Children of My First Skool at Blk 601 Ang Mo Kio performing the nursery rhyme titled ‘Trampoline’ on August 3.
On August 3, My First Skool (MFS) at Blk 601 Ang Mo Kio was awarded second prize for its nursery rhyme titled ‘Trampoline’ in the ‘Thumbs Up Little Junior’ Nursery Rhymes Competition. There was a total of 475 entries, which is the highest number received for the competition in the past 9 years.
Gan Chun Yan, Chinese Senior Teacher, said the nursery rhyme was inspired by her daily observations of children enjoy jumping on trampolines and cotton candy.
“We combined this popular activity with our rich imagination, bringing trampolines and cotton candy to the stage,” she added.
Dr Connie Lum, Director of Mother Tongue Language Curriculum, NTUC First Campus, was also a judge at the event.
“The nursery rhymes competition is not just for teachers and students. I am delighted to see some entries involving parents this year, giving us a glimpse of family life at home. Families play a crucial role in encouraging children to love the Chinese language from a young age,” she said.
MFS also received 4 Commendation Awards and a Special Recognition Award at the competition.
Transitioning your child to primary school marks a significant milestone in their educational path. As parents, you devote substantial time and effort to equip them for this formal learning environment adequately.
But why is it crucial for your child to be ready for primary school? In this article, we discuss the importance of being ready for primary school and how this lays the foundation for a successful academic and personal journey.
Being primary school-ready offers substantial advantages by establishing a foundation for academic excellence. Children with fundamental skills like literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving enter primary school confidently, ready to tackle educational hurdles.
By ensuring your child is prepared academically, you give them a head start in grasping new concepts and learning at a faster pace.
Preparation for primary school cultivates confidence and self-esteem in children. Armed with a sense of competence, they enter the classroom ready to engage actively, ask questions, and interact with peers and teachers.
This self-assurance plays a pivotal role in their academic achievements and fosters a positive attitude toward learning, which becomes a valuable asset throughout their lives.
Primary school readiness goes beyond academic skills and encompasses social skills development. Well-prepared children have honed abilities to interact with peers, share, take turns, and adeptly resolve conflicts.
Moreover, they exhibit confidence and ease in engaging with teachers, school staff, and other adults. They grasp the significance of adhering to school rules, demonstrating respect toward authority figures, and fostering a positive school atmosphere.
These social competencies are essential for fostering collaboration, forging friendships, and navigating diverse social scenarios within and beyond the classroom.
Behavioural adjustment is a part of primary school readiness. It involves the development of skills and attitudes necessary for navigating the social and academic challenges of the classroom.
It entails understanding and internalising the behavioural expectations within the classroom and school environment. Children prepared for primary school are familiar with these expectations and understand the significance of respecting authority, adhering to rules, and actively contributing to the classroom community.
Primary school readiness encompasses cultivating emotional resilience—the capacity to effectively cope with challenges, setbacks, and emotions. Children who have experienced diverse social environments possess enhanced emotional regulation and problem-solving skills, rendering them more resilient in adversity.
Emotional resilience helps them navigate the ups and downs of primary school life with confidence and maturity, fostering their overall well-being and readiness for academic and social success.
The advantages of being primary school-ready extend far beyond the early years of education; they build the foundation for long-term academic success. Children equipped with strong foundational skills before starting primary school are more likely to thrive academically, progress through high school graduation and pursue higher education or vocational training.
Investing in your child’s readiness for primary school sets them on a promising path towards a bright future.
Parents have a significant influence on preparing their children for primary school. By actively involved in their child’s learning and development, parents reinforce skills and knowledge acquired at home, facilitating a smooth transition to formal schooling. By actively engaging in their child’s learning and development, parents can reinforce skills and knowledge acquired at home and support their child’s transition to formal schooling.
Positive parental engagement strengthens the parent-child bond and cultivates a supportive environment conducive to academic and personal growth. This collaborative effort sets the stage for success in primary school and beyond.
The benefits of being primary school-ready are vast and impactful. By investing in your child’s readiness for primary school, you provide them with an optimal start to their educational journey, setting them up for success in the years ahead.
