What is your favorite way to celebrate the unique bond of your family? Pick or add your favorite family activity!
Anonymous Poll
41%
Having a big family meal together
64%
Going on a family trip or outing
25%
Sharing stories and looking through old photos
25%
Hosting a family game or movie night
🌍 Happy International Day of Families! 🌍
Today, on May 15th, we celebrate the unique and precious bond that is family. Whether near or far, the love shared within a family is a foundation of support, understanding, and affection.
In our busy lives, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ties that bind us, cherish the memories we've created, and plan new adventures together. Reflect on what family means to you and consider reaching out to those who may be feeling alone. Let’s make this day a reminder of the importance of caring, nurturing, and respecting each other within our families and the larger human family to which we all belong.
💌 Share your favorite family memory or a photo in your family group chat! Let's spread the joy and love that families bring into our lives!
To all parents, guardians, and caregivers, thank you for your dedication and love. Here's to celebrating the wonderful diversity and strength of families around the world!
Today, on May 15th, we celebrate the unique and precious bond that is family. Whether near or far, the love shared within a family is a foundation of support, understanding, and affection.
In our busy lives, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ties that bind us, cherish the memories we've created, and plan new adventures together. Reflect on what family means to you and consider reaching out to those who may be feeling alone. Let’s make this day a reminder of the importance of caring, nurturing, and respecting each other within our families and the larger human family to which we all belong.
💌 Share your favorite family memory or a photo in your family group chat! Let's spread the joy and love that families bring into our lives!
To all parents, guardians, and caregivers, thank you for your dedication and love. Here's to celebrating the wonderful diversity and strength of families around the world!
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🌟 Parenting Hacks for Holiday Travel! 🌟
✈️ Traveling with kids can be a rollercoaster ride, but with a few tips up your sleeve, you can turn it into a smooth journey for the whole family!
👶 Preschooler (Ages 3-5):
- Pack plenty of snacks and activities to keep your little one entertained during the journey.
- Bring along comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket to help them feel secure in new environments.
- Stick to their routine as much as possible to avoid meltdowns – naptime and mealtime schedules are key!
👧 Primary Schooler (Ages 6-12):
- Involve them in the planning process by letting them choose activities or attractions they're interested in.
- Encourage them to keep a travel journal to document their experiences and memories.
- Set clear expectations for behaviour and rules, but also be flexible and allow room for spontaneity and exploration.
👩👧👦 Teen (Ages 13-18):
- Give them some independence by allowing them to plan and navigate parts of the trip themselves.
- Use this time to bond and engage in meaningful conversations – long car rides or plane journeys are perfect for heart-to-heart talks.
- Encourage them to disconnect from screens occasionally and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.
Remember, every child is unique, so be adaptable and patient throughout the journey. Happy travels! ✨🚗🌍
✈️ Traveling with kids can be a rollercoaster ride, but with a few tips up your sleeve, you can turn it into a smooth journey for the whole family!
👶 Preschooler (Ages 3-5):
- Pack plenty of snacks and activities to keep your little one entertained during the journey.
- Bring along comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket to help them feel secure in new environments.
- Stick to their routine as much as possible to avoid meltdowns – naptime and mealtime schedules are key!
👧 Primary Schooler (Ages 6-12):
- Involve them in the planning process by letting them choose activities or attractions they're interested in.
- Encourage them to keep a travel journal to document their experiences and memories.
- Set clear expectations for behaviour and rules, but also be flexible and allow room for spontaneity and exploration.
👩👧👦 Teen (Ages 13-18):
- Give them some independence by allowing them to plan and navigate parts of the trip themselves.
- Use this time to bond and engage in meaningful conversations – long car rides or plane journeys are perfect for heart-to-heart talks.
- Encourage them to disconnect from screens occasionally and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.
Remember, every child is unique, so be adaptable and patient throughout the journey. Happy travels! ✨🚗🌍
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What's your go-to travel hack when journeying with kids?
Anonymous Poll
44%
1️⃣ Pack plenty of snacks
39%
2️⃣ Involve them in planning
46%
3️⃣ Set clear expectations
36%
4️⃣ Encourage independence
Surviving the School Holidays for Busy Bees 🐝
Hey busy parents! With the school holidays upon us, juggling work and kids can feel like a marathon. Here are some tips to help you sail through this holiday season like a pro:
1️⃣ Plan Ahead: Take some time to discuss what activities your kids would like to do during the holidays. This will not only make them feel involved but also help you plan your schedule accordingly.
