bright kids - 07 october 2014

THE STAR Tuesday 7 October 2014

Creating well-rounded students > 4 Going beyond the classroom > 11

Growing the nation

StarSpecial

2 BRIGHT KIDS StarSpecial, Tuesday 7 October 2014

Empowering young minds holisticallySINCE its inception more than 20 years ago, Q-dees has grown from strength to strength, becoming one of the most recognisable names in early childhood development and preschool education in Malaysia.

With more than 140 centres nationwide, Q-dees’ preschool holistic educational experience is known for providing cutting-edge programmes.

There are three programmes that are incorporated into the Preschool syllabus – Fliptec@Q, Beamind Foundation and Q-dees Love to Life.

Each programme focuses on a specific area to provide a holistic educational approach to empower young minds and to build a foundation for a child to grow exponentially.

These programmes have been specifically formulated through innovative and dynamic research, which is globally benchmarked and spearheaded by Q-dees’ R&D centre at Cyberjaya.

Fliptec@Q utilises the Focus Learning Imaginative Play technology, which is highly effective to motivate learning, concentration, recall and understanding.

Beamind Foundation is designed to stimulate intelligence by empowering creative and logical thinking as well as enhancing language proficiency.

Q-dees Love to Life is a programme that aspires to nurture and promote love, kindness and other essential moral values.

These customised and highly effective teaching tools have been developed to make learning fun

through song, dance, animation, rhymes, poems and stories.

This enables a greater range of learning every day, a higher rate of absorption, improves attentiveness and enhances the ability of application of lessons learnt in the classroom into their daily activities.

Mastering three languages

The ability to communicate

articulately is one of the most essential soft skills today.

Mastering more than one language is equally essential not only because Malaysians live in a melting pot of cultures and languages but also because of the effects of globalisation on societal, cultural and communal interactions.

The Fliptec@Q and Beamind Foundation programmes are geared to enable students to master English, Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin. The lessons are set out uniquely to promote proficiency through practice.

Empowerment through innovation

With the speed at which technology is evolving today, having your child experience it first hand at an early age will prove to be an advantage and it will serve to enhance his learning skills.

As children tend to have short attention spans, the inclusion of colourful visuals and appealing

Q-dees students are confident, creative and caring.

audio through multimedia facilities and animation into the lessons strongly engages the children and promotes amplified interaction during each lesson.

The revolutionarye-Reader programme

A distinct programme offered under the Beamind Foundation programme is e-Readers. It has been highly successful in instilling a reading culture among children from as young as three years old.

The e-Reader books are developed meticulously and are graded with a controlled vocabulary to maximise word identification and fluency.

Q-dees’ commitment to its children has never been stronger and it continues to strive to deliver the best, meeting both international standards of education while nurturing values that empower lifelong education.

n For more information,call 1700 815 077 or visitwww.q-dees.com

Investing in educationBy ANUSHIA KANDASIVAM

PRIMARY education is compulsory in Malaysia – this is law, set out in the Malaysia

Education Act 1996. This means that every child of

a Malaysian citizen has to attend school once he or she has reached the age of seven on the first day of January of the current school year.

It is safe to say that almost every eligible child in the country attends primary school.

According to Unicef statistics, the primary school participation survival rate to the last primary grade in Malaysia was 99.2% from 2008 to 2012.

Statistics of secondary school participation from the same timeframe indicates that 66.1% of male students and 71.3% of female students continue from their primary education and enrol in

secondary schools.Though these numbers are far

from the 100% that any nation would like to possess, they are nevertheless promising as they indicate an increased participation in non-compulsory education.

Quantityvs quality

According to the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, research shows that Malaysia has done relatively well in the past 50 years in expanding access to education and raising adult literacy rates and participation in schooling.

Participation in schooling is obviously vital for building an effective workforce, but studies have shown that quantity of education – the number of schools and amount of resources available

to students – in developing countries such as Malaysia is usually better than the quality of education available.

A study by the World Bank on the correlation between education quality and economic growth found that the quality of education has substantial effects on individual earnings, on the distribution of income and on overall economic growth.

The study further states that just providing more resources to schools is unlikely to be successful in improving quality of the available education; instead, a reform of the education system is needed.

It seems then that Malaysia’s aspirations of economic growth leading to it achieving high-income nation status relies heavily on the quality of the education available in the country.

Improving outcomes

It is a widely recognised fact that the quality of the international education available in Malaysia is better than the education offered by the national system.

One of the aspirations the government has for the national education system and the students in it is to improve the quality of national education so that it is comparable to the best international systems and to give Malaysian children the opportunity to attain a uniquely Malaysian education that is of excellent quality.

This is Shift 1 of the 11 shifts identified in the Blueprint to transform the national education system.

As part of this initiative, there are plans to revamp the national examinations and school-based assessments to gradually increase the percentage of questions that test higher-order thinking to train students to think critically and apply knowledge.

