8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year at Avenue K Shopping Mall

Chinese New Year is round the corner, a very exciting time indeed filled with traditions and culture. Recently I was at Avenue K shopping mall and I came across 8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year. 

The Avenue K's theme for Chinese New Year this year is Eden of Opulence. With this garden theme, shoppers can expect to see and feel Chinese New Year like I did.

8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year

1. Lion Dance

These were the lion dancers which greeted shoppers at Avenue K. It was fun to listen to the drums and watch the lion dance performers. The lion dancers blessed one of the mall's latest eateries, Rue De Paris Cafe. 

Note: Lion Dance Performance are on the following dates and time at Avenue K mall.

23 Jan 2024 at 12.45pm
27 Jan, 3, 12 Feb 2024 at 2.30pm

@mumsgather #avenuek #liondance #cny #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #chinesenewyear #opulence ♬ original sound - mumsgather

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Avenue K (@avenuekmy)

2. Yee Sang

We had Yee Sang at Rue De Paris cafe. Interestingly, the crunchy parts were made with cornflakes. What an interesting and novel addition to the dish. Yummy!

3. Angpow

In line with the garden theme, this year's Angpow packet design from Avenue K feature lovely blooms. The packets come in sets of 5 with different shades from pink, red to gold. You can redeem two sets of  angpows if you spend RM238 and above at the mall, in a maximum of 2 combined receipts.

4. Auspicious Plants and Wishing Trees

Here's something you should know if you are shopping at the Avenue K, if your purchase is RM100 and above, you can redeem a money plant and take it home with you! Don't forget to make a wish too. Get your wishing card at Information Counter, Level G and hang your wishing card at the wishing tree located beside the Information counter. Three of the most heartfelt wishes will win RM200 Leather Avenue Cash Vouchers each.

5. Cheongsam

 

Women love to dress up in traditional Chinese Cheongsam during Chinese New Year. Its quite fun to see the various designs from traditional vintage qipaos to more modern versions and designs for the younger ladies. Check out the Cheongsams at Avenue K. There's one for everyone, including the little ones.

6. Chinese Cultural Performances

This is the best time to watch Chinese Cultural Performances for free!

Note: You can watch the amazing Chinese face changing performance at Avenue K mall at the following dates and time.

23 Jan 2024 at 12.30pm
2, 16 Feb 2024 at 1.00pm

Here's a sneak peek. Don't show this to the kids yet. Bring them for a surprise.

@mumsgather #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #cny #chinesenewyear #facechanging at #avenuek ♬ original sound - mumsgather

7. Shopping

Shopping for food, clothing, accessories, decorations etc is the fun part of Chinese New Year. After the hard work we put in spring cleaning and cooking, we must dress up in our best to visit or receive relatives and friends. 

8 Visiting Malls

One of the must dos by all Malaysians during every festival is to visit our numerous malls to check out the mall decorations. This year, Avenue K Shopping Mall welcomes the year of the Dragon with the  "Eden of Opulence" with a lush garden theme. 

Watch the video below to see the "Eden of Opulence" at Avenue K shopping mall.

@mumsgather #chinesenewyear #cny #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #malldecor #avenuek #edenofopulence #opulence #wishingtree ♬ original sound - mumsgather

3 Simple Steps to Construct a Consistent Study Routine for Your Child

It is always a challenge to just put your child in one place and simply expect them to sit there for half an hour just to study/do their homework. Is it impossible? Well, no. Is it difficult? Well, definitely and obviously yes.

However, the rewards come down to your children having healthy learning habits and also letting them find their uniqueness and specialty in a subject.

They could be well-versed in languages and creativity or logical and critical in mathematics. The larger purpose is for your children to sharpen their thinking and mature throughout their learning journey. If your children are struggling with studying then a study routine can be a massive help.

That being said, all habits start from us, the parents or those who are older than them. Environment and influence are a big factor in cultivating our children. So, how exactly can you establish a study routine for your child? Don’t stress for there are 3 simple steps.

