Recently, a friend asked me for the contact number of Connor's swim coach. I replied gleefully, "It's Dear Hubby!" While he's certainly a very affordable coach (just needs dinner cooked for him after a lesson), I wouldn't really recommend him. Just ask Connor and all the dunkings he'd endured en route to learning how to swim. I used to avoid going down to the pool with them when Connor was learning as it broke my heart to see my little boy going under so many times. His methods work though as Connor is really adept in the water now, he's more seal than human sometimes!
This post is for you mums and dads who prefer a more conventional approach. Some of the kids at our condo have swim coaches who come to our condo pool for lessons. Most are on a one-to-one basis but I've seen a guy who takes 3 children in a group at a time.
The teachers bring all the props: the swim noodles, the kick boards, various toys. All you have to do is turn up in your swim gear and goggles. Children are taught to go underwater, correct kick techniques and how to stay afloat in water. It's all about getting them used to being in the water. A lesson usually lasts about 45 minutes. If they are very, very young obviously you'll have to be in the water with them. But the kids in my condo are 2yo and older so mums just stay on the side and shout encouragement.
The younger they start, the better it is. Connor started at 3 months or so with Dear Hubby. Some classes start from months old when babies still haven't lost their feel for the water. Remember, they were in fluid for 9 months prior to birth! Very young babies instinctively hold their breath when dunked underwater, it's a reflex they lose as they grow older.
Swim lessons alone don't guarantee a kid can swim. A 5yo in our units has been taking lessons for a year and still can't swim as well as Connor because he's rarely in the pool. We're down at the pool almost daily. The key here is to let your kids splash about as much as they can in between lessons so that they get used to the pool.
The mum I spoke to paid RM90 per session for her 2yo so I guess RM90 to RM100++ is the standard charge.
These are some numbers I got off a mummy forum so you can give them a call. Ask for trial lessons before you sign up for a whole course. I've never called any of them so I can't vouch for any of them. They're just some contacts to get you started and I know swim lessons are a popular activity for many kids who live in condo units with a pool.
Have fun!
Sam +6012-696 6226
Jack +6013-392 2878
Marcus +6012-377 1625
Showing posts with label Kuala Lumpur. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kuala Lumpur. Show all posts
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Friday, August 17, 2012
Dentists in Kuala Lumpur: Damansara Heights Dental Centre
Today was Connor's 2nd dental appointment with Dr Larry.
Our first visit was six months ago. The dental centre is located in a small row of shops (end shop is Secret Recipe) next to SK Bukit Damansara.
Mindful of our last visit when Connor had refused to co-operate, I was much better prepared this time around. I had actually gotten our appointment date mixed up so I had turned up on Monday only to be told it was today instead. The clinic has a children's play area so I had let Connor play there for about 10 minutes instead of leaving immediately, thinking it would help him get used to the place.
It helped! Connor was pleased to see the place again and it was no longer Strange New Place but Fun Dentist Play Area to him.
I had also prepped him for the visit, reminding him for days before that we were due a dental check and that the dentist would help him have healthy teeth. We also practised lying down and opening our mouths for a pretend check.
Dr Larry is good with kids. He has a kids' booster cushion for them to sit on in the dentists' chair and the nurse always gives out a sheet of stickers after the check-up is over. He doesn't dive straight into a check but calms them by showing them a model of their mouth and gets them to count the teeth and pretend to brush them before asking them to open their mouth.
We even succeeded in getting Connor's teeth polished! First he showed Connor the tool he would be using. Then he demonstrated on Connor's nail what it felt like and we all assured Connor that it was ticklish and fun. Then into the mouth it went!
After that was done, the dentist presented Connor with a sheet of Thomas stickers. Those are actually stickers I'd brought and passed earlier to the receptionist. The dentist also gives out a sheet of stickers to all kids but I thought Thomas stickers would seem like a bigger reward to my little train engineer so brought my own.
Very pleased with how today went. I'm very keen to get him used to dental visits so we started him off early, his first visit to the dentist was when he was 2+ yo. We've only recently switched to Dr Larry purely as he's closer to us and easier parking to be found around his clinic. So far so good and I'm happy!
Click HERE for more info on the clinic.
Damansara Heights Dental Centre
Tel: +603-2093 0309
(We paid RM50 for consultation and RM130 for polishing)
Note: For some reason, Google Maps shows the clinic to be in a different location, much further along the road. It it actually right round the corner from SK Bukit Damansara, same row as Secret Recipe. Secret Recipe does show up in the right location on Google Maps, so just follow that if you aren't sure of how to get there.
Our first visit was six months ago. The dental centre is located in a small row of shops (end shop is Secret Recipe) next to SK Bukit Damansara.
Mindful of our last visit when Connor had refused to co-operate, I was much better prepared this time around. I had actually gotten our appointment date mixed up so I had turned up on Monday only to be told it was today instead. The clinic has a children's play area so I had let Connor play there for about 10 minutes instead of leaving immediately, thinking it would help him get used to the place.
It helped! Connor was pleased to see the place again and it was no longer Strange New Place but Fun Dentist Play Area to him.
I had also prepped him for the visit, reminding him for days before that we were due a dental check and that the dentist would help him have healthy teeth. We also practised lying down and opening our mouths for a pretend check.
Dr Larry is good with kids. He has a kids' booster cushion for them to sit on in the dentists' chair and the nurse always gives out a sheet of stickers after the check-up is over. He doesn't dive straight into a check but calms them by showing them a model of their mouth and gets them to count the teeth and pretend to brush them before asking them to open their mouth.
