Expert advice from childcare experts in Hong Kong -1

“I feel nagged 24/7 by Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube – it feels like it takes control of my brain.” – What’s Causing Our Teens Anxiety & Upsetting Their Mental Health

Sarah Keates — Mon, 27 May 2024 22:00:39 +0000

With social media reigning supreme and huge social and academic pressures, it’s no surprise that teens are facing unprecedented challenges when it comes to their mental well-being. We spoke to experts, parents and kids to understand this phenomenon and what to do about it.

Consider a world where everything you do is on record: from a bad hair day to an embarrassing moment, a low grade, or an altercation between friends. Bad enough to experience first-hand in the moment, now imagine this moment is shared, re-shared and dredged up weeks or months later. Stressful? This is the world our teens have grown up in and all they’ve ever known.

For people in Hong Kong, we even have to be careful what we say – the city is small and sometimes I feel watched. I feel scared to express myself or say what I think because I feel it’s always going to come and “bite” me later.

You know that the stress is real when the teenager who gave us this quote prefers to remain anonymous after having faced bullying as a student in Hong Kong. Being questioned for this article brought added and unexpected pressure.

What Are The Mental Health Challenges Teens And Kids Face These Days?

There are many reasons a child’s mental health could be affected depend on specific circumstances and the personality of the individual, ranging from bullying to abuse, unusual family dynamics and more. However, there are a few factors that seem to affect all teens and tweens these days.

The pressures of social media

With social media platforms dominating most aspects of their lives, teens are constantly bombarded with curated images of perfection, setting unrealistic standards and fostering feelings of inadequacy.

Sonia Samtani, a leading hypnotherapist and mental health practitioner in Hong Kong says,

The pressure to fit in and portray a flawless image online can take a significant toll on a teenager’s self-esteem and mental well-being, They’re constantly comparing themselves to their peers, seeking validation through likes and comments, and it’s a never-ending cycle of seeking external approval.

The same teen we spoke to earlier lamented that social media takes away from real life.

It’s depressing because I feel like I get hooked and drawn in and then I sit in bed all day scrolling. Then I end up comparing myself to others and I don’t even want to go outside because I don’t feel good enough.

Exam anxiety and competition

In addition to the virtual pressures, the relentless pursuit of academic excellence adds another layer of stress to the mix. With the competitive nature of Hong Kong’s education system, teenagers often find themselves caught in a relentless cycle of exams, assignments and extracurricular activities, leaving little time for relaxation or self-care. Though this is changing to some extent, Hong Kong is still a high-expectations city and can leave teens with a “sink or swim” mentality. Sonia Samtani explains,

Many students feel like they’re constantly racing against the clock, striving for perfection in everything they do. The good news is that there are almost always alternative pathways and plans for every young person, however they do at school.

As parents, it’s crucial to strike a balance between supporting our teens’ academic pursuits and prioritising their mental well-being. Creating an open and non-judgmental environment where teens feel comfortable discussing their feelings and concerns is paramount in fostering healthy communication and emotional resilience.

So How Can We Start A Mental Health Conversation With Our Kids?

Most of the work around speaking to children about mental health actually comes much before you notice any issues. Odile Thiang, a Paediatric Nurse Practitioner and lead clinical advisor for the Anti-Stigma Project and trainer at Mind HK, reiterates the importance of inviting kids at every age to express how they are feeling (good or bad).

The most important elements are to listen to them and let them be heard, and to not jump into fix-it mode. What they need from you is a secure space to explore their feelings and emotions.

With younger children you can use play or story time to help them talk about how they are feeling, using characters from their play or stories to explore emotions. While older children appreciate it when parents are forthcoming, open and non-judgmental.

Teen Anxiety & Mental Health Warning Signs To Watch Out For

Behavioural Shifts

If your teen is suddenly more moody than usual, or they’re pulling a Houdini act and disappearing into their room for hours on end, it might be time to have a heart-to-heart.

Slipping Grades

Straight-A student now struggling to keep up? It could be a sign that they’re buckling under the pressure. Time to play detective and figure out what’s really going on.

Sleep Suffering

Are late-night study sessions turning into sleepless nights? Keep an eye out for any changes in your teen’s sleep patterns – it could be a red flag for underlying stress.

Social Hibernation

If your once-social butterfly is suddenly cocooning themselves away from friends and family, it’s worth investigating. Loneliness and isolation are no joke.

Physical Pains

Headaches, stomachaches, mysterious aches and pains – if your teen is constantly complaining about feeling under the weather, it might not just be a case of the sniffles. Stress can manifest in weird and wonderful ways.

