What does critical thinking mean?
Thursday, April 25, 2024
Fostering Critical Thinking in Our Children
What does critical thinking mean?
Monday, March 25, 2024
Pack Perfect Lunches: A Guide to School Food Containers
Image Credit: The Kawaii Yellow Duck Food Container is from here: https://shope.ee/7pW0H1oUgO
Available at Shopee: https://shope.ee/2LB3eOhoaY |
Available at Shopee: https://shope.ee/B6Z4Y8y3y |
Available at Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.8OI3z?cc |
Available at Shopee: https://shope.ee/1fvMt7fP5e |
Available at Shopee: https://shope.ee/10fg6olWNH |
Label everything! Use reusable name tags or write directly on containers with a permanent marker or label stickers to avoid lunchtime mix-ups.
Available at Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.8OHnN?cc |
Choosing the Right Material:
Consider the following when choosing the material of your food container.
Glass: Eco-friendly and non-porous, glass containers are perfect for storing leftovers and non-acidic foods. However, they can be heavy and break easily, making them less ideal for younger children.
Stainless Steel: Durable and lightweight, stainless steel containers are a great all-around option. They're leakproof, shatterproof, and resist odors and stains. However, they're not microwave-safe and can dent.
Plastic: Opt for BPA-free plastic containers. These are lightweight, affordable, and come in various shapes and sizes. However, some plastics can leach chemicals over time, so choose them for short-term storage.
Silicone: These flexible and heat-resistant containers are perfect for packing snacks and freezing leftovers. They're lightweight, leakproof, and easy to clean. However, they may not be suitable for very hot or cold foods.
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Stay Cool in School: Malaysia's Education Ministry Issues Heatwave Measures
The Malaysian Ministry of Education (MOE) is prioritizing the health and safety of students and staff during hot weather. They've outlined several measures for schools to implement:
Monitor student exposure: School officials will keep an eye on activities that could put students at risk in the heat.
Drink up!: Students will be advised to drink plenty of water to stay cool.
Dormitory support: Schools will provide drinking water to dorm students if needed.
Heatstroke watch: Schools will be vigilant and prepared to work with clinics and hospitals if any students experience heat-related complications.
The MOE encourages schools to follow these guidelines, stay informed about local weather conditions, and comply with any additional recommendations from authorities to ensure everyone's well-being. Additionally, schools can consider allowing students, teachers, and staff to wear modest sportswear during hot weather to stay comfortable.
The full statement from the Ministry of Education or Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia can be found here.
Monday, March 18, 2024
Ministry of Education's Curriculum Intervention - What You Need To Know
The Ministry of Education acknowledges and addresses concerns regarding the perceived complexity of the curriculum, its suitability for the age group of students, the difficulty in understanding Classroom Assessment reporting (PBD), and the lack of access for parents to PBD reports. In response, the ministry has implemented four intervention initiatives.
1. Revision of the KSSR Alignment Document (2017 Revised) Edition 3.
2. Early Detection of Literacy and Numeracy Challenges.
3. Introduction of Parent-Friendly Classroom Assessment (PBD) Reporting.
Let's delve into the details of these changes and their potential impact:
1. Revision of the KSSR Alignment Document (2017 Revised) Edition 3
What you need to know:
This is NOT a change of syllabus or curriculum. The change of syllabus will take place in 2027 starting for Std 1 and Form 1 students. KSSR is a an acronym for Kurikulum Standard Sekolah Rendah (translated to Malaysia Primary School Standard Curriculum) and has been in place since 2011. In the year 2017 after the first batch of students completed their primary school, the KSSR was reviewed and revised with new textbooks. The next change will be in 2027.
What has changed:
The ministry has introduced the latest edition of the KSSR Alignment Document, which focuses on realigning the Phase One Science and Mathematics subjects. (Phase One = Tahap 1 or Standard 1 to Standard 3). This document provides teachers with updated guidelines for implementing the lower school curriculum, ensuring that the content remains relevant and effective.