We even succeeded in getting Connor's teeth polished! First he showed Connor the tool he would be using. Then he demonstrated on Connor's nail what it felt like and we all assured Connor that it was ticklish and fun. Then into the mouth it went!
After that was done, the dentist presented Connor with a sheet of Thomas stickers. Those are actually stickers I'd brought and passed earlier to the receptionist. The dentist also gives out a sheet of stickers to all kids but I thought Thomas stickers would seem like a bigger reward to my little train engineer so brought my own.
Very pleased with how today went. I'm very keen to get him used to dental visits so we started him off early, his first visit to the dentist was when he was 2+ yo. We've only recently switched to Dr Larry purely as he's closer to us and easier parking to be found around his clinic. So far so good and I'm happy!
Click HERE for more info on the clinic.
Damansara Heights Dental Centre
Tel: +603-2093 0309
(We paid RM50 for consultation and RM130 for polishing)
Note: For some reason, Google Maps shows the clinic to be in a different location, much further along the road. It it actually right round the corner from SK Bukit Damansara, same row as Secret Recipe. Secret Recipe does show up in the right location on Google Maps, so just follow that if you aren't sure of how to get there.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Connor says: Drive straight
Connor has been very trying these days.
As a result of all the crime that's going on in Kuala Lumpur, I've been hesitant to take my little boy shopping. Connor loves shopping. No, actually Connor loves toy shopping. His favourite shops are the various Toys R Us outlets around town and Choo Choo Train in Bangsar Shopping Centre. He's not so happy when Mummy tries to take him into Zara and The Kitchen Shop.
He'll ask "Go shopping, Mummy?" every day after school and I usually refuse. Last week, he kept repeating his request in the car as I drove home. In an effort to distract him, I sang out, "Look at how Mummy's driving! First to the left! Then to the right! Then left again!"
"MUMMY!" he wailed. "Drive straight! And then we go shopping!"
As a result of all the crime that's going on in Kuala Lumpur, I've been hesitant to take my little boy shopping. Connor loves shopping. No, actually Connor loves toy shopping. His favourite shops are the various Toys R Us outlets around town and Choo Choo Train in Bangsar Shopping Centre. He's not so happy when Mummy tries to take him into Zara and The Kitchen Shop.
He'll ask "Go shopping, Mummy?" every day after school and I usually refuse. Last week, he kept repeating his request in the car as I drove home. In an effort to distract him, I sang out, "Look at how Mummy's driving! First to the left! Then to the right! Then left again!"
"MUMMY!" he wailed. "Drive straight! And then we go shopping!"
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
The Expat-Socialite Wife Diary: Do I fit in?
Expat-Socialite Wife 1: So where do you girls go for lunch?
Expat-Socialite Wife 2: Well, here in Bangsar... I like La Bodega... Chilli's if the kids are with me...
Expat-Socialite Wife 3: Oh, Alexis! Plan B or Ben's also not bad.
Expat-Socialite Wife 1: Where do you go for lunch, Mrs TM?
Me: Oh, I go to the hawker centre on top of the car park near Bangsar Village 1! You know, it was called Jolly Green or something before? Anyway... I can ta pau the chap fan for less than RM5! Rice, meat, vege and tempeh!
(Complete silence and blank looks from all other wives)
Epic.
Fail.
Totally.
Expat-Socialite Wife 2: Well, here in Bangsar... I like La Bodega... Chilli's if the kids are with me...
Expat-Socialite Wife 3: Oh, Alexis! Plan B or Ben's also not bad.
Expat-Socialite Wife 1: Where do you go for lunch, Mrs TM?
Me: Oh, I go to the hawker centre on top of the car park near Bangsar Village 1! You know, it was called Jolly Green or something before? Anyway... I can ta pau the chap fan for less than RM5! Rice, meat, vege and tempeh!
(Complete silence and blank looks from all other wives)
Epic.
Fail.
Totally.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Mothercare Malaysia: ELC Playtime with Aunty Nadia
For those of you with little ones, you might want to check out the ELC Playtime with Aunty Nadia. They run the playtimes at their KLCC and Bangsar Mothercare outlets.
We attended the one in KLCC during Connor's last school holidays. I'm sure it was fun but we never got to find out because about 5 minutes into the playgroup, my son decided he was too cool and macho to sit around on a flower-printed mat and threw a fuss. I decided to leave as it wasn't fair to Aunty Nadia and the other parents.
They had an intro session where parents and children introduced themselves. Our group was very mixed - it had an English family, a Nigerian family, a Kazakh family, a Malaysian family who had just returned from UK (their son still declared himself English! LOL) and us. They have pics and videos posted on the Mothercare Malaysia FB site so you can see what they do. There's singing, arts and crafts, make-believe play... all good fun!
As for the age range... well, the oldest child there was 6 and the youngest was 18 months old. Parents are required to stay with their child for the duration of the playtime.
And you know what's the best part? It's FREE!
Check out the playgroup at:
ELC Playtime, Mothercare Suria KLCC
Every Tuesday, 11am - 12 noon
ELC Playtime, Mothercare Bangsar Shopping Center
Every Friday, 11am - 12 noon
Have fun!
We attended the one in KLCC during Connor's last school holidays. I'm sure it was fun but we never got to find out because about 5 minutes into the playgroup, my son decided he was too cool and macho to sit around on a flower-printed mat and threw a fuss. I decided to leave as it wasn't fair to Aunty Nadia and the other parents.
They had an intro session where parents and children introduced themselves. Our group was very mixed - it had an English family, a Nigerian family, a Kazakh family, a Malaysian family who had just returned from UK (their son still declared himself English! LOL) and us. They have pics and videos posted on the Mothercare Malaysia FB site so you can see what they do. There's singing, arts and crafts, make-believe play... all good fun!
