Getting back into school routine

Parents can help children make a smooth transition into the classroom mode in a variety of ways. One and half months of loosely structured activities can make getting back to the routine difficult, but there are things every parent can do to help children of every age get ready for a successful school year.

Set a ScheduleTalk to your child about setting aside a certain amount of time to study each school day. That way it will be an expected part of the routine rather than a discussion or a struggle every time. It is a good idea to have the time earmarked for this, regardless of whether they have homework or not. If there is none for the day, they can spend the time reading for pleasure, doing extra credit or getting ahead on their classes.

Designate Space
Make sure that there is an area that is set up for studying. It helps to have children work in a place where you are available to answer questions and keep an eye out to make sure they stay on track. Using the same area each time can help get children in the habit of studying more easily. Make sure that school books, supplies and backpacks all have a designated area in the house and are put away so that getting ready goes smoothly in the morning.
Minimize Distractions
Cell phones, television and music are just some of the many distractions that can affect the time that is set aside for homework. Discuss the ground rules for study time and include turning off electronics until after work is finished. It can especially help to remind teens before they sit down to work, so that they aren't tempted if the phone should ring. Parents should remember that if the kitchen table is your childs designated work space, they need to help minimize the traffic and noise in that area when its homework time.

Watch the Extra ActivitiesKeep an eye on the extra-curricular activities and sports to make sure that they aren't interfering with schoolwork. If your child seems like they may be falling behind, have a talk with the coach or person in charge and see if some sort of arrangement can be made for them to catch up. It doesn't necessarily have to mean they will have to quit the activity; they may just need to scale back for a bit.

RelaxWith all of the activities and classes, sometimes it can be easy to forget that children need time to rest and relax too. Try to remember to leave a little room for "down time" for everyone. As long as the schedule is pretty consistent, there is always room for a little bit of fun here and there.

Communicate With TeachersAlmost every school has parent-teacher briefings or the equivalent. No matter how old your children are, this is a good time to find out what the homework load and class expectations are. You can then talk with your child and adjust the amount of study time accordingly.

Adapted from : KC parents.com

Lasting friendship

I have been asked many times what is my reward for volunteering with PSG and the first thing that came to mind is really the firm friendship amongst our members. We all come from all walks of life but somehow we are united in the way that we feel so passionately about our children's well-being. That's how it all always starts... we started with the conviction that we want the best for our children and in the process, we started to spread that love over to all the other children in school.

That is the single most wonderful thing about this group. I have never seen so much love and passion. These parents would go that extra mile and really do their best for the common good, totally and unselfishly. It makes us feel good that we are roles models to our children, to show them that we can care for others, show some kindness and consideration to others and also teach them about giving back to the community.

Sometimes we all get too busy with life and think we don't have time for anybody else, the truth is, if we set our minds to it, we can always find time and ways that we can help and contribute our time to the community.

I have learned this from my own personal experience and I know that by volunteering and giving some of my personal time, gives me alot of satisfaction and contentment. More than any shopping trip can. This is true.

Also, I have learned so much from the other parents who have shown so much kindness and compassion for children other than their own. I salute these parents who are willing to give their time for children who needed their help.. be it to teach them, help them make presents for the parents and teachers, counsel, befriended them or just assuring them that they are loved. It does make this world a better place.

We often share our anxieties and concerns about our children and support one another in times of need. I was deeply touched when a parent called me at recess time and told me my child has forgotten to bring his pocket money, she offered to give him some for me. How kind and thoughtful. That is the kind of friendship that we share. If one of us is down, the rest will rally around and help out the best of our ability. It is through such kindness that we flourish and continue to be strong.

We are indeed blessed to have such wonderful friends in this group and we will stay united and focused as we share one common love.. the love for the children.

Yvonne Chin

First day at school

2nd January is the first day of school for the new P1 students, at 2pm sharp they are all assembled at the school hall all ready to for school. Bright eyed and bushy tailed, these newbies were all so excited about going to school. They obediently sat down in rows and repeated greetings after Mrs Wong, the Principal who was personally there to orientate the children into their school life. How lucky they are to have such a dedicated Principal and caring teachers.

Anxious parents stood on the sideways as they watched their little ones soaked in the "real school" experience. It is very heartening to see the littles ones adapt so well and so eager about school. They dutifully sat down reading their story books while waiting for the rest of the children to turn up for school.

Recess time went smoothly as children are paired with a P2 buddy to help them to be more independent. P1 students learned to order their own food, put the cutleries back in place and of course to wash their hands thoroughly before and after meals. When the bell rang, they return to their respective classes in an orderly manner. There was no drama at all!

What an exciting day for all. First day of school and a fresh start to their schooling adventure!