Singapore's Child April 2015 Preview

Art attack

singapore's

Your Lifestyle & Practical Family Resource

Hello, Anyone In There?

A peek inside the brain of a curious child

Pop Art Meets Makeup Who says mums can’t have fun beauty products?

Are We Pushing Our Kids Too Hard?

The truth about giving our child music lessons

art

smart Children and creativity Arts and music are key to their development apr 2015 Issue 161 $4.50 (Incl. GST)

Your trusted choice for clean drinking water

snips & snaps

Drink yourself Beautiful To ensure that we look good on the outside, we must also make it a point to keep our insides healthy.

The LANEIGE Collagen Drink ($52 for 10 bottles, LANEIGE counters) has

been formulated for easy absorption by the body to help give brighter and well-hydrated skin. Made from the scales of tilapia fish, the drink also includes elastin sourced from the aortic bulb of the bonito fish, together with red orange and pomegranate extract, which gives it that delicious fruity flavour.

Smooth Operator Is your skin looking less than its best? Fret not; we’ve got the solution for you. For all-day long moisturising benefits, try out the new NIVEA In-Shower Skin Conditioners ($7.90 - $14.90, personal care stores)

that comes in three variants for normal, dry and dull skin. Rich in vitamins, these rinse-off formulas will leave your limbs as soft as silk.

Your Preferred Water Dispenser Save kitchen space with the DS-6 Mini Desktop/Wall Mounted Water Dispenser with 4-stage filtration system ($688) from WasserTec. Available in other variations – alkaline and/or anti-oxidant – this handy gadget comes in white, silver and red. why the DS-6 is right for you

1

With its advanced ultra-filtration system, the DS-6 eliminates the smell and taste of your drinking water for a cleaner, fresher water.

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Enjoy a perfect cup of hot water any time of the day, without having to wait for a large kettle to boil.

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It has great features and we love its slim design, energy saving properties, economical value and ability to retain minerals in water!

delight

Foot Faults

Learn about common foot problems in children and the possible solutions.

Cause

Treatment

Prevention

Friction makes the outer layer of skin separate from the lower layers.

Keep it clean and bandaged, and apply antibiotic ointment if it ruptures. You can use a sterilised needle to carefully poke a hole in the side of a blister to release the fluid.

Ensure that your children wear socks with their sneakers. Apply petroleum jelly on problem spots to reduce friction.

Scaly, itchy skin or painful cracks between toes are caused by a fungus that likes dark or wet environments.

Thoroughly wash and dry feet, and apply an over-the-counter athlete’s foot spray. Check with your paediatrician if symptoms don’t improve in three to four days.

Don’t let your kids share shoes. Frequently air out their shoes and insoles, and have them wear sandals at public pools.

Ingrown Toenails

If the big toenail hasn’t been cut straight across, it can dig into the skin.

Ease pain and swelling by soaking the foot in warm water three to four times a day for 20 to 30 minutes. You can stick a small piece of rolled cotton or gauze under the edge of the nail after the soak to promote proper growth.

Trim nails straight across so they don’t extend past the tip of your child’s toe.

Plantar Wart

These hard, painful growths on the sole are caused by a strain of the human papilloma virus.

Start with over-the-counter wart remedies. However, plantar warts are often resistant and need prescribed medication.

Sometimes, a dermatologist or podiatrist will burn, cut or laser off the wart.

Don’t let your children share shoes, and do ensure that they wear sandals.

Young children can bump a toe when they’re learning to walk or if they’re barefoot.

Apply an ice pack. If your kids can’t move their toe, the nail is loose or detached, or there’s blood under more than one third of their nail, bring them to see a doctor.

Try to cushion or remove low-lying hard edges around your home and keep high traffic areas clear.

Blister

Athlete’s Foot

Stubbed Toe

Discover the perfect everyday footwear for your kids!

SC r ecom m en d s … Junior Sandal Strike – Pirates Collection ($75-$85, GEOX stores)

for its appealing look and style. This kid’s sandal with a pirate design and cemented construction offers long-lasting durability and wear. There is velcro strap closure for easy on/off, adjustability and secure, traditional fit, and it is made from 100 percent waterproof neoprene and rubber. The exclusive patented breathable sole offers cushioning support and moisture control to keep your child’s feet cool and dry. This sandal is also smart enough to wear all day, every day!

CRAFTWORK Khaili Teoh Styling Nicco Lim assisted by Khaili Teoh Photography Justin Loh

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On Julius: Long-sleeved striped shirt (layered underneath), $70 & T-shirt, $60, both from Polo Ralph Lauren; Pants, $47.90, Gingersnaps; Shoes, $99, GEOX On LĂŠonie: Bejewelled blouse (layered underneath), $45.90 & Tribal jacket, $75.90, both from Gingersnaps; Skirt, $69.90, Monsoon Children, Shoes, $59.90, Gingersnaps

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Fashion and music make a quick appearance in this issue.