As for the age range... well, the oldest child there was 6 and the youngest was 18 months old. Parents are required to stay with their child for the duration of the playtime.
And you know what's the best part? It's FREE!
Check out the playgroup at:
ELC Playtime, Mothercare Suria KLCC
Every Tuesday, 11am - 12 noon
ELC Playtime, Mothercare Bangsar Shopping Center
Every Friday, 11am - 12 noon
Have fun!
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Monday, April 2, 2012
Geronimo!
Connor has finally realised that it IS fun to jump into the adults' pool. It took so much coaxing and encouragement on my part before he would but I did think it was very brave of Connor to jump into the pool as the water there is as deep as he is tall. I started out with pulling him gently into the water. Then we graduated to him jumping into my waiting arms. Once he was comfortable with that, I started stepping back a little each time he jumped until I was too far for him to touch when he hit the water.
Once he realised that it is actually fun and no, he wouldn't sink to the bottom and stay there, there was no stopping our little boy.
We were so proud of him and he was really pleased with himself too because he knew that he'd just climbed up another level.
Photos taken 1 April 2012.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Eating Out: Wantan Mee stall at Publika Food Court, Solaris Dutamas
I love wantan mee. So does Connor. And the wantan mee stall at the Publika Food Court serves up a rather delicious plate of wantan mee.
Unfortunately, I'll never taste it again.
This is because I'll never, ever, ever, EVER hand over my (husband's) hard-earned money to such snobbish, rude people.
The first time we were there, the food court was nearly empty. I ordered wantan mee to share with Connor. The service I got was... oh wait, no - what service? The guy who dished up the wantan mee did not say a single word to me. He had on a surly expression as if he was serving time behind the stall. I forgot about him when I had a taste because the wantan mee was really good.
The second, and last, time I was there was on a busy weekend. There were people standing in front the stall clutching their paper receipts. They'd paid up and were waiting for their meals to be ready. I made my way to the front. There was no one manning the counter, everyone was holed up in the cooking area. I waited a while, then called out "Hello!" to get their attention.
One woman came out. I thought she was going to take my order. No. She just pulled this muka masam and busied herself filling little containers with the green chillies. Then she went to slice the char siew sloooooowly. Man, I'd never seen a wantan mee seller slice char siew that slowly in my life. No wonder they had so many orders backlogged. I spent my childhood in a kopitiam and our wantan mee man could chop up an entire pig's worth of char siew before you could say "Oink!"
I called out to her, "Hello... take order?" She completely ignored me and went back to the kitchen area.
That did it. I turned and walked off.
All she had to do was say "Can you wait a while, we're quite busy now? I will take your order later." or something to that effect and I would have waited quite happily. Not a single word.
You can keep your bloody wantan mee. There are a million other wantan mee stalls in the world. However, if you like your wantan mee delicious and served with a HUGE dose of bad temper, by all means, patronise their stall.
I won't.
Unfortunately, I'll never taste it again.
This is because I'll never, ever, ever, EVER hand over my (husband's) hard-earned money to such snobbish, rude people.
The first time we were there, the food court was nearly empty. I ordered wantan mee to share with Connor. The service I got was... oh wait, no - what service? The guy who dished up the wantan mee did not say a single word to me. He had on a surly expression as if he was serving time behind the stall. I forgot about him when I had a taste because the wantan mee was really good.
The second, and last, time I was there was on a busy weekend. There were people standing in front the stall clutching their paper receipts. They'd paid up and were waiting for their meals to be ready. I made my way to the front. There was no one manning the counter, everyone was holed up in the cooking area. I waited a while, then called out "Hello!" to get their attention.
One woman came out. I thought she was going to take my order. No. She just pulled this muka masam and busied herself filling little containers with the green chillies. Then she went to slice the char siew sloooooowly. Man, I'd never seen a wantan mee seller slice char siew that slowly in my life. No wonder they had so many orders backlogged. I spent my childhood in a kopitiam and our wantan mee man could chop up an entire pig's worth of char siew before you could say "Oink!"
I called out to her, "Hello... take order?" She completely ignored me and went back to the kitchen area.
That did it. I turned and walked off.
All she had to do was say "Can you wait a while, we're quite busy now? I will take your order later." or something to that effect and I would have waited quite happily. Not a single word.
You can keep your bloody wantan mee. There are a million other wantan mee stalls in the world. However, if you like your wantan mee delicious and served with a HUGE dose of bad temper, by all means, patronise their stall.
I won't.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Hair Salons in Kuala Lumpur: Grace Salon, Bangsar Village
Why is it that every time I find a stylist I like, he/she runs away to some Great Unknown Hair Salon?
The last time I was at Grace Salon, I had Steve who did a good job. I don't ask for much. I never bring in a picture of Jennifer Aniston and declare, "Give me the Rachel!" Just make me look presentable. And make my hair child-proof, housework-proof, easy to manage because I haven't got much time to do my hair before the school run in the morning. Steve did that the last time. So imagine my horror when I called up this week to book an appointment with him only to discover he'd run away. ARGH.
They suggested I try another stylist called Calvin. Okay lor.... Calvin has a stylo-mylo hairstyle - shaved close at the sides but long and floppy on top. I could never get away with hair like that, I would look SO weird. I do like it when a stylist has very fashion forward hair. After all, you're in the business right? I wouldn't want you to have Donald Trump combover style.