Shift 10 is maximising student outcomes for every ringgit spent on education, which includes reallocating funding to the most critical areas such as teacher training and upskilling.

All this is aimed at improving student outcomes, which in turn will impact the workforce and eventually, economic growth.

The right investment

In 2011, about 16% of Malaysia’s annual federal budget was spent on education, the largest portion

among all the ministries. As a share of the country’s GDP,

Malaysia’s education budget is one of the largest in the world. In last year’s announcement of the Budget 2014, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said that the education sector was allocated RM54.6bil that is 21% of the budget.

According to the Blueprint, this significant investment indicates the government’s commitment to education.

This it certainly does, but such investment must be channelled into the right sectors and spent efficiently to be truly effective.

The World Bank study found that simple physical expansion of the educational facilities and increased spending per student generally do not seem to lead to substantial increases of student competencies and learning achievement.

Although some investment of this kind is certainly productive – there are minimal levels of key resources required to promote student learning and improve the quality of education students receive – one of the most important factors leading to improvement of educational quality is instead the quality of the teachers in the classroom.

The government plans to reallocate funding that has been freed up through efficient spending to teacher training and upskilling – an initial RM1bil in operational expenditure for the period of 2013-2015 was identified for saving and reallocation.

The results of these reforms will not be seen for years to come as the first few cohorts of new graduates that have gone through the still-evolving education system will make up just a small part of the country’s whole labour force.

It can be conjectured that within 10 years, the quality of education should have improved sufficiently that graduates who have been through the system would be able to contribute enough to the economy to enable Malaysia to achieve it’s developed nation status goal.

The government plans to reallocate funding that has been freed up through efficient spending to teacher training and upskilling.

StarSpecial, Tuesday 7 October 2014 BRIGHT KIDS 3

Nutrition information

Serving size: 2 pieces (50g)

Serving per package: 4

Nutrients

Energy

Carbohydrate

Protein

Per 100g

230kcal (966kJ)

32.0g

8.0g

Per serving

115kcal (483kJ)

16.0g

4.0g

Fat 8.0g 4.0g

A guide to food labelsFOOD labels reveal the brand,

markings, graphics or other written or printed statistics

on food packaging. Food labels help you make the

right choice of healthier foods by reading the information printed on them.

By reading food labels, you will be able to differentiate the contents of foods from the various brands available in the market. You will also able to know how high or low a food’s nutrient content is.

The list of information on a food label include the food information panel, food claims, list of ingredients, marking date and information on the manufacturer or distributor.

Food informationpanel

The food information panel shows the amount of energy and the list of nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein and fat contained in a product.

Most packaged food will list the energy, carbohydrate, protein and fat content and sometimes the vitamin and mineral content as well.

The columns in the second row show the amount of energy and nutrient content in every 100g (if the product is in solid form) or in every 100ml (if the product is in liquid form).

In the example below, every 100g of this product has 230kcal of energy, 32g of carbohydrates, 8g of protein and 8g of fat.

The columns in the third row show the amount of energy and nutrient content in every serving of the product. In the table below, every serving that equals to two pieces (50g) of this product has 115kcal of energy, 16g of carbohydrates, 4g of protein and 4g of fat.

If you were to consume two servings of the product (four pieces), your energy and nutrient content would be doubled.

Food claims

A food claim is any type of claim made on food labels about the quality of the product.

You will find claims such as “fat-free”, “high in vitamin C” or “less sugar” on products that have met the criteria to make such claims.

The types of claims and explanations can be summarised as follows:

Type of claim Keywords Explanation

Nutrient content claim • Low• Free/zero/no

Example: Low fat, sugar free

• Source• High/rich

Example: Source of protein, high in calcium

For nutrients that are said to be detrimental to health if consumed in excess such as fat, salt and sugar.

Nutrient comparison claim • Reduced• Less/light

Example: Less sodium

For new formulations of a product where the quantity a certain nutrient that is not beneficial for health is reduced compared to the initial formulation.

Nutrient function claim Only the list of claims permitted underthe Food Regulations 1985 by certainconditions, which involves:• classic nutrient functions such asprotein, vitamins and minerals

Example: Calcium helps the growthof strong bones and teeth.

• Other components that have beenidentified such as lutein, beta-glucan,plant sterol, sialic acid and so on.

Example: Beta-glucan from oats helpslower cholesterol levels.

Claims describing the role of specific nutrients in the normal function of the body based on development and scientific evidence.

Claim does not imply that nutrients can treat, cure or protect against certain diseases.

• More/extra• Increased

Example: Increased calcium

For new formulations of a product where the quantity of a certain nutrient that is beneficial for health is increased compared to the initial formulation.

For nutrients that are beneficial for health such as protein, vitamins or minerals.

List of ingredients

Reading the list of ingredients on food labels is the best way to identify the contents of packaged products.

The list of ingredients will also alert you on ingredients that you may be allergic to.

