A look at the first Cookies & Coffee Workshop
on 29 July Friday, titled “Using Children’s Literature
to Teach Values”
“I’ve learnt that reading
with children is a must for bonding and for imparting values”,
enthused Mrs. Heng Hui Mein after the workshop. Mrs. Lim Peck Hoon
agreed, saying “This was a good reminder that I need
to take greater responsibility in passing on the right values to
my children.”
Set in an inviting environment with cream sofas, pink cushions
and the aromatic scents of freshly brewed coffee, many workshop
participants appreciated the relaxing setting and its conduciveness
for learning and discussion.
Over the course of two hours, Mrs. Patricia Koh, the speaker for
the evening, helped them see how powerful literature can be –
to influence and change the attitudes and behaviour of our children.
“It’s one thing to tell your children the do’s
and don’ts all the time, and it’s quite another to impart
important values to them through reading together”,
Mrs. Patricia Koh explained.
“Since these stories can be so powerful, we must select
them carefully for our children.
Imparting values is both a privilege and a responsibility of us
parents; we mustn’t leave it to other people or to chance.”
 Many
parents were so inspired that evening that they left armed with
a fresh resolve to start reading with their children every day.
They also appreciated the practical ideas like starting a book box
that espouses values harmonious with their beliefs and a family
journal to record their children’s life history. Some found
the story collection penned by Mrs. Patricia Koh so helpful that
they bought 2-3 sets of “A-Story-A-Day”.
“I’m going to tell my daughter Valencia about
giraffes now – that they go out in pairs, always looking out
for each other; I think this will help to cultivate mutual love
and support between the siblings”, quipped Mrs. Serene
Ho, when sharing about her “A-ha!” lesson.
The Cookies & Coffee Workshops run
once a month till November. Priced at $20, Pat’s Schoolhouse
parents enjoy a special $10 discount. This includes a free copy
of A-Story-A-Day children’s book, penned by Mrs. Patricia
Koh herself, worth $8.
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