour in central Abu 9000). 668 7815). Dhabi with a minimum of three hours. Eden Spa & Health Club Le Méridien Ewa’a A shelter and support group set Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area, (02 644 up to help women and children who have 6666; www.starwoodhotels.com). fallen victim to human trafficking. Fitness Open All cases are treated with the Bodytree Studio Pre-natal pilates, daily 9am-11pm. Offers strictest confidentiality. 24 yoga, Hypnobirthing antenatal education, a prenatal massage for Hours. www.shwc.ae (02 breast feeding support, paediatric first aid, mums between the third 558 4812, 800 7283). post natal yoga, baby massage and more. and eighth month, OCD Support www.bodytreestudio.com (02 443 4448). focusing on the lower Group Support xing la re Let’s Go Yoga Kids yoga, private pre back, shoulders and group for sufferers of a r baby, oking fo natal yoga classes and more. www.letsgoyolegs. obsessive compulsive ou’re lo class for your ular y If game.com (050 349 2336). ESPA at The disorder, who hold e reg massagheck out the and Yas Hotel The Yas meetings every first s c p n m e u th . B Hotel (02 656 0861) and third Monday ses at ww.facebook s Maternity massage la c Open daily 9am-9pm. of the month. Family yond . Visit w Anahata Spa Open Sun-Thu 9amA nurturing body and friends welcome. Beyond/bumpsandbe ). 9 0 5 9pm; Fri 9am-7pm. Khalifa City A, Al treatment carefully American Centre for com 1 51 (050 4 Raha (02 557 7722). Tucked away in designed for pregnant Psychiatry and NeurolAl Raha, this boutique spa is a real treat and nursing mothers to ogy, Al Khalidiyah, www. for those lucky enough to live locally and relax the body and tone the americancenteruae.com worth the long trip out if you’re an innerskin, it begins with a gentle (02 666 4866). city dweller. They offer everything from a body exfoliation followed by a massage Parent ADHD Support Group A haircut to hammam. using natural calendula-infused oil to ease group for parents of children with attention Anantara Spa Massages and facials areas prone to tension and stress during deficit hyperactivity disorder, American galore in a palatial setting. Light Thai mas- pregnancy. A warm and nourishing body Centre for Psychiatry and Neurology, Al sage using sweet almond oil for expectant mask and a relaxing scalp massage add an Khalidiyah, www.americancenteruae.com mums past the fourth month, plus head indulgent end to this luxurious treatment. (02 666 4866).

BABYGE MASSA

Sleeping bags with feet

Super sponge

As children grow and start to take their ﬁrst steps, they need all the help they can get. So we were obviously excited to see the Slumbersac sleeping bags! They come with feet and are just like normal sleep bags but with openings for feet so kids can walk around while staying cosy in their bag. The sleeping bags with feet are available in four sizes from 12 months to four years. For more information on styles and sizes visit www. slumbersac.co.uk.

Developed for mums who want to make sure everything for their little ones is safe and natural. The Konjac Sponge Co is nonabrasive and can be used daily to help keep your baby’s delicate skin soft, smooth, and healthy. It’s perfect for delicate and tender skin, including babies with sensitive skin or eczema. Dhs60. Available at Holland & Barrett stores. www. hollandandbarrett.com.

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 33

Bumps & Babies

• Advice for readers While listings are accurate at time of going to press, events are notoriously changeable in Abu Dhabi. We recommend you use the telephone numbers provided to check for further details before a given event. Due to space restrictions, listings may be rotated. See www.timeoutabudhabi.com/kids for more information. If you have any comments or suggestions, please call 04 444 3471 or email timeoutkidsad@itp.com.

ESPA at the Ritz Carlton Pre and post natal 60-minute treatment, Dhs450 in the spa located right on the beach with a private beach, outdoor pool and relaxation area, stunning Moroccan hammam and a luxury ladies salon. Open daily from 10am to 10pm. www.ritzcarlton.com (02 818 8051). The Spa, Radisson Blu Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island (02 656 2494). Open daily 9am-9pm. The luxurious spa at Radisson Blu offers two treatments for expectant mums: enjoy an upper-body exfoliation and restorative treatment with the Rose Hydrating Cocoon, or treat yourself to a pressure-point massage focusing on upper back, shoulders and legs, with the Real Nurturing Aromatherapy Experience.

Education Say goodbye to homework hassles Getting back into the daily grind isn’t just about new uniforms and lunchbox ideas, there’s also the joy of homework. We talk to Lyn Soppelsa, director of consultancy services at WhichSchoolAdvisor.com for her top 10 homework tips assistance and offer the best of what you each have to your child.

8. Never let it get ugly Don’t let it get to breaking point, if you know the answer and they ‘just aren’t getting it’ don’t hold back, simply leave the point you’re trying to make… there’s always another day. The same goes with quitting — always do it when you’re ahead as your relationship is far more important that a piece of homework.

9. Make it fun If there’s something they just aren’t getting, then search around for other ways to present the problem. Parents today, have a wealth of materials, both free and paid for, at their immediate disposal, so make use of them! Try asking the teacher which they recommend, or simply search online for games and activities, videos, tutorials etc.

Lyn says, “Successful homework completion is really all about creating the right physical and mental ‘zone’ for your children. This way, you’ll create the most productive environment and routine for getting school work done in the home environment.”

sticking to it. It doesn’t matter if they don’t always have work issued by the school, you can ﬁll in the additional days with some reading, research or related activities.

1. In the Zone

It stands to reason, they’ll never do their best work — and you won’t be able to help them — if neither of you know what the teacher is looking for. It’s time to start researching online, scheduling time with your child’s teacher and following your school communicator. It’s time to understand the learning objectives and outcomes that the curriculum, teacher and school is looking for.

Create a peaceful study ‘sanctuary’ away from the rest of the goings-on in the home. Essential for this is a comfortable chair and desk, plus any stationary/storage needs the child has. Remember too, this area should be devoid of distractions, away from the hustle and bustle of the house and with no access to TV, internet, computer games and/or iPads.

2. Make a date For the little ones, 20 minutes to half an hour of homework a few times a week is more than sufﬁcient. However, teens require an increase in duration and frequency. The real secret to getting homework completed hassle free is making a weekly routine and

3. Know your curriculum and teachers

10. Know when to call in the big guns 5. Plan ahead When the homework gets tough make a plan! Help your children by showing them how to plan, schedule and organise their time and work into manageable periods, so they not only get the job done, but do it right!

6. Set the tone How often do you sit down with work you’ve taken home or even just quietly read a book? If you don’t set the tone and become a good example, it’s going to be much tougher for your kids to understand just what’s expected of them.

4. Take a step back

7. When they need your help…

While we all want to be on hand to help our children should they encounter difﬁculties, doing their work for them does nothing to help. “I’ve heard so often from frustrated teachers who say it’s obvious that the parent has completed the assignmentnot the child,” says Lyn.

Use Your Resources Wisely. We’re all good at different things and now’s the time to sit down and identify just where your strengths and weaknesses lie. If you’re good at science and history and your partner is great with Maths and English, then it’s time to split the

34 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

When all else fails, know when to call for back up i.e. the professional tutor. Speak to your class teacher ﬁrst and try to understand your child’s needs. If all else fails consider short term tuition to address the speciﬁc need, rather than a long-term arrangement which can be stressful for all concerned.

Super Tips for Stressed-Out Kids Forgetful Kids- Have 3 or 4 classmate’s parents’ numbers on speed dial, so if yours forgets their work, you know who to call. Stuck in a Rut?- If it’s not happening take a 5 minute break or move to a new setting. For procrastinators- Try setting a timer and let them race the clock. Finish on a Good Note- Always praise your child and remember to ﬁnish on a good note!

Listings

Helping youngsters learn

â&#x20AC;˘ Advice for readers While listings are accurate at time of going to press, we strongly recommend that you use the telephones provided to check for further details. For further information visit www.timeoutabudhabi.com/kids. If you have any comments or suggestions, please call Time Out Kids on 04 444 3471 or email timeoutkidsad@itp.com.

Nurseries

Education

Abu Dhabi Junior Nursery Airport Road, near Al Wahda Mall (02 445 0600). Open Sun-Thu 7.30am.12.10pm. From two to three years. Al Dana Nurseries 10 branches across Abu Dhabi and three in Al Ain.www. aldananurseries.com (02 633 4888). Al Haneen Nursery Mussafah (02 553 0300). Open 6am-6pm. Caters from 45 days up to four years. Blooming Buds Nursery Between Khlaleej Al Arabi Street (30th) and 32nd Street, www.bloomingbudsnursery.com (02 491 8068). Sun-Thu 7.30am-3pm. EYFS curriculum for kids aged 12 months-four years. Bright Beginnings Nursery Mushrif branch, 27th & Airport Rd, and near 15th & 30th (02 449 2840) Open Sun-Thu 7am-2pm. Al Mehairba branch off Khaleej Al Arabi in Musaffah direction, www. brightbeginnings.ae (02 445 5339). British Orchard Nursery Follows British EYFS curriculum. Caters for kids aged six months to five years. Two branches in Abu Dhabi; Al Nayhan (02 443 9892) and Al Bateen (02 622 2903), www.britishorchardnursery.com. Busy Bee Nursery Abu Dhabi Madinat Zayed, www.busybees-nursery.com (02 621 9492). Open Sun-Thu 8am-1pm. For 18 months up to four years. Butterfly Montessori Nursery

The Taleem Training and Skills Development Centre offer a range of educational programmes for youngsters across the UAE. From specialist support, assessments, summer camps to study skills, the centre provides everything a youngster may need

help with when it comes to learning. Taleem Training and Skills Development Centre, 15th Street, Al Moroor Rd, Al Nahyan Camp Area, Emirates Hospitality Center building ,office 503. Visit www.taleemcentre. com. (02 444 1101).

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 35

Education

Colorbug brings pictures to life

Colorbug by pixelbug help parents ﬁnd a middle-ground between traditional arts and crafts and modern technology. Accordin to the developers: ‘Children in the GCC excessively use to technology devices and the result is that they do not develop correct motor skills. Furthermore, they spend 30 percent of their day on passive play with games that don’t engage their imagination.’

Aimed at four to 10 year olds, it is an augmented reality edutainment application that brings kids’ storytelling and colouring books to life. Kids colour in a stencil on paper and use the app by pointing their smart device’s camera at the stencil. The drawing comes to life, as coloured in on the paper, with 3D animations that educate the kids on various topics. www.colorbug.ae for more information.

