Expat Parent September 2020

FAMILY | DINING | HOME | EDUCATION

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the really useful magazine hongkongliving.com

September 2020

Kids in the kitchen

WORK IT BABY

Exercising with kids

Culinary lessons for little ones

The

future

of education

Experts share their advice on remote and online learning

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CONTENTS — 0 9/ 2 0

20

Cover Story The future of education

2 EDITOR’S LETTER

Hello from the hot desk

10 THINGS TO KNOW

Zoom, the online video platform

13 ME & MY BIG IDEA

4 CONTRIBUTORS

6 PLANNER

15 OUTDOORS

8 NEWS

18 MUST HAVES

Meet this month’s team

Events to look forward to this September

Your monthly local news roundup

Meet Joyce Lau the momtrepreneur and founder of Naked Lab

Keeping tots and tweens active during lockdown

Stay home with these cozy night in essentials

25 DINING

Child-friendly recipes with Selina Kong. Plus nibbles

30 EDUCATION

Explore the French kindergarten and preschool, Petit Lascar

36 RUGRAT RAMBLINGS

Diary of an expat baby in quarantine

8

23 18

13

30

10

27 “The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn …and change.” - Carl Rogers

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editor’s Letter

who’s in charge?

As we enter our ninth month of school closures in the physical sense, we catch up with teachers, parents, kids, counsellors and tech experts to find out how our community is adapting to the online education model. Take a look at the future of education in Hong Kong (page 20) from the individual perspectives of those on the ground - spoiler alert the kids miss the teachers, the teachers miss the kids and the parents are exhausted.

After months cooped up inside, there is a resounding need to let off steam. Hong Kong fitness experts share home workouts for kids (page 15) and Selina Kong of The Big Things spills some family-friendly dishes (page 25).

Autumn is waiting in the wings.

See you next month.

Editorial editorial@hongkongliving.com Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater

Editor Gemma Shaw

Digital Editor Apple Lee

Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng

Design vicky@hongkongliving.com Graphic Designer Vicky Lam

Graphic Designer Yankee Tsang

Sales & Marketing talk@hongkongliving.com Director of Content Hilda Chan

Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui

Partnership Manager Chrissie Ip

Partnership Manager Elaine Li

Publisher

Editor’s picks

Matt Eaton matt@hongkongliving.com

Founding Director Tom Hilditch tom@hongkongliving.com

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772

Nappy Change Clutch

This is by far the best product I’ve come across since becoming a mum.

In 2019, Hong Kong expat mums Jess and Julie created this super stylish vegan leather nappy change clutch after seeing a gap in the market for something practical and stylish. benandelliebaby.com

Staycays are the new vacays Congratulations to The Upper House for recently being awarded sixth best in the world by Tripadvisor.

Take advantage of their ‘24-hours at our house’ offer which runs until the end of this month and includes a complimentary breakfast at Café Gray Deluxe. upperhouse.com

Covid-19 update As Expat Parent goes to print we have done our best to keep our content as accurate and timely as possible, but if Covid-19 has taught us anything it’s that life is nothing if not unpredictable.

Check with local businesses for the most up to date operation hours and services and above all, stay safe.

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Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Expat Parent is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Expat Parent cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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contributors Thank you to our contributors

Becky Love Expat mummy Becky recently spent two weeks in quarantine with one-year-old Lewis. Find out how they survived in her monthly backpage column.

Felix Beck Hair stylist and founder of Blonde Boudoir Hong Kong Felix came up with our kids’ fitness story idea in our HK kids section after listening to the frustrations of his clients.

Joyce Lau Momtrepreneur and founder of organic bedding brand Naked Lab on how to create a brand and stay motivated when things get tough in her interview for me & my big idea.

Kevin Fields Counsellor of the Hong Kong International School, Kevin shares his thoughts on the impact of online teaching on students’ emotional and mental health in our cover story.

Selina Kong Founder of The Big Things loves cooking healthy and delicious food with her daughters Scarlett and Kayla. She shares her favourite recipes to make with the whole family in our dining section.

Peter Andrews Education expert Peter shares the advantages of virtual teaching and how we can maximise the effectiveness of remote learning in this month’s cover story.

Want to write for Expat Parent? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 4 | EXPAT PARENT

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what’s on

SEP 26

Kung Hai Lecture Theatre 3-4, G/F, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong. hksaneuroscience.org

Spartan Kids Race The city’s first stand-alone Spartan Kids Race will have children aged four to 13 take part in both open and competitive races in a unique obstacle course. 8am-6pm. $420. Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central. tickets-hk.spartan.com

SEP 12

Hong Kong Student Association of Neuroscience 1st Annual Conference 2020

SEP 13

Treasure Island Summer Surf Party Kick off the end of the summer season with beach games, face painting, surf lessons and more, with a delicious lunchtime BBQ buffet. 10am-5pm. Adults $250, children $125.

Treasure Island Beach Club, Pui O Beach, Lantau. treasureislandhk.com

Founded in 2020, HKSAN aims to connect and inspire Hong Kong students on the advancement and popularisation of neuroscience. 8am-5:30pm. $150. Cheung

SEP 1

Bobby’s Rabble Quiz Night Known for being “the pub quiz for people that don’t like pub quizzes”, Bobby’s Rabble Quiz Night has something for everyone. While restrictions are in place, the quiz will be held on Zoom. 8-10pm. $100 per person. Bobby’s Rabble, 46 Wyndham Street, Central.

