After Hong Kong’s spectacular performance at the Tokyo Olympic Games, it’s but natural that we are all looking forward to the Paris Olympics 2024. From new sports included in the Olympic games to Hong Kong athletes to cheer on, we’ve told you exactly what Hong Kong can expect at the Paris Olympics this year. But do you know where you can watch all the action live (or recorded)?

Read More: Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024 – What To Expect This Year

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels

The Hong Kong government announced last month that they acquired the broadcasting rights for the games and that they will be free to watch on the three local television channels.

So you can watch the Paris Olympics 2024 on:

• TVB
• ViuTV
• HOY TV
• And the public broadcaster RTHK.

This means that you can watch the games at home or at any venue that has cable television. This great incentive means that it is easy to plan an event or view the games just about anywhere in Hong Kong.

When To Watch The Paris Olympics 2024: Time Difference & Competition Schedule

Don’t forget that Paris is six hours behind Hong Kong time! Keep checking the schedule of the Paris Olympics 2024 to plan which sports you want to watch. If you have a child who has sporting talent and could be our next Olympic champion in fencing or swimming, you definitely don’t want to miss any of the crucial games.

Important Events & Ceremonies To Watch At The Paris Olympics 2024

Opening Ceremony: For the first time in the history of the Olympics, the Opening Ceremony will be outside a stadium, set on Paris’ main artery, the River Seine and will quite a treat to watch! Unfortunately, it will be well past midnight for us, so make sure you catch the highlights of this spectacle.

The first week itself promises to be action-packed for Hong Kong. Check the schedule and be sure to watch important Olympic medal events for fencing and swimming.

The second week will be critical for our hopes for a badminton medal.

Taekwondo medal events will be towards the last leg of the games while table tennis, rowing and sailing events are evenly distributed over the 15 days of the games. Do check which sports your kids are most keen to watch this Olympics!

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Sports Centres

Just as it has done for previous editions of the Olympics, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will set up the Olympics Focal Site at the designated sports centres under its management across 18 districts to broadcast the events of the Games. The Olympics Focal Site will be open from 8am to 11pm between Saturday, 27 July to Sunday, 12 August 2024. Members of the public are welcome to visit and watch the broadcast of competitions.

Some of the sports centres included are:

• Smithfield Sports Centre
• Aberdeen Tennis & Squash Centre
• Pei Ho Street Sports Centre
• Kowloon Park Sports Centre
• Tung Chung Man Tung Road Sports Centre
• Tsing Yi Southwest Sports Centre
• Hong Kong Velodrome

Don’t be disappointed if you don’t find a sports centre near you mentioned above. There are plenty of places to watch the Paris Olympics in Hong Kong. For the complete list, visit the LCSD website.

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Tennis & More

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Bars & Restaurants

This one is for the parents! You may not want to take your kids to bars (of course!) on a regular basis but you may want to make an exception for the Olympics! There are many bars with great dining options as well, and family-friendly fare on the weekends. Given that Central European Summer Time (CEST) or the time in Paris is six hours behind us, you’re probably going to head to the bars only after work on weekdays or after the kids have gone to bed anyway.

The Blind Pig – Family-friendly sports bar that’s an ideal place to watch the Olympics in Hong Kong

With frequent promotions for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and all child-favourite festivities, this is as kid friendly as a sports bar can get. They have giant screens for all sporting events and are currently asking followers on social media to vote for which Olympic events they should air.

The Blind Pig, Shop GB12-14A, 45 Tai Hong Street, Soho East, Lei King Wan, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong, www.theblindpig.com.hk

Delaneys – Irish pub for live sports, including the Olympics

You can count on the Irish for good beer, bar bites and a love of sports! This Irish pub in Tsim Sha Tsui is a great spot to watch live sports. While right now, it’s all about Euro 2024 and Wimbledon, keep checking their Facebook page to know their live sports schedule when it’s Olympics time in July and August.

Delaneys Kowloon, Basement, Mary Building, 71-77 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/DelaneysKowloon

The Globe  – British gastro pub that airs sports

When it comes to a British bar, you can expect it to be a haven for football enthusiasts. But it’s not just football – The Globe will be airing the Olympics this year and offering Sunday roasts on weekends, traditional Shepherd’s pie and more. You can book the private lounge to watch sports with your friends here.

The Globe, Garley Building, 45-53 Graham Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.theglobe.com.hk

Wan Chai Stadium – Sports bar where you can watch all live action sports and the Olympics

When a bar has “stadium” in its name, it’s a dead giveaway about where its heart lies! Football fans frequently haunt this sports bar though it airs all types of sports. We love its bar bites too – nothing like munching on chicken wings while cheering on your favourite athlete.

Wan Chai Stadium, Shop A3, 72-86 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, www.instagram.com/wanchai_stadium_official

Other Bars & Restaurants In Hong Kong Where You Can Watch The Paris Olympics 2024

• Trafalgar – British pub in Wan Chai. www.trafalgar.com.hk
• Dockyard – Sports and skyline views at this Kerry Hotel bar and restaurant. www.shangri-la.com
• The Chippy – Fish and chips plus live sports make for the perfect evening in Discovery Bay. www.instagram.com/thechippyhk

Read More: Kid-Friendly Restaurants In Hong Kong We Love

Where To Watch Olympics In Hong Kong: Malls & Olympic-Themed Activities

It seems like every mall in Hong Kong is getting Olympic fever this summer. While there are always fun summer events in Hong Kong, this year, everything is themed around the Olympics! So there are make-shift sports grounds coming up, inflatable sports parks and more.

The government is set to host some events for the games but few have been announced at this time. A legislative council panel document was released in April 2024 by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau that is anticipating many free events and activities. Keep an eye out for some of these anticipated events!