28th Street, near 11th Street, www. A (02 556 5500) admont.ae (02 665 8611). Open Sun-Thu www.littlesmartiesnursery.com. 7am-5pm. Noah’s Ark Nursery Abu Dhabi Nursery in Khalifa City A (02 556 Clever Hands Nursery 4419), Najda branch (02 635 1035), Al-Mushrif, 25th St, www.cleverhandsnursMusaffah branch (02 559 1743) www. ery.com (02 491 7771). Trilingual. Modern noahsarknurseryad.com. Montessori method and the Starfall CurSesame Street Private Nursery riculum to promote broad and constructive Shk Rashid B Saeed Al Maktoum Street (02 learning. Age 0-4. 641 2766). Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Educare Nursery Abu Dhabi Khalidiya branch 26th Street, behind Sheraton For 18 months up to four years. Suites (02 665 8882), Al Muroor branch, Stepping Stones Nursery Al Bateen (02 681 5583), Al Rowdha (02 445 2260), 31st St (02 448 3744) www.educarenursery.com. Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-5pm. From Bain Al Jessrain (02 558 8318), Khalifa one month to four year-olds. City A (02 556 5991) www.steppingstones. First Steps Nursery Al Karama St, ae. Modern Montessori curriculum. www.firststeps.ae (02 445 4920). Call for Teddy Bear American Nursery timings. For kids from 18 months to four Khalifa City A (02 556 8566) years. www.teddybearnursery.net Future Stars Nursery Windsor Early Years Nursery Al Falah Street (02 642 0177). Open SunKhalifa City A (02 577 9295, www. Thu 7.30am-3pm. From one month up to windsor-nursery.com). Early Years Foundafour years of age. tion Stage Curriculum, from four weeks up Giggles Nursery Abu Dhabi (02 641 to four years. 6255). Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-2pm. Plenty of laughs for kids 10-months to two-years Primary & Humpty Dumpty Nursery Khalifa secondary schools City A (02 556 1068) and on 11th between ABC Private Schools LLC 30th and 32nd (02 666 3277) www. Muroor Road, behind Abu Dhabi Police humptynursery.org International Montessori Nursery Academy (02 444 5800). Al Muroor, off 31st street (02 449 4680) From KG1 to Grade 6, kids follow the Britimn.ae. Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm ish curriculum Jigsaw Nursery Abu Dhabi Corner Abu Dhabi International School of Delma Street and Karama St and Al Karama St, intersection 11 (02 443 MBZ near Mazyad Mall, Mohammed Bin 4433; www.ais.sch.ae) Zayed City, www.jigsawnurseryad.com Offers American and British curriculum to (02 445 5222). Open Sun-Thu mostly Arab students, conducted in 8am-2pm. English Les Fanfans Nursery Al Dafrah Private School www.lesfanfans.com (02 5th Street, Muroor Road, be639 0390). Open Sun-Thu hind Khalidiya Mall (02 444 8am-5pm. Teaching in 3395; www.dhafrasc.com). both English and French. Offers British and American l, o o h c Kipina Nursery New curriculums. rs like you listed u yo innovation in nursery Al Muna Primary ld ty Wou ry or activi mail education modeled after School Off Airport Road nurse rop us an e D @ ? d a here and Electra Street, behind Finland. 7am-6.30pm, outkids at time p.com Marks & Spencer, www.almuwww.kipinakids.com it naprimary.sch.ae (02 501 4777). (02 667 2445). British curriculum for children from Les Fanfans Nursery FS1 to Year 6. www.lesfanfans.com (02 639 0390). Al Nahda National School – Girls Open Sun-Thu 8am-5pm. Teaching in both 19th Street, Airport Road, behind Adnoc English and French. Petrol Station, www.nahdaschools.com (02 Little Haven Nursery 7.30am-6pm. Near Mushrif Central Park, www.littlehaven- 447 7600). Teaches British and American curriculums. nursery.com (02 447 9688). Al Nahda National School – Boys Little Smarties Nursery Khalifa City

Muroor Road, behind Emirates Media, www.nahdaschools.com (02 445 4200). Teaches British and American curriculums. Al Yasmina School Al Raha Gardens, off Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway, www. alyasmina.sch.ae (02 501 4888). British curriculum for kids aged three-18. American Community School of Abu Dhabi Khalidiya (02 681 5115; www. acs.sch.ae). Non-profit school teaching the American curriculum from KG1 to Grade 13. American International School 29th Street Airport Road (02 446 2280; www. aisa.sch.ae). Offering American education to children aged three to 17. Belvedere British School Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Street 31, Behind Al

Safeer Mall, (02 509 0000, admission@ Belvederebritishschool.com) Offering a UK curriculum for FS1- Year 7, age 3- 11yr olds. The school opened in September 2012 and is being supported by the established Belvedere British Schools in Liverpool, UK. Brighton College Abu Dhabi Eastern Mangrove Corniche, Bloom Gardens (02 815 6500; www.brightoncollege.ae). British curriculum. New sixth form planned to open in Spetember 2014. British International School Abu Dhabi Behind Abu Dhabi University, www.nordangliaeducation.com (02 510 0100). British School Al Khubairat Airport Road near 17th Street (02 446 2280; www.britishschool.sch.ae). British education to children from three to 18 years. Canadian International School Abu Dhabi Khalifa City A, www.cisabudhabi.com (02 556 4206). GEMS American Academy Khalifa City A, www.gemsaa-abudhabi.com (02 557 4880). Offers the American curriculum, from KG1 to Grade 13. Glenelg School Abu Dhabi Sas Al Nakhl, www.gsad.sch.ae, (02 599 2001). Indian Modern Science School Behind Kerela Social Centre (02 631 3663; www.indianmodernschool.com). Levels: KG1-Grade 8 (CBSC – Indian Curriculum). Fees from Dhs5,000 International Community School Off Electra Street, behind Lifeline Hospital, www.icsschool-uae.com (02 633 0444). Offering a British curriculum to students from kindergarten to grade 12. International School of Choueifat Al Mushrif, www.iscrak-sabis.net (02 446 1444). For kids aged three-18 years, teaching both British and American curriculums. Pearl Primary School Corner of 4th and 11th Street, behind Lebanese Flower www.pearlprimary.sch.ae (02 641 8887). From KG to Grade 6. Fees from Dhs28,500. Raha International School Khalifa City A, Al Raha Gardens, www.ris.ae (02 556 1567). IB curriculum for kids aged four to 19. Reach British School Following Cambridge Primary programme and a new curriculum for English as a second language. Baniyas East, www.rb-school.com (02 676 7751). Ryan International School Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curiculum. Mussafah, www.ryaninternational. org (055 829 0540).

Need help with Math?

LIST YOURE! VENU

36 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

If your youngster requires a little helping hand when it comes to Math, why not check out the specialist tutoring available at Mathnasium. Going back to the traditional pencil, paper and teacher method, kids can receive the additional support they need to get that homework, project or class work completed. Mathnasium, Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi. For more information visit www.mathnasium.ae.

Food Food for tot Farah Sawaf, founder of www.cookingwithamanicure.com shares a few easy-to-prepare lunchbox snacks and after school dinner recipes to help feed little ones after-school ones’ tummies and minds

LUNCHBOX FILLERS 1. Lunchbox quesadilla craze I usually keep back up ingredients on hand when serving this recipe because every time I lay it on the table, I’m requested to make another bunch as fast as possible. For someone who loves to cook, that’s the greatest compliment. My boys love taking this in their lunchbox as it is great at room temperature and does not have to be hot! I recommend you get your hands busy, roll up your sleeves and after the chicken cools, use your fingers to shred the chicken into fine strands. I find this works better than a knife, scissors or anything else around the kitchen. Serves 2 to 4 25 minutes Ingredients: 4 medium wheat/whole grain tortillas 2 cups chicken, shredded (you can bake chicken breast or purchase small roast chicken, cool and shred the white meat by using fingers) 2 cups Monterey Jack or Colby cheese, shredded 2 tablespoons low-fat sour cream ¼ teaspoon ground chili powder ¼ teaspoon ground garlic powder

¼ teaspoon ground cumin powder ¼ cup chopped green onion (green and white parts) ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon salt Grated zest of 1 fresh lime Preparation: Mix together shredded chicken, shredded cheese, sour cream, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, green onion, cinnamon, salt and lime zest in a bowl forming a paste. Over two tortillas, spread evenly and pat the paste down covering the entire surface. Over each tortilla lay another on top. Now you have two quesadillas ready to go in the pan. Heat a medium-sized skillet over low heat. Spread out some butter in the pan. Lay one tortilla at a time over low/medium heat. Try to avoid flipping too soon. Over the top of the tortilla, spray with butter or oil before flipping. Carefully flip the quesadilla when you see the bottom tortilla begin to brown lightly. This should take about four to seven minutes. Allow the other side to brown up nicely, also taking about four to seven

minutes depending how browned you want your tortillas to get. Allow at least 15 minutes to

cool so cheese does not ooze out. Cut into slices and wrap in little foils for lunchboxes the next day.

2. Quinoa-crusted chicken with a honey mustard dip This is great for a lunchbox stuffer! Tupperware these days is so creatively designed — you can place the chicken sticks on one side with some cut up vegetables and the dip on the other for a fuss-free enjoyable lunch. The goodness of quinoa, protein of the chicken and yumminess of the honey dip will put a smile on both you and your child’s face during lunchtime! Serves 4 15 minutes Ingredients 2 cups cup cooked quinoa 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, you can ask butcher to slice each one into escalope-pounded thin pieces. Each breast should create about two or three slices 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme Fresh cracked pepper and salt Flour- you can even use quinoa ﬂour (many grocery stores carry this) or any ﬂour you prefer

2 eggs Honey dip - Blend ¼ cup honey with 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon mayonnaise Preparation: Pre heat oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Prepare quinoa as usual. After fully cooked, spread evenly on a non-stick baking tray and bake for approximately 20 minutes, until golden brown and crunchy. You can do this ahead of time and save in a jar or in a ziplock bag. In shallow bowls place in each — ﬂour, whisked eggs and toasted quinoa. Dip one at a time, chicken breast in ﬂour, then egg, shake any egg dripping then lay on toasted quinoa fully coating each piece. Lay on a wire bake rack or non-stick baking pan and cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Allow to cool. Cut in strips and dip in honey sauce.

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 37

3. Turkey/cheese-stuffed cucumbers Serves 1 Ingredients: 1 large long cucumber (the large ones found in sealed plastic-imported) Utensil to de-core the inside of the cucumber, the same used to take out the inside of the zucchini, found in all supermarkets (alternatively you can use a thin, long knife) 2 slices of good quality hormone-free turkey 1 ﬂexible slice of mild cheese like Edam Any jam you like - I prefer date or ﬁg jam Preparation:

De-core the cucumbers creating a hollow inside each, make sure you don’t poke a hole in the bottom or tear the sides. Lay the cheese upon the turkey. Dab on your favorite jam or ﬂavoured sauce. Roll tightly. Insert fully into the hollow cucumber. The cucumber should be stuffed with enough ﬁlling to feel like a sandwich! I also sometimes stuff the cucumber with Labneh and fresh Zaater, quinoa salad, roast chicken and cheese - basically anything you can think of...be creative!

4. Ginger-sweet salmon sticks Once you get this right, it’ll taste like you’ve got the perfect marinade. The beauty of marinating salmon is that it doesn’t require a huge waiting time. You can rustle up this meal in less time than it takes to go the store and ﬁnd a bottled marinade. Serves 2 20 minutes Marinating minimum 1 hour Ingredients: 2 small pieces of salmon ﬁllet, approximately 200 grams, cubed 2 to 3 skewers For the marinade: ¼ cup soy sauce 2 tablespoons apple juice 1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger 2 tablespoon honey Sprinkle of sesame seeds Preparation: In a Tupperware or glass bowl, combine ingredients for marinade and mix well. Place salmon cubes and allow to sit in fridge for at least an hour. I tend to do this the night before and sit until next day. When ready to cook. Preheat oven to 175 degrees. Using about 2 or 3 skewers, jab each salmon cube onto sticks. Place in over semi-deep rectangular or square baking pan so sticks are hanging with the salmon not touching the bottom of pan. Cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds.

5. Little drumstick snacks Serves 2-4 20 minutes Marinating minimum 1 hour Ingredients: 6 to 8 small good quality chicken drumsticks For marinade: ½ cup soy sauce ¼ cup grated apple 2-tablespoon maple syrup Preparation: In a Tupperware or glass bowl, combine ingredients for marinade

and mix well. Place drumsticks in bowl or Tupperware, give it a shake and allow to sit in fridge for at least an hour. I tend to do this the night before and sit until next day. When ready to cook. Preheat oven to 175 degrees. Place on wire baking rack and then cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Allow to cool and wrap ends of each drumstick with foil. Then enjoy.