In short, this is a tweak, update and reorganization of the existing content for the Math and Science curriculum with support materials for teachers. The KSSR Alignment Document (Semakan 2017) Edition 3 is provided as an option to teachers in implementing the lower school curriculum and may be used together with the Stage One Science and Mathematics Guidance Module. Parents need not worry about getting new textbooks.
What you need to know:
A crucial aspect of the intervention involves assessing the literacy and numeracy skills of Year One students. The aim is to identify students who have not yet mastered the skills of reading, writing and calculating and provide them with early intervention
What to expect:
After 3 months of schooling, educators will conduct screenings to identify students in need of additional support in developing fundamental skills such as reading, writing, and arithmetic. (or 3M ie Membaca, Menulis dan Mengira). This will be done through the existing PBD (Pentaksiran Bilik Darjah or Classroom Based Assessment).
3. Parent-Friendly PBD Reporting (PBD)
What you need to know:
KPM has introduced a more parent-friendly reporting for PBD to provide parents with better insights into their child's progress. Additionally, PBD reporting can now be accessed online through the Integrated Assessment Management System (or SPPB ie Sistem Pengurusan Pentaksiran Bersepadu), with effect from the current academic year 2024/2025. Login to the SPPB here: https://idme.moe.gov.my/login
What this means:
PBD reporting will be simplified and made available online. To enhance parent understanding of the reports, UASA results for all subjects will now be in percentages and grades format instead of the previous TP (Tahap Penguasaan) format. UASA is short for Ujian Akhir Semester Akademik. (End of Academic Semester Examination). Read more about UASA here.
4. Upgrading of the KSSR Alignment Document (2017 Revised) Edition 3
To ensure effective implementation, KPM is committed to upgrading the KSSR Alignment Document through workshops and training sessions for teachers.
What this means:
This is related to Item 1 above. Item 1 will be disseminated to teachers through workshops and training sessions. By equipping educators with the necessary tools and resources, the ministry aims to enhance instructional practices and elevate learning outcomes in Phase One Science and Mathematics subjects.
These initiatives aim to streamline the curriculum, facilitate early identification of literacy and numeracy issues, enhance reporting mechanisms for parents, and ensure educators are equipped with updated guidelines for effective teaching.
References as embedded below are from:
Facebook post from KPM (Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia)
Facebook post from Minister of Education, Fadhlina Sidek
Press Conference by Minishter of Education, Fadhlina Sidek as shown on the Astro Awani YouTube Channel
Tuesday, March 05, 2024
10 Must Haves for Back To School
It's back to school season. Are you ready? To help you prepare yourself and your child for the chaos of starting a new academic year, we've compiled a list of 10 essential back-to-school supplies for a more organized and successful academic year.
Image Credit: Mydin on Shopee |
1. School Uniforms
Image Credit: Pinly Garment |
There are quite a lot of school uniform brands in the market that offer school uniforms for various budgets. You can also find wrinkle free uniforms if you hate ironing. Nowadays you can purchase school uniforms online or at physical stores.
For physical stores, check out our compilation of the back to school promotions offered by stores to compare prices easily by checking out the brochures and e-leaflets before you go to the store so you know what you are shopping for.
https://mumsgather.blogspot.com/2024/03/back-to-school-2024-promo-compilation.html
For online stores, check out the various brands that are available online.
https://mumsgather.blogspot.com/2021/11/school-uniforms-official-stores-in.html
For wrinkle free uniforms, check this out.
https://mumsgather.blogspot.com/2021/11/wrinkle-free-school-uniforms.html
2. School Shoes
Image Credit: Pallas Flagship Store on Lazmall |
Sometimes parents would buy a size bigger for school uniforms but for school shoes, it would be better to buy the correct size for the child's comfort and safety even though they may grow out of it fairly quickly. Here are the links to shop for shoes online.
Shopee: https://shope.ee/3pzLXwKFoF
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYJKx?cc
When shopping online, measuring the feet correctly is very important. Here is a useful video on how to measure your child's feet when shopping for school shoes.
