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JANUary- June 2022
MY LIFE
MY DREAM
Raiyan Bin Harun Caiomhe Dasha Ordoñez
KUMON FEATURE
Instructor’s Quotes
FAMILY ARTICLE
Lighting The Path to the Future
editor’s Note If there is one thing that the COVID-19 pandemic pushed forward, it is the use of online platforms to continue children’s learning situation. It all started with the gradual use of online messaging and video conference applications until systems came into place to help both the teachers and the students be more comfortable and easily adapt to the new learning mode. As this option for learning is here to stay and as more technological advancements come to play, the academic and life skills developed in Kumon will help students adjust and adapt to this set-up smoothly. Our three featured stories are testaments to these as they share how the program developed their self-learning ability and helped them easily get used to online learning. Raiyan Bin Harun developed not only an advanced understanding of math, but also a love for the subject and the independence to tackle even the most difficult problems and challenges. This attitude has led him to find a balance between work and play as he pursues his electrical engineering degree. For Caoimhe Dasha Ordoñez, Kumon was an interesting way for her to develop knowledge and social and communication skills. All these skills, plus her good study habits, put her at an advantage as she tackles remote learning both in school and in Kumon. As for the Padilla family, Mrs. Josephine Padilla has always been a believer that preparation is the key to her children’s success. This has proven true as enrolling in Kumon has led to her three daughters developing the needed skills, the right mindset, and endless motivation to finish what they start.
We hope that these stories inspire you to continue guiding your children in their online learning journey. Potential Editorial Team
Contents
Kumon Philippines
My Life, My Dream
03 Finding My Balance
06
ON THE COVER Jan-Jun 2022 Caiomhe Dasha Ordoñez
Raiyan Bin Harun
The First Step to Confidence Caiomhe Dasha Ordoñez
Features
09 Regional Article
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Kumon Philippines Have something to say? Feel free to send us your thoughts on the newsletter! Manila Office Tel: (02) 8885-0226 Cebu Branch Office Tel: (032) 263-3419 E-mail: publications@kumon.ph Website: ph.kumonglobal.com INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY NOTICE The logos, graphics, pictures, design, and layout (“Contents”) of this entire newsletter are the exclusive property of Kumon Asia & Oceania Pte Ltd. The Contents contained in this newsletter shall not be reproduced or copied without the express written consent of Kumon Asia & Oceania Pte Ltd. © 2021 Kumon Asia & Oceania Pte Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Instructors’ Quotes
Regulars 13
Family Article
Lighting the Path to the Future
My life, my dream
Finding My Balance How Kumon Helped A Young Man Discover Himself and His Capabilities
Math is often the subject that students have difficulty with or fear. This was the case for Raiyan Manzur Bin Harun. “I was generally bad at math which was why my mom decided to enroll me in Kumon. She taught me basic arithmetic and problem solving, but I was very slow in taking down the problems mentally, and I had poor attention span as I tended to focus on the other things I see and think of.” Despite the challenges along the way, Raiyan’s Kumon experience has been a gift as it has helped him find his footing and the balance between work and play as he pursues his electrical engineering degree.
Raiyan, what were your challenges in your Kumon study? How did you overcome them? My biggest challenge in Kumon was the repetitions. Doing the same thing over and over again over time was tiring, especially when the solutions were very long. Mastery was the word that came to my mind when I had to do repetitions, so I had to overcome them one way or another. What made it possible for me to overcome it was pushing myself to focus on one matter before tending to another. This is because I am highly likely to lose focus on a subject when something distracts me, making me lose sense of what I just learned and repeat the whole thing again.
Were you already a self-learner before joining Kumon? I was not a self-learner since my mom would always help me understand things I found difficult and confusing. I was over-reliant with her. While it helped me at times, it became a burden for both of us over time. Kumon developed my self-learning ability because of the repetitions as I get to see and correct my errors – and learn from them in the process. Jan - Jun 2022
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How did you manage your time between Kumon and other activities? This was quite a challenge, honestly. In my first month in Kumon, I had struggles adjusting my lifestyle and time between school, play, and Kumon. As time passed, I started to get the feel of how my body was able to do all these things. I also managed the little things in my life, such as eating, sleeping, and doing minor household chores.