SEP 11

Virginia Overton exhibition at White Cube

SEP 13

In her first solo exhibition in Asia, the New York artist makes use of objects she encounters in a range of environments from agricultural to industrial, her practice is driven by what she has described as a natural push and pull inherent in materials. 11am–7pm. Free. G/F, 50, Connaught Road, Central. whitecube.com

Hong Kong Spartan Trail 2020 brings a new challenge to the table for the city’s trail and adventure runners. Run 10k and half marathons races in open or elite categories. 8am-6pm. $400. Lam Tsuen, Heung Kung Sho Road, Tai Po. tickets-hk.spartan.com

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Spartan Trail

what’s on

SEP 26

99 Bottles turns three The popular Peel Street bar will be giving away 999 bottles for free, so turn up early and grab a drink. 4pm. Free. 99 Bottles, 59A Peel Street, Soho, Central.

SEP 15

Love & Bananas An Elephant Story Earth.Org and The Hive film screenings are back with a gut-wrenching yet optimistic film about an elephant rescue in Thailand.

6:30-8:30pm. Free for Hive members.

Online via Zoom. thehive.com.hk

SEP 30

SEP 24

Hong Kong as F*ck: A Comedy Panel Game Show Test how Hong Kong you really are with this live panel game show and win amazing prizes.

8:30-10:30pm. $150. The Riff HK, 8/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street, Central. theriff.hk

Momentai Charity Quiz Test your knowledge and support local charity Sai Kung Stray Friends. A maximum of six people per team. 7-10pm. $100 per person, entrance fee donated to charity.

Kiosk 1 Waterfront, Wai Man Road, Sai Kung.

Gemma’s Diary

Surf’s up

Keep on running

With any luck, social distancing rules will be relaxed in time to kick back and relax at the Treasure Island Summer Surf Party. The little ones will be entertained with beach games, face painting and surf lessons, while my husband and I look forward to the BBQ buffet. Treasure Island Summer Surf Party: September 13, 10am-5pm. Adults $250, children $125. Treasure Island Beach Club, Pui O Beach, Lantau. treasureislandhk.com

It’s Spartan time. After months of gym closures and comfort eating, Hong Kong Spartan Trail 2020 offers a welcome challenge. Entries in half marathon and 10k races in open or elite categories open. Spartan Trail: September 13, 8am-6pm. $400. Lam Tsuen, Heung Kung Sho Road, Tai Po. tickets-hk. spartan.com

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news

BABY NEWS Bathroom essentials for daily life There is a list of to-dos when prepping for your baby’s arrival and shopping for all the essentials is one of them. To help your baby grow and keep them safe, you’ll need a few pieces of handy equipment for the bathroom. Here are a few daily items that will help your little one establish a sense of routine.

Free Office 365 education As coronavirus takes full strike, social distancing has changed face-toface lessons into screen-to-screen virtual classes. To help learners and educators better embrace remote learning, Microsoft Hong Kong has launched a “Learn Anywhere Remote Teaching” programme – available to schools for free. The initiative offers participating schools a complimentary set-up that allows students and teachers to access Office 365 Education.

Supporting all students from kindergartens to secondary schools, the programme aims to help build a safe, secure and collaborative learning environment. sway.office.com

Summer Infant Potty Train & Transition This 2-in-1 system looks and feels just like an adult toilet, making it the perfect tool for fast and effective potty training. As your baby grows, the removable potty topper can be placed onto an adult toilet for a smooth transition.

Bebble Toothpaste Strawberry With a subtle strawberry flavour, the low-abrasive and anti-caries ingredients of this baby toothpaste gently clean a baby’s first teeth. The paste can be used from a very young age.

Rotten Head festival postponed Family-friendly three day festival Rotten Head has decided to postpone its 2020 festival, which was supposed to go ahead this month, due to the increase in Covid-19 cases. The festival will now take place on April 16-18 next year. Tickets from the postponed festival will still be valid and will roll-over to the new dates. A statement released by organisers, Alan and Andrew stated: “We hope you understand the situation is out of our control and we will always put the health of the audience, performers and staff at the forefront. We can’t wait to see you in April and we hope you and your family stay safe.” rottenheadfest.com

3M ShowerFilter A shower filter helps wash away all the chemicals that are hiding in your shower water, making bath time safe for your baby. 3M’s filter will remove contaminants that may be harmful for your little one.

NotTooBig Mega Baby Expo Date: Oct 29 - Nov 1, 2020 (Thu-Sun) Time: Oct 29 - Oct 31, 2020 12noon-8pm Nov 1, 2020 11am-6pm Venue: Star Hall / Rotunda 2, 3/F, Kowloon Bay International Trade and Exhibition Centre Fee:

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$10 / person

Child-friendly masks In the wake of the global pandemic, Hong Kong brand The Wee Bean has redirected its manufacturing efforts, using its sustainable organic cotton fabric from the production of its bibs to create masks for young kids. Suitable for children aged two and a half year and above, each mask is made with hypoallergenic fabric and comes with adjustable earloops and a filter pocket. The Wee Bean currently has two designs available in its signature Dim Sum and Boba prints. Treat your kids to a new face covering and give back at the same time – for every mask sold, the brand will donate one to JLife

Foundation Limited, to distribute to children from low-income families in the city. theweebean.com

Kellett student raises $317,000 for local dog shelter Ansh Sahay, a student from Kellett school, has used his passion for animals to help Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation (SKSFF). The online campaign, Help our Stray Friends, raised

$317,000 in just 30 days and was a remarkable relief for the charity during this difficult year.

