Tag: Study in Singapore

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Benefits of MILCHEL English Reading Program

Fondly referred to by Milchelians as ERP, the English Reading Program is an integral  part of our Academic Services here at MILCHEL.   Over the years, ERP has evolved but our core objective remains the same:  increase Milchelians’ exposure to English-language texts. 

At the heart of ERP lies an approach that goes beyond conventional methods of language instruction. Through carefully curated group sessions, we strive to improve English proficiency.  Moreover, we strive to foster a deep appreciation for the written word among Milchelians.

Every Monday through Thursday, Milchelians gather virtually on Zoom.  They form groups based on their English-speaking standards. Guided by a dedicated facilitator-teacher, each session unfolds with a sense of anticipation of the texts for the day.

The format that ERP takes on is simple yet effective.  Students take turns reading passages from selected texts, while the facilitator provides real-time feedback and guidance. Pronunciation errors are corrected, complex passages are simplified for comprehension, and unfamiliar vocabulary is explained.  This way, we ensure that every participant gains a thorough understanding of the material.

Furthermore, ERP is more than just a reading program.  It hopes that through engaging discussions and interactive activities, Milchelians not only enhance their language skills but also develop critical thinking abilities and confidence in expressing themselves in English.

One of the most remarkable outcomes of ERP is the newfound confidence that Milchelians develop. As they conquer linguistic challenges and navigate complex texts, they discover a sense of self-assurance that transcends language barriers.

Moreover, ERP serves as a gateway to a lifelong love of reading. In a world where digital distractions abound, instilling a passion for literature is more important than ever. By immersing students in a wide array of English-language texts, ERP ignites in Milchelians a curiosity for learning. 

Finally, perhaps the greatest testament to ERP’s impact lies in the transformation it brings about in Milchelians.  We take so much delight when Milchelians, after a holiday break, asks us excitedly, “When will ERP start?” From hesitant readers to avid learners, participants emerge from the program with a newfound appreciation for the power of language and the joy of discovering new worlds through words.

In closing, as we continue to uphold our commitment to excellence in Milchelians’ academics, ERP stands as an example of dedication. By providing a nurturing environment where Milchelians can make mistakes and learn, we allow them to thrive and develop a healthy interaction with the English language.  Such will help them reach their full potential in this vast society where the ability to communicate is one’s greatest asset. 

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Instilling Responsible Spending Habits

Responsible spending habits are an essential skill that everyone must have.  As we have observed in Milchel, children have different spending habits.  Some as responsible, but others are excessive in their spending.  One this is for sure – they learned their spending habits from their parents.  Directly or indirectly, it’s the parents who have taught them whatever they know about money and spending. 

If you have young children who are just beginning to understand the concept of money and spending, now’s the good time to teach them responsibly spending.  As they say, it’s best to start them early.  At an early age, children must learn to distinguish between needs and wants.  Do they really need that new toy?  Or do they just want it?  Do they really need that insanely expensive bag?  Or do they just want it?

While we teach our children to think about their needs and wants before making a purchase, we also encourage them to think critically.  Do they really need that top of the line gadget?  Or will a mid-level one do the job?  Is it really wise to spend their pocket money for the month in just one weekend?  The more they practice critical thinking, they easier they will develop a good judgement when it comes so spending their money. 

Finally, let me circle back to the start of this article.  We said that whatever spending habits your children have, they definitely learned it from you.  So the best tip to remember in instilling responsible spending habits is to lead by example.  Whatever our children see from us are incredibly influential in our children’s attitudes towards money and spending.  That being said, reflect on your own spending habits and what your children are learning from you.  If there’s still a room for improvement, enter that room with your child and change your spending habits together. 

Over-all, it all boils down to your family’s values that you pass on to your children.  Once they know the difference between needs and wants and the importance of being reasonable in spending, they can then think critically about their spending habits.  Later, they can make good decisions about the hard-earned money that their parents regularly top-up in their pockets. 

adorable little ethnic children watching funny video on laptop with mother
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

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What can Milchelians gain from participating in Indulge activities? 

What is Indulge

Indulge is one of the core features of Milchel’s Character Department.  Indulge activities are a venue where Milchelians have fun playing with their friends and at the same time learn the 7 Milchel Core Values and 5 Key Traits.  Aside from these, they also learn other important soft skills that they learn while playing. 

The Committee

At the start of the year,  Milchelians are placed in groups.  Then, the groups are assigned a specific month when they become the committee.  As the committee, they prepare the games for the other Indulge members.  All Indulge members get to be part of the committee that prepares the games.  Games in Indulge can be sports, relay, fun challenges, and the like.  It’s up to the committee what they want to offer the whole Indulge group.

At this stage of Indulge, they learn to communicate with other committee members in planning the games.  They also get to exercise their creativity for they’d have to plan not only a fun activity for all Indulge members but also something where they can all learn from.  They also learn time management because they usually follow a timeline when they have to finish the games planning.  They also learn leadership and followership because they are assigned specific tasks to complete. 

Indulge Day

On the actual Indulge day, the committee and all other Indulge members get together to play the games that was planned by the committee.  Prior to this, they attend a short teaching session to raise their awareness on the 7 Milchel Core Values and 5 Key Traits that they will learn and practice on that specific Indulge Day.  Milchelians learn a different Core Value and Key Trait from each Indulge Day. 