At My First Skool, we recognise the importance of preparing children for primary school. Our curriculum is designed to empower children with the essential skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive academically and socially. With our team of experienced educators, we are committed to nurturing each child’s individual needs and interests, fostering a solid foundation for lifelong achievement.
The Singapore Preschool Accreditation Framework, more commonly known as SPARK, is an initiative to enhance the quality of early childhood education in Singapore. It involves a set of guidelines, standards and resources for educators to provide high-quality learning and holistic care for their students. It is also one of the factors that set a top kindergarten apart from others here in Singapore.
Read on to find out what sets a SPARK-accredited kindergarten apart from the rest.
A proper education should no longer be limited to cognitive growth. A holistic approach is crucial in helping children develop socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively.
To ensure quality education, SPARK-accredited kindergartens undergo stringent tests by external assessors that determine the quality of their curriculum, pedagogy, child development, and staff qualifications. Additionally, a SPARK certification is valid for 6 years, encouraging SPARK-certified centres to continually improve their systems and curriculum to maintain their accreditation.
Each child’s growth is closely monitored through assessment tools and strategies to follow their children’s progress and development through kindergarten. SPARK-accredited kindergartens also provide a strong foundation in STEM, supporting children with a foothold in science, technology, engineering and maths for future academic success.
One of SPARK’s five core values is “professionalism with impact.” This means that teachers play an integral role in shaping the children’s characters and minds.
SPARK-accredited kindergartens enlist teachers with a strong background in early childhood education who are well-equipped to deliver comprehensive curriculums effectively. These teachers are not only well-qualified but also have a nurturing mindset and genuine dedication to the children’s growth. Staff must undergo ongoing professional development to ensure competency and relevancy with the latest childhood education practices.
A comprehensive SPARK-accredited preschool curriculum includes topics that encourage holistic development like:
A SPARK-accredited preschool has met high standards of providing a healthy, hygienic and safe environment. Some examples are:
SPARK-accredited kindergartens go the extra mile to enhance their learning resources and facilities for a more supportive learning environment. This includes:
Another framework of evaluation for SPARK accreditation is a preschool’s engagement with families and the community.
SPARK-accredited preschools implement effective feedback systems for parents and teachers to ensure transparency and consistent communication. This encourages parental involvement and allows parents to better understand their child’s learning journey and provide necessary support at home.
A good kindergarten is essential for establishing a strong foundation for your child. My First Skool is a SPARK-accredited kindergarten, dedicated to fostering holistic development and providing an environment and experiences that help your child grow to be their best self.
In a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s workforce, the children of My First Skool engaged in a series of meaningful activities to celebrate Labour Day, learning valuable lessons about the importance of work, community, and appreciation.
Across all 159 My First Skool centres, around 15,000 children from Nursery 2, Kindergarten 1, and Kindergarten 2 took part in a special May Day appreciation activity. With guidance from their teachers, these young learners delved into the roles of various professions, gaining insights into the daily contributions of different workers and developing a deep appreciation for the diverse roles within our society. The children were encouraged to ask questions and think critically about the people who assist them in their daily lives.
My First Skool children posing with their appreciation posters for Labour Day
As a part of their celebration, the children created Labour Day appreciation posters, both individually and in groups. These posters, which express gratitude towards the community’s workers, are displayed prominently across all My First Skool centres. Positioned along entrances, walkways, windows, and other areas, they allow parents and the broader community to read these messages of thanks penned by the children.
My First Skool children creating their Labour Day appreciation posters to show gratitude to workers
Several centres took the initiative to involve parents more directly by inviting them to share their gratitude for workers or by thanking the workers in the community in person. This inclusive approach not only strengthens community bonds but also models positive social behaviours for our children.
My First Skool’s commitment to community engagement extends beyond Labour Day. Throughout the year, our children participate in various activities, such as cleaning parks and beaches or interacting with seniors through My First Skool’s Intergenerational Programming. These activities teach them the importance of giving back, fostering a sense of empathy and responsibility.
