I
n this issue – All Kinds of Kids – we are focusing on the differences that make our children who they are.
We
kick-start our three-part series on autism
– which we know is such an important
topic for so many families – with a comprehensive guide, examining what autism is, the common myths
surrounding the condition, how to get a diagnosis, and how to start to deal with that diagnosis. Look out
for follow-up pieces in the next two issues of
Playtimes
, covering what
treatments, therapies
and
educational provisions
are available for children on the autistic spectrum here in Hong Kong, and –
crucially – how to get as much
support
as possible, not just for a child with autism, but also for
parents
and
siblings
. Recruiting the right helper in a family with special needs can also present additional
challenges, so we have advice on that, too.
In
this issue
we are also taking a look at some
alternative therapies
that might benefit our
kids – such as
essential oils, music, yoga, pilates
and
nutrtional therapy
– and we
take an in-depth look at the role of
speech therapists
.
The wonderful
Hong Kong Young Writers Awards
proved to be a great success once again,
so we are sharing some of the highlights.
And since summer is right around the corner, we know that you organised parents are already wondering
how to entertain the little ones through the long, hot months. We have it covered with our comprehensive
summer camps round-up
. Check it out on page 66.
If you are looking for fun activities before then,
Le French May arts festival hits Hong
Kong this month
– we hope you get the chance to take part and indulge your inner Francophile and
savour the visual arts, classical and contemporary music, dance, cinema and fashion.
Lastly, as it’s
Mothers’ Day on the 8th
, we’d like to acknowledge all you caring, hard-working and
loving mummies out there. It’s no easy task being a mum but it sure is pretty great nonetheless.
Happy reading!
Freya Paleit
Editor-in-Chief
welcome
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