As much as you should encourage your child to try new things, like learning to play a musical instrument, the same applies when trying different types of clothing for your child. You can mix and match styles as you go to create your mini star’s very own look.

Photography Justin Loh

Art Direction Geraldine Tan

Fashion assistant shaistah Munawar

Fashion Stylist Raja Jumira

Makeup & Hairstyling Ou Yu HuI

Models Julius Fliss & Léonie Fliss location Aureus Academy (http://aureusacademy.com) Musical instruments Courtesy of Aureus Academy

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art & music issue

turn to the arts Find out how the arts can help your child to develop a better sense of self.

By Fiona Walker

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T

he author Thomas Merton (19151968) said, “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” Many of us may have spent time pondering these states of being at some stage or another in our lives.

And whether we find clear answers or not, the processes of introspection and self-reflection in themselves can help us to understand our values, our ideals and who we are.

But what is a sense of self exactly? Is it something we are born with or something we acquire as we develop? And if the latter is the case, how can we help our children along with this process of self-development?

Recent studies conducted by the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development at the University of London concluded that most babies are self-aware from the minute they are born. A newborn’s sense of vision and touch help him to understand that his body is his own. Also, studies over the past two decades have frequently concluded that a newborn who hears another newborn cry in distress will start crying himself.

This suggests that from the very beginning, children have a sense of self in relation to their environment, and respond accordingly.

We all arrive with our unique DNA but gaining a deep sense of self can take a lifetime to develop. As parents, we strive to ensure that our children grow up happy, confident in their abilities and content with who they are – and as we all know, there is much out there to influence them otherwise! There are a number of ways that we can help young children gain a better sense of self – and engagement in the arts is one of them.

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art & music issue

Who Painted It? You might recognise some of these world-famous paintings, but do you know who painted each one?

Guernica Guess the painter?

This painting speaks out against war. Created in 1937 in response to the bombing of Guernica, a village in northern Spain, the painting shows the tragedies war causes humanity, especially to the innocents.

The Starry Night Guess the painter?

The Scream

Mona Lisa

Guess the painter?

Guess the painter?

There are four different versions of this painting between 1893 and 1910.

Its original German title translates as The Scream of Nature, and was inspired by a sunset that the painter witnessed in ill health.

This painting is often referred to as the best-known, most visited, most written about and most parodied work of art in the world. It was painted between 1503 and 1506.

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Answers: Guernica – Pablo Picasso, The Starry Night – Vincent van Gogh, The Scream – Edvard Munch, Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci

Painted in 1899, this is a postImpressionist piece currently on show at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, USA. It depicts the village of Saint-Rémy in southern France under a swirling sky.

museums to visit with kids

2 Apr – 1 May

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The Three Billy Goats Gruff DBS Arts Centre Following the hugely successful production of Goldilocks and the Three Bears and The Three Little Pigs, SRT’s The Little Company presents the third and final instalment of its Trio-series.

Step into the magical, fairytale world of The Three Billy Goats Gruff – a musical that is guaranteed to be snortingly silly and full of giggles.

6 Apr, 4 May & 1 June

2

Prudential Singapore Eye Exhibition ArtScience Museum Your Mondays won’t be so blue with this piece of good news! Visitors to ArtScience Museum can enjoy free entry to the Prudential Singapore Eye exhibition every first Monday of each month. Free guided tours of the exhibition will also be conducted at 5pm. This exhibition shines the spotlight on 17 emerging and established Singapore artists.

National Museum of Singapore The oldest museum in Singapore, it features a children’s gallery, called PLAY@NMS, which includes an outdoor play area, as well as interactive and digital exhibits to engage the kiddos.

www.nationalmuseum.sg

Images of Singapore LIVE History literally comes alive at the revamped Images of Singapore! Come face-to-face with articulate live actors who are dressed in period costumes to provide personal perspectives on pivotal points in Singapore’s history. Combined with the use of props and clever animation, visitors are taken on a timetravelling trip into Singapore’s past.

www.imagesofsingaporelive.com 29 Apr – 24 May

3

The Tempest Fort Canning Park Spread your picnic blanket under the stars and immerse yourself in the magic of The Tempest, Shakespeare’s final play. Get drawn into Prospero’s world of sorcery and magic where nothing is what it seems.

This year’s production will be the grandest to date, with the tallest set ever built in Singapore.

1-3 May

4

The Fantastical Story Factory SOTA Drama Theatre A musical adventure which will have you exploring magical kingdoms, meeting wonderful characters and singing along by the end. YOU decide where the story is set, what happens next and who the characters are. An improvised musical adventure for kids of all ages – and adults who act like kids!

Tickets for the above plays are available on SISTIC website.

