New activity book helps Pri 1 students settle in

SINGAPORE — Some were bawling in the strange new environment, others were more excited to make new friends, leaving their anxious parents’ side without so much as a turn of the head to say goodbye.

Over at Unity Primary School, Primary 1 children and their parents found themselves greeted by life-size mascots and given treats as a welcoming gesture to soothe frazzled nerves.

Yes, it was the first day of school in the new year. And at Ahmad Ibrahim Primary School, it was receiving its new group of about 150 students — with some 200 parents in tow, mostly mothers, but also couples.

The teachers there tried their best to engage the students and get them settled in. Some were more successful than others, especially with those who were responsive and comfortable being away from their parents. 

Older students were also there lending support, assigned as buddies for the mostly seven-year-old newcomers.

Then there was another silent helper: A new Parent-Child Activity Book designed to guide parents on how to adapt their children to the new school environment and routines.

The book, filled with bold colours and fun graphics, was introduced by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and given to parents with Primary 1 children starting school this year.

Before the school term opened, 39-year-old Agnes Lim, who received the book in December, had started using it with her son, her second child. 

She found the book useful, adding that she was able to spend some time bonding with her boy: “There are a few topics that allow us to talk to our children, prepare them. For example, what to pack in their bag, what time they need to sleep, and things like that.”

Another mother, Mrs Bama Raman Kutty, said she liked how the activity book encouraged children to share their interests with their parents.

“In this book, they write: What are the things you are supposed to take along on your first day, what is your favourite food. I find that very interesting. There are also many activities about their own personal interests and hobbies.”

She added: “Once they come out of kindergarten and nursery, they’re still quite pampered. But after they learn how to use the book, they get to explore (the school). Before they even buy their food, they know this is the stall that has certain food, so when they go there, they are not lost.”

Mr Ng Chee Meng, Acting Minister for Education (Schools), was present at the school during the roll-out of the book today (Jan 4), and he encouraged parents to be more involved in their children’s education. 

When asked about the direction he had in mind for education in the year, he said: “In education, the environment in which we foster for our own kids to have some free space to learn will be important for innovation. In good time, MOE will be looking at how to foster this environment … not just for acquisition of knowledge, but also in inculcating values.”