A Working Mom’s PSLE Journey and Lessons Learned
As a busy working mother of two in Singapore, my days are a constant balancing act—managing work, school schedules, meals, and everything in between. Through all the chaos, one thing has remained clear: I want to provide my children with the best opportunities. Now that my eldest, Buddy, is preparing for his PSLE, I find myself reflecting on the lessons I’ve learned about tuition, learning styles, and what truly works.
Every Child Learns Differently
When Buddy started primary school, I assumed he would follow in my academic footsteps. I was the kind of student who loved studying, worked hard, and chased after top grades without being told. Naturally, I thought my children would have the same drive.
But Buddy is different. He is relaxed, easygoing, and far more interested in play than in schoolwork. No amount of nagging or structured study plans could change that. Over time, I realized that my approach to learning had to evolve to fit his needs, not mine.
The Tuition Dilemma: What Works and What Doesn’t?
Like many Singaporean parents, I turned to tuition to give Buddy a leg up. We tried everything—Chinese enrichment from the age of three, group tuition, private tutors, and holiday booster programs. Despite the effort and expense, the results were mixed.
I found myself questioning:
- Why weren’t years of Chinese classes improving his writing?
- Why, despite tuition in math and science, did I still have to sit with him every evening to reinforce concepts?
- Was I simply following a formula that worked for others but not for Buddy?
It became clear that learning isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key was finding the right approach that matched his strengths, weaknesses, and learning style.
Why Private Tuition Worked Best for Buddy
After much trial and error, I realized that private tuition was the game-changer for Buddy. Here’s why:
1. Tailored Learning for Individual Needs
Unlike group tuition, where lessons follow a set curriculum, private tuition adapts to Buddy’s pace. His tutor can focus on his weak areas—whether it’s structuring a Chinese composition or breaking down complex math problems—without moving too fast or too slow. This personalized attention made a significant difference.
2. No Wasted Time on Commuting
As a working mom, time is precious. Group tuition often meant long travel times, leaving Buddy tired before lessons even started. With private tuition at home or online, every minute is spent learning effectively instead of commuting.
3. Focused Attention and Engagement
Buddy has a short attention span, and in a group setting, distractions were inevitable. His tutor, however, keeps him engaged, monitors his progress closely, and adjusts lessons on the spot to ensure understanding. This one-on-one attention has kept him accountable and motivated.
When Group Tuition Might Be a Better Fit
While private tuition worked for Buddy, I’ve seen how group tuition benefits other children. For students who are naturally disciplined, self-motivated, and thrive in structured environments, learning alongside peers can be highly effective. Group tuition also works well for subjects that require discussion, such as English or Science.
The Key Takeaway: Understand Your Child’s Needs
If there’s one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that education is not about forcing children into a predefined mold. Every child has his or her own learning style, strengths, and challenges. For Buddy, private tuition provided the personalized touch he needed, while group classes felt overwhelming.
As parents, it’s easy to feel pressured by what works for others. But the best decision is always the one that aligns with your child’s unique needs. Whether it’s private tuition, group tuition, or a mix of both, the goal is to create a supportive learning environment where they can truly thrive.
So, to fellow parents navigating this path—trust your instincts, be flexible, and most importantly, listen to your child. Education is a journey, and we’re in this together. Let’s keep moving forward, one step at a time.
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