ArtScience Museum Exhibitions change regularly, each with special projects dedicated to children. Creative workshops and family performances are available too; check the website for specific dates.

www.marinabaysands.com

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art & music issue

sound of Music You might be thinking of enrolling your child in music classes, but when’s the right time to start?

By Rachel Yohannan

M

usic is a great mind-opener. Young children who have been exposed to music a lot often end up better in Mathematics than their peers. Even children with mental disabilities or behavioural problems have been able to use music as a form of therapy. With such benefits to reap, it is no surprise that more parents are signing their kids up for music lessons; perhaps you may be considering that too.

As someone who started piano lessons at the tender age of four myself, I would say that my musical journey started quite ‘accidentally’. I had a toy keyboard with coloured stickers on it, which came with a music score for simple tunes. The score did not come with actual music notes, but with coloured dots that corresponded to the stickers on the keys. My parents saw that I was able to follow the score quite naturally, and I seemed to have a good sense of rhythm.

Never too early

This is an example of how aptitude and interest can also be factors for starting music classes, despite a child not even being at the age for formal schooling. So, if your child expresses curiosity in learning an instrument, why not let them give it a go?

Each child is different in their formative years, and age is not the only factor that determines how ready they are to begin music lessons. Lawrence Holmefjord-Sarabi, concert pianist and managing director of Aureus Academy of Music, cites physical dexterity, concentration, and memory as some of the other variables to be considered. He recommends that children start learning an instrument around the age of four, though his music school has also had a number of students starting at an even younger age.

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The right pick Exposure to any musical instrument would be beneficial for children, especially if they show particular interest for a specific one. However, Lawrence personally believes that

the piano would be best for young beginners as it can help lay a strong musical foundation, as well as develop motor skills and coordination through the use of both hands.

He also feels that at the earliest stage, the piano is most immediately accessible.

Goals to achieve According to Celine Goh, general manager of Steinway Gallery Singapore, “There are no immediate goals of music lessons, but rather, life-long assets that will see your child through teenage and adulthood. Studies have shown a strong correlation between music education and the development of skills that children need to become successful in life”.

She adds, “In the study of music, skills such as self-discipline, patience, sensitivity, coordination, and the ability to memorise and concentrate are all tangible values in the social and business worlds.”

As for grading examinations, Celine feels that they provide recognition

and a sense of accomplishment.

“Choosing to go for graded examinations will further enhance the development of skills that are associated with music. However, pushing the child too hard might instil a fear and general dislike of the instrument and music learning.”

Lawrence concurs, recommending that exams function as a meaningful part of a learning process, and not just an end goal. He says, “The key to success in keeping children interested in music is developing a regular routine at home. Children thrive on structure, and it’s critical that regular practise, even if only for five to 10 minutes, becomes a part of a daily routine through fun games and activities, not just scales and exercises.”

Both of them agree that parents play a significant role in shaping a joyful learning experience for children.

A positive approach that focuses on appreciation and enjoyment rather than results alone would allow children to have a good experience as well. Giving little encouraging rewards like stickers from time to time won’t hurt either.

Celine suggests musical outings, which expose children to different musical genres as a fun way of keeping them interested in music. “A jazz concert or a musical, especially with performances by talented musicians, are experiences that would certainly expand your child’s musical horizons.”

At the end of the day, music is something meant to soothe the soul, not stress it out. It all depends on your child’s preferences and what they are comfortable with, so it is important to strike the right balance where happiness and satisfaction goes hand in hand with learning.

T ry t he s e i n t e ract i v e m u sic -re l at e d act i v i t i e s f o r yo u r yo u n g o n e s

1

Pi an o pat t er n s Sit at a piano with your child, point out a progressive pattern of notes, and have your child imitate it. Go slowly, from single notes to double notes, and later on, simple melodies.

2

H i gh an d l o w so u n d s Try playing the highest and lowest notes of a piano and ask your child what the sounds remind them of.

Perhaps, there is an animal or image that comes to mind?

3

B l ac k k eys, whi t e k eys Have your child count groups of black and white keys on a piano. Try getting them to “hop” from groups of two black keys and three black keys to notice how the keys are arranged.

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family

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Steps to Finding Work-Family Balance Do you and your partner both try to get a number of things done at once?

Here’s how you can strike a balance between work and family.

By Raja Jumira

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family

M

ention “work-family balance” to a roomful of working women who have children, and the response you’ll probably get is semihysterical laughter... followed by tired sighs. It is no small feat to carve out a life that balances all of your many needs and responsibilities, yet doesn’t make you feel like you’ve turned into a mouse endlessly running on a wheel. We share with you eight strategies that can help you get there.

Truth be told, we are multitasking more than ever: juggling parental duties, working increasing hours and keeping up with household chores. But rather than feelings of efficiency, multitasking often produces stress and anxiety. We share with you eight strategies that can help you get there.

