New! BÉBÉ section 24 pages
FEEDING BABY
starter kits check out new feeding systems
TRAVELOGUE
enjoy the outdoors Ideas and tips for a family vacay
NOVEMber 2015
“Help! What’s the best birth plan?” Everything you need to know when planning for the big day
great shoes
best feet Fashionable and practical sole care
? Need to know birth plan
bébé
HELP! I DON’T HAVE
WIN! Petit flo baby wipes Refer to page 21 for more details
enough milk! 02 Welcome to Pregnancy
More and more mumsto-be are coming up with interesting birth plans which include special requests such as warm tub for pain relief, aromatherapy candles and certain music to be played in the delivery room. You can also plan to not have epidurals or episiotomy.
Checklist for You and Baby
06
The Big Day Trend
Birthing Exposé
11
STARTER KITS
Bottle and Breastfeeding Basics
BIG day BLOOPERS
“Oh, I’m going to faint...” This is one common blurt by dads-to-be in the labour ward on top of the other anxious gibberish, weak knees and bundle of nerves.
12
Snuggle Me
Pods and Swaddles
be Part of the bébé Family! Get your welcome gift* from www.bit.ly/SCbebefamily *Terms and conditions apply.
The milk glands present in your breasts are activated only by pregnancy. The milk production starts at the beginning of the pregnancy and some mothers experience pre-milk lactation typically in the last trimester. Pregnancy stimulates alveolar growth that causes the change in breast size, shape and volume during pregnancy. Milk production kicks into high gear when your baby
14
Tried and Tested
Nappy Rash and Sensitive Skin is born and this milk-making cells multiply according to demand during the next several weeks, months and years. Thus, when your baby is older and the need for milk gradually diminishes, the alveoli also begin to dwindle and stop milk production. What can you do to ensure adequate milk production to feed your little one? Read more on page 10.
, g a b e a v b a y n h i w h u l o’s always smi If yo we’d love to hear fr you! om
Join us in the search for our first star bebe Win
! Attractive prizes
Stand a chance to walk away with more than $3,000 worth of gifts, plus be featured in Singapore's Child! Shortlisted babies will also be invited to an exclusive bébé party in January 2016!
Open to babies aged 3 months to 18 months
How to participate?
Log on to www.bit.ly/bebe2015 to submit your baby’s best photo*, and fill in your particulars. Registration closes on 31 December 2015. *Terms and conditions apply.
Organiser
Partner
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pregnancy / plan
welcome to pregnancy!
01
Congratulations! This is your first step into the most wondrous journey in your life.
0-12 weeks
First Trimester
This is the most critical stage of your pregnancy where the placenta develops to transfer nutrients from you to your baby, and waste transfer from the baby. The brain, spinal cord, central nervous system tissue is well formed. On top of the digestive tract, skin, facial features, sensory organs, bones and the limbs are also formed. You can expect: Anxiety Fatigue Mood Swings Morning Sickness 1 to 1.5kg heavier
R
eceiving the ultrasound scan printout of the tiny growing life in your body can be the most unbelievable experience. The flood of emotions is indescribable – the joy, amazement, gratitude, appreciation of life’s miracles and your very own body.
2 november 2015
Your Body is Amazing! Love this part of your womanhood. Imagine how your body is supporting the life of another one growing inside of you. Pregnancy stages are divided into weeks, also known as trimesters. At the
beginning, you will not notice much of a drastic change to your physical appearance but there are certainly a lot of things happening within. Little Seed From fertilisation to implantation, your precious is the size of a poppy seed at 10 weeks and he will continue to increase in size as your pregnancy progresses. Your body will start to change too and these changes are Mother Nature’s way of making you and your baby ready for birth and post-birth sustenance.
? did you know?
Pregnancy Retail Therapy Checklist! 02
13-27 weeks
03
28-40 weeks
second Trimester
third Trimester
Your baby is growing fast! Your baby’s movement can be felt by you. The baby’s skin goes through rapid growth and the eyebrows, eyelashes and nails also start to grow. Now, your baby’s heartbeat can also be heard by a stethoscope and the sex of your baby can be determined, unless you’d rather be surprised. You can expect: Food Cravings Food / Smell Aversions Pregnancy Glow Baby’s Movements 6 to 7.5kg heavier
Your baby’s hearing will be developed alongside with an increase in body fat. He is about 36cm long and weighs from about 900-1800g. He gets increasingly active and responds to external stimuli, including sound, pain, and light. If born prematurely, your baby would probably survive after the seventh month of pregnancy. You can expect: Backache Braxton Hicks Contraction Spotting / Bleeding Enlarged breasts 12 to 17kg heavier
There are many things to prepare and bébé has a checklist for you to kick-start your parenting journey.
STYLE
NURSING
Time to rev up the retail therapy for yourself. Don’t let the tremendous changes cause wardrobe malfunction. The main thing is keep comfort and practicality as priorities.
This is the biggie. Welcome to nursing gadgetry world and feeding apparatus! It’s always good to do your homework to find out what suits you, your ideal feeding style and even kitchen space.
For You
maternity undergarments maternity tops and cardigans sleep bras and nightwear maternity pants and jeans wrap around skirt, yoga pants nursing bras and pads
breastfeeding
breast pumps breastfeeding pillow breastfeeding covers feeding cloths and bibs storage bottles or packs
For baby
receiving blankets daywear outfits sleepsuits / onesies jacket, long pants body warmer / wrap-over vests mittens and socks head warmers and caps pram, infant car seat sun shades and blinds
Bottle feeding
feeding bottles feeding teats formulas Sterilisation
sterilising equipment apparatus storage cleaning tools
NURSERY
hygience
This part of pregnancy is usually one of the most poignant as you ready the room to welcome the little one.
Don’t underestimate bath time routine needs. This often catches many unexperienced parents by surprise.
sleeping
about
of pregnant mums never experience morning sickness. And if you are one of them, here is a big congratulations to you and your husband!
of those pregnant suffer from intractable nausea and vomiting called Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) leading to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in the body.
25% 2%
cot and mattress mattress sheets comforter and cot bumper sleeping bags and swaddles Furniture
nursing chair nursing cushion side table changing unit baby monitor storage night light thermometer, if necessary
Bathroom
bath tub non-slip mat / bather / seat towel or robes bath wash bath thermometer, if necessary Changing Station
change mats basin or bowl baby wipes barrier cream baby nail scissors cotton wool / cotton buds
3 november 2015
Lucky
pregnancy / plan
THE BIG DAY TREND
Expectant mums can choose to have either a vaginal birth or a surgical delivery, but the ultimate goal is to safely give birth to a healthy baby.
Vaginal Birth
It is the delivery of the baby during childbirth from the vagina to the external environment and this is the most common birthing method. Do not feel stressed or pressured by needing to conform to this. Every individual is different. Natural Birth
No drugs are given to relieve or alleviate the mother’s pain or aid the birth process. There is also no medical intervention during the labour and childbirth. In most cases, natural childbirth is considered the safest for the baby provided that both mother and child are healthy and do not suffer from any health issues. Water Birth
Water birth takes place in water as immersion in water is believed to result in a less painful childbirth, especially in the first stages of labour with evidence of fewer epidurals. There is yet to be clear scientific proof on its safety and there have been documentation of adverse neonatal results; mother and/or baby infections, maternal fever, birth complications and infant drowning possibility. Discuss with your doctor as water birth has drawn both critics and supporters.
