Communicating to Ethyl always opens up a different perspective of things that are happening around us. Her upcoming concert performance is something we are all looking forward to.
“Mommy, I am very scared”, she told me one day. Asked her why, and she said she is unable to bow nicely to the teachers’ requirement. I taught her how to do it properly and in a minute, she regained her confidence.
“Mommy, teacher said I look very sweet in the pig’s ears”. She will be playing one of the 3 little pigs. She will be the third pig that builds its house with bricks.
“Mom, I am no longer afraid to perform on stage. If I am afraid, I will look at you and I will be able to continue my performance ok? I will be brave and I will do well. You have to support me ok?” She was all confident when she told me these yesterday.
She has been practicing herself at home. I do see her enjoying her skit and really hope to see her do well on stage. Whenever she felt tensed thinking of the actual day, I will reassure her that things will go well and she shall not fret as we will all be supporting her. This assurance from us really boosted her confidence.
Will try and take a video on the day itself…they actually BAN us from bringing cameras and viewcams. Shall see how things go.
October 29, 2009
October 28, 2009
On School and Siblings
Several things happened lately. Mom is planning to work part time, i.e. on weekends when she need not look after the kiddos. Well, we very much wanted her to rest, but she insisted that she is too bored and rather go out and work. We had no choice, let her be.
Next, my plan for Ethyl to go to a new school is brought forward. Unexpectedly, I received a SMS from the bus driver that he will stop sending the kids to her current school from December. I had a quick discussion with Hubby and started to make calls to both the current school and the new school that Ethyl’s going to be enrolled into. Made some arrangements on paperwork, and things were all settled in morning.
Further to settling the main issues, I discussed with Hubby on Brayden’s schooling plans next year. I wanted to let him start at the same time with Ethyl; however, both Hubby and Mom were against it and felt he should start in March. After much thought, I decided that I shall oblige and he shall start in March whilst Ethyl shall start in January.
I told Ethyl the decision on withdrawal and the new plans for them next year. She was pleased and said she can’t wait to be able to go to school together with her brother.
She has three months to adapt to the environment before Brayden joins, and she will then be the peer of her brother and help him blend into the school environment.
Aside from this, she told me last night that whenever she misses Brayden, she would look at her communication book. I asked her, why look at her comm book, and she replied, “Because you wrote Brayden’s name inside, so I will look at his name whenever I miss him”. This little girl’s eyes turn red and teary…oh, I see the love she has for the brother!
Next, my plan for Ethyl to go to a new school is brought forward. Unexpectedly, I received a SMS from the bus driver that he will stop sending the kids to her current school from December. I had a quick discussion with Hubby and started to make calls to both the current school and the new school that Ethyl’s going to be enrolled into. Made some arrangements on paperwork, and things were all settled in morning.
Further to settling the main issues, I discussed with Hubby on Brayden’s schooling plans next year. I wanted to let him start at the same time with Ethyl; however, both Hubby and Mom were against it and felt he should start in March. After much thought, I decided that I shall oblige and he shall start in March whilst Ethyl shall start in January.
I told Ethyl the decision on withdrawal and the new plans for them next year. She was pleased and said she can’t wait to be able to go to school together with her brother.
She has three months to adapt to the environment before Brayden joins, and she will then be the peer of her brother and help him blend into the school environment.
Aside from this, she told me last night that whenever she misses Brayden, she would look at her communication book. I asked her, why look at her comm book, and she replied, “Because you wrote Brayden’s name inside, so I will look at his name whenever I miss him”. This little girl’s eyes turn red and teary…oh, I see the love she has for the brother!
October 26, 2009
About the Kids
Being with the kids these days really brings much joy to us. Hubby and I spend really quality time with both our 宝贝 (Ethylyn) and 臭臭 (Brayden). Seeing them running around the house, dancing to the songs and music, laughing and mimicking the cartoon characters are really pure bliss!
Brayden seems like a late bloomer. He can’t really speak at this age. He does blabber a lot, but nothing really proper comes out from his mouth. I am not worried. I believe he will speak some day. Once in a while he will say “EEE” this refers to (eyore), he will say “too-doe” (oh-too-doe when mickey mouse needs tools), he will shout “hurray” when we sing “If you are happy”.
He likes music and movements a lot, just like Ethyl. The siblings have been our entertainer. They will be singing and dancing a lot and especially our clumsy ball, he looks clumsy when he dances. We were really amused.