Since visiting the shelter on a school trip in 2016, Ansh has run numerous campaigns over

news

Wine & Dine Festival goes virtual

Originally set to take place at Central Harbourfront in October, the four-day Wine & Dine Festival will be switched to an online occasion that spans across several weeks. In lieu of the usual pop-up market format, this year’s festival will see a busy line-up of events including wine tasting, cooking classes with chefs, wine auctions and more – all happening online for the public to take part in. the years. As he ventures off to university this year, he wanted to give the charity a parting gift.

Chairman of Sai Kung Stray Friends, Narelle Pamuk said: “It’s always tough but it has been even tougher during these times in 2020, protests preventing us from our hawking selling on the streets and now the Covid virus has brought all fundraising events to a halt. It is so incredible that Ansh has rescued SKSFF for the second time.”

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THINGS TO KNOW

1

Zoom was founded in 2011 by Eric Yuan.

2 4 5

Many Hong Kong international schools and universities use Zoom to conduct their online classes.

Yuan’s idea for Zoom came from his hatred of travelling. He was in a long distance relationship and wanted to see his girlfriend without having to travel. The couple are now married.

Before 2020, Zoom was mainly used amongst businesses for conference calls to those overseas. But it has recently caught the world’s attention during the lockdown period.

The video communication service is headquartered in San Jose, California.

Things you need to know Zoom Video Communications

6

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3

Zoom was named best video conferencing software by G2, the world’s largest tech marketplace in 2019 and 2020.

7

100 people can take part in a single zoom call, making it great for meetings and classes.

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me & my big idea

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me & my big idea

Naked Lab Nicole Slater meets Joyce Lau, momtrepreneur and founder the organic bedding brand Born and raised in Hong Kong, Lau founded Naked Lab in 2018 after discovering her daughter Pia had eczema. She went looking for organic bedding to help ease the irritation, but soon went on to create her own line of bamboo silk sheets and bedding sets.

Today the momtrepreneur spends her days juggling a new business and full time job all while taking care of her child at home.

“It can be very tricky and rewarding at the same time,” Lau says.

“As a mother, I understand how much care and time parents spend to give the best to their family. I knew the quality of the product was something that I couldn’t compromise. It was tough but when customers shared their experience with the products and how they helped with their skin or sleep problems, I felt overjoyed and fulfilled.”

Lau credits her husband for being her biggest inspiration, as an entrepreneur himself, he was able to share his mindset and help her overcome the obstacles, struggles and pain of starting a business.

“It is funny looking back at how I used to complain that all he talked about was ideas and the business, but now I am extremely grateful and happy to be able to share my entrepreneurial journey with him.”

By growing Naked Lab gradually, Lau has been able to keep her business growing despite uncertain times and an ongoing pandemic.

“Looking at how much has happened in the past year in Hong Kong, I am happy that I was able to quickly adapt my mindset to be more flexible and responsive. Taking little steps at a time instead of forcing big leaps for my business has mitigated a lot of unnecessary pressures and complications for myself,” she continues.

“Passion can trump expertise and will help you stay afloat during difficult times. If you believe in your idea, it will happen.”

When it comes to fellow momtrepreneur’s Lau believes it takes time for a business to be successful, baby or no baby.

“It’s important to keep that in mind

when you’re starting out. Don’t try to do everything at once. When you have an idea, you often get overly excited and get everything done at once. I think the key is to really do it step-by-step and to try to

balance the inside and outside of business.”

To find out more information about Joyce and her exciting business Naked Lab, visit nakedlab.me

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big day out

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WORK IT, BABY

outdoorS

Hong Kong trainers share their kids’ favourite workout routines With gyms closed, playgroups cancelled and social activity at an all time low, it’s no wonder that Hong Kong kids are struggling to burn excess energy. We look to two Hong Kong fitness fanatics and find out how they’re keeping their kids active during lockdown (and staying sane in the process).

ANDREA RAMÍREZ Owner & Head Trainer at AndFit HK @andfithk

Can you recommend some home exercise routines for kids?

Tell us about your family routine?

Peng Chau offers a relaxing laid back lifestyle. My son wakes around 8am. We have breakfast and set an intention for the day. An active morning is important so we’ll take a walk to the beach, or around the island and after lunch we’ll schedule a playdate. We have a small boat in Sai Kung and so weekends are all about adventures on the water, swimming and recharging with friends.

How do you keep your three-year-old active during lockdown?

I get Matteo involved in my own exercise routine. I’ll put a mat on the floor and start doing some simple movements. He can’t resist copying me. We also spend a lot of time playing together. I let him create a game and I’ll follow his lead. Matteo is a climber and likes risky stuff so instead of saying ‘no’, I engage with him so that he can do these activities safely.

HIIT and Tabata routines specifically for kids are a lot of fun and easy to do. Play some energising music and challenge the kids to a little fitness routine. For example, Matteo and I will run as fast as we can for 20 seconds and when music stops we will kiss or hug. Or take it outside, try going for a jog together and challenge the kids to find a special flower or leaf along the way.

