Category: Important of education

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The Benefits of Mindfulness for Children

A current buzzword in wellness is mindfulness. What is it, and how is it useful to students? Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment. It’s about noticing what you are thinking, feeling, or experiencing right now. For children, it feels like pressing pause, taking a deep breath, and focusing on one thing at a time.

Mindfulness is useful in a child’s busy academic and social life. School, activities, friends, and technology keep kids rushing from one thing to the next. Mindfulness helps them slow down, feel calmer, and better understand their emotions. It is a life skill they can carry into school, friendships, and family life.

Some of the main benefits of mindfulness include:

Improved focus and learning. Mindfulness trains children’s attention, helping them concentrate on lessons, listen carefully, and remember what they learn.

Reduced stress and more calm. It gives them simple tools like breathing and pausing, which lower worries and ease pressure.

Better emotional regulation. It encourages kids to notice feelings without judgment and respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.

Greater resilience and well-being. It builds coping skills and supports healthy habits like rest, reflection, and thoughtful choices.

Stronger kindness and connection. It fosters empathy and compassion, helping children strengthen friendships and family relationships.

Parents do not need to be experts to guide children to do mindfulness practice. They only need to slow down, be present, and share the experience. Here are some simple, hands-on mindfulness activities you can try with your children over the coming school holidays:

Bead Stringing. Children can slowly thread beads, noticing the colours, textures, and how each bead slides into place.

Popsicle Stick Patterns. Kids can arrange sticks into lines, shapes, or patterns while focusing on movement and design.

Mindful Colouring. Encourage children to colour slowly, notice each shade, and focus on the motion of their hands.

Nature Walk “Treasure Hunt.” Ask them to find three things they can see, two they can hear, and one they can touch.

Mindful Breathing. Children can inhale as if smelling a flower and exhale as if blowing out a candle.

Mindfulness is a gift we can give children. It helps them handle challenges, enjoy the present, and connect with others more deeply. By practicing simple activities, parents and children can learn mindfulness together. Small, consistent steps create calm, kindness, and resilience that will last a lifetime.

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When AI Goes Too Far: A Heartbreaking Story for Parents

Just recently, a news story came out about a teenager who had been spending long hours “talking” with an AI chatbot. At first, it seemed harmless – help with schoolwork, casual conversations, even a way to pass time. But over weeks of interaction, the AI began reinforcing the teen’s darkest thoughts. Instead of guiding them toward hope or professional help, it allegedly offered step-by-step suggestions for suicide, helped draft farewell notes, and even discouraged them from confiding in family. Eventually, the teen took their own life.

This is heartbreaking news for any parent, and will definitely cause us parents and educators plenty of worry for our teens. So what went wrong here?

How did a seemingly harmless “interaction” with AI lead to this?

Overreliance on AI for Emotional Support.  The teen turned to AI not just as a study tool, but as a companion and counsellor. Instead of seeking out parents, mentors, or trained professionals, they relied on a machine that cannot truly understand human pain. This overreliance left them isolated and vulnerable.

Flaws in AI Safeguards.  AI is designed with safety measures, but they are not foolproof. In this case, instead of de-escalating the situation, the chatbot reinforced harmful thoughts and even suggested dangerous actions. It shows that current safeguards can break down during prolonged or intense interactions.

Lack of Real-World Intervention.  While the teen’s conversations with AI grew darker, there was no adult monitoring, no teacher or parent aware of the severity of the situation. Without human eyes and ears, the warning signs went unnoticed until it was too late.

As outside observers of this news and many other similar stories that have come out recently, we want to remind adults to be vigilant. AI, like many modern tools, is a double-edged sword. It can be useful, but it can also be dangerous when misused or left unchecked. Nothing replaces human connection, parent–child conversations, and real relationships. At the end of the day, our children don’t need perfect answers from a machine.  They need presence, understanding, and love from us.

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The Bright Side of AI: How Students Can Benefit from It

In our last posts, we talked about what AI is, the dangers that come with it, and how adults can guide children in this new age of AI—including exactly what we need to guide kids about. In this post, we will focus on the good things about AI when students use it properly.