Need to know?
In the process of childbirth, it is typically categorised into three labour stages: 1
The shortening and dilation of the cervix 2
Descent and birth of the infant 3
Emergency C-Section
For the safety of mum and/or baby, Caesarean birth becomes necessary in some circumstances. Embrace it even if it is an unplanned labour and delivery choice as your doctor would have the medical experience and knowledge to recommend what is best for you and your baby. Yoga Birth
6 november 2015
Yoga birth combines mind-body wisdom of yoga and scientific evidence-based labour methods. It does not endorse any particular method of birth; it is about learning to be centered and choosing birthing that one thinks and feels is suitable. It may include yoga breathing and related pain relief techniques.
The expulsion of the placenta
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Top Misconceptions
when you join our Bébé Family!
To register, log on to www.bit.ly/SCbebefamily *Terms and conditions apply.
Labour = Pain + Misery There are mothers who go through extremely fast (precipitous) labour with unnoticeable contractions unlike others who experience long hours of painful contractions. For a first-time mum, this first stage can last for half a day (or longer). Once in active labour, the uterine contractions elevate the pain but given the right support and medical aid, it can still be relatively comfortable. Once into the last segment of labour (transition through birth of the baby); the most intense part of labour and birth, it will all be over very soon as it is the last and shortest duration of the entire process.
“What?
Oh my god, no one told me about this...”
Deano watched in horror as he witnessed how the delivery room nurses pushed down hard on his wife’s abdomen to help literally push (yes, with Sumo strength) the baby down.
100% Natural Births = Best Sarah J. Buckley, famed physician, writer, international speaker and mother of four explains, “that one should not be too obsessed with the word "natural”. There are times when medication and medical intervention are warranted in childbirth. For example, women who have suffered preeclampsia during their pregnancy may experience worsening of their blood pressure during labour. Medications may be used in this scenario to bring down dangerously high blood pressure and/or to prevent maternal seizures."
“I am going to faint...” This was what went on in Jeremy’s (not his real name) head before passing out in the labour ward. An enthusiastic Scrambler bike racer, he is absolutely embarrassed. But his wife thinks that this is the most endearing part of her husband; “The Gentle Giant”.
“Is this real? I am a father now?” Sam said he could not believe his eyes after they (he and his wife, Andrea) went through all the drama. First, they had to schedule for induced vaginal birth as their baby was a week past estimated delivery date (EDD) but circumstances had it that it was safer for both of them (mother and baby) to have an emergency C-section when the dilation was only eight centimetres and the baby was crowning.
“SHI CHEN”
7 november 2015
did you know?
Some parents engage fortune tellers or geomancers to pick an auspicious date and time; “Shi Chen” for scheduled births to complement the birth dates of other family members. This is similar to choosing an auspicious wedding date. On the other hand, there are those who believe that the baby should be the one who should “choose” the date and time of birth.
baby / trending 02 RATTLE DAZZLE
Add some playful colours to the pram with this Strawberry Soft Baby Rattle ($9.95, Cotton On Kids).
03 THE REAL DEAL
New Pigeon SOFTOUCH™ Peristaltic PLUS bottle ($13.90, major departmental and baby stores) is designed to enable a baby to replicate natural feeding motion and promote healthy sucking behaviour.
04 TRAVEL AID
baby talk
Who says you can’t be trendy and chic with a newborn baby on board? Jazz up your motherhood journey with these stylish picks!
14 november 2015
01 SO BOOTIE-FUL
Keep your baby’s feet warm and (cute!) with a pair of Bootees ($12.90, H&M).
The Stokke Trailz ($2,198 (stroller seat), $2,049 (carry cot), Mothercare, Motherswork and Mums & Babes) is an all-terrain stroller built for active parents.
07 ROAD TRIP
Buckle up your precious cargo into the DAIICHI D-Guard Toddler Car Seat ($499, Mothercare and major departmental stores). Made from organic cotton, this ingenious product features four reclining positions for backrest, a five point harness system and a four step head-rest frame.
08 FRUITY PLAY
This Innobaby Teether ($10.90, Motherswork) won our seal of approval with its unique shape and texture that stimulates hand-eye coordination.
05 ONE FOR ME
Let’s face it, babies look extra cuddly in a onesie. That’s why we’re totally digging this Quilted Onesie ($89.00, ZARA Kids).
10 SOFT & COMFY
09 ON THE GO
Carry all of your bub’s bits and bobs in this stylish Baby Bag ($49.95, Cotton On).
06
For leggings that are soft and comfy, check out these super cute and fancy Mini Leggings ($14.95, each, Cotton On Kids).
11 SNAPPY SET-Up
A full-function high chair, the Geuther Nico Convertible Highchair ($159, First Few Years store) provides full stability for your baby when feeding.
This Cambrass Small Bed Urban ($429, Motherswork) is of exceptional quality, design and safety with lockable wheels for ease of use.
15 november 2015
ON A HIGH
PYJAMA PARTY Who says that pyjamas need to always be plain and boring? Turn your child’s slumber party into a fashionable one with these cosy and fun loungewear ideas!
On the bed: Donut printed quilt cover by Sack Me, $165, kookies + milk; Diamond printed pillowcase by Sack Me, $39, kookies + milk; Brown plush toy bunny in Jelly, $99.95, Seed Heritage; Gold candy plush toy by Sack Me, $39, kookies + milk; Red striped candy plush toy by Sack Me, $39, kookies + milk, On Noah: Graphic print grey tank, $50, Gap; Grey jogger pants, $30, Gap; Striped socks, stylist’s own; JR Mattias Boy, $118, GEOX On Martha: Dragonfly T-shirt by Mini Rodini, $39.95, Tinydipity; Dragonfly pants by Mini Rodini, $35.40, Tinydipity; Pink bathrobe, $36, Mothercare; Blue plush toy bunny in Jellycat, $34.95, Seed Heritage; Plié, from $88 onwards, GEOX
Photography Ian Jemiz Art Direction Geraldine Tan & Shaistah Munawar Stylist Sharon Tan assisted by Naomi Tham Hair and Makeup Adelene Siow (Paletteinc) using Urban Decay Models Merel, Noah and Martha (Red Carpet Invite Models & Talents Agency 9739 3673)
a brat in the making? EIGHT SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS CROSSING THE LINE.
D
oes your child often display dissatisfaction, looks down on others and likes to lament how things can be better? If there is a trend of constant parade of disappointment and contempt for things, and demands for you to make things “perfect”, then your child may be developing an unhealthy and inflated sense of entitlement. There is a thin line between loving the child and indulging the child in their whims and fancies. Indulgence is often one of the reasons why a child can potentially become a brat, especially when they can get almost everything they want. They grow to become demanding and unappreciative. And when things don’t go their way, they will find their means to get it. There you have it, a bratty little one who may not only pout but resort to tantrums and even aggression at times. Are you wondering if your child’s tantrum(s) is more than it meets the eye? Perhaps it’s time for you to start recognising some indicators and how you can correct the bad behaviour and remedy the situation.