What are the best pre and post workout snacks for kids?

Pre workout: Kids need an energy boost so carbohydrates are perfect. Try a healthy cookie, toast with honey or a granola bar. I strongly recommend homemade foods where possible to control sugar levels.

Post workout: After exercise, protein is important to help sustain energy levels.

Milk, yogurt, an organic shake, half a turkey sandwich, or peanut butter with crackers are all good options.

And post lockdown, what activities do you recommend?

Come to AndFit as a family and sweat together. Also, take advantage of Hong Kong’s fantastic hikes and parks. Play with your kids outdoors, go swimming, take them camping for the day. Outdoor activities benefit the whole family immensely. andfithk.com

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big day out

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outdoorS PARFAIT N’DONDA Founder of Guardian Fitness HK @guardianfitnesshk

N’Donda founded boutique fitness studio Guardian Fitness six years ago. His specialist team of professionals offer personal training, weight training, boxing, advice on nutrition and deep stretching. He lives with his wife, 12-year-old daughter Ines and two-year-old son Timoté.

What’s your morning routine?

The routine I want for my kids is a little different to the one they want. We begin by rehydrating with a big glass of water and a filling breakfast of eggs, bacon and cheese.

After breakfast, we encourage creative activities such as arts and crafts and then we’ll head out for a walk and run around. We avoid screen time, my youngest son has not (yet) been exposed to a smartphone or tablet – let’s see how long that lasts.

What home exercise routines for kids do you recommend?

Can you share some nutritional advice for active kids?

Our Guardian Fitness’ resident nutritionist recommends: •

•

Body weight exercise sessions kept fairly short to maintain focus work best. Parents can try out the below with their kids.

Warm up: • 10 jumping jacks • 10 reverse snow angels • 10 shoulders taps One minute break and repeat Follow with three rounds of the below with a 10 second rest in between: • 30 seconds of squats • 30 seconds of burpees (full body touches the floor and jump back up)

•

Guardian Fitness offers parent and child training sessions for those who need some supervision. guardianfitness.hk

Hydration is so important in Hong Kong.

For an alternative to sweet beverages such as sweet tea, soda or juice, try homemade flavoured water. It is healthy, cheap, easy and you can try many combinations to please the pickiest of kids. My personal favourite - let two strawberries and a slice of lemon diffuse in a litre of filtered water.

Pre workout: A small, easily digestible snack of carbs and protein is best.

Healthy options include a boiled egg and a small orange; a small banana or slice of watermelon with a couple slices of turkey ham or a portion of greek yogurt with a handful of berries.

Post workout: A snack within 30 minutes of finishing exercise replenishes energy stores and aids recovery. A whole food mix of carbs, proteins and fats with no added sugar is ideal. Try wholegrain crackers with hummus, a small apple or banana with nut butter, fruit and yogurt, some mixed nuts and seeds or an egg and avocado.

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MUST HAVES Velvet eye mask $156 from TONIC amara.com

Red wine glass set $720 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com

Tender is the night massage bar $110 from Lush lush.com

Chateau La Grave A Pomerol 2007 $500 from The Bottle Shop thebottleshop.hk

Cosy night in Netflix and chill in style with these home comforts. By Nicole Slater Goddess bath bomb $85 from Lush lush.com

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White natural Himalayan salt lamp $588 from Himalayan Magics himalayanmagics.com

Sublime Replenishing Night Masque $920 from Aesop aesop.com

Sara Miller zebra mug $199 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com

MUST HAVES

Piet I geo cushion cover $250 from Home Essentials homeessentials.com.hk

Swiss Miss marshmallow lover cocoa mix $28.5 from ParknShop parknshop.com

Gloria sofa $13,990 from Indigo Living indigo-living.com

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cover story

THE

FUTURE OF EDUCATION

Katrina Lau meets the people paving the way to a new era of learning Striving through social unrest and coronavirus, the past academic year has been both challenging and rewarding.

Tough times teach us the best lessons and 2020 has taught us the importance of

20 | EXPAT PARENT

resilience, adaptability and flexibility in the face of adversity. Having experienced remote working and learning, we’ve seen the value in face-to-face interactions and also delved into the possibilities of virtual connections.

Teachers, technology professionals, students and parents share their concerns and experiences adapting to this new era of learning.

cover story

A teaching perspective Kevin Fields, Counsellor from Hong Kong International School (HKIS) From attending real-time Zoom lectures to connecting with friends via online platforms, the increase in screen time is a growing concern for many parents. Kevin Fields counsellor HKIS, believes striking a balance and setting appropriate limits is crucial to get the best out of this technology.

“Under such unusual circumstances, what is considered normal needs to be adjusted and parents can help by making things more flexible,” he says.

As grown-ups, we may feel stressed by changes, the same goes for children.

They used to get home from school and enjoy leisure time, but social distancing turns their comfortable space into a studious environment.

Without being able to talk to their friends and have quality playtime, some may show signs of stress trying to adjust to the situation.

“Let your child be the teacher from time to time and engage in what engages them,” Fields says.

In April 2020, as the world was going through its worst wave of Covid-19, the UN’s Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organisation estimated that 91.3 percent of the world’s students were affected by school closures. Google wanted to help.

