Family Life in Hong Kong - 1 https://www.sassymamahk.com/category/mama/ Hong Kong Wed, 12 Feb 2025 02:41:32 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://www.sassymamahk.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Group.png Family Life in Hong Kong - 1 https://www.sassymamahk.com/category/mama/ 32 32 The Best Cherry Blossom Spots In Hong Kong https://www.sassymamahk.com/the-best-cherry-blossom-spots-in-hong-kong/ Wed, 05 Feb 2025 22:00:58 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=187564 Discover the best locations in Hong Kong to admire the charming pink Sakura flowers (cherry blossoms)! It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s natural beauty and enjoy a delightful day out with the family! ’Tis the season for cherry blossom viewing! For many in Hong Kong, a trip to Japan to admire […]

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Discover the best locations in Hong Kong to admire the charming pink Sakura flowers (cherry blossoms)! It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s natural beauty and enjoy a delightful day out with the family!

’Tis the season for cherry blossom viewing! For many in Hong Kong, a trip to Japan to admire Sakura is an annual tradition. However, if you’re unable to plan a family trip to Japan this year, there are plenty of beautiful spots in Hong Kong where you can enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms!

Hong Kong is home to various cherry blossoms, including the Bellflower Cherry Tree, Fuji Cherry Tree, Yoshino Cherry Tree, and more. They typically bloom from mid-February until late April, with a flowering period of about two weeks. Be sure to seize the opportunity to witness their beauty during this prime viewing time! Check out these locations for you and your loved ones to capture cherry blossoms in bloom!

Sassy Mama tip—Cherry blossoms rely heavily on weather and climate conditions. Make sure to visit LCSD’s Flower Appreciation website for the latest updates on the best times and locations to view cherry blossoms!

Read More: The Best Forest Schools In Hong Kong


Hong Kong Ocean Park

Who knew this renowned Hong Kong theme park had Cherry Blossom trees! Before heading for the thrilling rides at Ocean Park, make your way to the Waterfront Cable Car Station (through Old Hong Kong) to see Guangzhou Cherry trees and snap a shot of the blossoms with the park’s iconic cable cars in the background. Other prime spots for viewing include Waterfront Plaza, the Eco Trail, Sichuan Treasures and the Ocean Express Summit Station. The blossoms are expected to last until late March.

Where: Ocean Park Hong Kong, 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong

Read More: Guide To Ocean Park Hong Kong


HKIA Cherry Blossom Garden

Located near Scenic Hill along Chek Lap Kok South Road (walk past the Ngong Ping Cable Car Station), you will find Hong Kong’s largest cherry blossom garden! Having opened in 2023, the garden now includes mounds and fences to protect the trees, photo spots, information boards and resting areas to sit back and admire the cherry blossoms. The best time to visit is mid-February, when the trees are in full bloom.

Where: HKIA Cherry Blossom Garden, Chek Lap Kok South Road, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong


Kwan Kung Pavilion in Cheung Chau

The beaches, hiking trails, and the delicious mango mochi on this outlying island make it an ideal day trip destination! From mid-February to mid-March, be sure to stop by Kwan Kung Pavilion in Cheung Chau to witness the stunning pink-petals!

Where: Kwun Yam Wan Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong — click for ferry schedule

Read More: Cheung Chau Island Guide


Ngong Ping Village

Ngong Ping, located in Lantau, is home to over 400 cherry blossom trees and spring-flowering varieties. This spot is ideal for enjoying cherry blossoms, with blooms starting in late December and lasting until early April. Notable species include Bellflower Cherry, Double-flowered Bellflower Cherry and Guangzhou Cherry, among others. Turn it into a fun game with the kids to identify the different cherry blossoms!

Where: Ngong Ping Village, 111 Ngong Ping Rd, Lantau Island, Hong Kong


Quarry Bay Promenade

Situated along the eastern waterfront of Hong Kong Island, Quarry Bay Promenade is an ideal urban location to appreciate cherry blossoms! You and your little ones can enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful contrast between the blossoms and the city skyline.

