< Previous50 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids Lynne Thompson Jo Vigeron How you can help to maintain your children’s concentration levels outside the classroom HOME-LEARNING AND HOMEWORK can instil a sense of dread in most children, whether they are in primary of secondary school. To be fair, it’s not a walk in the park for parents either. The refusal to just sit down and get it done, the procrastination when you eventually manage to drag them to their desk: “My pencil is blunt, I need to sharpen it”, “I might need some glue so I had better try and find some before I start.” You know the (painful) drill. We speak to the experts to get some much- needed advice on what parents can do to get their kids to focus. Amity School Abu Dhabi’s vice principal and head of primary, Jo Vigneron, and deputy head of primary, Lynne Thompson, share their top tips to help you help your child to learn outside the classroom. A LEARNING-FRIENDLY AREA Make sure your child has a quiet place where they can concentrate on their home learning and ensure that they have all the necessary equipment (books, paper, stationary etc) to hand. focus factor HELP THEM MAKE A PLAN Some children can concentrate for longer periods of time than others. Break up work into manageable chunks. Give children regular breaks. Use the ‘now and next’ strategy e.g. first you do this for 15 minutes, then you can choose to do something else for 15 minutes. KEEP DISTRACTIONS TO A MINIMUM This means no television or loud music. Some children can concentrate whilst listening to background music, but others may need a quiet space. ENCOURAGE CHILDREN DO THEIR OWN WORK If they make a mistake, that’s ok! Ask them, “Can you see anything you might need to change?” Ask them to check their work. Encourage them to use dictionaries, spelling mats and any other resources they have been given by their teacher. Do help, by all means, but please let children have a go so they are fully engaging with learning. Use resources you may have at home e.g. magnetic letters for spelling, spelling in the sand, using rulers as a numberline, dictionaries. BE A MOTIVATOR AND MONITOR Give lots of praise! Talk to them about their work and what they are doing. Give encouragement, check completed work, and make yourself available for questions and concerns. “Give children regular breaks” The Homework help 50-51 TOKU_1304_EDUCATION Homework_11249940.indd 5025/03/2020 14:16:06Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 51 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES Khan Academy An online not for profit organisation that produces short lessons in the form of videos. Its website also includes supplementary practice exercises and materials. O www.khanacademy.org. Documentaries by Lucy Wosley these online videos support the history curriculum. O Available on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube. Horrible Histories the light-hearted series is great for younger children. O Available on Amazon Prime Video. Znotes free and complete revision notes for international exams at IGCSE level. The site is run for students by students, providing a platform for them to pool and share resources. O www.znotes.org A-Level notes free A-level notes for biology, physics, chemistry and maths. O www.alevelnotes.com. Kinokuniya this large Japanese book store in The Dubai Mall stocks more than half a million books so you can always find relevant learning material here. O www.uae.kinokuniya.com. 50-51 TOKU_1304_EDUCATION Homework_11249940.indd 5125/03/2020 14:16:15Education 52 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids DUBAI NURSERIES Alphabet Street Nursery Ages 14 months-four years. Villa 11, Road 8A, Al Manara O Street, Jumeirah, www.alphabetstreet nursery.com (04 348 5991). Apple Nursery Ages 18 months-four years. O Villa No.65, Al Bada Street (near Iranian Hospital) www.applenursery.org (04 344 4441). ARTKID Nursery and Day Care Ages two months-four years old. O Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-7pm. Kuwait Street, Karama (04 398 9335). Aspin Nursery Reggio Emilia Curriculum using EYFS framework. Ages six months-four years. O Um Suqeim 1. www.aspinnursery.com (04 394 0091). Baby Land Nursery Ages 12 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-12.30pm. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, www.babylandnursery.com (04 348 6874). Banan Nursery Ages six months-four years. O Open 7am-3pm. Jumeirah, www.banannursery.com (04 346 6661). Blossom Nurseries Four branches. Ages six months–4.5 years. O Open Sun-Thurs 7.30am-6pm. Blossom Burj: Villa 37, Street 10a, Umm Al Sheif near Burj al Arab. Blossom Village: Villa 43, Al Ragay St, Umm Suqeim 1 near Spinneys Al Wasl. Blossom Downtown: Yansoon 7, Al Manzil District, Downtown. Blossom Early Learning Center (Ages six months–six years): Block 12 Dubai Academic City. Blossom Burj (04 348 6275) Blossom Village (04 394 8837). Blossom Downtown (04 448 7661) Blossom Early Learning Center (04 421 4458). www.theblossomnursery.com. British Orchard Nurseries O Bur Dubai, Deira, Jumeirah, JBR, Media City, Silicon Oasis, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah. www.britishorchard