“Since the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak, Google has been looking at ways to better support remote teaching and reimagine the learning environment,” says

We are lucky to live in the time where we can maintain relationships and connect with others electronically. While social platforms facilitate kids in developing interpersonal relationships, it can also be overwhelming sometimes.

“Students and parents should take a break from the news sometimes. It’s great to be informed, being overly informed leaves little mental energy for other endeavours and can have a deleterious effect on overall mental health,” he says.

A technology perspective Leonie Valentine, Managing Director of Sales & Operations, Google Hong Kong Leonie Valentine, managing director of sales & operations at Google Hong Kong. Google found there are more than 140 million users for G Suite Education in June 2020. The free suite of tools boasts learning tools

designed for the classroom that fosters collaborative mindsets.

“Bringing attention to safer internet practices is more important than ever,” Leonie says.

Internet safety and proper usage of technology are common concerns when it comes to young kids. In light of the increase in young users, Google Hong Kong launched two programs focused on internet safety. Through its interactive program called Be Internet Awesome, kids can learn the fundamentals of digital citizenship and explore the online world confidently.

So what does this mean for the future of learning? Just as working from home is made possible, education can be taken under the roof and substitute lessons in classrooms. “While it may be too early to predict what the future holds, it’s clear that deeper integration of technology and digital learning could help make education more accessible and equitable long beyond Covid-19,” Valentine says.

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cover story A learning perspective As a high school student Esther, aged 17, returned to Hong Kong after her school closed in England. She spent two weeks in quarantine when she returned home and is now working remotely via online classes.

“I learn the best when I can interact with other students and have discussions and debates about certain topics with teachers,” Yeung says.

High school topics are more complex and abstract, pure chalk and talk via video conferences are not as effective as face-to-face classes. “I think people really want to get back to school and see their friends. It can get quite boring being at home by yourself. I really do want to get back.”

Winston Luk, aged 17, is also a high school student in the UK who returned to Hong Kong due to the pandemic. Like Yeung, Luk finds learning and studying from home to be quite the challenge.

“Trying to focus and do your own work is the worst part, I struggle to focus and there are too many distractions at home,” Luk says. The fast and widespreading coronavirus leaves no time for students and teachers to adapt to the innovative learning environment. Besides coping with sentiments of leaving school in a blink of an eye, Luk has to do Zoom lessons on UK time, which makes the process a lot harder.

Students Esther Yeung and Winston Luk

A parental perspective Mother of three Karen Ng With children aged 11, 16 and 19, Karen Ng can easily identify what challenges each age group faces while online learning.

For her youngest child, face-to-face lessons usually include interactive play and active learning.

“They find it hard to sit still for long periods of time, with no interaction the classes can seem a bit dull,” Karen says. Her oldest daughter, aged 16, has found subjects like maths challenging, as it requires repeated explanations and practice which is difficult to do online.

“With Zoom or Google Hangouts, the kids are nervous to ask questions,” she says.

When trying to complete worksheets and exercises, Ng noticed that her daughter didn’t quite grasp a full understanding of the concepts and believes a classroom setting is more interactive and discussion-provoking.

Social distancing also means kids are studying alone and not seeing their friends as much. “We have to think about what activities they can do, I still let them see their friends but not as frequently,” she says, adding it is important for parents to help their kids stay connected with peers.

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cover story Nurturing students in the age of virtual classrooms Founder and principal tutor of Young Philosophers, Peter Andrews shares some tips for making remote learning more effective.

Engage with students As with face-to-face lessons and engagement in virtual classrooms is crucial for effective learning.

Young learners’ chances of remaining focused are higher, for example, when lesson topics are intriguing yet relatable to their world experience.

Understand your students It is crucial for teachers to know learners well enough to tailor learning experiences. I welcome all new students in a one-to-one online session to understand more about them as people.

Knowing the students better helps me adjust the syllabus, teaching pace and lesson delivery to their needs.

Make use of technology Virtual teaching has its advantages. Use break-out groups on virtual platforms to divide students so that you can listen in to discussions more easily. Mixing in animations and visual stimulations, in combination with skilful questioning, is also a captivating means to integrate thought-provoking discussions.

Equip students with philosophical skills Living in this evolving world, it is positive to stay calm and think rationally. Through learning to think philosophically students can develop their capacity

for reasonable discussion which, in my opinion, is much needed today and always.

For more information visit youngphilosophers.net

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dining

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Dining

dining

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dining

Cooking with kids

Selina Kong shares her child-friendly recipes for the whole family to enjoy With the whole family spending more time at home and dining in more often, it can be tough to think of new meal ideas everyday.

To help you stay inspired, we’ve come up with four family-friendly recipes including two mains and two desserts that you can try at home. From the classic Spaghetti Bolognese to cute pastry puffs that look like cartoon animals, these dishes are easy enough that even your little ones can help out.

Subhead Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

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dining

Cooking with kids Selina Kong shares her child-friendly recipes for the whole family to enjoy With the whole family spending more time at home and dining in more often, it can be tough to think of new meal ideas every day.

To help you stay inspired, we’ve come up with four family-friendly recipes including two mains and two desserts that you can try at home. From the classic Spaghetti Bolognese to cute pastry puffs that look like cartoon animals, these dishes are easy enough that even your little ones can help out.