3 simple steps to establish a study routine for your child

1. Study Habits – Observe your child's habits. Developing study habits is a good starting line to a good study routine. Habits, by definition, are autonomous actions that were developed over time without much conscious thought. Parents can foster positive study habits by encouraging them to take positive actions like taking notes, reading a new page, or asking if they have any hesitation. All of these habits can be helpful for your children’s learning journey.

2. Planning and Preparation – Always plan the study session and separate it from actual learning and completing homework. Help them plan around the activities they want to do. Having an actual timetable or schedule can help them to navigate through their school life. Preparation doesn’t always mean giving them books and letting them do their thing, it can also mean preparing them mentally by talking through them.

3. Praising and Rewards – Keep talking to them about studying. Get them to be ready in a mindset to study. Be supportive and do not hesitate to praise even if it is for a very minor achievement. Have a reward system. Always give rewards alongside praises. It can boost their confidence and love for learning. It is about acknowledging the value of their hard work and dedication.

This article was brought to you by Eye Level Malaysia.

Eye Level Malaysia is an enrichment center that can help your children to achieve learning goals. The math and English programs offered by the center aim to foster discipline and consistency in the study routine of enrolled students. The establishment emphasizes the importance of a well-established study routine in cultivating self-directed learners among the children. 

With a widespread presence of over 100 centers across Malaysia, parents are encouraged to drop by to visit for a firsthand experience and a free diagnostic test.

Find out more at myeyelevel.com.

Chinese New Year 2024 Family T-Shirt

 It is coming towards the end of the year. Turn round the corner and soon Chinese New Year 2024 will be upon us. Next year, Chinese New Year will be on Sat, Feb 10, 2024. Chinese New Year 2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon. 

Some families like to dress up in matching outfits for the Chinese New Year. One simple way to do that is to wear matching tees. The t-shirts normally come in the same design but in various sizes for the whole family, couples, dad, mom, brother, sister, uncle, aunty, grandpa, grandma. Everyone wearing the same matching t-shirt during a family gathering makes great pictures like the one below.

Image Credit: This CNY 2024 Year of the Dragon family tshirt
is available from https://shope.ee/1fsdYeJeCH

Online retailers often have many different sets of tees we can choose from. It is not too early to start shopping for matching t-shirts for the whole family from babies to grandparents just in case shipping takes some time. Tip: When shopping online, be sure to read the reviews. The review will tell you whether the material is comfortable or is it perhaps too thin etc.

2024 is year of the dragon and dragon designs are a bit more complicated. Do you like cute cartoon dragons, majestic looking dragons, dragon at the front placing on the tee, side or back? So many choices.

Here are some CNY 2024 family t-shirts you can check out.

1. Cute Cartoon Dragon CNY 2024 matching family t-shirt

Here's a cute cartoon dragon CNY 2024 family tee set. Sizes range from baby rompers up to men and women XXL. According to the seller, you need to order the t-shirts separately by adding each size of your choice separately to cart before paying. There are two cute dragon designs to choose from. Placement of the cute dragon is in the center.

Where to buy:
https://shope.ee/5ASVf4jNXk

2. Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon 2024 family tee shirt

If you like a unique design with the dragon motif at the side of the tshirt, then you can consider this which is available from sizes M to 4XL. No baby or toddler sizes for this one, so this is more suitable for  family with teenage children. 

Where to buy:
https://shope.ee/5V5M4Ci6je

3. CNY 2024 couple or family t-shirt with dragon motif

The dragon motif or design for this CNY t-shirt is at the side or "pocket" area of the chest for those who prefer a simple design that is not too loud. This is available in 2 colours so you can mix and match with sizes for ages 1 to 2 and up.

Where to buy:
https://shope.ee/2VRkVH0z7l
https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SxLVy?cc

4. Chinese New Year 2024 Gold Dragon couple or family tee

For those who prefer designs that are not too childish, you can opt for this gold dragon which has been cleverly incorporated into the words 2024. This unisex t-shirt is available in 4 colours in both kids and adult sizes. Kids sizes are from 1 year to 14 years whereas adult sizes are from XS to 5XL so there is one t-hirt for everyone in the family.