“Children are natural mimics who act like their parents despite every effort to teach them good manners.”
42 NOVEMBER 2015
1 TANTRUM KINGS AND QUEENS They resort to different stances with varying level of intensities to get what they want. Level 1: Pout Level 2: Cry or wail Level 3: Scream or yell Level 4: Throw themselves on the floor What you can do: Learn to say “no” and not give in to their tantrums. It is best to nip the issue in the bud before it escalates to unmanageable levels. If you give in to their tantrums, they know it’s your week spot and they will try this tactic whenever they can.
2 WHINING MARATHONER They whine from the moment they wake up or whenever they want something done their way. Level 1: Whine Level 2: Grumble Level 3: Complain Level 4: Blame you for their unhappiness What you can do: Show them that what they have is not an entitlement. Guide them on how to be grateful and develop a sense of appreciation and thankfulness for things given to them or even activities planned for them. Teach them how to say, “Thank you, Mummy. I appreciate the dinner you made”.
6 PROUD SHOW-OFFS
5 I, ME AND MYSELF
What you can do: Encourage them to join others and be part of the activity. Brattiness is different from being shy. Get them to understand the importance of acceptable social behaviour and the importance of sharing, caring and service to others. Give them opportunities to share things at home and later, help with simple chores.
What you can do: This sort of brattiness is usually derived from their sense of entitlement and overindulgence. Don’t succumb to their every whim and fancy, instead make them earn some of the things they want. If bragging of possessions and taunting of others start, it’s time to intervene. Make sure you carry through your decision when you say “no” or else they will not take you seriously.
BOXING CHAMPION They resort to inflicting pain and becoming violent to “terrorise” you or anyone to get their way. Level 1: Grab Level 2: Snatch Level 3: Hit or pinch Level 4: Punch or kick What you can do: Stop violent and aggressive behaviour the moment your child acts out. Do not delay it and hope that your child will outgrow it. Be firm and consistent with the consequences. Most importantly, explain to your child why violence is not the way to solve problems.
7 DEFIANT WARRIOR They are resistant to your suggestions, instructions and even negotiate their way out. Level 1: Resist what you tell them Level 2: Break rules and boundaries you set Level 3: Defy instructions and orders Level 4: Defy openly and act against you What you can do: This is a tough one. You need to firmly discipline your child and explain that defiance is not tolerated especially when it is for their own good. Give concrete examples why some boundaries cannot be crossed. E.g. Stealing snacks and eating in the room or being openly defiant.
TRANSPARENT WORLD They disregard others’ presence. Level 1: Ignore others Level 2: Refuse to greet others Level 3: Refuse to make friends Level 4: Refuse to say thank you or goodbye What you can do: Demonstrate how to show others basic courtesy and respect, and explain their importance. Take away priviledges until they learn to be polite to others, both adults and children alike. Discipline firmly when they show disrespect. Don’t be afraid to stop activity immediately as the issue should be dealt with immediately with urgency.
8 EVERYTHING IS BENEATH ME They are bored, restless and always looking for exciting and new things. Level 1: Always want new experience Level 2: Get bored when doing same activity Level 3: Have a sense of inflated entitlement Level 4: Look down on others What you can do: You need to strike a balance between giving your child exposure to new things and experiences. You need to cut back when your child thinks that anything fun and interesting has to be something new (worse, expensive) and exclusive.
43 NOVEMBER 2015
TEXT JUANSA ARISSA CHENG
Everything revolves around them and they refuse to: Level 1: Be part of group Level 2: Be part of activity Level 3: Share things Level 4: Help others
They constantly like to showoff what they have or what they can do. Level 1: Always want the latest toy in town Level 2: Flaunt their new toys Level 3: Brag about their things or skills Level 4: Taunt others
3
4
LOCAL TRAVELOGUE,
the curious five HOLIDAYS AND TRAVEL NEED NOT BE DEFINED BY FLIGHTS. WE GO AGAINST THE GRAIN TO SHARE SOME LOCAL GEMS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE VACATIONING OVERSEAS.
INFORMATION
PERMITS: You don’t need a permit to camp at the following campsites. However, do register your particulars at Pulau Ubin Police Post to facilitate contact in case of emergency. You are advised to visit Ubin National Parks Information Kiosk for more camping information.
1
Pulau Ubin
44 NOVEMBER 2015
Pulau Ubin means “granite island” in Malay. Though many of us know its existence, few have truly explored the island. Before you book your flight out for your next trip, consider a five-minute bumboat ferry to this island. If you had been an adventurer in your younger days, the mountain bike trails may be a second home to you then. Now, with a kid or two in tow, skip the rocky sections and rediscover the flat gravel roads and the 100-hectare Chek Jawa wetland. Remember to pre-register with National Parks (NParks) before your visit as it is a fragile marine habitat with a limited low tide period daily. Visitor numbers are restricted (first-come-first-served basis). If you are confident enough to camp overnight with your family, be sure to check out the necessary preparation. Otherwise, Celestial Ubin Beach Resort can be an option.
CAMPSITES: There are three popular campsites with toilet facilities other than the other wild and unspoilt spots. • Noordin Beach (Northern tip facing Johor) • Mamam Beach (North-eastern side) • Jelutung Campsite (Southern tip)
FACILITIES: Note that water at the above three campsite is not potable.
CAUTION: Pulau Ubin is a protected natural environment. Under the ‘Parks and Trees Act’, you are not allowed to cut trees, branches or set up a campfire. Offenders can be fined up to $50,000. Visit www.nparks.gov.sg/ parks-and-nature-reserves for more information.
2
Wildlife Wonders
PHOTOGRAPHY KHEE MENG, JUANSA ARISSA CHENG, GARDENASIA AND GALLOP STABLE
Experience the great outdoors and introduce your young ones to the rich tropical wildlife at Sungei Buloh. At this130-hectare nature reserve in Singapore, visitors are required to stay on routes for their safety and to prevent disturbance to the wildlife habitat. These routes will take you to the richest sights of the tropical wildlife, yet minimising the discomfort and fear of unknown territories. It is best to go on tour with a guide to learn about the wondrous flora and fauna, and there are free weekend guided walks. Spot families of otters, shorebirds and crocodiles as you walk along.
INFORMATION
VISITOR CENTRE Head to the Visitor Centre for the 10-minute show. There, you will also find toilet facilities and more information on the different routes.
ROUTES There are five popular routes here. • Kranji Nature Trail (2km trail, 20mins to walk) • Mangrove Boardwalk (500m boardwalk, suitable for prams/wheelchairs, 30mins to walk) • Route 1 (3km trail, 1-2hrs to walk) • Route 2 (5km trail, 2-3hrs to walk) • Route 3 (7km trail, 4-5hrs to walk)
Visit www.nparks.gov.sg/ sbwr for more information.