While participating in the games itself, Milchelians get to learn teamwork, problem solving, and adaptability.  They also learn to become a good sport.  They also learn decision making, good communication skills, and getting along with others.

Over-all, Indulge is a great venue for Milchelians to bond with their friends through the games.  At the same time, the learn plenty of soft skills and values that will be beneficial for them as they mature.  

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The Importance of Spending Special Occasions for Foreign Students in Singapore

Being away from home can be both an exciting adventure and a stressful experience for international students studying in Singapore.  Getting to celebrate important events with their family back home is one factor that is vital to their general well-being and academic achievement.  For many Milchelians, going home for holidays like Chinese New Year is especially significant.  This post discusses the various reasons why spending special occasions with family is essential for foreign students in Singapore.  Here, we emphasize the positive impact it can have on students’ mental, emotional, and academic well-being.

Cultural Connection

On special occasions, Milchelians especially those from China and Thailand, among others, like to return to their home countries.  For them, it is a way to keep a strong bond with their cultural roots.  Chinese New Year is rooted in cultural traditions, and being home during CNY connects them to their tradition.  This connection provides a sense of identity and belonging, contributing to a more enriching cultural experience.

Emotional Well-being

It might be challenging and isolating to study abroad.  Celebrating joyous occasions with family provides foreign students a much-needed emotional lift.  The comfort and warmth of family gatherings during festivities create a supportive environment that helps reduce stress.  This emotional recharge is crucial for maintaining mental well-being, promoting a healthier mindset, and enhancing the overall study abroad experience.

Motivation and Energy Boost

Special occasions offer a break from the students’ demanding academic schedule.  These let students to recharge and return to their studies with renewed motivation.  The upcoming celebrations serves as a motivational factor, providing students with a goal to strive towards during their studies.  Knowing that a reunion with family is coming can serve as a powerful source of energy.  It helps students overcome academic challenges and navigate the stresses of studying overseas.

Family Support

An important factor in a student’s academic career is family support.  Having special events spent with family promotes encouragement and support.  With the knowledge that their family is at their side, students resume their studies with a stronger support system.  Students who get this support may perform better academically because they feel more safe and confident in pursuing their academic goals.

Creating Lasting Memories

Special occasions are opportunities to create lasting memories with family.  These memories become a source of comfort during challenging times and contribute to a well-rounded overseas-studying experience.  Having shared experiences with family adds a layer of depth to the overall narrative of a student’s time abroad, making it a more fulfilling and memorable chapter in their life.

The importance of Milchelians and other foreign students spending special occasions with their families, for example during Chinese New Year, cannot be overstated.  Beyond the cultural connection, it provides emotional well-being, motivation, family support, and the creation of lasting memories.  These factors contribute to a more positive and enriching study abroad experience.  They also help students navigate the challenges of being in a foreign land and empower them to succeed. 

Of course, we have activities planned for Milchelians who are staying in Singapore during the Chinese New Year period.  Our dear kids will not be missing out on the festivities.  From gatherings, snacks, and games, we make sure that they feel the festive spirit here in Milchel, their second home. 

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Beyond Goal Setting: Nurturing Continued Success in Your Child’s Education

As Milchelians set their academic goals, the journey doesn’t end there; it’s just the beginning.  We – parents, guardians, and coordinators – play a crucial role in the follow-up.  This is to ensure that the energy gained from goal setting translates into on-going success.

The Importance of Follow-Up

After the initial excitement of goal setting, it’s important to maintain a constant and supportive role in Milchelians’ educational journey.  Regular check-ins and discussions about progress create an environment where goals aren’t just set but are actively pursued.

Celebrating Achievements

Recognizing and celebrating small victories is key to maintaining motivation.  Whether it’s improved grades, completion of a challenging project, or personal growth, acknowledging achievements promotes a positive mindset in children.  This also reinforces the value of setting and attaining goals.

Adjusting Goals

As Milchelians progress, goals may need adjustment.  We must encourage open communication about challenges and aspirations.  Furthermore, we must be ready to listen to what our children say.  More importantly, we must be willing to let our children adjust their goals to align with their interests and capabilities.  This flexibility ensures that goal setting remains a dynamic and meaningful process.

Identifying Challenges

Regular follow-up allows us, guiding adults, to identify any challenges Milchelian learners may be facing.  Whether it’s difficulties with specific subjects, time management issues, or personal struggles, addressing challenges promptly ensures timely support and intervention.

Encouraging Reflection

Engaging Milchelians in reflective talks about their goals is also crucial.  Encouraging them to assess what worked well and what could be improved is a helpful strategy.  Moreover, guiding our children and teens how they can apply these insights to future goals is key.  This reflective process instils a habit of self-awareness and continuous improvement.

The Consequences of Neglecting Follow-Up

While goal setting is a powerful tool, neglecting follow-up can lessen its impact.  Without on-going support and encouragement, goals may lose their significance, and Milchelians’ initial energy may decline.  This could result in a lack of motivation, direction, and a missed opportunity for continuous growth.

Conclusion: A Lifelong Journey of Success

In conclusion, goal setting is not a one-time event, but a continuous journey.  By actively following up, parents, guardians, and coordinators contribute to the development of skills such as awareness, perseverance, adaptability, and self-reflection.  This on-going support ensures that the benefits of goal setting extend beyond the initial stage.  By doing so, we are guiding Milchelians towards a lifelong journey of academic success and personal growth.