Where to buy:
https://shope.ee/6AL2slqB18

5. Happy Chinese New Year of the Dragon 2024 polo style embroidered t-shirt

If you prefer a colared t-shirt that has a classic polo style with embroidered words on the chest area, you can check this t-shirt which is available in 5 colours ie red, navy, grey, black and white. You can even pm the seller to custom make extra large sizes or to add other logos should you want to make this a work place team t-shirt.


Where to buy:
https://s.lazada.com.my/s.Sxqcb?cc

6. CNY CHINESE NEW YEAR Dragon FAMILY T SHIRT 2024 Dragon 100 Cotton Unisex

Not into red? Then check out these sets which come in lime green, powder blue, pink, lemon yellow and bright yellow. Of course red is available too if you like this design with peeping dragon at the side of the tshirt. Since this is a family t shirt, it is available in various kids and adult sizes as well.

Where to buy:
https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SxJ8L?cc

7. CNY 2024 Dragon Year Tshirt CNY Happy Chinese New Year Family Tee Couple Wear

Are you one of those who prefer to make a statement rather than follow traditional red? Then you might like a majestic looking dragon in navy blue t-shirt or on white but if you want to make it safer while visiting older relatives, you can always choose red, yellow or orange instead. Probably teenage boys and dads may like this better than the cartoonish ones.

Where to buy:
https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SxIcF?cc

Can't find what you are looking for here? Check below for other designs from....

Shopee:  https://shope.ee/9KI4fpqsRo

Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SxJt0?cc

Note: Remember, when shopping online, read reviews, measure your sizes according to the given size charts and talk to the seller in case you are still unsure.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Girls aged 10 to 12

 Are you looking to buy a Christmas or birthday gift for your daughter, niece, younger sister or friend's child? Here are some Christmas gift ideas for girls aged 10 to 12. 

I wrote an earlier post on Christmas gift ideas for boys aged 10 to 12 and actually, girls are so much easier to buy gifts for so this will be very much more fun to curate. Girls will be girls at whatever age, there are so many pretty and cute things for girls.

1. 2023 Countdown Christmas Mystery Box Advent Calendar for girls

Advent Calendar gifts are mysterious and fun for girls. Imagine opening a different little mystery box or window each day to discover a cute piece of friendship bracelet, keychain, necklace, sunnies or hair clip. It also teaches kids to countdown and patience to open the box slowly one day at a time instead of all at one go. 

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/AUTj1bMYkK
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQjKw?cc

2. DIY Charm Bracelet and Jewelry Making Kit Chrismas gift for Kids

Girls love pretty things and they love seeing mummy wear her jewelry. You can encourage creativity with DIY jewelry making kits which girls can spend hours of fun making charm bracelets and necklaces for or together with her friends or sisters. Some of these kits are so adorable, I suspect some moms may want to play along too!

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/7KWhGG0Uv0
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQQ2K?cc

3. Cute Notebook Sticker Set for Diary, Planner or Journal

Girl age 10 to 12. At this age, many girls love to write diaries or journal. A cute notebook set with matcthing stickers should make the girl who loves to write happy as they can write and decorate their notes and journals with matching cute stickers. Year end is also a time many kids like to pass their journals or autograph books around for their friends to leave a note or two for them. This can double up as a mini autograph book.

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/6AKjsjtRnZ
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQQFL?cc

4. Storybook Collection Box Set of Books For Girls

What better way to spend the year end holidays then being transported away to the world of storybooks. Girls who love to read will love to receive box sets of chapter books in a series which they can follow from one book to another. It is a good way to take them away from their gadgets. Teaching kids to love books and reading is giving them a gift for life. Encourage girls to read by gifting them with storybook sets.

Where to buy:

Shopee: https://shope.ee/5ASChgqrll
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQ9qs?cc

5. Clothing, hoodies, cute outfit sets for preteen girls

Girls of whatever age love clothes. At ages 10 to 12, their individual sense of fashion is evolving and they love to try out new looks to express their individuality. They also grow quickly, so you can try Korean fashion available online at affordable prices to give out as gifts.