INFORMATION
ACCOMMODATION Gardenasia
Kranji Outback
Gardenasia is an urban getaway for the family with beautiful countryside and lake view. It is tranquility right in the heart of Kranji with surprises nearby. The farms in the area are open to the public – buy farm-fresh local produce, take part in hands-on activities or visit the Food Museum at Bollywood Veggies.
Visit www.kranjicountryside. com for more information.
45 NOVEMBER 2015
TEXT JUANSA ARISSA CHENG
3
TRANSPORT Take the Kranji Countryside Express bus from Kranji MRT station to the following farms. • Bollywood Veggies • D’Kranji Farm Resort • Gardenasia (Nyee Phoe) • Hay Dairies Goat Farm • Jurong Frog Farm • Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
FEAST
GO LOCAL
with a twist!
TRADITIONAL FLAVOURS IN MODERN FUSION BITES.
BREAKFAST
PERANAKAN ZEST www.zespri.com.sg
50 NOVEMBER 2015
Start your day with this kiwifruit breakfast with a Peranakan twist – recipes by culinary guru, Violet Oon. The 66-year-old food ambassador, chef, restaurateur, culinary authority, writer and ex-opera singer shares the secret of her youthful looks; her daily fruit breakfast. She didn’t need much persuading when Zespri Kiwifruit Singapore asked her to create some recipes to introduce the goodness and taste of green kiwifruit into the local cuisine. Check out these three Violet Oon’s signature dishes she created for “Wake Up With a Kiwi” – Zespri Green Kiwifruit Gula Melaka Yogurt Smoothie, Zespri Green Kiwifruit Gula Melaka Sauce and Zespri Green Kiwifruit Chilli Chutney at www.zespri.com.sg/violetoonrecipes. Zespri Kiwifruit is available at leading supermarkets.
QUICK FACTS LUNCH
KIWIFRUIT
DINNER
FUJIAN DELIGHT
HAINANESE ROLL
127 Kitchener Road Singapore 278514 and other outlets across the island www.putien.com
4 Tampines Central 5, Tampines Mall B1-K11, Singapore 529510 www.rollout.com.sg
Putien is famous for its wide repertoire of dishes which are consistent in quality and with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. A popular all-time favourite, the Iced Bitter Gourd ($5.90) bears testimony to the culinary artistry and appreciation of the innate natural quality of food. This seemingly simply dish requires skilful execution of delicate knife knacks and the translucent-thin slices are sweet and juicy, a refreshing treat in the afternoon.
Inspired by the local hawker legacy, The Hainanese Signature ($4.90) is a fusion star. Don’t be deceived by the Japanese appearance as the Sushi rice, poached chicken and grated ginger sauce deliver an aromatic Hainanese punch. Another surprise is The Quacks ($4.90), black pepper smoked duck with Hoisin sauce that is bursting with savoury nostalgia, tangy spring onion and refreshing cucumåber. Pour a shot of Mijiu or Sake and enjoy the layers of flavours slowly unfolding.
Kiwifruit’s skin is edible and is most rich in fibre. Its flesh contains many powerful antioxidants like vitamin E, polyphenols and carotenoids.
BITTERGOURD
The pods are low in calories but rich in phytonutrients sources like polypeptide-P, a plant insulin known to lower blood sugar levels. It is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
SUPPER
SZE CHUAN FUSION Me@OUE Rooftop, OUE Bayfront 50 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049321 www.me-oue.com
51 NOVEMBER 2015
The rich and spicy sauce penetrating the delicate tofu cubes prepared in Chef Kenichi’s unique Japanese and Chinese sauces give a new spin to the original Mala Sichuan cuisine. Chen’s MaPo Tofu is a modern twist with the right amount of heat sure to delight the senses. Enjoy your supper with panoramic views of the city’s skyline in a sophisticated ambience. A perfect supper ‘getaway’ once the kids are in bed. Minimum age requirement: 10 years for children.
PEPPERCORN
This spice not only enhances the flavour of food but can also help to calm a cold with its ‘heaty’ property. It contains piperine, found to prevent breast tumour.
Kids / learn
Making
math fun Here are eight ways to improve your child’s numeracy competency from home.
T
here’s no doubt that children need lots of experiences in learning, counting, drawing and talking about numbers. Make connections for your child by explaining how numbers and counting are a part of everyday life. Keeping up with today’s standard of mathematics may not be a piece of cake, but fret not! With these practical tips from Ashley Yeo, a private childcare teacher, you will be able to support your child in many different ways. Let’s get started!
Visualise the Problem Practise visualisation skills to support visual-spatial and verbal working memory. Ask your child to create a picture in her mind to represent information on what she has just heard or read. Have her draw a picture of the material and explain it. “The goal would be to have your child describe the picture she has in her mind rather than to draw it. It may be helpful to give her cues to create this mental image such as who, what, where, when, colour, size, shape, number, texture, mood, movement, and sound,” says Ashley.
Get Measuring Teaching your child how to measure is a great way to help them understand numbers better. Use a heightmeasuring wallchart to measure the height of people in your family.
58 november 2015
Try this: Cut a piece of string for your child, any length will do. Use the string to measure the objects in your house to find out what is longer or shorter than the ‘string measuring tape’ you just created. Ask your child to identify anything that is of the same length. Explore other ways of measuring using a cup, jug, teaspoon, icy pole sticks, foot prints or hand lengths. Build a tower of blocks that is taller than a favourite
Making Patterns! Recognising and making patterns are important mathematics skills for exploring numbers, shapes and symmetry. Here are three easy tips to try. √ Get your child to identify and explain visual patterns on clothing, wrapping paper, crockery, cards and furniture. √ Use coloured pegs, blocks, beads or cutlery to begin a pattern for your child to continue. For example, red, blue, white, red, blue, white. √ Encourage your child to draw, create and describe their own patterns. Use them for borders or greeting cards or on material.
toy. Ask your child to count the total blocks to measure the height of the tower.
Grab the Playing Cards Popular family card games such as UNO require memory and the use numbers, sets, and mathematical concepts. Ashley suggests for you to tap on this card came to point out the memory strategies that lead to success in the game. “Playing these games can help your child learn to retain information from earlier in-game experiences, and then retrieve the information and use it when making a decision in the present,” she adds. Switch games to keep your child interested and play increasingly more complex games when they master easier ones.
Write it Out Teach your child to write rather than just remember mathematics facts and equations. Mathematics word problems are frequently identified as an area of difficulty for individuals with weak working memory skills. Thus, the simple act of writing down the key components of a word problem circumvents the need to keep too much information in mind. “Using some type of graphical representation for math word problems such as numbering steps, arrows that connect information in a meaningful way, or a drawing that summarises the problem may be very helpful for some children,” advises Ashley.
Playing Shop
Use play money to buy and sell goods from the shop. Order the food items by height (tallest to the shortest) or by cost (least expensive to most expensive). Introduce kitchen scales to the shop to weigh some foods such as a box of tea bags or a bag of rice, and order items by weight. This way, your child will better understand the concept of money and counting better.