38 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

DINNER TIME 1. Fiesta quiche, or ‘Eggie cake’ This dish is a hit in the Sawaf household. My three small boys call this Eggie cake as it does not really look or better yet taste like it is supposed to be good for you! Quiche is such a wonderful meal as it offers a creamy egg ﬂavour coupled with puff pastry, with a chewy yet crunchy texture. Get creative! Mix in anything that you feel is suitable in your fridge, play with different types of cheese. There are no limits. Serves 4 to 6 1 hour Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry (frozen, thawed completely - I use whole grain) Roll out thinly and try to use only half if possible 2 medium green asparagus stalks, chopped ½ cup white button mushrooms, thinly sliced ¼ cup yellow onion, thinly sliced Olive oil for sautéing 3 extra large organic eggs 3/4 extra- light cream ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg powder 1 ¼ tablespoons all purpose ﬂour ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup low fat mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup low fat cheddar cheese, shredded Preparation: Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Roll out the puff pastry and place into a flour-dusted 10 inch (25.5cm) pie pan, about 1 ½ inches high (3.5 cm). Press dough all over lightly with a fork, including the sides and place in oven for five minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside until ready to use. Drizzle olive oil into a pan, over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus, mushrooms and onion for five minutes. In a separate bowl, combine eggs, cream, flour, nutmeg, salt and pepper and whisk. Stir in vegetable mix to the bowl. Blend in the mozzarella cheese. Stir well. Pour mixture into the pie pan and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Use a fork to swirl the cheese lightly into the egg mixture. Place in the oven on lower middle rack and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Remove the pie pan from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes. Slice and serve.

2. Thick pasketti spaghetti This is one of my all time favourite comfort foods. *Note: for vegetarians, this can work without the ground beef, just add one more cup of mushrooms, ½ cup extra red pepper/capsicum, and use vegetable broth rather than beef Serves 4 to 6 1 hour 20 minutes Ingredients: 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 small yellow sweet onion, chopped 1 ½ to 2 pounds lean ground beef (3/4 to 1 kilo) 4 to 5 cloves of garlic, crushed 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms ½ cup red pepper/capsicum, chopped 2 16-ounce or 450 gram organic, good quality jar whole tomatoes (NOTE: Use 3 cans if you want it more saucy) 1 6-ounce can Italian-style tomato paste 1 fresh tomato, chopped 2 cups water 3 tablespoons dried oregano 1 tablespoon dried thyme 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon white sugar ½ cup beef broth ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 tablespoon kosher or sea salt ¼ cup chopped fresh basil 1 500 gram package whole wheat or half wheat spaghetti Extra-virgin olive oil

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese Preparation: In a very large saucepan, sauté the onion in olive oil or good quality butter over medium heat. Cook until soft and translucent. Add ground beef and sauté for another six minutes or so. Add garlic, mushrooms and red capsicum. Cook for an additional four minutes. Stir in cans of whole tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped tomato, water, oregano, cinnamon, sugar, beef broth crushed red pepper and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally. Stir in fresh basil. In a large pot, boil two litres of water over high heat. Add a few pinches of table salt. Put the pasta into the boiling, salted pot and cook for approximately seven minutes, or according to package directions. Try tasting a noodle periodically to gauge whether you like the texture. Drain the pasta into a colander and add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to separate all pasta noodles. Serve in two large bowls, one for sauce and other for pasta. This leaves an option for people to spoon as much sauce over their desired amount of pasta. Serve with Parmesan cheese on the side.

Listings

Pizza anyone?

• Advice for readers Restaurants are listed alphabetically and by type and region of cuisine. Each entry also features the price range for an average meal for two with soft drinks.

Cuisine by type Cafés

We were very excited to hear that Pizza Express is opening soon in the city. Lots of delicious pizza and pasta options, plus ice cream will be on the open sandwiches. Under Dhs100. Cafe Palmier Le Royal Méridien, Khalifa Street (02 674 2020). The Chocolate Gallery Fairmont Bab Al Bahr (02 654 3333). Lots of choccie treats plus paninis and savoury crêpes. Dhs100-200. Hanoi Khalifa Street (02 626 1112). If you’re looking for a delicious no-frills lunch, this is the place. Treat yourself to one of the delicious Vietnamese desserts. Under Dhs100. Hey Sugar Bakeshop Abu Dhabi Corniche (www.facebook.com/ HeySugarBakeshopME). This cupcake bar offers 15 varieties of delectable homemade fondant fancies and does custom orders for kids’ birthdays and other occasions. Dhs12-15.

Pancakes for breakfast

If you fancy treating the kids’ to a breakfast out one morning, check out the delicious pancakes available at Nolu’s Café. Baked fresh and with a choice of toppings, they are deﬁnitely worth a try! Nolu’s Café, Al Bandar. Visit www.noluscafe.com.

kid’s menu. We can’t wait to go! Opening soon. Pizza Express, World Trade Centre Mall. For more information visit www.pizzaexpressuae.com

Kitsch Cupcakes The Souk at Central Market, Al Markaziyah (055 265 0226). More a quick stop for a sugar fix than a proper café; little girls will go gaga over these cutesy sweet treats. La Brioche By Al Noor Hospital, Khalifa Street (02 681 3353). Oldfashioned café, full of Gallic charm. A great place. Under Dhs100. Leopold’s of London Cafe by day, brasserie by night. Great food, great coffee and a kids menu. The Reem Island branch is also situated right next to a playground so the kids can play until it’s time to eat. Boutik Mall, Reem Island (02 677 0071). Miss J Café Dana Plaza, Khalidiya (02 666 7800). Cute European-style café serving crêpes, coffees and light food. They also offer an excellent takeaway cake service. Under Dhs100. Monaco Café Al Muhairy Centre (02 634 2282). A top lunch or coffee-break destination. Under Dhs100. Nathalie’s Cafe Two four 54 tower, next to Khalifa Park, www.nathalies.ae (02 441 1330). Ninar Khalifa bin Zayed Street (02 672 2267). A café fit for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the fruit juices and selection of crêpes. Dhs100-200. The One Café Next to BMW showroom, Khalidiya (02 681 6500). Some things are just too good to keep a secret, and the café at The One is not only a great spot to stop for a coffee, but one of the best places to eat and drink in the city. Dhs100-200. The Living Room An oasis of calm in the heart of Khalidiya with home baked goods. Khalidiya Village, behind Khalidiya Mall www.thelivingroomcafeabudhabi.com (02 639 6654). Shakespeare & Co A favourite with the buggie brigade, this cutesy cafe has great kiddie meals such as ‘Little Miss Muffin’ (scrambled egg and sausage on an English muffin). Dhs150-250. Open daily Open daily 7am-1am. Central Souk (02 639 9626). Other locations: The Collection, Saadiyat Island, Deerfields Town Square and Guardian Towers Muroor Road. Vienna Plaza Austrian Coffee House Hilton Abu Dhabi (02 681 1900). Austrian-themed coffee shop with a range of light meals. Under Dhs100. Vivel Patisserie Khalidiya St (02 666 7338). Chic place to grab a coffee in what feels like the window of a high-

class clothing boutique. Great cakes too. Under Dhs100.

Regional cuisine Asian Benihana Beach Rotana (02 697 9000). Pure food entertainment, this teppanyaki restaurant with its knife juggling and flambé trickery is a huge hit for all the family. Dhs300-400. Sho Cho Trendy and popular Japanese sushi bar. Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain (02 676 6612). The Noodle House Souk Qaryat Al Beri, between two bridges (02 558 1699). Other location: Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7391). Nothing pleases nippers more than slurping noodles and getting away with it.

Italian BiCE Great traditional Italian food. Jumeirah Etihad Towers (02 811 5555). Biella Simple, straightforward Itlaina food. Abu Dhabi Mall (02 643 4005), Marina Mall (02 681 8114). Bocca Hilton Abu Dhabi (02 681 1900). Bricco Pizza and Pasta Every day Italian eatery with great pasta dishes and soups. Affordable fare and kid friendly too. Khalidiyah Mall (02 635 4162). Other locations: Mushrif mall, Mazyad Mall, Abu Dhabi International Airport and Al Bandar. Frankie’s Fairmont Bab L Bahr (02 654 3333). Hugely popular, Frankie Dettori and Marco Pierre White’s place does some excellent family food in a great atmosphere. Il Forno Abu Dhabi Mall (02 644 7511). Other locations: Al Wahda Mall, Airport Road, Khalidiya Centre. Huge pizzas and crunchy salads at pocketpleasing prices.

Mexican Amerigos Park Inn by Radisson, Yas Island (02 656 2222). Cantina Mariachi World Trade Centre Mall (02 627 1137). El Sombrero Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort (02 677 3333). An excellent restaurant serving a range of authentic food, with lashings of sour cream and salsa. Service is smooth and slick. Dhs200-300.

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 39

Food

Al Finjan Le Meridien Abu Dhabi (02 644 6666). Stop for coffee and cake or something from the à la carte menu. Al Majlis Emirates Palace Hotel (02 690 9000). This is the closest most of us will get to drinking afternoon tea at a real palace. The cappuccino (Dhs50) comes with gold flakes sprinkled on top. Dhs100-200. Art Cauldron Al Falah Street, opposite Navy Gate (02 644 4309). A well thought-out place, with plenty of comfy chairs and shelves of interesting books to get stuck into. Dhs100-200. Café Alfredo Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 2020). Great Italian coffee and delicious pastries and cakes. A hotspot for noisy children. Under Dhs100. Café Arabia 15th Street, Al Karamah (02 644 3000). A delightful and stylish haven set in a villa. The fresh Lebaneseaccented salads are delicious and the date cakes, made to the secret recipe of the owner’s Palestinian mother, are nothing short of addictive. Under Dhs100 Café Colombia Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers (02 644 3000). Excellent coffee, cakes, salads and sarnies in salubrious surroundings with top-end prices to match. Dhs100-200. Cafe D’Alsace Yas Marina, www. cafedalsace.ae (050 811 5414). Café de Foyer Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort (02 677 3333). Café Firenze Al Nasr St, next to the British Council (02 666 0955). Homemade pasta, pizza and salads are the hits at this relaxed and charming café. Under Dhs100. Café Mozart Al Raha Beach Hotel (02 508 0555). An elegant and relaxing setting with traditional English and colonial tea, a selection of pastries and

Health Sensory processing disorder Difficulty concentrating. Unable to sit still. Won’t listen. This may sound like typical toddler behaviour, but occasionally, it might indicate something more serious. We talk to Hannah Greenwood-Berry, from kidsFIRST Sensory processing disorder, also known as sensory integration dysfunction, is when sensory signals are misinterpreted by the nervous system, resulting in motor and behavioural responses that just aren’t quite right. Hannah Greenwood-Berry, occupational therapist and clinical manager at kidsFIRST Medical Centre talks about the condition. She says, ‘Sensory processing disorder and sensory integration dysfunction are two different terms that explain the same difficulty. Sensory dysfunction means that the individual has difficulty or disordered processing of the information or inefficient interpretation of the sensations from the body. For example, the child is oversensitive to touch, so she or he might find clothes irritating, or the tags on them. They may not like wearing shoes or socks, or the texture of aertex shirts, or someone taking their hand unexpectedly. Their reaction might be to pull at their clothes or refuse to walk on grass. ‘It can also manifest itself in not being able to ‘zone out’, in that the sound of a clock or an AC system is as loud as a teacher’s voice, making the teacher’s voice very difficult to isolate. ‘We have seven systems – sight, touch, taste, smell, hearing, vestibular (relating to movement, balance and spacial orientation) and proprioception (the sense of the relative position of parts of the body).’ Hannah explains that, considering all aspects of the sensory system, it’s important to note that the integration of vestibular, tactile — and proprioceptive senses has an effect on eye movements, posture, balance, muscle tone, activity level, attention span, and emotional stability. These systems ultimately affect eye-hand co-ordination, handwriting, visual perception and gross motor skills. How can you diagnose SID? Hannah understands that finding out whether a child has sensory difficulties can be tricky. ‘It is difficult to ask a child – how do you see or hear this? ‘It is only possible to identify their reactions through motor reactions – are they recoiling from touch? Do they struggle to sit still?