nursery.com (04 398 3536). Children’s Oasis O Umm Suqeim 2, off Al Manara Street, Jumeirah, www.childrensoasis nursery.com (04 348 8981). Crystal Valley Nursery Ages four months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 7am-6pm. Arabian Center, A Mizhar. crystalv@eim.ae, www.crystalvalleynursery.com (04 284 5519). Emirates British Nursery Pre-school education. Ages 3 months-four years O 66b street near Spinneys, Mirdif, admin_mirdif@ebn.ae, www.emiratesbritish nursery.com (04 288 9222). First Steps Nursery Ages one to six. O Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-6pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, firststepsdubai@gmail. com, www.firststep sdubai.com (04 348 6301). Golden Gate Nursery Ages six months to four years. O Open 8am–5pm, Sun-Thu, Villa 27, Street 6B, Umm Al Sheif, Dubai. www.goldengatenursery.ae (055 379 9487). Homegrown Eco Ages one to four. O Villa 33, Street 9, Umm Suqeim, www.homegrownnursery.ae (04 330 3008). . Hummingbird Early Learning Centre Ages six months-five years old. O Open Sun-Thu 7am-7pm and school holidays. Sheikh Zayed Road, DIFC, www.hummingbird.ae Sheikh Zayed Road. www.hummingbird.ae (04 370 0449). Jebel Ali Nurseries Ages 18 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-1pm, with options until 5.30pm. St Francis Church, Jebel Ali, info@jebelalinursery.com;, www.jebelalinursery.com (04 424 3791). Other locations: Marina/JBR, Meadows/Emirates Hills, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches, Umm Suqeim 3 (04 424 3791). Kiddy Planet Nursery Ages four months-five years. O Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-6pm. Al Quoz 1, Al Meydan Street (Other location: Umm Suqeim) www.kiddyplanet.ae (04 339 0010). Kids Academy Nursery O Villa No. 82, Al Shaari Street, Jumeirah 3 (04 338 0260). Kids Island Nursery Ages one to four years. O Open Sun-Thu. Jumeirah 3, Umm Suqiem near Beach Road. www.kidsisland nursery.com (04 394 2578). Kids World Ages two-five years old. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-6pm. 107 First Floor, Gold Crest Executive Building, Cluster C, JLT, www.kwclc.org (04 453 4272). Kidz Venture Early Learning Center Ages six months-four years. O Flexible timings. Ibn Battuta Mall, www.kidzventure.ae (04 368 4130). Kinderville Early Learning Centre Ages four months-six years. O Open Sun-Thu 7.30am-5.30pm. Unit 4, European Business Center, DIP (other location: Healthcare City) www.kinderville.com (04 885 4770). Ladybird Nursery Ages 18 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-12.30pm. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, www.ladybirdnursery.ae (04 344 1011). Little Land Montessori Ages 15 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-12.30pm. Umm Suqeim, Beach Road, Jumeirah, www.littleland- montessori.com (04 394 4471). Little Pandas Nursery Ages six months-five years, EYFS curriculum. O Open Sun-Thu 7am-6.30pm. Jumeirah 1, just behind Dubai Zoo, www.littlepandasnursery.com (04 344 6371). Little Wonders Nursery Ages one month-five years. O Open Sun-Thu 7am-6pm. Villa 25, 3rd Street, Al Manarah, Jumeirah, info@littlewonders.ae, www.littlewonders.ae (04 348 7195 / 050 804 8229). Mon Ecole (French Children’s Nursery House) Ages 15 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-5pm. Jumeirah 1, www.monecole-dubai.com (04 349 6868). New Dubai Nursery Ages 18 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Al Mankhool Road, Bur Dubai (04 398 4900). Odyssey Nursery Aged 4 months-four years. O 10A Street, Umm Al Sheif, www.odysseynursery.com (04 388 7130, 056 520 3449). Odyssey Nursery Ages 4 months-four years. O Villa 26, Al Riga’a, Umm Suqeim 2, www.odysseynursery.com (04 348 8805). Petit Bout Chou Nursery Ages six months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 7am-5pm. Jumeirah 1, behind Jumeirah Plaza, Rue 12C, Villa No 53, www.ptitboutchou.com (04 344 6031). Rainbow Valley Ages three months to four years. O 7am-6pm. Jumeirah Lakes Towers, www.rainbowvalley nursery.com (04 423 2540). Seashells Nursery Ages 18 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Sheikh Zayed Road, Barsha, www.seashellsnursery.com (04 341 3404). Small World Nursery Ages one-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-3pm. Off Jumeirah Beach Road, Street 49, nursery is on Street 16, swndubai@emirates.net.ae, www.smallworldnursery dubai.com (04 349 0770). Super Kids Nursery Ages one-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-3pm. 760 9955 Algeria Road, Mirdif (04 288 1949). Tender Love and Care Ages 18 months-four years. O Open Sun-Thu 7.30am- 5pm. Boutique Offices 23, Dubai Media City, info@tenderloveandcare.com, www.tenderloveandcare.com (04 367 1636). The Children’s Garden (TCG) Ages two-five years. O Green Community (04 885 3484), Barsha (04 399 0160) and Jumeirah (04 349 2985) www.childrensgarden.ae. Open Sun-Thu 7.45am-2pm. The Developing Child Centre Multidisciplinary team of qualified professionals. O Villa 26 Samari Street, Al Manara, Umm Suqeim 2. www.tdcc.ae (04 301 1900). About these listings Outlets are listed alphabetically by category. Timings and prices may change after we go to press, so we advise you to call and book