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The front entrance of Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson.

During our previous visits, Mrs Rachel Ding (founder of Red SchoolHouse) mentioned that Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson is known as the ‘model centre’ which she set up in 2011 to consolidate the operations of all Red SchoolHouse centres in one place.

I’ve always wondered what being the ‘model centre’ meant so I decided to find out for myself — by making a trip down to Red SchoolHouse at Midview City, which is located at Sin Ming Lane within the Upper Thomson vicinity.

Kids in the Nursery class settling down to begin the day’s lessons.

As always, Rachel was there to welcome me with her signature warm smile. I arrived at the centre just as the day was about to begin for the kids, after being dropped off by their parents/caretakers.

What does it mean to be a ‘model centre’?

I was excited to explore the vast centre — Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson is housed in a commercial building lot at Sin Ming Lane, taking up 4 levels of space, complete with a rooftop playground.

Kids having fun with hula hoops at the rooftop playground of Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson.

According to Rachel, Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson is known as the ‘model centre’ because the school functions as the headquarters for all Red SchoolHouse centres. In addition, the teaching staff at Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson also play the role of mentors to student teachers from renowned institutions in Singapore such as Nanyang Institute of Management, SEEDS Institute and Ngee Ann Polytechnic.

Thus, the centre acts as a model teaching centre for students who are currently pursuing their higher education in early childhood education. These student teachers will be given the opportunity to gain some hands-on teaching experience under the guidance of the teaching team at the centre.

Parent participation is strongly encouraged at Red SchoolHouse. Here, a student’s mother is seen facilitating an arts and crafts session with the Nursery 2 kids.

Currently, there are over 70 kids enrolled at Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson, placed under the care of 20 teachers. The centre takes in an average of 2 student teachers per term, and exposes them to the SPICE curriculum.

Find out what goes on during lessons and play time at Red SchoolHouse Upper Thomson on the next page.

The post Preschool review: Red SchoolHouse (Upper Thomson) appeared first on Singapore Parenting Magazine for baby, children, kids and parents.

We know how much pressure kids face during their school years. While we try to guide them without judgement and with every ounce of support we have, it’s the limits they set on themselves that often cause the most distress.

But what if we could do something to help them achieve these goals? Something like exploring new methods of learning, like the Heguru Method.

Following extensive practical research in Japan, the Heguru Method has cultivated an educational programme which helps to harness a child’s real potential. The method uses both sides of the brain to maximise learning power.

Families in Japan have been benefiting from this thought process for over 30 years, and now thanks to Heguru Method @ Fusionopolis, Singapore families can too.

Using the right and left sides of our brains

The right side of the brain works with images – a bit like having a photographic memory. It processes large amounts of information at a faster pace.

Meanwhile, the left side of the brain deals with single bits of data individually at a much slower pace.

We use the left side of the brain on a daily basis, but Heguru says it’s access to the right side of the brain that can open up a genius in children.

Sounds interesting, right?

This would sound like a exciting proposition to any parent. We want our children to do the best they can in life.

Could we better prepare our children by giving them the opportunity to access their whole brain during early development? And would this make them more intelligent?

This is definitely something worth exploring!

Kids with right brain training do better in life says Heguru Method @ Fusionopolis

Learn about Heguru Method @ Fusionopolis right brain training on the NEXT PAGE

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Once my little girl could sit up on her own, I decided that it was the perfect time to start reading picture books to her. I grew up loving books, so I was determined to make sure that my daughter enjoys reading too.

Me, introducing my baby to the world of Dr Seuss for the very first time.

I wondered if there were any reading programmes or workshops for kids that I could potentially register her for when she’s older, to make reading even more enjoyable. While doing some research on reading enrichment classes, I came across the MindChamps Reading & Writing Program.

Based on the reviews that I’ve read online, MindChamps was the top choice among parents who were looking to get their kids to brush up on their reading and writing skills.

Having heard many good things about them, I was delighted when I was given the opportunity to meet up with their team at MindChamps Katong V.

The love of reading starts at home

You might have noticed that as your child enters toddlerhood, she begins to develop a copycat behaviour.

I’ve seen this pattern in my 1-year-old recently, as she tries to imitate every single thing that mum and dad does: from copying her dad when he wipes the play mat with a cloth to following my action of running my finger across the page when reading books to her.

Kids learn about the world around them by imitating what others are doing.

Kids learn a great deal by imitating the actions and habits of those around them – particularly their parents. Thus, it is crucial to set a good example on habits and hobbies that you’d like your little ones to develop, such as a love for reading.

According to Quek Swee Kim, Centre Manager of MindChamps Reading & Writing Program at Katong V, kids will naturally associate books and reading with pleasure and fun when their parents show great interest in them.

“Parents can ignite their child’s love for reading by reading to them books that contain characters and themes that they love, such as dinosaurs and princesses,” she said.

Tip from the experts of MindChamps Reading & Writing Program: Choose a book that contains a character or theme that your child loves!

Based on research conducted by MindChamps, it has been found that when kids are positively engaged when they’re reading (or being read to), they are also learning new things along the way.

To keep reading time fun for their kids, Quek suggested that parents try incorporating some creative storytelling techniques to ignite their child’s imagination by bringing the story to life.

Incorporate some creative storytelling techniques when reading to your child.
Here, a teacher is acting out a story with the kids during the MindChamps Reading & Writing Program at Katong V.

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One day, my 4-year-old son announced that he had a new friend named Jaggery. “Interesting name,” I thought to myself, wondering whether Jaggery was a new boy at school.

Turns out that Jaggery is a sparkly blue dragon who lives next door to us and loves nothing more than munching on little girls and broccoli!

My son goes into great detail when talking about his dragon friend and describes his adventures on a daily basis.

There may be a phase in your child’s life when his imaginary friend is his best friend!

Personally, I’m not too worried about my kid’s imaginary friend, but I know there are many parents out there whose kids have imaginary friends, too, and might be a bit concerned about it.

So we asked clinical psychologist Rachael Tan for her expert opinion on the subject of a kid’s imaginary friend.

To find out what Rachael had to say, go to the next page…

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Children getting along harmoniously at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong

As parents, giving your kids the best quality care at all times is paramount.

If your child is still an infant and you find yourself having to go back to full-time work, perhaps you are on a search for a daycare centre that can give your baby the best possible care while you are at work.

And if your child is now a toddler, you might be looking for a great preschool that not only provides a fun, warm and friendly environment for your child, but also stimulates him or her, and sets the foundation for his or her future education.

Well, if you are on the search for a preschool/nursery that has you ticking all the right boxes when it comes to your child’s care, we think you can probably look towards the direction of Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong!

Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong

Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong Institution

Learning Vision prides itself on being one of Singapore’s leading providers of high-quality preschool care, and has a 25-year record of excellence in early childhood education.

Their curriculum gives children a head start in becoming critical thinkers and creative learners, paving the way for a love of lifelong learning.

Here are some other things the Learning Vision team strongly believes in:

• Collaborative Partnership: They foster a strong relationship with parents and associates.

• Culture of Excellence: They strive for excellence in everything they do.

• Professional Conduct: They hold the highest standard of integrity, and treat everybody with respect and dignity.

• Community Spirit: They inculcate a strong sense of community spirit in their organisation.

Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong is surrounded by greenery — a plus for young kids, who need fresh air to breathe in every day!

As a mum to a 2-year-old toddler myself, looking out for preschools is high on my to-do list these days. So I was very interested to visit Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong in leafy, green Bukit Timah.