How To Support Your Child Through Anxiety & Mental Health Challenges

Anxiety often stems from being unduly attached to a certain outcome, such as a particular grade, relationship status, feeling, etc. The two fears that most often cause anxiety are the fear of failure and the fear of rejection. Usually, teens suffer from both these fears. As a parent, if you’re feeling helpless and don’t know how to support your child, here’s what you can do. First and foremost, provide unconditional love. Secondly, encourage your child to take breaks, engage in activities they enjoy, and prioritise self-care. Sonia adds,

It’s essential to remind them that their worth isn’t determined by their grades or social media presence, and that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes.

By recognising the signs of potential mental health issues and with uninterrupted love and support, parents can empower their children to navigate through adolescence. Teens will recognise that while the outcome may not always be within their control, their actions and mindset can be powerful tools for growth. They can then develop the confidence to confront anxiety head-on and navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and resilience.

Editor’s Note: “Mental Health For Kids: How To Start The Conversation” was originally published by Team Sassy Mama in March 2022. It has been updated by Sarah Keates in May 2024 with quotes from teenagers, parents and mental health experts in Hong Kong, including the author’s friends, family and clients along with quotes from Odile Thiang, interviewed for the previous article.

The post “I feel nagged 24/7 by Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube – it feels like it takes control of my brain.” – What’s Causing Our Teens Anxiety & Upsetting Their Mental Health appeared first on Sassy Mama.

No Stinky Business! Safe, Natural And Effective Deodorants For Your Tweens And Teens

Anita Balagopalan — Mon, 06 May 2024 22:00:10 +0000

Mamas, have you recently reached out to hug your adorable kids and found yourself wrinkling up your nose instead? Welcome to the tween and teen phase of parenting. Luckily for you, we have rounded up safe, effective and polite options to teach kids personal hygiene and the important use of deodorants!

It’s tough being a teenager. We’ve all been there – sometimes shocked and downright embarrassed by the array of smells that our bodies are capable of emitting! Blame it on the hormones, the changes in skin, hair, activity and even diet. However, armed with more self-awareness than we had in our teens, and empathy and honest conversations by their parents (aka, us!), our tweens and teens have a lot more safe and effective options to combat body odour than we had in our hey (maybe hay smelt more like it?!) days. These are the best, safest and most effective deodorants that you can offer your children.

Talking To Teens About Deodorants, Grooming And Personal Hygiene

Talking to your teenager about body odour can be uncomfortable. No one likes to believe that they smell! But the first and most important thing would be to assure your child that it’s completely normal. Body hair, odour, acne, oily skin and sweat are all a part of puberty and growing up, and you are always open to discussing these topics with them. It isn’t an infringement of their personal space – just an offer to help. And just because they have passed the age when we watch them carefully and supervise their bathing, brushing and other body care routines, it’s no reason for them not to do a good job themselves and keep clean.

Remind them to bathe daily, sometimes even more than that, if they have been playing a sport. Follow it up with moisturising, if they have a tendency towards dry skin. In some cases, that might be enough to keep the B.O. away, but if it’s not, you should have enough knowledge about what deodorants they could and should use.

Are Deodorants, Antiperspirants And Personal Hygiene Products Safe For Children?

The debate about what are natural, safe and effective methods to combat body odour rages on, especially when it comes to antiperspirants versus deodorants. Most antiperspirants work by attempting to plug your sweat glands and some articles suggest that these can be cancer-causing. Counter-research has questioned whether these claims can be scientifically proven. Deodorants work differently. They mask body odour by affecting the bacteria that thrive on moisture, or sweat. Many deos use an alcohol base which makes the area acidic (deterring bacteria) while some deodorants and talcs use aluminium, parabens, chemical-laden fragrances and triclosan work by killing the bacteria (even helpful bacteria) present on your skin. There are many deodorants in the market that claim to have the same effect but promote good bacteria (look for microbiome-friendly labels on products) and use natural ingredients instead of the chemical ones. Once again, this is a topic of hot debate.

If you are worried about whether antiperspirants and deodorants could harm your child, do read some of the latest research to set your mind at ease. However, as this topic is constantly being studied, it’s best to avoid those with known nasties, until definitely proved to have no long-lasting ill effects. If you’re not sure, a good rule of thumb is to always run your personal care products and their ingredients through EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic’s Database to determine their safety.

Choosing Safe, Natural And Effective Deodorants For Teens

So when it comes to deodorants, does natural mean better? Unfortunately not. For one, there is no clear definition of what constitutes a “natural deodorant”.

Secondly, the biggest fear while using deodorants is not cancer (as no direct link has been established yet), but dermatitis or skin infection. And this can happen with any sort of product or ingredient (depending on your skin), including completely “safe and natural” products too. I can vouch for this myself as I recently picked one of the highest-rated microbiome-friendly deodorants and got a rash and skin irritation within two days that lasted two weeks after I had stopped using the product!