Four of Sino Group’s largest malls are getting in on the action too. There will be massive screens put up at Olympian City, TMT Plaza, Citywalk and One North, so you can always catch the action while you’re in the middle of shopping or dining out. Besides this, these malls have collaborated with local TV stations to have cheering events while the live broadcasts are on (you can find the schedule here).

Other malls are also getting into the action. D.Park in Tseun Wan has announced that it will be airing the Olympics on its indoor lawn, while Central Market will also be airing the main events.

To ring in the Olympics, AIRSIDE is partnering with the acclaimed HOYTV sports production team to bring live broadcasts of major events from the Paris 2024 Olympics, along with professional commentary. What’s more? Your kids have a chance to meet their favourite sporting heroes, Sarah Lee Wai-sze, Angus Ng Ka-long, Monnie Chu Ka-mong and Sze Ka-yam (on Thursday, 25 July)!

Read More: Family-Friendly Events And Happenings Over The Summer Holiday

Some of the events that we are interested in:

• Skaters’ Night – On Saturday, 27 July, Hysan Place is turning the spotlight on this new Olympic sport and inviting local skateboarding masters for special demonstrations and performances with children. Olympic table tennis bronze medalist Minnie So, and Hong Kong women’s high jump record holder Cecilia Yeung will join in the fun by skateboarding for themselves. There will also be breakdancing crews collaborating with BMX groups to put on a street culture spectacle. What’s more?  There will be live broadcasts of the Olympic skateboarding’s action from prelims to finals.
• Sport for All Day – Sunday, 4 August 2024: A wide range of free activities to be held at designated sports centres in 18 districts on the Sport For All Day 2024. www.lcsd.gov.hk
• Mr. Men Little Miss Mini Sports Playground – On until Sunday, 1 September 2024: Plaza Hollywood is opening a massive ‘Mr. Men Little Miss’-themed playground which will include trampolines, a 7-metre-tall slide (that ends in a ball pit), an inflatable maze and obstacle course. www.klook.com
• Power Up The Games – You can also participate in a host of interactive sports challenges with your children though July and August at AIRSIDE in Kai Tak. There’s an Under-16 Breakdance competition on Saturday, 3 August and a virtual bicycle race, children’s fencing performances, rope skippers, competitive cheerleaders and martial artists on the weekend of 17 and 18 August!

Read More: Weekend Planner – Activities And Events For Kids And Families In Hong Kong

The post Where To Watch The Paris 2024 Olympics In Hong Kong: TV Channels, Sports Centres, Bars & Malls appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Were you one of the families swept up by the Ka-Long effect when he clinched a gold medal win in the men’s individual foil in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics? You’re not alone! Many families in Hong Kong realised the thrill that this almost delicate, fast and strategic sport brings. Fencing is also gaining popularity in schools – more than 80 secondary schools and 100 primary schools participate in various inter-school fencing competitions. If you’re keen to get your kids to learn fencing, there are plenty of Hong Kong fencing schools to choose from. Go on, we’re rooting for our next Olympic champion! En garde!

Read More: Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024 – What To Expect This Year

Hong Kong Fencing Master – Headed by two-time Olympian fencer

This fencing club in Hong Kong offers highly sought-after after-school fencing classes. Classes are conducted in English and attract students from leading international schools. With a  coach-to-student ratio of 1-to-5, your little fencers will get the attention they need to excel at the sport. Fencing can help develop your child’s reflexes, attention and even imagination and no one knows this more than Olympian fencer Lau Kwok Kin, who heads Hong Kong Fencing Master. You know your young sports star will be coached by the best – Coach Kin was the coach leading Hong Kong fencing team (including Olympic gold medallist Cheung Ka Long, Ryan Choi, etc.) when they competed at the 2023 World University Games at Chengdu where the Hong Kong team bagged gold medals in individual and team events. He believes that the values and ethics instilled through fencing will help your kids not only succeed in this fast-paced sport but also in life.

Sassy Mama Tip: Not sure if fencing is right for your child? Try Fencing Master’s summer camps for kids from 3.5 to 15 years and you just might find that the kids (and you!) would like to continue beyond the summer as well!

Use the discount code SASSYFM to get $50 off any class or summer camp. 

Hong Kong Fencing Master, 2/F Jewellery Building, 178 Queens Road Central, Hong Kong, 6900 1070, info@hkfencingmaster.com, www.hkfencingmaster.com

Fencing Podium – Fencing club in Kowloon

This Hong Kong fencing school promises to teach kids of all ages fencing. It believes that no matter what age you start at, fencing can help your independent thinking and overall sporting ability. It proudly announces its young champions achievements on its social media, so your child will always feel like a fencing champion!

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: All ages

Fencing Podium, Unit 3, 2/F, Sing Shun Centre, 495 Castle Peak Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 3974 5524, www.facebook.com/fencingpodium

Read More: How To Identify Your Child’s Talent And Hone It

Academy of Fencing (Hong Kong) – 1-on-1 and group fencing classes for kids, adults and schools

Academy of Fencing (Hong Kong) has earned its fencing cred as one of the long-running fencing schools in the city. Established in 2012, it has a 3,000 square foot facility with international standard fencing equipment. The founder and Coaching Director is an ex-Hong Kong and ex-Canada fencing team member and the school provides fencing classes to kids as young as 4 years old.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Academy of Fencing, 9/F TAL Building, 49 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9421 3579, www.academy-fencing.hk