Opened in October 2013, Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong is the newest addition to the Learning Vision family. I was greeted by Ms Karen Lee — a lady with 22 years of experience in early childhood education, and the principal of Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong.

As Ms Lee proceeded to take me on a tour of the preschool, I was immediately delighted by the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.

She explained that kids at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong are often taken on nature walks where they get to enjoy and appreciate the environment.

The outdoor play area at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong

Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong: Teaching approach

The child as the protagonist

With a child-centered curriculum, at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong, kids are viewed as active, self-directed and competent learners who initiate their own learning.

They are actively engaged in hands-on exploratory learning experiences through making independent choices and selecting their own activities.

The teacher as facilitator

The teachers at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong plan engaging and meaningful experiences that build on the children’s understanding, and they also provide appropriate resources within the environment to facilitate the children’s learning.

Children are able to work independently as they direct their own learning in collaboration with their peers, rather than rely solely on their teachers for directions.

The process of learning is the focus

The processes of learning, rather than the end product, are the key focus in the teaching and learning process  at Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong. Experience-centred, hands-on learning encourages kids to explore, experiment, inquire, investigate, interact and discover ideas and concepts.

To find out more about Learning Vision @ Hwa Chong, please go to the next page…

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Champs will have heaps of fun at MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall!

MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall

If you’re looking for a preschool that can help your children become little Champs, check out MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall.

Here is what they have to offer you and your little ones:

A ‘one-stop shop’ curriculum

The MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall curriculum is a ‘one-stop shop’ when it comes to your child’s development and care, as they nurture your child with their world proprietary academic and enrichment programs.

MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall was even awarded the Passion & Commitment Award 2013 by MindChamps Holdings, so you can be assured your child is getting top-quality care there at all times.

The spacious outdoor play area at MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall

Since the preschool has an outdoor playground, water play is included in their unique curriculum — something that is not usually found in other preschools.

As you can imagine, little Champs at MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall always look forward to putting on their favourite swimming costumes and having a great time during the water play activities!

It’s not all fun and games though (even though the little ones think it is!) as water play of this nature actually helps to enhance young Champs’ fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination.

Champs learn motor skills and hand-eye coordination through water play

Special ‘zones’ to nurture your kids’ special skills

The highlight of this MindChamps PreSchool centre is its outdoor playground. Measuring a spacious 5,000 square feet, it is divided into 3 zones, namely, the musical zone, garden zone, and transportation zone.

• The musical zone is for little Champs to enhance their musicality and imagination by making their own music, using various kitchen utensils.
• The garden zone is the area where Champs are able to grow their own plants. This allows them to learn about the process and wonders of plant growth.
• The third zone is the transportation zone, where the Champs are able to select their desired ‘mode of transportation’ and role-play as drivers, pedestrians and traffic officers.

The outdoor playground is also used for picnics, physical activities, painting lessons, and many other exciting activities.

You can just imagine how much fun, as well as mental and physical stimulation young Champs are exposed to in this area!

Happy Champs at MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall

Mum-managed and mum-recommended

Fennie Ong, a mum herself, is the Director of MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall. She highlights how the MindChamps curriculum aims to nurture every child to become a Champion.

Here’s what she has to say:

As a working mother myself, I’ve always wanted to create a place that is suitable for children; an environment that they feel happy to be in, programmes and activities that they enjoy and learn from, and a place that they can call their second home.

Your child is sure to thrive at MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall!

Location, address, and contact information

Conveniently located next to the Farrer Park MRT station, the preschool is on Level 7 of City Square Mall.

It is actually the largest preschool in a retail mall with an amazing 14,000 square feet, made up of the learning space and outdoor play area combined!

MindChamps PreSchool @ City Square Mall can be found at the address below:

180 Kitchener Road, #07-01/05,
Singapore 208539 (Farrer Park MRT)

If you think MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall sounds like the ideal preschool for your little one, why not give them a call at 68344388 and speak to the friendly staff there?

Do keep in mind that currently, the school is 95% full and next year they expect 100% enrolment… so hurry and make that call now!

Does your child or the child of someone you know go to MindChamps PreSchool at City Square Mall? Let us know… leave a comment below!

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Find out why MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court may be the perfect preschool for your little one…

MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court

If you are looking for a preschool that offers your child plenty of mental and physical stimulation and great care throughout the day, then MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court may be just the place for you!

Here’s how this preschool can help nurture your little one’s overall development in unique and interesting ways:

Multicultural exposure and more!

We all know how exposure to different cultures can be beneficial to our children’s overall development.

Well, at MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court, your child will have the opportunity to make many friends from all over the world — 60% of the students who are currently enrolled there are local, while the rest are from countries such as Australia, France, Norway, Russia, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, China, Iran, and the Philippines.

They also have 8 experienced and dedicated teachers to watch over and nurture young Champs, so you can rest assured your child is in good hands at all times while at school.

Little Champs getting ready to enjoy a meal!

A fresh, ‘green’ curriculum

As a parent, wouldn’t you just love it if your child could be exposed to nature and fresh air while at their preschool?

Well, they can certainly do so if they are a young Champ at MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court — its proximity to the beautiful and very green Fort Canning Park makes its location unique and perfect for nature-lovers.

As such, little Champs are regularly taken to Fort Canning Park to be immersed in and enjoy the beauty of nature.

At MindChamps PreSchool @ Liang Court, your kids will have the advantage of being taken on nature walks at the beautiful Fort Canning Park.

But there’s more to it than just a simple walk in the park.

These park visits are actually arranged with the curriculum in mind, so the activity in the park is tied in with whatever the kids are learning during that particular week/month/term.

For example, if the theme for the term is ‘plants’, little Champs are encouraged to look out for different types of leaves and share what they have found with the others.

What’s more, these activities aren’t just limited to the little ones — as parents, you, too, will be invited to join the excursions from time to time so that you can bond with your children!

Little Champs lining up for an outdoor activity

Find out about more activities for young Champs on the next page…

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Looking for a right brain training enrichment class for your preschooler? Find out more about right brain classes at Heguru One KM and Sengkang…

The recent buzz around right brain training for preschool kids prompted me to ask myself: “What motivates parents to send their kids to these classes even before starting primary school? Isn’t this something that kids pick up naturally when they start school?”

Then came the invitation from Mr Kuah Eng Liang, Founder and Principal of Heguru Education Centre (One KM and Sengkang), to sit in a right brain training class for pre-schoolers.

I was thrilled at the opportunity to review the class, as I could finally find out what kids go through during the right brain training class and decide if I should jump right in and enrol my daughter (an active toddler who’s extremely curious about her surroundings).

All about Heguru

Mr Kuah Eng Liang with Heguru Japan Founders, Mrs Ruiko Henmi and Mr Hirotada Henmi during opening of the Heguru Eunos Centre

The Heguru Education Centre is a renowned right brain training school which originates from Japan. Being an eager first-time dad, Eng Liang did his research on right brain development and training for kids when his wife was pregnant with their first child.

The Heguru right brain training method caught his attention, as he was amazed by the effectiveness of the programmes after seeing how smart and focused Heguru primary school students were.

Upon meeting the founders, Mr Hirotada Henmi and Mrs Ruiko Henmi in Japan in 2011, Eng Liang made the move to bring the Heguru right brain education method to Singapore in January 2013.

So, what exactly goes on during a right brain enrichment class for preschoolers at Heguru Eunos and Sengkang? Click on page 2 to find out…

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Is a certificate or a degree really a sign of all-rounded intelligence?