As we celebrate Labour Day 2024, it’s important to acknowledge and appreciate the critical roles that both workers and children play in shaping the future of labour and our society. At My First Skool, we believe in nurturing young minds to understand and value the contributions of every individual.
My First Skool extends warm Labour Day wishes to all workers across every field this 2024. Here’s to those who build, serve, and teach – we thank you for your dedication and commitment.
Join us in celebrating this special day, reflecting on our shared responsibilities, and fostering bright futures for all.
As parents, the anticipation and excitement surrounding your preschooler’s journey into primary school are palpable. The early years of a child’s life lay the groundwork for their future academic success, making it crucial to provide them with a solid foundation.
In this article, we explore eight engaging activities that you can do with your child to enhance their readiness for the challenges and joys of primary school education.
One of the most effective ways to prepare your preschooler for primary school is to foster a love for reading. Reading aloud enhances language skills and introduces children to the world of imagination and knowledge.
Choose age-appropriate books with colourful illustrations to capture their attention. Make reading a daily ritual, allowing your child to associate it with comfort and joy.
Asking questions about the story would also encourage comprehension and critical thinking. This activity lays a strong foundation for language development, a key component in primary school education.
Mathematics is a fundamental skill in primary school, and introducing your child to counting and number recognition early on can significantly boost their confidence. Use everyday situations to make learning fun – count toys, fruits, or steps while walking.
Utilise visual aids such as number charts and educational toys to reinforce numerical concepts. Interactive counting games help develop basic maths skills while making the learning process enjoyable. When your child enters primary school, they will have a solid grasp of foundational maths concepts.
Preparing your child for primary school involves honing their literacy skills, including letter recognition and writing. Start with the alphabet – sing the ABC song, use alphabet blocks, and create letter-themed activities.
Encourage your child to trace and eventually write letters using age-appropriate writing tools. This enhances fine motor skills and sets the stage for successful reading and writing in primary school. Make the learning process engaging with letter-themed games and activities.
Fine motor skills signal primary school readiness, and activities like colouring, cutting, and drawing play a significant role in their development. Provide your child with various art supplies and let their creativity flow. Engage in simple crafts that involve cutting along lines or colouring within boundaries to refine their hand-eye coordination.
Drawing allows them to express themselves visually, fostering creativity and imagination. These skills are invaluable in the primary school setting, where tasks like writing and using scissors become part of the daily routine.
Beyond counting, expose your child to basic maths concepts such as shapes, patterns, and measurements. Use hands-on activities like building blocks to teach geometric shapes or create simple patterns with everyday objects.
Incorporate measurement concepts during daily activities, such as comparing sizes of objects or discussing the passing of time during routines. These experiences build a strong foundation for mathematical understanding, making primary school maths lessons more accessible.
Effective communication is key in primary school, and fostering conversation and storytelling skills early on is essential. Engage your child in discussions about their day, encouraging them to express thoughts and feelings. Storytelling can be a joint activity – take turns creating imaginative stories or ask your child to narrate their tales.
Telling stories enhances language skills and boosts confidence in expressing ideas and opinions, setting the stage for successful communication in the primary school environment.
Adhering to a structured routine is part of primary school, and instilling this habit in the early years can ease the transition. Create a daily timetable with designated times for learning, play, meals, and rest.
Consistency in routine provides a sense of security for your child and helps them understand expectations and transitions. This structure facilitates a smoother transition to the routines of primary school life.
Developing the ability to interact with others is a vital life skill that children learn at an early stage through their interactions with their peers. In the classroom at My First Skool, our children collaborate in small groups during activities, enabling them to build relationships, understand socially acceptable behaviour, and resolve conflicts independently. These skills are crucial as they move on to the next stage of their educational journey in primary school.
As your child approaches primary school age, ensure they have mastered essential skills with this readiness checklist.
Preparing your child for primary school involves activities that nurture foundational skills. Engage in these activities consistently and provide a supportive environment that fosters curiosity and love for learning. With proper preparation, your child will confidently embark on their primary school journey and be ready with the skills needed for success.
