School of Thought

Your child's teachers can be your biggest allies when it comes to being a great parent. STELLA THNG picks up these enlightening tips from them.

Extend learning in simple, effective ways

Instead of asking your kids to do stacks of assessment books or attend endless tuition classes, extend their learning in simple ways. At home, they should read, review the day's work and talk with you about what they learnt that day. This will lead to higher retention of knowledge and a better appreciation of what is taught." - Ivy S,. Pri 4 English and science teacher

Give precise instructions

"Never tell a child what not to do; tell him what to do instead. For instance, I've encountered occasions when a teacher says: 'Do not run.' And the kids just stand there, not knowing what to do. Instead, say: "Please walk." They'll naturally stop running and start walking. In the same way, don't tell your kids 'don't waste your time' - give them a timetable to follow instead." - J. Heng, Pri 5 mother-tongue teacher

Find teachable moments

"Long car rides, a trip to the wet market or a walk at a nearby park - your kids can learn something every time you go out. On such outings with my three-year-old son, I introduce place-specific vocabulary, like the names of places, landmarks and related occupations, to him.

Likewise, with my students, I try to share about current affairs and issues whenever possible. These teachable moments encourage a more vibrant discussion point for the English oral examination." - Sharon Chia, Pri 5 English teacher

Invest in chatting with your kids

"No matter how exhausted you are after work, take a few minutes for a short catch-up with your child. During Career Day in school, I was surprised that some of my pupils didn't know their parents' occupations - some are asleep by the time their parents come home.

Parents who talk to their children a lot help their kids become more confident. These parents engage in meaningful conversations with their children, where both parties are given the opportunity to listen and speak up." - Constance Toh, NIE trainee teacher who has taught lower-primary students

To read the rest of this article, get a copy of the January 2015 issue of Simply Her.

Get the January 2015 issue of Simply Her for more interesting stories. Simply Her, published by SPH Magazines, is available at all newsstands now. Stella Thng is a freelance writer with Simply Her magazine by SPH Magazines. Check out more stories at Simply Her online, www.simplyher.com.sg. Also, check out the January 2015 issue for these stories: a) The New Must-have Staples A new year calls for a new wardrobe. Refresh yours with these five classics which will last you all year. BY GRACIA PHANG b) Fake a Good Night’s Rest None of us gets as much sleep as we’d like – or need. And it shows the next day. SIMONE WU suggests these easy ways to counter the effects of inadequate shut-eye on your looks. c) Hale, Hearty and Healthy Whether you’re giving your body a break between the year-end festivities and Chinese New Year, or resolving to eat clean for 2015, these eateries – with their deliciously wholesome, un-rabbity food – should be on your go-to list.