Often, we think a person is intelligent if they have ‘proof’ of it, such as good grades and degrees.

However, even though you can teach a person thinking skills that may result in impressive certificates, these people might not always exhibit intelligent behaviour when it comes to dealing with issues they face in the ‘real world’, away from school and college.

So what is true intelligence? 

Professor Arthur Costa, creator of the Habits of Mind, discovered that truly intelligent people from all professions and walks of life, nationalities and genders, possess a set of thinking dispositions that help them to solve life’s complex problems successfully.

Professor Arthur Costa

As highlighted in his thesis and numerous books that have been written on the matter to date, Dr Costa suggests that there are 16 habits that are employed by characteristically intelligent people, and that these habits will form the basis for what general society terms as “success”.

Some examples of these habits of mind are:

• Persistence (sticking to the task at hand and seeing it through);
• Managing impulsivity (taking time to consider options and remaining calm); and
• Striving for accuracy (in thought, words and actions).

Too often, we do not encourage such positive behaviours and habits in our children, and they bear the brunt of our negligence later in life as they grapple with their schoolwork and later their careers.

We all know people who just can’t seem to cope with the challenges of real life due to certain bad habits of mind

The repercussions of bad habits in thinking

Have you seen a typically “unlucky” person who consistently just doesn’t seem to get anything right, or a colleague who never seems to be able to get the job done on time?

Such negative behaviour could be due to the habits that he or she formed over the years, starting from childhood.

Sometimes such people give up too easily, or they do not consider all factors before jumping into action and rush headlong into activities that are detrimental to them and even others.

Creating positive habits of mind for holistic intelligence

Dr Costa asserts that there are ways to nurture positive habits in thinking that will seed behaviourial changes to allow every individual to lead a more fulfilled life.

The good news is that these Habits of Mind can be inculcated in children as young as 3 years old.

Dr Arthur Costa will be in Singapore on 24 January to share his experience from educating successful individuals for 30 years.

Learn more about ‘Habits of Mind’ and how it can benefit your child!

To learn more about the ‘Habits of Mind’, join Global EduHub’s first ever symposium on “Nurturing Preschoolers’ Habits of S.U.C.C.E.S.S” to get you ready for your child’s future.

DETAILS

Date: Saturday, 24 January 2015

Time: 9.00am to 1.00pm (Registration starts at 8.30am)

Prices: S$10 per person for parents with children enrolled in Global EduHub education centres, and at S$15 per person for the general public.  Tickets include an educational bag worth S$200.

Venue: The Nexus Auditorium at #05-07, Cuppage Plaza

Tickets are available for sale through all Global EduHub education centres, and from the Global EduHub symposium website.

You can contact Global EduHub at +65 6449 3695 or email rsvpsymposium2015@global-eduhub.com for more details.

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Where can you find bilingual preschools in Singapore that provide a solid foundation in bilingualism for your child? Read this article to find out!

“If you are bilingual, you have binocular vision, then you see the world in 3-D” – Lee Kuan Yew

Singapore’s founding father the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew was certainly speaking with his legendary far-sightedness when he spoke of the benefits of bilingualism in a speech in Parliament in 1977.

In Singapore, bilingualism has been acknowledged for its ability to “bridge the gap between East and West and enable our people to be highly mobile in the globalised world.”

Parents today understand the need for their children to learn more than one language to be true World citizens some day. According to language experts, teaching a child a second language at a young age is advantageous because it imparts:

• A positive effect on intellectual growth
• More flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language and a better ear for listening
• Greater communication options with a wide range of people
• Cultural sensitivity
• A career head-start because knowing another language is a real advantage in many jobs

Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools can help your child become a confident bilingual communicator.

These benefits of bilingualism have been understood and embraced by Lorna Whiston Schools for many years.

You may know Lorna Whiston as one of Singapore’s top providers of quality English language enrichment programmes. However, they also run two bilingual preschools in Singapore — the Raintree Cove and Winchester facilities — that offer superlative bilingual education.

Raintree Cove Principal Joy Yeo and Winchester Principal Lynn Lin speak about their school’s bilingual environment and education on the next page.

Lynn Lin, the Principal of Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Winchester

Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools: Setting the foundation for bilingual education

Both Lynn and Joy see bilingualism as an essential life skill that all children should possess and one that will help them both in school and once they grow up. In short, it helps children become effective communicators in real world situations.

The Principals also emphasise the importance of starting at preschool level where the foundation will be set for bilingualism.

Joy Yeo, the Pricipal of Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Raintree Cove, and a past student who came to visit her.

What makes the Lorna Whiston bilingual programmes special?

Both Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools offer a full immersion bilingual programme and a hands-on, engaging and holistic curriculum that provide children with a solid foundation in bilingualism.

Lynn explains that both pre-schools have two fully qualified teachers at all times, with one speaking Mandarin and one speaking English. Together, they conduct all lessons, which means that kids are immersed in a bilingual environment at all times at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools.

This is in contrast to many other schools which often have one main teacher who speaks one particular language (usually English) and another teacher (Mandarin) who teaches just one class.

Bilingual preschools in Singapore: Kids’ art work on display at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Winchester.

The benefits of having two teachers

If you have grown up in a bilingual environment, then you’ll know that the constant exposure to a natural flow of two languages is what helped you become competent in both.

This is exactly how the two teachers who work at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools operate. They maintain a natural flow of both English and Mandarin right through the day.

The best part about it is that it happens in a very natural setting. For example, for show-and-tell, a child may present a certain topic in Mandarin one week, and in English another week on a different topic. Even outside of lessons, such as lunch time, toileting and free play, both the English and Chinese teachers are present to converse and engage with the children in both languages.

A natural flow of both English and Mandarin is ensured right through the day, which helps kids becomes fluent communicators in both languages.

What’s more, during all classes (apart from core language lessons), both teachers conduct the lessons in equal capacity as “main teachers”. Both Lynn and Joy agree that this is indeed the most effective way to get children to speak and understand both languages effectively.

Lynn explains that all their teachers make it a point to form a great relationship with each child by establishing a sense of trust and not putting unnecessary pressure on any of the children.

When this relationship is established, a child will naturally feel drawn to that teacher and strive to find the words in either language to be able to communicate effectively.

What’s a typical day like at a Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school? Find out on the next page…

A brightly decorated classroom at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Winchester.

A typical classroom scenario at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools

Taking a maths lesson as an example, the English teacher might on that day introduce the topic of patterning. The Chinese teacher will also be there and she will tune in to what the English teacher says, reinforce the concept in Mandarin and provide continuation of the topic also in Mandarin.

So, while the English teacher may have initially introduced the topic, the Chinese teacher may give the kids some instructions on how they can explore patterns, in Mandarin.

If a child has a question, he can direct it to either of the teachers and that teacher will answer in the language that she uses. Teachers also translate for non-local students who may need it.

Joy Yeo on the left and Fiona Chin on the right. Fiona carries her youngest daughter while her older daughter gets a cuddle from Joy!

Parents, you know that the best reviews of pre-schools are from other parents, right? Here’s mummy Fiona Chin’s glowing testimonial about Lorna Whiston pre-school:

I believe the early years are important for setting a strong foundation in language learning. Lorna Whiston provides a holistic and fun learning environment for both English and Chinese language which allows my child to have a strong foundation from a young age.

My eldest daughter started with Lorna Whiston Playgroup at 18 months and graduated last year. Lorna Whiston prepared her very well for primary one, in my opinion, in both the academics as well as personal and social developments. Hence, when my younger daughter turned 18 months, Lorna Whiston was our first and preferred choice!

