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The Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Children’s Growth

Extracurricular activities play a vital role in shaping children’s development. These activities encompass various pursuits that extend beyond the classroom, offering opportunities for growth in multiple areas of life.

While there is a distinction between co-curricular and extracurricular activities, for simplicity, we will refer to both as extracurricular activities in this article. Co-curricular activities are closely tied to academic subjects, such as a robotics club that applies STEM concepts. On the other hand, extracurricular activities, like a badminton club, focus on recreation and personal development, independent of academics.

Some students may find extracurricular activities tiring and time-consuming. While this is true, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. In fact, these activities offer numerous advantages that contribute to a child’s overall growth. Below are five key benefits of participating in extracurricular activities:

1. Skill Development

First and foremost, students gain practical skills that are directly related to the activity. For instance, a robotics club teaches coding, problem-solving, and teamwork. Similarly, a music club helps students learn to play instruments and develop discipline through regular practice. These acquired skills often translate to real-world applications, boosting both confidence and competence.

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2. Exploration of Interests

Furthermore, extracurricular activities allow children to explore and discover new hobbies or passions. A child who joins an art club, for example, may uncover a love for painting, while one who participates in a drama club might develop an interest in acting. These interests can evolve into lifelong hobbies, or even future career paths, providing both personal fulfilment and potential opportunities.

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3. Social and Emotional Growth

Additionally, by interacting with peers in group settings, students learn essential social skills such as teamwork, empathy, and communication. For instance, participating in a sports team not only teaches collaboration but also fosters lasting friendships. These social connections are invaluable, helping children develop emotional intelligence and resilience that will serve them throughout their lives.

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4. Time Management

Moreover, balancing schoolwork and extracurricular activities teaches students how to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively. A student juggling homework and preparing for a debate competition, for example, learns to allocate time wisely. This ability to manage multiple responsibilities is a critical skill that will benefit them in both their academic and professional futures.

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5. Leadership Opportunities

Finally, many extracurricular activities offer valuable leadership roles. A student who serves as the president of a club or the captain of a sports team learns how to guide others, make decisions, and take responsibility. These experiences help to build leadership qualities and foster confidence, preparing students for roles of leadership in adulthood.

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In conclusion, extracurricular activities are absolutely worth the time and effort. They extend beyond academic learning, shaping well-rounded, confident, and capable individuals who are ready to face life’s challenges. So, next time your child expresses reluctance about their extracurricular commitments, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the long-term benefits these activities provide, allowing you to respond with more insight and encouragement.

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Nurturing Young Minds: Tips for Fostering a Love for Reading in Children

A love for reading is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child.  It opens the doors to creativity and empathy.  It also serves as a meaningful way for children to spend their time. It offers an alternative to the lure of social media and online games.  However, it is a challenge to encourage kids to develop a reading habit if they are not inclined to read.

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Here are some tips to help your children discover the joy of reading:

1. Set a Good Example

Children learn best through imitation.  If they see you enjoying books, they’re more likely to do the same.  If you don’t read regularly, now is the perfect time to start.  Let your children see that reading is not just a chore but an enjoyable part of life.

2. Make Books Accessible

Ensure that books and reading materials are within easy reach.  When you go out, make it a point to visit bookstores. Pick up a few simple books that match your child’s current interests or reading level.  Avoid making reading feel unattainable by starting with materials that are easy and engaging for them.

3. Go Beyond the Book

Reading doesn’t end with closing the book. Discuss what your children are reading in a friendly, non-confrontational way.  Talk about the characters, the plot, or any favourite moments.  This helps children process what they read and connects reading with meaningful family conversations.

4. For Milchelian Parents: Leverage the English Reading Program (ERP)

At Milchel, our English Reading Program (ERP) creates the perfect environment to nurture a love for reading.  It incorporates all three tips above – exposure to books, encouraging discussion, and setting a positive example of reading.  Moreover, ERP helps children expand their vocabulary and improve comprehension, giving them a stronger foundation in English. Without ERP, many Milchelians might miss out on the opportunity to engage with diverse reading materials.