He looked critically at my long unruly mane (hadn't had a cut for 2 months) and suggested he trimmed it to shoulder length. After a few more tsk-tsk moments, he suggested a fringe. Fringe? You mean hair that flops into my eyes each time I'm cooking dinner for my kid and husband? The type that blinds me when I'm doing the dishes? He said soothingly, "It will give you volume." Volume? Ah, the Magic Word. Okay, we're on!
An hour later, having had my mane cut, blown dry and dressed with L'oreal serum, I thought I looked ab fab, dah-leeng. Like, totally. I wanted to blow air kisses to my reflection but thought the other customers might think it a bit too much. I paid up and walked out feeling so gorgeous I would have signed up for a Miss Universe pageant if they had been looking for candidates outside Grace Salon.
I was very pleased with the cut and with Calvin. Of course now I still look absolutely perfect as the blow-dry is still intact. Wait a couple of days later when I've had to do my own blow-dry and I'll be able to assess the cut better. But for now... how happy was I with the cut? Well, let's say I was hoping all day to bump into ALL my ex-boyfriends so that I could flick my gorgeous hair about and make them bloody regret they'd ever let me go. Look at what a stunning trophy wife you could have had. HAH.
Staff is friendly and the girl who washes your hair never ever scratches your head. I hate it when they do... hello? Want me to bleed all over or what? What I really like about them is that they do not push services or products. It's such a turn-off when a stylist keeps trying to get you to do this treatment and that treatment. The last time I had one with them, it was because I asked for it and they recommended me a few treatments at different price points and explained the difference but did not push for me to go for the most expensive one. Yesterday's cut cost RM105. Okay, that was pricey. But I have problematic tresses. Honest.
Grace Salon,
20 & 21, First Floor,
Bangsar Village 2,
Jalan Telawi Satu.
03-2287 6323/8323
If you're asking for Calvin, please note that his off day is Tuesday. (Er... I dunno if it's spelt Kelvin, I just automatically thought it would be spelt the way I've written it)
The last time I was at Grace Salon, I had Steve who did a good job. I don't ask for much. I never bring in a picture of Jennifer Aniston and declare, "Give me the Rachel!" Just make me look presentable. And make my hair child-proof, housework-proof, easy to manage because I haven't got much time to do my hair before the school run in the morning. Steve did that the last time. So imagine my horror when I called up this week to book an appointment with him only to discover he'd run away. ARGH.
They suggested I try another stylist called Calvin. Okay lor.... Calvin has a stylo-mylo hairstyle - shaved close at the sides but long and floppy on top. I could never get away with hair like that, I would look SO weird. I do like it when a stylist has very fashion forward hair. After all, you're in the business right? I wouldn't want you to have Donald Trump combover style.
He looked critically at my long unruly mane (hadn't had a cut for 2 months) and suggested he trimmed it to shoulder length. After a few more tsk-tsk moments, he suggested a fringe. Fringe? You mean hair that flops into my eyes each time I'm cooking dinner for my kid and husband? The type that blinds me when I'm doing the dishes? He said soothingly, "It will give you volume." Volume? Ah, the Magic Word. Okay, we're on!
An hour later, having had my mane cut, blown dry and dressed with L'oreal serum, I thought I looked ab fab, dah-leeng. Like, totally. I wanted to blow air kisses to my reflection but thought the other customers might think it a bit too much. I paid up and walked out feeling so gorgeous I would have signed up for a Miss Universe pageant if they had been looking for candidates outside Grace Salon.
I was very pleased with the cut and with Calvin. Of course now I still look absolutely perfect as the blow-dry is still intact. Wait a couple of days later when I've had to do my own blow-dry and I'll be able to assess the cut better. But for now... how happy was I with the cut? Well, let's say I was hoping all day to bump into ALL my ex-boyfriends so that I could flick my gorgeous hair about and make them bloody regret they'd ever let me go. Look at what a stunning trophy wife you could have had. HAH.
Staff is friendly and the girl who washes your hair never ever scratches your head. I hate it when they do... hello? Want me to bleed all over or what? What I really like about them is that they do not push services or products. It's such a turn-off when a stylist keeps trying to get you to do this treatment and that treatment. The last time I had one with them, it was because I asked for it and they recommended me a few treatments at different price points and explained the difference but did not push for me to go for the most expensive one. Yesterday's cut cost RM105. Okay, that was pricey. But I have problematic tresses. Honest.
Grace Salon,
20 & 21, First Floor,
Bangsar Village 2,
Jalan Telawi Satu.
03-2287 6323/8323
If you're asking for Calvin, please note that his off day is Tuesday. (Er... I dunno if it's spelt Kelvin, I just automatically thought it would be spelt the way I've written it)
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Free Kids' Activities in KL: Soccer Time!
Quite frankly, I am hoping my little boy will be sporty like his father and grandfather. Or more accurately, I am hoping my little boy will grow up to earn gazillions of dollars kicking a ball around and he will buy Mummy and Daddy a lovely mansion and a Porsche each. Oh and about ten gazillion Chanel bags too!
For now, we're just attending football playgroups. We go to one in Mont Kiara Damai on Wednesday afternoons, starts at 4:30pm till about 5pm-ish. It's very informal, kids and parents just show up to kick a ball about. It's held in the tennis courts but will move to the badminton courts if the weather's bad. The lady running the group is a proper coach and she does teach some basic skills but it's mainly about having fun, letting the kids have a run around and socialising. My 3yo was too excited to listen to any instructions but I noticed the older kids were responding better and did follow the drills.
If you can't make it on Wednesdays, there's another football group over at The Club, Bukit Utama. That's on Monday and Friday afternoons, starting from 5pm. Both groups are for children aged 3-5.