How do Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools prepare your child for primary school? Find out on the next page. 

Outdoor play is made fun for kids at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Winchester.

A perfect fit with the MOE curriculum

Children who go through Lorna Whiston’s bilingual pre-schools will usually have no issues adapting to a local Primary school environment. Because the preschools ensure all children have a strong foundation in bilingualism, children are also easily able to transit into the Chinese programme at primary school level with confidence.

What’s more, through active liaison with local primary schools, the staff of Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools are always conscious of the shifts in the MOE curriculum, and make slight changes to their own programme to accommodate these, if needed.

Fun times at the recent Spring Carnival held at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Raintree Cove.

Well-qualified teachers for quality bilingual education

Lynn explains that all of the Chinese teachers at both Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools are well-qualified native Mandarin speakers. Teachers are also offered on-going training based on very identified and specific needs.

Parents get involved too!

Parents of kids at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools are kept updated about their children’s progress and activities on a very regular basis.

The pre-schools also conduct fairs where parents can really get involved. Furthermore, workshops are conducted for parents at a minimum charge and parent-teacher meetings are held twice a year.

Happy mums of happy kids at the recent Spring Carnival held at Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-school @ Raintree Cove.

Lynn explains that besides all these forms of communication and involvement for parents, their open-door policy encourages parents to have a chat with the teachers at any time and about any concerns they may have.

Mums and dads, if Lorna Whiston’s bilingual pre-schools seem like to ideal place for your child and you’d like your child to learn how to “see the world in 3-D”, why not contact them today on the details provided below? They would love to hear from you!

Contact details

Pre-school @ Winchester

Address: 9 Winchester Road, Singapore 117783

Telephone: 6272 8826

Email: winchester@lornawhiston.com.sg

Pre-school @ Raintree Cove

Address: 1018 East Coast Parkway, #02-03 Raintree Cove Singapore 449877

Telephone: 6448 8846

Email: raintreecove@lornawhiston.com.sg

You may also send them a registration enquiry by clicking this link.

Parents, if your child goes to either of these bilingual preschools in Singapore or if you know someone whose child does, we’d love to hear what you think about them. Please tell us by leaving a comment below. 

The post Lorna Whiston bilingual pre-schools – helping your children become true World citizens appeared first on Singapore Parenting Magazine for baby, children, kids and parents.

Nurturing your child through his early years at EtonHouse Bilingual Pre-school @ Upper Bukit Timah Road can help lay a strong foundation for his future.

Children’s early years are when the foundation of their future is built, and choosing a preschool is crucial to setting this foundation.

Education experts point out that an important component of this foundation is bilingualism. A bilingual brain is quicker and nimbler, and comes with benefits such as the ability to deal with ambiguities and solve problems.

For these reasons and more, it’s no surprise that parents today want a preschool for their children that offers a successful and well regarded inquiry-based bilingual programme — such as EtonHouse.

Valuing a holistic and multifaceted approach to early education, EtonHouse is a well-known provider of high quality preschool education in Singapore, taking great pride in their inquiry-based ‘Inquire Think Learn’ curriculum. Their programme develops not just knowledge and academic skills, but also social skills and, most importantly, a love of learning itself.

They recently opened a bilingual preschool on Upper Bukit Timah road, and, as a mum of two young kids myself, I was very excited to take a tour of this facility and see what they had to offer.

The ‘Inquire Think Learn’ curriculum of EtonHouse extends to their newest bilingual pre-school at Upper Bukit Timah Road too.

A warm, welcoming space

EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah finds home in a five-storey building, with each level innovatively designed and decorated to stimulate and nurture your child in every way.

They have classes for children from Pre-nursery to Kindergarten 2. 

As you walk in to the reception area of EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah, be prepared for a warm welcome from preschool principal Ng Shu Ping, who will explain the purpose and intention behind how the space in the school is designed.

The preschool is beautifully decorated, but this is more than the work of a highly skilled interior designer.

Ng explained that they firmly believe in creating a respectful space and a stimulating environment for children, which they wanted the learning environment of the entire preschool to reflect.

She went on to say that the school was specially designed by their own educators who have carefully set up the learning environment with a variety of materials and resources strategically placed to stimulate the minds and senses of the children.

On the next page, find out about the amazing “specialist studios” for little ones.

The library is a cozy and inviting space that invites little ones to get comfy on a cushion and enjoy reading and listening to their favourite stories.

Specialist studios

Each level of EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah has been planned out with a unique learning theme in mind and, as such, is home to several “specialist studios.”

These studios have all been designed to promote and nurture the EtonHouse approach to learning, which acknowledges the sociocultural principle that kids understand their world through meaningful interaction with peers, material, and adults.

As such, each space is not just aesthetically pleasing, but also full of meaningful and open-ended resources to provoke and promote thinking in your little one.

Emphasis is placed on the organisation of materials and resources to invite children to engage in active and hands-on experiences .

The Visual Arts Studio

Located on the second level and at the heart of the preschool, kids here are supported by a full-time art teacher. 

It is full of light and has strategically placed crayons, pencils, markers, and painting materials for little ones to express themselves creatively.

The preschool also believes in teaching kids about the importance of recycling. Plenty of natural materials are made available to kids for their art projects. You’ll also see that the environment is quite “print rich,” with the inclusion of writing tools such as pens, post cards, and envelopes, encouraging kids to practice and develop their literacy skills.

During their experiences with a specialist teacher, kids are encouraged to express themselves through painting and other forms of art.

The Performing Arts Studio

This studio is equipped with a range of musical instruments for little musicians to have fun, while learning at the same time. What’s more, your child’s musical talents will be honed by a music specialist who visits twice a week.

Read about the beautiful rooftop garden and more on the next page. 

The Mandarin Cultural Room

Red Chinese silk parasols hanging prettily from the ceiling, a beautiful calligraphy set, kid-sized silk Chinese costumes, and plenty of Mandarin kids’ books can be found in this gorgeous room.

As with every space that can be found in EtonHouse at Upper Bukit Timah, this room is designed to stimulate your child’s mind while nurturing his Mandarin skills.

The beautiful Mandarin Cultural Room at EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah!

The indoor and outdoor play areas

Every morning for an hour, little ones get plenty of exercise in the indoor and outdoor play areas located on the fifth storey.

The former is well-equipped with sturdy play equipment and a big square of soft, green synthetic lawn. Kids are coached by a dedicated physical education specialist.

Children spend an hour a day getting active in both the indoor and outdoor play areas. Here, you see the very spacious indoor play area.

The latter has a beautiful little pavilion draped with soft fabric in pastel shades where little ones can dance while others play pots-and-pan musical instruments hung on a wall. There is also a water-play area, and little garden plots for kids to get their hands dirty, while learning about plants and gardening at the same time.

The beautiful rooftop garden which provides children with a range of experiences including sand play, water play, gardening, music and more.

Other than the specialist studios, little ones also get to learn about science through play with light and shadows in the light studio. Meanwhile, the performing arts space on level three cultivates the imagination and self-expression of little theater thespians by providing them with a variety of colourful costumes, a mini stage, and much more.

Healthy, yummy eats

EtonHouse’s approach to a holistic curriculum includes your child’s nutrition. The preschool provides three freshly prepared and well-balanced daily meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack) for the kids.

Lunch menu samples include chicken Bolognese with parmesan cheese; teriyaki chicken with broccoli, carrot and steamed rice; and egg fried rice with salmon flakes and mixed vegetables.