Here is some information that you will be able to derive from the list of ingredients:l All food labels list down their

ingredients based on weight. The ingredient with the highest content will be listed first.l Beware of sugar additives that may be listed as sucrose, maltose, dextrose, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, honey and maple syrup.l Food products that contain additives need to state the type of additive included in the product such as preservatives, colouring, artificial flavourings, flavour

enhancers and permitted food conditioners.l The list of ingredients is also a good way for you to determine the right nutrients that your body needs. For example, if you have a history of heart disease, you will need to look out for ingredients such as olives, corn or or wholegrains.

Marking date

The Food Regulations 1985 makes it compulsory for perishables such as baby formula, milk, milk products, biscuits, bread, cereals, pasteurised fruit and vegetables juices to have a marking date.

Marking dates are usually in the following forms:l Expiry datel Use beforel Eat beforel Drink beforel Best before

Before you make your purchase, ensure that the product is not too close to its expiry date. This applies especially to products that are on sale.

As a consumer you have to always be mindful of the marking date on products as consuming expired food products can compromise your health.

Information on the manufacturer or distributor

This information will let you know if the product was manufactured locally or overseas. It will also provide you with more information on the manufacturer or distributor.

Food claims.

Food information panel.

High in iron

High in calcium

Vitamin A, C and E

Ingredients:Cereals (wheat, rice, corn),skim milk powder, sugar,vitamin, salt.

Food information panel

Serving size: 28gNumber of serving per package: 18

Averagecomposition

Every100g

Every serving(28g)

Energy (kcal)Carbohydrate (g)Fat (g)Protein (g)Sugar (g)Fibre (g)

36567.01.216.137.84.1

10218.80.34.510.61.1

Best before: 12.08.2020

It is important to read food labels when buying packaged food.


Students should have a balance between academics and activities that take place outside the classroom.

At UCSI International School, students get to develop various skills such as researching, self-managing and thinking skills.

Creating well-rounded studentsTHE Middle Years Programme

(MYP), an International Baccalaureate (IB)

programme, is offered at UCSI International School located in the picturesque town of Bandar Springhill, Negri Sembilan.

With IB programmes and full boarding opportunities, the school is a premier IB World School.

The MYP provides students with a holistic education. The concept-based, academically rigorous curriculum is complemented by the MYP’s Service as Action Programme, Personal Projects and the school’s After School Programme.

The reflective approach of the MYP extends learning opportunities to all students.

l Boarding experienceand facilitiesUCSI International School offers

its students the full boarding experience, which teaches them to be independent.

Communal living also fosters camaraderie and teamwork among the students.

The school boasts a number of state-of-the-art facilities, including projectors, computers, computer labs, a two-storey library and a multi-purpose hall.l Service as ActionThe Service as Action

Programme is an integral part of MYP and presents authentic opportunities for all students to engage with the community. The

focus of the programme is service with others and not for others.

During the course of the programme, students develop the ability to design and implement their own community service projects.

In addition to these community service activities, students in Grades 8 and 10 conduct two major projects as part of the Service as Action Programme.

Grade 8 students, together with their teacher, develop and implement a plan to address a need in the local community.In Grade 10, students complete a collaborative project that involves both service and action in the wider Malaysian area.

In pairs, Grade 10 students

implement a plan to address a community need of their choice. The plan is implemented over the course of the academic year with an advisor to guide and support the students.l Personal ProjectIn addition to the curriculum

and Service as Action Programme, students in Grade 10 of the MYP undertake a Personal Project.

For this project, students select a topic of interest to them and apply their classroom learning to the real world. This is an independent project guided by a teacher advisor.l Interdisciplinary learningWhile students study distinct

academic disciplines, intentional links to other disciplines are

explicitly made. As such, the MYP reflects the complexity of our world.lInquiry-based learningInquiry-based learning

supports and guides students as they learn how to learn. As such, inquiry-based learning allows for individual differentiation according to strengths and areas for growth.l Concept-based learningConceptual learning, as

opposed to learning content, encourages students to become adept problem solvers and thinkers.l Skills developmentA hallmark feature of the

MYP, Approaches to Learning are essential skills mapped throughout the curriculum. The skillsets include communicating, socialising, researching, self-

managing and thinking.l Leading learningThe school hires teachers who

are highly qualified professionals. As facilitators, guides and mentors, the teachers connect with the students.

With this connection, students are supported as they develop to their full potential.l Combining the bestAs an IB World School,

UCSI International School is proud to offer the Middle Years Programme.

It combines an exceptional programme with exceptional teachers – it is a premier IB World School.

n For more information,call 06-653 6888 or e-mail [email protected]


A good head startPARENTS always want to give their

children the best when it comes to education.

Cambridge English For Life (CEFL) understands the importance of early childhood education and so gives young learners a strong foundation through the Young Learners English Course.

There are two main levels of proficiency, namely Junior English 1 for ages three to four and Junior English 2 for ages five to six.