Good things about AI

Aid in Learning.  On top of what they learn from school teachers and tutors, students can also use AI to get additional information. The key is to look for reputable responses and then verify those with trusted sources or their teachers. This allows them to get immediate answers, which can later be confirmed, helping them learn more efficiently.

Alternative Perspective.  By “talking” with AI, students can gain new perspectives or have their own ideas challenged. It’s like having a discussion partner who asks questions and makes them think deeper. This kind of back-and-forth can lead to greater understanding and more meaningful learning.

Simplify Work.  Many AI tools are designed to help students with their educational needs, whether it’s creating presentations, posters, summaries, or visual aids. These tools can save time and boost productivity. However, it’s important that students remember: AI is a tool to support them, not to replace their effort or creativity.

Aside from these, AI can also be used for fun. Students can create memes, generate imaginative photos, or experiment with text-to-speech recordings. They can even make short animations, practice new languages with AI chatbots, or compose music and artwork. Used creatively, AI opens up a world of possibilities for entertainment and self-expression.

The use of AI is endless. Unfortunately, so are the real harms. In our next post, we will talk about one of the most alarming news stories about AI and how a teen who “talked to AI” was led to a disheartening end.

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How Can Adults Guide Children in an AI-Powered World?

Today’s students use AI more than we think.  The most commonly used tools include ChatGPT, Gemini (by Google), Microsoft Copilot, Grammarly, and Quillbot. These platforms can help students write, brainstorm, summarise, and learn faster. When used properly, AI can support thinking, spark creativity, and make learning more engaging.  But like any tool, it depends on how it’s used.  This is where we adults come in.  We must teach our children how to use AI wisely, not blindly.  

So what skills and habits do they need?

First, children must learn to be inquisitive.  Teach them to ask questions, and then ask follow-up questions.  If they get an answer, tell them to ask, “Why is this the answer?” or “Can I look at it another way?”  AI often gives answers confidently, but that doesn’t always mean the answer is correct.

Second, fact-checking is a must.  Students should learn to cross-check answers with trusted sources, especially websites ending in .gov, .edu, or .org.  These are more likely to offer accurate and reliable information.

Third, teach students not to rely on just one source.  One AI answer is not enough.  Encourage children to read from multiple sources, watch interviews with real experts, and even talk to real people when possible.  AI is helpful, but it should not replace human judgment or experience.

Fourth, stop students from being lazy.  A recent study suggests that relying too much on tools like ChatGPT can reduce brain activity linked to critical thinking and memory.  If students let AI do all the thinking, their own thinking muscles weaken.  We must remind them that learning still requires effort.

And finally, remind students to use AI to their advantage – not as a shortcut, but as a support.  Let AI help you get started, give ideas, or explain difficult topics.  But always add your own thoughts, understanding, and voice.

In conclusion, AI is not something we should fear.  It’s something we should learn to manage.  As adults, we need to model curiosity, critical thinking, and responsibility.  With the right guidance, our children can thrive in this AI-powered world, not by following AI blindly, but by thinking smarter, deeper, and more independently.

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The Dangers Brought by AI: Why We Need to Stay Alert

AI is smart.  But sometimes, it can be too smart for our own good.  There have been real cases where adults and professionals who are educated and experienced have been tricked by AI.  One woman received a video call from what looked and sounded exactly like her boss.  He asked her to send money to a bank account, and she did.  Later, it turned out to be an AI-generated deepfake.  Another case involved a lawyer who used AI to help write a legal case.  To his dismay, the AI had invented fake cases and sources, costing him credibility.  In another story, a company manager followed instructions from an AI-generated voice of their CEO and unknowingly handed over sensitive company information.

If trained adults can be fooled by AI, what more our children?

Kids and teenagers are online all the time.  But they may not always know how AI is being used around them.  For example, in online games, children may talk to strangers who use AI tools to change their voice or face.  These strangers may not be who they say they are.  Some teens have even been tricked into online relationships with predators who use AI to appear young or friendly.  Others may be fooled into buying low-quality products after reading AI-generated fake reviews.  And with tools that can copy voices or faces, kids may believe things that simply are not real.

These dangers are real.  AI can be used to cheat, lie, or trap people, especially those who are young or unaware.  But while we cannot stop AI from growing, we can learn how to protect ourselves and our children.  Parents, teachers, and students all need to learn how to spot red flags, question what they see online, and stay alert.