How does Kumon help you in school? As an electrical engineering student, I did not expect that I would still be experiencing repetitions with my written work, lab work, and homework. The ability to self-learn continues to help me gather my thoughts, integrate what I understand, and use my own method based on my understanding (without changing the ideas in the textbooks). It also taught me to be open to others and ask them what kind of methods they are using because there are times that what I do may not work or be correct. 4 Potential Philippines
What/who was your inspiration to complete the program? I was inspired by my family, especially my mother, who worked so hard so I could be who I am today. She was struggling between doing her office work and helping me understand a simple topic. She did all she could to balance her time until she decided that she needed external help, which is Kumon. I still needed her help with Kumon and school at times, but it was more on clarifying things I had learned.
My life, my dream
How did Kumon develop/change you? Overall, I really think that Kumon has changed my way of living, which is to help me with balance. When I was starting in the program, my root problem was not really about repetitions or my mental ability, but it was my sense of balance. Now, I have realized that I was in disarray then, and my whole schedule was not balanced. I started to manage my time properly and keep things in order because of Kumon. Also, I have become a flexible person who assesses a difficult situation, finds a solution, and solves the problem with the help of the people around me. I have become open to the possibilities around me and coming across different kinds of people with different ways of thinking. My characteristic of being shapeless like water has helped me realize that life is whole and balanced and that I can influence people by sharing myself and my knowledge.
What advice can you give to current Kumon students who are experiencing difficulties and who dream of completing the program? To all the Kumon students who are struggling, and to all the Kumon students who dream of completing the program— never give up. Persevere. Learn how to rest, and quit only when you are done. There is nothing wrong with resting and being distracted for a little while. While getting an award in Kumon might not be big enough for others, do not let their thoughts knock you down. This is your own moment to shine and rejoice! Enjoy the little things in life that make you happy! From achieving something by learning new things to getting a heavy, shiny medal or trophy, be happy with what you have achieved and what you do best. (And believe me or not, I am delighted to be able to finish the Kumon Program as this is one of the biggest awards I am happy to have!)
Jan - Jun 2022
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My life, my dream
The First Step to Confidence How the Kumon Math Program Developed A Young Girl’s Confidence to Self-Learn
Taking the first step in developing a young child’s skills can be difficult when one does not know where to start considering the amount of information available. For Ms. Karen Ordoñez, she was able to find a good program for her daughter, Caiomhe Dasha, through a television advertisement. “I initially thought of Kumon as an interesting way to develop Dasha’s social and communication skills as well as her knowledge. Also, it seemed to be a good starting point for her since she was just four years old at that time.” Fast forward to 2022, Dasha has greatly benefitted from the habits and skills she has developed through the program especially as she tackles remote learning in school and in Kumon.
Dasha, do you experience any difficulty with your worksheets? What do you do to make it easier for you? Yes, I sometimes experience difficulties when answering my worksheets. I just try to understand the question and remember what my teacher taught me to make it easier for me.
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Were you already a self-learner before enrolling in Kumon? No, but as time passed by, I slowly developed the confidence and skills to become a self-learner. I guess the daily worksheets keep me going and help me remember my previous lessons and continuously develop techniques I have learned.
Mommy Karen, how do you support Dasha in her Kumon study especially in her low moments? I support her all the way by reminding her how we started with Kumon. I also always let her know that I appreciate her patience and hard work, and how we are a team every time.
How has Kumon helped Dasha excel in school and in her extra curricular activities? How do your parents motivate you to answer your worksheets and reach your goal? My mom helps me whenever I have challenges. She motivates me by setting a fixed Kumon time, which means that as soon as I finish answering my daily worksheets, I can do whatever I like and want.
