I can walk!

It has taken 14 months and I can safely say that I have gotten past the crawling stage with confidence. It was wobbly last Friday but a week has since passed and I am far more steady with my steps. I sometimes refuse assistance just to show off I can do it all by myself haha.. Pictures when Daddy is free to take photos and upload them, stay tuned :)

Jiejie at Mindchamps

Jiejie went to school to be a model for a day and I tagged along for a free preview of my school. I loved the toys and the gym and I fully expect to have a great time in school when I reach 2 years old :)

I also joined in for the phototaking, most of the photos are of my Jiejie and are found in her own blog but here are some anyway.

Happy Mother's Day!

If I could speak, I would tell mama that I love her!

I would also tell you how happy I was just thinking of going out haha


Can you see me?

Peek-a-boo! Haha

Yummy Drumstick

Today is apparently my lunar calendar birthday and I get to munch on a drumstick to celebrate, think it is supposed to be my first official solid food..

Happy Birthday Auntie Jean!

This round, I am still too young to eat the yummy looking birthday cake but I am sure that for the rest of the coming birthday parties, I will get my chance.. by the way, the next birthday is Mine! Yippee!

My new haircut

Just had a haircut at the barbers yesterday. I was crying the whole time but today, I'm feeling much better and looks much better as well. Auntie Liyi and Auntie Biru says my hairstyle reminds them of Bosco Wong. I think I look cuter haha!




Bosco Wong

Happy Birthday Lincoln and Kyler!

Two birthday boys with two cakes and a whole lot of fun in one big party! Next time, I would want to have lots fo cars and balloons for my party haha

Are Preschools just Play Schools?

The worth of a preschool education is often undervalued. This is understandable, given that as parents, most of us will not be privy to research that would tell us otherwise.

Early childhood is seen as a time for play and learning basic skills such as walking, talking and interacting with other children. And generally, this is what many parents perceive a preschool is supposed to deliver.

However, if you were to take into perspective a child's learning journey, let's say up to university, the most critical learning years is actually in their first three years of childhood.

Research has consistently shown that the first three years of life are critical to the emotional and intellectual development of a child. During these early years, 75 per cent of brain growth is completed.

While we all acknowledge the importance of caring and nurturing children, many are unaware of the extent to which this can affect future development in the ability to think, speak, learn, and establish relationships. In fact, success in school and the workplace can be attributed to the experiences we gain in the first three years of our lives.

Parents who are aware of this research-based fact are always eager to enroll their child in a preschool that can give their child a head start in life.

But how do you begin to determine which preschool is right for your child? This obviously requires a fair bit of ground work. The good news is that parents in Singapore have a lot of choice when it comes to quality preschools.

Here are some tips on helping in your decision-making process.

1. Do your research

Taking the time to do research will help you make a better informed decision. Talk to other parents for their feedback, but do also speak to the preschool's staff members who should be happy to address your questions. Preschools usually have an open door policy, so it's advisable to visit the preschool for a first-hand experience of how it is run.

2. Holistic development

A curriculum of a high standard should firstly be grounded in sound research and be revised frequently to meet the changing needs of the child. It should be balanced and foster not only cognitive skills but the holistic development of a child.

Children should be exposed to more than academic subjects such as math, science and language lessons. Art, for example, can enhance their sense of aesthetics and creativity, while learning about the environment can develop their love for nature and sense of social responsibility.

A mix of independent learning and project-based activities can help children develop critical thinking skills alongside social and emotional skills.

As a parent myself, I believe that it is important to select a preschool that aligns with your own values and parenting style. At the same time it should suit your child's personality and individual needs.

In my many years at Learning Vision, I have witnessed tangible benefits from a holistic and rigorous curriculum. Past students have grown into dynamic and confident individuals, well-equipped for higher education. The teaching programme was planned around their interests and hands-on learning - developing their critical thinking and a healthy disposition towards learning.

3. The quality of teachers

The Ministry of Education's guidelines require all teachers to have minimum academic qualifications and at least a Certificate in Pre-school Teaching (CPT). Some preschools require their teachers to have degrees or diplomas in early childhood education.

As important as qualifications are, it is essential that teachers also have passion and dedication to care for young children and develop their full potential. Teachers are most effective when they build strong relationships based on mutual trust and respect with their young students. This gives the children the confidence to express their opinions or share their problems. As parents, looking out for these intrinsic attributes of the educators can prove to be rewarding.

As an educator, I place passion, patience and resilience as key to nurturing children of different personalities and talents.

4. Can parents be involved?

They must be involved. Parental involvement is essential to the development of children, and preschools should foster strong partnerships with them. Find out how frequently teachers update parents on their children's progress and the type of parent activities or support groups that are available.

5. The environment, meal plans and other considerations

Safety and hygiene are primary factors that all preschools should have. This addresses the risk of having accidents and infections.

Parents should also consider how preschools design the environment and use resources when they visit one. Learning spaces that are well-designed and maximised will encourage and foster creativity in children. Children should have learning resources such as toys and craft which stimulate curiosity and discovery.