ahead. How to get listed Listings must be sent at least six weeks in advance. Include the name, a short description, timings, location and taxi landmark, website and contact number. Listings are free, but space is limited so inclusion is not guaranteed. Email information to contact@ timeoutuaekids.com. Raffles International School DIRECTORY Educational institutions for all ages 52-53 TOKU_1304_ListingsEducation_11233897.indd 5225/03/2020 14:17:18Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 53 For our full Education listings, head online now timeoutdubai.com/kids and timeoutabudhabi.com/kids The Kensington Nursery Ages four months-four years. O Umm Al Sheif Street, Jumeirah (04 394 4473) and Dubai Silicon Oasis, www.thekensington nursery.com (04 342 3399) . The Palace Nursery Ages 14 months-4.5 years. O Open Sat-Thu 8am-6pm. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, www.kidspalacenursery.com (04 388 3737). Tiny Home Montessori Nursery Ages 18 months-five years. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, www.tiny-home.com (04 346 5240). Toddlers International Nursery Ages six months-four years old. O Open Sun-Thu 8am-5pm. Off Trade Centre Rd, opposite Sana Building, Al Mankhool, Bur Dubai, www.toddlersintlnursery.com (04 398 3111). Willow Children’s Nursery Aged 45 days-four years. O Villa 45, Al Sanbook Street, Umm Suqeim 2, www.willowchildrensnursery. com (04 321 4433). Willow Children’s Nursery Aged 45 days-four years. O Villa 40, Marina First Building, Dubai Marina, www.willowchildrensnursery. com (04 554 5802). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS Al Khaleej National School Ages three-18 (American). O Garhoud. www.gemsakns.com (04 282 2707). American Academy in Al Mizhar (AAM) Ages four-17 years old (American). O 11A Streets, Mizhar, Mirdif, www.aag.ae (04 288 7250). Australian International School Ages three-17 years old (Australian). O Maliha Road, Sharjah, www. ais.ae (06 558 9967). Dubai British School Levels: Ages four-18 (English). O Emirates Hills, www.dubaibritishschool.ae (04 361 9361). Dubai College Ages 11-18 years old (English). O Knowledge Village, www.dubaicollege.org (04 399 9111). Dubai International Academy Ages four-18 years old (International Baccalaureate). O Emirates Hills, www.diadubai.com (04 368 4111). Dubai International School Ages four-17 (American). O 53rd Street, Garhoud, www.dischool.com (04 282 3513). Dubai Modern High School Ages six-18 (Indian). O Nad Al Sheeba, www.gemsmhs.com (04 326 3339). English College Ages four-18. O Opposite the Oasis Centre, info@englishcollege,ac,ae, www.englishcollege.ac.ae (04 394 3465). Gems Wellington Academy Ages three-18 (English). O Silicon Oasis, www.gemswellington academy-dso.com (04 395 7227). Horizon English School Ages four-11 (English). O Al Safa, registrar@ horizonschooldubai.com, www.horizonschooldubai.com (04 342 2891). Jebel Ali Primary School Ages four-11 (English). O Behind Ibn Battuta Mall, The Gardens, enquiries@ jebelalischool.sch.ae, www.jebelalischool.com (04 884 6485). Jumeirah College Ages 11-18 (English). O Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, info_jcd@gemsedu.com, www.gemseducation.com (04 395 5524). Jumeirah English Speaking School Ages three-11 (English). O Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, jess@jess.sch.ae, www.jess. sch.ae (04 394 5515). Jumeirah Primary School Ages three-11 (English). O Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, www.jumeirahprimary school.com (04 394 3500). Kindergarten Starters Ages five-11 (Indian). O Garhoud, www.gemskgs. com (04 282 4090). Kings’ School Nad Al Sheba Foundation Stage 1 to Year 6 O info@kingsnas.com, www.kingsnadalsheba.com (04 327 1841). Mirdif Private School Ages four-17 (American). O 32nd Street, Mirdif, info@ mirdifprivateschool.ae, www.mirdifprivateschool.ae (04 288 3303). Nord Anglia International School Dubai Ages four-17 (British). O Al Barsha, just off Hessa Street, admissions@ nainternationalschool.ae, www.nainternationalschool.ae (04 219 9999). Our Own English High School Ages five-11 (Indian). O Al Warqa, www.gemsoo- alwarqa.com (04 236 1335). Oxford School Ages four-18 (English). O Al Rashidiya Road, Ghusais, www.oxford.sch.ae (04 254 3666). Raffles International School Nursery Ages four-16 (IBPYP, IGCSE). O Open Sun-Thu 8am-2pm, day care until 5pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, www.rafflesis.com (04 427 1200). Repton School Dubai Ages three-18 (English). O Manama Street, Nad Al Sheeba, www.repton dubai.org (04 426 9393). Royal Dubai School Ages three-11 (English). O Al Khawaneej Road, Mirdif, www.royaldubaischool.com (04 288 6499). Safa School Ages three-11(English). O Street 19, off Al Wasl Road, www.safaschooldubai.com (04 394 7879). Saint Mary’s Catholic High School Ages five-18 (English). O Oud Metha. www.stmarysdubai.com (04 337 0252). Scholar’s International Academy Ages three-18 (English). O Sharjah. www.scholars international.com (06 535 5033). Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai Offers t he I B curriculum to ages three-11. O Healthcare City,www.sisd. ae, admissions@sisd.ae (04 375 0600). The Emirates International School Ages four-18 (IB). O Sheikh Zayed Road, off Interchange 3, www.eischools.ae (04 348 9804). The Winchester School Ages three-18 (English). O Jebel Ali, www.thewinchester school.com (04 882 0444). ABU DHABI NURSERIES Abu Dhabi Junior Nursery From two to three years. O Sun-Thu 7.30a-12.10pm. Airport Road, near Al Wahda Mall (02 445 0600). Al Dana Nurseries Ten branches across Abu Dhabi and three in Al Ain. O info@aldarnurseries.com, ww.aldananurseries.com (02 633 4888). Al Haneen Nursery For children from 45 days up to four years. O Sun-Thu 6am-6pm. Mussafah, alhaneen nursery.com (02 553 0300). Bright Beginnings Nursery O Sun-Thu 7am-2pm. 27th and Airport Road, near 15th and 30th, Mushrif, info@ brightbeginnings.ae, www.brightbeginnings.ae (02 449 2840). Other location: Off Khaleej Al Arabi Street (02 445 5339). Bright Kids Nursery Al Manaseer O Haza bin Zayed Street, Villa-13, Street 28. manaseer@bkn.ae (02 443 0133). Bright Kids Nursery Al M uroor O Muroor Road, Villa-14, Al Misayid Street 1-46. muroor@bkn.ae (02 441 1950). Bright Kids Nursery Al Najda O Al Falah Street, Villa-24, Street 11. najda@bkn.ae (02 627 0049). Bright Kids Nursery Bain Al Jesrain. O Al Fihaydi Street 8, Villa-14. jesrain@bkn.ae (02 575 7920). Bright Kids Nursery Khalifa City A. O Street 4, 15th Street. kca@bkn.ae (02 445 3411). British Orchard Nursery Follows British EYFS curriculum. Caters for kids aged six months to five years. O Al Nayhan, www.britishorchard nursery.com (02 443 9892). Other location: Al Bateen (02 622 2903). Busy Bee Nursery Abu Dhabi For 18 months up to four years old. O Sun-Thu 8am-1pm. Madinat Zayed, www.busybees-nursery.com (02 621 9492). Butterfly Montessori Nursery O Open Sun-Thu 7am-5pm. 28th Street, near 11th Street, www.admont.ae (02 665 8611). Falcon British Nursery O Uk accredited trilingual specialty STEM nursery for six weeks to four years. Near Zayed Sports City, 7am-6pm, (02 4448814). Future Stars Nursery From one month up to four years. O Sun-Thu 7.30am-3pm. Al Falah Street (02 642 0177). Giggles Nursery Abu Dhabi From ten months to two years. O Sun-Thu 7.30am-2pm. www,gigglesenglish nursery.com (02 641 6255). International Montessori Nursery O Sun-Thu 8am-2pm. Al Muroor, info@imn.ae, www.imn.ae (02 449 4680). Jigsaw Nursery Abu Dhabi O (02 445 5222). Sun-Thu 8am-2pm Corner of Delma Street and Karama Street, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, www.jigsawnurseryad.com Kipina Nursery Modelled on the Finnish system. O Sun-Thu 7am-6.30pm, www.kipinakids.com (02 667 445). Ladybird Nursery O Aged 45 days-four years. Villa 18, 4th Street, Al Zaabi Area, www.lady-bird-nursery.com (02 667 3881, 050 384 9555). Les Fanfans Nursery Teaching in both English and French. O Sun-Thu 8am-5pm. www.lesfanfans.com (02 639 0390). Little Haven Nursery O Sun-Thu 7.30am-6pm. Near Mushrif Central Park, www.littlehavennursery.com (02 447 9688). Noah’s Ark Nursery Abu Dhabi O Khalifa City A, www.noahsark nurseryad.com (02 556 4419). Other locations: Najda (02 635 1035), Musaffah (02 559 1743). Redwood Montessori Nursery Aged 4 months-four years. O Street 38, Khalifa City A, www.theredwoodnursery.com (02 556 4611). Stepping Stones Nursery Modern Montessori curriculum English. O Al Bateen, www.steppingstones.ae (02 681 5583). Other locations: Al Rowdha (02 445 2260), Bain Al Jessrain (02 558 8318), Khalifa City A (02 556 5991) (02 681 5583). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS ABC Private Schools LLC From KG1 to Grade 6, kids follow the British curriculum. O Muroor Road, behind Abu Dhabi Police Academy (02 444 5800). Abu Dhabi International School Offers American and British curriculum to mostly Arab students, conducted in English. O Al Karama Street, Intersection 11, www.ais.sch.ae (02 443 4433). Al Dafrah Private School Offers British and American. O 5th Street, Muroor Road, behind Khalidiya Mall, www.dhafrasc.com (02 610 8400). Al Yasmina School British curriculum for kids aged three to 18 years old. O Al Raha Gardens, off Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway, www.alyasmina.sch.ae (02 5014888). American Community School of Abu Dhabi A not-for-profit school teaching the American curriculum to lods from KG1 to Grade 13. O Khalidiya, www.acs.sch.ae (02 681 5115). American International School Offering American education to children aged three to 17. O 29th Street Airport Road, www.aisa.sch.ae (02 446 2280). Belvedere British School Offers a UK curriculum for FS1 to Year 13, ages three to 18 years old. The Abu Dhabi branch is supported by Belvedere British Schools. O Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Street 31, admissions@ belvederebritishschool.com (02 509 0000). Brighton College Abu Dhabi O Eastern Mangrove Corniche, Bloom Gardens, www.brightoncollege.ae (02 815 6500). British International School Abu Dhabi British curriculum with sixth form. O Behind Abu Dhabi University, www.nordangliaeducation.com (02 510 0100). British School Al Khubairat British education to children from three to 18 years. O Airport Road, www.britishschool.sch.ae (02 446 2280). Canadian International School Abu Dhabi O Khalifa City A, info@cisabudhabi.com, www.cisabudhabi.com (02 556 4206). GEMS American Academy Offers the American curriculum, from KG1 to Grade 13. O Khalifa City A, www.gemsaa-abudhabi.com (02 557 4880), (02 631 3663). International Community School Offering a British curriculum to students from kindergarten to Grade 12. O Off Electra Street (02 633 0444). International School of Choueifat For children aged three to 18 years, teaching British and American curricula. O Al Mushrif, iscabudhabi@sabis.net (02 446 1444). 