1

First and foremost, stop multitasking!

Instead of trying to do several things at once, plan your day so that you have blocks of time (even if they’re only 10 or 15 minutes long) where you are working exclusively on one thing.

“Because I was able to give 100 percent to whatever I was focused on – managing my blocks of time without multitasking – I was more effective at my job than I had ever been before,” Teresa Taylor – who, at the pinnacle of her career, was among the highest paid on Fortune’s ‘Most Powerful Women’ list – writes in her book, The Balance Myth: Rethinking Work-Life Success.

2

Don’t be list-less

When it comes to keeping on top of things, lists are essential. I write down all of the things that need to get done over the next few days. It’s usually a combination of my son’s things (white glue and ice cream sticks for Art & Crafts lesson on Thursday), personal (call dentist for appointment), and business (e-mail Sylvia to schedule a meeting and recce for photo shoot).

SC suggests…

Using a notepad and dividing it into three sections: Home, Work, Play. You might work better when you can have a list that balances fun and work and socialising.

But don’t make your to-do list so detailed and unreasonable that it’s not doable. I find lots of mums are sunk before they even get started for the day by placing too many demands on themselves. Stay focused and prioritise. I always say, at the end of the day, if we got nothing else done besides keeping everyone alive, it was a great day!

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3

Share the chores

Chores are not just women’s work – they’re everyone’s work! Putting your kids on a schedule of daily chores won’t just lighten your load, it will also teach them a valuable lesson about the importance of everyone doing their part.

Aneela Wasim, an avid SC reader, tells us that she puts her whole family to work on schedule, including her 15- and 12-year-old daughters and 10-year-old son.

“We have five major jobs that we rotate among the five of us (husband included) each week,” Aneela says.

“Emptying all trash cans throughout the house (the kitchen garbage gets emptied more often), vacuuming all floors, wash the family car, cleaning the bathrooms, and folding laundry. All jobs must be done

by Saturday night and then we change the person in charge on Monday. No one complains because we all share the responsibility equally.” The end result: The work gets done and Aneela has a few more minutes to carve out for herself!

showcase 1 2

RED Valentino + Disney Snow White Collection

For hER 3

Pop Out with Pop Art It’s time to channel your inner Andy Warhol and start planning your artsy attire.

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For hIM

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When Pop Art Meets Fashion

For her

1. Breo classic pop art baby pink watch, approx. $31, www.breo.com 2. Hello Stranger clutch, approx. $410, Kate Spade New York 3. Anya Hindmarch Coco Pops clutch, $2,070, Polyvore 4. Bugaboo Bee³ + Van Gogh collection – Almond Blossom, approx. $145-$1,200, www.pishposhbaby.com 5. Charlotte Olympia + Boyarde Messenger collection – Dolly platform pumps, price unavailable 6. Candy Furla Painting satchel, $860, Furla boutiques 7. Quay retro pink glitter pop art sunglasses, price unavailable, Nordstrom

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For him

8. Ketna Patel cushion covers (without inserts), price unavailable, www.ketnapatel.com 9. Adhesive Notes set, $9.90, kikki.K 10. Seven Rays guitar pop art laptop skin, approx. $7, www.fabfurnish.com 11. SPRZ NY Keith Haring graphic tank top, $24.90, Uniqlo 12. Paul Smith multi striped button cufflinks, approx. $210, Club 21 eShop 13. ’Drink Moschino’ iPhone 5 case, approx. $138, Net-A-Porter 14. Eastpak bag, approx. $93, Asos 15. Christopher Kane multi-coloured slip-ons, approx. $696, Club 21 eShop

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beauty fix

Artistic Vibes 01.

Apart from their flashy exteriors, you’ll also love the quality of these beautiful beauties!

03.

02.

05.

04.

09.

07.

06.

08.

1 The Balm Put A Lid On It Eyelid Primer, $24, Luxola 2 Too Faced Beauty Wishes & Sweet Kisses Palette, $49, Sephora Kellogg's 50s Vintage Matchbox Nail Files, $7.28 for a set of 3, Asos 4 Ted Baker Allana Cascading Floral Wash Bag, $75, Ted Baker stores 5 Paul & Joe Limited Edition Lipstick Case, $16.98 each, Asos 6 MAC Wan Bao Bao Lipstick in Lavender Jade, $33, MAC Ngee Ann City, Robinsons Orchard and Tangs Orchard 7 Tarte Cheek Stain in Blushing Bride, $47, Sephora 8 Vera Wang Princess Power EDT, $68 for 30ml, Robinsons Raffles City & Tangs Vivocity 9 Paul & Joe Limited Edition Face & Eye Colour Kelly Thompson Limited Edition Mascara Gal Makeup Bag, $24.26, Asos in Zebra, $60.65, Asos 3

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10.