It’s always recommended that you do a little patch test on your skin first, but you must remember that skin in your armpits is more sensitive and prone to infection than your elbow or wherever else you choose to do a patch test. So when it comes to choosing the right deo for your child (or even yourself), it is best to follow a trial and error method. What we have done is asked some of the sassiest and savviest mamas we know to compile this list of safe deodorants that get our vote.

Coconut Matter – All-natural and vegan deodorant

Coconut Matter carefully selects ingredients derived from 100% natural sources for its personal care products, including deodorants, sunscreens, body lotions, etc. With coconut as its main ingredient, these products are allergy-safe and biodegradable. We like that Coconut Matter is upfront about mentioning that the FDA has not evaluated the statements on its website.

Sassy Mama Tip: This is a great deodorant but not all of the variants are equally effective. We find the Bliss and Spring variants far more effective than the unscented Coconut one.

Coconut Matter, 12B, 12/F, Block 2, Kingley Industrial Building, 33 Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, www.coconutmatter.com

Drunk Elephant – Deodorant cream that really works

The Sweet Pitti deodorant cream has been getting rave reviews and for good reason! It uses a blend of mandelic acid and absorbent arrowroot to eliminate stubborn odour-causing bacteria and a mix of plant oils to support your skin’s moisture barrier. It’s available on Sephora, along with Kopari natural deodorants that you might want to try.

Drunk Elephant, available on Sephora, www.drunkelephant.com

Zero Yet 100 – 100% natural deodorant

The name Zero Yet 100 indicates that it has zero nasties and 100% efficacy. It’s undoubtedly effective even after a whole day out in the Hong Kong sun (personally tested by this Sassy Mama!). The deodorant in the aluminium pot has maximum strength. Choose the roll-on or spray for lighter versions of the same. The light gray deo could leave a dark patch on the skin and clothes, so watch out for that.

Zero Yet 100, 702 Car Po Commercial Building, 18-20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, 2524 4948, www.zeroyet100.com

QB – Medicated deodorant cream

This Japanese product is easily available in your local Mannings. It’s easy to apply and can be used anywhere where your child might be a bit extra sweaty, including the feet (no more stinky socks? Yes, please!). It’s aluminium-free and uses a plant formula.

QB, available at Mannings, www.dokodemo.world

Tom’s of Maine – Natural deodorant and antiperspirant options for the whole family

This is a very well-reputed personal care brand that offers both completely natural and regular options of antiperspirants and deodorants for men and women. Pick the one that suits your child the best after sampling a few. They are readily available in online sites like iHerb and uBuy, as well as select stores in the city.

Tom’s of Maine, www.tomsofmaine.com

Aesop – Aluminium-free deodorant roll-on and spray

This deodorant is a staple for many Hong Kong mums. A little spray or dab of this goes a long way in keeping the stink away! Made with a blend of essential oils, this is a unisex formula without aluminium salts. The Aesop product range is not exclusively organic or natural, but uses a combination of high-quality botanical and synthetic ingredients.

Aesop, various locations across Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9865 2812, 3001 6734, www.aesop.com/hk

Arm & Hammer – Natural deodorant with essential oils

This deodorant always shows up as one of the top options for men and sweaty teens! It contains baking soda and natural plant extracts to absorb and fight odour and is aluminium, paraben and phthalate-free.

Arm & Hammer, available on iHerb, www.armandhammer.com

Salt of the Earth – Cruelty-free natural deodorant that’s approved by Vegetarian and Vegan societies

This UK-made deodorant doesn’t leave white marks on your skin, which is a big plus for those who want to go sleeveless this summer. It doesn’t contain aluminium chlorohydrate, parabens, triclosan, alcohol or CFCs and also promises not to suffocate your pores. It comes in a range of scents and sizes, and is available in zero-waste stores and sites in Hong Kong.

Salt of the Earth, available on oGreen, www.saltoftheearthnatural.com

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in June 2017 by Leora Caylor and updated in April 2024 by Anita Balagopalan

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Where To Find Counsellors, Psychologists And Therapists In Hong Kong

Sassy Mama — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 22:00:10 +0000

Seeking a counsellor and professional support is always okay. If you’re going through challenging times in your marriage or family, here’s where to find counselling psychologists, marriage counsellors and therapists in Hong Kong.

Feeling anxious, stressed and worried? Wondering why you and your partner get into the same quarrels every week, or how to be more patient with your family? You’re not alone. While we all try our best in difficult times, it doesn’t hurt to reach out to a professional counsellor, psychologist or therapist for help. Like shoes, you have to find the right therapist that fits you. We’ve put together this list of Hong Kong-based family therapists and counsellors, plus a few counselling centres that specialise in marriage counselling.