52-53 TOKU_1304_ListingsEducation_11233897.indd 5325/03/2020 14:17:2754 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids breaks if they don’t stay active. Plus, regular physical activity can help children and adolescents improve cardiorespiratory fitness, build strong bones and muscles, control weight, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes. And Jones, director of sport at Dubai College, stresses the importance of tweens and teens staying active with regular daily CHILDREN OVER 11 should be physically active at least 60 minutes of every day, but encouraging tweens and teens to get up and actually do any form exercise isn’t as easy as it may sound. But research shows that there is a real need for them to put their mobile phones and iPads down and get active, and it’s not just to prevent obesity. Scientists claim that teenagers are more likely to suffer regular bone fractures and exercise, but admits that there is confusion surrounding what type of exercise this age group should actually be doing. Jones emphasises that while it is essential to exercise and stay fit, it can be confusing for kids to know what type of exercise is best. “For specific fitness programmes, it is essential that they are easy to set up – no or little equipment should be needed – and that they are progressive i.e. start easy and get harder as you improve,” explains Jones. Ensure your tweens and teens are healthy with this fun daily exercise routine Sport & Outdoor stay active Keep fit 54-55 TOKU_1304_SPORT & OUTDOOR_10947420_11221408.indd 5425/03/2020 14:19:16Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 55 FITNESS PROGRAMME Exercises are repeated in a circuit three times “Also, the programmes should cover all of the body’s major muscle groups and raise your heart rate sufficiently to give you a cardiovascular benefit.” With this in mind, Jones has put together a fitness programme (see below) that covers all of the above requirements and, best of all, only needs five meters of space to carry out. All you have to do to get started is scan the QR Code above to see a helpful demonstration of the Bronze standard exercise, which should Exercise Bronze (Beginner) BronzeSilverGoldPlatinum Push ups46101520 Shuttle sprints 46101520 Sit ups 46101520 Lunges 46101620 Burpees 46101215 Bear crawls 246810 Squats 46101520 take you approximately seven minutes from start to finish. Jones advises that kids (age ten and over) perform the exercises as a circuit three times, as demonstrated in the film. “Start easy (Bronze Beginner), perform it four times a week and challenge yourself to move up a level once a month. If you reach platinum level, you can officially say that you are now super fit,” Jones laughs. Be active, have fun and stay healthy! 54-55 TOKU_1304_SPORT & OUTDOOR_10947420_11221408.indd 5525/03/2020 14:19:2656 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids Sport & Outdoor DUBAI BOWLING Dubai Bowling Center 16 professional lanes make this one of Dubai’s biggest bowling centres and food can be ordered at and delivered to your lane. O Sun-Wed 1 0am-midnight, Thu-Fri 10am-1am. Al Quoz, 28th St, Al Meydan Road, Dubai, www.bowlingdubai.com (04 339 1010). CLIMBING Adventure Zone Year-round fun at this indoor adventure facility including caving, skate park, zip line, trampoline park and a boulder wall. O Sat-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu- Fri 10am-midnight. Galleria Mall, Wasl Road, Dubai www.adventurezone.ae (800 23847). DANCING AND PERFORMING ARTS Diverse Performing Arts Little performers can learn all the different aspects of dance and theatre under one roof. Aimed at all levels from the complete beginner to the young performer headed towards a performing career there is a class for everyone. O Entrance A, The Curve Building, Al Quoz, Dubai, www.diversechoreography.com (04 330 7338). Dubai Dance Academy With a focus on ballet, dancers are given the skills and confidence they need to perofmr to international standards. O First Floor, Al Rawabeh Building, www.dubaidanceacademy.com (04 227 7363). Dubai Performing Arts From dancing and singing to acting, little ones can experience all- round training and foundation in performing arts, including audition preparation. O Dubai British School, Jumeirah Park, Dubai, www.dubaiperformingarts.com (056 173 7545). Step Up Academy Offering dance, performing arts, fitness and holiday camps, this academy is a one-stop destination for kids who love to be in the spotlight. O 113 Apex Atrium, Motor City, Dubai, www.stepup.ae (04 453 4360). DIVING Al Boom Diving Centre One of the oldest and most established diving centres in Dubai offering PADI qualifications. O Jumeriah Dive Center, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, www.alboomdiving.com (04 342 2993). EQUESTRIAN Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club A state-of-the-art polo and equestrian community devoted to equine sports located in Dubailand. O www. alhabtoorpoloresortandclub. com (04 436 2222). Desert Palm Equestrian Club The riding school boasts a large collection of horses ranging from 11 hand ponies up to 18 hands and caters to all levels starting with the leading rein classes from five years. O Sat-Tue 7am-11am and 4pm-7.3pm, Wed-Thu 7am- 11am. Al Aweer Road, Dubai, www.desertpalmllc.com (050 451 7773). Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club A comprehensive riding facility suitable for all levels from beginners up to experienced riders. O Al Qudra Road, Dubai, www. poloclubdubai.com (04 361 8111). Emirates Equestrian Centre Fully approved by the British Horse Society and offering state-of-the-art facilities the riding school offers lessons for all levels. O Sat-Thu 7am-7pm. Al Qudra, Dubai, www. emiratesequestriancentre.com (050 558 7656). FITNESS Air Maniax An inflatable play arena spanning over 23,000 square feet and consisting of more than 15 indoor activities, this is fun for all the family. O From Dhs80, Sat-Wed 10am-7pm, Thu 10am-9pm, Fri 9am-9pm. Street 1 Al Quoz 1, Dubai, www.airmaniax.com (04 348 8981). Bounce A massive indoor trampoline park that means kids and adults can exercise all year round. O Sun-Wed 1 0am-10pm, Thu 10am-midnight, Fri 9am- midnight, Sat 9am-9pm. Al Quoz, www.bounce.ae (04 3211 400). My Gym Fun-filled fitness programmes for tiny tots from six weeks up to children of ten years. O Sun-Thu 9am-7pm, Sat 9am-1pm. Street 35, Al Wasl Road, Dubai, www.mygym.com (04 394 3962). My Sports Academy Swimming, football, netball and tri-club are all on offer and a range of fun holiday camp run throughout the year. O Various locations, www. mysportsacademydubai.com (04 244 7848). Ultimate Athletics With a focus on track and field this academy offers effective and professional provision for athletes. O Various locations, www.ultimateathleticsuae.com (050 225 7024). FOOTBALL City Football There are various squads catering to all levels of football from a beginner squad to an elite squad, plus there is a girls About these listings Outlets are listed alphabetically by category. Timings and prices may change after we go to press, so we advise you to call and book ahead. How to get listed Listings must be sent at least six weeks in advance. Include the name of the event, a short description, timings, location and taxi landmark, website and contact number. Listings are free, but space is limited so inclusion is not guaranteed. Email information to contact@timeoutkids uae.com DIRECTORY Everything you need for your family Bounce 56-57 TOKU_1304_Listings_Sports_11233892.indd 5629/03/2020 10:58:25Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 57 Sport & Outdoor For more Sport and Outdoor activities, head online now timeoutdubai.com and timeoutabudhabi.com team. O Various l ocations, www.dubaicityfc.com (044 428 293). Elite Sports Players of all levels can fine tune their football skills under the supervision of top coaches. The sessions focus on technique and tactics. O Various l ocations, www.elitesports.ae (04 554 5916). Just for Keepers Just4Keepers (J4K) is an international goalkeeping academy that provides the training needed to be a top goalie. O Various l ocations, www.just4keepers.ae (056 855 7039). Juventus Academy Dubai Football classes for boys and girls from four to 17. All coaches are Juventus qualified and enter teams into various tournaments throughout the year. O Various l ocations, www.jacademy.juventus.com (04 580 7608). My Sports Academy Football for all ages and all abilities from tiny tots up to teenagers, plus a range of football- focused holiday camp run throughout the year. O Various locations, www. mysportsacademydubai.com (04 244 7848). Spanish Soccer Schools The football club focuses on providing children with the ability to critically think, asses and manage risk under pressure. O FitRepublik Fitness Center, Studio City, www.footballacademydubai.com (04 448 1555). GOLF Claude Harmon Perofrmance Golf Academy Dubai Students learn vital golf and lifestyle techniques in order to dramatically improve their game. O The Els Club, Sports City, www.ch3performancegolf.com Peter Cowen Academy Little golfers can brush up on their swing and practice their putting at this state-of-the-art golf academy at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Cowen has taught some of the world’s greats including Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood. O Jumeirah Golf Estates, www.dubaigolf.com GYMNASTICS DuGym As well as general gymnastics for all ages, DuGym also offers trampoline club, sports acro and an artistic academy for both boys and girls. Plus they have a competitive squad. O Horizon In ternational School, Umm Al Sheif, www.dugym.com (050 553 6283). NETBALL Dubai Hurricanes Aimed at children from five up to under 19s, Hurricanes teaches them to develop their game while focusing on a fun, enjoyable and rewarding experience for all players of all levels and ability. O www.dubaihurricanes.com (052 884 9338). My Sports Academy Swimming, football, netball