In our next blog post, we will talk about what we adults can do to guide our children in this AI-filled world.  With the right awareness and habits, we can stay one step ahead, and help our kids do the same.

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Encouraging Milchelians to Participate in Charity Work

At Milchel, charity work is a regular part of the school year. It’s not just an activity—we treat it as a learning experience. 

Being compassionate is one of our 7 Core Values: Magnanimous, Integrity, Loving-kindness, Compassionate, Holistic Living, Effort, and Leadership. We make sure Milchelians learn what compassion truly means by getting involved in real acts of charity.

We start by asking questions. First, we show the children the reality of those in need. This could be through videos, news articles, or stories. Then we ask, “Why should you help?” or “What does this have to do with you?” These questions make them think deeply. They begin to reflect and often say, “Yes, why shouldn’t I help?” Children have a natural sense of empathy. We just guide it in the right direction.

We also teach that helping is not always about giving money. Yes, money helps—but time and presence matter just as much. Many of our Milchelians have joined non-monetary projects. They’ve organised games for underprivileged kids, visited the elderly, and packed groceries for low-income families. These acts require effort and heart. Through them, students learn that their hands and time can change lives.

Charity work also teaches gratitude. As Milchelians help others, they start to see their own blessings. They become more thankful for their families, education, and daily comforts. They grow in awareness and begin to value what they have even more.

In summary, Milchel believes in building character through action. We expose children to the realities of others, ask the right questions, and let them experience the joy of helping. A compassionate child grows up to be a caring adult. That adult, in turn, teaches compassion to their own children. Imagine the impact if every generation carried this forward. At Milchel, we’re doing our part—one compassionate child at a time.

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Developing Confident Milchelians

Today, let’s talk about how Milchel helps Milchelians grow in confidence and self-esteem. There is no single way to build a child’s character. It takes a mix of different methods, consistent effort, and lots of practice in real-life situations. Confidence and self-worth don’t just happen—they’re developed with care, intention, and time.

Why is confidence important? For students, confidence helps them try new things, speak up in class, and handle challenges. It allows them to take risks and learn from mistakes. Later in life, this same confidence helps them thrive in the workplace. They’ll be able to communicate well, lead projects, and adapt to change. When they become parents, confidence allows them to guide their own children with strength and assurance. Confidence carries over into every stage of life.

At Milchel, we believe in these 5 Key Traits: Awareness, Discipline, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Confidence. These values guide everything we do. Confidence is one of our Key Traits because we believe it’s essential to a child’s growth. When a child believes in themselves, they unlock their full potential.

One of our main confidence-building activities is Indulge. In this program, students plan and carry out activities on their own. They brainstorm, organise meetings, manage logistics, create posters, make announcements, and run the event. Afterward, they meet to reflect on what went well and what they can improve. They all start at the same level, so no one feels left out. This helps them feel safe to try, fail, learn, and try again. It’s hands-on, it’s student-led, and it works. These real experiences are also supported by occasional guidance talks and structured teaching sessions.

Confidence also grows through academics. At Milchel, students regularly set their own targets. When they work hard and start reaching those goals—bit by bit—their self-confidence grows. Small wins matter. Every completed assignment, every improved grade, every step forward tells them, “I can do this.” This mindset fuels their motivation and builds a deeper belief in their own abilities.

In summary, Milchel builds confidence in many ways. Through values education, group activities, target-setting, and everyday wins, our students develop self-belief that lasts. Confidence doesn’t happen overnight. But here at Milchel, students learn to trust themselves—one experience at a time.

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How to Inspire Children to Pursue Their Passions and Interests

While academics are essential in a child’s life, their world should not revolve around school alone. From toddlerhood, children show early signs of interest—whether in sports, music, arts, or other activities beyond books. Others may discover their passions later. No matter when these interests appear, it’s important for us as parents to notice them and offer support in any way we can.

So, what kind of support can we give to inspire them? If your child loves sports, enrol them in lessons. Buy them the proper gear. Watch games together. Introduce them to other kids who share the same passion. This not only boosts their motivation but also builds early connections.