Vegetarians are also well catered to, with a separate vegetarian menu.

To read about how excellent bilingual education is provided to your little ones, and to book a tour, please go to the next page.

In the light studio, kids are introduced to science concepts such as light and shadows.

Bilingual education par excellence

At EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah, children are immersed in an integrated and immersive dual-language environment where language learning is spontaneous, relevant, and consistent.

For each group of kids there is one Mandarin teacher and one English teacher who maintain the ideal bilingual environment where kids are always exposed to two languages.

The role of the two teachers is not to translate what the other says, but instead, to ensure the natural flow of both languages. With exposure to both languages in this way at all times, children are enabled to think and understand concepts in two different languages and communicate effectively in them.

As a result, you can rest assured that when your little ones are ready for the next big phase in their life — primary school — they will be effectively bilingual, confident, intellectually curious, open-minded, and creative in spirit and bound to be successful in any environment they go to in the future.

Sensory corridors are shared spaces that offer children a range of materials meant to provoke wonder and curiosity

Don’t miss the Open House!

Saturday, 25 July 2015, 9.30 am – 3 pm

9.30 am – 11.15 am             Conversations with Alumni and Kindergarten children

11.30 am – 12.30 pm          Neuroceramics workshop by Da Vinci Group

12.30 pm – 1.30 pm           Soccer by Tinytots (limited spaces; call to reserve your slot)

1.30 pm – 2.30 pm             Dance workshop by Dancepointe

2 pm – 3 pm                         Model and Lego Building by Bricks 4 Kidz

Immerse in our teacher-led experiences offered across Pre-Nursery to Kindergarten classrooms with a strong focus on bilingualism, literacy and numeracy, and join in our engaging and fun-filled workshops.

RSVP to enjoy an exclusive waiver of registration fee.

Parents, why not head for the Open House at EtonHouse @ Upper Bukit Timah and tell us what you think about it by posting a comment below? We would really love to hear from you!

The post The doors to quality early years education open at EtonHouse Bilingual Pre-school @ Upper Bukit Timah appeared first on Singapore Parenting Magazine for baby, children, kids and parents.

As far as kids go, if it isn’t cool math they’re learning, then the lesson is over even before it begins. Counting games for children–how important are they and are your little ones getting most out of their math games?

While it is fair to say that calculus and algebra are not something every person needs to function in life, there are certain basic mathematical concepts that everyone needs to be proficient in. And the sooner you introduce your children to these concepts, the better.

Math games for kids 2-4 years of age

Counting games for 2-4 year olds will consist of the most basic elements of counting to five and 10. Children this age will memorise numbers before they understand the concept of numbers.

In other words, 1-2-3 will be memorised before they fully understand how much 1, 2 or 3 is. The math games you can play include:

• Counting fingers and toes
• Counting stairs
• Playing hide and seek
• Playing with puzzles
• Counting games in the form of nursery rhymes
• Books that teach numbers and basic counting
• Naming and counting the people in your family

Math games for kids 5-7 years of age

Children this age will understand simple number values and the concepts of more/less and big/little amounts and numbers. Therefore, it is very important to keep math games as easy to learn as possible.

Kids in this age bracket will enjoy sorting and grouping, figuring out which group has more and having more than someone else. Counting games, math apps, and activities suitable for this age group include:

• Simple board games like Candy Land and Trouble
• Storybooks that focus on counting
• Sorting and counting shapes, blocks, coloured candies, coins, socks–basically, anything ‘countable’
• Setting the table and counting out the number of plates, napkins and table service needed
• Playing a mind-reader game. Think of a number and have your child guess it. Use words like more or less, higher or lower so she familiarizes herself with math vocab
• Playing other simple everyday games like tic tac toe and dominoes to help build her math skills

Children in this age group understand the concepts of addition and subtraction and can do simple math problems. Hence, here is where math apps come in handy. Children on the older end of this age group will also be able to multiply and divide, do fractions, determine greater than and less than and count money.

The will be doing math in school, but that does not mean you shouldn’t enhance the skills they learn by playing math games and doing counting activities at home. To ensure they’re getting the cool math they need, here are things to include:

• Playing games like Sorry, Monopoly and Crazy Eight’s
• Cooking and baking to use measuring skills
• Sorting and organising movies and books
• Counting money in their piggy bank
• Playing store
• Cutting a cake (fractions)
• Dividing candy between family members or friends
• Figuring the cost of a family outing

Cool math games for kids–gotta have it!

 The basics of math aren’t going anywhere. That is why it is so important to help your child have a complete understanding for the why and how of mathematics.

So parents, what’re waiting for? It’s time to bring out these suggested cool math games for kids and let them at it! If done right, math games will never be boring again. 

The post Cool math games for kids! appeared first on Singapore Parenting Magazine for baby, children, kids and parents.

Entering Primary 1 marks a huge milestone in your child’s journey. Your little one is growing up and taking the first step on their formative path. This year, Phase 1 of Primary One registration for 2018 enrollment begins as early as 29 June 2017. 

Open house season is now upon us, offering a great way to check out potential schools for your children. Both parents and kids can head down to take a tour and talk to teachers, so as to select the learning environment that can draw out the best in your little ones.  

To help you out, we’ve put together a handy list of primary school open houses dates, ordered by housing area. We’ve also come up with some tips to learn all you need from your open house visit.

How to make the most of the open house

1) Talk to current students

This is far and away the most telling way to gauge a school environment. If possible, talk to some students and ask if they enjoy school. Ask them about their friends, their favourite teachers and subjects — if they are happy in school, they’ll definitely have lots to tell you about! 

2) Talk to the teachers

Questions you can ask include the kind of the classroom environment they strive to create. Don’t hesitate to make queries more specific to your child’s needs — for example, if your child is on the shy side, you could ask how they encourage children to speak up. 

If you get a chance, do also look out for how teachers interact with current students. 

3) Go on a school tour

A school tour, if any, offers you a comprehensive look at the facilities. Observe whether they are well-maintained so as to present a safe environment for the little ones. 

If your children have any specific interests e.g. in sports, it’s also a great time to check out whether the facilities are adequate to support their interests. 

4) Mingle with other parents

Socializing with other parents will give you a great chance to exchange information and compare opinions on the school. You may be able to pick up hearsay or advice that can help you make the choice for your little ones.   

List of open house dates

Open house information in this non-exhaustive list has been obtained from MOE-run blog site Schoolbag, as well as sourced from school websites.

Ang Mo Kio:

Jing Shan Primary School

Date: 29/06/2017 and 30/06/2017

Time: 10am – 12pm

Address: 5 Ang Mo Kio St 52 Singapore 569228 

School website: www.jingshanpri.moe.edu.sg

Townsville Primary School

Date: 04/07/2017, 06/07/2017, 07/07/2017, 10/07/2017, 12/07/2017, 14/07/2017, 19/07/2017

Time: 10 – 11.30am

Address: 3 Ang Mo Kio Ave 10 Singapore 569730 

School website: http://townsvillepri.moe.edu.sg

Bedok:

Opera Estate Primary School

Date: 13/07/2017

Time: 3 – 4.30pm

Address: 48 Fidelio Street Singapore 458436

Registration for school visits: http://bit.ly/2qUY3eK

Bishan

Guangyang Primary School

Date: 15/07/2017

Time: 8.30am – 12pm

Address: 6 Bishan Str 12 Singapore 579806

Registration for Open House: http://bit.ly/2rVFO98 

Bukit Batok

Keming Primary School

Date: 01/07/2017

Time: 8.30am – 12pm

Address: 90, Bukit Batok East Avenue 6  659762

School website: http://kemingpri.moe.edu.sg/

Lianhua Primary School

Date: 12/07/2017

Time: 8am

Address: 2 Bukit Batok Street 52 Singapore 659243

School website: Register for Breakfast Chat with the Principal here. 