3. School Bags
Image Credit: Coala School Bag from Dolly Club Official |
Parents frequently inquire, particularly those with children just embarking on their school journey or transitioning from primary to secondary school, about the ideal type of school bag: backpack or roller bag?
Other than the type of school bag, the cost is important too. Should you get a cheap bag which you can replace every year or get the more expensive ergo-comfort spine protection bags?
Other than the regular school bag, you may also need a smaller sling or hand carry tuition bag. Sometimes kids carry both to school to even out the weight.
Shop for school bags here:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/20XhNzvkap
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYrub?cc
You may also like to read:
Guidelines for School Bags
6 Ways to Reduce the Weight of School Bags
Backpack vs Trolley Bag
4. Water Tumbler
Image Credit: Tuppersweet |
Water Tumbler is a must to keep students hydrated. What size to buy? 750ml fits most school bags nicely. However, kids who drink a lot may like 1 liter bottles. Twist cap, flip cap or straws? As long as it does not spill, whichever type of cover is good, however note that those that come with inbuilt straws may be easy to drink from but harder to wash.
Here are the links for buying water tumblers of different brands including Tupperware, BROS, Thermos and more.
Shopee: https://shope.ee/2fnOCQgRkw
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYIz0?cc
5. Lunch Box or Food Containers
Image Credit: Seega on Lazada |
Apart from having a short break during recess, sometimes kids are required to stay back after school. This is where an insulated lunch box that does not spill come in handy. Some of them come with matching lunch box bags or carriers too.
When shopping for lunch boxes for kids, consider factors such as size, insulation, durability, safety, ease of cleaning, accessibility, versatility, style, portability, and budget to ensure the perfect balance of functionality, convenience, and appeal for your child's meals.
Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/4AcC00tjT9
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYsLR?cc
6. Personalized Name Labels
Personalized name labels are useful for back to school because they help children easily identify their belongings, prevent loss, and promote organization.Image Credit: Lucky Sticker Printing on Shopee |
Additionally, personalized name labels can foster a sense of ownership and responsibility in children by encouraging them to take care of their belongings. Not to mention, it will give us parents less headache searching for their items. Most schools have a lost and found shelf or cupboard. With name labels you can easily spot your child's lost or forgotten item. It would be a good idea to get shoe name labels to stick on shoes too because they do remove them to go to the library or surau etc and you may find them coming home with a different pair!
These days the name labels can be personalized in multi languages, is waterproof and can be used on many surfaces.
Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/6ANGOOCspu
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYHWv?cc
7. Stationery Essentials
Image Credit: Super Stationery on Shopee |
Prepare for a successful school year by stocking up on essential stationery items. From pens and pencils to notebooks and highlighters, having the right tools at hand can enhance productivity and organization. With these stationery essentials, students can tackle assignments, take notes, and unleash their creativity with confidence.
Stationery Checklist for Back to School.
- Pencils and Erasers
- Pens in different colours
- Highlighters in various colours
- Coloured pencils
- Crayons
- Glue sticks
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Notebooks
- Lose leaf papers in white and various colours
- Binders and folders
- Sticky notes
- Book wrappers
- Pencil case or pouch
- Correction tape or fluid
- Stapler and staples
- Calculator
- Protractor
- Celophane tape
- Pencil sharperner
Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/8zhRoo5AWZ
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYGMk?cc
8. Workbooks
Image Credit: Our blog |
You may find the following posts useful:
Where to buy school textbooks and activity books on shoppee
Where to buy Malaysian School Textbooks and Workbooks
9. Storage and desk or study room organizers
Image Credit: Storage Haven on Lazada |
Where to buy:
Shopee: https://shope.ee/40IlswhweW
Lazada: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.RYuNT?cc
10. Others
Umbrella, kids raincoat, hand sanitizer, tissues, wipes, craft supplies, family calendar or planner are some of the other back to school supplies you may need.
Can you think of anything more?