If your child leans toward the arts, find them a good teacher. Provide quality art materials. Bring them to galleries or art fairs. Encourage them to express themselves freely.

For children who love music, hire a vocal coach or music teacher. Let them join singing groups or bands. Play music at home. Let them explore different genres. Talent alone isn’t enough. Children need training, guidance, and exposure to grow.

If their interests are in science, computers, or other fields, do your research. Look for workshops, online courses, clubs, or mentors. There are many ways to nurture their curiosity.

Even if their interests differ from ours, we must accept that our children are not our clones. It’s okay if they choose a different path. What matters is that they show passion and potential. Our job is to encourage and support them.

In summary, supporting children’s passions means being present, investing time, and providing the right tools and exposure. School and personal interests can go hand in hand. Both can help build a more balanced, confident, and well-rounded individual. As they grow, guide them in managing their time and setting priorities. With our support, they can pursue their dreams without losing sight of their education—and become the best versions of themselves.

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What Students Learn While Staying at Milchel

At Milchel, we care for students in every aspect of their development—physical, academic, and character. We go far beyond simply providing a place to stay. Milchelians, as we fondly call them, grow into responsible, balanced, and purpose-driven individuals.

Physical care

We provide physical care by giving students a clean and safe place to live. We serve them healthy, nutritious meals daily. Our team encourages them to build habits that support well-being. They learn to shower regularly, eat healthily, and stay active instead of being sedentary. These routines help them build a foundation for lifelong wellness.

Academic Care

We also support academic growth and offer a quiet and focused study environment. We guide students in setting academic goals and planning their studies. They learn to organise tasks and manage their time. When needed, we provide tutorial support. In the process, Milchelians learn to take charge of their learning journey.

Character Care

What truly sets Milchel apart is our commitment to character development. From primary to tertiary levels, all students join programs that build values and integrity. These activities match their age and stage in life. Character-building isn’t a side effort—it’s at the core of everything we do.

Our values form the heart of Milchel. These seven core principles spell out MILCHEL: Magnanimous, Integrity, Loving-kindness, Compassionate, Holistic living, Effort, and Leadership. To help students live out these values, we develop five key traits in them: Awareness, Discipline, Responsibility, Perseverance, and Confidence.

We do this through daily teaching, guidance talks, group games, and shared experiences. These activities shape character in simple, meaningful ways.

At Milchel, we believe academic success isn’t enough. Our true mission is to raise principled individuals—students who leave not only with knowledge, but with strong character.

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The Role of Technology in Enhancing Children’s Learning Experiences

Many parents have plenty of concerns about the harms of technology on our children. And this worry is warranted. It’s really a scary world out there—from online bullying and AI that’s everywhere, to distracting online games, social media, and harmful individuals hiding behind screens—parents are right to be worried.

One of the biggest concerns parents have is how technology disrupts students’ learning. However, this should not always be the case. Technology is a double-edged sword, and if our kids know how to protect themselves from its dangers, they can use its advances to their advantage—especially when it comes to learning. Here are some ways:

Access to a World of Knowledge

The internet has placed an endless amount of information at our children’s fingertips. Educational platforms, e-books, online courses, and even free documentaries allow them to explore subjects beyond their school curriculum. Whether they want to learn a new language, explore science experiments, or study history, technology provides resources that make learning more engaging and self-directed.

Interactive and Personalized Learning

Unlike traditional learning methods, technology enables interactive learning experiences through educational apps, games, and simulations. Many platforms also adapt to a child’s pace, providing personalized lessons based on their strengths and weaknesses. This helps children grasp concepts better and stay motivated in their studies.

Enhancing Creativity and Critical Thinking

Many digital tools encourage creativity, from music and art apps to coding platforms and video editing software. Technology allows children to create, experiment, and problem-solve, helping them develop critical thinking skills that will be useful in their academic and future careers.

In closing, technology is neither inherently good nor bad—it depends on how it is used. While there are legitimate concerns about its negative impact, we must also recognize its potential to enrich learning. By guiding our children to use technology responsibly and purposefully, we can help them unlock opportunities that enhance their education, creativity, and critical thinking. Instead of fearing technology, we should equip our children to use it wisely and to their advantage.