As the secondary school open house season approaches, many parents are already gearing up to secure a place for their child at their dream school. In this highly competitive environment, it’s no surprise that some parents have resorted to extreme measures, earning the label of “kiasu parents.”
Understanding the Kiasu Mindset
Kiasu, a Hokkien term meaning “afraid of losing,” is a common trait among Singaporean parents. It stems from a deep-seated belief that their children’s education is paramount to their future success. This fear of falling behind drives some parents to engage in excessive behavior to ensure their child has the best possible chances.
Tips for Kiasu Parents
While it’s understandable to want the best for your child, it’s important to approach the open house season with a balanced mindset. Here are a few tips to help kiasu parents navigate the process:
- Research thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the different schools, their academic programs, and extracurricular activities. Visit their websites, attend virtual open houses, and read reviews from current and former students.
- Set realistic expectations: Understand that not every child will be accepted into their first-choice school. Research alternative options and prepare for the possibility of your child attending a school that may not be as highly ranked.
- Prioritize your child’s needs: Keep in mind that your child’s well-being is more important than their academic achievements. Look for schools that align with your child’s interests, learning style, and values.
- Avoid pushiness: While it’s okay to advocate for your child, it’s crucial to be respectful towards school staff and other parents. Don’t try to jump the line or engage in confrontational behavior.
- Be prepared for disappointment: If your child is not offered a place at their preferred school, it’s essential to handle the situation with grace. Reassure your child that there are other great schools out there and support them in exploring alternative options.
Tricks for Kiasu Parents
In addition to the tips, here are some unconventional “tricks” that kiasu parents have been known to employ:
- Camouflage: Arrive at the open house dressed casually to blend in with the crowd and avoid being perceived as overly eager.
- Child proxy: Send your child to the open house instead of attending yourself to gather information and assess the school’s environment without drawing attention to your kiasu nature.
- Multiple applications: Submit applications to multiple schools to increase your chances of securing a place. This tactic is often known as “double-casting.”
- Appeal letters: Write a compelling appeal letter to the school principal if your child is not initially offered a place. Highlight your child’s unique qualities and explain why they would be an asset to the school community.
- Network: Reach out to alumni, current parents, and teachers to gain insights into the school and potentially improve your child’s chances of admission.
Pros and Cons of Kiasu Parenting
While kiasu parenting can have some advantages, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks carefully.
Pros:
- Children may be more motivated to excel academically due to parental expectations.
- Parents may be more actively involved in their child’s education and provide additional support.
- Children may develop a strong work ethic and a sense of determination.
Cons:
- Children may experience excessive pressure and anxiety.
- Parents may overstep boundaries and stifle their child’s individuality.
- Kiasu parenting can create a toxic environment that undermines the child’s happiness and well-being.
Tables for Kiasu Parents
To further assist kiasu parents, here are four useful tables that provide key information about secondary school open houses:
| School | Open House Dates | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Raffles Institution | 29-30 August 2020 | 15 September 2020 |
| Hwa Chong Institution | 19-20 September 2020 | 30 September 2020 |
| Nanyang Girls’ High School | 26-27 September 2020 | 10 October 2020 |
| St. Joseph’s Institution | 10-11 October 2020 | 25 October 2020 |
| School | Academic Program | Extracurricular Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) | IB Diploma Programme | Robotics, Debating, Choir |
| Catholic High School | O-Level, IP Programme | Football, Netball, Drama |
| Methodist Girls’ School (Secondary) | O-Level, IB Diploma Programme | Swimming, Gymnastics, Dance |
| Victoria School | O-Level, Special Programme in Sports | Rugby, Track and Field, Table Tennis |
| School | Admission Criteria | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Dunman Secondary School | GEP, DSA, O-Level results | Phone: 6449 3770 |
| Eunoia Junior College | O-Level results, portfolio | Phone: 6468 8700 |
| Hwa Chong Junior College | O-Level results, DSA | Phone: 6467 7278 |
| National Junior College | O-Level results, CCA records | Phone: 6778 4873 |
Conclusion
Being a kiasu parent is not always easy, but by following these tips and tricks, you can navigate the secondary school open house season with confidence. Remember to prioritize your child’s well-being, set realistic expectations, and approach the process with a balanced mindset. While it’s natural to want the best for your child, it’s important to avoid excessive behavior that may ultimately be detrimental to their happiness and success.
