July 17, 2008

Montessori

A well known and established method of teaching practised worldwide, founded by Dr Maria Montessori, develops independent confident thinkers. The concept of of normalisation which forms an integral part of her famous Montessori model is believed to emerge when developmental needs are met within a child's enviroment.

Characteristics of normalisation identified by Dr Montessori include love of order and work; spontaneous concentration; attachment to reality; love of silence and working alone; sublimation of the possessive instinct; power to act from real choice;obedience, independence and initiative; spontaneous self discipline; and joy.

The curriculum includes Practical Life Exercises, Sensorial Training, Montessori Language, Montessori Mathematics, Cultural Subjects and Creative Arts.

Pre-Nomination Form

Educare Child Development Centre




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Quick Facts
Age Range
2-6 yrs old

Contact Detail
229, Jalan Ara,
Bangsar Baru
59100 Kuala Lumpur

Tel : 03-2283 3442

July 11, 2008

Kumon

Created in Japan 1954 by Toru Kumon, the Kumon Method stresses self-directed, independent learning. The programme focuses on building childrens' skills in English, Mathematics and other subjects at an individualised and stress free pace.

Students visit the Kumon Centre once a week to complete custom prepared materials at a comfortable pace. After completion, students correct their own work with help from an instructor, who acts more like mentor, thus learning from their own mistakes. Parental involvement is highly encouraged and essential in tracking learning progress.

Kemas

Kemas Centres were created by the Ministry of Education to provide preschool programmes for young children from all communities aged between 4-5 years. Teachers from Kemas Centres train with the Community Development Division (Kemas) of the National Unity Department. The curriculum guidelines set by the Ministry of Education, aim to enable preschool childen to acquire basic communication, social and other positive skills in preparation for primary schooling.

Social, intellectual, physical, spiritual skills and aesthetic values are the focus of Kemas Centre teachings. The programme runs for a duration of 1 to 2 years and are offered throughout the country in both urban and rural areas. The fees charged by these preschools vary and are largely determined by overhead costs and market forces. Preschool classes conducted by the MOE and other government agencies enable under-privileged children to preschool education for free or at a minimal charge. Priority for admission to these classes is given to those who cannot otherwise afford to attend preschool.

Julia Gabriel

Started by Julia Gabriel in Singapore, Julia Gabriel's unique approach to learning is called EduDrama which uses speech and drama techniques to help children develop confidence.They practice a playful approach to life and learning not only in children, but also in parents and teaching staff.

They also have a pre-school called Chiltern House that offers full childcare services that incorporates the Julia Gabriel Method into their syllabus.

Homeschooling

"Homeschool" is not a really accurate term. Homeschooling just means learning outside of the public or private school environment. Homeschooling usually requires a commitment by a parent or guardian to oversees their child's educational development.

Schooling activities involve learning from the rich resources available the local community, environment, and through interactions with a community of other families who homeschool.

The decision to homeschool is not one to be taken lightly and the Pros & Cons should be thoroughly considered.