(These are two separate stories, the first is about a family with 5 kids, the second is with 7 children.)
It seems that the biggest worry for most families (be it big or small) is still their children’s education.
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Her husband’s absence or his relationship with their children, however, is not her biggest concern. “My greatest worry is Bryan. His PSLE,” she declared.
Her Primary 6 son seems to be more interested in playing – or fighting – with his siblings than in his coming examinations.
Said his mother: “He doesn’t really bother about his studies, but I can’t push him … because the more you push him, the more he doesn’t want (to listen).”
Growing up dyslexic and recently diagnosed with hearing difficulties, Bryan has been struggling in school. And in a family of seven, it has been hard to devote attention and resources to just one child.
“We did try giving them tuition. It did help, but it’s quite costly, so we cut down,” Mrs Lim said. “Nick and I are still … working out with teachers – taking (their) advice – how to handle him.
“But he’s a very stubborn boy, and he keeps everything to himself, so it’s kind of hard to get him to open up.”
His parents only want him to pass his subjects, but in his recent report card, he passed only his English out of three subjects.
“I did try, but … I always end up with only a few more marks (needed) to pass,” said the 12-year-old, who had to then promise his parents that he would do better or else they would take away his phone.
Minister for Education Heng Swee Keat has said parents should consider other factors apart from a school’s previous year cut-off point (COP) when helping their P6 children decide on which secondary school to choose.
Minister for Education Heng Swee Keat (Photo: MOE)
SINGAPORE: Minister for Education Heng Swee Keat has said parents should consider other factors apart from a school’s previous year cut-off point (COP) when helping their P6 children decide on which secondary school to choose.
Writing on his Facebook page, Mr Heng said it would be good for parents to have an open talk with their children to know what type of secondary school they are interested in.
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Mr Heng, however, noted that how well a child does in school depends on how motivated he is.
So he encourages parents to carefully consider the kind of environment that will best motivate their children, and enable them to develop themselves fully in the next four to five years.
Some children, he said, are late developers and the right environment helps them thrive.
Mr Heng urged parents to think of how best they can help their children develop confidence and enjoy the space to discover his talents and passions.