LETTERS: Being a mother is a dream come true, but being a mother who is always there for her children is more difficult.
Working from home due to the pandemic and not being able to send the children to school is difficult. Mothers are gifted because they can read their children's emotions, mood swings and behaviours.
Today's children face their own struggles in being quarantined at home. Poor Internet connection, sharing gadgets with the siblings, a full schedule of online classes and handling homework by themselves are just a few of their challenges.
Every child faces his or her own difficulties. Some kids have everything they need. They can play outside their garage and their parents can buy them whatever they want. But what about children who are less fortunate or underprivileged?
We want to share our experience in coping with the challenges. While doing online classes daily, it is crucial for mothers to conduct interactive and interesting activities to polish their children's language skills.
Involving them in chores and simple tasks will help them become self-sufficient .
Language activities and appropriate chores to do with the kids, according to their age, are listed below:
A. For 1 to 3 years old — Sing ABC and 123, teach them colours and comparison (short/tall, hot/cold). For chores, tell them to keep their own toys and throw things in the dustbin.
B. For 4 to 6 years old — They can do reading, spelling as well as recognise words, colouring and even simple drawing. For chores, teach them how to fold clothes and clean the bedroom.
C. For 7 to 9 years old — They can read story books or comics and play word games. For chores, wash dishes or vacuuming.
D. For 10 to 12 years old — They can create story books or stories and even photobooks using apps. For chores, they can mop the floor or do simple cooking.
Mothers are encouraged to recognise their children's interests and what types of learners their children are. If they are into physical activities, role-playing or charades would be suitable for them.
Mothers also should know their and their children's limits. Do not push them so hard in completing all the activities. Give them breaks. Always choose fun and interactive methods as children's attention span is rather short.
Reading for 10 to 15 minutes every day with each child is a must. This will strengthen the bond between mothers and children while also improving their vocabulary.
Before sleep, ask them questions like "What makes you happy today?" and "What makes you sad today". It will teach them to identify and express their feelings.
When encouraging them to express their feelings, mothers should always be present, stay positive and acknowledge the feelings they share to build trust between the parent and child.
Children may not remember what their mothers bought them, but they will remember what their mothers do with them.
Make the best memories in our children's lives as they are the ones that they will remember in the future.
AYUNI AKHIAR
Universiti Sains Malaysia
NURSYUHADA AB WAHAB
Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times