Bukit Merah

CHIJ (Kellock)

Date: 20/06/2017, 21/06/2017

Time: 10 – 11.30am

Address: 121 Queensway 149059

School website: http://chijkellock.moe.edu.sg/

Zhangde Primary School

Date: 01/07/2017

Time: 9am-12pm

Address: 51 Jalan Membina Singapore 169485

School website: http://zhangdepri.moe.edu.sg

Bukit Panjang

Beacon Primary School

Date: 07/07/2017

Time: 5.30 – 8pm

Address: 36 Bukit Panjang Ring Road Singapore 679944

School website: http://beaconpri.moe.edu.sg

Choa Chu Kang

Concord Primary School

Date: 08/07/2017

Time: 9am – 1.30pm

Address: 3 Choa Chu Kang Ave 4 Singapore 689814

School website: http://concordpri.moe.edu.sg/

Kranji Primary School

Date: 30/06/2017

Time: 9-11am

Address:  11 Choa Chu Kang Street 54 Singapore 689189

School website: http://kranjipri.moe.edu.sg

Unity Primary School

Date: 11/07/2017, 18/07/2017

Time: 9 – 10.30am

Address: 21 Choa Chu Kang Crescent Singapore 688268

School website: http://unitypri.moe.edu.sg

Geylang

Canossa Convent Primary School

Date: 01/07/2017

Time: 9am – 1pm

Address:  1 Sallim Road Singapore 387621

Registration for Open House: bit.ly/2nVDj3T

Haig Girls’ School

Date: 28/06/2017, 29/06/2017

Time: 8.30am-  12pm

Address: 51 Koon Seng Road Singapore 427072 

School website: http://haiggirls.moe.edu.sg/

Hougang

Punggol Primary School

Date: 15/07/2017

Time: 8.30 – 11am

Address: 61 Hougang Avenue 8 Singapore 538787

School website: http://punggolpri.moe.edu.sg

Jurong West

Frontier Primary School

Date: 14/07/2017

Time: 12 – 5pm

Address: 20 Jurong West St 61 Singapore 648200

School website: http://frontierpri.moe.edu.sg

Jurong West Primary School

Date: 10/07/2017, 11/07/2017, 12/07/2017

Time: 8.30am – 1pm

Address: 30 Jurong West St 61 Singapore 648368

Registration for Open House: http://bit.ly/2sxYVDh 

Juying Primary School

Date:  04/07/2017

Time: 9 – 11.30am

Address: 31 Jurong West Street 91 Singapore 649037

School website: http://www.juyingpri.moe.edu.sg

Punggol

Horizon Primary School

Date:  30/06/2017

Time: 2.30 – 5pm

Address: 61 Edgedale Plains Singapore 828819 

Horizon Primary School is organising a Parent’s Tour to replace the Open House.

Punggol Green Primary School 

Date:  08/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12pm

Address: 98 Punggol Walk Singapore 828772

School website: http://www.punggolgreenpri.moe.edu.sg

Waterway Primary School

Date: 07/07/2017

Time: 9 – 11am

Address: 70 Punggol Drive Singapore 828802

School website: http://waterwaypri.moe.edu.sg

Queenstown

New Town Primary School

Date: 22/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12pm

Address: 300 Tanglin Halt Road Singapore 148812

School website: http://newtownpri.moe.edu.sg

Sembawang

Canberra Primary School

Date: 15/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12.30pm

Address: 21 Admiralty Drive Singapore 757714 

School website: http://canberrapri.moe.edu.sg

Northoaks Primary School

Date: 15/07/2017

Time: 9 – 11am

Address: 61 Sembawang Drive Singapore 757622

School website: http://northoakspri.moe.edu.sg

Sembawang Primary School 

Date: 22/07/2017

Time: 8.30am – 12pm

Address: 10 Sembawang Drive Singapore 757715 

School website: http://sembawangpri.moe.edu.sg

Sengkang

Compassvale Primary School

Date:  15/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12pm

Address: 21 Compassvale St Singapore 545091

School website: http://compassvalepri.moe.edu.sg

North Vista Primary School

Date: 07/07/2017

Time: 9 – 11am

Address: 20 Compassvale Link Singapore 544974 

Email to register interest: nvtps@moe.edu.sg

Seng Kang Primary School 

Date: 14/07/2017

Time: 8.30 – 11.30am

Address: 21 Compassvale Walk Singapore 545166 

School website: http://sengkangpri.moe.edu.sg/

Sengkang Green Primary School 

Date: 05/07/2017

Time: 8.45 – 11.45am

Address: 15 Fernvale Road Singapore 797636

School website: http://sengkanggreenpri.moe.edu.sg/

Springdale Primary School

Date: 04/07/2017, 11/7/2017

Time: 8.30-10am, 10.30am-12pm

Address: 71 Anchorvale Link Singapore 544799

School website: http://springdalepri.moe.edu.sg

Serangoon

Zhonghua Primary School

Date: 08/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12om

Address: 12 Serangoon Avenue 4 Singapore 556095

School website: http://zhonghuapri.moe.edu.sg

Toa Payoh

Cedar Primary School

Date: 30/06/2017

Time: 1.15 – 2.20pm

Address: 15 Cedar Avenue Singapore 349700

School website: http://cedarpri.moe.edu.sg

Woodlands

Innova Primary School 

Date: 08/07/2017

Time: 9.30am – 12pm

Address: 80 Woodlands Drive 17 Singapore 737888

School website: http://innovapri.moe.edu.sg

Riverside Primary School

Date: 08/07/2017 

Time: 9am – 12pm

Address: 110 Woodlands Crescent Singapore 737803

School website: http://www.riversidepri.moe.edu.sg

Si Ling Primary School

Date: 08/07/2017

Time: 9am – 12pm

Address: 61 Woodlands Avenue 1 Singapore 739067

School website: http://www.silingpri.moe.edu.sg

Yishun

Huamin Primary School

Date: 07/07/2017

Time: 3 – 5pm

Address: 21 Yishun Avenue 11 Singapore 768857

Registration for Open House: http://bit.ly/2rYwCAM

North View Primary School

Date:  07/07/2017

Time: 8.30 – 11.30am

Address: 210 Yishun Avenue 6 Singapore 768960 

Registration for Open House: http://bit.ly/2qRTJZo

Note: Primary schools not on this list are still in the midst of confirming their open house dates. Do look through MOE’s listing of primary schools to check out all the primary school options in your area. 

Do also check Schoolbag, an MOE-run blog site, for more updates on open house dates. 

ALSO READ: 12 words that your child should know before Primary 1 

The post The Singaporean parent’s guide to primary school open houses for 2017 appeared first on theAsianparent - Your Guide to Pregnancy, Baby & Raising Kids.

It’s indisputable that the right preschool is the Holy Grail for any mum. And of the many factors that mums consider when choosing a preschool, they find themselves caught in the dilemma of deciding between a local or international preschool.

To set the record straight, one is not better than the other. The question of which is a better choice doesn’t elicit a direct and immediate answer. It all boils down to what you are looking for in a preschool.