2️⃣ Set a Schedule: Establishing a daily routine can provide structure for both you and your kids. Plan out specific times for activities, meals, and screen time (optional) to maintain balance.
3️⃣ Delegate Responsibilities: Don't be afraid to ask for help! Whether it's enlisting the support of a spouse, family member, or trusted babysitter, sharing the load can make a world of difference.
Remember, it's okay for your children to experience some boredom during the holidays. It can encourage them to explore new interests and develop independence. You've got this! 💪
Hey busy parents! With the school holidays upon us, juggling work and kids can feel like a marathon. Here are some tips to help you sail through this holiday season like a pro:
1️⃣ Plan Ahead: Take some time to discuss what activities your kids would like to do during the holidays. This will not only make them feel involved but also help you plan your schedule accordingly.
2️⃣ Set a Schedule: Establishing a daily routine can provide structure for both you and your kids. Plan out specific times for activities, meals, and screen time (optional) to maintain balance.
3️⃣ Delegate Responsibilities: Don't be afraid to ask for help! Whether it's enlisting the support of a spouse, family member, or trusted babysitter, sharing the load can make a world of difference.
Remember, it's okay for your children to experience some boredom during the holidays. It can encourage them to explore new interests and develop independence. You've got this! 💪
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Happy Father's Day!
To all the amazing dads out there, we celebrate YOU! 🌟
Being a father is not just about providing, but about being present, supportive, and loving. It's the small moments that create the biggest memories. Here are some ways to show appreciation and make this day special:
👨👧👦 Quality Time: Spend the day doing something fun with your kids. Whether it’s a family picnic, a game night, or a simple walk in the park, make memories together.
📚 Share Stories: Tell your children stories about your own childhood and your experiences as a dad. It’s a great way to bond and pass on family traditions.
Happy Father's Day to all the dads making a difference! Keep shining and being the superheroes your kids look up to. 🌟👨👧👦
To all the amazing dads out there, we celebrate YOU! 🌟
Being a father is not just about providing, but about being present, supportive, and loving. It's the small moments that create the biggest memories. Here are some ways to show appreciation and make this day special:
👨👧👦 Quality Time: Spend the day doing something fun with your kids. Whether it’s a family picnic, a game night, or a simple walk in the park, make memories together.
📚 Share Stories: Tell your children stories about your own childhood and your experiences as a dad. It’s a great way to bond and pass on family traditions.
Happy Father's Day to all the dads making a difference! Keep shining and being the superheroes your kids look up to. 🌟👨👧👦
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We want to hear from you! How are you celebrating Father’s Day this year? 🏆
Vote now and share your plans! Let’s celebrate the wonderful fathers in our lives. 🌟
Vote now and share your plans! Let’s celebrate the wonderful fathers in our lives. 🌟
Anonymous Poll
85%
1️⃣ Spending Quality Time with Family
17%
2️⃣ Sharing Stories and Memories
29%
3️⃣ Doing Fun Activities Together
5%
4️⃣ Writing Heartfelt Notes of Appreciation
15%
5️⃣ Giving Special Gifts
🎬 Inside Out 2 🍿
Hey parents!
Have you heard? "Inside Out 2" is finally here! This movie continues to explore emotions in a fun and engaging way, providing an excellent opportunity for family bonding and learning.
🎥 Why watch it?
1. Emotional Intelligence: Just like the first movie, "Inside Out 2" dives deep into emotions, helping kids understand and express their feelings better.
2. New Feelings: The sequel introduces new emotions such as Embarrassment, Ennui, Anxiety, and Envy. This gives us a fantastic chance to discuss these complex feelings with our children.
💬 After the movie, have a chat with your children about what they saw. Ask questions like:
- "Which new emotion did you like the most?"
- "Can you relate to any of the characters' feelings?"
- "How do you handle your own emotions when you feel like that?"
🇸🇬 To add a local twist, you could:
- Relate Embarrassment to situations like making a mistake during a performance or presentation in class.
- Discuss how Ennui might feel during long, hot afternoons when there’s nothing to do, similar to the lazy days of the June holidays.
- Talk about Anxiety in relation to starting a new school year or trying out for a new activity.
- Relate Envy to feelings when a friend gets a new gadget or toy that they want.
This will help reinforce the lessons from the movie and strengthen your emotional connection with your child. ❤️
Hey parents!
Have you heard? "Inside Out 2" is finally here! This movie continues to explore emotions in a fun and engaging way, providing an excellent opportunity for family bonding and learning.
🎥 Why watch it?
