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From The Desk of the Editor-in-Chief
Friends, Dear
Ramadan-Kareem to all our readers as we turn the corner into August. This month QH brings you a very special edition with our Celebrate Summer Issue. We’re proud to unveil a new, distinctly summery look and style in lay-out and design for this supplement. Among the pages you’ll find a strong focus on family and kids with engaging articles on easy summer arts and crafts ideas, baking tips for tots and barbecuing tricks for Mom and Dad. We also welcome party planning gurus The TomKat Studio as they show us how to create a spectacular summer or Eid party. Traveling this summer? We have the best round-up of airlines offering special services for children and with September looming back-to-school is on everyone’s minds. Put yours at ease with our guide on how to prep your child for that all-important first day of kindergarten. We also have your complete summer kids listings guide with information on summer camps, workshops, and food and dining deals for the whole family to enjoy, plus much more. Thank you for making us a part of your lives.
Publisher: The Art of Busines Chairman: Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief: Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Executive Editorial Director: Moona Masri-Whitice Editor: Ashlee Starratt Associate Editor: Laura Prior Editorial Coordinator: Marlynne Mallari-Dela Pena Graphic DesignerS: Soné Moriarty Zahi Srour Sales and Marketing Manager: Deliah Furcoi Sales and Communications Manager: Jorge Granda Marketing Coordinator: Jeniffer Daclan-Ruiz Photographer: Jessie Palanca Finalizer/Production Manager: Srimani Welagedara New Media Manager: Susanna Wolfe Web Coordinator: Imran Khan Distribution & Accounts: Lanie Fillo-Pana Contributors: Jacqueline Bodnar, Jess Doughty, Victoria Scott, Kim Stoegbauer, Vicki Lynn, Gerald Tan Have Your Say: Feedback and comments are always welcome. Please forward letters to the editor: Email: editor@qatarhappening.com info@qatarhappening.com marketing@qatarhappening.com Call Details: Inquiries: +974 4427 8416 Marketing: +974 5556 5046 Fax:+974 4427 8415 Postal Address: P.O. Box 7848 , Doha, Qatar
Nasser Ahmed Hassan Bilal Editor-in-Chief FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @qatarhappening
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/qatarhappening
QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is published 11 times a year by The Art of Business, Doha, Qatar, an associate of Ahmed Hassan Bilal Group. The information contained in QATAR HAPPENING (QH) is correct at the time of printing. Details may change at any time without liability on the part of The Art of Business. Readers are advised to confirm details with the event organizers. All rights reserved 2011, The Art of Business. Reproduction in part or in full is strictly prohibited. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) assumes no responsibility for content of advertisements. QATAR HAPPENING (QH) retails for QR 8. Bulk subscriptions are available for QR 5 each, for orders over 50. 2012
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What’s inside EVERY ISSUE
SUMMER FOOD & DINING
4 8
40 42 44
Editor-in-Chief Letter QH Recommends - Kids Edition
LET’S HAVE FUN! 10 12 14 22 26 28 30
High Flying Families The World of Disney Magic Party Planning Royalty Celebrate Summer, Welcome Eid Sugar & Sweet & all Things Neat Get Crafty DIY Bunting
COMMUNITY 34 36 38
All for Mum & Mum for All Kindergarden Kids Schools in Qatar
Roll Them Oats Chilled Mornings - Cereal Popsicles Grill Masters
KIDS SENSATIONS 48 50
10 Things to Teach your Kids this Summer Mid-Summer Mamas
KIDS LISTINGS 54 56
Summer Camps August Summer Kids Listings
SPECIAL PROMOTIONS 62 64 66
Special Promotion - Mövenpick Hotel Doha Special Promotion - Nando’s Virgin Recommends - Kids Edition
For customer service and subscription questions, such as renewals, billing and account status, email info@qatarhappening.com 6
Recommends:
kids Edition
Here’s a few of our favourite things to keep parents and little ones smiling all summer long! A kid friendly sun lotion at last!
You know what a nightmare it is trying to keep your little one standing still long enough to put sun-cream on. Well I have very good news for you. Banana Boat sunscreen lotion for kids, in my opinion, it is a revolution in sun-cream. This is a sunscreen lotion you can spray on to your wriggling child in just a few seconds and there is no need to rub it in. It’s SPF UVB 50, tear free, invisible, quick drying, hypoallergenic and VERY water resistant. How easy is that? Just make sure you spray it into your own hands before rubbing it onto your child’s face and keep applying during the day. And what’s more, it has a handy click-lock cap so the little monkey can’t open it. Grab a bottle at Carrefour. Susanna
The Brainy Baby DVD series
Last summer, I was looking for some entertaining ideas for my little boy and found myself standing in Virgin Megastores’s video section staring at a great collection of educational DVDs! The Brainy Baby series is the perfect thing for my little one. It offers education and entertainment and is an award-winning tool that introduces subjects such as ABCs, numbers, shapes, animals, art, music and so much more. Another advantage is that it features children from multiple ethnicities and is available in several languages. I can tell you, my husband and I are amazed with these Brainy Baby DVDs; our boy at age two is able to recognize shapes, animals and can count from 1-10! Isn’t that great? The Brainy Baby collection is available at Virgin Megastore. Lanie
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‘Your Pregnancy Week by Week’ by Lesley Regan
This is heaven sent (thanks to my colleague Susanna)! As a first time mother-to-be, I don’t always know what to do though I am thankful I have my Mom, sister and friends giving ample advice. This book eases my doubts and questions with facts about this exciting phase of life, telling anxious mothers-to-be exactly what’s happening inside their booming tummy, how everything started, how the baby looks week by week, myths about pregnancy, monthly check-ups, what kind of foods to avoid and not, vitamins to take, exercise and more. Now I’m on my second trimester and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead in the next six months! This is a definite must for anyone planning to start a family. Marlynne
Baby Einstein’s Baby Mozart CD
Lullabies have long been used to calm babies and it’s for that reason I’ve been strapping headphones on my belly to play the Baby Einstein’s Baby Mozart CD to my first expected baby. Studies show that music helps in brain development and what mother wouldn’t want their child to have a leg up on their way to becoming a little genius? Not only that, listening to Mozart gives me relaxation and confidence, a feeling of strong bonding between mother and child, intellectual growth for my baby, enhanced emotional progress and improved fetal sensory development. As parents we want to give our child the brain-building boost that comes from music before they can even start taking lessons. So, turn off the television, turn on the stereo and start singing! Jenny
• high-flying families • party planning • arts & crafts
Let’s Have
Fun!
Families High-Flying
Flying with children is a trial many parents try to avoid as much as possible. Luckily, the world’s leading airlines do their best to make it as pleasant an experience as possible, as Victoria Scott finds out.
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Qatar Airways www.qatarairways.com
tel. 4433-3777
Baggage allowances: Infants are allocated one bag of up to 10 kg (or 23 kg for flights to the U.S.A. and South America.) Children (age 2-12) can check in one bag of 23 kg, except to the U.S.A. and South America, where you can take two bags 23 kg each. One carry-cot or push-chair is accepted without charge. At the airport: Families are offered priority boarding. Complementary strollers are available at the airport in Doha. On board: Kids meals are available, or choose the normal adult meal if you prefer. Call ahead to reserve a bassinet for infants, request permission to bring your child’s car seat on board, or order a toddler seat. Thoughtful little extras: The airline carries baby food and formula, nappies, lotion and wet wipes, perfect for when you discovered you forgot to pack any and you have a 15 hour flight ahead. Phew!
Gulf Air
www.gulfair.com TEL. 4499-8000
Baggage allowances: The allowance is generous - each infant is allowed one checked piece of up to 23 kg – a standard adult’s allowance in economy. At the airport: Families are given priority at check-in. Some destinations allow push-chairs to be made available during disembarkation; ask your crew. Push-chairs are available at the airport in Bahrain.
where the allowance is 23 kg. Child fares get the same allowance as adults. Families are allowed to bring one carry-cot or stroller into the cabin if there is room. At the airport: Complimentary strollers (and twin strollers) are available free of charge at Dubai International Airport. Families are given priority boarding. On board: The airline provides colourful headsets for children. They also provide complimentary birthday cakes. Children can sit in their own car seat, providing it’s approved at check-in. Thoughtful little extras: Unaccompanied minors are given separate check-in, boarded first and looked after by a dedicated member of staff. The airline will even take photos of your child on board if time permits.