Both playgroups are free and open to all. Bring your own ball if you can, it doesn't have to be a proper football. A ball of any size will do. Make sure your child wears shoes, once again, it doesn't have to be proper football boots. Bring loads of water, some snacks if you wish and wear comfy clothing and shoes as you may have to run after your little one.
We had fun, Connor enjoyed the run-around but after a while, mistook the condo for his school friend's condo and insisted on "...I want to go W's house." and stopped kicking the ball about. I had fun, met an old friend there with her two boys and made a new one.
See you guys there!
For now, we're just attending football playgroups. We go to one in Mont Kiara Damai on Wednesday afternoons, starts at 4:30pm till about 5pm-ish. It's very informal, kids and parents just show up to kick a ball about. It's held in the tennis courts but will move to the badminton courts if the weather's bad. The lady running the group is a proper coach and she does teach some basic skills but it's mainly about having fun, letting the kids have a run around and socialising. My 3yo was too excited to listen to any instructions but I noticed the older kids were responding better and did follow the drills.
If you can't make it on Wednesdays, there's another football group over at The Club, Bukit Utama. That's on Monday and Friday afternoons, starting from 5pm. Both groups are for children aged 3-5.
Both playgroups are free and open to all. Bring your own ball if you can, it doesn't have to be a proper football. A ball of any size will do. Make sure your child wears shoes, once again, it doesn't have to be proper football boots. Bring loads of water, some snacks if you wish and wear comfy clothing and shoes as you may have to run after your little one.
We had fun, Connor enjoyed the run-around but after a while, mistook the condo for his school friend's condo and insisted on "...I want to go W's house." and stopped kicking the ball about. I had fun, met an old friend there with her two boys and made a new one.
See you guys there!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Free Kids Activities in KL: Wheelie Sundays at Publika, Solaris Dutamas
Looking for something to do on Sunday mornings for the whole family?
Try out Wheelie Sundays at Publika. They close off the inner roads of the complex from 7-10am so that people can enjoy walking or riding safely. Just pack the whole family (and bikes) and get ready for some fun!
Don't have a bike? No worries, you can rent one at the event. They have kids' and adult bikes for rent.
We went along one Sunday with Connor's Thomas bike stashed in the boot of the car. We left Daddy at home, it was my way of giving him some time alone so that he can listen to all his music. Our musical tastes don't really match and I really do prefer to be out of the house when he plays some of his more erm... experimental stuff.
If you're hungry, they sell breakfast and snacks at the event. Otherwise, you can always pop into the many eateries in Publika for a bite after the ride.
We missed 2 Sundays now because Connor woke up too late. He's our little alarm clock, you see... so if he doesn't wake up, Daddy and Mummy don't wake up either! Maybe this Sunday.... with Connor's new scooter!
See you there!
Try out Wheelie Sundays at Publika. They close off the inner roads of the complex from 7-10am so that people can enjoy walking or riding safely. Just pack the whole family (and bikes) and get ready for some fun!
Don't have a bike? No worries, you can rent one at the event. They have kids' and adult bikes for rent.
We went along one Sunday with Connor's Thomas bike stashed in the boot of the car. We left Daddy at home, it was my way of giving him some time alone so that he can listen to all his music. Our musical tastes don't really match and I really do prefer to be out of the house when he plays some of his more erm... experimental stuff.
If you're hungry, they sell breakfast and snacks at the event. Otherwise, you can always pop into the many eateries in Publika for a bite after the ride.
We missed 2 Sundays now because Connor woke up too late. He's our little alarm clock, you see... so if he doesn't wake up, Daddy and Mummy don't wake up either! Maybe this Sunday.... with Connor's new scooter!
See you there!
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Australian International School KL Open Day, 6 Mar
I just found out from Time Out KL the Australian International School is having its Open Day on 6 Mar 2012. This is a preview for their junior school (age 3-10). It says on Time Out KL that it starts at 10am and will end at 11:30am. I thought that's quite a short time to be doing a preview as we started ours at Alice Smith at 11am and only left past 1pm. AISM is not on our list of schools for Connor simply because we wanted Connor to study a UK curriculum in case we have to return to the UK to live and it would be an easy transition for him.
Contact details:
Australian International School,
22 Jalan Anggerik
The Mines Resort City,
Sri Kembangan
Tel: 03-8943 0622
Click HERE for their website.
Contact details:
Australian International School,
22 Jalan Anggerik
The Mines Resort City,
Sri Kembangan
Tel: 03-8943 0622
Click HERE for their website.
Help for Expat Mums (and Dads!): ibu on Facebook
For mums who are considering moving to Kuala Lumpur, I would highly recommend you join the Ibu Family Resource Group in KL. Ibu means mother in Malay. This is a support group for mums (and dads are welcome too!). What you'll find is a network of expat and local mums, playgroups you can join, Parents' Night Out events and many more.
I am not a member but I have joined their group on Facebook. Everyone has been really helpful on FB. You can ask anything you like e.g. where to find a good paediatrician for your children, recommendations on schools, help with asthma/sleep problems, where to buy furniture, maids recommendation... friendly mums will chip in with useful info. There is also a separate group linked to it where you can sell/buy used baby/kids' stuff.
I remember being a new mum all alone in Jakarta and if not for the help of my friendly neighbour, I would have been lost. When we moved back to KL, Connor was 14 months old and I was bored to tears sitting at home alone with him. I found out about ibu and attended various playgroups organised by ibu and had a lot of fun meeting other people.
Do check them out if you are thinking of a move to Kuala Lumpur.