Sakura Counselling – In-person and online therapy to build healthy relationships

If you’ve read pages upon pages of self-help books, but still feel sad, angry, anxious or alone, Sakura Counselling may be able to help. It offers in-person and online therapy to adults, teens, parents and families, so they can begin to unravel the thoughts and feelings that keep them feeling stuck in unhealthy habits or relationships. With a deeper awareness of your particular needs, you’ll be able to work together with the therapist to choose and practice the skills that will help you move forward. Sakura Counselling also hosts workshops with various professionals to offer a holistic approach to supporting mental health.

Mention that you discovered Sakura Counselling on Sassy Mama to enjoy 10% off when booking via email. Valid until Sunday, 24 November 2024.

Sakura Counselling, Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong, 6718 9500, contact@sakuracounselling.com, Facebook: Sakura Counselling, Instagram: sakuracounselling7, sakuracounselling.com

SPOT – Solution-oriented family counselling in Hong Kong

At SPOT, you will find a a compassionate, diverse and experienced team of psychologists and counsellors who help children, adolescents, parents and families alike. The SPOT Psychology Team approaches every therapy session and assessment with each client’s strengths and needs in mind. It strives to make a positive difference in families’ and individuals’ lives, and help them overcome roadblocks and challenges that have surfaced using a solution-oriented approach in tailored assessments or group therapy.

SPOT, various locations across Hong Kong, www.spot.com.hk

St. John’s Cathedral Counselling Service – Therapy in Hong Kong for special education needs

St. John’s Cathedral Counselling Service provides safe, professional counselling and is one of the largest and most established health NGOs in Hong Kong. Its therapists speak over 13 languages, plus it offers psychological assessments for special education needs (SEN) for children suspected of autism, dyslexia, ADHD and giftedness.

St. John’s Cathedral Counselling Service, 7/D On Hing Building, 1-9 On Hing Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, 2525 7207, 2525 7208, www.sjcshk.com

OCD Anxiety & Support – One-on-one counselling for families in Hong Kong

Founder Minal Mahtani, a Cognitive Behaviour Practitioner and advocate, incorporates both Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention in her sessions and she also provides regular adult support group meetings. It is also open to parents who would like help to support their teenagers or children who have OCD or AD. Both services are free of charge (services are prioritised to those who will benefit most).

We’ve attended the support group sessions ourselves and can vouch for a safe and comfortable experience. Get in touch via ocdcommunityhk@gmail.com to book sessions.

OCD Anxiety & Support, www.ocdanxietyhk.org

Renewed Edge – Hong Kong counselling service and life coaching therapy

Certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists and Hong Kong Counselling Association, Renewed Edge offers a wide range of therapies from Neuro-Linguistic Programming to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, plus hypnotherapy sessions and life coaching for the family. Sessions are conducted in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and French.

Renewed Edge, Suite 1108, 11/F, Asia Standard Tower, 59-65 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9884 8036, www.renewed-edge.com

MindnLife – Family therapy and counselling in Hong Kong

A private psychology practice for the whole family, MindnLife provides counselling, personal support and therapy for adults, teens, children, couples and families. Its team has a combined clinical psychological treatment experience of over 75 years. Sessions can be held in person and online.

MindnLife, Suite 1202, Chinachem Hollywood Centre, 1 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2521 4668, www.mindnlife.com

Central Minds – Trusted couples and family counselling in Hong Kong

The Central Minds team are well equipped to provide various therapy techniques including cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy and eye movement desensitisation. Its international practice includes psychologists and counsellors who can help couples and families in areas including relationship counselling and help with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief and loss.

Central Minds, Unit 2001, 20/F, Ruttonjee House, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2813 6108, www.centralminds.hk

Maple Tree Counselling – Counselling psychologists for parents and teens

Maple Tree Counselling offers one-on-one counselling for adults and teens experiencing depression, trauma, addiction, low self-esteem as well as group therapy and couples marriage counselling for LGBTQ+, fertility issues, menopause, parents and teens and more. It is a diverse practice of professional therapists delivering therapy in person and online in Hong Kong and Australia.

Maple Tree Counselling, 27/F, Worldwide House, 19 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 6375 6098, www.mapletreecounselling.com

OT&P MindWorX – Hong Kong therapists for adolescents and kids

MindWorx at OT&P provides an experienced team who can help in areas including adolescent therapy, family therapy and children’s psychological assessments. It also works with individuals in areas like questioning sexuality and gender, couples counselling, coming out and family counselling.

Sassy Mama tip: OT&P provide excellent online resources in the form of blog articles and podcasts. Be sure to check out Peace of Mind by MindWorX

MindWorX at OT&P, 6/F, Century Square, 1 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2468 3577, www.otandp.com

Family Dynamics – Counselling for families from all walks of life

Founded by a group of marriage and family therapists who graduated from the HKU Family Institute, Family Dynamics offers sessions for individuals, couples and families from all walks of life. It also organises family education and mental health lectures for the public.