This can indicate a difficulty with internal processing of external stimulus.’ So how can it be assessed? Hannah explains, ‘Trained SIPT certified therapists use the Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (A. Jean Ayres 1989). It consists of 17 subtests requiring children to perform visual, tactile, kinesthetic and motor tasks. It identifies what elements of a child’s sensory system is being impacted and also highlights possible areas of motor dysfunction in a child. ‘For non-SIPT certified therapists, the Sensory Profile (Winnie Dunn 1999) is typically used as an assessment tool to highlight areas of difficulty within the sensory system and resulting motor and emotional responses. It is a questionnaire that

can be completed by both the caregiver and teacher. It determines how children process sensory information in everyday situations.’ What’s the treatment? ‘Once we have a diagnosis, or seen indicators that there might be some form of sensory integration dysfunction, we can start a treatment programme,’ explains Hannah. ‘This is in the form of occupational therapy using a sensory integration approach. This takes place in a sensory rich-environment, where we guide the child through activities that are structured to offer a ‘just right’ challenge. The sensory diet ‘Another important part of therapy is to have the child complete a

“sensory diet”, says Hannah. ‘It is a personalised schedule that provides the sensory input a child needs to remain focused and organised throughout the day. ‘Each child has a unique set of sensory needs. Generally, a child whose nervous system is causing them to be hyperactive needs more calming input, while the child who is more underactive or sluggish needs more arousing input. The effects of a sensory diet are usually immediate and cumulative. Activities that perk up your child or calm them down are not only effective in the moment; they help to restructure your child’s nervous system over time so that they are better able to: • tolerate sensations and situations they ﬁnd challenging • regulate their alertness and increase attention span • limit sensory seeking and sensory avoiding behaviours • handle transitions with a lot less stress Hannah Greenwood-Berry, kidsFIRST Medical Center, Al Wasl Road, (04 348 5437). Abu Dhabi, Khalifa City A. (02 555 1437). www.kidsﬁrstmc.com.

SPD, in my experience Lucy Parley, 36, is co-founder and editor of fussybird.co.uk. She lives with her husband Simon and their two children, Reuben, four, and Lois, 20 months ‘My son has always been a bit of a handful, but when he started a new pre-school at three and a half, I noticed every day was becoming unbelievably challenging. After three months of almost constant meltdowns and frustrations plus some funny little habits (putting on a strange voice at times, a developing difﬁculty with food textures, a ‘ﬂoppy’ body, unable to handle too many voices at once) I started to wonder whether it was something more than just problems with discipline, lack of patience or just “his age”. His pre-school had also brought up concerns with his inability to sit still, his funny voice and how he removes himself from any group

40 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

activities or situations. ‘Our GP referred him to see a paediatrician who assessed him and put him forward for some blood tests to rule out any underlying physical problems, then recommended us to see an occupational therapist. The therapist checked his fine and gross motor skills, audio senses, balance and physical strength through a series of tests. He was identified as having sensory modulation difficulties (he finds it hard to regulate his moods and the data his senses are taking in), poor postural control, balance and some audio sensitivity.’ Ru’s ‘sensory diet’ ‘We were given exercises to do at home and assured that these difficulties could be overcome, but that without intervention they

would only get worse. We have now begun fortnightly sessions, which involve therapeutic listening among other physical activities, and are working on his “sensory diet”. This involves not food but tailoring his physical and daily activities to give his senses the input they need to help him selfregulate. Being more switched on to him having difﬁculties has made a big shift with how I react to his meltdowns. Physical activity certainly improves his mood and I always take a buggy or buggy board wherever I go, as he gets tired easily and this can trigger a meltdown. While there are still days when my patience wears thin, we’re making improvements and I’m very proud of my little boy and how far he’s come already.’

Listings • Advice for readers While listings are accurate at time of going to press, events are notoriously changeable in Abu Dhabi. We strongly recommend that you use the telephone numbers provided to check for further details before a given event. For further information, visit www.timeoutabudhabi.com/ kids. If you have any comments or suggestions, please call 04 444 3471 or email timeoutkidsad@itp.com.

Useful Numbers Emergency

Ambulance 999 or 998 Police 999 Fire 997 Coast Guard 02 615 0260

Dentists

Advanced American Dental Centre 02 681 2921 American Dental Centre 02 621 9800 British Dental Clinic 02 677 3308 Dentacare Centre 02 627 0257 Dr Firas Dental Clinic 02 633 5988 Shaikh’s Dental Clinic (oral surgeon) 02 676 7895 Barbara Orthodontic and Dental Polyclinic 02 626 9898

General Practitioners

Dr McCulloch’s Clinic 02 626 2677 Gulf Diagnostic Centre 02 665 8090 Micheline Bombaert Clinic 02 676 9627 Al Mafraq Hospital 02 501 1111 Al Rahba Hospital 02 506 4444 Corniche Hospital 02 672 4900 Madinat Zayed Hospital 02 884 4444 Sheikh Khalifa Medical City 02 819 0000

Private Hospitals

Al Noor Hospital Khalifa campus 02 626 5265 Al Noor Hospital Airport Road 02 444 6655 Al Noor Hospital Mussafah Specialty Clinic 02 552 0777 Al Noor Family Care Centre 02 672 3400 Al Salama Hospital 02 696 6777 Brightpoint Royal Women’s Hospital 800 7676 Burjeel Hospital 02 508 5555 Hospital Franco-Emirien 02 626 5722 Lifeline Hospital 02 633 5522 National Hospital 02 671 1000 NMC Specialty Hospital 02 633 2255 Ahalia Hospital 02 626 2666 Dar Al Shifaa Hospital 02 641 6999

Pharmacies

Modern Urban Pharmacy 02 676 6496 Urban Pharmacy 02 445 8584

Beat the Cyberbully! We talk to Barry Cummings, chief awareness ofocer at Beat the Cyberbully, for his advice on how kids can stay safe while on the web What is cyberbullying? The use of electronic communication to bully a person, typically by sending messages of an intimidating or threatening nature. It is ‘traditional’ bullying taken to another platform. Singling out, defaming or making an individual feel uncomfortable in their own skin. The major difference with cyberbullying is the fact that mobile phone penetration is so high, that unlike ‘traditional’ bullying that may have stopped after school. Cyberbullying can be constant. As long as you are connected, it can be happening. Who can it affect? Cyberbullying can affect just about anybody using the online arena. It’s called cyberbullying when we are referring to ages ove to 21. What age range of kids could fall victim of cyberbullying? As aforementioned, anyone of any age with access to the internet and social channels can fall prey to cyberbullies. How do people bully online? There are a variety of different forms of cyberbullying: • Outing • Masquerading • Anonymity • Harassment • Flaming What advice can be given to a child who feels they are being bullied? The only advice we can give is to talk to someone. You are not alone in this situation and you would be surprised just how many people have gone through some sort of bullying. There is no shame in being bullied and we have to move away from this stigma - it is not ‘grassing’, ‘telling tales’ or ‘snitching’ the worst thing you can do is keep it all inside. The trick is onding someone to talk to and this is where it’s so important for adults, parents, teachers and care givers to get their levels of understanding to a level where they can be the trusted resource a young person turns to when they are experiencing cyberbullying. What action can be taken? We advocate not responding to cyberbullying attacks. Bullying is about power and by responding you put the power straight back in the hands of the bully. If you are on the receiving end of a cyberbullying attack, collect the evidence of the messages wherever possible. Evidence is key. The initial approach will always be to

proot initiative that was launched nearly four years ago in the UK and Ireland by Wayne Denner. We ofocially launched in the UAE in February 2014 - its purpose is to raise awareness and education levels around the digital arena. We focus on positive use of this amazing tool we have at our disposal, with core focus on cyberbullying, online misuse and online reputation. Our aim is to get people consciously thinking about what they are doing online, to keep them safer and allow them to use this tool to build the lives they want. It’s that powerful, we just need to use it the right way.

try and resolve these situations between those parties involved, unfortunately with anonymity online, this can sometimes be impossible. Is there any advice schools give out? Schools do a lot of work to help address the issue. They have been addressing the issue of cyberbullying for quite some time now and we know of schools that introduce this at year 7 and have spoken to those children and the message has deonitely been learned. There are amazing curriculum provided by the likes of Common Sense media, as well but we at BTCB tend to focus not just on the cyberbullying element, but more into the online reputation and further reaching repercussions of your online actions in your later life when thinking about going to university or getting your orst job. How can parents protect their kids? The orst thing they have to do is get their own levels of education and awareness up. There is a huge divide between parents and children today. Mainly because children are digital natives growing up in a digital world and parents/adults/ teachers are digital dinosaurs. This digital world did not exist when they were younger, as such it’s difocult to guide or be a trusted resource in a world you don’t understand. The Beat The Cyberbully initiative is a good place to start, to get an insight into the world your children are growing up in. It’s not going back to pen and paper, as much as we might want it to. Therefore our job as parents is to prepare our children for the world they are going to grow up and eventually work in. Tell us about the campaign. Beat The Cyberbully is a not for

Is there any advice schools give out? Schools do a lot of work to help address the issue. They have been addressing the issue of cyberbullying for quite some time now and we know of schools that introduce this at year 7 and have spoken to those children and the message has deonitely been learned. There are amazing curriculum provided by the likes of Common Sense media as well but we at BTCB tend to focus not just on the cyberbullying element, but more into the online reputation and further reaching repercussions of your online actions in your later life when thinking about going to University or getting your orst job. How can parents protect their kids? The orst thing they have to do is get their own levels of education and awareness up. There is a huge divide between parents and children today. Mainly because children are digital natives growing up in a digital world and parents/adults/ teachers are digital dinosaurs. This digital world did not exist when they were younger, as such it’s difocult to guide or be a trusted resource in a world you don’t understand. The Beat The Cyberbully initiative is a good place to start, to get an insight into the world your children are growing up in. It’s not going back to pen and paper, as much as we might want it to. Therefore our job as parents is to prepare our children for the world they are going to grow up and eventually work in. As Beat The Cyberbully we come into schools to deliver our power packed sessions that bring real life scenarios to cyberbullying and online reputation. We deliver speciﬁc sessions to students (age appropriate), parents and teachers too. For more information visit www.beatthecyberbully.ae.

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 41

Health

Public Hospitals

Ask the expert

Shopping School essentials First day nerves will disappear with this great selection of goodies for every new starter

Dhs95, Riviera Lunch Bag, Lakeland Monster gel pen, Dhs29, Virgin Megastore

Dhs145, Planes Backpack, Disney for Reebok

Dhs24, Disney Princess pen, Lifestyle

Dhs100, Flower Power lunch bag, Lakeland

Dhs145, Funny Hours watch, FlikFlak

Dhs56, Store and more containers, Lakeland

Dhs295, Cinderella Pump, Disney for Reebok Dhs119, Shoe Mart

Dhs295, Planes Ventilator, Disney for Reebok

Zoo Bee lunchbag, Dhs90, Mothercare

42 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

Dhs169, Shoe Mart

Listings

n’s Childrnee La

Dolly days

One for the girls! The latest doll to hit the shelves in Build A Bear this summer is the famous rag doll called the Lalaloopsy Doll. Each stitch has been carefully stitched on the dolls to give them a traditional rag doll feel. Dhs135. Available at Build A Bear stores. Visit www.buildabear.ae for more information. Sweet French brand Okaidi sells fashionable togs for active kids aged up to 14 years, and Obaibi, the range for babies from one month old, has babygrows, pinafores and dungarees in practical block colours. Osh Kosh B’Gosh Abu Dhabi Mall (02 644 8998). Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. This cute little store offers everything a preppy mini-New-Englander could possibly want, with a selection of cute cords and shirt-and-sweater combos for the boys, as well oh-so-precious embroidered dresses, skirts and cute little hats for precocious little madams. Prémaman Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 8600). Open Sun-Wed 10am-11pm; Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 3pm-11pm. Al Wahda Mall (02 441 7781), Meyzad Mall (02 559 1387), Al Bawadi Mall (03 784 0147). There’s little to prevent women from cooing when they enter Prémaman; the clothes are just too adorable for comprehensible speech. The shop stocks reasonably-priced garments for newborns to kids aged eight, as well as a number of charming solutions to everyday baby concerns, like car seats, tubs, baby food blenders and multifunctional carriages.

