Sophie's teachers told me today that she is "more than ready" to cross over to the kindergarten side. So she would be officially in Nursery 1 from next week. That is a huge step for both me and Sophie. We are officially separated (after more than 3 years, including gestation) as an "entity" and Sophie has to fend for herself from now on. Well, at least in school...
Apart from getting her school uniform and other essentials, I have to get familiar with the school's culture and curriculum. For instance, they follow the Montessori philosophy and uses the Spalding Method for English lessons. I am familiar with Montessori but not the Spalding Method... yet. I have ordered books on it though so I have lots to read up on. I am also slowly teaching Sophie Chinese at home. I started with basic vocabulary (body parts) and so far, she was quite receptive. In school, she would probably learn Chinese according to themes as well but lots more singing and fingerplays.
Apart from the core aspects of learning English (writing, speaking, spelling, reading), the children also follow themes for their English lessons. The first theme is "Sea Creatures" which would stretch 2 weeks. At the end of the two weeks, they would visit Underwater World in Sentosa (field trip). I like the idea personally but I worry if I could tag along with my bump getting bigger each day. Also, they have Art and Music Appreciation Programme and this term, they are doing "Paul Klee" and "Mozart". I am not sure how they would do it though. I like the fact that they send us newsletter to inform us about their plans for the term. That way, I can reinforce on my own at home.
The only concern - I am still not done with my Alphabet books so should I shelf it or do it concurrently?