Talk about Time The concept of time can be hard to grasp. Talk to your child about minutes and hours. Then get her to try counting days and weeks – for example how many “sleeps” until the weekend or a visit to a friend or relative.
Tap onto Daily Life Your child’s world is filled with everyday mathematics problems that can be solved. For example, “There are four people in our family and we each need a knife and a fork to eat dinner. How many knives and forks do we need to set the table?” This kind of basic question trains your child do mental calculations faster.
Math Vocab! It’s true; your child may never understand any concept without understanding what it means. Before challenging your child to tackle sums, check that your children can define new terms. If not, have them use models and simple problems to show you they understand how the term is used. Remember, the more solid the foundation, the more stable the building.
More Than Just Numbers Nurture a brainiac with the help of CMA Institute’s Abacus-Mental Arithmetic programme. Making use of a specialised ‘two-hand, four-finger’ abacus method, CMA also incorporates online learning into its programme for flexibility in study schedules. We love that it’s an ability-based programme that is paced according to your child’s learning progress, so you don’t have to worry about your little one not being able to catch up! For more information, visit www.cma.edu.sg or call 6257 0028.
59 november 2015
text Shaistah Munawar
Perhaps one of the most fun ways; playing shop or ‘masak-masak’ is everyone’s favourite! Entice your child to enjoy math more by collecting food and grocery items and labelling them with prices
written on sticky notes. Talk about how both of you pay for items using notes and coins.
YOU / HEALTH
kidney stones 101 STOP IGNORING THE PAIN IN YOUR BACK. DISCOVER THE FACTS BEHIND KIDNEY STONES AND HOW IT CAN AFFECT YOUR FAMILY.
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et’s get real – there have been much talk and research done that those who are overweight and consume foods and beverages high in sodium and oxalates. They are at a higher risk of developing kidney stones, especially if not hydrated adequately. If you’ve ever had a kidney stone, you’d surely remember it. The pain can be unbearable, coming in waves until the tiny stone passes through your urinary plumbing and out of the body. Moreover, kidney stones don’t just affect adults; children too may develop them even at that tender age.
WHAT IS IT? A kidney stone (nephrolithiasis) is a hard, crystalline mineral material formed within the kidney or urinary tract. It is also one of the most common urinary tract disorders.
WHY IT DEVELOPS? Known as a urinary disorder, kidney stones occur when salt or chemicals in the urine form crystals. These stones can then restrict the flow of urine, and lead to serious complications including infection, kidney damage or even kidney failure. Kidney stones consist of various types of chemicals including calcium, phosphate and oxalate.
WHO DOES IT AFFECT? 68 NOVEMBER 2015
Did you know? One in every 20 people develop kidney stones at some point in their life. In fact, there has been a rise in the formation of stones in school-going and older children these days due to imbalance in diet and lifestyle. There are four major kinds of kidney stones that include:
• Calcium stones. The most common kind of kidney stone, these develop when calcium in the urine combines with other substances to form crystals. • Uric acid stones. This type of stone forms when there is too much uric acid in the pee. Uric acid can crystallize by itself or combine with calcium to form a stone. • Struvite stones. These stones can grow rather large. They’re made of a mineral called struvite, which is a combination of ammonium, magnesium, and phosphate.
DID YOU KNOW?
Get the calcium you need: Getting
According to Dr Allan Jhagroo, a kidney stone specialist, a common misconception is that cutting the oxalate-rich foods in your diet alone will reduce the likelihood of forming calcium oxalate kidney stones.
Symptoms may vary from none, especially when it comes to the small stones. When they’re small, they may be passed out on their own without pain. However, large stones may block urine flow, which can cause a number of painful symptoms that can be quite severe. Here’s a list of the most common symptoms of kidney stones: • Pain in the abdomen, flank (side), back, or groin • Blood in the urine • Frequent urination • Nausea and/or vomiting • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine • Pink, red or brown urine • Pain on urination
too little calcium in your diet can cause oxalate levels to rise and cause kidney stones. To prevent this, make sure to take in an amount of calcium appropriate for your age. Ideally, obtain calcium from foods, since some studies have linked taking calcium supplements to kidney stones. Reduce sodium: A high-sodium diet can
trigger kidney stones because it increases the amount of calcium in your urine. So a low-sodium diet is recommended for the stone prone.
• Cystine stones. This rare type of stone forms if someone has too much of an amino acid called cystine in the urine.
WHEN DO WE KNOW IT’S KIDNEY STONES?
said that the citrate in these beverages helps prevent stone formation.
Limit protein intake: Eating too much Non-caloric sweeteners may impair kidney function if consumed long term. This is why you should always stick to natural sweeteners like honey!
protein, such as red meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, boosts the level of uric acid and could lead to kidney stones. A highprotein diet also reduces levels of citrate, the chemical in urine that helps prevent stones from forming. If you’re prone to stones, limit your daily meat intake to a quantity that is no bigger than a pack of playing cards. Avoid stone-forming foods: Beets,
Drinking milk, which has calcium, does NOT cause kidney stones.
chocolate, spinach, rhubarb, tea, and most nuts are rich in oxalate, and colas are rich in phosphate, both of which can contribute to kidney stones. If you suffer from stones, your doctor may advise you to avoid these foods or to consume them in smaller amounts.
HOW TO PREVENT? Preventing kidney stones isn’t complicated, but it does take some determination. Here are five ways.
dilutes the substances in urine that lead to stones. Strive to drink enough fluids to pass two-litres of urine a day, which is roughly eight standard cups. It may help to include some citrus beverages, like lemonade and orange juice. It has been
Always stick to water to hydrate – fluids such as tea, coffee, sodas, and soft drinks should be taken in moderation! All of these fluids do cause increased flow of urine but also cause a loss of body fluid at the same time – so stay away!
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Dehydration is a major risk factor for kidney stone formation.
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Hereditary factors are also related to stone formation.
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Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep more stones from forming.
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Infection and blockage of the urinary tract are the primary complications associated with waiting for a kidney stone to pass. This is why you should always seek medical help fast.
69 NOVEMBER 2015
TEXT SHAISTAH MUNAWAR
Drink plenty of water: Drinking extra water
WATCH OUT!
YOU / HEALTH
sneaky calories WATCH OUT FOR THE HIDDEN CALORIES WHEN YOU TAKE THAT SIP.
Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 1 Milkshake (300ml) Amount Per Serving Calories 383
Calories From Fat 125
% Daily Values* Total Fat 13.84G Saturated Fat
21% 8.385G
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.628G Monosaturated Fat 3.803G Cholesterol 45Mg
42% 15%
Sodium 192Mg
8%
Total Carbohydrate 56.91G
19%
Dietary Fibre 2.5G Sugars 49.01G
10%
Protein 9.03G
70 NOVEMBER 2015
Vitamin A
10%
Vitamin C
1%
Calcium 30% Iron 10% *percent daily values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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ith the heat and haze, that ice-cold glass of sparkling lemonade or a pint of beer with fruity hop can be simply irresistible. Not forgetting the caffeine fix that most of us succumb to especially when drowning in the late afternoon office drudgery. Many of us consume more calories than intended due to all the calorie-infused drinks we sip at different times of the day. To make matters worse, these calories are usually empty calories. Empty calories simply refer to foods or drinks that have food energy but low in nutritional value or in some cases, no nutrition at all. In other words it is also known as a discretionary calorie – same unit of energy (kilojoules) without dietary fibre, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and amino acids. One way to reduce calorie consumption is not to totally deprive yourself of the drinks you enjoy but rather be more mindful of the quantity and frequency of consumption. Take for example, you may love the creamy mocha Frappuccino but drink it in moderation and turn into an occasional treat. Opt for a cappuccino if you still want some velvety smooth texture in your coffee and slowly adjust to getting your caffeine fix without too much of empty kilojoules.
DID YOU KNOW? ENOUGH TO BE A FULL MEAL A serving of milkshake is equivalent to about 19 percent of an adult’s recommended daily intake (RDI) of calories. This means two servings of milkshake would have fulfilled about half your daily energy consumption but without the nutrients. THE YOUNG FIZZIES
THE CAFFEINE ADDICTS
THE HAPPY ‘OWLS’
Weight Gain
You can put on weight by not drinking enough water as your body mistakes thirst as hunger. Water as Antioxidant
Americano (Kopi-O Kosong) 30 calories
Wine (Merlot) 23 calories
Energy Drink 160 calories
Cappuccino 73-75 calories
Draught 136 calories
Lemonade 30 -100 calories
Thai Coffee 115 -140 calories
Premium 186 calories
Fruit Juice 142 calories
Caffè Latte 217 calories
Regular 170 calories
Smoothies 172 calories
Mocha Frappuccino 280 calories
Sangria 150 calories
REFRESHING WATER WITHOUT THE CALORIES Clean and pure water is needed to help the body work more efficiently and to rid toxins. Also, it is also important that our filtered water tastes good and still contains the natural minerals that are beneficial to the body. Looking for a water filter and dispenser? We say the Wassertec DS-6 Mini Water Dispenser (desktop/ wall mounted) with the 4-stage filtration system is perfect. Enjoy clean and invigorating water at any time of the day with its simple-to-use, energy saving and economical features.
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Soft Drink 139 calories
Water (H20) is not only good for detoxifying the body, it is also an antioxidant. The hydrogen protects your body from free radicals and the best is still to drink clean filtered water.
review
love thy self Closing in towards the last two months of the year, November is the month to slow down and take a breather before all the festivities begin.
Me Time
Schedule some time off to make a craft or two. Enjoy quiet moments of reading, making a craft or listening to contemporary fusion music.
Memory Making for the Soul
Food for the Soul
72 november 2015
A HAKKA WOMAN’S SINGAPORE STORIES A Hakka Woman’s Singapore Stories ($34) by Lee Wei Ling reminds us of the quiet resilience and stoic commitment one has to family. In this book, we see the spirit of a doctor and a diehard Singaporean, and of course the other side Mr Lee Kuan Yew as she shares details of what goes on at home behind the public scrutiny. www.timesbookstores.com
THE MARTIAN The bestseller, The Martian ($18.95) by Andy Weir has the protagonist stranded on Mars by a duststorm. Escape into space with astronaut Mark Watney who forced his crew to leave him behind after his space suit was compromised. Witness the power of the human spirit and ingenuity as Mark struggles to survive in spite of minimal supplies and environmental challenges. www.singapore.kinokuniya.com
SCULPEY KEEPSAKE If you are welcoming baby, Sculpey Keepsake Clay and Frame Set ($32.24) is the perfect way to capture a special memory or time. Its soft, pliable, White Keepsake Clay, makes it easy to get a clear hand, foot or even a paw print with step-by-step instructions. Also included are a silver frame, detail tool, photo mat and clear pane to protect your photo. Makes a perfect gift for expecting parents or new grandparents!
Têteà-tête
Turn up the heat with flaming hot alluring new recipes and succulent bites. Up the exotic factor on date night with the Caribbean flavourful and rustic coastal delights. These are sure to leave you craving for more.
NANDO’S With Nando’s newly improved tantalising hot favourites, your taste buds can rejoice! Taking centre stage is Nando’s Choice Burger (On Its Own-$16.90, +1 Regular Side-$18.90, +2 Regular Sides-$19.90) with a premium-cut PERi-PERi chicken breast flame-grilled to sizzling perfection. Grilled Chicken Cataplana with seasonal vegetables, spicy rice and cataplana sauce is a must-try.
Music for the Soul
Sc’s recommendation • Have It Your Way – 10 wings in a variety
toh Tze Chin Award-winning composer-pianist Tze has created music for films, contemporary dance, animation, documentaries and many other works. His latest album Land with No Sun reverberates the rhythmic dance of the earth with modern musical interpretation while Stories from Wonderland remains a classic ensemble favourite. www.tzetoh.org
of PERi-PERi flavours; Lemon & Herb, Mild, Hot, or a daring Extra Hot? ($24.90) • Chicken Pita – Toasted pita stuffed with tender chicken strips, crispy veggie salad and creamy tangy whip ($11.90) • Espetada Carnival – Flamed-grilled PERi-
PERi thighs, stuffed with feta and parsley, skewered with mixed peppers ($19.90) www.nandos.com.sg
SEA SALT CARIBBEAN DELI This deli brings you the authentic taste of the Caribbean and Latin America. Dive into the flavours well-loved by the people of the Dominican Republic, the magnificent countries of South America, and the rest of the lovely isles of the Caribbean Sea and Mexican dishes, such as Burritos, Quesadillas, Tacos and Nachos. Also, be sure to try their beautiful delectable desserts and special cocktails, beers and wines. sc’s recommendation • Sous Vide Beef – Tender
beef (Rib-eye) slow cooked for 16 hours ($18) • Yarou (pronounced Ja-Ro-Ah)
– A platter of pulled pork, roast chicken and roast beef served with a side of roasted roots; potato, pumpkin and carrot ($20) • Fish and Chips – Choice of fish; grilled salmon, battered dory or Halibut with assorted chips ($18)
200 Turf Club Road , #02-K38 to 40 PasarBella @ The Grandstand Bukit Timah Singapore 287994 Tel: 6466 0798
73 november 2015
JANET JACKSON Janet Jackson’s new release Janet Unbreakable starts with “Unbreakable”. This is also the first title of a song her brother, Michael used in his final album in 2009 before his death. There is Michael undertone throughout the record due to the familiar high chorus that closely resembles his style. www.janetjackson.com
NOVEMBER 2015 ISSUE 168
Animal Planet
Science Whizz
Cool Stuff
Share with us a photo of you and your family on a memorable trip and present it with a copy of
P/S‌ My Pals and Secrets Issue 4 at Plaza Singapura to redeem gifts.
Refer to page 31 for details.
