I saw there was a post regarding single mothers on Lamma, but since it is a couple of years old, I wanted to inqure about it again. I am planning a move to Lamma next month and I am curious how many toddlers are around. I have an 18 month old who is used to being in FT day care here in the US.

Since I will have a helper/nanny, I am wondering how they would typically spend their time with toddlers. I know this is subject to the person, but if anyone has any ideas, I'd love to hear how their nannies plan out their days with toddlers.

I understand there are some mother/child play groups on the island twice a week for a couple of hours. Are there any active play groups that meet daily? I currently have such a short commute, I am concerned that my daughter will feel neglected with less time with me and feel isolated with the language barrier and lack of interaction with other children. On the other hand, I just don't see myself living in Discovery Bay...again, any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

Hi HKkarma and welcome to Lamma!

There are so many kids of different ages on the island so there will certainly be kids of your daughter's age for her to play with. What usually happens is that parents find other parents with little ones of a similar age and then arrange for the nannies/mums/dads to meet up and the kids can play together at home, the playground or the beach depending on the weather.

Also, sometimes the nannies or parents arrange for the kids to go over to HK in a group to play in soft play areas or go to the swimming pool.

I think the trick is, once you get here, to seek out people with toddlers and ask if you can link up with them. Everyone's happy for another playmate for their kid to keep them all stimulated.

Thank you, Rach!

Welcome to Hong Kong!

I can't speak to the domestic helper situation -- i don't have one -- but I can speak to your concerns about the parenting community here on Lamma. My advice: don't worry about this. Seriously. YSW is replete with kids, playgroups and social support -- both in English and Chinese -- and you're about to join a community that will most likely welcome you with both arms. Your daughter will likely make friends and fit right in.

If you want to expedite the process, just hang out at the playground; you'll soon meet parents of all stripes, ready and eager to help you assimilate.

If you have any questions, or just want to meet up with a fellow parent, please do give me a call: 5413 1965. (I have a 15-month-old girl, and I'm a recent transplant from the States as well.) Don't be shy!

All the best,

Izarra

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