Family Dynamics, Unit 901, 9/F Park Commercial Centre, 180 Tung Lo Wan Road, Tin Hau, Hong Kong, 2468 1261, www.familydynamics.com.hk

More Counselling Psychologists And Therapists In Hong Kong

Connect Counselling – In-person or online individual and couples therapy while focusing on helping people cultivate intimacy and deep meaningful connections. www.connectcounselling.co
Dimensions Centre – Psychology and psychotherapy services for couples and families. www.dimensionscenter.com
IntegratedWay – Relationship-focused counselling for professionals. www.integratedway.com
Laurene Man Counselling Services – 35 years of experience in couples and family counselling. www.lmcounseling.com.hk
Momentum Counselling – Strengths-based counselling for individuals, couples and families. www.momentumcounselling.hk
Rethink The Couch – Online counselling psychologist in Hong Kong. www.rethinkthecouch.com

Editor’s Note: “Where To Find Counsellors, Psychologists And Therapists In Hong Kong” was most recently updated in February 2024 by Fashila Kanakka, with thanks to Najuka Redkar for her contribution.

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The Chat: Age Appropriate Sex Education Advice And Resources

Sassy Mama — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:00:13 +0000

Ensuring your kids have a quality sex education is vital for their wellbeing. It’s not an easy topic to tackle, but here’s where to start your birds and the bees chat.

The evidence is in, according to the World Health Organisation, “high-quality sexuality education delivers positive health outcomes, with lifelong impacts.” Kids who receive quality, age-appropriate sex education are more likely to delay exploring their sexuality, and more importantly;

“when they do start having sex, it is safer when they are better informed about their sexuality, sexual health and their rights.”

That’s all well and good, but talking to your child or teenager about the birds and the bees is no easy task – even for the most relaxed and open-minded parent.

The Importance Of Sex Education In Hong Kong

Chances are you already know that you need to start having open conversations with your kids. While schools do the best they can, research suggests it isn’t enough, so the conversations need to also happen at home.

It might be tempting to put off talking about the inevitable, “where do babies come from,” until they are older, by that time they may have created their own patchwork of fact and myth about sex.

Sassy Mama Tip: The point about talking to children and teens about sex is to help them make informed and healthy choices when the time comes, not just with regards to sexual health but also in the way they view relationships.

Sex Education For Toddlers And Kids Under 6

Many children are introduced to sex education when they see pregnant women in their world. It could be a teacher or caregiver, or even a parent as they expect a younger sibling. Faced with a pregnant belly, young children will be interested in how they came into this world.

“They are really trying to make sense of how they belong in their family.”

At this age, young children become increasingly aware of their bodies and the differences between boys and girls. Young children are also aware that parents share a bed and will have seen them share some physical affection. Given that young children are noticing all of these things, it would be appropriate to meet their curiosity. Fill that need for information by talking to them about bodies and where babies come from in an age-appropriate way.

Sassy Mama Tips:

Use age appropriate language and avoid misunderstandings. For example, if your young child’s word for penis is “pi-pi”, though it might also be the word for going to the toilet, it might sound confusing if daddy puts his “pi-pi” into mummy to make a baby! So keep their vocabulary and understanding in mind while explaining anything.
While children do need to learn the correct term for parts of the anatomy, parents naturally use words that feel more comfortable when their children are small. So for example, semen might be described as a “seed”. Children’s books (see below for a list of resources) that explain the facts of life to children at this age might be a helpful source of information for you and your child to look at together.

Sex Education Books For Young Kids

Here are a selection of books specifically designed for young kids. Whether you’re looking for help explaining body parts, where babies come from or the mechanics and science of it all. There are even some beautiful books that discuss pregnancy loss and rainbow babies for parents having trouble finding the words for their little ones.

Sex Education For Primary School Kids

When children are of primary school age, their level of interest in sexual matters can vary. Their ability to vocalise their curiosity may depend on the family’s attitude towards sex. At this age, they may continue to be interested in differences between the sexes (for example, wanting to know about puberty and periods), but they might also have a greater awareness of romantic relationships. At this age, they will be learning that these can take place between same-sex as well as opposite-sex couples. Remain open and honest with your child and try not to shy away from any questions they might have.

Sex Education Books For Primary School Kids

At this age kids are better able to understand more details. There are books here covering everything from body parts to intercourse, and all the different ways a family can be made.

Talking To Tweens And Teens About Sex

Most young adolescents learn about puberty and reproduction at school or in the media (the internet, films, books or TV) and friends are also sources of (mis)information. When puberty hits, hormones rage and an interest in all things sex develops. Adolescents may start masturbating.

As adolescents become more adept at romantic relationships, they become increasingly sexually active. In adolescence, the individual’s gender and sexual identity continue to develop particularly in the context of their peer group. Teens start to feel more sure of their sexual orientation and can be particularly vulnerable to mental health issues when their sexual orientation isn’t accepted within their family and social circles.

