Dear friends,

We became teachers because we want to teach, and to teach well. Most teachers whom I have worked with were in one way or another impacted by an inspiring teacher at some point in their life and some students went on to become teachers.
What does it mean to teach well? What does good teaching look like? What characterises an effective teacher? In the introduction of his book titled "The Courage to Teach", Parker Palmer writes:

" . . . teachers possess the power to create conditions that can help students learn a great deal or keep them from learning much at all. Teaching is the intentional act of creating those conditions and good teaching requires that we understand the inner resources of both the intent and the act."

This is indeed something that as educators, we are able to create this learning environment and community for our children to do well in life.

In Singapore, Children’s Day is celebrated in Primary Schools on 1 October every year. Schools celebrate this day with concerts, sports activities whereby children can enjoy childhood, demonstrate their talents, skills and abilities through a diverse range of activities.

As Children’s Day approaches, let us wish all our children (from the little ones to the big ones) a very Happy Children’s Day. This song is a timely reminder of the ones we teach and our role as educators. 

Keep up the good work as good role models and do remember to help our young ones enjoy their childhood while they have it!