Consider enrolling your child in My First Skool, a preschool focusing on holistic development. With a curriculum designed to enhance cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills, My First Skool provides a nurturing environment for your child’s growth. From literacy programs to interactive learning experiences, our preschool equips your child with the necessary skills for a seamless transition to primary school.
Selecting the right nursery school for your child is a serious decision that can significantly impact their early years of development. As parents with young children of nursery age, it’s essential to thoroughly evaluate your options to ensure a positive and nurturing environment.
Here are key factors to consider when choosing a nursery school for your little one.
Start your search by exploring the reputation of the nursery schools you are considering. Engage in conversations with parents who currently have children attending the nursery schools you’re considering. Ask about their experiences, any challenges they’ve faced, and how satisfied they are with the school.
Positive feedback and recommendations from the parents highlight the school’s strengths, while negative feedback might raise red flags. A nursery with a good reputation is more likely to provide a high-quality early education experience.
Examine the nursery school’s curriculum and teaching approach. Ensure that the curriculum aligns with your educational values and goals for your child.
Look for a balanced program with academic, social, and creative activities. A well-structured curriculum lays the foundation for a child’s love for learning and sets the stage for future academic success.
The teaching staff’s qualifications are crucial in creating a positive learning environment. Beyond qualifications, how willing the teachers are to go the extra mile for your child counts, too. Teachers spend a significant amount of time with your child and they’ll notice their unique challenges. They are best placed to make timely interventions.
Inquiring about the teachers’ credentials and observing how teachers interact with children during a visit can provide valuable insights into how your child will be treated.
Look for nursery schools that are accredited by relevant educational bodies. Accreditation certifies that the school conforms to defined benchmarks for excellence and follows the best practices in early childhood education.
In Singapore, SPARK-accredited preschools (Singapore Preschool Accreditation Framework) are regulated by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) to recognise and support them in providing quality early childhood education. This accreditation is significant in ensuring high standards of education and care in preschools across the country.
The safety and cleanliness of the nursery school are paramount. Check the facilities, play areas, and classrooms to ensure they are well-kept and conducive for your child’s stay.
Verify that the school has proper security measures in place, including controlled access points and well-trained staff. A safe and stimulating environment is important for your child’s well-being and development.
Consider the class size in relation to your child’s needs. Smaller classes often allow for more individualised attention and personalised instruction.
A low student-to-teacher ratio can foster better relationships between teachers and students, promoting a supportive learning environment.
Open and transparent communication between the nursery school and parents is vital. Inquire about the school’s communication policies, including how updates on your child’s progress will be shared. Such progress tracking is crucial for:
Look for a school that encourages parental involvement through regular meetings, events, and volunteer opportunities. A collaborative approach between parents and educators enhances the overall learning experience.
You should research and enquire about the nursery school’s educational philosophy and values. Consider whether they align with your beliefs and expectations for your child’s early education.
A shared philosophy ensures that your child receives consistent guidance and support at home and school, fostering a cohesive and positive learning experience.
Explore the availability of extracurricular activities that complement the core curriculum. Activities such as music, art, and physical education contribute to a well-rounded education and can help identify and nurture your child’s unique interests and talents.
A diverse range of extracurricular options enhances the overall educational experience.
Choosing the right nursery school for your child involves carefully considering the above factors. By assessing these elements, you can make a thoughtful decision that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values. Remember that a positive and supportive early education experience sets the stage for your child’s lifelong love of learning.
Consider My First Skool for your child’s preschool development. We are a reputable early childhood education provider that focuses on holistic development. Our SPARK-accredited nursery school provides a safe environment that promotes curiosity, creativity, and social skills in young learners.
Give your child a head start. Learn more about the My First Skool curriculum today!
Education is revered in Singapore, and parents are known for their proactive approach to preparing their children for primary school.
From selecting the best preschool to signing up for enrichment classes, Singaporean parents prioritise early preparation to ensure their child’s smooth transition into primary school. But what exactly drives this fervent dedication to early primary school readiness?
In this article, we discuss why early preparation is essential for primary school readiness and how it is instrumental in primary school success.