Ethyl was tasked to read books for Brayden once a week. My intention is to nurture her patience in handling her little brother and learning to take on some responsibilities. Probably I have indulged her too much previously. There were a few occasions when I see her school bag lying around and her worn clothes were still sitting in her bag, I would pick up the bag and took out the clothes, gently remind her to do it by herself the next day. This happened several times and my words simply didn’t register in her head.
Once, I flared up and threw her bag on the floor, took her clothes and wanted to throw in the bin. Since she doesn’t treasure and was not diligent in taking responsibility of her own belongings, why should I bother? From that day onwards, she would clear her dirty clothes and put her bag in place whenever she comes back from school.
Not too long ago, I told her she has to prove that she is capable of looking after Brayden is she wants her little brother to go to the same school as her. Since then, she has really proven she herself to be a good elder sister who really knows how to take care of her brother. SIL commented that Ethyl is capable of watching out of her brother and taking good care of him when I deposited them at MIL’s place on one occasion, when both Hubby and I needs to attend a wake. She has done me proud.
Initially I was still fiddling with the idea of having one more addition, Hubby is pretty reluctant though. Looking at me adorable pair, I think with or without an additional one, I will not regret having just the both of them.
Brayden seems like a late bloomer. He can’t really speak at this age. He does blabber a lot, but nothing really proper comes out from his mouth. I am not worried. I believe he will speak some day. Once in a while he will say “EEE” this refers to (eyore), he will say “too-doe” (oh-too-doe when mickey mouse needs tools), he will shout “hurray” when we sing “If you are happy”.
He likes music and movements a lot, just like Ethyl. The siblings have been our entertainer. They will be singing and dancing a lot and especially our clumsy ball, he looks clumsy when he dances. We were really amused.
Ethyl was tasked to read books for Brayden once a week. My intention is to nurture her patience in handling her little brother and learning to take on some responsibilities. Probably I have indulged her too much previously. There were a few occasions when I see her school bag lying around and her worn clothes were still sitting in her bag, I would pick up the bag and took out the clothes, gently remind her to do it by herself the next day. This happened several times and my words simply didn’t register in her head.
Once, I flared up and threw her bag on the floor, took her clothes and wanted to throw in the bin. Since she doesn’t treasure and was not diligent in taking responsibility of her own belongings, why should I bother? From that day onwards, she would clear her dirty clothes and put her bag in place whenever she comes back from school.
Not too long ago, I told her she has to prove that she is capable of looking after Brayden is she wants her little brother to go to the same school as her. Since then, she has really proven she herself to be a good elder sister who really knows how to take care of her brother. SIL commented that Ethyl is capable of watching out of her brother and taking good care of him when I deposited them at MIL’s place on one occasion, when both Hubby and I needs to attend a wake. She has done me proud.
Initially I was still fiddling with the idea of having one more addition, Hubby is pretty reluctant though. Looking at me adorable pair, I think with or without an additional one, I will not regret having just the both of them.
October 21, 2009
Family Photo
We celebrated Mom's birthday last Saturday! This is our latest family picture. I love to see how Mom and Dad kept themselves busy with food and the grandbabies. A loving sight.
Happy 53rd Birthday Mommy!
October 14, 2009
Our Adventure Book
Shy to say, my lazy butt has been on my comfort lounge for too long. It is finally time that I start doing my job as a Mom, a teacher and learning partner for her.
I have dedicated my evenings for her. A maximum of an hour on getting the materials online, preparing the teaching materials a week in advance, and next she will get to start to surf online for information twice a week, and each session will last for 20 minutes.
We went to Popular to get the materials and books few days back, I started letting her keep a diary, an attempt to start her on writing proper sentences and creative writing.
I got her a jotter book with an empty cover to let her creative juices flow.
We worked together on the theme this week - herbivore. This particular assignment is actually in line with the theme in school.
This is the simple assignment. I am planning for a trip to the library this weekend and borrow some books related to this theme and we will do a small project for her to submit to school when the assignment is due.
Next assignment is carnivore, followed by omnivore. Currently I am cracking my brain for her chinese homework as well. I hope we can help create a funlearning environment at home.
I have dedicated my evenings for her. A maximum of an hour on getting the materials online, preparing the teaching materials a week in advance, and next she will get to start to surf online for information twice a week, and each session will last for 20 minutes.
We went to Popular to get the materials and books few days back, I started letting her keep a diary, an attempt to start her on writing proper sentences and creative writing.
I got her a jotter book with an empty cover to let her creative juices flow.