If you’re shopping for children and you’re on a budget, you’ll love it. Pumpkin Patch Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7488). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Marina Mall (02 681 1821). An adorable shop for munchkins of all shapes and sizes, from newly born to age 14. You’ll love the fresh and funky child-friendly gear on sale here. Clothes manage to be youthful and modern without being precocious. Babygrows are as soft as cotton puffs, knee-length skirts for young girls are colourful and comfortable, and boys get a great choice of baggy trousers. There’s also a vibrant range of accessories, like sunglasses, hairclips and jewellery for girls, and caps and belts for boys. Sergeant Major Abu Dhabi Mall, level 2 (02 645 9830). Open Sun-Wed 10am11pm; Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 3pm-11pm. Dressing children aged from 0 to 14 in colourful, cleverly-designed, cheerful clothes that are practical and easy to wear. Tape à L’oeil Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7466). Open Sun-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat 10am-11pm, Khalidiya Mall (02 635 4522). If your child fancies themselves as a Monte Carlo high roller, this fashion brand direct

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 43

Shopping

casual store. BHS Kids Khalidiya Mall (02 635 4566). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am11pm. Other locations: Al Raha Mall (02 • Advice for readers 556 0988), Mushrif Mall. While listings are accurate at the time of While not exactly an exclusive haunt in its going to press, events are notoriously native Britain, BHS does a roaring trade in changeable in Abu Dhabi. We strongly the UAE and, over here, the focus is primarrecommend that you use the telephone num- ily on children’s wear. Cheap prices and a bers provided to check for further details host of everyday basics make it a one-stop before a given event. For more information shop for families. visit www.timeoutabudhabi.com. If you Carters Abu Dhabi Mall (02 643 5403), have any comments or suggestions, please Marina Mall (02 681 9305). ring Time Out Kids on 04 444 3471 or email Desigual Abu Dhabi Mall (02 671 timeoutkidsad@itp.com. 9975). Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Quirky, colourful and casual, Desigual kits out funky monkeys beautifully Art supplies (and their mums and dads too). Art Beat Art studio and shop offering Charanga Mushrif Mall (02 491 7688). many activities, workshops, camps and Bright and colourful fashion for little ones art parties. Muroor Road on the corner of from this great quality Spanish label. 25th Street, close to Mushrif mall, www. Chateau des Enfants Marina Mall artbeatuae.com (055 269 8011). (02 681 0844). Craft Corner Airport Road, between Chateau de Sable Al Wahda Mall, Hamdan Street and Khalifia Street, opposite First Floor French elegance, exquisite taste the Fountain Park, Mezzanine No 2, www. and optimum quality at affordable prices. craftcornerabudhabi.com (02 622 2563). Chateau de Sable dresses your little ones Open Sat-Wed 9.30am-1.30pm, 5pm-8pm; with refined style that’s especially made for Thu 9.30am-1.30pm; Fri closed. Cash only. children. Amazing craft supplies for card, candle and DbBabies Al Wahda Mall, www.dbjewellery making, and scrapbooking; paints, babies.com motifs and murals for room decorations. Gap Kids Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7270) Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am11pm. Other location: Marina Mall (02 Book stores 681 1255).A long-time fave of cool mums, Borders and Paperchase Abu Dhabi Gap clobber ticks both the ‘practical’ and Mall (02 671 8980). Open Sun-Fri 9am‘adorable’ boxes. midnight. Books, books and more books, Giordano Khalidiyah Mall (02 635 4096) plus paperchase for all your cards and Gymboree Al Wahda Mall (02 674 stationary needs. 5955). Magrudy’s Al Wahda Mall (02 443 H&M Abu Dhabi Mall (02 671 8799), 7172). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat Al Wahda Mall, Delma Mall, World Trade 10am-midnight. Centre Mall.Affordable clothing for boys and The Abu Dhabi store is another well-stocked girls that’s bang up to date and great quality. branch of this rapidly expanding chain. Just for Kids Clothes, shoes and Children are well catered for, which may accessories for boys and girls aged 0-12.Al explain the legions of book-hungry kids to Wahda Mall (02 447 2126) be found running through the shop begging Mamas & Papas Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7273). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; their parents for the latest must-have read. Fri-Sat 10am-11pm, Marina Mall (02 681 WHSmith Al Wahda Mall (02 641 6889). Stylish and well-made, this UK brand 7454). Open 10.30am-11pm weekdays, stocks adorable clothes for newborn 10.30am-11.30pm weekends. bubbas and tots up to two years old. Marks & Spencer Fetouh Al Khair Children’s fashion Centre (02 621 3646), Delma Mall, Marina Adams Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7233), Mall. Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu, Fri Marina Mall (02 635 4521). and public holidays 10am-11pm. Adams is where adult trends get made From PJs to pants, swimsuits to party in small sizes, with price tags to match. frocks, this this iconic UK retailer stocks Suitable for children up to 10 years, there is classic, good quality kids’ wear as well as a an urban feel to the boys’ range, with lots limited selection of toys and books. of baggy trousers and print tees. Girls are Matalan www.matalan-me.com Delma catered for too with pretty pink tops and Mall (02 550 2080), Mushrif Mall, (02 650 cool skirts that are stylish without being too 0424), Khalidiya Mall (02 681 8808). grown up. Mom and Me Al Raha Mall (02 557 B Bush Marina Mall (02 681 8119). 4234). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat Monsoon Khalidiyah Mall (02 635 10am-11pm. Aspiring surfer dudes and 4523), Al Wahda Mall. skater chicks will find their spiritual home Nautica Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 8600). in this funky little urban store. Stocking Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10ama range of clothes so trendy it’ll 11pm; Fri 3.30pm-11pm. Other make you wish you were a location: Marina Mall (02 681 half-pinter again, B Bush is 7858). aimed squarely at the cool Following the theme of brigade. The range of the shop’s moniker, little sweatshirts, trousers, ones clad in Nautica’s boardies and T-shirts stylish kit wouldn’t ing k c ro , s will be appreciated by look out of place on clothe ue , s iq y n u to d gum-chewing young a yacht. They’d be From gant an hildren’s le e to rebels and too-coolhaving plenty of fun orses ieces, the C h le b ra for-school wannabes too; running around p do furniture rs a range of a Lane, and, with most items in the casual cargo e n’s priced reasonably, shorts and stripey Lane off r kids. Childre Visit . there’s no reason why polo shirts (for boys) items fo h AlKhair Mall . your young whipperor hooded tops, T-shirts orses Futou h g in k c snappers can’t suddenly and denim shorts (for www.ro .net find themselves the hippest girls). Not too pricey either, uk kids on the block. so mum and dad can keep Baby Phat Marina Mall saving for that big boat… (02 681 Next Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 5890). Open daily 10am-10pm. 4832). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, ThuIf your kids are more into Snoop Dogg than Sat 10am-11pm, Al Wahda Mall (02 443 Snoopy, Baby Phat will be their idea of 7033). It’s as well-known for its affordability paradise. Full of on-trend American imports as its bright, functional clothes and you’d be influenced heavily by the US hip-hop scene, hard pushed not to find anything your kids Phat Farm’s junior range will ensure that would like in Next. Check out the too-cute-toyour kids are more street be-true boys’ waistcoats and the pretty floral than Diddy. girls’ summer wear. Benetton Al Raha Mall (02 556 2483) Okaidi/Obaibi Marina Mall (02 681 Open daily 10am-10pm. Groom your kids 7740). Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, with an Italian sense of style in this funky, Thu-Fri 10am-11pm.

babies and families. Al Ain-based Percy can capture the precious moments of your baby in her studio, outdoor area, or the comfort of your own home in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, or Dubai. Kirsty Larmour Lifestyle photographer based in Abu Dhabi who specialises in capturing special moments including bump sessions and new born photography. Shoots on location in any place of your choosing. Newborn sessions from Dhs1200. www. kirstylarmour.com (055 814 0079).

Clock watch

Sports Beyond the Beach Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7201). Open Sun-Thu10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Great swimwear, pool gear and other sporty clothes for tots, teens and grown-ups. Canterbury Leading rugby apparel brand. Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7198). Mega Sport Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 6166). Open Sat-Thu 9.30am-11pm; Fri 2pm-11pm. Wannabe Beckhams and Sharapovas should head straight to Mega Sport, where they can get kitted out from head to toe with clothes, shoes and racquets, as well as all the equipment they might need. Stadium A one stop shops for numerous sports and outdoors brands. Mushrif Mall (02 673 7731). Sun & Sand Sports Hamdan Street (02 674 6299), Khalidiya Mall (02 635 4707), Marina Mall (02 681 2681), Mina Sports Market (02 673 4471). Open ThuSat 10am-12midnight, Sun-Weds 10am11pm. Sun & Sand Sports is one of the bigger sports shops in Abu Dhabi, stocking everything from gym equipment to tennis gear. The store also has a selection of skateboards and basketball hoops, where you’ll find a constant stream of kids playing on Sun & Sand Sports’ wares. Trainer fanatics may not find the latest cutting-edge styles, but prices are reasonable for mainstream Nike, Adidas and Puma gear.

Shoes

Shopping

If your kids are trying to learn how to tell the time or simply want to be cool at school wearing a watch, then check out the Flik Flak Funny Hours collection. The range opens up a world of adventure and creativity for from France is the perfect choice for them. Suitable for children up to 12 years, Tape à L’oeil stands for style at very affordable prices.

Maternity wear H&M Abu Dhabi Mall (02 671 8799), Al Wahda Mall, Delma Mall, World Trade Centre Mall.Affordable, brightly coloured fashion for mums to be. Judith Hobby Clothing One size clothing to fit UK highstreet size eight to 14 leaving room for that growing bump. www. judithhobbyclothing.com. Mamas & Papas Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7273). Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Pregnant? Head to Mamas & Papas, which stocks the chicest maternity ranges we’ve seen in a long time – the current range includes several beaded silk beauties, as well as casual linen numbers. Mothercare Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 4894), Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7252), Hamdan Street (02 621 9700), Al Raha (02 557 4602), Marina Mall (02 681 1781), Abu Dhabi Coop (02 449 8115), Al Ain Mall (03 751 5389), Al Muaji (03 754 0877), Al Bawadi (03 784 0700). A small selection of casual and comfortable clothes for growing bumps. Ranges include jeans, swimwear and underwear.

kids. Youngsters will love telling the time in the craziest, most colorful locations, from tropical rainforests to cupcake paradises. For more information visit www.flikflak.com/ funnyhours.

Najo Secret Baby & Lady Garments Mina Centre, ground floor (02 671 9007/673 6622). Specialist store stocking all sorts of mum and baby essentials, including baby clothes, pre- and postnatal products and stylish maternity wear. New Look Affordable, casual maternity wear. Open weekedays 10am-10pm, weekends 10am-11pm. Al Wahda Mall (02 641 3221), Mushrif Mall, Delma Mall (02 553 3150). Prémaman Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 8600). Open Sun-Wed 10am-11pm; Thu 10am-11pm; Fri 3pm-11pm. Al Wahda Mall (02 441 7781), Meyzad Mall (02 559 1387), Al Bawadi Mall (03 784 0147). Chic and stylish maternitywear at reasonable prices.