British Airways www.ba.com TEL. 4432-1434
Baggage allowances: Infants and children have the same allowance as an adult passenger. Push-chairs and car seats can also be checked in for free. On board: The airline supplies child seats that fit into the slots designed for the bassinet. Alternatively, parents can bring their own car seats for children from six months to three years. Thoughtful little extras: If your child turns two while you’re away and therefore needs their own seat for the return, the airline will only charge you an infant fare for the whole trip (most airlines will charge you a child fare.)
On board: Gulf Air’s in-flight entertainment offers a range of TV and films for little ones. The airline also stocks baby food, nappies and bibs in case you’ve forgotten to pack them. Thoughtful little extras: Just whisper the magic words – “Sky Nanny!’’ Working on board all long-haul flights, Sky Nannies help with boarding and disembarkation, meal times, and give parents a break.
Emirates www.emirates.com TEL. 4438-4477
Baggage allowances: Families with infants can check-in one bag of up to 10 kg, except for flights to the U.S.A., Canada and Brazil,
11
of
The World
Disney Magic By Moona Whitice
Situated in the central region of my home state is the booming ultramega theme park city of Orlando, Florida. This city is a popular destination for kids of all ages, from 1 to 99, where there is something for everyone to enjoy. I have been visiting Disney World my entire life, (since it opened in California first and I was born in Los Angeles). My favorite attraction of The Walt Disney World Resort is the Magic Kingdom. The resort has four amazing theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom and two water parks, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach. Besides the parks you can count on 32 themed resort hotels and the fabulous entertainment, shopping & dining complex: Downtown Disney, which is home to the Marketplace and Pleasure Island (the latter will be re-themed Hyperion Wharf in 2013). Even with all the other parks Walt Disney resort has to offer, my favorite park is still the Magic Kingdom!
My Husband an
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Here are a few sential to tips I find es sit to these enjoying your vi e parks: amazing them
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1
Family Fun in Florida
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the Magic Kingd
Six Disney Parks
2
und e Disney resorts aro There are currently fiv under construction in er six the world with numb land of the resorts (Disney ur Fo ! ina Ch sort, Shanghai Re ris Pa nd World, Disneyla one n Resort, Walt Disney tha re mo st ho rt) Reso and Tokyo Disneyland rk is the “Magic Kingdom” te pa ori fav my ce Sin rk. pa t name is to officially carry tha (though the only park alt Disney World in Florida) at W the Magic Kingdom resort, I gic Kingdom at each Ma ch ea it vis I plan to ! ris Pa in the park have already been to the same…here are all I invite you to do the d. en att to n pla different parks to
3 4
6 Comming Soon
5 13
Party
R √
Planning
oyalty
Compiled by Laura Prior Pictures Courtesy of Vicki Lynn Photography (www.vickilynnphoto.com)
QH serves up more party inspiration than you can waggle a candy stick at courtesy of ‘The TomKat Studios’ founder and all-round fab festivity guru, Kim Stoegbauer. Here’s her guide to throwing the perfect celebration for your little prince or princess this summer!
I
n December 2008, Kim Stoegbauer decided to leave her career in real estate to stay home with her young kids, Tommy & Kate. Always crafty and creative, she started a blog to share her craft projects, decorating and party ideas. The blog name “TomKat Studio” came from the combination of her kids’ names. Kim’s blog quickly gained a loyal following and readers were asking if they could buy things that she was making, including hand-decorated frames and invitations. On a whim, she decided to open an Etsy shop. Within weeks she was overwhelmed with orders. Not being able to keep up with the demand, she closed up shop that summer and took a short break. She came back and re-opened as a printable party shop. Her designs have fueled the printable party trend. Her talents have expanded into photo and party styling, which she enjoys immensely. She frequently styles photo shoots for HGTV and other brands. She recently met her idol, Martha Stewart and was giddy with excitement.
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Kim Stoegbauer, Party Stylist / Founder of The TomKat Studio
Her business has grown very quickly and she pinches herself daily to be sure this is really happening! Now here at Qatar Happening, Kim shares her pearls of party planning wisdom! “My favourite party theme right now is anything nautical. I recently styled a navy and yellow Nautical Baby Shower for Pottery Barn Kids and I love the preppy, classic feel of the designs and styling.” Kim gushes. Kim’s favourite theme: Nautical Baby Shower
“I also loved my son’s Crab Shack birthday party, with the typical nautical colour scheme of red, white and blue.’’ See overleaf for this stunning party spread.
Dessert Tablescape by Kim 15
Left Top: Delicious delights Right Top: Lush layered salad. Fresh, tasty & healthy! Left Bottom: Rows of crab cookies, crunchyliscious! Right Bottom: Jaw-drawing, cheeky cherry sours 16
“I made a w elcome sig n using a life prese rver mirror from my Mom’s hous e! The bea ch hut sign has b een hangin g around in my garag e for a whi le and always com es out for th e surf / beach / pool partie s!”
“Tommy wore an adorable custom crab shirt from Smitten & Com pany!”
S
ince I designed a fabulous dessert table for my daughter Kate’s recent party, it was only fair to design one for Tommy! I planned a full spread of yummy treats and paper goods for the party! As always, I was inspired by the queen of dessert tables, Amy Atlas. Whenever I start brainstorming a party I go on a hunt around my house (and my Mom’s) to find anything that could work for decorating. So, as well as the party theme itself, nautical details were placed throughout the house. I enlisted the help of family and friends to bring some of the food. Lots of fun was had by all, with swimming, water balloon fights and delicious food & desserts.
“My Mom & I made our first attempt at Bakerella‘s cake
pops and balls! After a little
practice, they turned out fabulous! The sprinkles are really forgiving for hiding imperfections!”
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Top: White chocolate, crunchy and creamy delicious Oreo cookies in cupcake cases Bottom: Happy Birthday bunting tailored for the big day
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C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Left Top: Crab cupcakes - too cute to eat? Right: The (crab) cake! Left Bottom: Classic red roses and authentic wooden lighthouse
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Celebrate Summer Welcome “Hip
“
Eid
-Hurray! -Hip
22
KIM’S TOP 5 PARTY PLANNING TIPS 1. To begin, decide on a colour scheme or theme. 2. Determine location, date and time of the event. This will help guide you on what type of food/desserts to serve. 3. Create a focal point for the party. I usually design a dessert table at each party according to the party style, which grabs the guests’ attention. 4. Select party supplies to compliment your theme and colour design. Be sure to use hanging decorations for impact. 5. Party printables add the perfect finishing touch to any event. Labels, signs and tags help carry the theme throughout the party.
23
K
im’s Favourite Party Products king Cups Pretty Paper Ba bake (Can be used to in or fill with cupcakes right . Adds colour candy or snacks y) / pattern to displa
ns Desig Party le b ome a h t t Prin print a / t d e miz perfec (Custo ds the d a / dable party) / affor to the touch
Paper Punches
(TomKat printable designs are formatted to work beautifully with these punches and are
Tissue Paper Poms (Small cost: big impact! Add
perfect for making cupcake toppers, favour tags, etc. Much easier than cutting)
s colour(s) to the party space. Can be used as a backdrop for dessert table)
Milk Glass Cake Stands (Simple design, beautiful colours. Can be used over and over again for va rious party themes. Availab le in multiple sizes to create high variation on a dessert ta ble)
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These products and more available at www.shoptomkat.c om
Sugar & Sweet Take it local! QH shows you where to source your perfect party paraphernalia right here in Qatar!
