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School Closed: Everything You Need to Know About the Impact on Families in Singapore

Introduction

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools in Singapore have been closed since March 27, 2020. This unprecedented closure has had a significant impact on families, particularly those with working parents and children in need of support and supervision.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate this challenging time, including:

school closed singapore

School Closure Timeline and Updates
Impact on Families and Children
Resources and Support for Parents
Tips and Tricks for Home Learning
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Step-by-Step Approach to Supporting Children During School Closure
Call to Action for the Community

School Closure Timeline and Updates

March 27, 2020: Schools in Singapore closed indefinitely.
April 8, 2020: Home-Based Learning (HBL) implemented for all students.
June 2, 2020: Schools partially reopened for graduating cohorts.
July 6, 2020: Schools fully reopened for all students.

Current Status: Schools in Singapore are fully reopened. However, HBL may be implemented again if there is a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Impact on Families and Children

The school closure has had a profound impact on families in Singapore. According to a survey conducted by the Ministry of Education (MOE) in May 2020:

School Closed: Everything You Need to Know About the Impact on Families in Singapore

65% of parents reported feeling stressed or anxious about the impact of school closure on their children's education.
52% of parents reported having difficulty balancing work and childcare responsibilities.
38% of children reported feeling bored or isolated due to lack of social interaction.

Resources and Support for Parents

The Singapore government and various organizations have provided a range of resources and support for parents during the school closure. These include:

Home-Based Learning (HBL) Support: MOE has provided online learning materials, video conferencing tools, and support for parents through the HBL Hub website.
Childcare Subsidies: The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) has implemented a temporary childcare subsidy to support working parents who need emergency childcare for their children.
Mental Health Support: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has launched the National Care Hotline (6289 2222) to provide confidential psychological support and counseling services to families.
Financial Assistance: The Government of Singapore has implemented various financial assistance schemes to support families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Temporary Relief Fund (TRF) and the COVID-19 Support Grant (CSG).

Tips and Tricks for Home Learning

Creating a Home Learning Environment:

Introduction

School Closed: Everything You Need to Know About the Impact on Families in Singapore

Establish a dedicated learning space that is free from distractions.
Ensure the learning space has good lighting and ventilation.
Provide your child with comfortable furniture and necessary supplies.

Setting a Routine:

Establish a regular schedule for learning, breaks, and activities.
Stick to the schedule as much as possible to create a sense of stability.
Allow flexibility in the schedule to accommodate unexpected events.

Keeping Children Engaged and Motivated:

Make learning fun by using games, activities, and interactive resources.
Encourage hands-on learning experiences that involve real-life applications.
Set clear expectations and provide regular feedback to help children stay motivated.

Supporting Children's Social and Emotional Needs:

Plan for regular breaks to allow children to socialize with friends and family.
Encourage children to engage in activities that promote mindfulness and relaxation.
Seek professional help if you notice any significant changes in your child's behavior or mood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Over-scheduling: Avoid overloading your child with too many activities.
Micromanaging: Allow your child some independence and autonomy in their learning.
Comparing Your Child to Others: Every child learns at their own pace. Avoid comparing your child's progress to others.
Ignoring Your Own Needs: It's important to take care of your own well-being during this challenging time. Ask for help when you need it.

Step-by-Step Approach to Supporting Children During School Closure

1. Establish a Safe and Supportive Environment: Create a home environment that fosters learning and well-being.
2. Set Clear Expectations: Discuss the importance of education with your child and establish clear expectations for learning during the school closure.
3. Provide Learning Opportunities: Engage your child in a variety of learning activities that cater to their interests and learning styles.
4. Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your child's understanding and progress. Provide feedback and support as needed.
5. Foster Social and Emotional Development: Plan for regular opportunities for your child to connect with friends and family. Encourage activities that promote mindfulness and relaxation.
6. Seek Support When Needed: Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter difficulties in supporting your child's learning or well-being.

Call to Action for the Community

The school closure has been a challenging time for families in Singapore. It is important for the community to come together and support each other during this time. Here are some ways to help:

Offer Support to Parents: Reach out to parents with children who may be struggling with the school closure. Offer practical help, such as childcare or homework assistance.
Donate to Charities: Donate to organizations that provide support to families affected by the school closure, such as the Singapore Children's Society and the National Council of Social Service (NCSS).
Advocate for Families: Contact your local Member of Parliament (MP) or the MOE to advocate for additional support and resources for families during the school closure.

Conclusion

The school closure in Singapore has presented a unique set of challenges for families. However, with the right resources, support, and strategies, we can navigate this difficult time and ensure that our children continue to thrive and learn during this disruption to their education. By working together as a community, we can support each other and emerge stronger from this experience.