I try my best not to be a “tiger mum” – we all know what that is, right? The kind of parent who obsesses over academics and exposure and heck-bent that her child has to be successful (read: become a doctor, lawyer or the President). But I do have to admit that the pressures of making sure your child doesn’t “fall behind” later on in school somewhat haunts me. Seeing everybody else compare their children stresses me out sometimes and it takes a moment before I can tell myself to calm down and not get carried away.
Because I wasn’t looking to go back to work, I had the option of deciding that N wouldn’t be sent to school or for any classes until she turns 3 and joins Nursery. I was prepared to take on the responsibility of teaching her whatever I could at home before that. In fact, I was looking forward to it.
But as she grew up and got better at socialising with others, H and I realised that she really loves to be around kids and other small humans. And then one day, N and I were looking out our balcony and I saw a banner on the street of a playgroup that was just across the road. I checked it out and told H about it, then he suggested to give it a go.
So last Monday, N started “school”. It’s a 2hr session every morning for children from 18months to 3 years (ie right before entering Nursery) with teachers and a classroom and a schedule. To be really honest, I am quite half-and-half about this – while I think it’s great that she meets new kids, spends time away from me, learns new things outside the home, I also feel like it’s rather… unnecessary?
I feel like because she’s so young, now is the time that she has to be a young toddler and just play all day before the life and stress of school and education starts later on. And I know, I know.. it’s only 2 hours, it’s not a big deal. But I sometimes struggle with figuring out if we’re spending money on something that isn’t worth it.
I guess all I can do for now is wait it out and see if there’s a difference in N. Whether or not she’s learning well, interacts better with others, grows less attached to me (cue heartbreak).