Where to buy:

Shopee: https://shope.ee/7Uq7aukH6G
Lazada: https://www.lazada.com.my/catalog/?q=Lemon-Tree

6. Squishmallow Plushie Toys and Pillows for Girls

Squishmallows are cute round stuffed toys that come in a variety of colours, animals, sizes and textures. Soft smooth ones are particularly nice to be cuddled and placed on the bed or displayed in a girl's room with pride. They make great instagrammable props too!

Where to buy:

Shopee: https://shope.ee/6ztr0rqYbI
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQMaD?cc

7. Art Set for girls who love to draw and do art and craft

Crayons, color pens or pencils, markerts, pencils watercolors or better still everything in one set make great gifts for girls who love to draw and colour. They are also useful for school art and craft projects and can keep a girl entertained for hours. There are plenty of Christmas coloring pages or images for girls to color and display in their rooms.

Where to buy:

Shopee: https://shope.ee/7Uq7cep78K
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQMo1?cc

8. Cute Room Decor Night Light for Girl's Room

Girl's love to decorate their room with cute things, kawaii stuff and pretty knick knacks. Try a cute night light, that is squishy and fun and useful to light up the room in the dark. Cute to look at and functional, these night lights can be dimmed, squished and look great in a girl's room.

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/2q4I62NisN
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SQoCv?cc

These Christmas gift ideas can be used for birthday gifts for girls aged 10 to 12 as well.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Boys aged 10 to 12

 

1. Football Advent Calendar

24 little books on football individually wrapped and hidden in windows with football jerseys on them is the perfect gift for football fans. Football fan dads can enjoy this gift with their boys.

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/20V9iwRJNW
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.Sj4rU?cc

2. Basketball Hoop Stand

One way to get kids up and moving is to get them a sports related gift. Kids can practice their basketball shooting skills easily without having to look for a park with a basketball court. They can practice on their own or play with a sibling. There are many basketball hoop stand sets for a wide variety of budgets. 

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/6fGzC02ZeP
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.Sjdwn?cc

3. Gaming Headset

Boys this age often like to play games with their buddies online. A good gaming headset can make a difference to their game. Surround sound, noise cancellation, lightweight are some of the things you should be looking for when shopping for a gaming headset.

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/4fVuomTkCH
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SjW2F?cc

4. Lego Building Set

The world of Lego is a limitless world of creativity and play. There are so many sets for kids and adults who love Lego, you can spend hours building, playing and displaying your finished work. For example, this Lego Minecraft playset gives kids 2 different play scenarios. The first is a golem fortress, featuring 2 heroes from the game, the Crystal Knight and the Golden Knight, who protect their base from hostile attackers, a Charged Creeper and 2 skeleton horsemen. Kids can reconfigure the fortress into a towering golem figure, with huge movable arms. 

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/30NgqcMGdb
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SjWJE?cc

5. 3-D Pen

A 3-D pen will give boys hours of creativity because they can draw anything 3-D instantly. Know that the sets you buy usually come with some filaments but they are usually not enough. The most commonly used  filaments for 3D pens are PLA and ABS filaments. Do read up more about the pros and cons of each. The filaments are so interesting these days, don't just buy plain coloured ones, nowadays you can find glow in the dark ones or those that look like wood. 

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/9zXRC2LLQo
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.Sj3im?cc

6. Kids Smart Watch 

A cool looking smart watch that can make and receive phone calls makes it easier for parents to contact kids on the move and is a good Christmas present for boys aged 10 to 12 with its many good looking designs and features.

Where to buy:
Shopee|: https://shope.ee/20V9i8ci39
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SjVXQ?cc

7. Decor light for boys room

Colourful 3D lighting with phrases like "Can't hear you, I'm gaming", "On Air", "Game Zone" is an interesting addition to this room decor. Boys need to mark their space and decorate it with their own personality and style. 

Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/6UxZ5r7MKT
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SjfFJ?cc

8. Chocolate Gift Box for Boys

Lots of choices of specially curated chocolate boxes for boys. You can't go wrong with food when it comes to gifts. Chocolate lovers will love these boxes. Some of them come with a plushie or gift or two. Select those which you think the receipient will enjoy the most.

Where to buy:
Shopee:  https://shope.ee/1qBjXiwDPl
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.SjUOa?cc

Apart from Christmas presents, the above gifts make great birthday gifts too!