Party Organizers & supplies ~ Celebrations Palace 4469-6959 ~ Elegant Events 4458-2722 ~ Fun Station Studios 4455-1808 ~ Partymania 4441-8810 ~ Party Balloon 4487-5424
Venues
From balloons to costumes, colour schemes to themes, call these local companies to lend a helping hand in bringing your party dreams to life...
~ Party Kingdom 4435-3501 ~ Patibon 4441-0480 ~ Qatar Party Solutions 4418-0376 ~ Royal Tents 4486-6455
For any budget, for any crowd, Qatar has a variety of fabulous and fun party venues for you to choose from. Here are our favourite picks...
~ Asiana Restaurant Opposite Old Airport, 4462-6600 ~ Bennigans Tennis Federation, 4483-0700 ~ Cafe Ceramique The Mall, 4467-1100 ~ Dairy Queen Ramada Junction, C Ring Road, 4432-0982 ~ Elly France Cafe Salwa Road, 4435-7111
Cakes & Flowers
~ Jungle Zone Hyatt Plaza, 4499-9665 ~ Kempinski Hotel Kids Club City Center, West Bay, 4405-3308 ~ Maaza Restaurant Family Food Centre, 4462-0077 ~ Ramada Hotel Ramada Junction, C Ring Road, 4428-1428 ~ Rays Reef Royal Plaza, 4441-3000
Whether fantastic florals or yummy, scrummy cakes, Qatar does decadence in spades! Call these top vendors to make it happen right here at home...
~ Amanies Cakes 6672-7978 ~ Cakes & Flowers 4427-0055 ~ La Cigale Hotel 4428-8888 ~ Opera 4468-8344 / 55 / 66 ~ Paul’s 4413-5501 ~ Simply Elegant Flowers 4436-6431 ~ Sugar & Spice 4483-9070 ~ Sugar Plum Cakes 6685-4579 ~ Tasmeem Flowers & Chocolates 4427-0044 ~ Wafi Gourmet 4487-5222
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& All Things Neat!
Tasmeem
Flowers & Chocolates Cupcakes from 10 QR 27
Crafty! Get
By Laura Prior l Photography by Jessie Palanca
QH sets you up with two fun and easy ways to get crafty with the whole family this summer.
Glass Jar Frames We hate the feeling of throwing glass away so go-green by re-using any old jars to create your very own range of super-cute photo frames! It’s so easy; just follow our step-by-step guide and your re-cycling genius will be ready to display to all in no time! WHAT YOU’LL NEED • A selection of clean, clear jars (free of labels) in a range of different shapes and sizes • A selection of your favourite pictures! • Scissors • Ribbon Step 1: Measure how tall your jar is against the size of your photos. Pair up the ones that match best in shape and size. Step 2: Roll up the photo slightly and slide it into the jar so that the photo will be right-side-up when the jar is upside-down. Push it into place carefully with your fingers. Step 3: Turn the jar upside down and decorate with sweet-coloured ribbon that matches your home décor. STEP 4: Style in a cool fashion with any accessories you have around the house and display your simple thrifty genius with pride!
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29
Diy Bunting Nothing says trendy summer party more than dancing rows of kitsch, multi-coloured bunting. With our simple cut-out template and easy to follow guide, your bash will be beautifully bunting-clad in a flash! WHAT YOU’LL NEED • Our funky bunting stencil! • Scissors • Pencil • Ruler • Pinking shears • Fabric (felt or paper) • Pins • Needle and thread (or a sewing machine) • Ribbon (wider than 2 cm) • An iron STEP 1: Use our triangle template on page 32 to ensure all your bunting flags are the same size. STEP 2: Use the pencil to trace the triangles onto your chosen fabric. Mix and match materials or colours for a quirky touch. (Make sure to rotate the template each time you draw another triangle to minimize wasted fabric). STEP 3: Use pinking shears (they prevent fraying) to cut the fabric triangles. Repeat until you have enough flags to stretch across your space. STEP 4: Cut a piece of ribbon the length of the space you want to hang the bunting. Fold it in half from top to bottom. We recommend you iron a line to keep the fold in place. STEP 5: Space the flags evenly along the ribbon, putting the top edges of the flags inside the fold of the ribbon. Pin in place and then sew using either a machine or secure back-stitch. Leave at least 40 cm on either side to hang the bunting. (If you are using paper, simply staple the flags to the ribbon). STEP 6: Hang indoors or out. Stand back and admire your glorious work then get ready to party!
30
31
Bunting Template 7.5" 6" 4.5"
3"
Follow instructions on page 30 to create your own bunting 32
• doha mums • back-toschool-cool
Community
All for Mum and Mum for All!
By Laura Prior l Photos & clothing courtesy of M&S
Calling all Mums in the sun, if getting away for the entire summer just isn’t an option, fear not - you’re not alone! There’s a whole troop of ‘Mumsketeers’ right here in Doha in the form of community lifeline ‘Doha Mums’. QH grabs a cuppa with busy founder Roxanne Davis to chat about the growth of this 24/7, 365 days-a-year network and how it can keep you connected the whole summer long.
34
Roxanne’s Tips for Summer Mums THE BEGINNING When Roxanne Davis landed in Doha in October 2008 she had a mission in mind. Having already administrated a support group for Mums from her hometown of Houston, U.S.A. before arriving, she instantly adopted the role of mother hen and formed Doha Mums. Having come a long way from grabbing the unsuspecting arms of women in the supermarket aisles to tell them about “this new Mums group I’ve set up!”, four years later and the network has bloomed into 1,100+ members. Roxanne credits this to the organic community feel that’s been created. ‘’When you’re a Mum and new to a strange country your worst fear is being alone,” she explains. “The idea behind the group was never to allow this to happen. By creating so many opportunities to connect, whether via the online forum, at a new arrivals coffee or a park day, the variety of events means there’s something there for every Mum. It’s a genuine support network where everyone is there for each other.’’ GROWTH OF THE GROUP What makes Doha Mums so unique is that although it has roots in traditional playgroup meetings it does so much more by branching out to many diverse post-play gatherings, specialist support groups, events and even a children’s library. Roxanne enthuses: “The coffee meetings grew, then came the other dates and events and now we have depression, cancer and new Mums support groups, not to mention our first of its kind to Doha, The Children’s Library. Our members worked so hard to get the library up and running, we are extremely proud of it! Recently we also held our annual Summer Market which was a great success and we’ve already started planning for the fall!’’ MUMS IN THE SUN Speaking of summer, we’re intrigued to find out when the thermometer rises to fever pitch and many head for cooler climes - what of the Mums Doha-bound? “Over the past four years, we’ve worked out new ways that Mums can still stay connected in summer,” she says. “We continue our coffee meetings and have also pooled together through our website all the Mums who want to volunteer to host an event – however big or small – at their house or compound. Now we have regular pool and coffee dates all over the city during the summer. If a handful of Moms volunteer, it creates a ripple effect until there are a few events every week, so there’s plenty to do. It’s really working and I encourage all Mums to join us. We’re all in the same boat after all!’’
Roxanne Davis,
under
Doha Mums Fo
• Join Doha Mums! Visit our website for details on how to join, it’s very easy. • Attend an event Come along to one of our informal coffee meetings or other events to join the group. • Host an event If you’re already a member, why not volunteer to host an event – big or small? Details on how to do so are on the website. • Use our ‘Ask!’ service We have a great tool on the website where you can ask any question about family life in Doha whether accommodation, schools or work. Submit your question and our pool of nominated members will get back to you with their gold-dust advice! • Pick up a copy of our new ‘Doha Family Guide’ This summer we’re launching Doha’s first dedicated ‘family guide’ with all the updated info on where to shop and buy family services. Pick up a copy when you’re out and about. • Use our ‘Borrow!’ service Again another excellent tool via our website. If you need to borrow something, instead of buying just ask our members who’ll be happy to oblige if they can. Maybe you have family visiting and need to borrow a car seat for your little one? For a small donation, this is a fab alternative to forking out for a new one! • Get organized for the new school year Sounds like a no-brainer (and we know it’s vacation time), but things can move slowly here in Qatar so I’d advise planning ahead for the new school year as much as possible. School uniforms can be notoriously tricky so order early, call the shop and call again to make sure they arrive in time for the new term! • Don’t mope! Instead of moping around and complaining that there’s nothing to do, take action! Get involved or instigate something yourself! Connect with other Mums and kids and have a fun, summer holiday. For membership info and more visit www.dohamums.com. 35
indergarten Kids
By Jacqueline Bodnar
September’s nearly here and a big issue many parents will face this school year is whether or not their little one is ready for kindergarten. For a variety of reasons, many children don’t go to pre-school and even if they do it’s still important they learn some basic skills before starting kindergarten. Making sure that your child is ready verbally, socially and physically will help ensure their success.