Instead of the usual list of pros and cons, having sent my child to both a local and international preschool, let me share with you some of my observations. 

Initial Considerations

An extremely important question that you need to ask yourself is – What do I want out of my child’s preschool? What is most important to me?

I am a full time working mum and I first started looking for a preschool when my firstborn was about 18 months old. At that stage, I needed a babysitter more than anything else. Although I had a trustable helper, I did not wish to leave him in her care the entire day, doing nothing particularly productive.

I thought long and hard about the differences between a local and international preschool. After visiting a minimum of 25 preschools, I finally arrived at my decision. I started sending my son to school shortly after he turned 2.

So what were my considerations?

1. Ambience.

I wanted a place that was a safe haven for my child. I wanted an aesthetically pleasing, non-threatening environment, where teachers are warm and welcoming and my child would feel at home. I didn’t welcome time out corners, scolding or the very notion of punishment.

I wanted a school with a cosy classroom.

I wanted a lot of play, warm lighting, artwork displayed in every corner and a relaxed atmosphere. I wanted it to be a simulacrum of home, where my son would feel really comfortable.

The minute I walked into centers with bright white lights and an overpowering smell of Dettol lingering around, I would strike it off my list. I also didn’t fancy schools that were too academic – worksheets were a complete no-go! Timetables that were too packed were also not ideal.

I decided on an international school because it suited my criteria. Situated on the Bukit Timah Stretch, it was a quaint bungalow, with a huge garden for play. The interior was nothing short of gorgeous.

I especially loved how the fairy lights gave the room a really cosy feel and children would sleep in their own little cot beds, with some relaxing music in the background. It felt like the ‘St. Regis of preschools’ as many mums describe it.

Based on what I observed from visiting many preschools, the ambience in a local and international school is quite different. International schools seem to have a more laid back environment that clearly paves the way for a child to learn through play. 

 2. Food

At best, my child is a picky eater and at worst he’s a terrible eater. It’s close to impossible to whet his appetite, really.

Food choices in a local and international preschool are of course, rather different. For me, the idea of my son stomaching porridge, fried rice and Bee Hoon soup was rather unsettling. He was not used to such food choices, as they are completely different from what we eat at home.

The international schools often carry menus that appeal to epicurean eaters. They have an interesting combination of food and some schools even claim that they use only fresh and organic ingredients. International schools also have more variety in their food options. 

The school I eventually decided on had a menu that seemed promising and there was even a ‘food tasting’ session during the school tour. Although this is not the most important consideration, at that point in time it was important for me.

I guess that food would be less, if not a non-issue, if it were a half-day kindergarten program. But because I was sending him in for full-day sessions, it was of great importance that he had food that he would enjoy.

Having said that, the vast majority of Singaporean children are perfectly fine with porridge and Bee Hoon, in fact they love it!

3. Language

There is a huge disparity in how language is used and taught in a local and international preschool. I would say that there’s no winner in this category. It is completely based on what language outcome you want for your child.

A show and tell session.

I wanted my son to have the best possible foundation in English language. My first impressions of the centers that I visited were based on how the staff and students spoke to me. The use of non-standard English made me raise eyebrows.

However, Singapore has a bilingual policy and all children need to take a mother tongue when they go to primary school. If mother tongue is an important factor for you, then I suggest sending your child to a local school. You are bound to get a better start in Mandarin.

International schools on the other hand, may have native English speakers. The children are often equally clueless about mother tongue considering the diverse backgrounds that they come from.

Moreover, if you wish for your child to take a mother tongue other than Mandarin, in a local preschool, you would have to send him to a kindergarten that is fully immersed and not racially diverse. Some international schools offer minority languages such as Hindi, while maintaining diversity in the student profile.

Once again, it really depends on what you want!

Read on to find out more about the differences between a local and international preschool. 

4. Learning Approach

I wanted my son to see a cat, run his fingers through its fur and hear it meow before learning the word cat, or being introduced to what a cat is. I wanted his learning to be inquiry based, through play and exploring.

I particularly liked how the students in the school I eventually chose, would walk out to the garden barefooted and get their hands involved in gardening, and explore the different plants, trees and bushes. The kids love it!

I’m not saying that local schools do not offer inquiry-based learning, but the teaching methods and approaches may be more similar to that in a local primary school. The focus may be more towards preparing them for the local school syllabus.

Even for reading, some international schools move away from the usual Phonics based reading and use the whole language approach instead. There’s a lot of emphasis on soft skills as opposed to academically preparing children for school.

This is a good and bad thing because while the children may learn to speak better and more quickly, they make take longer to read and write.

The choice between a local and international school, on the basis of learning approaches, is quite clear.
Some mums prefer something less clinical and more relaxed for their children’s preschool lives. This is because they know that their children are going to be in the local school system for many years ahead. Others are more concerned about preparing their children academically.

If you want your child to have more fun while learning, go for an international preschool. If being primary 1 ready is your main goal, go for a local preschool. 

A collaborative project done by kindergarten students in an international preschool.

5. Cost

The cost factor is significantly different in a local and international school. International schools of course come with a hefty price tag. Even with the full working mother subsidy, you can expect to pay a few thousand dollars per term.

Local preschools are generally more affordable, and have more subsidies if they are government run. However, some of the more popular local preschools also do not come cheap. 

6. Location

If you need a school that’s a stone’s throw from your house, and if you don’t live in the Bukit Timah, Holland or Orchard Road stretch, a local preschool is likely to be a more suitable choice.

Local and international preschools are located differently. Local preschools are literally everywhere. International preschools, predictably, are situated closer to where the majority of the expat community resides.

Take for example Turf City. If you’re not driving, and if you do not live within walking distance, sending your child in is going to be a nightmare!

7. Teacher to Student Ratio

The authorities have clear rules about the maximum teacher to student ratio according to the various age groups. However, the student-teacher ratio in a local and international preschool might work differently. 

International schools generally have smaller class sizes and less children to one teacher. When my son was in pre-nursery, the teacher to student ratio was – 1 teacher to 3 students. There was a lot of individual attention given to the children and they were extremely fond of the teacher.

8. Other Considerations

The culture in a local and international preschool is extremely different. Local preschools give children an immersive experience and help to build the Singaporean identity from a young age. On the other hand, international preschools expose local children to different cultures and languages.

Being in an international school exposes children to different languages and cultures.

Also, longevity might be an issue in an international school. Ideally, children go to school to forge friendships that last a long time. It would be heartwarming to see your preschool classmate at your 16^th birthday party wouldn’t it?

This is the key difference in a local and international preschool. Children in international schools are often not here for long, or move when their parents get a transfer. So your child might get too attached to a friend only to get upset in a few months if he moves.

In the long run

I had no complaints about my son attending the international preschool that he was in. However, when he reached Nursery 2, I switched him over to a local church kindergarten. Why did I do that?

I was worried that he would get too used to the school culture in an international school, which is in stark contrast to our local school culture and he would suffer in a local primary school. Also, the level of competitiveness in a local and international preschool is different. 

Singaporean children are fiercely competitive from a young age, and it continues, as they grow older. This isn’t the culture in in the international schools which take on a more collaborative, group learning approach. Of course, if your child is going on to an international school eventually, then it would work out perfectly.

To be entirely honest, I eventually went against my own stand. Initially, I wanted nothing to do with worksheets and structured learning. However, as my child progressed to Nursery level, being the typical Singaporean that I am, I started comparing my son’s progress with my friend’s children. 