This content-rich and comprehensive course is the adaptation of a carefully planned syllabus that encourages effective language learning through the development of phonic skills, phonemic awareness, comprehension and early literacy skills.

This encourages young learners to become fluent and lifelong users of the English language.

CEFL teachers undergo regular training sessions to refresh their skills and keep up to date with the latest teaching methodology.

A student-centred approach that encourages active participation in every lesson is implemented to develop speaking skills. This is achieved through chants, songs, rhymes, games, flashcards and other methods that encourage communication.

Reading and writing are taught through phonics as this is the most effective method of teaching young learners to accomplish these skills.

Simple texts are used to help young learners put the language they are beginning to acquire into context.

Finally, to improve their listening skills, young learners are exposed to the sound of native English through audio clips of songs, stories and dialogue.

The Total Physical Response (TPR) approach is used to get the young learners to follow instructions, mime a song or rhyme and role play.

Before young learners join a class, they have to take an assessment of readiness to test their proficiency to be appropriately placed in either Junior English Level 1 or 2.

CEFL does not believe in formal tests for young learners but regular assessments are performed and progress checks are made to assess their progress at their particular level.

These are done after each unit in the middle of the year, with a final assessment at the end of the year.

The teacher’s also observe the young learners to ensure the latter’s understanding of the material taught to them and ascertain if they are ready to progress to the next level.

n For more information, visitwww.cambridgeforlife.org

Young learners at Cambridge English For Life will gain a good foundation for the English language.


Epsom College in Malaysia welcomed 150 students for its inaugural intake.

A successful new beginningEPSOM College in Malaysia (ECiM) officially started its classes on Sept 2. A branch

campus of the esteemed 159-year-old Epsom College in the UK, the British curriculum international school welcomed 150 students for its inaugural intake.

The numbers are growing everyday, following rave reviews from its founding student families about the school’s impressive facilities and experienced British academic faculty.

The school’s management and founding team led by its headmaster, Martin George, were delighted at the school’s successful first day, which came to fruition after three years of dedication and hard work by the team.

“The passion and relentless dedication of our team has brought the school to this day. With this, I would also like to thank all our founding students’ family who have entrusted us with their child’s education. It will be the best decision they have ever made,” says George.

The vision of the school was brought to life by its Old Epsomian

and Malaysia Campus Board of Governors Chairman Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes. Excitement and joy were clearly visible on the faces of its founding students who marvelled at the top academic and boarding facilities made available to them at the school’s vast 50-acre (20.2ha) campus.

Suchi Chai, who is currently in Year 12 in ECiM, says, “Studying here is like studying in Hogwarts from the Harry Potter series. I love the boarding experience I am getting here. Classes are great and I have been making many new friends and learning to play new games such as touch rugby.”

Many parents were also seen at the parents’ lounge chatting with heads of faculty and teachers on the first day.

On hand to talk with the parents was Lim Kian Onn, a member of the school’s Board of

Governors who was also visiting the school on its first schooling day.

With the first term underway and preparations being made for the school’s January 2015 intake, this will be the first of many more successful stories to come for Epsom College in Malaysia.

Epsom College in Malaysia is hosting its Open Day on Oct 11 from 10am to 5pm.

n For more information, call 03-6211 4488, e-mail [email protected] or www.epsomcollege.edu.my

STRATEGICALLY located in Bandar Enstek, an hour south of Kuala Lumpur, Epsom College in Malaysia is a 15-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and KLIA2. This 50-acre development is Epsom’s first overseas campus.

Steeped in more than 150 years of rich UK heritage, Epsom College in Malaysia (ECiM) offers students a first-class British educational experience. Following the new English National Curriculum, including the Cambridge International Examination Board’s IGCSEs and A-Levels (CIE), ECiM aims to mirror the academic excellence of Epsom College in the UK that consistently achieves an 84% of A-Levels grades at A*, A or B grade.

The Epsom College vision embraces the personal development of each student through innovation and creativity to achieve academic excellence, developing a love for learning and helping students secure places at the world’s top universities.

About Epsom College in Malaysia (ECiM)

Classes at Epsom College in Malaysia officially started last month.


Nickie Yew, co-owner and director of Mint Communications.

Penang to host education fairPENANG has some of the earliest established schools in the country. Currently, Penang boasts nine international schools that attract students from all over the world, paving the way to a rich and diverse cultural experience for both local and international students.

As an advocate for international education as well as in support of Penang’s efforts in fostering a knowledge-based economy, Mint Communications initiated the first Penang Private & International School Fair in 2012.

The event attracted families not only from the surrounding states but from other countries as well, including the Philippines, the United States and Singapore.

This year will mark the third instalment of Mint Communications’ Penang-based international education fair.

“Extending our fairs from Kuala Lumpur to Penang was a

very natural move for us, as the state holds potential to become an education hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

“We want to contribute towards both Penang and

Malaysia’s aspirations of

developing a world-class, skill-driven

economy,” says Nickie Yew, co-owner and director of Mint Communications.

