Cool Dad Hangouts: Steven Chia, Journalist at Channel NewsAsia and Dad of Two

Does the Dad in your life need some inspo on where to take the kids? We’ve talked to some of the coolest Dads in Singapore to get their tips on where to go and what to do with kiddos in tow!

You may recognize our Cool Dad this month! Singaporean Steven Chia hosts Talking Point on Channel NewsAsia and prior to this, he was the host of the morning show, AM LIVE! and the presenter of Crimewatch — so there’s a fair chance he’s no stranger to your TV screen. Here we get the chance to meet the affable Steven in person, and get a glimpse into what he describes as his “real full-time job”: being a dad to two kids, Lucy (12) and Joshua (8).

Tell us something quirky about yourself:
Oh, I am all kinds of quirky. And I’m known for telling somewhat “bad” jokes. Yes, my humour level is rather unsophisticated. Let’s just say I can relate to kids quite easily and usually put a smile on their face.
Like have you heard about the pig that does Karate? He’s called Pork Chop!
And what about Mike, do you know what he was like before he married Ruth? Ruth-less!

What’s your favourite outdoor spot to hang out with your kid(s)?
To be frank, home really is where our heart is. Yep, we like doing movie nights and home is the best place for that. We often invite friends over, too, because we find that home is the best place to hang out for those of us with kids. There is the space and of course, the much more affordable self-bought wine!

What’s your favourite restaurant to bring your kids to in Singapore?
Japanese food is a favourite for the family. So places like Sushi-tei or Sakae Sushi are great. But very often, we’ll just buy sushi from the supermarket and have dinner at home. I dare say the kids also like my roasts…like steaks and lamb (something I quite like cooking) and that’s all done at home.

Favorite playground in Singapore?
Don’t have one. Though living in the west puts us close to west coast park and the kids never tire of that. If not, we head down to Labrador Park with our scooters. You can go from there all the way to Vivocity.

Best spot for coffee when you’re on early-morning Dad duty?
Again, it’s home. Going anywhere else takes too long. My choice? Kopi O Kosong (basically a long black with no sugar). In fact, I have two coffee machines at home. The first we received as a wedding present many years ago and is of the “grind and brew” nature. The second is a Nespresso machine. So it just depends what I’m in the mood for.

Do you do any cooking in the house? If so what do you make?
I love my meats. And I enjoying making a good roast. From lamb racks to roast beef or roast chicken…I only make what I enjoy eating. Fortunately, the rest of the family enjoys it too. I’m in the midst of learning how to make some decent Korean fried chicken.

Any favorite bedtime book recommendations?
When the kids were younger, there was a series of books by Singaporean author Emily Lim, who also happens to be a friend of ours: Prince Bear and Pauper Bear, Just Teddy, and Bunny Finds the Right Stuff. These were some of our favourites as the kids wound down for the night. Entertaining, easy to read, and with a moral to learn as well. 

Any favorite apps/games to play with your kids?
We just got a Nintendo Switch. I told the kids they could either have me spend money on a birthday party somewhere else where I would have to rent the place, cater food…etc. Or, we could buy this game set instead. Not having done my research thoroughly, I have ended up spending more because each game is about $75 and each accessory is also about $100! But there is a really fun game called Just Dance. You’ll see the whole family attempting to follow the dancing actions on screen altogether. Even Grandma came over and gave it a go!

What are your favorite date night restaurants?
Oh…we don’t have a favourite. But anywhere that is a bit nicer than your usual family restaurant is okay with us.

Do you have a favorite shop?
Yes and it’s actually Lazada! Yep, online is the way to go. Need an adaptor for your computer? Need to replace your mobile phone charging wire? Need to buy a birthday present? It’s all there. You just need to plan ahead of time.

Where do you like to train/exercise?
Over 15 years ago, I got some friends together to start playing ultimate frisbee. Every Sunday, we gather at The Meadow at Gardens by the Bay for a game. It’s a great workout and we just play for fun. The kids come too and the park is great since they can ride their scooters around safely. In fact, these days the kids join us in the game too!

What are your favorite holiday destinations with your kids?
A beach holiday! The sun, the sand, the swimming pool and of course, room service. That’s what makes it a great holiday for the family. So Phuket and Koh Samui are our favourite spots for that kind of holiday.

Many thanks to Steven and his kids for taking the time to chat with us, and to the very talented Gunilla of Sugarlight Photography for the wonderful fun snaps.