Party supplies Party Centre Al Raha Mall (02 556 5563, Al Wahda Mall (02 445 9595). Everything you could possibly need to throw the party of a lifetime, including foil balloons, a huge range of costumes, decorations and banners, pinatas and party plates. Posters Tourist Club Area (02 672 4724), Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7089), Delma Mall (02 551 6144), Abella Khalidiya (02 667 3990). Timings vary by store.Posters is a one-stop party shop, offering wildly extravagant costumes (the clown outfit is particularly terrifying while the bumblebee is just plain cute), magic kits

44 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

and token party accessories like balloons and confetti. Tricksters will be in their element, so watch out for whoopee cushions after you’ve taken your little darlings to this store.

Musical & entertainment AKM Music Centre Behind the Crowne Plaza, Hamdan Street (02 621 9929). Open Sat-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri 4.30pm-9pm, Muroor Rd (02 658 4954), open Sat-Thu 9am to 1pm and 4.30pm-9pjm, Fri 4.30pm-9pm. Treat your mini-Mozart to a visit to AKM Music Centre. As well as buying (almost) any instrument under the sun, you can hire a sound system for a truly awesome game of musical chairs. If your child is so far lacking in the musical talent stakes, you can also buy courses of guitar, bass, piano and drum lessons. Your neighbours will be delighted.

Photography Lisa Lundqvist (050 790 9774; www. lisalundqvistphotography.com). Every family wants photos of the children as they’re growing up, and now’s your chance to get some professional snaps put together by photographer Lisa Lundqvist. Percy Chang Portrait Studio (050 233 4987; percy@percychang.com; www. percychang.com). Unique portrait photos for

Clarks Marina Mall (02 681 0520), Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 6454), Al Wahda mall (02 491 8710), Mushrif Mall (02 693 7994). Clarks’ friendly staff will measure your children’s feet and ensure that they get sensible, well-fitting footwear that will last a lot longer than other, more faddy brands – it’s little wonder that the Clarks name is synonymous with sensible school shoes. Shoe Mart Madinat Zayed (02 884 0278), Marina Mall (02 681 6834), Delma Mall (02 551 2151), Bawabat Al Sharq Mall (02 586 4468). Shoe Mart offers several brands of children’s shoes, including well-loved favourite Startrite, and some slick-looking school bags to carry all the homework they’ll pretend they don’t have. Stride Rite Open weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 10am-11pm. Al Wahda Mall.

Specialist shops Babysouk www.babysouk.com. Essentials for hip little ones. BubsBoutique www.bubsboutique.com. Contemporary, organic baby clothes and accessories. DBbabies www.dbbabies.com. This website has a great selection of high quality gift baskets that you can fill with everything, from handmade patchwork blankets with satin trim to organic baby toiletries, clothes and toys. Najo Secret Baby & Lady Garments Mina Centre, ground floor (02 671 9007/673 6622) Specialist store stocking all sorts of mum and baby essentials, including baby clothes, pre- and post-natal products and stylish maternity wear. Claire’s Accessories Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 4861), Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7257),Khalidiya Mall (02 635 4223). Teenage girls would be lost without Claire’s. If they’re too old for the plastic jewellery peddled by most kids’ shops, but too young for ‘proper’ jewellery, Claire’s bridges the gap nicely with cute, affordable accessories and knick-knacks, complemented by bright flip-flops, bags and sunglasses. Stuck on You www.stuckonyou.biz

Order your own customised kit. This sticky Aussie business produces personalised iron-on or vinyl stick-on labels, which means that Georgie will never come home wearing Sue’s socks again. Bold colours and innovative designs mean they’re a fun way to identify clothes, bags and shoes. They also do a line of notepads, with designs ranging from fairies to rockets.

Special occasion

Toys

Buggy baby Check out the new Wayfarer accessory pack in Yellow by Silver Cross at Mothercare. This cool buggy includes a lie ﬂat carrycot for overnight sleeping and a pushchair seat unit for growing babies. Suitable for babies through to toddler age. The hood and apron pack create an ultra stylish look and offers a UPF 50+ protection for little ones. The hood is multi-positional with clips in various places. Available in all Mothercare stores. Visit www.mothercare.com for more details.

Are you trying to shop for the perfect kid’s outﬁt for a wedding, party or celebration? Take a look at the cute collection online at Le Mu. They have and bags to soft toys, dolls and tons of stationery. Pottery Barn Kids Beautiful furniture, toys, bedding and kids home decor. Delma Mall, open Sat-Weds 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Al Wahda Mall, open weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 10am-11pm, (02 695 4823). SandyPants (050 774 3394); www. sandypants.com/shop. Funky, contemporary toys, beautifullydesigned furniture and unique kids’ clothing you won’t find in a mall. Sanrio A paradise for Hello Kitty fans with every item you could imagine from pens, toys, clothes, luggage and more all branded with the familiar Hello Kitty face. Al Wahda Mall, open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm (02 445 3771). Delma Mall, open Sat-Weds 10am-10pm. The Toy Store Open Sat-Weds 10am10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Abu Dhabi Mall, www.thetoystore.com (02 491 9072). Toys R Us Toys R Us, Mina Port (02 673 2332), Delma Mall (02 551 6717), Bawadi Mall (03 784 0290).

everything from gorgeous tulle skirts to sparkly dresses. Suitable for kids aged two to nine years. For more information visit www.le-mu.co.uk.

You can bet your bottom dirham that if you’re struggling to find a specific toy in Abu Dhabi, you’ll find it here.

Malls Abu Dhabi Mall Next to the Beach Rotana, an old favourite in the heart of the city. Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Tourist Club Area, www. abudhabi-mall.com (02 645 4858). Al Ain Mall Open Sat-Weds 10am-10pm, weekends 10am-11pm. Kuwaitat Area, www. alainmall.com (03 766 0333). Al Foah Mall Open weekdays 10am10pm, weekends 10am-11pm. Al Ain, Al Ain-Dubai Road, www.alfoahmall.com (03 704 1010). Al Jimi Mall Al Ain, www.aljimimall.com Al Raha Mall Al Raha Mall sits on the edge of the motorway, next to Al Raha Beach Hotel. Plus points include a large Party Centre (popular with nearby Khalifa City residents), Zari Zardozi Restaurant and Marketplace, a small cinema and a Lulu Express supermarket. Fashion-conscious shoppers would do better looking elsewhere. Open Sun-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri 2pm-11pm. Abu Dhabi-Dubai Road, Al Raha Beach (02 556 2229). Al Wahda Mall Al Wahda is designed to look vaguely like an outsized Emirati dwelling. The ground floor is littered with coffee shops, and wi-fi is available at Cosi, Galler Chocolate and BriccoCafé. Shops tend to follow the high street trend, though there are stand-outs, including ID Design (interior) and Magrudy’s (books). The food court is split over two levels, though the most exciting food you’ll find is a branch of Beirut. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. Sheikh Hazza Bin Zayed Street, Al Wahdah, www.alwahda-mall.com (02 443 7000). Bawabat Al Sharq Mall Baniyas East, www.bawabatalsharq.ae (02 445 2525). Central Market This modern souk recreated in a traditional style replaces the original souk which sadly burnt to the ground. Pashminas, toy camels, jewellery and carpets a go go, this is the place to visit for all your souvenirs and gifts for friends back home. Al Markaziyah, www.centralmarket.ae (02 810 7810). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm Dalma Mall Abu Dhabi’s largest mall,

Dalma is well placed for residents of Mohammed Bin Zayed city, and has really started to fill up. It boasts many well-known names such as Pottery Barn, Gap, Coast and many British high street favourites including Debenhams, Warehouse, Top Shop, Miss Selfridge as well as a Carrefour and Cine Royal. There is also a Toys R Us and a Fun City to keep the kids entertained. Tarif-Al Ain Highway, opposite Mohammed Bin Zayed City. www.dalmamall.co (02 550 9555). Deerfields Town Square Open MonWeds 10am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. www.deerfieldstownsquare.com (02 501 0888). Fotouh Al Khair Centre More commonly known as the Marks & Spencer building. Open daily 10am-10pm; Fri 10am11pm. Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Markaziyah (02 639 3084). Khalidiyah Mall With a gigantic twotier Lulu Hypermarket, as well as Sparky’s kids’ zone complete with ice rink, Khalidiyah Mall is a one-stop afternoon out for many Abu Dhabi families. Open Sun-Wed 10am12pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. Khalidiyah Street, Al Khalidiyah, www.khalidiyahmall. com (02 635 4000). Marina Mall Still one of the most popular malls in the city, Marina Mall sits on the end of the marina breakwater, jutting out beside the gates of Emirates Palace, sharing space with the Heritage Village. While it features Carrefour, Paris Gallery and a cinema, the layout can be a bit confusing. Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu 10am11pm. Corniche Road, Ras Al Akhdar, www. marinamall.ae (02 681 2310). Mazyad Mall Mazyad Mall houses a reasonably large Lulu Hypermarket, a decent gym and a number of fast food outlets. Open Sun-Weds 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-11am. Street 79, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, www. mazyadmall.com (02 642 7100). Mushrif Mall A three level complex which houses a Sparky’s fun park, Lulu hypermarket, New Look, Lakeland, Sharaf DG and an aquarium. Open Sun-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Sat 10am-11pm. www. mushrifmall.com(02 690 4422). World Trade Centre Mall This mall is home to House of Fraser, Dermalogica, Spinneys, Nandos, and a range of other stores and eateries. www.wtcad.ae (02 810 7814).

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 45

Shopping

Build A Bear Make your own unique stuffed animals, bears, dogs and more. Open weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 10am11pm.Al Wahda Mall and Yas Mall, www. buildabear.ae (02 641 1190). Carrefour Marina Mall (800 7 3232), open Sat-Thu 9am-midnight, Fri 9am-1am. Airport Road (800 7 3232), open Sun-Thu 8am-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-midnight.Delma Mall (800 7 3232), open Sat-Fri 9ammidnight. Baniyas (800 7 3232), open daily 9am-midnight. Take a deep breath and dive in. It’s true that Carrefour can be a little hectic at the best of times, but this is offset by the low prices and extensive range of products on offer. Shelves piled to ceiling height with toys and books at bargain prices will appeal to any budget-conscious parent. Especially good is the range of outdoor items, from paddling pools to skipping ropes, footballs to tennis racquets, while the more indoor-loving youngster can stock up on crayons and art sets. Big kids will be spoilt for choice with a range of well-known board games and, should you feel the need to clothe or feed your offspring, those options are only a few aisles away. Early Learning Centre Abu Dhabi Mall (02 645 4767). Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-11pm. Other locations: Marina Mall (02 681 8868), Fotouh Al Khair Centre (02 621 5863), Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7103), World Trade Centre Mall (02 508 2400). With a focus on educational play, the wholesome Early Learning Centre is the perfect place for ‘sensible’ toys. Aimed at under-fives, ELC has a range of items that will stimulate imagination and develop key skills in your budding genius. Designed to help children to learn, to read and improve coordination, and there are lots of toys for road-testing chewing. Gulf Greetings www.gulfgreetings.com Al Khalidiya Mall (02 635 4543), Al Wahda Mall (02 443 7360). A small selection of toys and games from the Toy Store, including Barbie and Ben 10 favourites. JourneyToys Fantastic speciality educational toys for all ages. 15th and Old Airport Road (02 441 1208) Open Sat-Thurs 10am-9pm. www. journeytoys.ae. Lifestyle Marina Breakwater, Abu Dhabi Coop Society, Dalma Mall (02 681 2284). Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am11pm. A huge kid’s gifts department, with really cool affordable stuff, from keyrings

Sport Jiu-Jitsu When you think of Jiu-Jitsu, the word gentle doesn’t usually spring to mind. However, we caught up with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, to ﬁnd out exactly what the sport entails and where the description of “the gentle art” comes from

Tell us a little bit about the Jiu-Jitsu Federation? The Federation plays a leading role in supporting Jiu-Jitsu and contributing to building a strong generation of UAE athletes to excel at the local and international levels. The Federation’s role is to implement policies that develop the sport in collaboration with various government entities, educational institutions and other partners in order to advance the sport locally, regionally and globally. What age groups do you cater for? There is no age-bar to practice Jiu-Jitsu, but starting from four is norm set by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation training center located at the Zayed Sports City’s IPIC Arena. Is it suitable for both boys and girls? Yes indeed. Jiu-Jitsu is practiced

by both boys and girls because of the physical, mental and social beneﬁts it provides. However, we offer mixed classes for kids and separate classes for boys and girls. What classes do you offer throughout the year? During summer, the training classes are scheduled daily from Sunday to Thursday. For the kids, we have two sessions from 4.30pm to 5.30pm and 5.30pm to 6.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday while on Thursday the class is scheduled at 5pm. For the adults, the classes are from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. How often should kids attend a class? The classes are made available daily except on Friday and Saturday. A beginner should attend at least three classes a week.