Admission is free and visitors will be able to meet with school representatives, including principals and teachers, which will allow them to compare schools and curricula to ultimately find a suitable school for their children.

Schools participating in the upcoming event include Epsom College in Malaysia, Fairview International School, GEMS International School of Pearl City, International School of Penang (Uplands), Kolej Yayasan Saad Melaka, Kolej Yayasan UEM, Nilai International School, Pelita International School, Prince of Wales Island International School, Straits International School and Tenby Schools.

Sponsors for the event are Chocolate Passion, HSBC Amanah, Promethean World and MPH Bookstores.

Visitors will also be able to get a copy of Education Destination Malaysia, a comprehensive guidebook that showcases the full spectrum of international schools in Malaysia as well as instructional articles by education experts at a discounted price.

Event details: 3rd Private & InternationalSchool Fair PenangDate : October 12Time : Noon to 5pmVenue : Traders Hotel,Georgetown, Penang

n For more information, [email protected] visitwww.PrivateInternationalSchoolFair.com

An outstandingachievementTHE recently announced IB Diploma

results at Nexus International School represent an outstanding achievement

for its learners. The school’s first cohort of IB learners consisted of 23 students, 20 of whom entered for the full diploma.

In total, the learners achieved an 80% pass rate, which is comparable to the IB Diploma world average of 79%. The average point score for all learners was 31.25 and 36 points for all those students who attained a full diploma.

Five Nexus students achieved 40 points or above; this representing 25% of the cohort. The highest scoring learner at Nexus achieved an outstanding 43 points out of a

possible total of 45. Learners at Nexus have all gained

entrance to top universities across the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States and Australia.

Nexus International School would like to congratulate all its students and teachers for their hard work and effort.

The current Year 13 cohort consists of 41 learners with 36 students enrolled into the new Year 12. Registration is still open for the few final spots in this group although most other year groups are now full.

n For more information, visitwww.nexus.edu.my

The IB Diploma programme is designed to equip learners with one of the best foundations possible for entry into the world’s top universities.


Mealtimes can be a major challenge for many parents.

Scholarships for top scorersNILAI International School (NIS) has opened its scholarship applications for students entering Year 7 and Year 10.

With the motto Let Your Light Shine, the scholarships at NIS are dedicated to students who have shown exemplary academic performance and a solid co-curricular track record.

There are three types of scholarships that students can apply for. The High Achievers Scholarship promises a full tuition waiver for the entire study duration at NIS.

This is provided the student upholds the academic, co-curricular and disciplinary standards set by the school.

The Merit Scholarship provides a 50%

waiver for tuition. The Enrichment for Life award gives

students entering Year 7 or Year 10 a waiver of RM1,000 per term for a duration of three terms at NIS.

Forecast results for UPSR and PT3 are accepted for scholarship applications. Students have the option of selecting the following intake dates for the scholarship: • Jan 5, 2015 • Apr 20, 2015

The scholarship application deadline is on Nov 28.

n For more information, call 06-850 2188, or e-mail [email protected] or visitwww.nis.edu.my

Nilai International School prepares its students to excel in life.

Essential nutrients for growthCONVINCING your child to eat may be

one of the most difficult challenges for parents. After all, parents must

ensure that their children receive adequate nutrients from their meals for them to grow.

This is not as easy as it sounds, as children often exhibit different preferences and temperaments during mealtimes. It is therefore important for parents to pay attention to their children’s eating habits and understand them to avoid negative health consequences.

These are a few feeding issues faced by parents:l The child who accepts very few foods

• Eats only a limited selection of food (for example, only white foods such as rice, noodles and bread)• Refuses to eat foods that have a particular taste, texture, smell, temperature or appearance• Shows signs of nervousness when asked to eat foods with characteristics that he dislikesl The active child who is rarely hungry

• Constantly runs around, is curious about many things and hardly sits still for proper meals• Much more likely to show very little appetite and feels full after only two or

three bites• Is easily distracted from meals, preferring to play with his toys or siblingsl The child who is afraid of eating

• Shows a strong resistance to any attempts to get him to eat• Cries, pushes away food and refuses to open his mouth when offered food• May even cry at the mere sight of feeding or eating items such as a bottle, spoon or bowl• Could be due to a past traumatic event, including choking, gagging or vomiting• May also be due to a medical condition

that involved the insertion of tubes through the mouth and throat

Is your child getting all he needs?

Toddlers aged one to three require adequate amounts of macronutrients (including carbohydrate, protein, fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals).

Studies have shown that children with feeding difficulties consume less than 50% of their recommended daily intake of energy and nutrients.

A child who has a balanced diet is more than likely to meet these nutritional requirements. However, picky eaters tend to get less nutrition than they need as their diet does not comprise all food groups.

Some children who are extremely selective may even lack important vitamins and minerals that are essential for optimal growth and development.

The right type of nutritional support can help your picky eater meet all the requirements needed for optimal growth and development.