Simple ways you can make learning an informal, but consistent event: - Count fingers and toes when bathing. - Choose between different colours. - Count the number of stairs you come across. - Have your child cut letters out of a magazine to spell their name. - Let your child use a marker to write letters on milk carton lids and use them to spell words. - Always have lots of books, paper and crayons around so that your child can pretend to read and write. 36
The requirements “I don’t believe there are any set in stone requirements students should meet before starting kindergarten,” says U.S based kindergarten teacher Mimi Garcia. She explains that students coming from homes that are language-rich seem to do very well. “Whether or not these students come to me knowing all of their letters, shapes or numbers, they still catch on quickly because they are curious and have a great willingness to learn,” she says. Tips There are some areas that you can work on with your child to help get them off to a good start. Keep in mind that all children develop at a different pace so your child may only be able to do some of these suggestions.
• Physical skills that your child will benefit from having include: 1- being able to use scissors to accurately cut something out 2- having the ability to independently take off and put on a coat, boots and shoes Preparing for the big day Before school starts, talk to your child about it. Give them a good idea of what they can expect on their first day. If possible, take them down to the school for a tour and make sure they know the name of their teacher
• Some basic language skills your child should have include: 1- being able to talk to other people about an event or object 2- having the ability to answer and ask simple questions and follow basic instructions 3- being able to identify some pictures in magazines, books or on television • When it comes to mathematics your child should be able to: 1- understand that numbers are used to count 2- be able to use words such as less, more, many 3- can see that there is a difference in shapes 4- has a basic understanding of opposites • Some personal and social skills are: 1- knowing their own name and address 2- knowing how to use the bathroom on their own 3- is able to adapt to new experiences or places 4- can sit and listen to a short story and use their imagination
and principal. Be sure to have a good attitude when you talk about school and visit the school so your child picks up on that. If you seem excited about what they will be doing then they will likely be excited as well. One way you can learn more about your child’s school is to volunteer. Most schools love to have parents volunteer and it gives you the opportunity to learn more about the school and meet the staff.
37
s l o o h c S in Qatar
Doha Academy (Private)
Doha Montessori British School
www.dohaacademy.net Doha Academy Secondary Girls – Mamoura P.O. Box 9691 Tel: (+974) 4458 1915 Tel: (+974) 4458 1966 Email: dohaacademy@qatar.net.qa Accounts’ Department: Tel: (+974) 4469 1887 Doha Academy Secondary Boys – Mamoura P.O. Box 9691 Tel: (+974) 4469 6486 Fax: (+974) 4469 6486 Email: dohaacademy@qatar.net.qa Accounts Department: Tel: (+974) 4469 1887 Uniform: Lord Fashions Al-Mansoura – Doha – Qatar Tel: (+974) 4432 8902 Contact Numbers: General Manager: (+974) 4436 412 Call Centre: (+974) 5586 4157
Qatar Academy
www.qa.edu.qa Email: qataracademy@qf.org.qa Tel: (+974) 4454 2000 Fax: (+974) 4454 2026 PO Box 1129, Doha, Qatar Uniform: School
The English Modern Private School
www.emsdoha.net Email: theems@qatar.net.qa Tel: (+974) 4488 3806 / 3807 / 3816 Fax: (+974) 4488 3819 Uniform: School
Al Maha Academy
www.dohabritishschool.com Email: info@dohabritishschool.com Tel: (+974) 4450 2257 / 9 Fax: (+974) 4450 2235 Uniform: ZAK'S, Salwa Road
www.globalacademyqatar.org Email: ismat_sheikh40@hotmail.com Tel: (+974) 4465 5001 Fax: (+974) 4465 2823 Uniform: School
Middle East International Private School
Cambridge International Private School – for Girls
www.misqatar.com Email: misinfo@misqatar.com Tel: (+974) 4444 9892 / 4441 6453 Fax: (+974) 4431 4988 Uniform: Lord Tailoring
The International School of Choueifat Private www.iscdoha-sabis.net Email: iscdoha@sabis.net Tel: (+974) 4493 3110 / 2 / 3 / 4 Mobile: (+974) 5549 1607 Fax: (+974) 4483 5874 Uniform: School Term: September 9, 2012
Park House English Private School
www.parkhouseschool.com/Home Email: info@parkhouseschool.com Tel: (+974) 4468 3800 Fax: (+974) 4458 3785 Uniform: School Term: August 26, 2012
Newton International Private School
www.newtoninternationalschool.edu.qa/westbay_school
Email: info.westbay@newtoninternationalschool.edu.qa www.almahaacademy.com.qa Tel: (+974) 4493 5507 Email: infoboys@almahaacademy.com.qa Mob: (+974) 5586 8352 Tel: (+974) 4444 0122/ 4428 0777 Fax: (+974) 4493 5508 Fax: (+974) 4458 3575 Uniform: School Uniform: Available in School Term: September 9, 2012
38
Global Academy International Private
www.cisgqatar.com Email cisg@qatar.net.qa Tel: (+974) 4465 9106 / 4467 1530 Fax: (+974) 4465 9093 Uniform: School
Compass International School
www.cisdoha.com Email: admissions@wclschools.org Sam Ford Tel: (+974) 4487 7445 Uniform: Online Shop Term: September 9, 2012
American School of Doha www.asd.edu.qa Email: webmaster@asd.edu.qa Tel: (+974) 4459 1500 Fax: (+974) 4459 1570 Uniform: Zak's Trading Company Term: August 29, 2012
Loydence Academy
www.loydenceacademy.com/index.php Email: info@loydenceacademy.com Tel: (+974) 4411 2224 / 5554 Uniform: School Term: September 9, 2012
Doha College Primary School
www.dohacollege.com Tel: (+974) 4468 4495 / 7897 Secondary & 6th Form Tel: (+974) 4468 7379 / 5720 Term: September 9, 2012
• barbecue kings • kids in the kitchen
Summer Food
& Dining Fun
Roll Them
Oats! By Gerald Tan l Photography by Jessie Palanca
For the wee ones in the kitchen the more tactile and hands on the better. Gerald Tan takes us down memory lane with a kid-friendly recipe that’s ooey-gooey, chewy and most importantly fun – homemade granola bars! y earliest kitchen memories take me back to when I was four. I was obsessed with the mortar and pestle. I spent many contented hours pounding onions and garlic into paste, grinding spices into powder. Who knew manual pulverizing would keep a rambunctious tyke so entertained?
M
Little did I realize how formative those years would be, nurturing an unwavering love and respect for freshlyprepared food. It’s for this reason that I’m a proponent of children dabbling in the kitchen. Good nutrition needs getting used to. If kids see how easy it is to prepare, let’s say, a burger at home that’s both healthy and mouth-watering, why would they entertain the thought of a drive-thru? I’m no psychologist, but I think it safe to say the young feel immense pride in their creations. We’ve all been there – we know how terrific it felt when we got to present our latest art project (or scrawl) to the unsuspecting neighbour who’d popped in for tea and gossip with Mummy. So why not let children show-off and share a snack that they’ve made? I propose a batch of granola bars. They’re a cinch to prepare, hardy enough to withstand most climates and are a nutrient-packed, portable snack. Best of all, they can be customized with a myriad of mix-ins: think wholesome (almonds, apricots, flax seeds) or indulgent (M&Ms, butterscotch chips, maple candy). If nothing else, this is a brilliant way to clear out the larder. 40
Kids can get very involved in making granola bars, from picking out their favourite ingredients to measuring them out. Then there’s the stirring; don’t ask me why, but kids love to stir. I reckon it’s because they can play with the food, make a mess, and then stop to snack on what’s inside. Some look forward to a brownie or cake batter because they get to lick the prep bowl and spatula right at the end. I’ve personally never been a fan due to a peculiar phobia of salmonella from the presence of raw eggs. That’s another reason I think granola bars are a safer bet to start with the young: all the individual ingredients are fine to eat as is. Plus there’s always the spoon used to scoop peanut butter and honey as a reward. Baking at home allows kids to see first-hand exactly what goes into their food. Over time, they’ll learn to tailor recipes to palates and dietary needs (or ask you to). Want something less sweet? Cut down the sugar.