Kumon helped develop in Dasha the consistency, determination, and confidence to self-learn. This has led her to have her own study time on a daily basis, and to become a math quiz bee champion. She is always so excited and confident whenever she is selected to participate and represent her school and section in any math competition.
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My life, my dream
How has Kumon helped your child adapt to the current learning situation? Since she has developed focus, Dasha can easily learn and participate during online class even when there are background noises and when it is tempting to be lazy while in the comforts of the house. It is still challenging for us as I am also working from home; but we overcome it with me extending my patience and finding ways for us to be both productive and excited with the sessions.
Dasha, how has Kumon prepared you for the current learning setup? Kumon has developed my confidence in answering math problems and applying the techniques that I have learned in a short span of time. Also, it has made me independent enough to answer worksheets and homework even if my mom is busy or not around. I’ve noticed that I have been getting higher grades and being given the chance to participate in math quiz bees and tournaments.
How is your experience with remote learning in Kumon? At first, it was very challenging because of the internet connection and the change in set-up with my teacher being online. But after a while, I became used to it and have developed the focus to answer worksheets as my teacher is observing me and talking to other students as well.
Mommy Karen, how has Kumon helped prepare your child for the future? Kumon helped her prepare by developing her confidence and willingness to share her knowledge. Whenever she has a classmate who is having a hard time understanding the lesson, she’s more than willing to explain it and help. I firmly believe that I made the right decision back then to take the first step with Kumon. I highly recommend the program as a foundation and first stepping stone in developing a confident and responsible child.
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Regional Article
Jan - Jun 2022
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A
s the world eases COVID-19 restrictions, many of us can’t help but look back at how this crisis has transformed many things around us, and sped up the adoption of digital technologies by many years. Education was one
such sector which took a quantum leap under the new shifts. When the crisis forced schools and learning centers to close their doors and move classes online, all students were also forced to become online learners. Kumon, like many other education providers, also embarked on the remote learning journey. The Kumon Method is a learning method that is designed for home study, and aims to foster independence in students. Hence, our dedicated Instructors are still able to provide online instruction to students learning at home, just like how they do it in the Centers. One key strength of this hybrid study model is that, Instructors can observe how students study at home, and grasp how parents engage with their children. Through this, Instructors are able to work together with parents to enhance the quality of their child’s home learning. Many parents may see this sudden shift as a watershed moment for remote learning and education. How would the conventional classroom learning be like from now on? With this best hybrid study model, students are able to enjoy and continue their learning in Center or at home; by combining both online with physical lessons. Unlike a conventional classroom where a teacher stands in front of the class to teach, Kumon’s instructions are individualized. Every student learns a level that is “just-right” for them, and at their own pace. In this way, they are allowed to navigate through the level at their own pace, without the need to wait for their peers or feel pressured to catch up with the rest of the class. Also, not only do they gain better understanding on the concept, they become more confident as they are able to learn the concepts without being taught. An ability which Kumon develops is self-learning. The students learn from Kumon’s small-step worksheets, which are designed to help children learn on their own, in small incremental difficulty. Hints and examples are also included at the start of a new learning focus to help children understand the concept better, and to refer to when they run into challenges. Through this learning process, not only do students grasp the concepts better, they develop self-learning ability that transcends beyond the confines of the Kumon Centers. Making the best use of both conventional classroom and home-based remote learning, Kumon can continue to discover the potential of each individual, and develop his or her ability to the maximum; no matter where their learning takes place — in Center ar at home.
Turning Challenges into
Opportunities
10 Potential Philippines
Kumon Feature
Instructors’ Quotes
As the paradigm shifts from in-Center
learning to online learning, Instructors and students have had to grapple with new technology. Find out how the Instructors overcome the new challenge of remote learning, and how they think it might have been beneficial to them and their students.
Jan - Jun 2022
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For Kumon, remote learning isn’t new. But this pandemic made it universal, for ALL teachers and ALL students. Suddenly, learning is no longer contained in a physical space or a fixed time. I salute all Kumon instructors who have quickly adapted to the demands of remote learning in our respective Centers. We have managed to transcend the challenges of running our virtual classrooms and go beyond what is already familiar to us. “A comfort zone is a beautiful place, but nothing ever grows there.” So, to all my dear co-Instructors across the globe: let us continue to BLOOM together. Mabuhay!