Hong Kong Fencing School – Fencing classes for kids starting at 4 years

This well-established fencing school has two branches, in Quarry Bay and Yau Ma Tei. With its pedigree of having trained Cheung Ka Long when he was young (the fencing institute itself is disarmingly modest about it!), this is a much sough-after fencing school. Classes are conducted only in Mandarin and Cantonese.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Hong Kong Fencing School, Room 1001-1005, 10/F Gala Place, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Hong Kong Fencing School, 14/F, Kornhill Plaza-Office Tower, 1 Kornhill Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 59389848, www.fencing.com.hk

Excel Fencing – Well-equipped fencing school in Hong Kong

This fencing academy proudly claims to be the first fencing centre in Hong Kong that’s installed four 14-meter-long metal strips, which are the standard length used in competitions. It has six fencing strips, separate zones for different age groups, offering real sword and foam sword areas and large mirrors facing the fencing strips so fencers can observe and improve their skills. The staff speaks three languages and classes can be conducted for a mixed culture group of kids.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: All ages

Excel Fencing, Unit 902-03, 9/F, Marina 8, 8 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 5616 1950, www.excel-fencing.com

Fencing Sport Academy – Private and group fencing classes for kids and adults

With Hong Kong Fencing Association (HKFA) certified coaches, Fencing Sport Academy trains enthusiastic fencers of all ages and stages, from novices to Olympic-level athletes. The kids’ foil classes start at 3 years and go all the way to adults. Classes are conducted in Cantonese, Putonghua and English.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 3 years and up

Fencing Sport Academy, Room 2706-10, 27/F, Prosperity Place, 6 Shing Yip Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 3568 0155, www.fencingsport.hk

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Tennis & More

ESF Explore – After-school fencing classes

Always a good option for extracurricular activities, ESF Fencing is headed by former two-time Olympian coach, Lau Kwok Kin (founder and lead coach of Hong Kong Fencing Master mentioned above). Students go from basic skills to advanced routines and learning competition rules before they can compete with different clubs across Hong Kong.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 5 to 12 years

ESF Fencing, various locations across Hong Kong, www.esfexplore.org.hk

Fencers Club Hong Kong – Hong Kong fencing school with branches all over the city

At this fencing school, classes start at an early age with safe fencing equipment (rubber, foam, etc.) and go on to Olympic level. The large coaching team includes former Olympic representatives, former Asian Games representatives, and even those involved with the current Hong Kong representative team! It has four branches in Shek Mun, on Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Tuen Mun and you can get in touch with each branch via their respective social media accounts.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

Fencers Club Hong Kong, various locations across Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/fencersclubhongkong

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

HK Elite Fencing – Fencing classes for all ages, stages and blades

Do you know the difference between foil, epee and sabre blades and the fencing rules for each? HK Elite Fencing can explain this to your young fencers and help find the appropriate class for them. The fencing school uses its extensive international network to create training programmes, such as exchange activities with Ivy League schools and National teams.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 4 years and up

HK Elite Fencing, 10/F Landmark South, 39 Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 9013 7999, www.hkelitefencing.net

Profencing – Classes starting from pre-school years

Profencing starts fencing classes for kids as young as three years old. All equipment is provided for beginners who can then graduate to the next level. Foil fencing classes are offered for ever age group, including teens, adults and advanced fencers.

Hong Kong fencing classes for kids: 3 years and up

Profecncing, 3/F, Chinachem 333 Plaza, 333 Castle Peak Road, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2390 3292, www.profencing.hk

Read More: Where To Take Sporty And Adventurous Kids In Hong Kong

The post Hong Kong Fencing Schools For Kids: Where To Learn Fencing appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Parents who are tennis fans and hope to have Grand Slam champions in their family someday will remember Jannik Sinner‘s words on winning his first Grand Slam. “I wish everyone could have my parents… They never put pressure on me and I wish this freedom is possible for as many young kids as possible.” It was a lovely acknowledgement of the role a parent can play in the development of prodigious sporting talent. At the same time, it can be a warning for parents who’ve earned the proverbial “bad sports parent” rep by fighting with coaches, accusing selectors of bias and pushing their kids to the point of breakdown.

It’s not easy to be a sports parent – you must encourage, but not overwhelm your children; you must prepare them (and yourself) for success, but be able to accept failure; you must teach self-reliance and determination, but guide them towards the right support team… the list is endless. We’ve spoken to sports parents in Hong Kong, along with supporting players in a child’s sports journey, to guide you in your journey as a sports parent.

Read More: Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024 – What To Expect This Year

Identifying Your Child’s Sporting Talent

Usually, sporting talent is in the genes. Chances are that either parent has played a sport with some level of seriousness or is an avid fan and talks about or watches sports often. In a previous post for Sassy Mama, child psychologist, Anuprita Kalgutkar, explains the signs to spotting sporting talent early.

“If you love and live tennis and follow all Grand Slam matches on TV, your little one will instinctively know how to mimic a sliced backhand and a precise serve. Also, look out for your child’s physical readiness and at what age this develops.”

Linda, mother of professional Hong Kong China Women’s Rugby player, Natasha Olson-Thorne agrees. Though she didn’t realise her daughter’s talent, she knew she had advanced physical development when she walked as early as 8.5 months. What followed was excelling at a variety of sports in school before settling on a preferred one. Linda reiterates that parents should allow their children to participate in a range of sports – specialising too early can lead to stress injuries and burnout.

Read More: How To Identify Your Child’s Talent And Hone It

The Unique Challenges Of Being A Sports Parent

Being a parent is challenging enough, but being a sports parent requires a whole new level of dedication, hard work and sacrifice. Once you have identified your child’s sporting talent and if they are showing consistent interest and commitment, it’s best to prepare yourself for the journey ahead. If it’s a new sport or one that you’re unfamiliar with, you will need to read up about the sport. Talk to other sports parents, if possible. They will help you with understanding the basics of the game, equipment and training needed, team selection processes, important tournaments at different stages, coaching options and more.

