Students from the Department of Early Childhood Education at The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), from both the Master of Arts in Child and Family Education (MA(CFE)) and the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Early Childhood and Family Studies (BA(ECFS)) programmes, recognise the growing need for family education services in Hong Kong. They are also eager to put their classroom learning into practice.
On 16 May 2026 (Saturday), students from the two programmes successfully organised a warm and joyful “Let Kids Play & Parents Recharge” Family Fun Day at the EdUHK West Kowloon Study Centre (Austin Road). The event featured a rich and engaging programme, attracting nearly 50 families, as well as representatives from various social welfare organisations, and received an enthusiastic response. The event began with welcoming remarks from Prof. LAU Yi Hung, Eva, Acting Head and Professor of the Department of Early Childhood Education. In her speech, Prof. Lau highlighted that our department understands the needs of families in the community. She emphasized that the programme aims to cultivate students who are not only equipped with professional knowledge in early childhood education, but also possess the competencies required to serve as family education practitioners.
A highlight of the event was a parent seminar delivered by Dr. LAM Chun Bun Ian, Associate Professor, Associate Head of Department, and Co-Director of the Centre for Child and Family Science. The seminar, titled “Helping Children Use Digital Devices Wisely”, addressed the increasing prevalence of digital devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones in daily life. Many young children are becoming overly attached to these devices, with some even showing signs of “internet addiction.”
In his engaging, humorous, yet insightful presentation, Dr. Lam discussed the impact of digital device use on children’s development. He also shared practical strategies with parents, including modelling appropriate behaviour, setting clear rules, maintaining effective communication, providing timely guidance, establishing reasonable consequences, and offering quality alternative activities. The seminar was both informative and practical, leaving parents feeling empowered and well “recharged.”
Meanwhile, children enjoyed a variety of thoughtfully designed game booths led by student volunteers. These activities incorporated elements of mindfulness (e.g., “Family Peaceful Playground”), art (e.g., “Family Creative Corner”), and physical play (e.g., “Family Move and Play”). The activities encouraged children’s creativity and physical development while fostering parent–child interaction. The venue was filled with laughter and excitement, and the children thoroughly enjoyed the experience. A family photo booth was also set up, allowing participants to capture precious memories of the day.
The Department would like to express its sincere gratitude for the support of ECE and social welfare organisations, which continue to provide valuable opportunities for students to gain fieldwork experience. We also extend our thanks to all participating families for helping make the event meaningful and memorable.
Finally, we would like to express our appreciation to the EdUHK West Kowloon Study Centre (Austin Road), the Faculty of Education and Human Development, the EdUHK Early Childhood Learning Centre, the Library, and the Estates Office for their strong support in ensuring the event’s success.The Department will continue to encourage students to engage with the community, apply their professional knowledge, and contribute positively to the well-being of children and families.
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