Granola Bars
Like more tang? Up the lemon juice. In addition, goodies such as sugar cookies and gingerbread men allow for unbridled creativity during the decorating process. At the end of the day, it boils down to getting kids comfortable and excited in the kitchen – new recruits to the oven fraternity are gladly received. For me, it was the trilling smite of pestle against mortar that started this journey. You never know; the low thumps of a rolling pin or whir of a whisk might just be the very sound that lights the spark in your junior Master Chef. Any comments, feedback, tips or cousin Priscilla’s not-so-secret recipes gladly welcome. Do share how the granola bars turn out. I’m on Twitter @GeraldoTan.
Ingredients: • 75 gm butter. • ½ cup brown sugar • ½ cup honey • ½ cup peanut butter (*if omitting for allergies, increase honey to ¾ cup) • 1 teaspoon vanilla • ½ teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder • ½ cup flour (*even healthier if replaced with wheat germ) • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats • 1 cup shredded coconut • 2 cups of mix-ins (any combination of chocolate chips, nuts, pumpkin/ sunflower seeds or dried fruit; e.g. cranberries, raisins, dates, apricots, cherries)
Utensils: • 1 saucepan bowl • 1 baking tray/casserole dish • parchment/baking /wax paper Instructions: Line a baking tray or dish with parchment paper. Toss in the flour, oats, coconut and mixins until thoroughly combined. Heat the butter in a saucepan, then add sugar, honey, peanut butter, vanilla, salt and cinnamon powder. Stir until sugar is dissolved and mixture is hot but not boiling. Pour over the dried ingredients. Lightly press together into a thin layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celcius for 2025 minutes until light golden. Remove from oven. While warm, cut into squares or long bars (they’ll get too brittle once cooled).
41
C with
hilled Mornings
Cereal Popsicles By Laura Prior l Photography by Jessie Palanca
Make breakfast extra cool and extra fun with these cereal popsicles! Great for chilling in the summer mornings with the whole family and totally suitable for small and big kids alike!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED • Zoku popsicle mould (available at Virgin Megastore Landmark) • 2 Cups milk • 1 Cup cream • 1/4 Cup sweetened condensed milk • 2 Tablespoons of brown sugar • 1/8 Teaspoon salt • 1 Cup Nesquik Duo or Fruit Loops cereal • Bowl 42
1
In a bowl, combine the milk and cream. Stir slightly and let steep for 20 minutes.
2 In a glass measuring cup combine the liquid with sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and salt. Heat for 1 minute and stir until sugar is dissolved. Cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
3
4 Repeat and let freeze for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the popsicles and eat immediately.
Get out the Zoku mould and put about 10 pieces of chosen cereal at the bottom of each popsicle mould. Put the popsicle stick in, crushing the cereal slightly as you make sure it is firmly in the mould. Pour in some of the cereal milk, add some more cereal, and then fill up with more milk. The cereal will probably get a bit crushed in some spots, but that’s okay.
“smomy !” yu 43
Grill
Masters Compiled by Ashlee Starratt
Slather it ! Smoked Beef Ribs with Espresso Barbecue Sauce Every slab of meat on the grill needs a good base. We’ve got exactly what you need to spice things up with this winner of a home-made barbecue sauce. Use it on beef, chicken, or lamb – it doesn’t matter, it’s the perfect blend of sweetness and tang with an extra kick. The secret ingredient? Espresso! Ingredients • 6 pounds (3 racks) beef ribs • Sea salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 2 Tbsp olive oil • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 2 Tbsp minced garlic • 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes or 1 can (15 oz) tomatoes • 3/4 cup molasses • 3/4 cup honey • 2 Tbsp course Dijon mustard • 1/2 cup espresso (You can use dried espresso powder reconstituted with water) 44
Preparation • Season the ribs on both sides with salt and pepper and set aside. • To make the espresso BBQ sauce, put olive oil in saucepan. • Sauté onions until caramelized. • Add garlic and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes or until garlic starts to turn golden. • Add tomatoes, molasses, honey, mustard and espresso and simmer until thickened; approximately 30 minutes. • Put sauce into a blender, half a batch at a time and blend until smooth. • Baste ribs generously with the sauce and start them grilling on the barbecue, turning them over until juicy and crisp.
Source: www.creative-culinary.com
ADVERT 7
Skewer it !
Spicy Barbecue Shrimp Keep it fast and fresh with this fast dinner fix. Plump, succulent and full of flavour, shrimp or prawns take no time to cook over the flames and when paired with a delicious side of potato salad or mixed greens? Summer perfection! Ingredients • 2 Tbsps light soy sauce • 2 Tbsps butter • 2 Tbsps olive oil • 1 Tsp dried oregano leaves • ½ Tsp black pepper • 1-2 Tsps hot pepper sauce (to taste) • ¼ cup white vinegar • 1 Tbsp sugar • ¼ cup water • 1 medium hot pepper, halved • 1 pound large, unpeeled shrimp or prawns
Preparation • Wash and de-vein the shrimp and slide them onto barbecuing skewers. • If using wooden skewers soak them in cold water an hour beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill. • Once assembled, slather shrimp with the sauce and lay them on the barbecue. They should take no more than a couple minutes per side to cook through – you will know they’re done when the white meat and translucent shell turns a vibrant pink.
Source: www.professionalpalate.com
Want More? For more great recipes and summer barbecue ideas visit
www.tastespotting.com.
45
• summer life lessons for kids • cool mamas
Kids
Sensations
10
Things
to Teach
Your Kids This Summer
By Jacqueline Bodnar
As the school year winds down, parents across Qatar face the ultimate question of what to do with their kids all summer. Some will go to camps, others will race for the remote control and still more will walk around, bored, asking their parents what they can do. Here are 10 things you can teach your kids this summer through fun and interesting activities.
1.
Gardening: Get the kids involved in a garden, regardless of its size, what’s being grown, or whether it’s in the ground or in containers. Gardening helps teach them about food, responsibility and co-operation, enabling them to engage in a living science lesson. They are also more willing to eat their veggies if they’ve helped to grow them.
2.
Responsibility: Let’s face it, many children feel that summer is a time to goof off and do a whole lot of nothing. But there’s no reason you can’t teach some responsibility. Make a duty list that each child will follow throughout the summer, such as simple chores they are expected to complete each day. They may moan and groan, but this still leaves plenty of time for fun.
3.
Economics: Take the time to teach your kids about earning money and the value of a riyal. These are skills that can last them a lifetime. Find tasks to help them earn small allowances each week. Or, if they are of age, let them earn money by working for others. There are always elderly people that need assistance taking out trash, dog walking, etc. And, once your kids earn the money, teach them about the importance of saving some.
4.
Survival: Kids today are overloaded with modern conveniences to the point that, if the electricity goes out in a storm, they are completely lost and bored. Teach them some lessons about survival without modern conveniences by taking the family camping in the desert. It’s a great time to bond and explore. Be sure to leave the electronics behind. 48
5.
Charity: Teaching your children to care about others keeps them from thinking the world revolves around them. It helps teach them to care about those in their community and their world. Try to set up a family date to help a charity group. Doing volunteer work at an animal shelter or senior centre is a great way to teach your kids about giving. Alternatively, you can teach them to donate goods they no longer want to charity.