In general, there are two types of supplementation:l Vitamin/mineral supplementation

• Generally contains one or a combination of micronutrients• Major components of the diet such as carbohydrate, protein and fat (macronutrients) are usually not present• Available in pill or syrup form• Usually helps to address a specific type of nutrient deficiency, for example, iron or calcium deficiencyl Complete nutritional

supplementation• Contains micro and macronutrients (such as calcium, iron, carbohydrate, protein, fat, fibre, AA, DHA and other vitamins and minerals) in the correct amounts

particularly for children• Beneficial for picky eaters who often refuse to eat most types of foods and miss out on most of the essential nutrients• The effectiveness of certain types of complete child nutritional supplements was tested in more than 20 clinical studies

A complete child nutritional supplement such as PediaSure Complete can fill in the nutrition gaps every day while you work to overcome the child’s picky eating.

Complete nutritional supplementation helps give your child all the necessary nutrients required for optimal growth and development as well as prevents developmental and nutrient deficiency problems that may arise from malnutrition.

n For more information, call 1800 886 233 (Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm).

Children need the adequate

amount of nutrients to

grow.


Experiential learningKRISTA believes that early childhood is a crucial stage of a child’s development. As such, Krista provides opportunities for children in early childhood years to develop holistically through well-planned programmes and extra-curricular activities that contribute to their overall development and success.

Krista’s CAPABLE Programme, an all-encompassing programme conducted in centres nationwide, focuses on four segments – individuality, the effective acquisition of knowledge, character building and competency.

The programme combines aspects of intelligence and adds value to create the “CAPABLE Krista Kid”.

Krista books and teaching materials have been prepared with this concept in mind and are tailored according to the various learning stages.

At Krista, children at the age of three are introduced to the path of learning and experience in an enjoyable way using its Fun book series.

The four-year-olds start becoming curious and Krista provides the opportunity for them to discover the world around them through its Discovering book series.

At the age of five when they start to ask questions, Krista leads them to explore things through the Exploring book

series before they progress to the Study book series at the age of six, which prepares children for a smooth transition to primary school education.

The Krista CAPABLE Programme is supported by Krista’s day-to-day teachers’ guide, Krista workbooks, trained principals and teachers, fun and enjoyable extra-curricular activities and the use of themes and Montessori methods.

Another in-house computer programme, the Krista e-Discovery Programme, focuses on a combination of logical, linguistic, visual as well as musical intelligence that supports the academic curriculum and gives children useful IT exposure through multimedia approaches.

Krista also values a close partnership with parents as their support, understanding, commitment and involvement contributes greatly to children’s development.

Krista also believes in building up children’s self-esteem and confidence, inculcating good values and discipline, stimulating and sustaining children’s interest in learning new things while developing thinking, cognitive, literacy and social skills.

n For more information,call 03-2141 7575,e-mail [email protected] or visit www.krista.com.my

Krista kids take a hands-on approach in gaining practical life experiences.

Shurouq Masoud with her daughters, Minna and Janna.

The smart way to develop young mindsSMART Reader Kids centres

across the nation are led by experienced educators.

With assistance from warm and friendly staff, the Smart Reader Kids programme engages children to discover the joys of learning and develop their character through play-based activities.

According to Hayati Mohd Yusoff and Raja Ahmad Muzamir, their daughter, six-year-old Raja Mariam Mishael, used to be quiet and was quite reluctant to go to school.

After attending Smart Reader Kids Taman Persiaran Desa, Kuala Lumpur, Mariam has learned to express herself better and enjoys spending time in school.

Chandran Raman Kutty and

Geeta Ann Sulamuthu say that the Smart Reader Kids programme has helped their children, five-year-old Dhiveish Chandran and Diya Jaszmiin Chandran, in developing their academic, social and interpersonal skills.

“Our friends strongly recommended Smart Reader Kids to us. We made the decision to enrol our children at Smart Reader Kids Taman Mount Austin, Johor Baru, upon hearing about their children’s good grades and seamless transition from pre-school to primary school,” says Chandran.

As a foreigner, Shurouq Masoud focused on finding a pre-school that offers a comprehensive and well-balanced English curriculum.

She eventually chose to enrol her daughters, five-year-old Minna and Janna, at Smart Reader Kids Medan Idaman, Kuala Lumpur.

“In the beginning, Minna and Janna could not read or speak English properly. However, after going through the Smart Reader Kids programme, I am happy that they have progressed tremendously,” says Shurouq.

Parents who would like to enquire about the various Smart Reader Kids programmes are invited to attend the Smart Reader Kids Nationwide Open Day onOct 11 from 2pm to 6pm.

In an effort to add even more value to existing students, Smart Reader Worldwide launched two new programmes last month.

With classes held in the afternoon, the Smart Reader Kids Intensive English programme places greater emphasis on reading, writing, vocabulary

development, spelling, communication and public speaking.