“It may be the hardest time to begin talking to your teen about sex if you haven’t started earlier.”

Apart from the embarrassment factor, adolescents become more independent and rely less and less on parents for information and emotional support, turning to their peers for both. So learning from an early age that it is ok to talk about sex with your parents is very important. Perhaps the biggest role a parent can take at this stage is in helping to dispel myths about sex such as how to avoid getting pregnant and STDs.

As with all aspects of a teenager’s life, part of the growing up process is to learn about taking responsibility for yourself. Whilst adolescents may be able to take the necessary physical precautions, they need to learn from you that sex is only one part of real relationships and that emotional responsibility in relationships is of equal, if not greater, importance.

Despite their eagerness to move away from you, teenagers need to have a sense that you will still be there for them no matter what in their chaotic and ever-changing lives.

Sex Education Books For Teens

Your teens need facts and to be spoken to on their level. We love that these books don’t beat around the bush, and cover everything from sexuality and gender identity to conversations around consent. There’s even a book of true stories about losing your virginity.

Do’s And Don’ts For Talking To Your Kids About Sex

While each family is different there are common threads that you can weave in order to talk to children about sex in a way that works for everyone involved.

Timing Your Sex Education

Do — Try to be open to talking about issues as and when they arise, for example when your child raises a question out of curiosity. If it’s not an appropriate time and place, come back to it later in the day when you have a moment alone with your child or teen.

Don’t — Book in an excruciating “facts of life” chat. The anxiety and embarrassment of such a setup is unlikely to help your child or teen understand the information you are trying to convey.

Keeping Your Cool

Do — Answer in a relaxed and comfortable way. If you are very anxious, buy yourself some time to talk to friends or your partner and think about or rehearse what you are going to say. It may be difficult to be completely relaxed at first but it will get easier with practice.

Don’t — Baulk at the question. It’s ok to react with surprise but take a moment to consider it from their (innocent) perspective and think about what they need to know and why they are asking.

Sassy Mama Tip: Remember your child picks up on the way you say things as well as what you say. Your anxiety might convey that talking about sex, or even sex itself, is something to feel frightened or embarrassed about.

What To Say When You Talk To Your Kids About Sex

Do — Keep it short, sweet and simple. Try to answer the question that has been asked directly, without getting too far off track. You can check in with them what they mean and ask how much they already know. Then tailor your answer according to their needs.

Don’t — Overwhelm your kids with too much information (which may come from your own nerves!).

Leave The Door Open For Further Discussion

Do — Let them know that you value them asking questions, and that they can always come to you.

Do — Be approachable and encouraging with them from a young age. This will help them grow up with trust and the ability to confide in you when there are problems.

More Sex Education Resources For Parents

Finally, if you’re looking for more specific sex education advice, these parenting books are a great place to start.

Editor’s note: This article was most recently updated in October 2023. Thanks to Liz Fletcher, Roxanne Dowell and Alex Purcell Garcia for their contributions.

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Car Seat Safety: Where To Find Car Seats In Hong Kong

Sassy Mama — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 22:00:40 +0000

Figuring out which car seat will keep your precious ones safe and secure? From Doona and Recaro to Cybex and Maxi Cosi, here are the best car seats for your child.

Finding the perfect car seat is no easy task but our kids need to be strapped in safely, whether in your car or a taxi. While car seat laws in Hong Kong seem more relaxed than in other countries, they still state that a child should be secured in an “approved restraint for children” up to the age of two. To maintain safety, however, it’s good practice to follow the rules of your home country. We’ve rounded up a selection of popular car seat brands and where to buy them and answered some of your top questions to make sure your little ones are car-safety-ready!

Jump To:
The Best Car Seats In Hong Kong
Your Car Seat Questions Answered

The Best Car Seats In Hong Kong

Doona+ Car Seat

Doona is a super convenient car seat that turns into a stroller within seconds! It opens and closes with a click of a button and comes in a striped navy Vacation edition and an all-black Midnight collection in addition to its original design.

Sassy Mama Tip: As newborns shouldn’t stay in a car seat for prolonged periods (the position isn’t ideal for their little growing bodies) it shouldn’t be a replacement for a regular stroller – which should lay flat for newborn development.

Price: From $3,380.
Where To Buy: Various retailers and online at Doona.

RECARO Kids Car Seat

RECARO Kids offers car seats for children from 15 months to 12 years old at various price points and in a selection of colours. It has a patented HERO seat belt system that combines shoulder pads, shoulder straps and headrest into one piece, preventing the belt from slipping and twisting.

Price: From $2,199
Where To Buy: Baby Central and Twins Baby.