Early exposure to academic concepts is key to primary school readiness. It provides children with a solid foundation in literacy, numeracy, science, and critical thinking. By building these foundational skills before entering primary school, children are better prepared to engage with the curriculum and succeed in various subject areas.
Starting academic learning early also helps prevent learning gaps from forming. Children who enter primary school with a strong foundation in academic skills are less likely to struggle with basic concepts and are better equipped to build upon their knowledge as they progress through the curriculum.
Language development is a critical element of primary school readiness. The ability to read is paramount in primary school learning. Children must understand written instructions, comprehend texts, and extract information from various sources.
During the early years, progress in language development equips children with a broader vocabulary, enhances their comprehension skills, and elevates their reading proficiency. This sets the stage for their achievements in subjects emphasising literacy.
Primary school introduces children to a new level of social interaction. Early preparation provides opportunities for your child to engage with peers, teachers, and other adults in a structured setting.
Children learn to share, take turns, and cooperate through social interactions in preschool or playdates, crucial for successful integration into the primary school community.
Developing independence is crucial for primary school readiness as it equips children with the skills and mindset needed to navigate the challenges and responsibilities of school life.
In primary school, children are expected to take responsibility for basic self-care tasks such as dressing, managing belongings, and following personal hygiene routines. Developing independence during the early years prepares children to handle these tasks confidently, promoting self-reliance and reducing reliance on adult assistance.
Primary school involves following teacher instructions, completing tasks independently, and managing time effectively. Children who learn independence will be able to listen attentively, follow directions, and carry out tasks autonomously, setting them up for academic success and good classroom behaviour.
Cognitive skills form the basis for academic achievement and primary school readiness. It lays the foundation for academic learning by shaping children’s ability to understand and interact with the world around them.
Activities that stimulate cognitive development, such as puzzles, games, and hands-on exploration, help children enhance their attention span, memory, and problem-solving, which are necessary for success in primary school.
Furthermore, primary school requires children to focus and concentrate for extended periods, complete tasks, and participate in group activities. Early cognitive development helps children improve their attention span and concentration skills, enabling them to stay engaged and focused in the classroom environment.
Early preparation creates a positive association with learning by making it fun, engaging, and rewarding. Children who approach learning with curiosity and excitement are more likely to be active in classroom discussions and learning activities and take ownership of their education. This motivation promotes a love for learning and drives academic achievement in primary school.
Children may also find primary school learning more challenging. However, those with a positive mindset will view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than being discouraged. This resilience allows them to overcome obstacles, persist in their efforts, and ultimately succeed in mastering new skills and concepts in primary school.
Parents who proactively prepare their children early for primary school do so for good reason. Investing in early preparation equips children with the skills and mindset needed for primary school readiness, instils a lifelong love of learning, and builds resilience in the face of challenges.
Ultimately, the effort and dedication put into early preparation pave the way for a fulfilling educational journey and a bright future for their children.
At My First Skool, we understand the importance of primary school readiness. In our 2023 Parents Satisfaction Survey, 90% of parents are satisfied with our curriculum, which is designed to prepare children to transition to primary school and equip them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive academically and socially.
The first day of preschool is a milestone for children and parents. As parents, it’s natural to feel excitement and worry as you prepare to send your little one to school. Understanding the emotions your child might experience can help you better support them through this crucial transition.
One of the most prevalent emotions children feel on the first day of preschool is excitement. The prospect of new friends, fun activities, and the opportunity to explore a new environment can be exhilarating for young minds.
Many children look forward to the adventure that awaits them, and this excitement can set a positive tone for their overall experience.
Curiosity often accompanies excitement on the first day of preschool. Children are naturally curious, and the new setting provides them with many things to explore. From colourful classrooms to intriguing toys, a world of discovery awaits them.
Encouraging their curiosity helps them adapt and engage with their surroundings more easily.
Despite the positive aspects, it’s common for children to feel a level of anxiety or nervousness on their first day of preschool. The unfamiliar setting, new faces, and separation from parents can trigger a sense of unease.
Parents must acknowledge and address these feelings, providing reassurance and support as their child navigates through this initial apprehension.