NOVEMBER 2015
Publisher Foo Mei Siah Associate Publisher Kelen Koh Operations Manager Emmeline Lee EDITORIAL Deputy Editor Juansa Arissa Cheng Writer Shaistah Munawar Contributors Dr Scott Poh, Ian Jemiz, Rachael Lim, Rachel Yohannan ART Creative Director Aris Lai Senior Designer Geraldine Tan Designer Chan Fei Ching ADVERTISING & MARKETING Associate Business Director Esmond Seah Business Manager Porter Christopher Andre Executive (Marketing) Lim Chin Yee, Marshall Ang ONLINE & DIGITAL Deputy Manager Arissa Ha Senior Writer Venetia Sng Writer Chew Hui Ling For editorial matters, sc-ed@key-editions.com For advertising & marketing enquiries, enquiry@key-editions.com For subscription, subscription@key-editions.com Published by Key Editions Pte Ltd 20 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469277 Tel: 6445 3313 Fax: 6445 3373 Email: info@key-editions.com Business Registration No. 200005022G All materials printed within Singapore’s Child are Copyright 2007 © and protected under the Copyright Act. All rights reserved 2007.
MCI (P) 125/01/2015 Colour Separation & Printer: KHL Printing Co. Pte Ltd 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968 Tel: 6543 2222 Fax: 6545 3333 Distribution: Pansing Distribution Pte Ltd No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole by any means without the express and prior written permission of the Publisher and Copyright holder. Singapore’s Child will not be held responsible for any infringements of Copyright material in ar ticles submitted by contributors. While every care has been taken in the compilation of material for this publication, the Publisher is not liable in any way for errors, inaccuracies or omissions arising thereof and contained in the contents of the articles, advertisements, photographs or illustrations. All information published is correct at the time of printing. The views and opinions expressed in Singapore’s Child by writers and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor or the Publisher.
www.keyeditions.com
Contents 2
Best Toys
4
Movie Pick
6
Animal Word Hunt
8
Did You Know?
The best toys available in the market.
Meet the Disney/Pixar’s The Good Dinosaur.
See if you can solve the crossword puzzle!
Discover all the interesting facts about wind.
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DIY
12
Animal Planet
14 16
Make your own kite and pinmill.
Learn about the fighters, boxers, stranglers and stalkers.
What’s Up?
Science Centre Singapore’s smart learning centre.
Fun Guide
Things to look forward to in November.
18
Book Nook
20
Cool Stuff
22
Brain Teaser
23
Try These
24 26
Our favourite reads this month!
Check out the dinosaurs with unique horns.
Expand your mind with Dr Scott’s fun games.
Learn more about idioms related to body parts.
Science Whizz
Find out why cells are the starting point of living things.
When I Grow Up
Meet Benjamin Kheng and Sezairi Sezali.
ANIMAL WORD HUNT!
See if you can solve the crossword puzzle!
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8
2
4
7 6
3
5
Across 5. caterpillar 6. headgehog 7. pig 8. rabbit
2. The h belongs to the family of rodents and has become popular small house pets.
6. The h belongs to the spiny mammal family and resembles the porcupine.
3. The o is a cephalopod mollusk with eight sucker-bearing arms, a soft saclike body, strong beaklike jaws, and no internal shell.
7. The p is a domesticated mammal usually kept for its meat for food or skin for leather products. It is a hoofed omnivore sparse bristly hair and a flat snout for rooting in the soil.
4. The b is a large heavy mammal with thick hair, rudimentary feet, sharp claws and walks on the soles of the feet like a human.
6
Answers: Down 1. giraffe 2. hamster 3. octopus 4. bear
Down 1. The g is the tallest living terrestrial animal and an African even-toed ungulate mammal.
Across 5. The c is the wormlike young (larvae) of both the butterfly and or moth. After around two to three weeks, it builds itself into a cocoon where it remains a pupa for another two weeks after which the caterpillar then emerges having grown wings.
8. The r is a burrowing herbivorous mammal with long ears, long hind legs, and a short tail.
HEALTHY MATCH Match the words
1) Ap
rian
2) Avo
ape
3) Ban
ple
4) Du
cado
5) Gr
ana
Did You Know?
w W o l ind Blow B over all t he interes c s i D ting
How is wind harnessed? We can harness the wind’s energy using wind machines. The wind flows over the windmill blades mounted on a rotor causing it to lift or turn much like an airplane propeller. This effect is also called kinetic energy. The blades are connected to a driveshaft that turns a generator to make electricity. For utility-scale wind energy, large numbers of wind machines are built close together to form a wind farm.
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fac ts about wind!
Types of wind machines There are two types of modern wind machines. The Horizontal-Axis Wind Machine stands as tall as a 20-story building. They have three blades that span 200 feet across and are taller and wider so that they can capture more wind. These are the most common types of wind machines. The second type is the Vertical-Axis Wind Machine. It stands about 100 feet tall and is only 50 feet wide. They have only two blades and look something like a giant spinning eggbeater.
For thousands of years, people have harnessed the wind’s energy. People used the wind to sail their ships on the rivers and oceans. Then, windmills were built and used to grind wheat, corn, and other grains and later to pump water from wells and to cut wood in sawmills. Today, we continue to use wind energy to generate electricity.
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What causes wind?
What is wind?
Wind is caused by huge convection currents in the Earth’s atmosphere, driven by heat energy from the Sun. When air gets heated, the warm air rises allowing cooler air to sink. This is called convection current.
Wind is air in motion. The uneven heating of the earth’s surface makes the sun produce wind.
3 How is wind helpful to Earth?
d Flas or
h!
W
Wind is the fastest growing source of electricity in the world. It’s often one of the least expensive forms of renewable power available. Some experts say it can sometimes be the cheapest form of any kind of power. Generating power from the wind leaves no dangerous waste products behind. Best of all, its supply is unlimited.
How is wind measured?
Meteorologists use two main measurements to describe wind: direction and speed. Wind Direction – Wind direction is described by using the direction that the wind came from. For example, a southerly wind would blow from the south to the north. Wind direction is measured a number of ways including weather vanes, flags, and windsocks. Wind Speed – The speed of wind is measured in miles per hour or kilometres per hour. Scientists typically use a tool called an anemometer to measure the speed of the wind.
How do windmills work? Windmills work because they slow down the speed of the wind. The wind flows over the air foil shaped blades causing lift, like the effect on airplane wings, causing them to turn. The blades are connected to a drive shaft that turns an electric generator to produce electricity.
kinetic energy: the energy possessed by an object due to its movement meteorologists: specialised scientists who focus on some aspects of the atmosphere, and use scientific principles to observe, understand, explain or forecast how the earth’s atmosphere affects the earth and everyone on it windsocks: a truncated cloth cone mounted on a mast commonly used to show the direction of the wind harness: control and make use of (natural resources), especially to produce energy
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Animal Planet
, s r e x o B , s r e Fight Stranglers & Stalkers Learn more about some animals’ prowess!