Playing any sport requires talent, but assuming that your child has that, you will still need to back it wholeheartedly with physical, emotional, financial and logistical support. Let’s look at the physical aspect first.

Getting Physically Ready For Sports At The Highest Level

Needless to say, sports requires a lot of physical effort. Sports players requires fitness training and specific sports coaching, along with a carefully monitored diet and nutritional needs. What’s your role as a sports parent? The first would be get your child the right sports training.

Hetal Trivedi, whose 19-year-old son, Ahan, is part of the Hong Kong China Men’s Cricket team, says,

“As Indians, we love cricket and it’s a great team sport. With limited competition in Hong Kong, cricket offers a great opportunity for talented players, but be warned that there is a  dearth of cricket professionals here. We had to rely on information from friends and the internet, as well as private coaching to get Ahan the training he needed. We also made regular trips to India for expert coaching and tournament experience.”

It all paid off as at the age of 17, Ahan got his first men’s call-up for the Asia Cup Qualifiers and subsequent Asia Cup.

When it comes to finding a support team of physiotherapists, fitness trainers, sports nutritionists and more, Hong Kong scores highly as a city. Jack Capon, who is a physiotherapist with Joint Dynamics, says he personally has worked with the Hong Kong China Men’s National XV Rugby team, while other staff have experience with running, ultra marathons, Premier league football, national rugby teams, Olympic-level winter sports and national swimming programmes. And this is just one of the many sports clinics in Hong Kong, so for budding athletes there certainly is help that really is only a phone call away. He adds,

“For sure, certain sports will have more developed pathways in Hong Kong to help talented younger athletes. I have personal experience going through the pathway from youth to senior teams with HKC Rugby and I know they have a system in place to support junior athletes. The Hong Kong Sports Institute is also a valuable resource for sports included in the Olympics & Asian Games.”

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Tennis & More

Being A Sports Parent: Providing Emotional Support In A Child’s Sports Journey

This is often the hardest part of being a sports parent because emotions naturally run high when it comes to any sort of competition. A parent who has had unfulfilled sports ambitions may be guilty of thrusting his or her own dreams on a child. Similarly, any negative association or trauma with a sport can be passed on to a child subconsciously. Linda Olson says she needed to make mental and emotional adjustments when Natasha wanted to play rugby and she didn’t want her to.

“I had gone to school in Kenya in the late 70s/early 80s and had seen rugby injuries. To begin with, I told her that I would only pay for her mouth guard, she would have to pay for everything else, like club fees! When I finally went to watch her play, I knew this was her game. She was like poetry in motion, this lion-loping-pouncing person on the pitch, and it was an amazing thing to see.”

From then on, Linda has tried to do as much as she can to support Natasha and girls and women’s rugby in Hong Kong and internationally. But she admits that she has had to learn to live with some anxiety. In fact, her heart beats so fast when Natasha plays that her Fitbit thinks she’s exercising! But she admits it’s been worth it!

Some sports parents have been accused of being too pushy when it comes to their children’s sport careers. Former tennis greats like Andre Agassi and Mary Pierce have spoken openly about this, while other champions have suffered breakdowns right during what should have been the peak of their careers. Mental health practitioner, Sonia Samtani, who has worked extensively with professional race car drivers, including Dan Wells, has a word of advice for sports parents,

“Sports is a journey. It will take some wins and losses. Parents and children have to be emotionally ready for that journey. A lot of athletes go through trauma because they relate their self-esteem and self-worth to winning, and the result defines them. That is the nature of sports because a few seconds can make you a winner or loser. Sports champions need to learn to separate themselves and their value from sporting results.”

Read More: Alternative Therapy In Hong Kong – Acupuncture, Reiki And More

How To Provide Financial Support As A Sports Parent

This is a tough one! Hong Kong is an expensive city and your child pursuing a career in sports can be taxing on your wallet. Let this be part of your research and understand what the spends are likely to add up to in your child’s chosen sport.

While your child’s talent in sports may or may not bring them Olympic glory (or the equivalent highest honour), if managed judiciously, it should be enough to ensure that they have a career in sport. It should also be enough to get them sports scholarships to leading universities, both in Hong Kong and overseas.

As mentioned earlier, the Hong Kong Sports Institute offers several grants and schemes that are designed to support a potential sports champion reach the highest possible international success.

Read More: 5 Ways To Financially Prepare To Be A Parent In Hong Kong

Logistical Support When You’re a Sports Parent

They say there’s no gain without pain and it’s especially true when it comes to sports. As a sport parent, you might be expected to do a whole lot of juggling, planning and inevitably, sacrificing something to allow your child to pursue and excel at sport. This can be a very heavy burden on a family, especially if there is more than one child, and the other child does not play the same sport.

One way to go about this is to get the whole family to follow best practices, that apply not only to sports but to life in general. Be a role model to your child and develop healthy eating and fitness habits, be disciplined in your own time management, learn to respect rules and the coaches’ decisions, be a team player and don’t shirk work or slack off from your responsibilities. At the same time, not everything can be a family affair so teach your child to be independent as early on as possible.

My son’s tennis coach recently told me that he once thought that three things played an equally important role in a child’s success in the sport – the child, the coach and the parents. But over the years, he has refined his belief.

“The child, the coach, the parents and the driver!”

It was a joke, of course, but it reiterated the role logistics plays in sports success. The stereotypical soccer mom is at every game, attends every practice session and cheers louder than anyone else! Not everyone can be like her. Be realistic about your limitations as a sports parent, work out an arrangement with aunties, drivers and fellow parents. They say it takes a village to raise a child. When it comes to a child with sports talent, maybe it takes an Olympic-sized sports village!