Where: Quarry Bay Promenade, Hoi Yu Street, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong


Tai Po Waterfront Park

Visit Tai Po Waterfront Park—one of the largest public parks in the city! Notable cherry blossoms include the Yoshino Cherry Tree, known for its fragrant whitish-pink flowers, and the Fuji Cherry Tree, which features light white-pink flowers. The best viewing spot is the spiral lookout tower. The park is also great for family picnics and has several playgrounds where kids can play.

Where: Tai Po Waterfront Park, Dai Fat Street, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong

Read More: The Best Outdoor Playgrounds And Parks In Hong Kong


On King Street Park

Right next to the cycling path along Shing Mun River, On King Street in Sha Tin features over 100 cherry blossom trees of the Fuji Cherry Tree variety. Their delicate pink blossoms, along with the backdrop of the river, create the perfect photo opportunity! They are currently in bloom and are predicted to last until mid-March.

Where: On King Street Park, 23 On King Street, Sha Tin, Hong Kong

Read More: Where To Ride Your Bike In Hong Kong


More Cherry Blossom Locations In Hong Kong

  • Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden — 230 Taiwan cherry blossom trees plus farm animal exhibits, gardens, walking trails, waterfalls and more. www.kfbg.org
  • Rotary Park, Tai Mo Shan Country Park — Taiwan-origin cherry blossom trees plus nature trails, wildflowers, lush greenery, and campsites with barbecue pits. www.afcd.gov.hk
  • Shing Mun Valley Park, Tsuen Wan — A few planted Japanese cherry blossoms plus rivers, a rose garden and more. www.lcsd.gov.hk
  • New Asia College, Chinese University of Hong Kong — 20 Japanese flowering cherry trees that were planted to celebrate the University’s Department of Japanese Studies’ 20th anniversary. maps.app.goo.gl

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Financial Planning For University And College Education https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-life-money-financial-planning-university/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 22:00:53 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=146950 Planning for your child’s future can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the rising costs of higher education. The good news? With the right financial strategies, you can help pave the way for your child’s dreams while teaching them valuable lessons about money along the way. Here’s how to start saving for university or […]

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Planning for your child’s future can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the rising costs of higher education. The good news? With the right financial strategies, you can help pave the way for your child’s dreams while teaching them valuable lessons about money along the way. Here’s how to start saving for university or college—and tips for getting your kids to be more mindful about their spending habits!

Winston Churchill said it best: “Saving is a very fine thing, especially when your parents have done it for you.” As parents, we all want to set our children up for success, and while we can’t predict their future, we can help them pursue their dreams by planning ahead financially.

Money may not be everything, but it does open doors to opportunities—especially when it comes to education. Starting to save now can provide your child with a strong foundation and a head start in life. We’ve compiled some key information about budgeting for studying in various popular countries – open up your Notes app and read on!

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


Global education trends

The HSBC Global Report on The Value of Education (2018) notes that nearly 50% of Hong Kong parents wish they had started saving for college earlier as they claim to spend over $400,000 on their child’s university education. The average student faces a funding gap of $143,620 and 83% of students are juggling work and study. No wonder that saving for our children is increasingly becoming a necessity.

Also, in today’s globalised world, overseas university education is a common option. More than 50% of Asian parents consider sending their children abroad for further studies. This is supported by OECD data, which shows that 57% of international students in OECD countries in 2021 came from Asia, led by China and India. Studying abroad may be one of the most beneficial experiences for youth today, aside from providing them with a world-class education. Living in a new environment helps students become independent, develop a global mindset, increase cultural sensitivity and the ability and willingness to take up challenges. While they are away from home, they can also learn self-reliance and financial prudence. All of these attributes are attractive to future employers and serve as stepping stones to a successful career.


So how much does it cost?

Let’s compare three popular destinations for overseas students — the US, Australia and the UK. We’ll compare what a student would pay in Hong Kong dollars for tuition, accommodation and other living expenses.

  • USA

The US is one of the world’s most popular destinations for higher education – and also one of the most expensive. Tuition fees range from $5,000 to $50,000 per year depending on the institution and program. Most undergraduate degrees last four years, meaning students may graduate with $20,000 to $200,000 in tuition costs alone. Accommodation and living costs depend on location and institution type.