46 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

What are the benefits of doing Jiu-jitsu? There are many benefits. Some include: Physical benefits: Jiu-Jitsu promotes greater strength, flexibility, agility, stamina and weight-loss. It reduces cholesterol levels and builds a stronger heart. It provides greater control of muscular and cardio-vascular health and improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure. Mental and emotional benefits: Jiu-Jitsu builds self-confidence and personality, and it teaches patience and composure. It enhances the ability to maintain concentration for long periods and promotes willpower, perseverance, hard work and commitment Social benefits: Jiu-Jitsu teaches respect for peers and adults and builds strong spirit of camaraderie and

new friendships. It maintains sportsmanship and the spirit of fairness and increases cooperation, interaction and teamwork Can beginners attend? We do offer daily classes for beginners from different age groups and advanced classes for those who practice Jiu-Jitsu for at least one year at IPIC Arena at the Zayed Sports City. Is it a dangerous sport? Jiu-Jitsu is referred to as “the gentle art” hence one of the safest martial arts to practice. UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Classes held at various clubs across the city including; UAE JJF Training Centre, Aljazira Sport Club, Al Ain Sport Club, Biniyas Sport Club and Aldafra Sport Club. For info visit www.uaejjf.com. (02 333 6111).

Listings Advice for readers While listings are accurate at the time of going to press, events are notoriously changeable in Abu Dhabi. We strongly recommend that you use the telephone numbers provided to check for further details before a given event. For further information visit www.timeoutabudhabi.com If you have any comments or suggestions, please ring Time Out Kids on 04 444 3471 or email timeoutkids@itp.com.

Diving Arabian Divers & Sportfishing Charters Al Buteen Marina Resort, behind UAE Central Bank, Abu Dhabi (050 614 6931; www.fishabudhabi.com). Snorkelling and diving boat charters available daily. Onsite facilities and professional instruction. Diving in Abu Dhabi Al Mina Zayed, The Club, Mina Zayed (050 444 8354; www.abudhabisubaqua.com). Affiliated to the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), Abu Dhabi Sub Aqua Club, a subsection of The Club, offers opportunities to dive in the waters all over the Emirates and in Musandam. Mahara Diving Center Various locations across Abu Dhabi, www.divemahara. com (02 643 7377). Diving and underwater photography for kids age eight and above.

American Academy, Aldar Academies Pearl Primary School (050 286 1041; terry@ esportsdubai.com; www.esportsdubai.com). Dhs35 per session. For children four and above. PASS Mini Kickers The Dome @ Rawdhat, Airport Road, www.proactive. ae (056 613 0262). Year round football courses for three to six year olds and seven to nine year olds.

Golf

Fishing

Ice skating Abu Dhabi Ice Rink Zayed Sports City, Old Airport Road, after Carrefour (02 403 4333). Timings vary. Ice skating Dhs40 for an hour and a half.Dhs10 entrance fee after 5pm on Thursdays and Fridays.

Arabian Divers & Sportfishing Charters Al Buteen Marina resort, behind UAE Central Bank, Abu Dhabi (050 614 6931; www.fishabudhabi.com). Snorkelling and diving boat charters available daily; sight-seeing trips available too. Time Out recommends an outing with Arabian Divers. Belevari Marine (050 661 2176 or 02 643 1494). Island trips from Dhs450 per adults, Dhs350 for kids. Captain Tony’s Eco tours, overnight camping trips, sunset cruises, boat and yacht charter. Yas Marina, gangway 2, www.captaintonys.ae (02 650 7175 or 050 781 9642). The Yellow Boats (800 8044; www. theyellowboats.com) Island tours, adrenaline trips and educational adventures. Contact for details.

Arabian Divers & Sportfishing Charters Al Buteen Marina Resort, behind UAE Central Bank, Abu Dhabi (050 614 6931; www.fishabudhabi.com). Offshore sport-fishing charters offered daily. Excellent year-round fishing and big-game sports fishing. Sportfishing boat and tournament tackle available. Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Next to Abu Dhabi Mall (02 697 9302 or 050 315 9181). Dhs900 per three-hour trip, Dhs1,600 for six hours (max five people), Dhs250 per extra hour, equipment and soft drinks included. Bookings to be made 24 hours in advance. Hiltonia Beach Club Opposite Hilton Abu Dhabi (02 692 4205). Fishing trips are available for a maximum of six people. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Corniche Road East (02 697 0272). Open daily 6am-6pm. Dhs750 for three hours, Dhs165 per extra hour (max six people). Equipment and soft drinks provided. Advanced booking required.

Bowling

Fitness

Abu Dhabi Country Club www. adcountryclub.com (02 657 7777) Open daily 10am-10pm. Four lanes are available to rent at the club. Armed Forces Officers’ Club Near the Grand Mosque (02 441 5900). Open daily 10am-10pm. Dhs15 (non-members), Dhs10 (members) per game, shoe hire Dhs10. This huge sports complex has four bowling alleys and boasts an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Bowling City Abu Dhabi Mall (02 676 0444; www.bowling-city.com). Several locations across the capital. Khalifa International Bowling Centre Zayed Sports City, near the ice rink (02 403 4648). Open daily 9am-1am. Dhs13 per game including shoe hire. A mammoth, international-standard 40-lane bowling venue.

Abu Dhabi Club Sports School Taxi: Al Mushrif, on al Saada/19th Street (02 657 7777/65; adcountryclub.com). Circuit training class for boys and girls, plus a whole host of other sports including gymnastics, swimming taekowndo and kick-boxing. Espana Sport AcademyAl Jazira Sport Dome, Muroor St (02 644 5508; www.espanasportacademy.net). Provides training in a wide number of sporting activities, including football, gymnastics. martial arts and swimming, in association with Spain’s top sporting institutions. Haddins Zayed Sports City, www.haddins.com (02 403 4233). A range of fun workouts for kids, Youth Sport Academy incorporates track, circuit, spin and boxing activities. Haddins also runs the Active After School programme. The Room Zayed Sports City.(056 331 0310; adele@theroom.ae; www.theroom.ae). Fitness and wellness centre offering a range of fitness classes for mums, dads and kids.

Adventure Absolute Adventure Award winning adventure tour organiser in Oman and beyond. www.absoluteasventure.ae (04 392 6463). Abu Dhabi Desert Safari www. abudhabi-desert-safari.com (055 484 2001). Al Badeyah Eyes Tourism www.abetuae.com (050 511 7122). Captain Tony’s Eco tours, overnight camping trips, sunset cruises, boat and yacht charter. Yas Marina, gangway 2, www.captaintonys.ae (02 650 7175 or 050 781 9642). Emirates Tours and Safari www. eatours.ae (02 491 2929 or 050 532 6837). Noukhada Adventure (050 721 8928). Overnight kayaking and camping trips to the Abu Dhabi mangroves.

Australian football Abu Dhabi Auskick www.abudhabifalcons.com/auskick (056 612 4221). Fun activites for boys and girls ages four-12 and their parents based on Australian Rules Football.

Boat and yacht charters

Cricket Al Ain Cricket Association Near Coca-Cola factory, Mazyad Road (03 712 1167/03 782 4001/ 050 623 1590; alaincricket@gmail.com; www.uaecricket.com). The association has full-sized cricket grounds. Coaching and tournaments take place during the season (Sep-Apr).

Equestrian

Football Abu Dhabi Football Academy Various venues, Al Ghazal Golf Club, British School Al Khubairat, Gems

Karting Yas Marina Circuit Kartzone www. yasmarinacircuit.com (02 659 9800).

North American sports Abu Dhabi Ice Sports Club Zayed Sports City, Old Airport Road, after Carrefour, www.adisc.ae (02 444 5552).

Martial arts Abu Dhabi Country Club Al Mushrif, on al Saada/19th Street (02 657 7777/65; s www.adcountryclub.com). Taekwondo, kickboxing, Judo, Aikido and jiu-jitsu classes available. Abu Dhabi Combat Club Near Immigration Office, Al Mushrif, www.adcombat. com (02 443 0355). Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Corniche Road East (02 697 0272). Mon and Wed 7.30pm. Dhs225 for 10 classes (non-members), Dhs250 for 10 classes (members and juniors). Introductory class Dhs35 for non members and Dhs30 for members. Karate classes for all levels.

Paintballing Armed Forces Officers’ Club Near the Grand Mosque (02 441 5900). Open daily 2pm-10pm. Dhs130 per person per hour including all equipment and 100 paint balls. For children aged 14 and over. Cassells Ghantoot Hotel Ghantoot, 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi (02 506 8888).

Rugby Abu Dhabi Harlequins Zayed Sports City (club, 050 257 1139 chairman Andy Cole, chairman@abudhabiquins.com, club captain Graham Murphy, clubcaptain@ abudhabiquins.com. A lively club with over 400 members – men, ladies, juniors and minis.

Running Abu Dhabi Striders admin@abud-

Sports clubs Abu Dhabi Country Club Al Mushrif, on al Saada/19th Street (02 657 7777/65; s www.adcountryclub.com). Class times and prices vary. Offers swimming, tennis and a basketball team.

Racket sports Abu Dhabi Golf Club At the Westin Abu Dhabi hotel - head over Maqta Bridge, take the Dubai road and the golf club exit is well signposted (02 558 8990; www. adgolfclub.com). Squash and tennis, racket hire available. Abu Dhabi Country Club near Immigration Dept (02 657 7777/65). Tennis lessons for nippy Nadals of all ages. Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Taxi: Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers, next to Abu Dhabi Mall (02 697 9302 www. rotana.com). Squash and tennis courts for hire, as well as group and individual lessons. Le Méridien Abu Dhabi Le Méridien Abu Dhabi (02 644 6666/02 697 4254). Open daily 8am-10pm. Squash and tennis courts for hire. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Corniche Road East (02 697 0272). Open daily 7am-10pm. Squash and tennis courts for hire. Lessons available.

Swimming Abu Dhabi Country Club Al Mushrif, on al Saada/19th Street (02 657 7777/65; s www.adcountryclub.com). Swimming lessons for kids aged four and up. Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Next to Abu Dhabi Mall (02 697 9302). Ten private lessons Dhs1400. Group lessons (max five children) Dhs600 for ten lessons. Le Méridien Abu Dhabi (02 697 4254). A package of 10 lessons for children aged four and up costs Dhs1275. Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Corniche Road East (02 697 0272). Dhs750 for eight lessons.