1. Emotional Intelligence: Just like the first movie, "Inside Out 2" dives deep into emotions, helping kids understand and express their feelings better.
2. New Feelings: The sequel introduces new emotions such as Embarrassment, Ennui, Anxiety, and Envy. This gives us a fantastic chance to discuss these complex feelings with our children.
💬 After the movie, have a chat with your children about what they saw. Ask questions like:
- "Which new emotion did you like the most?"
- "Can you relate to any of the characters' feelings?"
- "How do you handle your own emotions when you feel like that?"
🇸🇬 To add a local twist, you could:
- Relate Embarrassment to situations like making a mistake during a performance or presentation in class.
- Discuss how Ennui might feel during long, hot afternoons when there’s nothing to do, similar to the lazy days of the June holidays.
- Talk about Anxiety in relation to starting a new school year or trying out for a new activity.
- Relate Envy to feelings when a friend gets a new gadget or toy that they want.
This will help reinforce the lessons from the movie and strengthen your emotional connection with your child. ❤️
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🎬Which new emotion from Inside Out 2 are you most excited to discuss with your kids?
Anonymous Poll
32%
😳 Embarrassment
24%
😐 Ennui
54%
😟 Anxiety
19%
😒 Envy
Thinking about fostering? Join us at the Fostering Open House 2024 organised by the Ministry of Social and Family Development and learn how you can make a difference in a child’s life.
Happening on 13 July at Suntec Convention Centre, attendees will get the opportunity to hear from foster parents and former foster youth and take part in parenting workshops.
Learn about parent self-care at TOUCH Parenting’s workshop and be equipped with strategies to manage stressors and triggers that get in the way of effective parenting.
Find out more at www.msf.gov.sg/fostering.
Happening on 13 July at Suntec Convention Centre, attendees will get the opportunity to hear from foster parents and former foster youth and take part in parenting workshops.
Learn about parent self-care at TOUCH Parenting’s workshop and be equipped with strategies to manage stressors and triggers that get in the way of effective parenting.
Find out more at www.msf.gov.sg/fostering.
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Navigating Children with a Large Age Gap
In today's family landscape, it's not uncommon to see siblings with significant age differences. While parenting in such setups presents unique challenges, it also brings forth distinct joys and opportunities for growth.
🔍 Tips & Strategies:
- Encourage Understanding: Foster empathy and communication to bridge the age gap.
- Respect Boundaries: Ensure the older child isn't burdened with parental duties.
- Flexibility is Key: Adapt activities to suit varying interests and abilities.
- Address Challenges: Create a safe space for open dialogue about emotions and struggles.
👉 TOUCH Parenting is here to support you through every stage of your parenting journey. From informative workshops to tailored resources, we're committed to empowering parents for success. Learn more about our programmes and services today!
Read more here: https://www.touch.org.sg/about-touch/tips-and-resources/details/2024/04/30/parenting-children-with-a-large-age-gap
In today's family landscape, it's not uncommon to see siblings with significant age differences. While parenting in such setups presents unique challenges, it also brings forth distinct joys and opportunities for growth.
🔍 Tips & Strategies:
- Encourage Understanding: Foster empathy and communication to bridge the age gap.
- Respect Boundaries: Ensure the older child isn't burdened with parental duties.
- Flexibility is Key: Adapt activities to suit varying interests and abilities.
- Address Challenges: Create a safe space for open dialogue about emotions and struggles.
👉 TOUCH Parenting is here to support you through every stage of your parenting journey. From informative workshops to tailored resources, we're committed to empowering parents for success. Learn more about our programmes and services today!
Read more here: https://www.touch.org.sg/about-touch/tips-and-resources/details/2024/04/30/parenting-children-with-a-large-age-gap
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Connecting with Your Teen 👨👩👧👦🧒
Teenage years are a time of immense growth and self-discovery, often making it challenging for parents and teens to communicate effectively.
Read more on how to bridge the gap and build a strong parent-child relationship HERE: https://www.touch.org.sg/about-touch/tips-and-resources/details/2024/06/06/improving-communication-between-parents-and-teens
Teenage years are a time of immense growth and self-discovery, often making it challenging for parents and teens to communicate effectively.
Read more on how to bridge the gap and build a strong parent-child relationship HERE: https://www.touch.org.sg/about-touch/tips-and-resources/details/2024/06/06/improving-communication-between-parents-and-teens
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When Children Turn Into Cats by Adair Lara 🐈
Have you ever realized that children are like dogs? Loyal and affectionate, but teenagers are like cats…
It’s so easy to be a dog owner.