  • Australia

On average, sending your child to Australia to pursue an undergraduate degree will cost you upwards of HK$81,377 in tuition fees alone. The cost of living in Australia would be a minimum of $89,815 per year. For example, annual tuition fees at the University of Sydney range from A$45,500 – 52,000, while living costs in cities like Melbourne average A$24,500 per year.

  • United Kingdom

For international students, studying in the UK is often considered good value for money compared to destinations like the USA or Australia, especially given the global recognition of UK degrees. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs typically range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year, depending on the course and institution, with laboratory and clinical degrees generally costing the most.

In addition to tuition, living expenses in the UK can add approximately £1,300-1,400 per month, depending on the city.

Read more: 6 Things You Need To Consider For Your Teenager’s UCAS Application


Pitfalls of inadequate planning

According to an HSBC survey in Hong Kong, parents earmarked an average of $3.6 million per child to fund a 7.1-year UK education, including pre-university or postgraduate studies.

Some parents do not feel the need to save for their children’s future as they mistakenly believe that an education loan is the solution to support them in their further studies. While these loans can help, parents often overlook the additional expenses that accumulate over time, such as accommodation, travel and living expenses.

Furthermore, many do not realise the burden of repaying a loan that they may pass on to their children. Graduates who have the responsibility to repay their loans could find themselves facing a decreased financial capacity to start a family or buy a house, which could also hinder their ability to start saving for retirement at an early age. Student loans are also frequently repaid with a fairly high-interest rate. In the UK, for example, the standard undergraduate student loan interest rate has increased to 7.3% as of 2024, up from 5.4% in 2019.

It is also important to note that tuition fees, not to mention housing and other living expenses, have soared in recent years, at a rate that dramatically outpaces inflation. Therefore it is unrealistic to expect that costs decades on will remain the same as today.


Learning from experience

The HSBC Global Quality of Life Report 2024 highlights that only 55% of affluent parents in Asia have an education savings plan. Financial concerns are high, with 31% of parents expecting their children to take on loans, 45% hoping for scholarships, and 22% even considering selling assets to fund their child’s education.

We all have a part to play in our children’s development. So, have you considered how you are going to fund this important stage in their lives? Depending on whether you want to pay the entire amount or fund a part of your child’s higher education, it is imperative you put a plan in place by setting aside a target amount for your children’s education needs.


Making a start

How much do you need to invest? Quite simply, as much as you can afford. The important thing is to start investing as soon as you can so that your money has plenty of time to grow. This is true whether you save on a regular basis or invest lump sums as and when you wish. It’s surprising how much even small amounts of money saved on a regular basis can grow given time.

Let’s look at an achievable amount of $10,000 per month. Set that aside for your child’s education and assuming a basic 5% growth rate, after five years, you will have $682,294. After 15 years, that amount will have grown to $2.6 million. If you have two or more children, you may consider a more aggressive target of saving $30,000 per month. In 10 years, you will have saved $4.67 million. That should be enough to see them through most of the top universities worldwide (and of course, you could push them to strive for scholarships!). Besides the necessity of saving, being fiscally responsible is also an important life lesson we can impart to our children. Let’s take a quick look at what your compounded savings could be, if you start now.

SMHK investing chart

Read more: University Applications: Thinking Outside The Box

However you wish to invest, choose a simple, flexible way that gives you every chance of success in providing for your child’s future. Without a helping hand, your child’s hopes and dreams might remain just that. But with sensible financial planning, you can help make them a reality. One thing is certain: the earlier you start to save, the better their start to adulthood (financial and otherwise) will be.


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Around The World With Creative Secondary School’s Winter Arts Showcase 2024 https://www.sassymamahk.com/creative-secondary-winter-arts-showcase-schools/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 01:59:04 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=186939 Creative Secondary School’s Winter Arts Showcase 2024 took us around the world in one spectacular evening. Hong Kong is known for its multiculturalism, but it’s not often that you get to see different peoples and traditions come together, at the same time and place, in one spectacular showcase. Filling that gap is Creative Secondary School […]

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Creative Secondary School’s Winter Arts Showcase 2024 took us around the world in one spectacular evening.