Cybex Car Seat

Cybex has everything from infant car seats and convertible car seats to high-back boosters and all-in-one car seats that have rear-facing, forward-facing and booster seats incorporated in them. It has a fashionable and innovative design that is perfect for your fast-paced Hong Kong lifestyle.

Price: From $3,679
Where To Buy: Mothercare, Baby Central and Jakewell.

Maxi Cosi Car Seat

This Hong Kong parent favourite sits high on the list due to safety ratings – but also convenience. Not only can you get a Maxi-Cosi car seat with an accompanying stroller frame, but you can also purchase clip-on adapters so that the car seat sits neatly on your Yoyo or Bugaboo strollers as well.

Price: From $3,679
Where To Buy: Mothercare, Baby Central and Jakewell.

Combi Car Seat

If you’re looking for a full range of child car seats that meet international safety standards for newborns until 11 years old, Combi is a great shout. If you’ve got a baby and a compact car, opt for Combi’s bed-style car seat which is designed to save space in the car while protecting the baby.

Price: From $2,534
Where To Buy: Fortress and Twins Baby.

Britax Car Seat

Winner of the Red Dot Design Award for the group 1 Trifix car seat (for simple and intuitive handling plus its chic minimalist look), this German brand is sure to keep your little one safe while looking cool at the same time.

Price: From $1,880
Where To Buy: Twins Baby

Graco Car Seat

Intended from “infancy to youth” this is another well-known name on the baby front. Graco car seats are designed to the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations and are crash tested to meet and exceed US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. So you can rest assured that your little one will be safe on Hong Kong roads.

Price: From $2,966
Where To Buy: Baby Online

More Car Seat Brands You Can Find In Hong Kong

Cosatto – Bright-coloured car seats with a wide variety of functionality. Available at Cosatto HK.
Babyzen Yoyo Car Seat – Ergonomic car seats for your child. Available at Mothercare HK and Baby Central.
Phil&Teds – Easy to install and comes with a stroller frame to match. Available at Mothercare.
Chicco – A well-recognised name on the baby gear front. Available online at Chicco HK.

Your Car Seat Questions Answered

Need more advice on using car seats? We’ve put together answers to some questions you may have.

I sometimes buckle up in the back with my child in my lap, letting the seat belt cover us both. Is that safe?

No, this is not the safest way for your child to travel. Instead, they should be in their car seat. When they have outgrown all suitable car seats, they should occupy their own seats and wear seat belts.

Can I sit with my baby in an infant carrier and put the seat belt around us both?

Whilst this may seem secure for you and your baby, this is not a safe way to travel. In the case of a crash, your head may be thrown forward, which means your chin will collide with your baby’s head, quite aside from the fact that a baby carrier has not been crash-tested before.

What is the safest way to travel in taxis when car seats aren’t an option?

When travelling you should use your appropriate car seat for your baby in every type of vehicle, and attach it securely with a seat belt – infant capsule car seats are always an option – take your own! When buying your stroller ensure it’s “travel system friendly”, then you can take your buggy in the taxi and when you’re at your destination, simply attach your capsule to it.

If travelling with a toddler or older child, you can access portable booster seats and inflatable booster seats which are suitable for 3 to 4 years upwards. The point of a booster seat is to ensure the seatbelt is positioned at the correct level (across the chest and well below neck level) so the height of the child determines if a booster is suitable.

Are forward-facing car seats as safe as rear-facing?

Forward-facing and rear-facing can be confusing for many parents and the guidelines differ for many countries throughout the world. Here’s a really simple guide:

Why rear face? In the case of a crash, infants are especially at risk of head and spinal cord injuries because their bones and ligaments are still developing. Their spinal structural support is also still developing. In the rear-facing position, a child’s head, neck and spine are aligned. A rear-facing car seat supports the child’s head, absorbs the force of the crash and cradles them.
Rear-facing seats give the best support to your child’s head, neck, and spine, and will prevent your child’s head from being thrown away from his or her body. Infants and toddlers should travel in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible (up to the weight and height allowance of the car seat). Many countries now recommend that your child travels rear-facing for up to two years.

What is more important when choosing a car seat? Weight or height?

A car seat should fit the weight and height of your child. The seat will have been safety tested up to certain weight and height limits and it’s imperative to take both of these into account when selecting an appropriate car seat for your child.

Do car seats/boosters expire?

Car seats do have an expiration date and the standard is around six years. This is because exposure to extremely unpredictable circumstances over time (for example, extreme heat in tropical places) can wear down. Manufacturing testing is not done consistently on a product – only at the beginning. The expiration date is normally located on a label on the car seat, or if the date of manufacture is stamped on the car seat the expiry date is six years from then.

Are toddlers allowed in the front seat (in their booster/car seat) in cars without a back seat?

It is safer for your child to travel in the rear seats in their car seat or booster – less opportunity to hit the glass in the event of any impact means a safer travelling environment. Legally in most countries, where there is no back seat option (only one row of seats), it is allowed but not advised.