Read More: Raising Resilient Hong Kong Kids By Teaching Them Happiness

The post Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent appeared first on Sassy Mama.

Kids are natural yogis with pure hearts and the ability to absorb what’s happening around them. If your child is constantly rushing to meet the demands of school and extracurricular activities, signing them up for kids’ yoga classes might give them the breather they need. If you’re interested in imparting the wisdom of this ancient practice to your little ones, here’s where to sign up for yoga classes that are specially designed for children.

Read More: Fitness Centres With Classes For Teens – From Muay Thai To Crossfit

Fitness In Motion – Aerial yoga & regular yoga classes for kids

Other than dance, gymnastics  and martial arts, Fitness in Motion has another way to keep your kids happy and healthy, while having loads of fun. It offers kids’ aerial yoga classes in Tung Chung and regular yoga classes in Central for ages 3 to 5, 4 to 7 and 8 to 13 years. These yoga classes allow children to discover the pure joy of moving freely, plus it increases strength and flexibility and completely aligns the spine. It also offers family shareable packages that both parents and kids can sign up for.

Yoga classes for kids aged: 3 to 13 years
Cost of kids’ classes: Starts at $1,040 for 4 classes, packages can be bought for up to 24 classes

Fitness In Motion, 11/F Jade Centre, 98 Wellington Street, Hong Kong

Fitness In Motion, Shop 105, 9 Yi Tung Road, T-Bay, Tung Chung, Hong Kong, 9744 4736, WhatsApp: 4660 9728, www.fitnessinmotionhk.com

Read More: Yoga Studios For Mamas In Hong Kong – Aerial Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Prenatal Yoga & More

Little – Yoga classes for babies and toddlers

Founded by Hong Kong mum and yoga practitioner, Jen Cooper, Little offers baby yoga classes and parent-child bonding classes with yoga moves. These sessions combine song, movement and massage to develop body and brain development in infants. In toddler yoga classes, children read a new book each week and learn yoga poses inspired by the story. Jen can also visit your home for a private yoga class.

Yoga classes for kids aged: Newborn to 3.5 years
Cost of kids’ classes: Starts at $300

Little, various locations across Hong Kong, www.little.hk

Pause – Kids’ Yoga tailored to school schedules

Making yoga fun and joyful, Pause offers regular kids’ yoga classes that run throughout the school term and holidays. It tailors timings around school and kindergarten schedules so you’ll find it super easy to find a class that fits your kiddos’ schedule here.

Yoga classes for kids aged: 3 to 5 years
Cost of kids’ classes: $200 per class for drop-ins or a package of 10 classes for $1,500

Pause, various locations across Hong Kong, 9708 0187, www.pause.hk

Read More: Back To School Anxiety – 5 Tips For Helping Your Kids Combat Those Nerves

FLEX Studio – Aerial yoga to develop good habits

Here, you’ll find aerial yoga programmes designed specifically for tweens and teens. Want to try it out before your enrol your kids for a term? Look at their yoga summer camps that are sure to appeal to fitness-oriented teens.

Yoga classes for kids aged: 11 years and over
Cost of kids’ classes: $380 per class, package of 4 classes for $1,400

FLEX Studio (Island South), 2205 and 2209, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, 2813 2212

FLEX Studio (Central), 3/F, Man Cheung Building, 15-17 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2813 2399, www.flexhk.com

Read More: 2024 Hong Kong Summer Camps – Holiday Programmes And Summer Workshops

Anahata Yoga – Kids’ yoga to improve mind-body coordination

Anahata Yoga’s kids’ yoga classes are conducted on weekend mornings where kids will learn basic poses in a playful environment to improve their flexibility and mind-body coordination. You can arrange for a free trial and decide whether this yoga class is right for your children.

Yoga classes for kids aged: 4 to 12 years
Cost of kids’ classes: $250 per class for drop-ins or a package of 10 classes for $2,000

Anahata Yoga, 18/F, One Lyndhurst Tower, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, Hong Kong, 2905 1822, www.anahatayoga.com.hk

Read More: Mental Health For Kids – How To Start The Conversation

Pure Yoga – Private yoga classes for kids

If you’re in Hong Kong, when you think of yoga studios for mums or prenatal yoga for mamas-to-be, you naturally think of Pure Yoga. This vast chain of yoga and fitness studios is currently offering private yoga classes for children. It is pricier than most of the other yoga classes for children, but the studios are offering 2-for-1 options for parents to join the yoga classes with their children.

Yoga classes for kids aged: 5 to 13 years
Cost of kids’ classes: Starts at $900 for a one-hour session

Pure Yoga, various locations across Hong Kong, www.pure-360.com.hk

Read More: Prenatal Fitness For Mamas In Hong Kong – Prenatal Yoga, Pilates And More

The Yoga Room – Kids’ yoga for overall health

The Yoga Room offers kids’ yoga classes on Saturday mornings. Through yoga poses and mindfulness, children learn useful skills that can be transferred to other sports and activities outside of the yoga mat. The Yoga Room has also tied up with leading Hong Kong schools for yoga classes for students.

Yoga classes for kids aged: From 12 years
Cost of kids’ classes: Drop in $280 per class or a package of 20 classes for $3,800

The Yoga Room, 3/F, 4/F, 6/F and 16/F, Xiu Ping Commercial Building, 104 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 6685 9097, www.yogaroomhk.com

Read More: Ultimate List Of Best International Schools In Hong Kong In 2024

More Yoga Classes For Kids In Hong Kong

• Inspire Yoga – Family yoga packages. www.inspire-yoga.com
• Luna Yoga & Dance – Kids yoga and aerial yoga studio in North Point. www.facebook.com/lunayogadancehk

Read More: Child Psychologists, Counsellors And Therapists For Children In Hong Kong

Editor’s Note: Where To Book Kids Yoga Classes In Hong Kong was most recently updated in June 2024 by Anita Balagopalan.  