Hong Kong is known for its multiculturalism, but it’s not often that you get to see different peoples and traditions come together, at the same time and place, in one spectacular showcase. Filling that gap is Creative Secondary School (CSS)‘s annual Winter Arts Showcase, which returned last month on 19 December, 2024, in a dazzling event that had families buzzing with excitement. Aptly titled “Kaleidoscope: A Celebration of Cultural Diversity Through the Arts”, the show was more than a standard talent performance or schoolyard fair — it was an all-out cultural extravaganza that transported the audience around the globe, all from the comfort of a residential enclave in Tseung Kwan O!


Filling Hearts And Bellies

Let’s talk about the International Food Fair. If you thought attendees were nibbling on boring sandwiches, think again! From spicy samosas to sweet churros, the culinary delights were enough to make anyone’s taste buds do a happy dance. Families and friends mingled, munching on delightful global snacks while basking in the warm glow of cultural celebration. Who knew school could be that tasty?

The dishes felt especially made with love as they raised funds for the Watoto Choir from Uganda — orphaned children with incredible talent and the special guests for the evening. The meals were served up by the Parent-Teacher Association, who offered a variety of delicious local cuisines, and they served as a heartwarming reminder that community spirit thrives, showing how coming together can be both joyous and deeply meaningful.


A Cultural Symphony Takes Centre Stage

As the clock struck showtime, over 100 students took to the stage and transformed it into a vibrant tapestry of cultural performances. From the rhythmic beats of African drumming to the graceful elegance of the CPS Chinese Dance, students wowed the audience with original and authentic traditions. The CSS Orchestra serenaded the crowd with harmonious melodies, while the Bollywood Dance absolutely lit up the stage with its infectious energy. And let’s not forget the soulful Filipino folk song, which left most listeners nearing tears! Then there was the Watoto Choir. Full of spirit and talent, the choir shared their uplifting stories through song and dance — in one instance, the diverse audience jumped and clapped in unison, bringing the whole room together.


Art That Speaks Volumes

Beyond incredible meals and musical performances, there was also a stunning art exhibit with works made by students from Creative Secondary School, Creative Primary School (CPS) and Creative Primary School’s Kindergarten (CPSKG). Using a wide variety of methods and materials, the children crafted artworks that blended Chinese and Western techniques in a heartwarming display of creativity and solidarity.


A Night to Remember

As the curtains closed on this spectacular showcase, it was clear that CSS’s annual Winter Arts Showcase offers a level of diversity and inclusion that no other school in Hong Kong does, all while making the concepts fun and educational. With CSS nearing its 20th anniversary and CPS and CPSKG approaching their 40th, one thing is for certain: we’re marking our calendars for next year’s celebratory showcase!


Creative Secondary School, 3 Pung Loi Road, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong, 2336 0233, Facebook: www.facebook.com/CreativeSecondarySchool, www.css.edu.hk

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The Etiquette Of Giving Lai See And Red Packets In Hong Kong https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-life-chinese-new-year-cny-lai-see-etiquette-hk/ Thu, 09 Jan 2025 22:00:54 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=148055 Chinese New Year is upon us and that means red packets need to be given (and received!). Our kids might be eagerly anticipating their lai see, but as parents, making sure to follow proper lai see etiquette can be fraught. Sassy Mama’s got you covered with all your red packet do’s and don’ts. Whether you […]

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Chinese New Year is upon us and that means red packets need to be given (and received!). Our kids might be eagerly anticipating their lai see, but as parents, making sure to follow proper lai see etiquette can be fraught. Sassy Mama’s got you covered with all your red packet do’s and don’ts.

Whether you call them lai see, red packets, or red envelopes (or go for the traditional term, Hongbao), you’ll need to know the rules around this Chinese New Year tradition. These little envelopes are usually red (for luck) and contain money. It’s a time when kids can use their lai see money to save up for something they truly want, and a time for adults to bless those younger, or someone who offers a service, with luck, happiness and good fortune. Read through our handy guide and get clued up on your lai see etiquette.