I am not a member but I have joined their group on Facebook. Everyone has been really helpful on FB. You can ask anything you like e.g. where to find a good paediatrician for your children, recommendations on schools, help with asthma/sleep problems, where to buy furniture, maids recommendation... friendly mums will chip in with useful info. There is also a separate group linked to it where you can sell/buy used baby/kids' stuff.
I remember being a new mum all alone in Jakarta and if not for the help of my friendly neighbour, I would have been lost. When we moved back to KL, Connor was 14 months old and I was bored to tears sitting at home alone with him. I found out about ibu and attended various playgroups organised by ibu and had a lot of fun meeting other people.
Do check them out if you are thinking of a move to Kuala Lumpur.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Alice Smith International School KL: Open Day, 29 Feb
Yesterday was the Open Day at the Primary campus of Alice Smith International School KL. The campus is located in a quiet leafy suburb near the old Istana (not the new one in Sri Hartamas).
Dear Hubby and I suited up for the occasion. As the fees for Reception year are in excess of RM10,000 per term (approx 2,000++ quid), we thought we should look like we could afford at least a term at the school. Hee...
I missed the turn-off to the school and for the first time in my life, did the Malaysian thing. I reversed back along the road to the turn-off. *facepalm* This was with Dear Hubby's encouragement. Don't try this anywhere else, I knew it would be ok doing it there as there is very little traffic and what traffic there was drove very slowly as there were many road bumps. The only good that came out of it is that now I know I can pass the UK driving test which has a section where you are required to reverse up a hill.
We were met by an admissions team member who explained the application and admissions process. She also talked about the fees, the all-important topic for most parents. Alice Smith is a non-profit school and all the money they need to run the school - paying salaries, maintenance, buying of materials, books, toys, games equipment - is generated solely by the fees paid. It teaches the UK curriculum which was why this school was on our list.
The Asst Principal for Pastoral Care, Mrs Alison Nadarajah, took us on a guided tour of the campus. She's a Brit who has lived in Malaysia for 20 years and I'm extremely impressed she's still retained her original accent. Unlike... you know... the Malaysian who goes to UK for a 10-day tour and suddenly comes back sounding like the Queen....
All I can say is - can *I* enrol in the school instead of Connor? The classrooms look bright and cheerful and very stimulating. We looked into a pre-school class (for children aged 3+) and they were having a show and tell session. They were all seated on a mat in front of the teacher and eager hands were raised during question time. That is something I definitely want to see. I am a product of the Malaysian school system and my instinct is to look at the floor when it is question time and pray I'm not called upon. That is not what I want for my son.
They have 2 pre-school classes and 5 Reception classes. Starting from Year 1 onwards, there are 5 classes per year with about 20 children in each class. There are about 800 children on the campus. I was very impressed by the discipline of the children. There was absolutely no shouting and screaming or mad running around and yet there was no head teacher walking about with a cane enforcing good behaviour. The environment was calm and friendly.
Each class is organised into groups of perhaps 5 children. They do their work in groups and teachers do their best to ensure each group consists of children of mixed abilities and backgrounds. There were plenty of creative materials and toys in the lower classes. In one Reception class, I noted at least 5 tables, each with a different theme. One had a space rocket and space toys, one had a castle and knights, one had a pirate ship and pirates, one had a garage, one had a dollhouse. Children were clearly encouraged to use their imagination and creativity. They were encouraged to think and not just sit down and memories times tables.
There is also serious work going on. The Reception children were working on phonics when we visited. One class was doing maths exercises on the computer. One more was busy doing arts and craft in groups. Alice Smith has a web-based homework and assignments site. Students use it to access their work and parents can check on it. Dear Hubby said "Well, no more 'The dog ate my homework!' excuses then!" They are also given homework diaries and parents are expected to check that daily.
They have 2 libraries on campus - one for Early Years and another for the older children. It's not like the staid libraries of my youth. These were bright and inviting. Books were placed at a height that is easily accessible for young children. There were cushions and bean bags alongside chairs and tables. There were also soft toys and other toys so you can use them to act out the scenes you'd just read.
The best part has to be the swimming pool. It's shallow, water level came no higher than the hip of the teacher standing in the pool. Swimming is compulsory. Sports is a big thing, students are sorted into 4 sports houses upon enrolment and I was absolutely delighted to hear that. There is a large playing field and a four-storey gym. I came from a school with a proud sporting history and remember many happy days cheering on my school team. I am glad to note Alice Smith has a similar emphasis on sports.
We met other teachers when we poked our heads into their classes. The older children were all in the school hall, having a singalong so the teachers had some free time. I noted they were pleased and proud to welcome visitors, they were happy to answer questions and show us the work their students had been doing. One class had a more traditional seating, everything was lined up. Their teacher explained she gave them a choice of sitting in circles or lines and the class voted for lines. One of the kids had said gleefully, "It feels more grown-up and it's like going back to the old days!" Thanks, kid. Now I feel wrinkly! Teachers are employed mainly from the UK on two-year contracts. Most stay at least 4-6 years and that's what you want, you don't want a school where teachers are constantly coming and going.
As for school lunch, you can either pack from home or order from the school cafe. The school cafe menu looks very impressive, a far cry from the mi sup and karipap of my school days. You can check out a sample of the menu on their website.
Now for the scary part - the school fees. You can check their website for a more comprehensive look at the fees so I'll just give termly fees for preschool (age 3+), Reception (age 4+) and Year 1 (age 5+) for a feel of what you'll be paying. Preschool costs RM8,420 per term, Reception RM,11855 and Year 1 RM12,450.