The No-Knife Eye Lift Whether you have puffy eyes, dark circles, crows feet or just tired-looking peepers, we've included some of the best eye creams for nourishing, protecting and reviving in our round-up.

By Raja Jumira

belif Peat miracle revital eye cream ($71 for 25ml, belif stores) The claim: Enhances skin elasticity, and prevents fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area.

SC says… This is our new all-time favourite!

It goes on smoothly, has powerful moisturising abilities that soften the fine lines, and relieve any tightness you may feel in the eye area. You don't need a lot to get great coverage, and the tub packaging means you'll be able to use every last bit. It really brightens – no matter how tired or dull your eyes looked, a little of this in the morning really brightened up the area and even concealed some darkness.

SAVE!

The Body Shop Vitamin E Eye Cream ($30.90 for 15ml, The Body Shop stores) The claim: Moisturises skin and helps limit the appearance of fine lines, dark circles and puffiness.

SC says… Do not be fooled by the small

package – just the tiniest drop of this eye cream does the trick. It rubs into the skin easily and moisturises nicely. The cooling effect really makes your skin feel refreshed and revitalised. Another bonus is that this eye cream does not leave your skin feeling greasy. It rubs in and dries to a nice matte finish. Use it twice a day – every morning and before going to bed at night.

philosophy’s Brighten My Day - Expert Dark Circle Brightening and Perfecting Eye Cream ($58 for 10ml, philosophy stores) The claim: Targets all kinds of dark circles and under-eye dark spots, as well as blue and brown hues of discolouration to give you luminous, bright eyes that look bigger and more beautiful.

SC says… The small tube makes it easy to get just the

right amount of product out, and the cream has a silky smooth texture. You only need a small amount, and it absorbs very quickly. It moisturises well and you will notice a positive effect on the dark rings under your eyes. Sure, it might be pricey, but it's because it works – really, really well.

La Mer’s The Eye Concentrate ($300 for 15ml, La Mer counters) The claim: Reduces the appearance of

eye circles, lines and wrinkles.

Major Indulgence

dark

SC says… La Mer – the crème de la crème

– the most expensive product in our list. We'll admit, we initially fell in love with this eye cream just because of the way it made us feel (it's fresh and cooling, like a tiny spa under our eyes). As fancy as it is (it's even got a silver-tipped applicator!), it's just as effective.

When we saw how much brighter, smoother, and softer our under-eyes looked – thanks to the Miracle Broth in the formula – we knew our feelings were real.

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Z o n D I e K KID

& B S 12 ELO W

APRIL 2015 ISSUE 161

ARE YOU READY TO MEET

STUART KEVIN &BOB?

18 JUNE 2015

r

Discove

FREE

ms

r earthwo in then garde

The lives of a

cell

PS Blog Boo with our k April Iss ue

Paint your favourite zoo animal and present your copy of PS‌ My Pals and Secrets Issue 4 to redeem a Kid's Sling Bag and a $10 Marks & Spencer shopping voucher at Plaza Singapura. Refer to page 2 for details.

EARTH DAY

e t a r b e l e C

o W r ld r u O

Earth Day reminds everyone to take care of our environment!

Earth Day was created on 22 April 1970 to bring attention to environmental problems, such as air, water and land pollution.

It taught people about actions they could take to help keep the planet clean, such as recycling, and pushed governments to pass environment protection laws.

Now, every year, Earth Day is celebrated around the world.

It's a time to appreciate the beauty of our planet, learn about new challenges and how to take action, and renew efforts to work toward a clean world.

e l b e r C ation r u o Y Encourage your friends to stop using plastic water bottles.

Join in the Earth Day spirit!

Here are some ideas.

Organise a community clean-up on Earth Day.

Bring a reusable bag when you shop.

Take shorter showers and use less water when brushing your teeth.

QUIZ 1

The idea for Earth Day came from an environmentalist in Ireland. ( ) True ( ) False

2

The Amazon rainforest is sometimes called “Earth's green lung�. ( ) True ( ) False

3

Paper grocery bags are a better environmental choice than plastic bags. ( ) True ( ) False

pollution - the presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance, which has harmful or poisonous effects renew - resume (an activity) after an interruption community - a group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common

3

Answers: 1. False

2. True

3. False

THE WORLD AROUND US

Don't use things just once! Recycling makes old things new and saves our planet's resources.

e c i As w T Go

od

One of the easiest ways to go green -- take care of the Earth and protect our natural resources -- is for everyone to recycle whatever they can.

What It Is

Recycling is the process of reusing a product beyond its intended life or producing a new product from

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recyclable materials. It is most commonly associated with re-manufacturing old goods and turning them into new products. However, it can also be as simple as passing on your old clothes to a friend or charity.