Watersports Abu Dhabi International Sailing School Opposite Marina Mall, next to Havana Café, www.adimsc.ae (02 681 3446; 050 821 4842). Part of Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, the school offers sailing lessons for adults and children. Abu Dhabi Sailing Club Al Mina Zayed (02 673 1111; www.the-club.com). A subsection of The Club. Beach Rotana Hotel & Towers Next to Abu Dhabi Mall (02 697 9302; www. rotana.com). Waterskiing and wakeboarding lessons and sessions. Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel Ghantoot, 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi (02 562 9100). Hiltonia Beach Club The Corniche, opposite Hilton Abu Dhabi (02 639 5997). Open daily 9.00am-6.00pm. Instruction in both waterskiing and wakeboarding. Noukhada Adventure (050 721 8928). Eco-friendly kayaking trips through the mangroves and fishing expedititions. Al Raha Beach Hotel Al Raha Beach Hotel (02 508 0555). A range of watersports with all equipment included. RJ Performance Marine Next to British Club (050 238 3154; rjperformancemarine.com). Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort Corniche Road East (02 697 0272). Sessions and lessons in waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Yoga Bodytree Studio Yoga for everyone including pre-natal yoga, Hypnobirthing antenatal education, post natal yoga, baby massage, pilates and more. www. bodytreestudio.com (02 443 4448). Let’s Go Yoga Adult yoga, kids yoga. www.letsgoyogame.com (050 349 2336).

August 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 47

Sport

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club Nr Immigration Office, Al Mushrif (02 445 5500; www.adec-web.com). Private lessons Sat-Thu 7am-10am. Group lessons Sat-Wed 4.30pm8.30pm. Compulsory annual membership Dhs500. Private lessons from Dhs175 per hour. Group lessons (about 10 people) Dhs50 for non-Emiratis, Dhs30 for Emiratis. Dhabian Equestrian Club & Equine Rescue Centre Nr Golden Tulip Hotel, Ghantoot. (050 662 0969; info@dhabianec. ae). Pony rides for little ‘uns plus a Juniors Club where kids can feed and muck out the horses and join in gymkhana games. Rahal Ranch Nr Al Wathba Int’l Endurance Village (050 622 9004) A private stable providing lessons by appointment.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club At the Westin Abu Dhabi - head over Maqta Bridge, take the Dubai road and the golf club exit is well signposted (02 558 8990; www.adgolfclub. com). Open daily 6am-10pm. Abu Dhabi City Golf Club bu Dhabi Golf & Equestrian Club, Al Saada Street (02 445 9600; www.adcitygolf.ae). A real Abu Dhabi institution set in the heart of the city, the club has a Junior Academy. Al Ghazal Golf Club Next to Abu Dhabi International Airport, after Mussafah Bridge (02 575 8040). Open daily 6am-6pm. An 18-hole, full-sand, 6,724-yard, par-71 course with top-of-the-range teaching technology. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Head out of town over Khalifa Bridge to Saadiyat Island and the club is clearly signposted (02 557 8000; www.sbgolfclub.ae). The beachfront Gary Player-designed course is the newest addition to the capital’s burgeoning golf scene. Yas Links Golf Club Yas Island, next to Yas Marina Circuit (02 210 7777; www. yaslinks.com). The region’s first links 18 hole golf course.

habistriders.com, www.abudhabistriders. com. A running club that meets weekly. See the website for more details.

Time in Friendship for kids Saying goodbye to friends is all part of being an expat. New friends arrive and old friends leave. We talk to Stefanie Opitz, author of Friendship is about Dubai, about how her book can help kids bid farewell to a friend Tell us a little bit about you I grew up in the rural part of northern Germany. Art is something very close to my heart; as a little girl I drew all the time and specialised in Arts at school. Although, I then chose the practical route studying economics, I never lost my interest in art. Even as an adult, I enjoyed reading well illustrated children books, especially when it’s a cold, gloomy day, which is very often during winter in Germany. In 2008, a job opportunity came up for my husband and we moved to Dubai. We have been in this fascinating city ever since. Tell us where the idea for the book came from? As a mother of two little boys, I saw how the first day at a new school was intimidating and nerve-wracking for them. I also noticed that they had to constantly deal and wrestle with the emotions of new friends coming and old friends leaving regularly, probably much more than in any other city. Knowing g that we would not be in Dubai forever, I wanted a keepsake book for my boys but couldn’t find what I was looking for. It was at this point, that the idea of my book came about. This book gave me the perfect opportunity to return to my passion, art, and to work on a theme that I had first-hand experience in. What is the book about? The book is about finding friendship amidst the constant coming and going in multi-cultural Dubai. The

main character is m an owl called Okelani who is new Ok town. On her first in to day at sschool, she meets three new fr friends. Together, the foursome discover the priceless value of friendship while exploring the city. The book ends on a bittersweet note as Lou the hippopotamus, leaves town but not before they take one last picture as a memory of their time in Dubai. At the end of the book, you can personalise it by inserting photographs of your time in the UAE. What age range is it suitable for? While this book was intended for children from three to 10 years. I have discovered that adults found this a great present for friends leaving the UAE as well. Who are the characters? My older son provided me with some great ideas when I was initially choosing the characters! The idea of the animal characters is that they are a reflection of the melting pot, Dubai: Tarun the Indian tiger, Lou the South African hippopotamus, Dina the Emirati camel and finally, Okelani the little owl.

48 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

Do you think kids here will be able to relate to the story? Absolutely! The ﬁrst day at school is an important milestone for every child and children remember very clearly that ﬁrst day. Settling into school and making new friends, then sharing new experiences with them are topics that all children can relate to. While reading my book in schools, I always start a lively conversation when asking the children if they know a friend who left Dubai. Where can we get a copy of the book and how much is it for? Friendship is about Dubai is available at Smitten, a trendy boutique for maternity fashion and kid’s clothing. Price is Dhs75. What advice would you give to

parents if their child is going to say goodbye to a friend? There is no easy answer as, to a child, having to say goodbye to a close friend can be the most heart-breaking thing in the world. Parents could remind their children that friendship does not end when a friend leaves Dubai. Technology today helps us to stay close to each other. As the characters in the book say, “we will meet again one day” and “I will email you soon”. What are the future plans? I’m currently working on my second book! The book is available in Smitten stores, Dubai Marina Mall. Also in World Trade Centre Mall, Abu Dhabi. Visit www.smitten-boutique. com, Dubai (04 451 9779), Abu Dhabi (02 622 4303).

Mum’s the word column

Mum’s the word

Louise Emma Clarke will be at the school gates in September – if she makes it out the door on time, that is… When I picked up my son from nursery on his last day in June, I asked him how he felt to be moving up to big school in September. He looked at me with sad eyes and said, “I want to stay at nursery!” I felt tears prick the back of my eyes as I took his hand d and lead him out the door for the last time, trying to commit the place to memory as we left. The pictures on the wall, the sweet library by reception, the friendly faces of staff as we passed, the sound of children laughing in a nearby classroom. The years my son had spent at this place had been happy years — and I was genuinely sad that we were saying goodbye. As I lifted him into his car seat, I tried to explain that moving up to a big school was a part of life and something to look forward to over the summer. It was a big step, but one that he should be excited about. As we drove away, I looked in the mirror and saw him gazing solemnly out the window. What had I done to my child? He was too young for school! I felt like marching back to nursery and telling them he was staying for another year. We didn’t have to doo this! What had I been thinking? But before I could put my reverse plan in action, he piped up: p: “I want hoola hoops! Can I have an ice cream? Where’s Daddy? What’s the time? And when we stopped at a red trafﬁc light: “This is rin-dincculous! Why are we not moving?” And just like that, life moved on. He couldn’t give two hoots about nursery or school and I breathed a sigh of relief. I didn’t think about the transition to school for a while after that day — until that is, I did some quick calculations in my head and realised we needed to leave the house by 7am every morning, which is a bit of a shock after our relaxed nursery drop-offss at 8.30am. When that one dawned on me, I spent a few minutes trying to work out how we’d manage it, before nearly marching back to nursery to demand that place

after all. How exactly do mothers do it? At 7am, my children are usually still in their pyjamas, smothered in peanut butter or jam, and

running away from me when it’s time to get dressed (does anyone else’s child do that? Or is it just mine that think it is hilarious to hide in the bathroom, wardrobe,

laundry basket when I approach with pants and socks?) I have no idea how we will manage to be up, fed, dressed and ready to leave the house by that time in the morning. I might start practicing for good measure. Maybe just once or twice. Or perhaps just think it through a few times. At least once anyway. Maybe. Possibly. Chances are, however, I will shut it out my mind until the day arrives and find myself in a blur of peanut butter, child hunting, and early morning tantrums on the first day of term. There’s also the issue of school uniform, which makes me feel a little bit nervous given my three year old has decided his new school shoes are ‘yucky’ and that he would prefer to wear his bright green beach sandals, along with his swimming trunks, and yellow goggles on his first day at big school. He also wants to take his bucket and spade, an old calculator, the saucepan from his play kitchen, and a skipping rope in his new school bag. He tells me that his new school teacher will think it’s all perfectly normal. I’m not quite convinced. On the subject of his teacher, he has been calling her “Mrs Envelope” all summer. This was mildly amusing at first, given it has absolutely no similarity to her real name. But now the weeks are ticking away, I have a very real fear that he will be addressing her as a piece of stationary once he’s in the classroom. First impressions count — and it’s not looking so good for my child, is it? With just a few short weeks to go, all these fears will be on my mind as the day creeps closer. So if you spot a half-asleep mum at the school gates, with a child in his swimming trunks and goggles, while smothered in peanut butter, and shouting “Mrs Envelope” at unsuspecting members of staff, it will probably be me. But let’s look at the positives… At least we will have made it there on time.

August g t 2015 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids 49

Competition WIN! WIN! WIN! A NEW PAIR OF ECCO SCHOOL SHOES WORTH DHS450 Make sure your child takes a step in the right direction this school term in a pair of ECCO shoes. The ECCO’s Back to School 2015 collection features various styles for boys and girls. Scandinavian brand ECCO’s latest range strikes a balance between functionality and style with great attention to quality. Crafted from soft, durable leather and infused with the house’s advanced shoe manufacturing technologies such as Direct Injection, these designs are guaranteed to last until next summer! These techniques in shoemaking allow ECCO to create shoes that ﬁt great, wear comfortable and go beyond the seasons. Kids can also have a preppy look with all-leather formals or they can stay active in high-performance sports shoes for their PE classes – ECCO’s Back to School collection has all of their needs covered! As the school gates are opening this month, we have teamed up with ECCO to offer Time Out Kids readers the chance to win a new pair of shoes worth Dhs450. If you’d like to win, simply answer the following question: What are the shoes crafted from? A) Wood B) Soft, durable leather C) Metal Answers online only at timeoutkidsabudhabi.com/ competitions by August 31st 2015.

50 Time Out Abu Dhabi Kids August 2015

SAVE T HE DATE

AABOUT OUT THE AWARDS We’re incredibly proud and excited to announce that the second annual Time Out Dubai Kids Awards will take place in September 2015. We ﬁrst launched Time Out Kids in Spring 2006 as a free supplement distributed with all copies of Time Out Dubai weekly magazine. Time Out Kids’ success and popularity meant that from September 2008 it became available to purchase as a monthly magazine. We all know that keeping the kids entertained at home or on holiday is a constant crusade and that’s why we strive to bring parents invaluable information, helpful advice and ways to save money every single month. We see our awards as the parental watchdog for the city, unafraid to tell the truth however hard it is to swallow and our independence is what makes us so different to many others in the region. Our awards have no advertiser inﬂuence, no external nominations and no public vote – simply our resident journalists and parenting experts delivering their verdict on the very best that Dubai has to offer for families.

T @TOD_Kids #TOKawards InterContinental Dubai Festival City

TUESDAY

29 th

SEPTEMBER

2015

Shortlist coming soon! For more information and to view the shortlist visit:

www.timeoutdubai.com/kidsawards For sponsorship details please contact: Richard Halaby, +971 4 444 3263, richard.halaby@itp.com For table bookings and more information please contact: tablebookings@timeoutdubai.com AN ITP EXECUTIVE EVENT