If you are an expat working here and the company is paying the school fees, please check with your company on their policy. Most companies will only bear the fees from Year 1 onwards. There is a hefty non-refundable enrolment fee of RM20,000 from Reception to Year 11 so bear that in mind when you are looking to enrol your child(ren). Tuition fees are inclusive of all books, materials and resources. From time to time, the children will have field trips which are paid for separately. If you are selected for say, choir or swim team and have to go to a meet, that is borne separately as well. If you prefer your child to take the bus to school, there are bus services to most areas in KL/Sgor which are popular with expats and you pay bus fares to the bus operators.
I was extremely impressed by the campus, by the staff, by the resources available to students, by the facilities. I was also impressed by the behaviour of the children. We did not see any broken toys anywhere, materials seemed well taken care of, some looked spanking new. Children were well-behaved and were participating in their classes. I can't wait to enrol myself... er.. I mean Connor.
What else can I say except... Bye-bye Birkin, Hello Alice Smith.
The Alice Smith School
2 Jalan Bellamy,
50460 KL
Tel: 03-2148 3674
Click HERE for their website
Dear Hubby and I suited up for the occasion. As the fees for Reception year are in excess of RM10,000 per term (approx 2,000++ quid), we thought we should look like we could afford at least a term at the school. Hee...
I missed the turn-off to the school and for the first time in my life, did the Malaysian thing. I reversed back along the road to the turn-off. *facepalm* This was with Dear Hubby's encouragement. Don't try this anywhere else, I knew it would be ok doing it there as there is very little traffic and what traffic there was drove very slowly as there were many road bumps. The only good that came out of it is that now I know I can pass the UK driving test which has a section where you are required to reverse up a hill.
We were met by an admissions team member who explained the application and admissions process. She also talked about the fees, the all-important topic for most parents. Alice Smith is a non-profit school and all the money they need to run the school - paying salaries, maintenance, buying of materials, books, toys, games equipment - is generated solely by the fees paid. It teaches the UK curriculum which was why this school was on our list.
The Asst Principal for Pastoral Care, Mrs Alison Nadarajah, took us on a guided tour of the campus. She's a Brit who has lived in Malaysia for 20 years and I'm extremely impressed she's still retained her original accent. Unlike... you know... the Malaysian who goes to UK for a 10-day tour and suddenly comes back sounding like the Queen....
All I can say is - can *I* enrol in the school instead of Connor? The classrooms look bright and cheerful and very stimulating. We looked into a pre-school class (for children aged 3+) and they were having a show and tell session. They were all seated on a mat in front of the teacher and eager hands were raised during question time. That is something I definitely want to see. I am a product of the Malaysian school system and my instinct is to look at the floor when it is question time and pray I'm not called upon. That is not what I want for my son.
They have 2 pre-school classes and 5 Reception classes. Starting from Year 1 onwards, there are 5 classes per year with about 20 children in each class. There are about 800 children on the campus. I was very impressed by the discipline of the children. There was absolutely no shouting and screaming or mad running around and yet there was no head teacher walking about with a cane enforcing good behaviour. The environment was calm and friendly.
Each class is organised into groups of perhaps 5 children. They do their work in groups and teachers do their best to ensure each group consists of children of mixed abilities and backgrounds. There were plenty of creative materials and toys in the lower classes. In one Reception class, I noted at least 5 tables, each with a different theme. One had a space rocket and space toys, one had a castle and knights, one had a pirate ship and pirates, one had a garage, one had a dollhouse. Children were clearly encouraged to use their imagination and creativity. They were encouraged to think and not just sit down and memories times tables.
There is also serious work going on. The Reception children were working on phonics when we visited. One class was doing maths exercises on the computer. One more was busy doing arts and craft in groups. Alice Smith has a web-based homework and assignments site. Students use it to access their work and parents can check on it. Dear Hubby said "Well, no more 'The dog ate my homework!' excuses then!" They are also given homework diaries and parents are expected to check that daily.
They have 2 libraries on campus - one for Early Years and another for the older children. It's not like the staid libraries of my youth. These were bright and inviting. Books were placed at a height that is easily accessible for young children. There were cushions and bean bags alongside chairs and tables. There were also soft toys and other toys so you can use them to act out the scenes you'd just read.
The best part has to be the swimming pool. It's shallow, water level came no higher than the hip of the teacher standing in the pool. Swimming is compulsory. Sports is a big thing, students are sorted into 4 sports houses upon enrolment and I was absolutely delighted to hear that. There is a large playing field and a four-storey gym. I came from a school with a proud sporting history and remember many happy days cheering on my school team. I am glad to note Alice Smith has a similar emphasis on sports.
We met other teachers when we poked our heads into their classes. The older children were all in the school hall, having a singalong so the teachers had some free time. I noted they were pleased and proud to welcome visitors, they were happy to answer questions and show us the work their students had been doing. One class had a more traditional seating, everything was lined up. Their teacher explained she gave them a choice of sitting in circles or lines and the class voted for lines. One of the kids had said gleefully, "It feels more grown-up and it's like going back to the old days!" Thanks, kid. Now I feel wrinkly! Teachers are employed mainly from the UK on two-year contracts. Most stay at least 4-6 years and that's what you want, you don't want a school where teachers are constantly coming and going.
As for school lunch, you can either pack from home or order from the school cafe. The school cafe menu looks very impressive, a far cry from the mi sup and karipap of my school days. You can check out a sample of the menu on their website.
Now for the scary part - the school fees. You can check their website for a more comprehensive look at the fees so I'll just give termly fees for preschool (age 3+), Reception (age 4+) and Year 1 (age 5+) for a feel of what you'll be paying. Preschool costs RM8,420 per term, Reception RM,11855 and Year 1 RM12,450.