Closing Thoughts

Even if your child doesn’t like to read, there are ways to introduce them to the world of reading.  It may take some patience and effort, but the rewards are immeasurable.

As Dr. Seuss said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

So, start today and guide your child on a journey to become a lifelong reader. It’s a gift they will cherish forever.

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Starting the Year Right: A Guide for Students and Parents

As the new academic year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and prepare for success. This year, we encourage Milchelians to start strong, build positive habits, and develop the traits and values that lead to long-term growth. Here’s how we’re guiding Milchelians to make this their best year yet.

Why Start the Year Right?

Starting the year with focus, motivation, and readiness sets the tone for success. By getting clear on goals and making small, intentional changes, students can pave the way for a productive and fulfilling year.

Tools for Success: 5 Key Traits and 7 Milchel Core Values

Achieving goals and targets goes beyond setting them. Students need the right tools to stay on track, and we emphasize these 5 Key Traits and 7 Milchel Core Values to guide them.  Here they are together with examples of how they can be applied in their daily academic life. 

5 Key Traits:

  1. Awareness – Reflecting on past performance to identify areas for improvement.
  2. Discipline – Establishing a study routine and sticking to it.
  3. Responsibility – Staying organized and completing tasks on time.
  4. Perseverance – Pushing through challenges and never giving up.
  5. Confidence – Stepping out of comfort zones to take on leadership roles.

7 Milchel Core Values:

  1. Magnanimous – Fostering a welcoming, supportive environment for peers.
  2. Integrity – Setting realistic goals and working diligently to achieve them.
  3. Loving-Kindness – Helping others with assignments or encouraging participation.
  4. Compassionate – Supporting friends during tough times and celebrating small wins.
  5. Holistic Living – Balancing academics with hobbies and relaxation to avoid burnout.
  6. Effort – Consistently practicing skills, whether academic, athletic, or personal.
  7. Leadership – Motivating peers to stay committed to shared goals.

Sustaining Positive Habits

Building habits is only half the battle; sustaining them ensures long-term success. We encourage students to:

  • Wake up early and maintain an exercise routine for physical well-being.
  • Stay organized and timely with their academic tasks.
  • Persevere through tough subjects or challenges by seeking help and putting in consistent effort.

Closing Thoughts

Success this year begins with small steps, clear goals, and the determination to stay the course. Let’s support our students in nurturing these traits and values, ensuring they thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Here’s to a great start to the year ahead!

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Setting Goals as a Family: A Fresh Start for 2025

In our last post, we explored the importance of self-reflection.  We also discussed the key areas children and teens should evaluate as the year ends.  This week, we’re extending that discussion to goal setting.  Goal setting is a meaningful activity for parents and kids alike.  It’s a perfect activity as we close out 2024 and prepare for the opportunities and challenges of 2025.

Setting goals for the new year is not just about creating a to-do list.  It’s a symbolic fresh start.  Writing these goals on paper provides clarity and direction, acting as a motivational push for both children and parents.  Some families choose to write down their goals and display them prominently at home.  Others opt for a creative approach, like making a vision board. 

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Creating Goals Together

When setting goals with your child, structure the process to make it comprehensive and enjoyable.  Divide goals into meaningful categories to ensure balance and variety in your family’s aspirations.  Here are some areas you might focus on:

Academic Goals:  What does your child want to achieve at school?  This could be improving in a subject, participating in a competition, or developing better study habits.

Financial Goals:  Introduce basic budgeting or saving for something meaningful, such as a gadget, a year-end trip, etc.

Health and Wellness Goals:  Discuss staying active, eating better, or maintaining a healthy routine.

Social Goals:  Encourage building friendships, improving communication skills, or being more supportive to peers.

Unique Experiences:  Plan adventures or activities your family hasn’t done before, like trying a new hobby,

Skill Development:  Encourage learning a new skill, such as playing an instrument, coding, baking, or driving.

Care for Self and Others:  Incorporate values like kindness, gratitude, or mindfulness into daily life.