Ingredients 140g boneless chicken thigh 25g broccoli, 25g eggplant, sliced 10g shiitake mushroom 30g carrot, julienned 30g zucchini, sliced 50g purple cabbage, shredded Dashi, Saikyo miso,

Dough

20ml teriyaki sauce

250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour

Rice bran oil for cooking

3g (1 tsp) instant yeast

Chicken marinade:

25g (2 tbsp) sugar, 1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp Japanese soy sauce

1 egg, 125ml (1/2 cup) warm milk

1 tsp mirin, 1 tsp sake, 1 tsp honey

42g (3 tbsp) soft butter

Tamagoyaki:, 4 pcs egg

Filling

10ml Japanese soy sauce, 10ml mirin

1 cup desiccated coconut or freshly grated coconut, 1 egg, 5 tbsp sugar (you can adjust to your taste) 1/2 cup melted butter (desiccated coconut absorbs more liquid, so you may use less butter when using freshly grated coconut)

Topping 3 tbsp cake flour, sifted 3 tbsp powdered sugar, sifted 3 tbsp melted butter Sesame seeds (optional)

Making the dough 1. In a mixing bowl: add flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir.

2. Add egg and milk, mix; then soft butter, continue mixing.

3. Put dough on the counter with a little flour.

At first, the dough is sticky. Handle with light pressure. Knead until smooth. Cover until doubled its size.

Making the filling 1. In a medium bowl: add egg and sugar. Stir.

2. Add the coconut and melted butter. Mix until well combined, set aside.

Making the topping 1. In a small bowl, sift and add cake flour and powder sugar.

2. Add melted butter, stir until smooth. Put in a piping bag, set aside.

Shaping and baking 1. When the dough is ready, divide into 6 pieces.

Flatten the dough into an oval.

2. Fill with 1/6 part of the filling. Wrap the filling with the dough. Shape into an oval bun.

3. Put individually or 3 adjacent pieces. Cover 30 minutes.

4. Pipe the topping on the dough. Make 2 strips.

You can do this before or after egg wash.

5. Add egg wash with sesame seeds or coconut on top.

6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (for top-bottom heat) or 160°C (for fan mode).

7. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes.

8. After baking, brush with clear honey if you wish.

Method 1. Marinate chicken thigh overnight. Cook chicken over the grill until the internal temperature reaches 78C. Slice and top with teriyaki sauce when served.

2. Poach broccoli and zucchini in dashi separately, drain.

3. Pan-sear eggplant with rice bran oil till tender, then top with miso.

4. Braise shiitake mushroom in dashi till tender.

5. Toss purple cabbage slaw with salt and cure for 30 minutes. Rinse and drain.

6. Saute carrot with rice bran oil over high heat till slightly wilted, then top with miso 7. Whisk eggs with mirin and soy sauce, strain. In a tamagoyaki pan over mediumlow heat, oil the pan, ladle a thin layer of egg mixture into the pan and swirl to coat the pan. When the egg layer is set on the bottom but slightly liquid on top, roll it to the front edge of the pan. Repeat steps till a rectangle omelette is formed. Allow omelette to cool before slicing into pieces.

8. Put cooked Japanese rice on the bottom of the bento box, plate all vegetables, two pieces of tamagoyaki and chicken on top.

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dining

Ingredients Pasta dough: 120g 00 flour, 1 pc egg, ½ tsp salt

Bolognese sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, ½ pc onion, minced ½ pc carrot, grated, 3 cloves garlic 170g beef, minced, 170g pork, minced 1 cup whole milk, 2 cans whole tomatoes, 400g each Salt to taste

Method Making the pasta 1. Mix all ingredients in a stand mixer on medium speed until smooth, add more flour if necessary, about 8-10 minutes.

2. Wrap dough with plastic and rest for 30 minutes.

(Immediately after the dough is formed the gluten matrix remains very tough and difficult to work with, resting the dough allows the gluten strands to relax.)

3. After 30 minutes, divide dough into four. With the palm of your hand, flatten one piece of dough into ½ inch thickness or until it can pass through the pasta machine at the widest setting.

4. Pass dough 3 times through the machine at the widest setting. Adding more flour after each interval.

Make sure to align only in one direction.

5. Continue passing the dough at gradually thinner settings until the desired thickness has been reached.

Cooking pasta 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

2. Add pasta, stir gently with a wooden spoon, chopsticks, or a cooking fork, and cook until 3. noodles are just set with a definite bite, about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Drain, toss with sauce, and serve.

4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook on high heat until mixture has thickened and reaches 93C. 5. Add vanilla extract, allow custard to cool in mixing bowl until room temperature before storing in the fridge, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation on top.

Cream Puff Ingredients Choux pastry: 60g flour, 2 pcs egg, 50g unsalted butter 1g salt, 2g sugar, 100ml water

Pastry cream: 20g AP flour, 20g cornstarch, 3pcs egg yolk, 300ml milk, 50g sugar ¼ tsp salt, ½ tsp vanilla extract

Making Pastry Cream 1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk yolks, sugar, flour, cornstarch and salt together until fully combined.

