Running a kindergarten: The SKM programme is making it possible

My experience doing the SKM in Early Childhood Care and Development Education was eye-opening. I enjoyed all five modules tremendously, especially Early Childhood Care Centre Operation Support. It is fascinating to learn how to match lesson plans with a child’s age.

Crafting Lesson Plans

I remember a particular task, where I was asked to come up with an activity for three-year-olds. I chose to do an activity where a child holds a pencil to trace the outline of a picture on a piece of paper. Sounds simple and straightforward, right?

Not really. My lecturer, Ms Nalini, explained that a child that young may not have the adequate motor skills to carry out the task on a piece of paper and that I should change it to cardboard instead. It really made me realise how important it is to be sensitive that activities are age-appropriate.

Engaging Children

I also value the guidance that we get in class that helps us apply theory to hands-on practice. Due to the pandemic, we had to continue our lessons online but our lecturer kept our spirits up as she taught us techniques, such as using music and dance, to engage young children online.

I am looking forward to resuming face-to-face classes because it makes a world of difference being able to engage in physical activities in class and with children during the practicum sessions.

The Next Step

Besides my lecturer and my coursemates, my mother has been a constant source of inspiration and support. We have a relationship that is based on trust and respect. 

I felt really down after my SPM because I had not done well enough. My mum, though, was more optimistic. She said, “Look, I’ve always wanted to open a kindergarten. Will you be interested in going into business with me?”

I am looking forward to the next step which is to continue my diploma studies at Dika College and hopefully, after that, to start a kindergarten with my mother. Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine that I would be pursuing a career in early childhood education. Now, I don’t see myself doing anything else.