As you guide your child in setting their goals, remember to set your own goals too.  Let this be a shared activity that fosters connection, collaboration, and mutual growth.

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The Importance of Togetherness

Goal setting can be more than just a task—it can become a cherished family tradition.  Use this time to bond with your child, share dreams, and learn more about each other’s aspirations.  The goals you set now will serve as a guide for the coming year.  Moreover, they will provide a foundation for reflection at the end of 2025.

As you embark on this journey together, may the process bring your family closer, inspire growth, and set the tone for a fulfilling year ahead.  Let’s welcome 2025 with clarity, purpose, and shared determination.

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The Importance of Self-Reflection

As the year draws to a close, it’s a good time to pause and reflect.  Just like adults, students have faced many experiences this year.  Some may have achieved significant milestones, while others may have encountered challenges or setbacks.  Regardless, reflecting on how we lived through 2024 is essential.  It allows us to celebrate our successes and learn from our mistakes.  As parents, we play a crucial role in guiding our children through this process of self-reflection.

Here are some key areas to consider during this reflection:

Health

Was I physically active and maintaining good fitness levels?  Did I develop or stick to healthy routines, such as regular exercise or balanced meals?  Were my sleep patterns sufficient to keep me energized throughout the day?  How well did I handle emotional challenges—did I find healthy ways to cope with stress or seek support when needed? 

Reflecting on physical and emotional health is crucial for understanding areas where improvement might be needed.

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Finances

Did I manage my money wisely this year?  Was I able to save consistently for things I wanted or needed?  Did I overspend on unnecessary items or fall into impulsive buying habits?  On the other hand, did I reward myself responsibly for my hard work?  

Financial habits developed at a young age can set the tone for how money is managed later in life.

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Social Life

Did I make efforts to build new friendships or strengthen existing ones?  How often did I reconnect with people who matter to me?  Was I kind, helpful, or supportive to others in my community?  Did I participate in charitable activities or take the time to assist those in need?  

Reflecting on social relationships helps students assess their empathy, kindness, and communication skills.

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Academics

Did I develop better study techniques that improved my learning?  Did I manage my time well when it came to schoolwork and assignments?  Am I closer to achieving my main academic goals, such as excelling in a subject or improving my grades?  Did I take the initiative to learn a new skill or pursue a personal interest outside of school?

Academic reflection encourages students to recognize their progress and identify areas for growth.

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Self-reflection is a vital skill because it helps us become more self-aware and intentional about our choices. Many students lack the ability to reflect deeply on their own, so it’s important for parents to support and guide them through this process. As you help your child reflect, consider taking the opportunity to do your own self-reflection as well. Together, you can end the year with a clearer sense of growth and purpose.

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Making the Most of Your Children’s School Holiday

With the year-end school holidays upon us, it’s time for children to enjoy a well-deserved break after a year of hard work. If you’re a parent of a MILCHELian enjoying this holiday season, read on for tips to make the most of this precious time together.

First of all, children are naturally drawn to gadgets and could easily spend all day on screens if allowed. But you can guide them towards more meaningful activities by planning, suggesting, or even joining in! Every family has different levels of flexibility and availability, so remember, it’s all about balancing your responsibilities at home and work.

The single best tip is to focus on quality of activities over quantity. Quality means asking a few key questions: Will you spend time with your child in person? Will this activity expose them to new learning experiences? Will they have the chance to try or see something new? If so, it’s a great choice.

An overseas trip is a wonderful way to spend quality time together. First, traveling brings the family together in a new setting and encourages bonding. Secondly, it offers new cultural and culinary experiences that expand your child’s view of the world. Finally, whether it’s a first-time visit or a favourite destination, there’s always something exciting and fresh to see.

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But if a trip abroad isn’t possible, there are many ways to create meaningful memories close to home. For one, you can take your child to a theatre play and introduce them to the world of performing arts. Attend a concert featuring a band they admire and show that you value their interests. Furthermore, you can try a new restaurant together, sharing a new culinary experience, or cook something special at home. Let your kids join in on grocery shopping, meal prep, and even cleanup. Finally, for a cozy option, start a movie marathon or a new series together on your favourite streaming platform.