6.
Appreciation: Most of us rush through life today at such speed we overlook much of the natural beauty that surrounds us. Plan something each week, throughout the summer, that let’s you really stop and smell the flowers. Go on a day-trip, have a picnic in the park, hit the beach etc. These events are great opportunities to teach children about what you see, hear, smell and touch all along the way.
9.
Sportsmanship: This summer, kids across the country will participate in sports, whether on organized teams or at a local park. It’s a great time to teach them about the importance of sportsmanship. Remember: it’s about how they play the game and giving it their best effort. As parents, we sometimes need reminding that if two teams play a game of football, there must be one team that loses. It’s not the end of the world; it just means that, next time, you play harder and that you give congratulations to the winning team.
10.
7.
Family: Sure, families may live under the same roof, but hectic schedules often leave them with little time to spend together. This summer, set aside a time each week for backyard family games. Get some games that kids of all ages can participate in, like building a fort, playing croquet, Frisbee, bean-bag toss, tetherball, water-balloon toss, badminton, etc. These fun times will be remembered and cherished by the kids for years to come.
HISTORY Qatar is rich in vibrant history and is home to some of the most unique archaeological forts and cultural sites in the region – not to mention access to world-class museums. Even though school’s out the learning shouldn’t stop. Cultural exploration can help children cultivate an interest in their surroundings, allowing them to discover a sense of place and pride in their heritage. Learning about history can be a crucial springboard for kids, as they learn to understand and appreciate cultural diversity and base their interactions with others on how they see themselves and their place in a larger world. So get out there and explore!
8.
Harmony: Many kids today are getting involved in yoga. Getting your kids involved this summer will give them a way to cope with stress and re-energize. This is another skill that will stay with them long after summer is gone.
49
Mamas
Mid-Summer
Dealing with Qatar’s summer heat is challenging enough at the best of times, but when you’re pregnant, it’s even trickier. Victoria Scott has some ideas to help you keep your cool.
Drink lots of water:
We all need to focus on staying hydrated during the summer, but for pregnant women, it’s even more important. Plenty of liquids will help reduce swelling in your hands and feet, which can be a problem towards the end of your pregnancy. Although water is best, you can make your drinks more interesting by adding fruit juice or squash, but stay away from caffeine, which can dehydrate you, exactly the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve.
Wear loose fitting clothes:
Your pregnancy hormones will be making you sweat more (lovely!) and there’s nothing worse than clothes sticking to you in the humid summer heat. So, choose breathable fabrics like cotton and make sure they skim you rather than cling. Try to avoid dark colours, as these absorb the heat more and if you need to, buy maternity clothes a size bigger than usual to ensure they are loose enough. Make sure your maternity undergarments are also made from cotton and not too tight. Comfort is king. 50
Change your routine:
The most bearable times of day during the summer are early morning and after sunset, so if you can limit your forays into the outside world to these times, do. If your lifestyle means you can’t, then at least ask friends and neighbours to help you with tiring tasks like supermarket shopping and school runs. Also consider turning on your car engine for a few minutes before you get in it to allow the air-conditioning to take effect and try to park in the shade wherever possible.
Ice Ice Baby:
If your feet have started to swell, put them in a bucket full of icy water. This should help reduce the swelling. You can also freeze a bottle of water and take it with you whenever you go out – it will melt quickly, providing you with a cold drink when you need it most. You can also press the bottle to your forehead or the back of your neck if you’re starting to feel too hot.
Take a (cool) bath:
It isn’t the sort of bath you want to dwell in, but it’s instantly cooling, perfect after a long day with too much heat exposure. The water coming out of the taps at this time of the year can be scorching, so run your bath well ahead of time and leave it to cool. Cool showers (with the water left running to cool down first!) are also a great way of cooling down quickly.
Cooling spritz:
Keep a spray bottle full of water with you wherever you go. It’ll help you feel cooler instantly. Another tip is to dust yourself with talcum powder every day. This should help you avoid uncomfortable sweat rash - after all, you have enough discomfort to be getting on with without something else to add to your list! 51
• summer life for kids
Kids Listings
Put your kids into their nicest outfits and dancing shoes, as there will be plenty of entertainment in Doha this summer. QH tells you where you can find the coolest summer camps in town for your children.
Summer Camp by
Oryx Rotana
Summer Camp by Regatta Sailing Academy
I
f a good summer camp is what you are seeking for your children this summer, then look no further - Doha has plenty to offer. The most well-renowned facilities in town will spare no effort in bringing your kids the best entertainment available. The fun will be endless, as activities and field trips will be taking place. 54
Cookie Decorating Class by
Carluccio’s Restaurant, The Pearl.
Summer Workshops by International Academy for Intercultural Development (IAID).
DATES: DAYS:
Enjoy a fantastic range of enriching classes spanning sic, dance, performance, art, mu ent pm elo dev fitness, youth and more. Ages, rates and timings vary. DATES: July 7 – 19 DAYS: Various
Summer s Workshonp al o by Internati r Academy fo l Intercultura nt Developme (IAID).
For more information call 44432-0974 or email enquire@iaidonline.org.
Summer Workshops by International Academy for Intercultural Development (IAID).
DATES: DAYS: DATES: DAYS:
55
August Summer KIDS LISTINGS
SUMMER SCHOOL Petit Pas Nursery
June 3-August 30: From 2–4 years. A summer of tremendous artistic, culinary, educational, cultural and sporty activities will open children up to a sense of creativity, experimentation and decision-making. For more information contact 4483-4250 or visit www.petitpasqatar.com.
Little Butterflies Nursery
June 10-July 26: Split into 7 sessions, each of 4 days. For ages 1–4 years. Activities include indoor and outdoor fun and games, arts and crafts, water-play, play-dough, cooking and pizza-making, singing and dancing. From 7:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4412-5187 or visit the Little Butterflies Nursery Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LittleButterfliesNursery.
Koala Nursery
July 1-August 20: Open for Summer Oasis for children up to 4 years of age. For more information call 4491-8811 or 5589-5066 or visit www.koalanursery.com.qa.
Bambinos Daycare
June 20-August 20: From ages 1–4 years. Activities such as arts and crafts, music, ceramics, cooking, sandplay, fire station, gardening, basic photography, eating protocol and much more! From 8:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4444-1020 or 7770-7666 or visit www.bambinosqatar.com.
Tiny Town Nursery
July 1-August 16: near Landmark Mall. From 6 months to 4 years welcome. Activities to suit all of these ages. Exclusive ‘Monkeynastic’ program. Flexible hours and rates. All staff hold First Aid and Child CPR Certificates. From 7:00 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. Why not register for September too? For more information call 6602-8092/4483-4553 or email info@tinytown.com.qa or visit www.tinytown.com.qa. 56
Central English Speaking Kindergarten (CESK)
July 1-August 16: 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. Sunday to Thursday. QR 650 per week. Ages: 18 months - 4 years. Activities include arts and crafts, cooking, music and movement, I.T. and water-play. For further information email info@ceskonline.com or call 4413-5675.
Acorn Nursery
July 1-August 16: From ages 18 months – 4 years. A weekly theme that involves arts and crafts, music, cooking, water-play and lots more. From 7:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. For more information call 4447-8333 or visit www.acornqatar.com.
Calgary International Preschool
July 1-August 16: From ages 1 – 4 years. From 7:00 a.m. till 1:30 p.m. For more information call 4416-1760 or visit www.cips-qatar.com.
Creative Child Nursery
July 1-August 16: From ages 1–4 years. The Healthy Lifestyle Summer Camp includes activities such as dramatic play, arts and crafts, water-play and cooking classes. It provides parents with an introductory conference, recipes, book clubs and lots more. From 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. For more information call 4479-5916 or 4411-7829 or visit www.creativechilddoha.com.
Happy Faces Nursery.