These skills enable children to build their confidence and enhance their verbal expression, fluency and articulation.

The Smart Funplay programme is designed especially for children aged three and above.

The programme is beneficial for children as it develops their hand-eye coordination, language, cognitive and social skills through their interaction with Bobo the Bear.

n For more information,call 1300 885 555 or visit www.smartreaderkids.edu.my orwww.smartreader.edu.my


Committed to student growthRAFFLESIA International School began

a new academic year last month, to mark its second year as a provider

of excellent education for local and international students.

The strong foundation of holistic education established in the past year, guided by the intention of nurturing the success of students, will continue.

Rafflesia strives to improve this process further with an increased involvement of parents in the educational process, working hand-in-hand to consolidate the partnership between home and school.

All stakeholders must be invested in student growth.

In this endeavour, it is important to remember that education does not only

happen at school but also intricately within the life of a student.

Whether students are at home, in the school environment or engaging in co-curricular and community activities, they are always learning.

At the beginning of each year, all these participants have important roles to play.

For students, it is important that they arrive with the correct attitude.

They need to arrive at school well rested, healthy and fit from their holiday exercise and full of good, nutritious food.

It may sound obvious, but if students cannot arrive at school with their bodies in shape, they cannot start with their minds attuned.

For parents, the main responsibility is to help their children arrive at school free of stress. This means that they come smartly dressed in their uniforms, with the right books, the necessary stationery and all forms and permission slips completed and submitted.

For the school, it is imperative that it supports the parents and students in providing all the necessary assistance.

Orientation weeks, regular pre-commencement communications and both informal and formal forums all go a long way in making sure families feel well armed with all the information needed to make a successful start to the academic year.

n For more information, visitwww.rafflesia.edu.my

Parents and teachers engaged in a discussion at the Rafflesia International School.

Fun English programmes for the holidaysAS the Malaysian school year draws to a close, many students are looking forward to the holidays. However, after a long break, there is always some catching up to do as students are trying to settle back into their studies when school commences.

Morris Allen English believes that learning should never end and it should be fun. This is the reason the Morris Allen English Holiday Programme was developed. The programme consists of a range of short courses that are designed to develop the English language skills of students in a fun and interactive learning environment.

The two-week holiday programme consists of several nine-lesson short courses that include fun activities following the Morris Allen English interactive approach. The range of short courses focuses on different English language skills.

The Speech and Drama course at Morris Allen English is back by popular demand. The focus of this course is to enhance speaking skills and build personal confidence. In this course, students will be involved in fun speaking and role-playing exercises, oral reading and speech presentations with guidance from Morris Allen English’s trained teachers who are all

native English speakers. Morris Allen English also has a range

of new courses that incorporates reading of children’s literature and development of writing skills. Students discover the wonders of reading as they will read and build on their comprehension and vocabulary skills while being involved in interactive learning activities.

Morris Allen English understands that laying good foundations for learning English must begin early, so there are short courses for younger students in this holiday programme. These include Pre-Nursery and Phonics, which are enjoyable, interactive courses aimed specifically at developing a love for learning in younger children.

Morris Allen English blends learning with fun so that learning does not have to stop just because it is holiday time.

Keeping young brains active by taking part in the Morris Allen English Holiday Programme is a great way for children to build stronger English skills for the start of their 2015 school year.

n For more information, call 03-7880 3169 or e-mail [email protected]

The holiday programmes at Morris Allen English are fun and interactive.


Going beyond the classroomSTUDENTS need an outlet for

their energy and creative expression and deserve an

occasional break from books, classes and exams.

There are benefits of carrying out activities outside the classroom. They create an individual who recognises the importance of having both academic excellence and social aptitude.

Sunway International School (SIS) keeps its students active and enthusiastic by offering a vibrant line-up of activities for students to participate in, including activities that serve students’ social development as well as clubs and societies that build on their interest.

Activities geared towards student development such as Career Week and Anti-Bullying Week emphasise lessons beyond a classroom’s regular lesson plan.

These events serve to raise awareness of current and social issues, inspire students to be responsive, challenge them to set goals and plan the steps to achieve their dreams.

Career Week, for example, gave students the chance to engage in question-and-answer sessions with guest speakers where they got to absorb useful tips from presentations that gave them valuable insight into professions of various industries.

They will be able to leverage on this opportunity to explore career options, be inspired by professionals to attain their desired career or spark an interest in areas that they have never considered before.

Activities outside the classroom can be a wellspring of opportunities for character development and moral support.

For example, Anti-Bullying Week helps students understand the devastating impact of bullying and establish a feeling of security and community by sharing positive messages.

Students also pledge to refrain from bullying and aggressive behaviour as part of the anti-bullying initiative.

SIS’ plethora of clubs and societies is another avenue for students to come together with like-minded people in pursuit of a common interest.

The extra-curricular activities such as athletic, artistic or volunteer programmes encourage students to get involved and engage with other students.