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The options are endless, and there’s no shortage of ways to spend meaningful time with your children this holiday season. We hope these ideas inspire you to create joyful and memorable experiences with your family this year-end!

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Guiding Children Toward Environmental Awareness

Many places around the world are heavily affected by environmental changes.  Rainy seasons cause severe flooding in some areas, while summer temperatures reach scorching levels in others.  These extreme weather patterns highlight the pressing need to address environmental issues.  This also puts to the forefront the role of education in preparing our children to respond responsibly.  No child is too young to start learning about caring for the planet.  Even small conversations and simple actions can make a lasting impression.  These can help kids develop an early awareness of the world around them.

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Here are some reasons why raising environmental awareness in our kids is important now more than ever.  We also briefly talk about  how you can do this in your simple ways as parents and guardians: 

Awareness.  First, even at a young age, children need to see the real challenges our planet is facing.  Issues like pollution, climate change, and deforestation may be difficult for them to fully grasp.  However, even a surface-awareness of such issues opens their eyes to problems they might not have thought about.  If a news pops up on your timeline, talk to your children about it.  That is a good start in planting in them a seed of responsibility for the world they live in. 

Small Actions.  When we teach kids about sustainability, they can start making small, impactful changes like recycling, conserving water, and reducing waste. These are habits that, with our guidance, can stay with them into adulthood.  For instance, explain to your child why you prefer bringing a water bottle instead of buying water in single-use bottles.  This makes them see that they can do something about an issue that seems too big for them to tackle.

Active Participants.  Knowledge empowers kids to take part in simple, efforts like recycling at home, community clean-ups, or tree-planting activities.  When you plan for family charity involvements, consider taking part in activities where your kids can directly participate.  When children are direct participants, they can feel like they are part of something bigger.  From a small act like choosing a reusable drinking water bottle, to a bigger act of joining a community clean-up, children can see the impact that they can make. 

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By guiding our children toward environmental awareness, we’re helping them understand the world they live.  We are also nurturing their potential to become responsible, caring stewards of the planet. Each small conversation, action, and shared experience strengthens their connection to the environment.  These build their understanding of their role in protecting it. As parents and guardians, we hold the unique opportunity to plant seeds of awareness, empathy, and action that will grow with them.

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Celebrating a Fruitful Year – MILCHEL Night 2024

MILCHEL Night 2024 is just around the corner, marking an annual tradition where Milchelians and staff come together to reflect on the year that is coming to a close.  This special event, held at the end of the year, serves as a celebration of the kids’ hard work.  It is also an opportunity to look back on the accomplishments we’ve achieved together.  A highlight of the night is a video that showcases the activities we’ve had throughout the year, reinforcing a sense of achievement and unity within our MILCHEL family.

At MILCHEL, we believe that education goes beyond academics and value development.  Events like this play a vital role in our kids’ success, motivating them and giving them something to look forward to after months of hard work.

MILCHEL Night is more than just a party—it holds a deeper purpose.  First and foremost, it’s a celebration of achievements.  On this night, we give out recognitions and awards to acknowledge everyone’s contributions to the hostel community and honour outstanding achievements that reflect the values we teach.  Secondly, it’s an opportunity to practice social skills.  With games and great food, it’s a chance to unwind and enjoy quality time with friends.  Finally, the night serves as a moment of stress relief.  Both students and staff can let their hair down, rewarding themselves for finishing the year strong.

These aspects all contribute to community building and fostering a sense of belonging.  MILCHEL is more than just a place for academics—it is a family.  We aim to strengthen family bonds through this event.

Overall, MILCHEL Night enriches Milchelians’ learning experience in Singapore and strengthens the sense of community among students and staff alike.   We are all looking forward to enjoying the event very soon. 