Transitioning to the New School Year
Getting back to school after a long school break can be a tedious routine for children every year. This means another transition from one grade to another. New syllabus, new class, new seatings and perhaps even new friends. The need for transition becomes bigger if your child is moving from preschool to primary school or from primary school to secondary school. There could be some level of nervousness and anxiety amongst our children.
This post was brought to you by Eye Level Malaysia.
Friday, March 01, 2024
Back to School 2024 Promo Compilation: Your Easy Reference Guide
It's almost time for Back to School 2024 for the new academic year 2024/2025. The new school term will start on 10 or 11 March 2024 depending on which state in Malaysia you are in. Here is a compilation of Back to School promotions so you can make price comparisons for your back to school shopping.
There are so many back to school options available for uniforms, shoes, bags, tumblers, food containers, stationery and more. As the back-to-school season approaches, we understand the importance of making your shopping experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible. That's why we've compiled a comprehensive reference point to all the exciting promotions and deals available, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips.
1. AEON Ready, Steady, School Early School Preparation Essentials
Date: 12 Feb to 17 Mar 2024
School Uniform brands sold include Canggih, Dexwin, K-Primary, U-Cemerlang and Outpost
View full brochure here
View full brochure here |
Date: 7 Feb to 13 Mar 2024
Uniform Brands sold include Canggih and Parkson School Shop
View Mailer here
View Mailer here |
Download brochure here
Date: 15 February to 18 March 2024
Uniform Brands sold include Disiplin
Browse Catalogue here
Browse Catalogue here |
Date: 15 Feb to 10 Mar 2024
Uniform Brands sold include Astar, U-Cemerlang, WHH School and Canggih
Flip through brochure here
Flip through brochure here |
Date: 13 Feb to 26 Mar 2024
For its back to school promo, Bata is offering discounts for buying 2 pairs combo which you can mix and match
View shoes here
View shoes here |
Date: 13 Feb to 10 Mar 2024
Uniform Brands include Anak Malaysia, Outpost, K-Secondary and Canggih
See e-leaflet here
See e-leaflet here |
Date: 15 Feb - 13 Mar 2024
Uniform Brands include Canggih
View more here
View more here |
View Deals here: https://shope.ee/7UsXpMwaCP
View Deals here: https://shope.ee/7UsXpMwaCP |
Shopping for Stationery, Name Tags, School bags online is convenient for busy parents
Lazada Back to School Promo - Shop Now: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.izRz3?cc |
Lazada Back to School Promo - Shop Now: https://s.lazada.com.my/s.izRz3?cc |
Useful Tips:
Compare Prices: Before making a purchase, compare prices across different retailers to ensure you're getting the best deal.
Shop Online: Many retailers offer additional discounts and promotions for online purchases.
Consider Used Items: Look for pre-loved textbooks, uniforms, and other school supplies in good condition. This can be a sustainable and budget-friendly option. Join our FB group to trade in preloved goods: Malaysia Market for Children Preloved and Educational Items on Facebook
With a little planning and these helpful tips, you can find excellent back-to-school deals in Malaysia and send your child off to the new year feeling prepared and excited!
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Vicks VapoRub: A Fresh Perspective For Modern Mothers
Vicks VapoRub is a familiar presence in many households around the world.
The Legacy of Vicks VapoRub
Today, Vicks VapoRub continue to remain a staple in many households. Let's learn the benefits of Vicks VapoRub and explore how this age-old companion can be used as a modern solution for today's mothers.
The active ingredients found in Vicks VapoRub transform it into a comforting balm, it becomes a wellness solution tailored for today’s mothers.
Benefits of the Active Ingredients
Its time-tested formula, infused with active ingredients like camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil, offers many benefits that are particularly relevant for modern mothers.
All of these components play a crucial role in providing relief and comfort. Understanding these active ingredients allows modern mothers to make informed choices when selecting products for their family's well-being.
Vicks VapoRub helps soothe aches and pains, relieves nasal congestion and cough due to cold.