The post The Best Kids’ Yoga Classes In Hong Kong appeared first on Sassy Mama.

The summer Olympics are nearly upon us and Hong Kong is revving to support its attending athletes. The world’s largest sporting event takes centre stage in Paris this year with over 10,000 athletes competing across 32 different sports. The games run from Friday, 26 July  to Sunday, 11 August 2024 with the Paralympics following from Wednesday, 28 August to Sunday, 8 September 2024. Tokyo 2020 was one of Hong Kong’s greatest games yet with plenty of excitement around its athletes’ successes and we are all hoping for another round of that in Paris 2024.

This year, Hong Kong has currently snatched up 32 places in the games and 20 places in the Paralympics but there are more to come (we hope!) as slots are still being competed for. If you’re looking for the best way to get your kids excited about the upcoming games, Sassy Mama has the lowdown on its current participating athletes and sports and and where you can watch the Olympics.

Read More: Where To Watch The Paris 2024 Olympics In Hong Kong – TV Channels, Sports Centres, Bars & Malls

Sports In The 2024 Paris Olympics: What’s New & What’s Changed

As with every Olympics, there are always a few sports that change, come or go. This year, the biggest shake-up for Hong Kong was the exclusion of karate meaning that Grace Lau Mo-sheung, who snagged a bronze in the event in Tokyo 2020, is unable to compete. According to Reuters, karate was excluded this year as it apparently lacks entertainment value and won’t bring in a younger viewing audience.

Sports Not Included In The Paris 2024 Olympic Games:

• Karate
• Softball
• Baseball

Though Hong Kong’s Olympic fans will be disappointed, there are however some great new sports that have been added to this year’s games. Some are making their appearance for the first time, while there are a couple of returning sports that have not been included in many other Olympic games.

Sports Returning To The Paris Summer Olympics 2024:

• Skateboarding
• Surfing
• Sport climbing
• 3×3 Basketball

Changes To Current Olympic Sporting Events:

• Men are now included in artistic swimming
• 13 new weight categories added for boxing
• Marathon race walk mixed relay is replacing the men’s 50km race walk

Brand New Sports Debuting At The Paris 2024 Olympic Games:

• Breakdancing or breaking
• Kayak Cross

Yep, you read that right! Breakdancing is coming to the Olympics and it should prove to be a very entertaining selection in this year’s games. So if you have a kid who loves to shake a leg at home, be sure to encourage them – they could be future Olympic winners!

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) already has plans to step up the promotion of some of these new and returning sports. This well-thought-out plan comes after there was a large surge of interest in fencing, nicknamed the “Ka-long effect” after Cheung Ka-long’s gold medal win in Tokyo in 2020. The LCSD has set aside approximately $9 million under the Sports Subvention Scheme for relevant National Sports Associations (NSA) to promote these new urban sports.

Read More: Kids’ Dance Classes In Hong Kong – Breakdancing, Ballet, Jazz, K-Pop, Hip-Hop And More

Key Athletes From Hong Kong To Watch During The 2024 Paris Olympics

While the final team selection is yet to be complete, several Hong Kong athletes have already secured their spots. Here are some of the athletes we know about already and who to keep an eye on this year.

Para Badminton: Chan Ho Yuen

Chan Ho Yuen is an Olympic veteran who will be making his seventh return to the Olympic games this year. Chan was Hong Kong’s first paralympic badminton player after he lost his leg in a car accident at the age of 22. Chan snagged a bronze in the Tokyo 2020 games in the men’s singles WH 2 division. Sadly, Chan will be retiring after the completion of the Paris Olympics.

Badminton: Tang Chun-man and Tse Ying-suet

Tang Chun-man and Tse Ying-suet are looking to top their historic run in Tokyo 2020 of which they were just shy of a bronze medal, losing to their Japanese archrivals Yuta Watanabe and Arisa Higashino. This duo are strong contenders for a medal this year.

Other great badminton athletes representing Hong Kong: Lee Cheuk-yiu (men’s singles), Lo Happy Sin-yan (women’s singles), Yeung Nga-ting and Yeung Pui-lam (women’s doubles).

Fencing: Cheung Ka-long

Everyone will be watching Cheung Ka-long this year as Hong Kong erupted with pride over his gold medal win in the men’s individual foil in Tokyo 2020, a first for Hong Kong. Cheung’s win has given him some celebrity status within Hong Kong and many will be cheering him on during these coming games hoping for another gold medal win.

Other great fencing athletes representing Hong Kong: Ho Wai-hang (men’s épée event), Vivian Kong (women’s épée), Daphne Chan (women’s foil).

Gymnastics: Shek Wai-hung

Shek Wai-hung will be representing Hong Kong this year in gymnastics. Shek was the first male to represent Hong Kong in the sport of gymnastics when he first competed in the London 2012 games.  Keep an eye out for his vault routine as he most recently won a bronze medal at the World Cup in Cairo this year.

Rowing: Chiu Hin-chun

Chiu just won the gold medal in the Lightweight Men’s Single Sculls event at the World Rowing Cup II in Switzerland at the end of May, the first one ever for Hong Kong. This outstanding achievement makes Chiu someone to watch out this summer.

Sailing: Nicholas Halliday

An ILCA 7 sailor, Nicholas won the Asian Sailing Championships & Asian Continental Paris 2024 Olympic Qualifier that was held in Thailand this year. Nicholas is the first Hong Kong sailor to qualify for the Olympics by finishing first in the Olympic qualifications. We’re excited to see what his talents bring to Paris 2024!