July 1-August 16: For ages 2–4 years. Activities include arts and crafts, kitchen fun, planting, music and movement, films and Quran memorizing (optional for Muslims). From 7:00am till 2:00pm. (Ramadan timings-8:00am till 1:00pm) For more information contact 4466-6178 or visit www.happy-faces-nursery.com.
Starfish Lane Kids Nurseries
July 1-August 16: From 1 – 4 year olds. Activities available include arts and crafts, dance classes, cooking classes, beach parties and much more. For more information contact 4411-0355 for Al Jelaiah or 5553-9798 for Al Mamoura or visit www.starfishlanekids.com.
dance, soccer and much more! Koala Nursery has a spacious outdoor playground and an indoor soft toy play area for when it gets hot. From 7:00 a.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information call 4491-8811 or visit www.koalanursery.com.qa.
Giggles Daycare
July 1-August 16: Split into two sessions running from July 1 and August 1 – 16. For ages 1–4 years. Weekly themed activities include arts and crafts, music, cooking, field trips, science projects and games. From 7:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m. (during Ramadan – 7:30 a.m. till 2:30 p.m.) For more information call 4460-2713 or 5589-1004 or visit www.littleacademy.qa.
July 1 – September 1 (Excluding Eid Holiday): From ages 1–4 years. The themes for the camp will be ‘Going to the Circus’ and ‘Camping’. Activities include, but are not limited to, cooking classes, painting, sand and water-play, tots gym classes, arts and crafts and a lot of other exciting activities. From 6:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. (shorter hours during Ramadan). For more information contact 4480-4447 or visit www.my-giggles.com.
Little Cherubs
Apple Tree Nursery.
Little Academy
July 1-August 16: For ages 2–4 years. Activities include dancing, cooking, arts and crafts, swimming, singing, drama and much more! From 8;00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. For more information call 4411-3803 or visit www. littlecherubsqatar.com.
July 3 – August 23 (closed August 19): From ages 2–4 years. Activities include drama/acting, learning zone, cooking, dance and much more. From 8:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. For more information call 4481-2147 or visit www.appletreedoha.com.
Fairy Tales Nursery
July 1-End of Ramadan: For ages up to 4 years. Twice a week swimming, cooking, arts and crafts, ceramics, painting, sand and water play, dancing and many more fun-filled activities. From 6:45 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. (Ramadan timings 7:30 a.m. till 2:30 p.m.) For more information call 4417-8880 or visit www.fairytalesdoha.com.
Fun First Nursery
July 1-July 19: Split into three sessions running from July 1-5, July 8–12, July 15-19. From ages 1–4 years. Activities include baking, arts and crafts, swimming and field trips. From 7:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4411-0953 or visit www.funfirstnursery.com.
Future Nursery
July 1–August 7: For ages 2 months – 4 years. Activities offered include arts and crafts, cooking, music and much more! From 6:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m. For more information call 4450-1264.
Juniors Nursery
July 1-August 30: For ages 4 weeks – 4 years old. Plenty of space, equipment and a covered outdoor area for children to enjoy. From 6:00 a.m. till either 4:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. For more information call 4452-4382 or visit www.juniorsnursery.com.
Koala Nursery
July 1-August 30: For ages 6 months – 4 years. Activities include painting and pottery lessons, rhythmic
FOOD Eid Buffet Just For Kids
During Eid: Sharq Village & Spa. Children will love the Eid kid’s buffet at Al Sonbok. All their favourite dishes are here and there’s face painting too! QR 150 per child under 12 and free for kids under 6 years. For more information call 4425-6666 or email rc.dohsq.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.
Children’s Menu
Summer: Johnny Rockets. Cheeseburger Mania! Buy selected burgers and get fries for free. Kid’s meal comes with ‘Loot Bag’ containing crayons, drawing activities and sailor hat. For more information contact 4455-2792. 57
Friday Brunch
Summer: Restaurant Gallery, Marriott. Children’s play-room open during Friday brunch, including face painting. Ages 6 and below go free, 6–12 go half price, 12+ full price.
WEEKLY Little Builders Playgroup
Sundays: Come join us for a new playgroup from 10:30 a.m. where each week the focus will be on a range of building and construction activities such as mega blocks, gears, snap and pop toys plus giant foam blocks and wooden blocks. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
All Ages Playgroup
Sundays: Abu Hamour area. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. for a play indoors or outdoors. Bring bikes! For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
up and lots more toys! Every session finishes with a fun sing-along with musical instruments. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Bubbles Playgroup
Mondays: Fun City play area, City Center Mall. Doha Mums would like to invite 2010 bubs for some fun playtime from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. It’s a perfect opportunity to make ‘first friends’ for our little ones and for mums to chat. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Children’s Library
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: The American Community School. Explore the world of literature with your kids. The library will be open three days a week and you can come and read, browse, borrow and return books. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.
2010 Babies Group
Sundays: Abu Hamour area. Calling all babies born in 2010. From 1:00 p.m. till 3:00 p.m. for a catch-up and coffee. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
2008 Toddler Playgroup
Every second Sunday: Al Khor. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For a play and chat with Doha Mums members based in the Al Khor community. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Morning Playgroup for Kids Born in 2009
Sundays: Abu Hamour area. Inviting all mums of 2009 toddlers to come and join in for a play, coffee and snacks every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Intercontinental Hotel Pool Sessions
Mondays: From 9:30 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. The little ones will enjoy the shaded pool and the older kids can explore Doha’s longest private beach. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Al Wakra Playgroup
Mondays: Al Wakra, easy to reach from Mesaieed and the airport. All ages playgroup from babies to toddlers. From 9:00 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. A great range of activities including artwork, tea set, puzzles, ride-ons, dressing 58
Songs & Stories Playgroup
Tuesdays: Al Waab area. From 9:00 a.m. till 10:00 a.m. For a music and movement play group, sing favourite and familiar children’s songs in English with the kids (adult participation requested). A short story time will also be part of the playgroup. Musical instruments provided. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.
2010 Play Date
Tuesdays: Al Wadi 3 Compound, Gharaffa area. Calling all children born in 2010 join for a play date from 4:00 p.m. till 5:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.
Summertime Toddler Playgroup
Tuesdays: Beverly Hills Tower. 2010 toddlers join in some indoor fun from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. Go for coffee and a chat while the little ones play. RSVP is essential. For more information visit www.dohamums.com.
sentences in Arabic. From 3:30 p.m. till 4:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Giggles Nursery Playgroup
Saturdays: Giggles Nursery in Al Gharaffa area. Join in for some fun from 10:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. Dads, grandparents and children of all ages are welcome. The nursery has a good soft play area as well as a fully-shaded, grassy garden with a fleet of cars ready to race. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Rays Reef Fun Time
Tuesdays and Sundays: Royal Plaza on the 2nd floor. From 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday and from 4:00 p.m. on Sundays. It’s a fun and clean area with lots of options for your kid(s) to choose from. Suitable for different age groups. RSVP is required. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Parachute Play
Wednesdays: Al Waab area. From 10:00 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. Parachute play is a positive co-operative group activity which can be used for different games for ages 18 months - 6 years and is both educational and fun. It is non-competitive play and teaches agility, body movements, co-ordination and teamwork. Tea and coffee plus snacks will be available afterwards for the mums. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Swimming Lessons
Wednesdays – Mondays: Mövenpick Tower and Suites. Lessons for all ages. Book 10 sessions and receive two for free. Children QR 900. Advanced booking is required. For more information call 4496-6410.
All Ages Pearl Beach Play Group
Thursdays: The beach on the Pearl at Tower 31. From 4:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. You must RSVP in advance as they have to alert security of names of non-residents prior to the playgroup. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Fun City Toddler Group
Thursdays: Fun City, City Center Mall. Indoor play fun from 10:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. A suitable play area for tots up to the age of 5. The toys are fabulous and it’s a great child-friendly environment. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Kids Arabic Reading Group
Saturdays: Doha Mums Library at ACS. This group is suitable for kids who can read and understand simple
Little Academy Soft Playgroup
Saturdays: Little Academy Nursery (previously named Little Angels) in Al Mamoura. From 9:30 a.m. till 11:00 a.m. Soft play area is fabulous. For more information visit www.dohamums.com or email events@dohamums.com.