You feed it, train it, boss it around. And yet it still puts its head on your knee and gazes at you as if you were a Rembrandt painting and bounds indoors with enthusiasm when you call it.
Then around age 13, your adoring little puppy turns into a cat. When you tell it to come inside, it looks amazed, as if wondering who died and made you emperor.
Instead of dogging your every step, it disappears. You won’t see it again until it gets hungry. Then it pauses on its sprint through the kitchen long enough to turn its nose up at whatever you’re serving.
When you reach out to ruffle its head, in that old affectionate gesture, it twists away from you, then gives you a blank stare, as if trying to remember where it has seen you before. You, not realizing that the dog is now a cat, think something must be desperately wrong.
It seems so antisocial, so distant.
It won’t go on family outings.
Since you’re the one who raised it, taught it to fetch and stay and sit on command, you assume that you did something wrong.
Flooded with guilt and fear, you redouble your efforts to make your pet behave.
Only now you’re dealing with a cat, so everything that worked before now produces the opposite of the desired result.
Call it, and it runs away. Tell it to sit, and it jumps on the counter.
The more you go toward it, with open arms, the more it moves away.
Instead of continuing to act like a dog owner, you should learn to behave like a cat owner.
Put a dish of food near the door, and let it come to you.
Sit still, and it will come, seeking that warm, comforting lap it has not entirely forgotten.
Be there to open the door for it.
And just remember…
One day your grown-up child will walk into the kitchen, give you a big kiss and say, “You’ve been on your feet all day. Let me get those dishes for you.”
Then you’ll realize your cat is now a dog again!
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From Puppies to Cats: The Teen Transition
Reading about the shift from a loyal puppy to a distant cat can be both eye-opening and heart-wrenching. It’s a reminder of the complex journey through the teen years, where our once affectionate children seem to pull away, leaving us feeling confused and longing for the bond we once had.
It’s easy to feel guilty or anxious, thinking we've done something wrong. But this shift is a natural part of growing up. Just like learning to understand a cat's behaviour, we need to adapt our approach, giving them space while staying connected in ways that matter.
Hang in there! Your teen's journey is just as challenging for them as it is for us. And remember, one day, they’ll come back, and the bond you’ve nurtured will shine through again. 🐾❤️
Have you ever realized that children are like dogs? Loyal and affectionate, but teenagers are like cats…
It’s so easy to be a dog owner.
You feed it, train it, boss it around. And yet it still puts its head on your knee and gazes at you as if you were a Rembrandt painting and bounds indoors with enthusiasm when you call it.
Then around age 13, your adoring little puppy turns into a cat. When you tell it to come inside, it looks amazed, as if wondering who died and made you emperor.
Instead of dogging your every step, it disappears. You won’t see it again until it gets hungry. Then it pauses on its sprint through the kitchen long enough to turn its nose up at whatever you’re serving.
When you reach out to ruffle its head, in that old affectionate gesture, it twists away from you, then gives you a blank stare, as if trying to remember where it has seen you before. You, not realizing that the dog is now a cat, think something must be desperately wrong.
It seems so antisocial, so distant.
It won’t go on family outings.
Since you’re the one who raised it, taught it to fetch and stay and sit on command, you assume that you did something wrong.
Flooded with guilt and fear, you redouble your efforts to make your pet behave.
Only now you’re dealing with a cat, so everything that worked before now produces the opposite of the desired result.
Call it, and it runs away. Tell it to sit, and it jumps on the counter.
The more you go toward it, with open arms, the more it moves away.
Instead of continuing to act like a dog owner, you should learn to behave like a cat owner.
Put a dish of food near the door, and let it come to you.
Sit still, and it will come, seeking that warm, comforting lap it has not entirely forgotten.
Be there to open the door for it.
And just remember…
One day your grown-up child will walk into the kitchen, give you a big kiss and say, “You’ve been on your feet all day. Let me get those dishes for you.”
Then you’ll realize your cat is now a dog again!
—————
From Puppies to Cats: The Teen Transition
Reading about the shift from a loyal puppy to a distant cat can be both eye-opening and heart-wrenching. It’s a reminder of the complex journey through the teen years, where our once affectionate children seem to pull away, leaving us feeling confused and longing for the bond we once had.
It’s easy to feel guilty or anxious, thinking we've done something wrong. But this shift is a natural part of growing up. Just like learning to understand a cat's behaviour, we need to adapt our approach, giving them space while staying connected in ways that matter.