2. In a small non-reactive saucepan, bring milk to a boil.

3. Slowly temper boiled milk into egg yolk mixture, drizzle in while continuously whisking to combine.

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Method Making the choux pastry 1. Preheat the oven at 200C. 2. Bring butter, water, sugar and salt to boil in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring once or twice. When mixture reaches full boil (butter should be fully melted), immediately remove saucepan from heat and stir in flour with heat proof spatula or wooden spoon until combined and mixture clears sides of pan.

Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, using smearing motion, for 3 minutes, until mixture is slightly shiny with wet-sand appearance and tiny beads of fat appear on the bottom of the saucepan.

3. Off heat, continue beating the mixture until it is no longer hot to the touch. Gradually incorporate beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon at a time, only continue incorporating when eggs have been fully absorbed.

4. Fill choux paste into a piping bag with round tip, pipe paste into 1 1/4- to 1 1/2-inch mounds on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1

Cooking the Bolognese Sauce 1. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat; add onion, carrot, and garlic and saute until softened but not browned, about 6 minutes.

2. Add minced meat and ½ teaspoon salt.

Crumble meat with the edge of a wooden spoon to break apart into tiny pieces. Cook to crumble meat until it loses its raw color but has not yet browned, about 3 minutes.

3. Add milk and bring to simmer until milk evaporates and only clear fat remains (10-15 minutes).

4. Add wine and bring to simmer until wine evaporates (10-15 minutes).

5. Add tomatoes and their juice and bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low, continues to simmer with an occasional bubble or two at the surface, until liquid has evaporated (about 3 hours).

6. Adjust seasonings with extra salt to taste and serve. (Can be refrigerated in an airtight container for several days or frozen for several months. Warm over low heat before serving).

to 1 1/4 inches apart. You should be able to fit about 24 mounds on the baking sheet.

5. Bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes, then turn the oven down to 180°C and continue baking for approximately 10 minutes or until the puffs have fully risen.

6. Pull the tray out of the oven, when puffs are cool enough to handle, cut 3/4-inch slit into the side of each puff to release steam. Allow them to cool completely.

Selina Kong is the founder of The Big Things and The Big Things Kitchen, an indoor children’s playground and restaurant located at The Mills, Tsuen Wan. Kong is a huge advocate for healthy eating and loves cooking with her two daughters Scarlett and Kayla in her spare time. thebigthings.com & thebigthingskitchen.com

Dining news Singaling’s new set lunch

dining NEWS

Do it yourself pasta Love Fratelli’s signature artisan pastas? Learn how to make them at home with its new Cook Your Own Pastas sets. With easy step-by-step instructions from head chef Pradip Malbul and fresh ingredients, you can practice your cooking skills and enjoy a delicious Italian meal from the comfort of your own home. Sets start at $160. fratelli.hk

The popular roadside restaurant Singalings is offering a new three-course set lunch menu from $138. Choose from a selection of appetisers from soups and salads to chicken

wings before tucking into a hearty main. Finish off your afternoon meal with a sweet treat or tea and coffee. The menu is available on weekdays throughout September.

Family fun with Amalfitana

Cheery for Churros Hong Kong has welcomed its first-ever contemporary churrería, Twist & Buckle in Tsim Sha Tsui. Founded by two best friends with roots in South America the churros shop serves fresh homemade churros, in a variety of flavours including crunchy matcha and hazel lah. Diners can also enjoy its chilled selection of churros and ice cream combinations.

Cookies come to IFC Artisan pizza bar Amalfitana is offering special delivery packages when you order via its direct delivery bikes (WhatsApp 6274 3932), Deliveroo or Food Panda. The Family Package feeds four and includes a tricolore

salad, dough balls, French fries, bufala mozzarella, margherita pizza, pepperoni pizza and a Nutella pizza along with two soft drinks and two Peroni’s for $650. amalfitana.hk

Homegrown dessert brand Baked Indulgence is opening a six-month long pop-up at IFC Mall this August. Founded in 2012, Baked Indulgence (formerly Top Indulgence) offers American-style cookies with a twist including Milk Tea, Yuen Yeung and Sakura. bakedindulgence.com

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EDUCATION

Les Petits Lascars The well-known French and International kindergarten expands in Hong Kong By Charmaine Ng Since 2006, Les Petits Lascars French International Kindergarten and Preschool has provided French, bilingual and trilingual education for children from nine months to six years old in Hong Kong. At the request of French parents in the city, the school was founded by qualified and decorated teachers Christian and Dominique Chasset, who also run the Hong Kong Institute of Languages and the Hong Kong Kids Academy. Today, Les Petits Lascars has grown to three locations across Hong Kong in Central, Southside and a newly opened campus in Tseung Kwan O.

Qualified education team Supported by the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong, the school is currently undergoing accreditation with the National

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Agency for French Teaching Abroad (AEFE).

The education team at Les Petits Lascars is led by a certified Principal of the French International Education System (AEFE) and is composed of qualified and experienced teachers and supervisory staff.

Parents can choose between three streams for their children: French, where classes are completely taught in French; bilingual, where classes are run half in French and half in English and trilingual, where Mandarin can be taught as an optional class.

Following the French National curriculum Les Petits Lascars believes in a caring environment centred around the well-being of the children. It takes on an educational approach that adapts to a child’s learning

EDUCATION pattern, uniqueness and individual learning needs. Currently, it offers five programmes, namely Éveil (Playgroup), Toute Petite Section (Nursery), Maternelle (K1 to K3), FLAM (Language Support) and a selection of Holiday Camps. Parents can enquire with the school anytime to see which course is best suited for their children.