Teacher Roanna Santos Kumon Philippines
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I think that Kumon online study is a great opportunity for students to develop themselves continuously towards their study goals through close observation,
guidance and compliment given by Instructors. In addition, Kumon Instructors can promptly communicate with parents to help support their children in the same direction.
Ms. Siriluck Sreesai Kumon Thailand
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Most of my students are back learning in the Center. However, I still offer one or two online classes per week for children studying from home. It’s important to show flexibility in our instruction methods to keep children engaged with their learning and to provide parents with options. Over the last twenty months, we have seen how online instruction is effective: students can maintain adequate progress, have their questions addressed, and still have regular and meaningful contact with the Instructor. This hybrid model provides more options for me as the business owner to develop and grow my Center.
Andrea Rodriguez
Kumon Australia and New Zealand
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Taking over a Center when classes had to shift online was tough initially, as my students and I were still getting to know one another. Communication with the students was more challenging, especially with the reserved and less outspoken ones. But children are more adaptable than adults realize. My students began warming up to the new environment sooner than I expected. I have not only seen them grow more and more independent every week but also become more resilient and less reliant on
the teachers. With patience, I believe every child has the potential to be developed into
Ms. Natasha Leow Kumon Singapore
12 Potential Philippines
a strong self-learner
Family Article
Lighting the Path to the Future How Kumon Prepares My Children For The Future
By: Mrs. Josephine Padilla, mother of Rhea Jeanne, Reyannah Joy, Reyzzah Jasmine As a parent, I have always believed that preparation is key to my children’s success – be it in school or in other activities. This is why I enrolled them in Kumon. I wanted them to practice and master mathematics and reading so that they will not have a hard time in school and in the real world. I want the best for them and I do not want them to experience the hardships I experienced before when I was in school. So how has Kumon helped prepare my children for success?
1. They have developed and honed their skills in both Mathematics and Reading. This has allowed them to excel in both subjects and to be included in competitions that test their capabilities like MTAP, Science and Math Quiz Bowls, Mathematician look-alike contests, Steam UP High, Worldwide Caribou Mathematics contests, International Chemistry Quiz, MTG Philippines, IKMC, and more.
2. They have developed a sense of independence and community. They do not rely on my husband and I anymore when it comes to doing tasks. They help each other solve a problem that is difficult to comprehend. When there are those that they really can’t solve, that is when they seek for my help. They are also happy to teach and share with other people what they have learned. Jan - Jun 2022
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3. They get back up when they fall down. When they get lazy, tired and stressed, I encourage them by giving them a little energy boost – be it snack time or something else. I also tell them that, even though Kumon may be hard, they must always see it as a challenge and a stepping stone to achieve their goal. I remind them of the importance of time management and sticking to their schedule as key factors to success.
4. They have the motivation to finish what they start. Currently, my eldest daughter is the only Completer in the household. As a Math and Reading Completer, she is able to comprehend problems with ease and has become braver and more confident to take on what’s ahead of her. As for my two other daughters who are still Kumon students, they have become more advanced in their studies. They have also become more confident in taking on difficulties by developing a great understanding of solving them.
As a parent, I am motivated to work hard and earn enough because I know that they are doing their part by working hard in their Kumon studies. I am also determined to do my part and always remind myself to:
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Be patient Give encouragement and motivation Not give up despite the struggles Give unconditional love and support
Kumon is a big opportunity that we, as a family, must not take for granted. It is like a guide that gives my children a vision of their path to the future.
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The Origins of the Kumon Method
After more than half a century, his philosophy still continues to help many children develop the ability to reach for their goals and dreams. Kumon offers learning opportunities in more than 50 different countries and regions around the world. Handmade materials created by Toru Kumon for his son (Takeshi) in 1954.
Toru Kumon (Founder of the Kumon Method)