We worked together on the theme this week - herbivore. This particular assignment is actually in line with the theme in school.
This is the simple assignment. I am planning for a trip to the library this weekend and borrow some books related to this theme and we will do a small project for her to submit to school when the assignment is due.
Next assignment is carnivore, followed by omnivore. Currently I am cracking my brain for her chinese homework as well. I hope we can help create a funlearning environment at home.
October 13, 2009
Measly Bit of Updates
This was taken with my iPhone when we were having breakfast at Sentosa...See the cheerful little babe!
Our cheeky little boy...He enjoys his breakfast too!
I brought little boy to meet Hubby at Tampines for Ethyl's PTM.
Brayden had a bus ride again! Just him and me!
See how curious he was!
October 10, 2009
Pats on our backs
I always enjoy the parents-teachers meeting (PTM) whenever the school has it. This will be an indicative meeting to let me know how Ethyl has been adapting and performing in school be it intellectual or social skills.
Hubby and I took leave last Thursday to the school and attended Ethyl’s PTM session in her new school. She joined for 3 months; I prepared myself that the teachers may not have too much to share as she could have spent more time adapting and making friends.
We were welcomed by the friendly school administrator and the Principal. Sat down with Teacher S and she showed us some artwork that Ethyl has done, some photos of the experiments she does, last but not least, the reviews/feedback by the teachers.
Teacher S mentioned she is a very enthusiastic learner; she displays leadership qualities, has the initiative and pro-active in activities, loves to share and is able to follow instructions well. She understands what is being taught and expected of her and got along really well with peers.
Her English communication ability is good as well. She can converse really well and read story books/role play with emotions. Teachers all find her performance very entertaining. She loves music and movements, enjoys experimenting, outdoor activities, basically everything!
Teacher F, her Chinese teacher has really good feedback. She is the top student in her mandarin class. She excels far better than her peers, is able to learn and grasp meanings of words really swift. New songs that were taught to her, she can remember the rhythm and lyrics almost in one session. She is very impressed and asked if she is attending any Chinese enrichment class. Teacher F was shocked when I replied “No”.
Her Chinese ability supersedes her peers at the moment. She is able to converse in mandarin to the Chinese teachers without mixing English. She loves to share with teachers and friends what she has done over weekends, what is on her mind etc. One thing to note from the Chinese teacher, Ethyl finds her Chinese bored at times as she already know many words and able to read the Chinese readers that was given out. Thus there will be times whereby she requests teacher F to let her rest as she already knew what was taught. Teacher F agreed to let her rest and read or learn on her own while the peers gets the work done. Compared to her peers, she enjoys general knowledge learning rather than just reading stories from books.
Now, my worry comes in. This review is far more positive than what I expected. I know we have been reading Chinese newspapers with her; Hubby and I took turns to guide her through math, English and some general knowledge exercises. When the teachers both pointed out that Ethyl is excelling in most aspects, shall I change a ore academic environment for her?
Before the PTM, she has been telling me she wanted to change school as she has been waking up too early in the morning, and complained about the lack of school holidays. Mom also thought having school holidays for her is good as she gets a break and can enjoy more self learning activities or holiday camp programs.
Just so happened that I spoke to Ericia, and she shared with me the new school her little boy is joining. I have seen them at a road show once when we went to E!hub, and decided to give the Principal a call.
Hubby and I were impressed with the curriculum and Ethyl gets to have a feel of the K2 materials. I never like the idea of focusing too much on academic at kindy stage. This time, I succumbed. I decided that both Ethyl and Brayden shall be enrolled to this new school next year. Firstly because of the curriculum, secondly, closer to our vicinity, thirdly, they need not take school bus, but 3 stops bus ride away and Mom said she will send and fetch them to save me 600 bucks on bus fares.
I convinced both Hubby and myself that we will let Ethyl try, at least a more academic focused K2 session can prepare her for her P1 better. Having said that, I will revise our timetable based on her needs. If she felt she still wants to do her assessments after school, by all means, else we will trim down the number of exercises she needs to focus on a weekly basis.
Kids are the ones schooling and why am I so stressed up?! Nevertheless, we are proud of Ethyl and she has done a good job!
Hubby and I took leave last Thursday to the school and attended Ethyl’s PTM session in her new school. She joined for 3 months; I prepared myself that the teachers may not have too much to share as she could have spent more time adapting and making friends.
We were welcomed by the friendly school administrator and the Principal. Sat down with Teacher S and she showed us some artwork that Ethyl has done, some photos of the experiments she does, last but not least, the reviews/feedback by the teachers.
