Monthly Article (july-August)

Article #1

THE FIRST DAY AT SCHOOL

The first day at school can be tough for children and parents, but with a little preparation it'll be easier for you to cope.

It helps if your child has the practical skills schools expect before they start. They will probably be quite nervous about starting. But you can't always tell who will settle and who won't. A sociable child won't necessarily fit into school straight away.

The idea of 'big school' can be very appealing for children, but it can also be quite frightening. It's useful to let your child know what's coming by reading them books about starting school and talking to them about it. That will reduce their anxiety.

Whatever your child's reaction to school, remember that the teachers will have seen it all before. Schools are familiar with children who are worried in their first few weeks. Find out what system your school uses, and then help prepare your child by letting them know what to expect.

      The first weeks of school

School isn't easy for everyone. During the first few weeks of school it's essential to keep communicating with your child and take care to notice signs that things aren't going well.

The excitement of the first week has worn off, but they still feel nervous.  you can watch your child's behaviour as well as listen to what they say. Look at your child's behaviour in the morning when you get ready for school, Are they bright and lively, or dawdling? How do they react when you ask them how their day was?. Keep your questions simple. It's difficult for a five-year-old to answer a question about whether they're happy at school. You'll get more information if you ask specific questions, such as who did you play with? Who did you eat lunch with? ? Are there any naughty boys or girls in your class?

      Talk to the teacher

Make the teacher the first person you contact if you think something is wrong. Start by passing on what your child said. For example, point out that your child started off by really enjoying school, but is now nervous and has told you that somebody kicked him. Or mention that your child says he doesn't have any friends. The teacher will know whether that's the case or not.

It can be hard to cope when you see your child lining up in the playground for the first time. This is normal.

It's your child's first real step to independence. It'll be a world that they know and you don't. When your child settles down and enjoys school, it's a tribute to how well you have raised him or her, so try to look at itpositively.

Article #2

Teaching Patriotism to Kids

Patriotism means love, respect and loyalty towards one’s country. Instilling values of patriotism in children will help them to become responsible citizens. Indonesia is a great country with a rich culture and heritage. There were many great leaders and freedom fighters who fought bravely for independence. Parents must try their best to ensure that children love and respect their motherland. Here is how you can instil patriotism in your children.

Teaching Them about Great Indonesian Leaders

Many great leaders such as Soekarno, Pangeran Diponegoro, Kartini, etc  have been born in our country. They underwent great sacrifices and hardships for achieving independence. Parents or grandparents should definitely teach children about these leaders.

Teaching Them about Respect and Honour

Children should be taught to honour and respect the national flag, national emblem and other national symbols. They must be taught to stand up when the national anthem is being played anywhere. They should be taught to never destroy national property and always be civil citizens. Along with this, they should also be taught to keep their country clean. They should be taught to avoid littering on roads. Keeping your city, state and country clean shows respect for your country.  

Patriotic Activities

You can teach your children patriotic songs. You can get the lyrics printed on a paper and sing together with them. Encourage your children to participate in Independence Day functions. Take your kids out to visit historic places or national monuments together as a family.

Make Use of Media

You can show your kids DVD’s and videos which have a strong patriotic flavour. You can check out some classic books related to the freedom struggle and other similar books which can build a spirit of patriotism in your child.

Sharing Stories

Parents and grandparents should share stories of the freedom struggle. Old people especially might have some interesting stories to share. Schools should encourage interaction between defence personnel and children. Parents and schools can collaborate together and invite defence personnel such as members from the Army, Air Force and others to share stories of war, etc. This will interest the children and provide them an opportunity to have close interaction with these persons. Patriotism should be taught to children so that they become better citizens. After all, children are the future of the country and we must strive to make the future bright.