Read More: Chinese New Year Camps – 2025 CNY School Holiday Camps in Hong Kong


Lai See Red Packet Etiquette Hong Kong Chinese New Year 2025

Lai See Red Packet Traditions In Hong Kong

The tradition of lai see giving is carried out by married individuals and elders as a symbol of well-wishing and to bring good luck to juniors and unmarried singles. However, because giving lai see depends on hierarchy, red packets can also be handed out from “big to small”, “old to young”, and “senior to junior”.

So, for instance, you can have an unmarried boss hand out red envelopes to his or her older, married helpers. The amount of lai see given in red packets is largely dependent on the closeness of the relationship between the giver and receiver.


Red Packets And Lai See For Service Providers

Helpers and secretaries receive a larger amount in their red packets as they are your immediate employees. It’s not uncommon to provide a token lai see to helpers of friends who often spend time with your children on playdates. For services you frequently use or go to, such as building staff (security guards, doormen, club staff, etc.), a token amount in a red packet will do. You may choose to give a higher lai see amount to someone dedicated to your building and less in your red envelopes to those who are shared across the whole complex.

It’s always good to carry spare red packets containing $20 in your bag, so you can hand the lai see out to miscellaneous service staff like waiters, those who help you find cabs at hotels, etc.

Read More: Sassy Mama’s Guide To Festivities Around The Globe


Lai See Red Packet Etiquette Hong Kong Chinese New Year 2025 year of the snake

Giving Red Packets — More Hong Kong Lai See Etiquette

  • Never give money in odd numbers (it’s associated with funerals). Start with red packets containing $10 and work upwards in multiples of 10. Some people even choose to give multiple red envelopes at a time, so if you want to give $60, you could give three lai see with $20 each.
  • Never give coins. Most people prefer to give red packets containing new banknotes, which is why you see long lines outside banks, starting two weeks before CNY.
  • As you may have noticed in lifts and even with the numbering of buildings, numbers ending in four are considered unlucky. So you would never give $14 or $24 in red envelopes. However, if you have followed the no-coins rule, there is no risk of going wrong here, just avoid lai see with $40 or $400.
  • When giving, express your blessings and well wishes to the receiver. Don’t forget to give your lai see with both hands as this is regarded as a sign of courtesy. The right moment to give your red packets is normally when you arrive at a host’s place or greet someone, not while leaving. Never let children give out lai see to older folk or service staff, as this is considered insulting.
  • Just as while giving, receive your red packet (and teach your children to, as well) with both hands as a sign of courtesy. It is also impolite to open the red envelope immediately to check the lai see amount in front of the giver. If your little one has got lai see from one of your friends and you plan to give her child a red packet as well, wait for a moment, so it doesn’t look like an exchange.

Read More: How To Set Intentions As A Family For The New Year


Chinese Red Packets — What To Say When Giving Lai See

If you are a teacher, you can say Hok Yip Jun Bo (wishing for academic improvement), or another generic blessing for anyone is Sun Tai Kin Hong (wishing for good health).

Of course, the most common blessing when giving red packets, and a greeting that you will hear throughout the holiday is Kung Hei Fat Choy (good wishes, good fortune).

Read More: Where Kids Can Learn Chinese In Hong Kong


Lai See Red Packet Etiquette Hong Kong Chinese New Year 2025

Lai See — How Much To Give In A Red Packet?

How much to give in a red packet is completely dependent on individual relationships as well as each family’s financial situation. Immediate family members are typically given the most generous red packet amounts, followed by close relatives and friends, then distant friends and children of acquaintances and so on.

Also, when giving lai see to children, it makes sense to give older children (who are responsible for their own savings, pocket money and spending) a higher amount in their red packets than a child who wouldn’t know the difference between two numbers anyway!

lai see red packet red envelope chinese new year hong kong

Now that you know exactly how to lai see like a local, from all of us at Sassy Mama, Kung Hei Fat Choy!

Read More: Dim Sum In Hong Kong – The Best Yum Cha For Kids


Editor’s note: “The Etiquette Of Giving Lai See And Red Packets In Hong Kong” was originally published by Anita Balagopalan and most recently updated in January 2025 by Veena Raghunath. With thanks to Jess Mizz for her contribution. 