Preschool represents a significant step into the unknown for young children. The fear of not knowing what to expect can be daunting.
Parents can ease this fear by discussing what to anticipate, introducing them to preschool, and reinforcing positive aspects of the experience.
Apprehension may arise from various factors, such as concerns about fitting in, following rules, or adjusting to a new routine. Acknowledging your child’s apprehension and addressing any specific concerns can help alleviate their worries.
It’s essential to create an open line of communication to understand their perspective and provide guidance accordingly.
The first day of preschool often marks a child’s initial steps toward independence. While some children eagerly embrace this newfound autonomy, others may feel overwhelmed.
Encouraging independence at home through small tasks and responsibilities can help prepare your child for a more structured environment.
As a parent, you can proactively ease your child’s transition to preschool:
The first day of preschool is a momentous occasion filled with a spectrum of emotions for both children and parents. Understanding and addressing these feelings and proactive preparation can ensure a smooth transition into preschool. With the right support and a positive environment, your child’s first day can be the beginning of a fulfilling preschool education.
Choosing the right preschool is a serious decision for parents. My First Skool understands the significance of early childhood education and is committed to providing a nurturing environment for your child’s growth.
With experienced educators in Singapore, an engaging curriculum, and a focus on holistic development, My First Skool aims to make the first day of preschool a positive and enriching experience for children and parents. Register to learn more about our curriculum.
Parents of preschool-age children in Singapore might be wondering why they can’t find a list of ECDA-accredited preschools on the official Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) website anymore.
This post will help you navigate recent changes and register for a preschool on a new platform. Stay engaged until the end for a quicker registration method that is a more seamless experience.
The preschool search service on the Preschool Search Portal (PSP) was discontinued on January 15, 2024. Parents can now use the Life SG mobile app as a one-stop portal for accessing government services, including preschool searches.
The change of platform might take some getting used to but you don’t have to worry about your previous preschool applications being lost. If you have previously indicated an interest in preschools, you can retrieve your existing records and link them to your new account. Follow these steps to retrieve your records.
Your queue position in the centres you previously indicated interest in remains and will not be impacted.
Here’s how you can register interest in a preschool on Life SG:
Registering directly to My First Skool is a seamless process. Simply visit www.myfirstskool.com/register/ to submit your interest in your preferred preschool centre. It only takes minutes and our friendly enrollment advisors will contact you to guide you through the registration process. You can ask us any questions and we will be happy to answer them.
Registering directly with My First Skool offers several benefits such as:
Seamless experience: Our website provides updated vacancy information based on location and programme level so parents can easily filter and choose centres based on features and preferred locations. Parents are also able to have a preview of the centre environment on our website before deciding to register.
Personalised attention: Our friendly enrolment advisors will be able to guide you through the enrolment process when you directly register at My First Skool’s website. Parents will be able to ask questions, discuss their child’s needs, and receive personalised guidance throughout the enrollment process.
In-depth information: You can learn more about My First Skool’s programmes, curriculum, and facilities when you connect with us directly. This provides you with a better understanding of our teaching approach and curriculum, helping you anticipate what to expect when enrolling your child with us.
We have designed our online registration process to ensure it is user-friendly for parents. Rest assured, we are committed to assisting parents with childcare needs and securing a spot in My First Skool centre.
Children from My First Skool at Kampung Admiralty participated in an intergenerational coding and robotics session along with seniors from the NTUC Health Active Ageing Centre (Care) (Kampung Admiralty) on 6 December.
The elderly guided the children in building robots using blocks and coding the robots to perform tasks.
In an interview with CNA, Kaulder Lee Xu Bin, 6, a child from MFS, expressed his delight in engaging with the seniors during the coding session.
The positive interactions were captured on film, with footage of MFS children being featured on CNA, Channel 8 and BERITA Mediacorp. Intergenerational exchanges like this not only benefit the seniors but also contribute to the holistic development and social growth of the children from My First Skool.
Learn more about our structured Intergenerational (IG) Programme to promote regular interaction between preschoolers and seniors here.
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