Alhamdulillah, from the list of playgroup programmes that both Zauji and I have looked into, we decided to put Ibn in the PCF Littlesteps Programme. Today we went down to one of the nearest branches from our house and it seemed that it is the likable choice of ibn. He adapted to the environment easily and was very independent - taking the toys and started playing on his own and not clinging onto either one of us.
Indeed READERS, child's comfort with the school environment and the people is one of the outmost importance aspect in selecting a programme. I was reminded when I saw him being so so comfortable in the centre. Alhamdulillah, I relearn from my dear ibn.
Following are some other aspects in selecting this programme:
2. We can use bint's CDA for payment of ibn's fees later
3. As mentioned in the earlier blog, ibn's SLT recommended us to enrol him in a programme so to hope that he will open up(speech) especially among the peers. In addition, I would like to look into his social emotional development having ibn to mingle with the other kids in the group. So at this point of time, it is more as a transition before we put him into the choice of Muslim-English programme for his preschool years. So no Islamic teachings at school involved, just at home.
4. The time that I have chosen is the slot when there are the least number of children. Reason being the smaller the group of children to the teachers, the better attention each child receives from the teachers. Thus the needs of the child is most probably met. It also measures the quality of the programme. Again I was reminded to put the BEST INTEREST of my children's 1st though there is another favourable slot, but the number of children is more. Well, sacrifice upon sacrifice READERS! Give the BEST that we can when they are small.
5. Parents involvement is expected from the programme e.g. when there is a field trip, parent/s must tag along with the child. Homework and materials requiring parents' contribution are also included. With parental involvement, parents will be able to know what their child has learnt in school, thus allowing parents to reinforce any concepts or learning aspect learnt with the child at home.
6. Distance is near although it requires us to walk for about 10 minutes to and fro home and centre. So no unnecessary transportation monies need to fork out.
7. Affordable - neither expensive nor cheap, due to the age group. The younger the group of children that the teachers have to handle the more you have to pay.
The above aspects are not placed in order of importance, except the 1st one.
Something about Baby Bonus and CDA...
Alhamdulillah with the birth of bint(2nd child), we can make use of her CDA for payment of fees for all our kids education up to 6 years of their age. CDA is applicable from 2nd child to 4th child. The government will match dollar to dollar for any programme from a list of approved association/school. Can you imagine if bint is not born? We would have to pay fully for ibn's education.
Ummu Mukhtaar
"CDA" stands for Child Development Account
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