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Find The Coolest Toys, Baby Products And Stationery At These HKTDC Fairs https://www.sassymamahk.com/hktdc-fair-hong-kong-whats-on/ Tue, 17 Dec 2024 22:00:43 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=186592 New year, new kids’ products! HKTDC is hosting its annual toys, stationery and baby product fairs where exhibitors from around the world will showcase the latest creations. Exciting news for families in Hong Kong! From Monday, 6 January to Thursday, 9 January, 2025, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will host the 51st Hong Kong Toys & […]

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New year, new kids’ products! HKTDC is hosting its annual toys, stationery and baby product fairs where exhibitors from around the world will showcase the latest creations.

Exciting news for families in Hong Kong! From Monday, 6 January to Thursday, 9 January, 2025, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will host the 51st Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 16th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair, and the 23rd Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair. With over 2,500 exhibitors from 34 countries and regions showcasing smart toys, quality baby products and innovative stationery.


Never-Before-Seen Toys At Asia’s Flagship Toys Fair

This year, the Hong Kong Toys Fair will feature pavilions from Mainland China, Taiwan, Korea, and a special ‘World of Toys’ showcasing European delights! The Hong Kong Brand Toy Association returns to promote local creativity, while the ESG pavilion debuts to raise awareness of sustainability. Highlights include the Brand Name Gallery with 340 top brands, a Smart-Tech zone, and eco-friendly toys in the Green Toys zone. 

What: HKTDC Hong Kong Toys and Games Fair
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
When: 6 to 9 January, 2025, 9.30am to 6.30pm (fair closes earlier at 5pm on Thursday)
Booking: Pre-register here


All Your Baby Essentials But With Modern And Functional Innovation

From compact cribs to foldable, multi-purpose strollers and high chairs that grow with your baby, the 16th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair is definitely one you’ll want to pencil in. You can find maternity needs, bedding and more, all using the latest design and technology. Exhibitors from around the world will showcase their newest products. 

What: HKTDC Hong Kong Baby Products Fair
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
When: 6 to 9 January, 2025, 9.30am to 6.30pm (fair closes earlier at 5pm on Thursday)
Booking: Pre-register here


Stationery That’ll Get Kids Excited For School

As a one-stop showcase of the latest and greatest in the world of stationery, the Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair presents exhibitors who’ve put pen to paper to create sustainable and unique stationery. From the coolest back-to-school essentials to seed paper taking a forefront in notebooks and crafts to get creative, it’s pretty amazing to see how much stationery has evolved over the years. 

What: Hong Kong International Stationery & School Supplies Fair
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
When: 6 to 9 January, 2025, 9.30am to 6.30pm (fair closes earlier at 5pm on Thursday)
Booking: Pre-register here


Editor’s Note: Please note that the fairs are all trade fairs for professional trade visitors aged 18 or above only.


HKTDC, www.hktdc.com

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Family Goals: How To Set Intentions As A Family For The New Year https://www.sassymamahk.com/family-life-goals-intentions-new-year/ Mon, 09 Dec 2024 22:00:48 +0000 https://www.sassymamahk.com/?p=175481 Ready to make family goals that actually stick? Here are tips for setting goals and achieving them—because teamwork makes the dream work! With only a few weeks until January, it’s time to embrace the excitement of fresh beginnings and endless new possibilities! While personal resolutions are important, there’s something special about the magic that unfolds […]

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Ready to make family goals that actually stick? Here are tips for setting goals and achieving them—because teamwork makes the dream work!

With only a few weeks until January, it’s time to embrace the excitement of fresh beginnings and endless new possibilities! While personal resolutions are important, there’s something special about the magic that unfolds when the entire family joins hands in setting intentions. Studies show that pursuing goals as a family unit improves relationships and emotional maturity. You’ll discover meaningful ways to align your goals, foster deeper bonds and create a harmonious environment for your loved ones. Here’s how to create an extraordinary game plan for your family in 2025!

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


Family goals 2025 hugging each other

How to Create Family Goals For 2025

Sassy Mama number peach 1Reflect On Values

Understand what principles matter most to your family. Is it better communication, more quality time, or your health and well-being? Once you’ve identified your values, let them be the guiding stars for crafting your family goals.