SIS students venture beyond their comfort zones, not shying away from big tasks such as making a presentation on eradicating poverty in Cambodia, which won them third place in the Youth Parliament at the World Marketing Summit 2013.

They also face formidable veteran schools at the Asia-Pacific level of The International History Bee and Bowl 2014, winning the

right to represent Malaysia by becoming champions at the national level.

Participation in these activities cultivates and teaches essential skills such as time management from prioritising school work and club activities.

Students also learn responsibility through volunteering at a tree-planting project for the community, and teamwork in learning how to give and take in competitions.

These positive traits are building blocks to lifelong habits that set these students up for success in life.

A well-rounded student who displays active participation in and outside the classroom

will have a substantial advantage over students who are top in their studies when it comes to competing for spots in top-tier institutions of higher learning.

The world’s best universities look for applicants who can demonstrate desirable skills such as leadership, problem-solving, communication skills and personality traits such as confidence and civic awareness in addition to superior academic performance.

Ultimately, an ideal school environment is one that encourages students to have a good work-play balance and provides exposure for students to hone their interests, while developing the required skills to advance in life.

The extra-curricular exhibition at Sunway International School’s Open Day is a sensory treat as students will exhibit slide shows, interactive booths and display boards that showcase the host of exciting experiences and learning they have gained from being involved in these activities.

SIS invites parents and students to visit the exhibition and speak with the school’s student ambassadors at the Open Day on Oct 11 from 10am to 3pm.

n For more information,call 03-7491 8070 or visitwww.sis.sunway.edu.my/openday

The Sunway International School team represented Malaysia at in the International History Bee & Bowl Championship held in Hong Kong in June this year.

Boost your child’s confidenceBy ELLEN WHYTE

SELF-CONFIDENCE is the foundation to well-being and success as it affects how we see ourselves.

It protects against all sorts of mental health problems from anorexia to stress as well as making us less vulnerable to bullies and abusive partners.

Self-confidence isn’t inherited like eye-colour or height but comes from the people around us, so give your child’s self-confidence a boost with these handy tips.lLearn from your pastLook at your own childhood and make

a list of things your parents did that made you feel great about yourself, and do these with your kids.

Also, note what hurt your confidence and avoid those. lDon’t beat yourself upYou already know this but it never hurts

to say it again: parenting is one of the toughest jobs on the planet and there is no such thing as the perfect mummy or daddy.

Accept that you can’t be perfect, and share this valuable life lesson with your kids.

lPraise carefullySelf-confidence rises out of a sense of

competence so it’s not how we look but what we do that matters. Take time every day to praise a skill your child has: tying shoe laces, being kind to a friend or drawing a picture.lBuild skills togetherSpending time together says, “You’re

important to me”, which is a boost itself. Being able to do things is also high on the list.

Remember how good it felt the first time you flew a kite or rode your bicycle? Work together to build skills and have others ready to show interest and shower praise when your small one shows off a new skill.lEffort counts tooIt takes time to learn and setbacks can

put anyone off, so praising a good effort will give your little one the impetus and courage to try again

If the task is clearly beyond achieving, calmly suggest you leave this for another day and say how much you admire people who keep trying.

Parenting is one of the toughest jobs on the planet and there is no such thing as the perfect mummy or daddy.


Community service and co-curricular activities enable students to build connections with other people.

Igniting a passion for learning

EDUCATION is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. For many young people,

the race is on to fill their pail with degrees and diplomas in the belief that those alone are what it takes to have a successful life.

The limited focus means that for many young people, the fire for learning remains unlit.

It is a fact that for even the most academically talented of students, there is often an unfathomable gap between the curriculum and their everyday lives.

For many students, the opportunities to apply what has been learned in the classroom to

real-life situations are decreasing. With the prevalence of

digital resources and advance of strategies for learning, this disconnect has never been more obvious.

To ignite a passion among our young people, it is vital for students at elc International School to be shown these connections. They need to have concepts grounded in strong civic mindedness.

This means that there is a need to extend learning to beyond the classroom.

This process of combining classroom instruction with real-

environmental orientation. This is often referred to as

service learning and facilitates the building of strong bonds among students and members of the community.

Countries that have implemented service learning as a regular part of the curriculum have seen a gradual increase in empathy and encourage cooperation in achieving a common goal.

In an increasingly segmented and insular society, these skills are often rare commodities.

It is important to note that service learning does not replace

classroom learning.It reinforces the learning

process and helps students make connections to real-world issues.

In Malaysia, it is necessary for us to appreciate the perspectives of others to understand the benefits of being different.

Students of elc will develop a greater sense of social responsibility and be inspired to give back.

Being involved in community service will give opportunities to students to learn from conversing and interacting with other people as they encounter new points of view.

Service activities facilitate the building of strong bonds among students and members of the community.

Being involved in community service will give opportunities to students to learn from conversing and interacting with other people as they encounter new points of view. life applications can be achieved with a community service and

bright kids - 07 october 2014

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