Teacher S mentioned she is a very enthusiastic learner; she displays leadership qualities, has the initiative and pro-active in activities, loves to share and is able to follow instructions well. She understands what is being taught and expected of her and got along really well with peers.
Her English communication ability is good as well. She can converse really well and read story books/role play with emotions. Teachers all find her performance very entertaining. She loves music and movements, enjoys experimenting, outdoor activities, basically everything!
Teacher F, her Chinese teacher has really good feedback. She is the top student in her mandarin class. She excels far better than her peers, is able to learn and grasp meanings of words really swift. New songs that were taught to her, she can remember the rhythm and lyrics almost in one session. She is very impressed and asked if she is attending any Chinese enrichment class. Teacher F was shocked when I replied “No”.
Her Chinese ability supersedes her peers at the moment. She is able to converse in mandarin to the Chinese teachers without mixing English. She loves to share with teachers and friends what she has done over weekends, what is on her mind etc. One thing to note from the Chinese teacher, Ethyl finds her Chinese bored at times as she already know many words and able to read the Chinese readers that was given out. Thus there will be times whereby she requests teacher F to let her rest as she already knew what was taught. Teacher F agreed to let her rest and read or learn on her own while the peers gets the work done. Compared to her peers, she enjoys general knowledge learning rather than just reading stories from books.
Now, my worry comes in. This review is far more positive than what I expected. I know we have been reading Chinese newspapers with her; Hubby and I took turns to guide her through math, English and some general knowledge exercises. When the teachers both pointed out that Ethyl is excelling in most aspects, shall I change a ore academic environment for her?
Before the PTM, she has been telling me she wanted to change school as she has been waking up too early in the morning, and complained about the lack of school holidays. Mom also thought having school holidays for her is good as she gets a break and can enjoy more self learning activities or holiday camp programs.
Just so happened that I spoke to Ericia, and she shared with me the new school her little boy is joining. I have seen them at a road show once when we went to E!hub, and decided to give the Principal a call.
Hubby and I were impressed with the curriculum and Ethyl gets to have a feel of the K2 materials. I never like the idea of focusing too much on academic at kindy stage. This time, I succumbed. I decided that both Ethyl and Brayden shall be enrolled to this new school next year. Firstly because of the curriculum, secondly, closer to our vicinity, thirdly, they need not take school bus, but 3 stops bus ride away and Mom said she will send and fetch them to save me 600 bucks on bus fares.
I convinced both Hubby and myself that we will let Ethyl try, at least a more academic focused K2 session can prepare her for her P1 better. Having said that, I will revise our timetable based on her needs. If she felt she still wants to do her assessments after school, by all means, else we will trim down the number of exercises she needs to focus on a weekly basis.
Kids are the ones schooling and why am I so stressed up?! Nevertheless, we are proud of Ethyl and she has done a good job!
October 5, 2009
Updates
Family Time
This has greatly compromised over the few weeks while planning for the joint venture (more will be divulged later), children were neglected, I saw the changes in the way Ethyl treats learning and decided that I should fine-tune our schedule a little bit.
I need to do up a new timetable. The old one was good, but not good enough and Ethyl is not really following the activities as planned.
Brayden needs to learn too! Hubby shall be part of the timetable and we take turns to coach the kids. I believe this will be more effective.
Joint venture
This was halted after I saw how the kids were neglected due to my new engagement. I left my business partner to go ahead with the business while I pulled out. Too time consuming for now especially when work is catching up a great deal. We need to participate in fairs, fly over to select the stuff and all…basically my weekends will be burnt.
It is a real pity…having said that, Hubby and I decided to do something on our own free time. We are still at the initial planning stage (it was discussed just last night), hopefully I can come up with something really soon to catch the festive like Christmas and all.
This has greatly compromised over the few weeks while planning for the joint venture (more will be divulged later), children were neglected, I saw the changes in the way Ethyl treats learning and decided that I should fine-tune our schedule a little bit.
I need to do up a new timetable. The old one was good, but not good enough and Ethyl is not really following the activities as planned.
Brayden needs to learn too! Hubby shall be part of the timetable and we take turns to coach the kids. I believe this will be more effective.
Joint venture
This was halted after I saw how the kids were neglected due to my new engagement. I left my business partner to go ahead with the business while I pulled out. Too time consuming for now especially when work is catching up a great deal. We need to participate in fairs, fly over to select the stuff and all…basically my weekends will be burnt.
