Cyrus Says

Cyrus* is 5 years old. He is a cute boy with a ready smile. Mommy enrolled him in our center to prepare for the Entrance Exam for Preschool in one of the most prestigious institutions here in the Philippines, the UPIS (University of the Philippines Integrated School). The exam is on Monday, April 4.

I know that mommy believes his son is smart enough to pass the exam. The problem is.. Simon has a very limited English vocabulary. At 5, he doesn't know the English words for lobo (baloon), ibon (bird) mesa (table), tasa (cup) and other very common items found inside the house.  What more, Cyrus doesn't want to write. Mommy said he only works when he wants to. In fact, he normally comes to the center with undone homework and mommy will simply say 'he doesn't want to do it.'

I know all parents want the best for their children. There's also nothing wrong with trying. I just want to point out that if any parent has the intentions of enrolling his child to a very good school, then, he might as well start teaching him early. Two English words a day wouldn't be that difficult. There is also no need to work the child hard. A simple.. 'ito ay fork, ito ay chair, ito ay box' (this is fork, this is chair, this is box) will do. There's no need to buy expensive books, anything that we see around can be a medium of teaching, 'ang tawag dun cat, ang tawag sa anak ng cat ay kitten' (that is a cat, the baby cat is called kitten) 'ang tawag dito hat, ito naman ay cap' (this is a hat, this one is a cap).

It's an accepted fact that not all parents are patient enough, especially when it comes to teaching a child to write. An old notebook and a pencil will do, let the child draw circles and lines and other senseless shapes they could make, this is to develop POWER GRIP in preparation for writing..

If we want the best for our children, let's begin at home. It doesn't need to be expensive, no need for Disney Princess coloring books, twistable crayons or glossy-colored books. All it takes is quality time and a burning love that knows no bounds...  Parents are the best teachers, don't settle for anything less...

*not real name