The Boxers: Kangaroo Kangaroos are born with powerful hind legs, a long and strong tail and small front legs. They live in Eastern Australia in small groups called troops or herds. Fighting kangaroos kick their opponents and sometimes bite. Male kangaroos spend hours on a daily basis competing in mock battles, waiting and training for the chance to overturn an alpha male. Although their forelimbs are much smaller than their hind limbs, they have strong backs, shoulders and sharp claws. Kangaroos “box” by swatting each other in the face and chest and clinching. They wrestle by pushing each other backwards, which usually will result in one falling and subsequently retreating from the fight. In more serious fights, kangaroos will kick out both their legs at the same time while using their strong tails to support themselves. Thankfully, most of these boxing matches are more of a ritual than a real attempt to do harm.
The Stranglers: Python Although it is rare that pythons kill humans, it is not unheard of. Two sleeping boys were strangled to death by an African rock python that was more than 3 meters long in August 2013. As pythons are constrictors, they ‘squeeze’ the life out of their preys. These include lizards, caiman, monkeys and antelope. The strangulation by a python does not take long. Similar to the boas, pythons ambush their prey and then spring forward and strike at them while grabbing them with their teeth. After seizing their prey, they will then coil themselves tightly around it. On top of that, pythons kill with the intention to eat. They do not exert energy unless they are going to feed on what they are killing. Pythons defend themselves by biting and/or slithering away. The reticulated python, African rock python and big Burmese pythons are known to kill humans occasionally.
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The Fighters: Cape Buffalo The Cape buffalo, also known as African buffalo is the only member of the buffalo and cattle tribe that occurs naturally in Africa. Female buffalos form large herds, up to 1,000 strong and they are very protective of each other and their calves. Males are generally on their own or in small groups. They are one of the five most dangerous animals to hunt as it is known to kill over 200 people every year.
d Flas r o
h!
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Cape Buffalo will circle and stalk its prey and wait for the perfect moment to attack with its massive and thick horns, which serves as a ram. It is also capable of vengence and will turn aggressive when a calf from the herd is under attack. When wounded, it will turn very violent from an adrenaline boost which makes them oblivious to the pain.
mock: not the actual thing and it can refer to practice
The Stalker: Pumas Pumas are nocturnal and crepuscular, which makes them most active at dawn and dusk. They are agile, powerful and carnivorous cats that hunt by stalking and ambushing their prey. Pumas feed on ungulates, such as deer, horses, elk, cattle and sheep. They can eat any animal it can catch, even animals as large as a moose. They prefer habitats with dense underbrush and rocky areas for stalking but they can also live in open plains, coniferous and tropical forests, swamps and deserts. Pumas stalks their prey through bushes and trees and across rock ledges. When ready, they leap onto the backs of their prey and suffocates them by biting on their necks. When a large prey is killed, pumas will cover them with bush and return to feed over a period of days.
strangulation: situation or state where circulation of blood to part of the body is cut off by constriction coniferous: the evergreen shrubs or vegetation that are needle-leaved or scale-leaved with cone-like trees such as pine and fir
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Book Nook
1
Shelf Help The best new stories to inspire young minds.
2
1) The Magic School Bus Presents: The Rain Forest
2) Musical Adventures with Quek Quek
By Scholastic
By Quek Ling Kiong
Explore the world’s most interesting ecosystem with Ms Frizzle! The Magic School Bus will take you on a tour of the most beautiful and deadly rain forests on Earth. You’ll learn all about the canopy and the unusual creatures that live there. Packed with incredible photos and amazing facts about rain forests and their plant and animal life, you are sure to enjoy this book!
What instruments make up the Chinese orchestra? Can you identify them and the sounds they make? Find the answers to these questions and more with this engaging series of four illustrated books and accompanying music CD, where children will be enlightened and entertained through a fantastical journey with adventurer Quek Quek. Retails at S$35 at major bookstores.
Retails at USD$6.99 (approx. S$9.80) at major bookstores.
3) Read & SING: ABC Nursery Rhymes By Scholastic
ABC Nursery Rhymes contains a mixture of classic nursery rhymes and brand new tunes that you can sing along to with the lyrics provided! What’s more, the story of the first song is beautifully-illustrated for enjoyable word-for-word singing with the music. Sing your way to easy learning with this collection of fun tunes.
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Retails at USD$8.99 (approx. S$12.60) at major bookstores.
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3
5
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4) The Immortal Nightingale
5) Jayden & Janelle
By Don Bosco
By Seema Dadlani-Ramchand and Harsha Dadlani-Dhalani
Sherlock Hong is not your average 15-year-old. Back in Singapore after completing his education in a boarding school in London, Sherlock has landed himself a spot in the secret organisation known as the International Order of Young Seekers. Eager to prove himself as a worthy member, Sherlock finds himself involved with a magician called William Fong who intends to bring a dead nightingale back to life. Join him in his journey to be considered beneficial to the organisation.
This story is based on two Singaporean siblings – Jayden and his younger sister, Janelle. Jayden is a mature fiveyear-old, who is responsible, intelligent and brotherly while Janelle is a playful three-year-old, who is curious, bubbly and lovable. Living in the heartlands of Marine Parade with their parents and grandparents, the series comprises six short stories which highlight Singaporean themes such as National Day, local food, public transport, racial harmony as well as familiar sights such as Gardens by the Bay and the HDB estates. Follow their adventures!
Retails at USD$6.24 (approx. S$8.64) at major bookstores.
Retails at S$29.90 at www.jaydenandjanelle.sg
6) The Big Wish By Brandon Robshaw
If you had a million wishes, what would you do with them? Be careful of what you wish for! This funny and imaginative plot of Sam’s a million wishes goes blipping with adventurous, at times nerve-wrecking roller-coaster ride into the unknown and of course, unplanned! BLIP! Retails at £5.59 (approx. S$7.74) at major bookstores.
19
Brain Teaser
Expand Your Mind
Dr Scott wants you to stretch your minds with these fun brain teasers.
1
Find five consecutive numbers below that total 22
7396413793541765 Which set of 4 numbers is the odd one out? 5133
3527
6895
How many minutes is it before 12 noon, if it was twice as many minutes past 9am 48 minutes ago? Answer:
22
5261
7768
Answers: (1) 93541
3
4572
(2) 3527 is the odd one odd. For 5261, 5 + 2 = 6 + 1. For 9678, 9 + 6 = 7 + 8 Hence, the sum of the first two numbers is equal to the sum of the second two numbers.
9678
(3) 44 minutes 12 noon less 44 minutes = 11.16 11.16 less 48 minutes = 10.28 9 a.m. plus 88 minutes (44 x 2) = 10.28
2
Try These
Body Idioms
There are many popular idioms that include the human body to describe situations, actions and feelings.
Complete the sentence with the right words from this list.
eye stomach leg skin shoulder
1
When another person is trying to trick or tease one, one says, “John is pulling my
4
When one is being ignored or rejected by another, one says, “I got the cold from Jasmine after
.”
angering her.”
2
When one is trying to pay attention to something, one says, “I am keeping an on the bag of valuables.”
5
When one feels irritated with and bothered by another, one says “My neighbour is beginning to get under my with her inconsiderate loud music.”
for a fight once John reported the bully incident. Answers: 1. leg 2. eye 3. stomach 4. shoulder 5. skin
3
The bully acted very tough towards John but, in the end, didn’t have the
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