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Teaching Perseverance: A Key to Lifelong Success for Children

Perseverance is the ability to keep trying and not give up, even when things are difficult or take a long time to achieve.  It is one of Milchel’s 5 Key traits that we endeavour to teach Milchelians.  Perseverance can be trained in kids, and parents play a crucial role in doing this.  This trait is useful to kids as they study, and later on in their adult life as productive members of the society.

Firstly, parents should model perseverance.  Children learn a lot from what they see from their parents.  You can show perseverance by setting goals and working toward them consistently.  You can also share your experiences to your children and highlight those instances when you overcame a difficulty by being perseverant.   

Secondly, guide your child to set challenging but attainable goals.  This need not be only school-related.  This can be in the chores they do at home, or in their other sports or hobbies.  Help them to break their major tasks into smaller steps so that when they experience satisfaction, they will be more motivated to continue towards their goal. 

Finally, you can teach a child perseverance by providing them with opportunities to face challenges. As parents, it is our automatic response to shelter our kids and protect them from difficulties.  However, allowing them to face some difficulties could be helpful.  When they realise that they can overcome challenges by themselves, they learn to be persistent and their confidence grows.

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It’s important to realise, too, that perseverance is not only applicable to studies.  There are many other areas where a child can learn and practise perseverance.  When kids learn perseverance through these non-academic areas, it will naturally transfer to their academic attitude.

Sports, music, and arts are areas that require consistent practice and effort. Skills develop gradually too, instead of instantly.  The perseverance learned through activities in these areas can easily translate to perseverance in academics.

Household chores are also a good training for kids to learn perseverance.  Tasks involved in the household teach kids the importance of finishing a task, no matter how tedious it may be.  It helps them develop a work ethic that is very similar to what they can apply in their academic work. 

When parents consistently encourage perseverance in multiple aspects of their child’s life, they equip the young with the resilience they need to handle academic challenges. They’ll learn that the process of sticking with something, even when it’s hard, is what ultimately leads to success.

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Managing Kids’ Screen Time

In today’s digital age, screen time has become an integral part of children’s lives. While technology offers valuable learning opportunities, too much screen exposure can have negative consequences. Excessive screen time has been linked to issues like poor sleep, decreased physical activity, and impaired social skills. To ensure children grow up healthy and well-rounded, it is crucial to maintain a balanced approach to screen time and other activities.  Here are some simple strategies to manage kids’ screen time: 

Set Clear Screen Time Limits

When kids think they can use their devices for an unlimited period of time, they will happily do so.  It is important that parents set clear screen time limits for them.   As a general guide, 7 to 8-year-olds may get 1 to 1.5 hours screen time per day.  9 to 10-year-olds may get 1.5 to 2 hours per day.  11 to 12-year-olds may get 2 to 2.5 hours screen time per day.  13 to 14-year-olds may get 2.5 to 3 hours screen time per day.  15-16-year-olds may get 3 to 4 hours per day. 

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Encourage Outdoor Activities

Kids need to get outdoors, get some fresh air, and be exposed to some sun.  Get them away from their gadgets by engaging in outdoor activities.  This can be as simple as walking around or playing sports.  These activities need not be competitive.  You don’t even need to get a sports coach if you don’t want to.  Put on your shoes and spend some outdoor time with your kids.  This will be good not only for them, but also for you. 

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Designate Tech-Free Zones

There are times when outdoor activities are not possible, so there’s no choice but to stay indoors.  When this happens, you can assign tech-free zones at home.  Tech-free zones are places where kids and adults are not allowed to use gadgets.  A common tech-free zone at home is the dining area and the bed.  During meal times, discourage phone usage and encourage healthy conversations among family members.  During bedtime, try not to let kids use their gadgets so they can be ready for a good night’s rest. 

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Maintaining a healthy balance between screen time and other activities is essential for children’s physical, emotional, and social development. By setting clear limits and encouraging outdoor activities parents can help their kids cultivate a well-rounded lifestyle. Creating screen-free spaces will further reinforce the importance of balance. With these strategies in place, children can enjoy the benefits of technology without sacrificing their health and well-being.