Other great sailing athletes representing Hong Kong: Akira Sakai and Russell Alysworth (Regatta sailing yachts).

Swimming: Siobhán Haughey

Siobhán Haughey took Hong Kong by storm during the last Olympics as she became the first Hong Kong swimmer to win an Olympic medal and the first Hong Kong athlete to win two Olympic medals in any sport. She has continued to perform well on the world stage and will be competing in five events at Paris: the women’s 50-metre freestyle, women’s 100-metre freestyle, women’s 200-metre freestyle, women’s 400-metre freestyle, as well as the women’s 4×100-metre medley relay with Stephanie Au, Camille Cheng and Natalie Kan.

Other great swimmers representing Hong Kong:
Ian Ho (men’s 50-metre freestyle), Cindy Cheung (women’s 200-metre backstroke), the team of Tam Hoi-lam, Camille Cheng,  Stephanie Au and Li Sum-yiu  (4×100 metre freestyle relay) and the team of Natalie Kan, Stephanie Au, Siobhán Haughey and Camille Cheng (4×100 metre medley relay).

Taekwondo: Lo Wai-fung

During the Olympic Games’ Asia qualification round in Shandong this year, Lo won three consecutive games in the 68kg category and he will be making his Olympic debut in Paris. Lo initially failed to make the qualification by placing third but managed to make it into this year’s Olympics after his contender was disqualified. This is the first time that Hong Kong has ever qualified for Taekwondo making it another event worth watching out for.

Table Tennis: Wong Chun-ting

Wong Chun-ting will be heading to Paris to compete in both the men’s singles event as well as in the mixed doubles event with Doo Hoi-kem. This is Wong’s third straight Olympic event and he is hoping to top his Tokyo 2020 performance.

Read More: Kids’ Sports Classes In Hong Kong

Some Hong Kong and Paris Olympic Facts

Look around you – with every mall in Hong Kong getting into the Olympic fever this summer, you can expect some Olympic-themed quizzes. Make sure your kiddo watches all the Olympic sports they are interested in (fencing or swimming, perhaps?) and let them brush up on their Olympic trivia.

• Paris has previously hosted the games in 1900 and 1924.
• Hong Kong first competed in the Olympic Games in 1952 in Helsinki.
• Hong Kong won its first medal, a gold for sailing, in 1996 in Atlanta.
• The Tokyo 2020 Olympics saw the city bring in a record number of metals with a total of six.
• The Paralympics in 2020 brought in another five medals for the city.
• Hong Kong made its debut at the Paralympics in 1972 in Heidelberg though the city has not participated in any Winter Paralympics so far.

Read More: Family Support And Being A ‘Good’ Sports Parent To Kids With Sporting Talent

The post Hong Kong At The Paris Olympics 2024: What To Expect This Year appeared first on Sassy Mama.

If you’re looking for football classes for your kids, you’ve come to the right place! Enrolling kids in a football school (or any team sports!) can do wonders for their development, confidence and overall health. Not to mention it’s the perfect chance for them to make new friends! And let’s face it, there’s no other cultural unifier like sport – it’s a universal language. Swipe through to see some of the most popular kid’s football schools and clubs in Hong Kong; there’s something for boys, girls, the barely-just-walking to older tweens and teens.

Read More: Kids’ Sports In Hong Kong – Badminton, Rugby, Football Sports Classes For Kids

Young Talent Football Team – Football classes for kids in 24 locations in Hong Kong

Founded by an experienced football coach, Young Talent Football Team provides professional English-language football courses in 24 indoor and outdoor locations around Hong Kong. It nurtures kids’ passion for football through training programmes and exchange experiences for local and overseas young elites in Hong Kong. Your child will develop social skills, self-discipline and teamwork through participating in mini-games and demo football competitions.

Age: 1.5 to 14 years

Young Talent Football Team, 17/F, 80 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, 6031 0133, www.youngtalentfootballteam.com.

Galaxy Sports Asia – Football school for toddlers up to 12 years

Have a little munchkin who loves soccer? Galaxy Sports Asia provides a multi-developmental soccer play programme for toddlers up to 5 years old, plus a soccer training programme for kids from 5 to 12 years old. Developed with passion by professional coaches and early years educators, its programmes deliver fun, challenging and diverse sessions, so your little one is sure to shine regardless of their level. Classes are available every day of the week all across Hong Kong.

Age: 2 to 5 years and 5 to 12 years.

Galaxy Sports Asia, various locations across Hong Kong, 9029 6990, www.galaxysports.asia

Hong Kong Football Club – Football classes for kids with special needs classes

Hong Kong Football Club has a junior soccer programme for young players from ages 5 to 18 years. Whether your kiddo wants to learn football as a hobby, wants to play competitively, is already a pro or has special needs, they’re sure to find the perfect fit here.

Ages: 4 to 19 years.

Hong Kong Football Club, 3 Sports Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, 2830 9500, www.hkfc.com

Read More: Special Education Needs – Resources For SEN Students In Hong Kong

Chelsea FC Soccer School – Hong Kong football classes based on Chelsea FB Foundation in the UK

Set up by former Hong Kong pro footballer, George Santos, sessions here are fun for both the boys and girl’s teams and follow the same training techniques that the Chelsea FC Foundations practice in the UK. Students will work on their reactions, concentration, ball skills and coordination. They’ll put their new tippy-tappy skills into practice in a 30-minute match, held at the end of every session.

Ages: 3 to 17 years.

Chelsea FB Soccer School, various locations across Hong Kong, info@chelseafchk.com, www.chelseafchk.com

Little Kickers – Hong Kong classes for kids with a “play not push” philosophy

If you’re looking to start them young then Little Kickers should be at the top of your list. Starting from 18 months, your little one can join in the fun up until the grand old age of 7 years old. Its football classes for kids are an age-appropriate 45 minutes and follow the mantra of “play not push” as well as “learning to learn”, so you have no need to worry that they’re under any pressure to perform.