What are the most common safety mistakes we as parents make?

In Hong Kong, unfortunately, one of the most common mistakes we see is not using a car seat at all! Regardless of the law, caring for the safety of our children surely means that we should never compromise on providing the safest travelling environment for them.
When we do use car seats, many parents often subconsciously put their own preferences, or presumption of their baby’s preferences, first (as opposed to their safety). For example, some parents believe that their babies are crying because they don’t like facing the seat (in a rear-facing position) and then move them to forward face much sooner than the safety guidelines advise.
Many parents will take their baby in a carrier in a taxi because it seems more convenient – when there are now many travel system-friendly strollers on the market (which means that whether or not to take the infant capsule shouldn’t even be a question in our minds).

Editor’s Note: Car Seat Safety: Where To Find Car Seats In Hong Kong was most recently updated in March 2023 by Najuka Redkar.

The post Car Seat Safety: Where To Find Car Seats In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Tutorial Centres In Hong Kong: Where To Find The Right Tutor For Your Child

Sassy Mama — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 22:00:09 +0000

If your child needs extra academic help, enrolling them in a tutorial centre might be your best option. From tutors for A-levels, IGCSE, IB and beyond, we’ve rounded up the best tutors and tutorial centres in Hong Kong.

Ask any Hong Kong parent what the number one priority is for their children and they’ll inevitably tell you that it’s education. But in a city where every second bus carries an advert for a tutor, how do you choose the right learning support for your child? We’ve sifted through to find some of the best tutorial centres in Hong Kong.

Renewed Learning – Learn from Oxbridge-educated tutors

Headquartered in the UK, Renewed Learning has just expanded to Hong Kong to launch Renewed Learning Asia. Your child will learn from some of its very best tutors educated at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Suitable for children 4 to 18 years old, it offers tutors for exam preparation, confidence building and help with university admissions. Classes are held in person in Hong Kong and online across Asia.

Renewed Learning, 5969 3009, office@renewed learningasia.co.uk, www.renewedlearningasia.co.uk.

All Round Education Academy – Tutorial centre with A-Level, IB and AP and more.

All Round Education Academy has a world-class academic tutoring team that ensures its students achieve the best they can. Its comprehensive courses include IB, A Levels, AP, IGCSE and HSC. You can book a free trial lesson to see if it’s the right fit for your child.

All Round Education Academy, various locations across Hong Kong, 2724 4240, www.allround-edu.com.

The Edge – Tutoring classes with an interdisciplinary approach

The Edge uses an interdisciplinary approach where theories from one subject may be used to explain another. This helps students further their understanding of their schoolwork and the world around them. It also offers test preparation and mock tests (for SAT, ACT, SSAT and ISEE) plus university admissions guidance.

The Edge, various locations across Hong Kong, www.theedge.com.hk.

Kumon – English and Maths tutor for young children

If you’d like to develop your young one’s basic academic skills in reading writing and math, look into the Kumon method. Here, you’ll find classes for Mathematics, English (including English as a foreign language and English reading classes) and Chinese programs for children over 3 years old.

Kumon, Room 3403-3408, 34/F, Chubb Tower, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, 2890 6533, info@kumon.com.hk, www.kumon.com.hk.

ITS Education Asia – Tutoring class with flexible learning options

ITS Education Asia (ITS) provides flexible learning options for primary and secondary school as well as university subjects and courses including A-levels, IB, IGCSE, SAT IELTS and more. You can choose to learn in a classroom setting or online learning, plus it has private lessons and small group classes.

ITS Education Asia, 4/F., BOC Group Life Assurance Tower, 134-136 Des Voeux Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2116 3916, info@itseducation.asia, www.itseducation.asia.

Aegis Advisors – Private tutor options in Hong Kong

Aegis provides comprehensive academic support to students of all ages in Hong Kong. It has private tutoring services from primary school through to IB, GCSE, A-level and AP curriculums that can be taken at home or through online classes.

Aegis Advisors, 16/F, Vulcan House, 21-23 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, 8175 5687, www.aegis-advisors.com.

Tiger Campus – Tutorial centre with a wide range of subjects

Tiger Campus offers online and home tuition for a wide variety of curricula – from IGCSE, IB and A-levels to HKDSE. It has tutors from prestigious universities around the world who can provide university thesis guidance help and free college entrance exam resources.

Tiger Campus, 5441 5542, info@tigercampus.com, www.tigercampus.hk.

Kaplan Hong Kong – University preparation tutorial centre

One of the largest English-language training and university preparation providers in the world, Kaplan offers a comprehensive range of programmes from English language training to pre-college courses. You can also learn certain online courses for free!

Aegis Advisors, 2/F, E-Tech Centre, 402-406 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 2526 3686, hkinfo@kaplan.com