It preserves our resources.

There are more people on the planet every day using our resources. If we don't preserve them, one day they'll be gone.

Make A Difference Can one person really help keep the whole planet green just by recycling? Yes, especially if everyone does their part!

It saves energy.

Manufacturers don't have to produce something new from raw natural resources, so manufacturing consumes less energy.

If you throw one aluminium can into a landfill, it will still be a can 500 years from now! But recycle it and it can be back on the store shelf as a new can in just 60 days.

Recycling just one plastic bottle can save enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for six hours.

Now imagine if everyone in the world recycled!

It reduces landfills.

If we're recycling, we're throwing away less, which means we need fewer landfills.

Why Recycle?

Recycling is good for the Earth (and for us) in lots of ways.

What's New? Match the plastic bottles, newspapers and aluminium cans below with the two numbered items that can be made by recycling these materials.

1

B

2

C

3

4

5

6

Answers: A - 1 & 6, B - 2 & 4, C - 3 & 5

A

charity - the voluntary giving of help, typically in the form of money, to those in need manufacturing - making (something) on a large scale using machinery preserve - maintain (something) in its original or existing state landfills - the disposal of waste material by burying it, especially as a method of filling in and reclaiming excavated pits

STORY

: s r e p m u Time J

r e p e e k e m i T e Th The story so far: Grace and John download a magical app on their iPad that allows them to travel back through time. The app is created by the Timekeeper, who needs their help to find five items scattered in different time periods. These items will help them free the Timekeeper, who has been imprisoned. When we last left them, the children had just found the fifth item.

By Wong Maeli

As soon as the magical iPad app had returned the children back home safely, John ran to his bed. He searched under it and retrieved a box.

“The fifth item,” he said as he placed the Golden Scarab from the palace into it. Now the box had a compass, a medallion, a sundial, a handkerchief and finally a scarab.

No sooner had he done this that the children heard the familiar “ding ding” sound coming from the iPad. “It's a message from the Timekeeper!” Grace said as she turned on the iPad.

“Greetings Travellers! You have all the items now! Come and rescue me! Search for 'Bubbly Future' in the Time Jumpers app.”

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As John held on to the box, Grace launched the app and pressed the 'Bubbly Future' button. A picture of a glass city appeared on the screen. There was another button in the middle of the screen that said “Take me there!”

Grace pressed the button and a bright light shone out from the iPad and filled the whole room. This was followed by a loud “whooshing” sound. Then the light slowly disappeared. The children found themselves in a big bubble.

“Huh?” Grace asked. “What's this?”

“Look,” John pointed out. All around them were bubbles floating around the streets of a city. “I think this bubble is some kind of a vehicle.”

Just then, a voice spoke from the bubble. “Welcome.

Please state your destination,” it said. Grace and John looked at each other. What was their destination?

Where was the Timekeeper being imprisoned?

“Er…” John tried. “Take us to see the Timekeeper.”

“That destination is unknown. Please try again,” the voice replied.

“Er…” Grace tried instead. “Take us to the place where the Timekeeper is being kept.” This time, the voice did not reply immediately. There was a soft whirring sound in the bubble. Then, the voice spoke, “I'm sorry, but you do not have the necessary clearance.”

The twins looked at each other again. “How do we get clearance?” Grace whispered to John. John thought for a moment, and then he said to the bubble, “Could you ask the Timekeeper if he will give us clearance?” He wasn't sure if it would work but surprisingly, the voice replied, “Please wait a moment.”

While the children waited, soft music played and lights danced around on the inside walls of the bubble.

Grace looked around at the buildings outside. They seemed to be made of colourful glass, like giant stained glass windows.

“Clearance has been granted,” the voice said suddenly as the twins beamed at once another. “Begin journey.”

Then, the bubble lifted off, and Grace and John found themselves flying through the sky.

“Woah!” John said as bubbles narrowly missed bumping into one another.

“Look out!” Grace said, as another bubble began flying towards them at high speed. The children braced themselves for an impact, but the two bubbles simply bounced off one another.

“That was fun!” John said. “Let's bounce off another bubble!” Unfortunately, he was unable to find a steering wheel in the bubble so they had to let the bubble drive itself. Finally, the bubble left the city and began flying towards some mountains. At the top of one mountain, there was a clearing. The bubble began slowing down and finally stopped at the clearing.

“We have reached our destination,” the voice announced.

The twins expected a door to open in the bubble to let them out, but nothing happened.

“Er, bubble,” John said after a while. “How do we get out?”

“Please pop the bubble,” the voice replied.

“Pop the bubble?” Grace said incredulously. John shrugged and lifted his finger to poke the wall of the bubble. There was a popping sound and the bubble disappeared. “Wow! Cool!” both twins said at once. Then, they took in their surroundings and immediately became more serious.