While my son was happy and looked forward to going to school everyday, I felt that the children in the local schools were far ahead in terms of academic progress. This sent warning bells ringing in my head.

I knew that of course my child would eventually read and write and catch up, but it also meant competing against all these children in the near future! So that’s something you might want to think about. 

It was a tough choice because as mentioned, local and international schools are known for different things. For example, what struck me when I did a school tour of some of the international schools was that the children who saw me, a complete stranger, did not hesitate to strike a conversation with me.

International schools may delay the introduction of letters and learning how to read, but they definitely groom the children to become confident and fluent speakers. In the international school that my son attended, children take ownership of their projects from a young age.

Children in an international preschool taking care of their ‘pet rabbit’.

An example would be a chandelier they made out of used Yakult bottles. It was hung up in the school as a permanent art display.

I also found my that in attending an international school, my son, who was once rather shy and reserved, turned into a confident chatterbox. He was also extremely curious about how everything worked. He asked me endless questions about where and how we get rain, how plants grow and the list goes on. 

I guess that for me, I tried to give my child the best of both worlds by starting him off in an international preschool and eventually shifting him to a local one.

Remember mums; don’t rush into your decision. Take time to explore what the schools have to offer and how different local and international preschools are. If you decide on one and later decide to move your child, that’s perfectly fine as well!

The post Local and international preschools: What’s the difference? appeared first on theAsianparent - Your Guide to Pregnancy, Baby & Raising Kids.

My parents used to drive my younger sister and I everywhere or would make sure that we had a ride home from school, a friend’s house, or from a party.

Only when I was about 11 years old, my mother reluctantly agreed to let me and my sister walk about 10 minutes from home to our piano lessons by ourselves just once because she had an urgent business matter to attend to.

We were so nervous and excited at this new-found freedom but were abruptly brought back to reality when we were about to walk at a zebra crossing and were loudly honked at by an oncoming car.

Although we did manage to reach our music school in one piece, it was a sobering reminder that anything can happen in the blink of an eye and as kids, we should have been more alert and aware of our surroundings, whether or not we had the right of way when crossing the road.

If our mother ever found out about that close shave, she probably would have blamed herself for letting us travel alone and would constantly be sick with worry whenever we were out of her sight (more than she usually would!).

But not all parents have the time nor luxury of shuttling their children back and forth between school and home, so it’s not an uncommon sight to see Primary School students here taking the bus by themselves.

So if your kid travels home alone from school, how do you ensure that he stays safe?

Here are some important precautions you should go through carefully with your child who travels home alone from school:

1. Be a perfect pedestrian

When your child travels home alone from school, does he/she know how to safely cross the roads?

Remember going to the Road Safety Park with your classmates for a school outing?

It was awesome to get to ride on the bicycles, but those who were stuck being pedestrians probably grumbled about how absolutely boring it was.

However, it’s actually a great way for kids to learn more about the proper way to cross a road and how to stay safe while navigating their way around on foot.

Just remind your child about the Singapore Road Safety Council’s basic rules such as:

• Don’t jaywalk! Always cross at proper pedestrian crossings
• Be alert and watch out for oncoming traffic
• Use footpaths whenever possible
• Avoid crossing in front of or in between stationary vehicles
• Wait until the “green man” lights up before crossing 

2. No personalised name tags

Most parents will get personalised sticker labels of their kid’s name and stick it on their pencil case, water bottle, books and pretty much every single item they own!

But you might want to hold off on getting junior’s name embroided onto his jacket or schoolbag because if a complete stranger sees it and calls him by name, your child might be more willing to trust him and even follow him.

3. Old enough

Make sure that your child is at the right age and absolutely ready to be going home on his own.

Once he is around 10 – 12 years old (Primary 4 and up), this is usually when he will be ready to make his way home from school by himself.

But of course this also depends on each child’s level of maturity.

4. Secret password

Experts recommend you create a family password for your kids to use when faced with strangers or uncomfortable situations they need to get out of.

If a stranger approaches your child and claims that he’s picking him up from school on your behalf that day, but is unable to give the secret password, then your child will know he was definitely not sent by you!

5. Beware of “Tricky People”

Although you may think it’s good to teach your child to be wary of strangers, it is actually better to tell him to watch out for “tricky people“.

A “tricky person” is an unsafe adult who will try to trick your little one into doing something wrong or dangerous.

They can even be a relative or family friend, or a well-dressed stranger who only appears harmless based on their outer appearance.

6. Know when to run

Tell your child to always trust his gut instinct which is when he gets an uneasy feeling inside that sets off his warning bells about someone or something.

It is also known as that “uh oh feeling“, that will give him an urge to run away from whoever or whatever he feels may be putting him in danger.

7. Getting lost

Teach your child what to do in case he ever gets lost and can’t find his way home.

Should he call you on the phone? Go to the nearest bus stop and use the bus guide to figure out where he is? Ask a safe adult for help?

Whatever it is, remind him to always stay calm and be focused while he tries to figure out his next steps.

8. Stay connected

Your child should send you a text message or call you as soon as he gets home.

Make it a habit for your child to touch base with you once he reaches home safe and sound.

Either he can just send you a text message to let you know he’s alright, or he can also give you a quick phonecall so you can breathe easy.

9. Have a travel buddy

If your child has a schoolmate who lives at the same block or estate as you do, it’s a good idea for him to buddy up and have a travelling companion.

That way, they can watch out for one another and also keep each other company during the commute to school and back home.

You can also call the travel buddy or her parents in case of emergencies if you are unable to reach your child for some reason.

10. Practice together

As a trial run, let your child go home from school by himself as you follow him without stepping in to show him the way.

This will be good practice for him to get used to the route while still under the safety of your close supervision.

You may also want to try reenacting certain scenarios he might face (like getting stopped by a stranger, or taking the wrong bus, or getting lost) and what exactly he should do in such a situation.

Does your kid travel home alone from school? What are the important precautions you practice with your kids? Share it with us by leaving a comment below!

The post “My Kid Travels Home Alone From School”: Safety Tips for Kids and Parents to Know appeared first on theAsianparent - Your Guide to Pregnancy, Baby & Raising Kids.

The world’s largest pre-school for kids aged 18 months to six years was officially opened in Singapore today (August 30). 

The Early Learning Village is a collaboration between the Australian International School (AIS) and the Stamford International School. At 50,000 sq ft, more than 100 classrooms and five buildings, it has the capacity to take in 2,100 children, says a Channel NewsAsia report.  

A snapshot of the play area and pool. Image: screengrab, Channel NewsAsia

Some of the features of the village include: 

• Multifunctional spaces like outdoor play decks
• A 20m swimming pool complete with lanes for both beginners and more confident swimmers
• Cosy, intimate spaces for the kids (despite the large size). For example, kids in the same year group are housed on separate floors and ‘classroom communities’ are found in groups of four to create little communities on each level. 

All nationalities are welcome at the Early Learning Village. More than 80 Singaporean kids are already enrolled. 

According to Channel NewsAsia, “fees vary depending on the age of the child and number of days attending. For a three-year-old attending the school five days a week, the fee is around S$14,500 per semester.”

Despite the fact that AIS and Stamford American are on the same location, they are independent schools and offer different curriculums. Stamford offers the International Baccalaureate and US curriculum from August to June, while AIS offers the Australian curriculum from January to December.

So parents, would you enroll your child here? We’d love to hear your opinions!

Reference: Channel NewsAsia

The post The largest preschool in the world is now open in Singapore! appeared first on theAsianparent - Your Guide to Pregnancy, Baby & Raising Kids.