Hang in there! Your teen's journey is just as challenging for them as it is for us. And remember, one day, they’ll come back, and the bond you’ve nurtured will shine through again. 🐾❤️
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Parenting a Third Culture Kid 🌍
A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a child who grows up in a culture different from their parents'. They often mix various cultures into their identity. While this unique upbringing offers rich experiences, it also comes with challenges. TCKs often struggle with feeling truly at home anywhere, face identity confusion, experience frequent goodbyes due to moving, and must balance different cultural expectations.
Tips for Parenting a TCK:
🏠 Create a Sense of Home: Keep routines and familiar spaces to provide stability.
🗣 Open Communication: Talk about the challenges of being a TCK. Validate their unique experiences.
📱 Stay Connected: Help your child maintain relationships across countries using technology.
Parenting a TCK can be a rollercoaster of emotions. You might feel proud of their adaptability and cultural awareness, but also worry about their sense of belonging and identity. Embrace this unique journey filled with both challenges and incredible rewards!
A Third Culture Kid (TCK) is a child who grows up in a culture different from their parents'. They often mix various cultures into their identity. While this unique upbringing offers rich experiences, it also comes with challenges. TCKs often struggle with feeling truly at home anywhere, face identity confusion, experience frequent goodbyes due to moving, and must balance different cultural expectations.
Tips for Parenting a TCK:
🏠 Create a Sense of Home: Keep routines and familiar spaces to provide stability.
🗣 Open Communication: Talk about the challenges of being a TCK. Validate their unique experiences.
📱 Stay Connected: Help your child maintain relationships across countries using technology.
Parenting a TCK can be a rollercoaster of emotions. You might feel proud of their adaptability and cultural awareness, but also worry about their sense of belonging and identity. Embrace this unique journey filled with both challenges and incredible rewards!
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Guiding the Future, Healing the Past🌱✨
As parents, we are not just raising children, we're also healing the child within us. Remember those moments from your own childhood when you wished things were different? Now is your chance to make those changes happen, not just for your kids, but as a way to forgive and understand your own parents' journeys.
We're here to break cycles, to learn from the past, and to provide a brighter, more understanding future for our children. It's about giving them the roots to grow and the wings to fly, while offering compassion to the generation that raised us.
💖 Let’s embrace this dual role with kindness and courage.
💬 Share your experiences or lessons learned from your own childhood that you bring into your parenting. Let's grow together by understanding our past.
As parents, we are not just raising children, we're also healing the child within us. Remember those moments from your own childhood when you wished things were different? Now is your chance to make those changes happen, not just for your kids, but as a way to forgive and understand your own parents' journeys.
We're here to break cycles, to learn from the past, and to provide a brighter, more understanding future for our children. It's about giving them the roots to grow and the wings to fly, while offering compassion to the generation that raised us.
💖 Let’s embrace this dual role with kindness and courage.
💬 Share your experiences or lessons learned from your own childhood that you bring into your parenting. Let's grow together by understanding our past.
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What key lesson from your own childhood do you actively bring into your parenting?
Anonymous Poll
33%
Always expressing love and affection
30%
Prioritizing education and learning
40%
Being more understanding and less punitive
59%
Encouraging independence and responsibility
18%
Fostering creativity and play
Loving is a learning journey. Join us for this 3-hour session where you and your spouse will get to rekindle the connection, celebrate your love, and reaffirm your marriage vows. Register today!
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In today's digital age, children are increasingly exposed to online risks, including sexual grooming and harmful content. This workshop is designed to help parents understand these dangers and equip them with practical strategies to protect their children.
Participants will explore various forms of online harm, such as grooming and sextortion, and learn about their psychological impacts on children. The workshop will also cover trends in online behavior, the risks associated with social media and gaming, and effective communication strategies to foster open discussions about online safety.
By the end, parents will be empowered to safeguard their children's digital experiences.
Registration Link:
https://bit.ly/tcwwebinar2024
Date: 28th Sept 2024 (Sat)
Time: 0930am - 1100am
Format: Online Webinar
Successful registrants will receive webinar link via email, at least 3 days before event.
Participants will explore various forms of online harm, such as grooming and sextortion, and learn about their psychological impacts on children. The workshop will also cover trends in online behavior, the risks associated with social media and gaming, and effective communication strategies to foster open discussions about online safety.
By the end, parents will be empowered to safeguard their children's digital experiences.
Registration Link:
https://bit.ly/tcwwebinar2024
Date: 28th Sept 2024 (Sat)
Time: 0930am - 1100am
Format: Online Webinar
Successful registrants will receive webinar link via email, at least 3 days before event.
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