A door suddenly appeared on the face of the mountain.

11

SCIENCE FACTOR

Dr. Scott's Introduction to

s l l e C

14

This engaging spotlight on cells details discoveries relating to cells and offers some fascinating facts about the building blocks of life.

By Dr. Scott Poh

Blood cells move throughout the body, carrying nutrients from the food you eat, as well as oxygen and carbon dioxide when you breathe.

Skin cells divide and reproduce quickly. Did you know that scalp is made up of dead skin cells?

Scalp is formed when your outer layer of skin cells start to die and dry up (and eventually peel off).

1.37 meters

Muscle cells are attached to one another. They stay in one place holding your body and bones together.

Zooming In In biology, the cell is the basic structure of organisms.

All cells are made by other similar cells. All living things are made up of cells, and yes, even most germs, such as bacteria, are cells too.

The longest cells in the human body are the nerve cell called motor neurons.

They can be up to 1.37 metres long and run from the lower backbone (spinal cord) to the big toe.

Cells Are Us Hair and nails are not made up of cells. Not all germs are cells either. Virus is not a cell, as it is not a living organism. They lack any form of energy (cannot swim nor move) and cannot even reproduce by itself.

All cells are made or reproduce by other similar cells. Viruses are only able to reproduce when they enter other cells and use other cells to help them reproduce. So, the next time you come down with the flu or a cold, you know who's behind it!

Nerve cells help to transmit signals throughout your whole body, so you know what it's like to feel hot or cold, or even when you're in pain.

Red blood cells are created inside the bone marrow of your bones. Did you know that bone marrow consists of baby blood cells?

organisms - an individual animal, plant, or single-celled life form nutrients - a substance that provides nourishment essential for the maintenance of life and for growth bone marrow - a soft fatty substance in the cavities of bones, in which blood cells are produced

15

ANIMAL PLANET

W n i e g d r gler a G s In this issue, we excavated earthworms in the backyard.

Meet the Earthworm An earthworm is a small animal that tunnels through soil. An earthworm's body is made up of tiny rings covered in hairs. These hairs help the worm move through soil.

Similar to a human body, the hearts pump blood through the worm's body.

Earthworms are invertebrates. Instead of bones, an earthworm's body is filled with fluid.

Earthworms have external skeletons that protect their insides. Earthworms have five hearts.

Some earthworms have pinkish bodies, and others are green or brown.

Earthworms cannot see, but they can sense light.

Sensors on their bodies can tell them if it is light or dark outside their burrow.

Backyard Buddies

Backyard Buddies

Earthworms play an important role in keeping soil

earthworms throughsoil soil, they make Earthwormshealthy. play anAsimportant roletunnel in keeping healthy. holestunnel in thethrough ground soil, that they allowmake oxygen andinwater As earthworms holes the to enter. Tunnelling also mixes plant matter from the ground that allow oxygen and water to enter. Tunnelling also surface deep into the ground. mixes plant matter from the surface deep into the ground.

As the plant matter breaks down, nutrients enter the

As the soil. plantPlant matter breaks down,deeper nutrients roots can grow and enter stronger as a the soil.

Plant roots can grow deeper and stronger result. as a result.

16

Types of Worm There are about 2,700 types of earthworms.

MEDUSA WORM: Lives deep in the mud volcanoes of the Atlantic Ocean

GIANT BLUE WORM: Resides in Borneo and the islands of New Guinea

ACORN WORM: Lives along the ocean floor and in deep oceanic trenches

TUBEWORMS: Found in the Pacific Ocean near the Galapagos Islands

From a Land Down Under Most earthworms live in soil. Some earthworms live on the surface of soil in organic matter such as leaves. The earthworm lives in underground tunnels.

These can be more than 1.5 metres deep. Earthworms pull organic matter into their burrow.

Earthworms like mild and moist weather. Without enough moisture in the soil, earthworms cannot breathe.

IN SG

Art Smart Learn more about the many ways you can express your artistic talent.

Everyone is creative in some way, whether through music, words, or even math. If you have a flair for the visual arts, there are many ways you can let it shine.

YOUR ART

Art can be found everywhere around us. Don't believe it? Take a look at the list below. Check your interests and skills, and find which art form suits you best!

Painting When you say “art�, most people think of paintings because they're one of the most well-known forms of art.

Tip: Experiment with different paints oils, watercolours, acrylics - to find out which you enjoy working with most.

Check out: Crestar Art. Its latest programme, ArtMazing, is an exciting course, in which you are exposed to a wide variety of mediums. For more information, call 6342 5600.

Comics Art

22

Whether in comic books, comic strips or graphic novels, comics art is extremely popular and has gained respect in the art world.

Tip: Try sketching your own character, then create an adventure for him or her, and draw it in comics panels.