and tri-club are all on offer and a range of fun holiday camp run throughout the year. O Various locations, www.mysportsacademydubai. com (04 244 7848). Tigers Netball Providing a great opportunity for netballers new to the game or seasoned players to participate in the sport from youth netball through to adults. O Dubai C ollege, www.dubaitigersfrc.com (055 665 7332). RUGBY Dubai Exiles An established rugby club dating back to late 1960s, the Dubai Exiles train at the state-of-the-art Sevens Stadium teaching rugby to children from under fives up to under 19s. O www.dubaiexiles.com Dubai Hurricanes The club’s mini and youth section is focused on helping young rugby players enjoy rugby and the experience it brings using the quality environment at The Sevens Stadium. O www.dubaihurricanes.com Tigers RFC This family rugby club teaches players of all ages to the skills required to play the game safely and successfully, from mini rugby players who start with tag rugby, through learning to play contact and up to secondary school kids. O Dubai C ollege, www.dubaitigersfrc.com (055 665 7332). SWIMMING Aquatix With over 15 years experience teaching ASA and AUSTSwim-based programmes, Aquatix operates at a number of schools, nurseries and colleges. O Various l ocations, www.aquatixdubai.com Elite Sports Academy A fun- filled programme that follows the British ASA framework is offered for children to become successful athelets. O Various locations, www.elitesports.ae (04 554 5916). Hamilton Aquatics Hamilton Aquatics offers swimming lessons for all ages and abilities that focus on improving swimming performance and water safety by offering a distinct and easy to follow pathway. O www.hamiltonaquatics.ae (04 450 8832). My Sports Academy Covering the complete aquatic performance spectrum, My Sports Academy takes swimmers from dipping their first toe in water through to elite competitive swimming and performance-based training. O Various locations, www. mysportsacademydubai.com (04 244 7848). WATERSPORTS Dubai Offshore Sailing Club A range of courses are available for all ages including junior dinghy courses and RYA children’s courses. O Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 1, Jumierah 3, www.dosc.ae ABU DHABI BOWLING Emirates Bowling Village A top bowling alley for fans of all ages. 28 lanes are available with a glow in the dark feature for an extra fun bowling experience that the whole family will enjoy. O www.ebv.ae (02 681 1185). Zayed Sports City A state-of- the-art facility where kids can bowl for fun with their friends or take it a bit more seriously and sign up for lessons. O www.zsc.ae CRICKET Abu Dhabi Cricket A family- friendly club where kids from under eights up to under 19s can fuel their passion for the sport at a programme of lessons suitable for a variety of levels and abilities. O www.abudhabicricket.ae EQUESTRIAN Abu Dhabi Equestrian club Learn and develop crucial equestrian skills at this horse riding school where everyone from beginners to elite riders are catered for with a range of ponies and horses to ride. O Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, www.adec-web.com (02 445 5500) FOOTBALL Juventus Football classes for boys and girls from four to 17. All coaches are Juventus qualified and enter teams into various tournaments throughout the year. O Variouslocations, www.jacademy.juventus.com (050 926 8159). Regional Sports Football Academy UEFA and FA qualified coaches ensure that players get quality football coaching as well as mental and social learning outcomes through a structured football syllabus. O www.regionalsports.ae (02 562 7777). GOLF Abu Dhabi City Golf Academy Learn, practice and play golf where coaches are on hand to help little ones learn the skills they ned to hit the golf course. O Al Saada Street, www.adcitygolf.com (02 455 9600). RUGBY Abu Dhabi Harlequins The club is affiliated with the London Harlequins ad has a Junior section covers all ages for boys and girls, from Under fours up to Under 19s. O Zayed Sports City, www.abudhabiquins.com Al Ain Amblers Formed in 1984, the rugby club trains at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club and has a mini an youth section. O Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, www.alainamblers.com (03 702 6431). SWIMMING Hamilton Aquatics Hamilton Aquatics offers swimming lessons for all ages and abilities that focus on improving swimming performance and water safety by offering a distinct and easy to follow pathway. O www.hamiltonaquatics.ae (04 450 8832). WATERSPORTS Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club Lessons in rowing, sailing and kayaking are on offer this sailing club. O Abu Dhabi Theater Road, Near Marina Mall, www.adsyc.ae (02 658 3333). Al Forsan International Sports Resort An option for all water sports enthusiasts because Al Forsan offers a variety of popular activities for all skill levels. O Khalifa C ity, www.alforsan.com (02 556 8555). Dubai Offshore Sailing Club While you may not be able to leave your home right now, we’ll continue to keep you in-the-know about the UAE’s family-friendly restaurants and things to do, so that when it’s safe for you to head back out, you