Ages: 18 months to 7 years 

Little Kickers, various locations across Hong Kong, 6772 5870, www.littlekickers.com.hk

Read More: The Best Forest Schools In Hong Kong

Asia Pacific Soccer School – Girls-only groups available at this Hong Kong football school

Asia Pacific Soccer School run football classes all over Hong Kong every day of the week for ages 18 months to 18 years old. Its professional coaches offer elite team training, girls-only groups as well as a special goalkeeper training class. What’s more, you can enjoy one free trial class (there is no charge whether you sign up after or not!) 

Ages: 18 months to 18 years

Asia Pacific Soccer, 1503 Sunbeam Plaza, 1155 Canton Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.apsoccer.hk

Kowloon Cricket Club – Junior football training for kids classes f in Hong Kong

Despite its name, Kowloon Cricket Club’s most popular section is football, with over 250 players participating in football training, matches and more. Check out its junior football training calendar here.

Ages: 3 to 18 years

Kowloon Cricket Club, 10 Cox Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 3473 7000, info@kcc.org.hk, www.kcc.org.hk/sports-recreation/football

Ronaldo Academy – Football school offering summer courses and camps

Even the most casual football fan knows who Ronaldo is, and this academy aims to instil Ronaldo’s passion and love of the beautiful game into its students. It also offers summer courses and camps held across Hong Kong.

Ages: 5 to 17 years

Ronaldo Academy, 2834 0060, info@EG-RT.com, www.ronaldoacademy.hk

Read More: 2023 Hong Kong Summer Camps – Holiday Programmes And Summer Workshops

South China Athletic Association (SCAA) – Hong Kong football school to build basic skills

South China Athletic Association offers football courses tailored for kids and teens to help them build solid football basic skills. It also provides special seasonal courses over the summer, Easter break and Christmas break.

Ages: 4 to 16 years.

South China Athletic Association (SCAA), various locations across Hong Kong, www.scaa.org.hk

Brazilian Football Academy – Football school that aims to breed stand-up citizens in the community

The Brazil Football Academy aims not only to create top players but also to foster stand-up citizens in the community, removing the emphasis from winning and instead focusing on a player’s long-term development, sportsmanship and teamwork.

Ages: 5 to 15 years.

Brazil Football Academy, 402, 4/F, Hing Tai Commercial Building, 114, Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 3488 7724, info@bfa.hk, www.bfa.hk

Read More: Extracurricular Activities In Hong Kong – After-School Classes For Kids

Tinytots Coaching – Kids’ football classes to develop lifelong skills

Tinytots coaching runs a football school for kids aged 18 months to 4 years old that help them develop the necessary skills to succeed inside and outside the classroom environment. Parents can join in too, supporting their little one at Tinytot’s parent and child introduction class!

Ages: 18 months to 4 years.

TinyTots, 402, 4/F, Hing Tai Commericial Building, 114, Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 3488 7724, info@tinytots.com.hk, www.tinytots.com.hk

LaLiga Football Schools Hong Kong – Special football training methodology designed for children

LaLiga Football Schools Hong Kong uses its special LaLiga training methodology designed by its professionals. Kids will not only learn to play football, but also enhance their skills, fitness, stamina, understanding of the game, tactical awareness, teamwork and creativity.

Ages: All ages.

LaLiga Football Schools Hong Kong, Shop 202, 2/F, Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, 33 Shing Fung Road, Kowloon, WhatsApp: 5112 6482, coach@laligafootballschoolshk.com, www.laligafootballschoolshongkong.com

Liverpool Football Club International Academy – Football school for beginner and experienced kids

With football academies all around the world, Liverpool Football Club provides young players an opportunity to develop, learning new techniques and skills under the guidance of its coaching staff. It offers a foundation course for those who have never played football before, plus a youth training programme that focuses on improving physical strength, football techniques, tactical knowledge and more.

Ages: 3 to 16 years.

Liverpool Football Club International Academy, various locations across Hong Kong, 2543 1807, info@lfcacademy.hk, www.lfcacademy.hk

Kinder Kicks HK – Football classes for kids to develop motor skills and social skills in early years

Got a teeny tot who loves to kick? Enrol them at Kinder Kicks HK, a football play programme run by Asia Pacific Soccer School for children who can walk to 5 years old. Classes are full of fun – it uses special equipment including bean bags and mini footballs that develop a young child’s motor skills, while teaching valuable social skills. Classes are held in English, Cantonese and Mandarin.

Ages: Walking to 5 years old.

Kinder Kicks, 1503 Sunbeam Plaza, 1155 Canton Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.kinderkicks.hk/soccer-kinder-kicks-hk

Read More: International Pre-Nursery, Kindergartens And Preschools In Hong Kong

More Football Classes For Kids In Hong Kong

• Minisport – Multi-activity sports class, including football, for children aged 18 months to 6 years old. www.minisport.hk
• Sai Kung Sharks – Football for toddlers to 14 years old. Girls-only football is available. www.saikungsharksfc.com
• HK Dragons – Offers football lessons and camps for kids ages 3 and over. www.dragons.hk
• Paris Saint-Germain Academy Hong Kong – Football programme catering to all abilities and all levels, for ages 3 to 17 years. www.psgacademyhongkong.com
• ESF Lions – After-school football programme for all levels. www.esf.org.hk/football

Editor’s Note: Best Hong Kong Football Schools For Kids And Teens was most recently updated in April 2023 by Najuka Redkar. 

The post Best Hong Kong Football Classes For Kids And Teens appeared first on Sassy Mama.