It is a real pity…having said that, Hubby and I decided to do something on our own free time. We are still at the initial planning stage (it was discussed just last night), hopefully I can come up with something really soon to catch the festive like Christmas and all.
October 4, 2009
Children's Day 2009 @ Sentosa
Ethyl's virgin visit to the island was not with us, in fact it was Mom and aunts who brought her there to take the sky tower and tour-ing around the island. Since she had been there once, needless to say, little boy was never there before. Ethyl has been talking and learning about places of interests in various countries. She has been bugging Hubby and myself that she wants to visit the island, and we obliged to bring her there on Children's Day and spending the day out of the bustling city.
Preparing for the journey is always my duty. Making sure we brought the necessities more than needed; ensuring that all three of them had enough to wear and use. I have to admit it is a chore, however seeing that they all enjoyed their short 2 days 1 night trip is really fulfilling!
I planned to visit many places! Having said that, some unexpected circumstances happened on day 1 of our trip and we reached the island only at noon. Time is really limited, and we really tried to have some fun.
I booked Siloso Beach Resort for the first time, and Hubby was saying, we should be back without the kids the next time *winks*
The Roof Garden Suite
Kids enjoying the TV program
the queen size bed
sea view from our room
sunken jacuzzi...
sun deck chairs
The rain shower..
A pity we didn't get to use the roof garden facilities as the little ones prefers to swim at the pool. That was why Hubby wanted to return without the kids in tow :D
We prep ourselves and brought them out to the dolphin lagoon!
we took the bus to our destination
Ethyl enjoyed the show...Brayden was cranky as he was too tired...
Straight after, we went to Underwater World...before that, we had our first meal at the island.
Ethyl and I shared this and Hubby had his to himself.
Peacock and peahens
The kids were fascinated by the birds and they kept coming to us for food!
In the tunnel...
Both were awed by the different breeds of swimmers. Brayden seemed to like stingrays more than the others. Ethyl loves both stingrays and sharks.
What is this??
My fave wobbly jellyfish!!
Aren't they pretty?
Next, we took a stroll at Imbiah Walk.
Took the beach tram back to hotel to swim and bathe
We ended the day with dinner at Kim Gary (vivo city) and a stroll at the mall. We missed the musical fountain. Oh well...
Day 2 was not a good start. Received bad news via sms and lost all mood to have fun. Thus we went for breakie, a dip and got ready to check out and back to the main island.
We promised Ethyl an ice-cream treat...
Look at her charming eyes...
Hubby playing the videos captured
Little boy was tired...
Sentosa, we will be back for more fun!
Preparing for the journey is always my duty. Making sure we brought the necessities more than needed; ensuring that all three of them had enough to wear and use. I have to admit it is a chore, however seeing that they all enjoyed their short 2 days 1 night trip is really fulfilling!
I planned to visit many places! Having said that, some unexpected circumstances happened on day 1 of our trip and we reached the island only at noon. Time is really limited, and we really tried to have some fun.
I booked Siloso Beach Resort for the first time, and Hubby was saying, we should be back without the kids the next time *winks*
The Roof Garden Suite
Kids enjoying the TV program
the queen size bed
sea view from our room
sunken jacuzzi...
sun deck chairs
The rain shower..
A pity we didn't get to use the roof garden facilities as the little ones prefers to swim at the pool. That was why Hubby wanted to return without the kids in tow :D
We prep ourselves and brought them out to the dolphin lagoon!
we took the bus to our destination
Ethyl enjoyed the show...Brayden was cranky as he was too tired...
Straight after, we went to Underwater World...before that, we had our first meal at the island.
Ethyl and I shared this and Hubby had his to himself.
Peacock and peahens
The kids were fascinated by the birds and they kept coming to us for food!
In the tunnel...
Both were awed by the different breeds of swimmers. Brayden seemed to like stingrays more than the others. Ethyl loves both stingrays and sharks.
What is this??
My fave wobbly jellyfish!!
Aren't they pretty?
Next, we took a stroll at Imbiah Walk.
Took the beach tram back to hotel to swim and bathe
We ended the day with dinner at Kim Gary (vivo city) and a stroll at the mall. We missed the musical fountain. Oh well...
Day 2 was not a good start. Received bad news via sms and lost all mood to have fun. Thus we went for breakie, a dip and got ready to check out and back to the main island.
We promised Ethyl an ice-cream treat...
Look at her charming eyes...
Hubby playing the videos captured
Little boy was tired...
Sentosa, we will be back for more fun!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)