Make sure that the meal plans are healthy and nutritious. While there are guidelines in place for this, a preschool that factors in healthy eating choices as part of the curriculum can foster positive life-long habits in the child.

The preschool years should be an enjoyable experience for your child. Get your priorities right and choose a preschool that enhances your child's unique abilities while cultivating a life-long love of learning.

Article by Rabiatul Adawiah. Rabiatul Adawiah is the Managing Director of Learning Vision, an established early childhood education provider. She has over 15 years of experience in the industry and has been instrumental in developing high professional standards within the organisation. She has a background in Early Childhood Education, Economics and Marketing.

JieJie seems to be having lots of fun at Mindchamps JTC so in time, I guess I'll be joining her there as well!

25 reasons to read more books

This article is for people of all ages to start picking up a book but Daddy and Mummy both believes in starting young. Haven't been to a library in a while, hopefully when the new library opens at the Clementi Mall, we can go pick up some nice reads!



1. Reading is an active mental process
Unlike TV, books make you to use your brain. By reading, you think more and become smarter.

2. It is a fundamental skill builder
Everyone needs books to help explain stuff. They help clarify difficult subjects and provide information that goes beyond classroom discussion.

3. Improves your vocabulary
We all know reading expands your vocabulary of words, just like how teachers in primary school told you to read more to improve your English.

4. Gives you a glimpse into other cultures and places
Reading about a place is the next best thing to going there yourself. No money to travel? Then borrow a book.



5. Improves concentration and focus
Reading can be exercise for the brain. It also allows you to take your mind off other things for just a moment.

6. Builds self-esteem
Becoming an expert in a topic you've been reading up about makes you feel good, especially when this makes others sit up and take notice when you speak.

7. Improves memory
Reading, although not a game, helps you stretch your memory muscles in a similar way, requiring you to remember details, facts and figures and in literature, plot lines, themes and characters.

8. The book is usually better than the movie
More often than not, a book provides more colour and detail than a two and half-hour visual feast can.

9. Learn anywhere
Books are portable. You can take them almost anywhere. As such, you can learn almost anywhere too.

10. Improves creativity
Reading books exposes yourself to new and more complete information, you will also be able to come up with more creative ideas.

11. Gives you something to talk about
Have you ever run out of stuff to talk about with your best friend, wife or husband? This can be uncomfortable. Reading gives you topics to discuss, plots to share, etc. The possibilities are endless.

12. Books are inexpensive entertainment
Visit your neighbourhood libraries to get hours of entertainment, for free. Compared to the price of a movie ticket these days, it's a steal.



13. You can learn at your own pace
There are no teachers hanging over your head, no classes to rush to. You can read and learn on the bus, train, basically anywhere.

14. New mental associations
Reading expands your depth and breadth of knowledge and your ability to form new associations you never knew existed.

15. Improves your reasoning skills
Books for professionals contain arguments for or against the actions. Seeing both sides of the argument will improve your ability to dissect an issue and form an unbiased opinion.

16. Builds your expertise
Canadian self-help author Brian Tracy has said one way to become an expert in your chosen field is to read 100 books on the subject. He also said by continuing the same for 5 years you’ll become an international expert. With the Internet and blogs, you could hone that time down to 2-3 years if you follow through.

17. Saves money
Apart from saving money on entertainment, reading allows you to learn from others' sometimes painful (and expensive) mistakes. As the saying goes, hindsight is always 60/60.

18. Decreases mistakes
See point 17. With the wisdom that books can provide, you are less likely to make mistakes.

19. You'll discover surprises
Books can surprise you with information you never knew. It's nice when something can make you open your eyes in wonder, and fill you with excitement that you can't wait to share that knowledge with someone else.



20. Decreased boredom
Nothing to do on the train? Read. Waiting for a bus? Read. Twiddling your thumbs while waiting for your date? Ditto. Enough said.

21. Can change your life
Information learnt from books can be useful, some pleasantly surprising. Some information can be so impactful that they may change how you view the world, forever. It's no wonder so many people hold their favourite books dear to their heart.

22. Can help break a slump
If you're a writer, it's called writer's block. Books can be a brilliant source of inspiration to lift you out of that slump! Just as long as you pick the right book.

23. Reduces stress
Many avid readers unwind by reading. If all it does for you is put you to sleep at the end of a stressful day, well, that works too.



24. Gets you away from digital distractions
Books are good form of 'traditional' entertainment. Sometimes, nothing beats getting away from the computer or your mobile, and curling up in bed with a good book in hand.

25. You can make more money
Reading can increase your expertise in an area, and lead to better pay and opportunities. As they say, knowledge is power.

Sentosa Flowers 2011

Had a family outing at Sentosa, to see the beautiful flowers at the Sentosa Flowers. It was so hot and humid that we didnt stay too long, but it was still quite fun and very beautiful while we were there. Daddy and Mummy had a mental note to buy hats for Natalie and myself for future outings...

Making new friends over CNY

Uncle Dean is Daddy's good friend but this is the first time I've actually seen him and Ayden and I am so excited to be part of the action.

Happy Lunar New Year!

Gongxi gongxi Gong Gong and Po Po!