Spotlight on Natural Ingredients
In addition to its active components, Vicks VapoRub also contains herbal ingredients. It contains a blend of natural oils like cedar leaf oil, nutmeg oil, and thymol which bring a delightful aroma.
Its soothing properties and calming scent make it a good choice for alleviating muscle soreness due to cold.
For Muscle Aches and Pains: Apply a thin layer of Vicks to sore muscles to experience its soothing effects.
Creative Tips for Incorporating Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub can be integrated into your treatment routine for your wellness. Explore innovative ways to include Vicks VapoRub in your daily life, supporting your self-care treatment rituals with these creative tips.
Keep a Jar Handy: Always have a jar of Vicks VapoRub on hand, whether at home, in your car, or in your travel bag for blocked nose, cough and muscle ache relief.
Create a Soothing Inhalation therapy: Add a spoonful of Vicks VapoRub to a bowl of hot water for soothing steam inhalation.
A Family Remedy for Modern Mums
Vicks VapoRub is a timeless remedy that holds immense value for modern mothers. It's time to support your cough and cold wellness arsenal with Vicks VapoRub. By understanding its active ingredients, harnessing its versatility, and incorporating it into your cold treatment routine, you can learn the benefits of Vicks VapoRub as a blocked nose and cough remedy. Embrace the benefits of Vicks and discover its ability to support your family and your well-being.
Promo Code for Readers!
Enter code VICKSPBC1 to get promotional price for Vicks Vaporub from Watsons Online Malaysia.
This post was brought to you by Vicks VapoRub.
Read label before use. Use as directed. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
This is a medicine product advertisement. KKLIU 0534 / EXP 31.12.2026
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year at Avenue K Shopping Mall
Chinese New Year is round the corner, a very exciting time indeed filled with traditions and culture. Recently I was at Avenue K shopping mall and I came across 8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year.
The Avenue K's theme for Chinese New Year this year is Eden of Opulence. With this garden theme, shoppers can expect to see and feel Chinese New Year like I did.
8 things that remind me of Chinese New Year
1. Lion Dance
These were the lion dancers which greeted shoppers at Avenue K. It was fun to listen to the drums and watch the lion dance performers. The lion dancers blessed one of the mall's latest eateries, Rue De Paris Cafe.
Note: Lion Dance Performance are on the following dates and time at Avenue K mall.
23 Jan 2024 at 12.45pm
27 Jan, 3, 12 Feb 2024 at 2.30pm
@mumsgather #avenuek #liondance #cny #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #chinesenewyear #opulence ♬ original sound - mumsgather
2. Yee Sang
We had Yee Sang at Rue De Paris cafe. Interestingly, the crunchy parts were made with cornflakes. What an interesting and novel addition to the dish. Yummy!
3. Angpow
4. Auspicious Plants and Wishing Trees
5. Cheongsam
Women love to dress up in traditional Chinese Cheongsam during Chinese New Year. Its quite fun to see the various designs from traditional vintage qipaos to more modern versions and designs for the younger ladies. Check out the Cheongsams at Avenue K. There's one for everyone, including the little ones.
6. Chinese Cultural Performances
This is the best time to watch Chinese Cultural Performances for free!
Note: You can watch the amazing Chinese face changing performance at Avenue K mall at the following dates and time.
23 Jan 2024 at 12.30pm
2, 16 Feb 2024 at 1.00pm
Here's a sneak peek. Don't show this to the kids yet. Bring them for a surprise.
@mumsgather #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #cny #chinesenewyear #facechanging at #avenuek ♬ original sound - mumsgather
7. Shopping
8 Visiting Malls
One of the must dos by all Malaysians during every festival is to visit our numerous malls to check out the mall decorations. This year, Avenue K Shopping Mall welcomes the year of the Dragon with the "Eden of Opulence" with a lush garden theme.
Watch the video below to see the "Eden of Opulence" at Avenue K shopping mall.
@mumsgather #chinesenewyear #cny #cny2024 #chinesenewyear2024 #malldecor #avenuek #edenofopulence #opulence #wishingtree ♬ original sound - mumsgather
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