Sassy Mama number peach 2Involve Everyone

The most magical goals are those that involve every member, big and small. Gather around the next family meal and create a safe space for everyone’s aspirations and desires to flow freely. A shared vision is a powerful catalyst for unity and success.

Sassy Mama number peach 3Be Specific And Realistic

Define your goals with crystal clarity and a touch of realism. Life is a whirlwind, and goals that are too ambitious can sometimes set us up for a bumpy ride. This is also the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to SMART goals: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. By breaking down their aspirations into actionable steps, they can build confidence, discipline and resilience!

Sassy Mama number peach 4Create A Family Vision Board

Transform goal-setting into a fun, intentional activity. Make a family vision board that blends photos and words representing your dreams. Place it where everyone can see it daily, turning it into a visual reminder of your shared journey.

Sassy Mama number peach 5Set Dates, Not Resolutions

Infuse your goals with accountability by setting timelines. Whether it’s a monthly check-in or a quarterly review, mark specific dates to evaluate your progress. Adapt goals as needed and relish the small victories along the way.

Read More: Stress – Causes And Effects On Your Health And How To Fix It


Family Goals 2025 bonding

Family Goal Ideas For A Successful New Year

The sky’s the limit when it comes to setting family goals! Use the below ideas as inspiration to find what you want to work towards as a family in the new year:

  • Health and well-being: Swap lazy Sundays for invigorating family bike rides, hikes, or sports. Cultivate physical fitness and well-being by scheduling regular outdoor activities. You can even up the game by joining charity walks, group races and family runs in Hong Kong!
  • Communication: Turn your family group chat into a lively space for connection. For those miles apart, make use of technology. Establish a monthly family date for meaningful discussions, fostering openness and strengthening bonds.
  • Intellectual exploration: Transform dinner conversations with a family reading challenge or learning project. Explore a new hobby or a workshop together, or embark on individual learning journeys and share insights.
  • Cultivating love: Integrate a daily gratitude ritual into your routine. Share moments of thankfulness at meals or bedtime.
  • Community engagement: Get together as a family for a local charity or community event. Contribute to the greater good and instil empathy and social responsibility in your children. Hong Kong has an extensive list of volunteering opportunities to get the kids involved, from feeding street sleepers, cleaners and refugees to taking care of abandoned pets.
  • Financial wellness: Setting financial goals as a family not only helps you save for exciting experiences like a family vacation, it also teaches your children the value of budgeting and planning for the future. By involving kids in discussions about building an emergency fund, you can instill important lessons about financial responsibility and security.

Read More: Can Your 7-Year-Old Teach You To Manage Money?


Modern Family goals 2025

Practical Tips For Following Through:

Setting goals is the first step towards achieving your dreams, but following through on them is where the real magic happens. Here are some practical tips for really following through on your family goals.

Sassy Mama number peach 1Assign Duties

Break down your big goals into mini-missions, assigning roles to each family member. Your family becomes a superhero squad, with everyone contributing their unique superpower.

Sassy Mama number peach 2Regular Check-In Chats

Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress, challenges, and adjustments. Celebrate victories together and tackle obstacles as a united team.

Sassy Mama number peach 3Mini-Win Celebrations

Celebrate small victories with as much gusto as major achievements. Use positive reinforcement to ensure ongoing commitment to shared goals. Shine a spotlight on individual goal achievements as well! Recognising each family member’s unique accomplishments to create a culture of support and motivation.

Sassy Mama number peach 4Stay Flexible

Life is an unpredictable journey and sometimes you’ll have to adjust and reconsider your priorities as a family. Embrace flexibility without losing sight of your family’s overarching vision.

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Family Goals 2025

Goals become truly exhilarating when shared with those we love. We are the architects of our environment and we have the power to mould it in a way that nurtures collective and individual growth. With these simple tips, you’ll craft family goals that weave stronger bonds, create enduring memories and pave the way for a profoundly fulfilling 2025.


Editor’s Note: The article “Family Goals: How To Set Intentions As A Family For The New Year” was most recently updated in December 2024 by Carmina Jariel.

The post Family Goals: How To Set Intentions As A Family For The New Year appeared first on Sassy Mama.

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