small mercies

Opportunities to entertain toddlers with a serious case of cabin fever are few and far between in Hong Kong. Sure, we all know this city is 70 per cent parkland, but you can't always bank on the weather playing ball. Shopping malls offer multiple distractions, with toy shops being the most dangerous. In Sai Kung, parents can retreat to a children's playroom that is part of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department's expansive recreation centre at Tui Min Hoi. Inside are climbing frames, a crawling tunnel, plastic toys, an expansive fleet of pedal and push cars, and, best of all, about 1,000 sq ft in which youngsters can run themselves ragged. The playroom is restricted to children under six, but little and large patrons of all ages can make use of the centre's many outdoor facilities, which include a playground, cycling area and swimming pool. Simply register and pay at the office then let the munchkins loose. The recreation centre is open seven days a week (except Chinese New Year), from 9.30am to 10pm (excluding two meal breaks: 1pm-1.45pm and 6-7pm. Children under three play free; three- to 13-year-olds pay HK$9 on weekdays and HK$13 on weekends and public holidays, adults pay $17/$26. Visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_skorc.php.