Check out: Association of Comic Artists (Singapore) at Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Block B, #02-02. For beginners, we recommend its Traditional Art courses.

Animation

Graffiti

This means displaying a sequence of images to create the illusion of movement. Animation artwork is used to produce a cartoon.

What began as writings or drawings sketched or spray-painted in public places, has become a real art form, also called street art.

Tip: Practise! Draw a ball in different position on each page of a notebook. Flip pages to see the ball bounce!

Tip: Practise graffitistyle art first using markers on paper. You shouldn't paint on a wall or other surface without permission!

Check out: Little Animators workshops, where you'll learn the basics of animation, such as how cartoons and stop motion animation work, background design, story layout, scene-by-scene detail, and actual animation! Call 6681 6505 for more details.

Check out: Haji Lane and Kampong Glam areas for some amazing street art.

Photography

flair - a special or instinctive aptitude or ability for doing something well mediums - the material or form used by an artist, composer, or writer composition - the artistic arrangement of the parts of a picture pottery - pots, dishes, and other articles made of fired clay. Pottery can be broadly divided into earthenware, porcelain, and stoneware

Photographic art is taking pictures to share your visions and emotions with others.

Tip: Composition is very important in art photography. Try to capture interesting patterns or details in your photos.

Check out: Children's Photography Workshop by Phocus Academy, where you'll learn to express your creativity in capturing photographs of your favourite toys and everyday objects.

Call 9765 4224 for more information.

Art is constantly evolving.

Explore your creativity. It may take you somewhere totally new!

1

Love helping your mum to cook? Try your hand in

2

Like working with your hands?

3

If you like creating stories, how about doing

4

Do you prefer working with technology? You might want to learn the basic concepts of (computer graphics).

(food styling).

(Pottery-making) might just be the thing for you!

(book illustration)?

e

AS tr

CRAFTS

ing ood m G um

m i T

By Rachel Yohannan Photography Justin Loh

Let your musical side free and have fun making up tunes on your very own!

Materials you need: • Large Styrofoam plates • Rubber bands • Cardboard • Stapler • Paint • Paint brushes • Craft glue • Buttons • Stickers

St ep 1 Staple two Styrofoam plates together for added weight, and paint them in a colour of your choice. Stretch some rubber bands over the plates to serve as the banjo strings.

Step 2

St e p 4

Ste p

Cut out a strip of cardboard for the fretboard of the banjo and paint it in a contrasting colour.

3

Glue the fretboard to the back of the banjo.

Glue buttons to the top of the fretboard to create the banjo knobs, and decorate the banjo with stickers to make it even more colourful.

Happy strumming!

24

QUIZ

Dandy!

GYM WHICH ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS EVENT IS FOR YOU?

In artistic gymnastics, athletes perform leaps, jumps and other moves in short routines on the balance beam, vault, other equipment, and the floor. Find out which event is perfect for you with this quiz.

1

A. soaring leaps B. splits C. high-speed handsprings

Mostly B’s

You could do eyepopping moves on a thin rail without falling.

3

4

26

Mostly A’s

Audiences would love your dance routines!

2

A. musical B. flexible C. strong

A. grace B. balance C. power

If you choose

People are amazed at my…

I can be described as…

Athletically, my best asset is…

Go for the Gold!

I have super strong…

A. legs B. core muscles C. shoulders

Mostly C’s

You’d be amazing launching high and doing all those flips!

PUZZLES

A d U p, U p A n Which popular children's toy...

! y a w • is used by teams of adults in competitions around the world?

• is often featured in poetry, legends, and folk tales?

• helped make Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Graham Bell, Wilbur and Orville Wright, Leonardo da Vinci, Gugliemo Marconi, and Homan Walsh famous?

Answer: The kite

• originated in China at least 3,000 years ago?

• was outlawed during the 18th century because it distracted shopkeepers from their duties?

• has been used to pull boats, carriages, sleds • is a traditional New Year's and ice skaters? gift for Japanese children?

• has led directly to major scientific discoveries?

Find two identical kites

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outlawed - ban or make illegal distracted - unable to concentrate because one is preoccupied by something worrying or unpleasant

PUZZLES

Brain Teasers

by Dr. Scott

1

What is the missing number?

10

11

21 9

23

19

1

2

B

Can you arrange the letters into word?

(Clue: These are the names of MRT stations!)

i. NTCWOINHA ii. HLIODWEGO

Answers: 1. 32-3 = 29 2. C - All are mammals except shark 3. i. Chinatown ii. Woodleigh 4. i. L ii. OQ iii. LN

30

35

2

?

3

Which picture is the odd one out?

A

3

32

C

4

D

What is the next alphabet? i.

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

?

ii.

E

F

H

I

K

L

N

?

?

iii.

C

E

D

F

H

G

I

K

J

?

?

M