This is my first new year and I am so excited to be all dressed up and going around visting new places and making new friends.











We went to Auntie Biru place and I could share Gabby's toys, woohoo! So exciting

Reunion at Faber

Lincoln, Kyler and Xinyi came over for a reunion dinner of Buddha-Jumps-Over-The-Wall lovingly prepared by Grandma and after dinner, they had an impromptu concert of our own. It was so fun!








Gongxi Gongxi!






Itsy Bitsy Spider..




Is that a magic trick?

Po Po Birthday

Weekends with Po Po are always a happy thing for me and this weekend, we are even happier because we are celebrating her birthday! Look at Jie Jie and me being so excited sitting at the back of Mummy's car.

Happy Birthday Claire!

So much yummy food and lots of toys, too bad I can only drink my milk and sleep.. its ok, more parties to look forward to!

Pay more for pre-schools to get more?

Experts say elite schools offer marginal benefits over mainstream ones that have all the basics covered.

SHE could have easily afforded to send her daughter to a well-known pre-school costing $800 a month.

But senior corporate communications manager Karyn Low picked a pre-school in the heartland instead.

The fee: Just close to $300 a month after subsidy.

The 41-year-old enrolled her four-year-old daughter at My First Skool at the Bukit Batok Community Centre, a 10-minute walk from her flat.

Ms Low also has a 14-year-old son and a 22-month-old daughter.

"Paying less for a pre-school education doesn't mean its quality of education is any poorer than one that charges exorbitant fees," Ms Low said. "I've met the teachers and I find that they treat the students with a lot of love, care and concern. I am happy with the progress that my daughter is making."

She feels that sending a child to an elite pre-school doesn't mean that parents can wash their hands off their children's early learning.

"As parents, we have to play our part in educating our children. Not just reading and writing, but also about values and ethics," she said.

Not all mothers are as practical-minded as Ms Low. Earlier this week, parents queued overnight outside Nanyang Kindergarten, just to get their children on the waiting list for the 2013 intake.

It appears that they are willing to shell out $20,000 a year - the cost of a university education - on their children's pre-school learning.

Madam Tay Tse Ting, 35, enrolled her daughters, aged four and five, at the Montessori for Children. Her two-year-old son is in day care.

The homemaker pays about $5,000 per four-month term for each child for the extended programme, which runs from 8.15am to 3.30pm on weekdays.

She said that she likes the Montessori curriculum because "it allows our kids to grow and develop as an individual at their own pace".

But child development and early childhood experts here and abroad warn that parents who splurge on pre-school education for their kids may be wasting their money.

While pre-school is important to a child's development, high-end schools offer marginal benefits over mainstream ones that have all the basics covered.

A leading US expert, Dr Steve Barnett, told The New Paper in an e-mail interview: "Pre-schools vary dramatically in their goals and in their effectiveness... More spending is not a guarantee of more quality."

Instead, the co-director of the National Institute For Early Education Research (NIEER) said parents must assess for the best experience for their children.

"Reasonably effective pre-school programmes should be available along a fairly wide price range, with the differences being roughly comparable to the differences among cars.

Small differences

"Once you are buying a reasonably good car, the differences in performance from spending additional money maybe relatively small," he said.

Dr Barnett stressed that parents play a much bigger role on the child's development than the pre-school.

"But if the parents are already doing everything they can, then pre-school is the next most important investment," he said.

Other experts believe that reputation makes a difference - but up to a point.

In an e-mail reply, Dr Lawrence Schweinhart, president of the High/Scope Educational Research Foundation based in the US, said: "Higher-priced programmes can be of higher quality because they have more money to spend on quality.

"But it is also possible for programme providers to charge more without spending the additional dollars on characteristics of quality."

Singapore psychologist Mona Seet of Mind Matters Psychology Practice believes that there are benefits in attending a reputable pre-school.

But she cautioned that parents should not choose a pre-school based solely on reputation.

"A reputable pre-school that cannot match the child's needs may cause more harm than benefit," Ms Seet said.

Nevertheless, pre-school is crucial to the development of a child, the experts said.

Dr Barnett said: "Pre-school impacts cognitive and socio-emotional development.

"A strong pre-school programme can set a child on a self-reinforcing path of academic and social success. This pays off as an adult in higher earnings and a more successful personal life and better health."

Ms Seet said a child's learning at pre-school age "builds the foundation and equips the child with the necessary skills for more advanced learning in the schooling years".

She added: "The child may not consciously remember what has been taught, but the skills and concepts taught to them at this stage shapes their development and prepares them for more challenges later in life."

The experts also agree that quality of teachers and curriculum are the top considerations when choosing a pre-school. Other things include the teacher-student ratio, school environment and parent-teacher communication.

This article was first published in The New Paper

Ok, coming from Daddy and Mummy who sends JieJie to MindChamps, this article may sound a little out of place, but Daddy believes that sending kids to pre-school is almost a given fact for parents now, since most Singaporeans can no longer afford the luxury of a single working parent with a full time mummy looking after plus educating the kids. So for those making a choice now and it is still not too late, Daddy says 'save your money and go spend it on something else more meaningful'