and your brood are in no doubt about which places to make a beeline for. 56-57 TOKU_1304_Listings_Sports_11233892.indd 5729/03/2020 10:58:3458 Spring-Summer 2020 Time Out UAE Kids W hen you first find out you are pregnant, there is an expectation that you will be spending the first few months of your new arrival’s life in a sleep- deprived haze. But your precious little ones getting older, doesn’t necessarily mean that things get better in the snooze department. From babies who wake up throughout the night to feed and toddlers who climb out of their beds, to primary school kids who refuse to go to sleep and teenagers who keep you awake by coming home later than their curfew, having kids feels like you’re kissing goodbye to quality sleep for a long time. Sleep is important though, for parents and for children, both in terms of mental and physical wellbeing. “We sleep, on average, around eight hours a day, which is about one-third of our lives, and this third directly affects the other two- thirds,” says sleep expert Dominik Zunkovic, the founder of UAE-based mattress company WHISPER. “During sleep, the human body is working to support and maintain our physical health. Also, it is in the deeper stages of sleep that our body is able to reenergize and remove harmful toxins from our brains, which if they build up over time can lead to disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism, or worse can be life-threatening,” Zunkovic explains. Far from being a simple case of getting into bed, shutting your eyes and waking up eight hours later (bliss) there is far more to ensuring the whole family sleeps well and wakes up feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. Health & Wellbeing Why catching some proper zzz’s is so important for the whole family SOS Sleep 58 - 59_TOKU_1304_HEALTH & WELLBEING_10947419_11221412.indd 5825/03/2020 14:21:07Time Out UAE Kids Spring-Summer 2020 59 While a lot of us bring our children into our bed when they wake up at night because it seems like the easiest thing to do (and it’s actually quite nice to have a sleepy snuggle) this can have a detrimental effect on how well we sleep. “Although it can be a comforting feeling to sleep with your young loved ones, it is definitely something that can also disturb your sleep,” says Zunkovic. “The worry of not rolling over on your child can keep you out of the most restorative stages of deep sleep, while any tossing and turning could also wake you up completely.” And having a good mattress is key because dust mites, bed bugs, and bacteria are a big factor that will negatively affect your sleep environment and cycle. “To prevent congestion, skin irritations, and allergies it is vital that you rid your bedroom of these tiny creatures. Get a mattress that has real silver in it to prevent all bacteria, dust mites, and bed bugs and keep your sleep haven squeaky clean,” advices Zunkovic. Then there is the age old questions between mums and dads: “do we go for a hard or soft mattress?” Zunkovic answers: “Whether a mattress is soft or firm should have very little to do with whether or not the sleeper experiences pains and soreness after they wake up. Years ago, doctors used to recommend firmer mattresses to tackle these pains as it was the closest thing to offering proper support.” “Thankfully, over the past decades foam technologies have improved a lot and we are now using high density dynamic foams to design mattresses ergonomically, which allow your hips and shoulders (the bulkier parts of your body) to sink in more and ensure proper spine alignment.” And apparently it is this proper alignment that will ultimately ensure you wake up without any pain or soreness, regardless of whether a mattress has a plush soft comfort level or a firmer setting. FIVE TIPS Five tips to help you all get a better night’s sleep • Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day (even on the weekends), keep a good steady routine to enhance your body’s natural internal clock, and ensure more regular sleep cycles. • No heavy food, tobacco or caffeine prior to bed time. Nicotine and caffeine are stimulants that can take hours to wear off, so they’ll make it harder to fall, and stay, asleep. Avoid them all for four to six hours before bedtime. Also, pay attention to when you eat, going to bed hungry or with an empty stomach can keep you up later, just as much as over eating. • Control your light exposure. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone controlled by light exposure that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Your brain secretes more melatonin when it’s dark – making you sleepy – and less when it’s light – making you more alert. • Exercise during the day. People who exercise regularly sleep better at night and feel less sleepy during the day. Regular exercise also improves the symptoms of insomnia and sleep apnea, as well as increases the amount of time you spend in the deep, restorative stages of sleep. • Mattress quality is important. Get a mattress with an ergonomic design to prevent pains and soreness, while also decreasing tossing and turning. 58 - 59_TOKU_1304_HEALTH & WELLBEING_10947419_11221412.indd 5925/03/2020 14:21:16Next >