Kids Yoga
Saturdays: Yama Yoga Studios. For ages 4-8 years. QR 45 for kids only and QR 35 for kids who have parents joining the simultaneous 9:30 a.m. Vinyasa yoga class. For more information visit www.yamayogastudios.com or call 6617-5802.
DAILY Live Chocolate Making at Criollo
Daily: InterContinental Doha The City. Criollo boutique luxury chocolatier, where all chocolates are hand-made on-site. Live chocolate-making from 9:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. Open from 6:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. For more information call 4015-8888 or email doharestaurants@ihg.com. 59
ACTIVITIES & CLUBS Bowling
The Qatar Bowling Center 4432-9178 or www.qatarbowlingcenter.net Strike Bowling Alley (City Center) 4483-9162
Golf
The Doha Golf Club 4496-0777 or www.dohagolfclub.com
Horse Riding
Al Khor Riding Center 4421-8857 Al Samariya Stables 5525-7203 or qatarracing@gmail.com Al Shaqab Riding Academy 4454-6236 or www.alshaqab.com
Ice-Skating
Winter Wonderland (City Center Mall) 4483-9162
Sailing
Doha Sailing Club 4443-9840 or www.qmsf.com Regatta Sailing Academy 4442-4577 or www.regattasailingacademy.com Royal Yachting Association Courses www.ryacourses-qatar.com
Swimming
Aspire Academy for Sporting Excellence 4413-6219 or www.aspire.qa Qatar Aqua Park 4490-5872
Tennis & Squash
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex 4440-9666 60
HOTEL SPECIAL OFFER Summer Promotion
InterContinental Doha The City: Ensuring a relaxing break and beneficial for all, this includes features for children where those under the age of 12 stay for free and receive complimentary meals throughout, as well as a Kids Club card that provides access to hotel amenities. Hotel guests receive QR 300 worth of vouchers valid for restaurants Prime, Nai and The Square, as well as Criollo Chocolatier. The summer offer can also be extended throughout the Holy month of Ramadan. Guests who visit restaurants at the new InterContinental Doha The City before Ramadan receive 50% of the bill back in vouchers that can be expended for Iftar dining. For more information call 4015-8888.
Special Promotions
Special Promotion
at Mövenpick Hotel Doha New ‘Power Bites’ menu launched in over 30 hotels across the Middle East and Asia including the Mövenpick Hotel Doha located on Corniche road. In the kitchens of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts strange and wonderful things are happening. A tiny farm girl is raking spaghetti from a tube; a small bear is peeking from a mug; a mini hard-hat workman is installing tomato into a burger and a little girl is struggling to keep the monkeys away from the cake pops. Monkeys, workmen, farm girls and little bears? In a kitchen? Just what’s going on? “We’re having fun launching our new children’s menu,” laughs Peter Drescher Vice President of Food & Beverage, Middle East and Asia. “These days children have constant sources of entertainment in the form of iPads, phones and games. So, we have to be equally entertaining with our food.” But of course, like all great fun, the new children’s ‘Power Bites’ menu has a serious point. “Childhood obesity and heart disease are modern concerns so all our ingredients are low fat, use low sodium salt and lean meat. We use lots of fruit and vegetables and don’t use saturated fats.” And the results are wonderful. Scuba toys prepare to dive into a bowl of mixed fruit; monkeys race up leaves to fresh banana smoothies; a workman examines tomato sauce for organic sausages; a mini shopping trolley 62
carries rice cakes and a tomato-headed millipede crawls across a plate on cucumber feet. “Food should be fun and if it’s nutritious so much the better,” says Drescher. “We invite children to eat with their fingers, paint carrots and arrange little characters. It’s important that restaurants become welcoming places for children and that they enjoy themselves. After all, families go out to eat to have fun. We’re just here to help.” The ‘Power Bites’ menu is available now at selected restaurants within Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts across the Middle East and Asia. In addition, to celebrate the launch of the menu, a special Power Bites offer is available for families staying at the participating hotels. For further information visit www.moevenpick-hotels.com
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Special Promotion
Nando’s Qatar, one of the nation’s best-loved family restaurants have announced the opening of a new outlet at Al Emadi Financial Square on C-Ring Road here in Doha. This new restaurant marks the 5th addition to the Nando’s chain in Qatar. Oryx Group for Food Services reiterated that the opening of the outlet is all the more significant since it is the first Nando’s restaurant in Qatar to roll out the chain’s new generation design. Adding further uniqueness to the new restaurant at Financial Square is their centrally placed, new show kitchen concept. Situated at the restaurants core the show kitchen offers Nando’s customers an entertaining seating arrangement where they can watch their flame grilled chicken being made to order in the midst of the tantalizing aromas of ‘Peri-Peri’; a feature that endears the Nando’s brand to its fans. Commenting on the opening of the latest Nando’s branch Francois Rousseau, General Manager of Oryx Group for Food Services said “We are immensely proud 64
of adding another restaurant to our chain of restaurants in Qatar. With this restaurant, Nando’s has once again delivered on our long-standing commitment to be a brand that is authentic and places our customers first. Our focus for this restaurant has been to embrace an eclectic platform that brings people together while reflecting our cultural identity and background as an African-Portuguese restaurant. Because it is our joy to not just offer a delectable experience to our customers but also a memorable one, we have concentrated on our interior décor. We have made use of a lot of earthy colours, natural wood, fabrics and traditional African artifacts. We are a very family-friendly restaurant and insist on providing an atmosphere that is inviting and warm so that all members of the family can feel comfortable enough to roll up their sleeves and eat with their hands.”
On display at the new restaurant are original bespoke paintings selected from an art gallery in South Africa, upholding Nando’s commitment to be a socially responsible brand as the art gallery works with underprivileged artists with an aim of creating a form of income for them while celebrating the beauty of African Art. Nando’s is committed to proving, with every expansion the brand, that it does not deliver mass-produced
products, be it in its design or food preparation process. Having the kitchen up-front and in view of the customers assures customers visiting the new outlet that their meal is being freshly prepared to their preferences and satisfaction in the most hygienic environment for all the family to enjoy. 65
Virgin Recommends: kids Edition
VIRGIN RECOMMENDS
QH brings you the top picks from every corner of Virgin Megastore. Look out for the QH heart in stores! AMAZING SPIDERMAN, PS3
The Amazing Spider-Man is a gaming pre-emptor to the upcoming movie of the same name. Divided into two types of gameplay - outside and indoor - it puts you in Spidie’s world on the vast island of Manhattan. Web swinging around and completing side-missions, interspersed with the occasional boss fight is the aim. The web swinging being the highlight, this game is fun, simple and exhilarating gameplay.
DR SEUSS THE LORAX, Universal Pictures A 12-year-old boy searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. But, in order to find it, he must discover the story of the Lorax who is a grumpy yet charming creature fighting to protect his world.
Bieber’s second album is notably glitzier than his first and sees him gliding over the borders of pop adolescence into becoming an artist on his own terms. With hits-a-plenty, it showcases his impressive tones and innate charisma across many styles. Sure to propel Bieber to new heights in his career this outing exceeds all expectations for a greater range of ages.
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ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS CHIPWRECKED, 20th Century Fox
DORA THE EXPLORER ACTIVITY FUN PACK, Nickelodeon
Firm favourite Dora offers up this boredom-busting, ideal for summer, Activity Fun Pack. Perfect for taking with you on-the-go, this cute pack is busting with colour and creativity. Each Activity Fun Pack includes: colouring pad, reusable stickers and five colouring pencils.
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BELIEVE, JUSTIN BIEBER, Island Records
When the loveable, cheeky and playful Chipmunks and Chipettes mess around aboard a cruise ship, the adventure truly begins when they accidentally end up overboard and marooned on a tropical paradise. At first they think they are all alone, but very soon discover their new turf is not as deserted as it seems!