Éveil (Playgroup) Optional for children nine to 24 months old, Éveil classes aim to help with social, emotional, cognitive and coordination development.

The school also offers Baby Gym classes for children to explore their motor skills and gradually learn to control their movements.

Toute Petite Section (Nursery) Les Petits Lascars follows the French National Education programme. In TPS, rituals are introduced to children of two to three years old. Days are split into five protocols – circle time (welcome), snack time, motor skills and recreation- for the development of socialisation.

FLAM (Language Support) Suitable for three to 12-year-olds, FLAM courses (French mother tongue support) are aimed at French-speaking children educated in local or international schools. This is an extracurricular programme organised in small groups that take place one to three times a week. Les Petits Lascars is the only institute that offers a FLAM program recognised by the AEFE in Hong Kong.

Maternelle (K1 to K3) After TPS, children graduate to Maternelle, compulsory from the age of three in the French system. The programme is designed to develop the enjoyment and reward of learning.

By playing, thinking and solving problems, children are able to build the first essential steps towards successful learning.

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EDUCATION

Learning in an inspired campus

Path after graduation An indispensable player in the continuity of French education in Hong Kong, Les Petits Lascars offers an easy pathway to the French International School after graduation. Parents have noted that after an education at Les Petits Lascars, children are better prepared and are able to integrate easier into the next step of their schooling.

Les Petits Lascars has three campuses across Hong Kong. Its Southside location is just minutes away from MTR Wong Chuk Hang Station, Tseung Kwan O location is adjacent to Lycée Français; while its Central location is in the heart of the business district, two minutes from the MTR station. All three sites have ample outdoor space for children to run and play.

Whether it is the new campus at Tseung Kwan O or the locations at Central and Southside, the school makes sure to dedicate specific facilities for each age group. For example, children in Éveil classes can access their own play area and mothers have access to a dedicated feeding and changing room.

All classrooms are bright and colourful, equipped with interactive whiteboards and furnished with high-end fittings – all brand new and designed to help little children learn.

Most importantly, each of the campuses has access to abundant outdoor space.

The Southside and Central locations are steps away from public outdoor areas and Tseung Kwan O has its own private outdoor playground.

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For more information about Les Petits Lascars French International Kindergarten and Preschool, visit petitslascars.com

EDUCATION

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marketplace

marketplace

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To advertise, email talk@hongkongliving.com or call 2776 2772.

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Rugrat Ramblings

Diary of a quarantine baby

The youngest member of our team shares some rhymes during these trying times I wasn’t too thrilled - two weeks was too long, mum promised it’d go really fast.

Fourteen days inside would be quite a rough ride, I just did not know if I’d last.

Day eight, it emerged, was a whole different vibe, as we headed towards final freedom. Day eight, it was rough, it was lonely, just tough, turns out, friends, we really do need ‘em.

Day one it began, unlike other days, as mum, it seemed, had a new interest.

She’d crafted new things made of cartons and strings and would comment “I found it on Pinterest”.

Day nine, there’s a knock, “Who’s there! Who are you?” we yelled out to our mystery friend. ‘Twas the best buzz we’d had, it was great, it was rad, a package left at our door, in the end.

Day two rolled around, quite quickly indeed, thanks to all of my new homemade games.

“This thing is a breeze, twelve days more if you please” - then we went and did more of the same.

Day ten, double digits, a milestone it’s true, we were finally on the last leg. I dreamed of the day we could stroll by the bay, mum, however, just wanted a keg.

Day three once again, we woke up and got dressed, but the normal rules did not apply.

“Let’s put on our best, today’s not like the rest” mum said as she clipped my bow tie.

Day eleven, thank heavens, you’ve kindly arrived, I’d dreamed of this day since day one.

In less than one week, I could be at the Peak, just thrilled to be out in the sun.

Day twelve was a doozy, like nothing before, ordered pizza and pasta and ribs. We were all feeling lazy, our minds going crazy, I hoped mum had washed all my bibs.

Day four, change of pace as the struggle began, we missed the sunshine and fresh air. Face pushed up to the glass, I stared out at the grass and imagined myself sitting there.

Day thirteen it rained, and it rained and it rained, we watched it fall down from indoors. I point blank kid you not, at no point did it stop, I guess my day had panned out like yours.

Day five had arrived, like many before, except this day it was not the same. Television was on with the same Sesame Street song - mum too tired to invent a new game.

Day six of quarantine and we found a groove, a routine that made the day fly. We’d wake then we’d play, then have lunch at midday, dance around till the day passed us by.

Day seven – Hello! Are you already here? It seemed we were now half way there. Though I missed the outdoors, I’d grown fond of our floors, I truly enjoyed it – I swear!

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Day fourteen – you’re here!

So glad you’ve arrived, when the clock strikes midnight tonight, I’ll be out on the street, yelling “OH what a treat! Our future now truly is bright!”

Thoughts and perceptions from the mind of an expat baby

So, freedom did come, after two long-ish weeks, although missing events was a pity.

But we did our time, stayed completely confined, for the overall health of our city.

So say, if you’re stuck in your home quarantine, and starting to feel that just maybe, your head is a mess and your family’s distressed, don’t forget ‘bout this quarantine baby.

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