If you are an expat working here and the company is paying the school fees, please check with your company on their policy. Most companies will only bear the fees from Year 1 onwards. There is a hefty non-refundable enrolment fee of RM20,000 from Reception to Year 11 so bear that in mind when you are looking to enrol your child(ren). Tuition fees are inclusive of all books, materials and resources. From time to time, the children will have field trips which are paid for separately. If you are selected for say, choir or swim team and have to go to a meet, that is borne separately as well. If you prefer your child to take the bus to school, there are bus services to most areas in KL/Sgor which are popular with expats and you pay bus fares to the bus operators.
I was extremely impressed by the campus, by the staff, by the resources available to students, by the facilities. I was also impressed by the behaviour of the children. We did not see any broken toys anywhere, materials seemed well taken care of, some looked spanking new. Children were well-behaved and were participating in their classes. I can't wait to enrol myself... er.. I mean Connor.
What else can I say except... Bye-bye Birkin, Hello Alice Smith.
The Alice Smith School
2 Jalan Bellamy,
50460 KL
Tel: 03-2148 3674
Click HERE for their website
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
International schools in Kuala Lumpur: Alice Smith School
Alice Smith is one of the schools I'm looking at for Connor once he starts Year 1. Fortunately it's still a few years away so we have some more time to put money into his school fund. Have you seen the fees!!!
Anyway, they're having an open day on Feb 29 for primary school and Mar 1 for secondary school. I'm definitely going just to check the school out as I have only seen the website.
We have friends who send their children to the secondary school and they can't stop raving about it. Another friend of ours has done her research and has declared once her son turns 5, she's enrolling him into the school.
So mark those dates on your calendar if you're interested!
Anyway, they're having an open day on Feb 29 for primary school and Mar 1 for secondary school. I'm definitely going just to check the school out as I have only seen the website.
We have friends who send their children to the secondary school and they can't stop raving about it. Another friend of ours has done her research and has declared once her son turns 5, she's enrolling him into the school.
So mark those dates on your calendar if you're interested!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Kids Stuff: Racing car beds in Kuala Lumpur
 |
| Connor trying out his new bed when it arrived |
 |
| Okay, the wording on the car was kinda dodgy (Armani??? WTF???) but what can I do... these were the only designs in the shop |
Connor had outgrown his cot a long time ago but we put off buying a big boy bed because we were doing some work in our apartment.
When everything was finally completed, we went out and bought Connor his big boy bed. I was all for buying a simple bed with bed guard rails but I'd made the mistake of showing Dear Hubby a racing car bed that was available in Harvey Norman. It was the little boy in Dear Hubby that insisted on buying a racing car bed for our little boy.
But when we got to Harvey Norman, they had just sold the last of the beds and weren't sure when the next batch would be coming in. I don't know who was more disappointed - Dear Hubby or Connor.
Fortunately, friends pointed me in the direction of Little World Furniture. We went to the branch that's located just off Old Klang Road. It's pretty easy to find if you follow the map on their website.
They had a whole range of kids' bedroom furniture. They had a few designs for racing car beds and one lovely fire engine bunk bed. If we had two kids, I'd probably go for that. They also had girls' designs and some gender-neutral designs like a music-themed bed, animals-themed etc. You can even get matching cupboards, desks and chairs with some designs! Some of their bunk beds were quite cleverly designed to incorporate lots of storage. I saw one where the steps for climbing up to the top bunk were actually drawers. Good if space is tight in a shared room.
We picked this one, the price includes a synthetic rubber foam mattress. WIth Harvey Norman, you have to pay separately for a mattress. The raised sides of the bed keep Connor from falling out so we didn't have to worry about him sleeping alone. The bed takes a standard size 6'x 3' mattress.
You know what's really cool?
The wheels work! If you push the bed along the floor, it runs on the wheels.
We were there on the weekend and the bed was delivered on the Monday and they helped set it up. If you want to buy this bed, I suggest you let the bed air out first as there is a paint smell when it's fresh and new.
Until next time, sweet dreams... vroom, vroom!!!!!!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
When princesses fight
Where were my seven bloody dwarves when I needed them?
Princess Leia kills Snow (not so) White with one swipe of her lightsaber.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight...
What do you do when your son starts to look like a little lion with a great mane of hair when he's asleep?
You haul him off to Kwik Cut in Ikano for a hair cut. We've been there before for his cuts and are very pleased with the quality of the cut and the professionalism of the poor hairstylist who's had to put up with Connor's screams and tears each time. Not to mention their fabulous price of RM13 for a cut!
This time, Connor still screamed and cried but a LOT less than the last time. It helped that another little boy was getting his hair cut before our turn and he didn't cry. Connor was watching intently and I think he felt that it couldn't be that bad if the boy didn't cry. I also figured out that Connor is freaked out by the hair landing on his arms so I dressed him in a long-sleeved shirt (the Thomas tee he's wearing in that sleeping pic actually!) and it helped a LOT. I thought we were in for another disastrous time because Connor clearly remembered the last time we were there. How did I know that? Well, when he saw we were approaching the shop, he started whimpering and tried to drag me away from it. LOL
We promised him McDonald's as a treat later and when I asked him if he wanted to eat some chips, he nodded and said in between sobs "I want eat Coke and chips please." So kesian! A friend of mine joked that he was very well brought up because he could still say "please" even though he was crying. LOL
He was hugged and cuddled and coddled all day long after that and we made a big fuss about how handsome he looked in his new hairdo.
Think he looks so much better with less hair. Here's hoping our next trip will be a lot better.
The result! This is Connor at the Mid Autumn event at Solaris Dutamas with his new boyish hairdo.
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