The Malaysian Insight

SOCIAL distancing and other health standard operating procedures in place at kindergartens will not hamper children’s development and social skills, said teachers.

They acknowledged the concerns raised by parents and child development experts, but said playtime and learning activities can be carried out without physical contact.

“It doesn’t mean children cannot learn social skills under these circumstances. They just won’t have physical contact, which is for the sake of their health,” Malaysian Kindergarten Teachers’ Association president Sally Ng told The Malaysian Insight.

Though group activities are no longer held, kids can still communicate with the rest of the class while keeping a safe distance.

“We ask them to speak up and give their opinions, even with social distancing in place. I don’t think it (SOPs) hinders their development,” said Ng.

Teachers also encourage interaction among their charges, who remain in their seats, by keeping classes lively.

This includes incorporating more music and movement elements, replacing outdoor activities, said Miri Preschool Association chairman Sim Siew Fang.

Ng said the most important thing is explaining to children why such changes have to be made.

“When you prohibit children from physical contact, you must give them a reason.

“Teachers must make them understand that not touching others is a way to protect themselves and their friends (from Covid-19).”

Sim agreed, saying kids can end up feeling lonely and isolated if the SOPs are not explained well.

“Teachers have to prepare materials to explain why children can interact differently with their family at home from how they must behave at school.”

Kindergartens were given the green light to reopen on July 1 with SOPs against the coronavirus in place. Close-contact sports and playtime sessions are not allowed.

Sim said she feels sorry for the children who will “graduate” from kindergarten this year, as ceremonies cannot be held.

Sports day, which kids usually look forward to, is also not allowed.

“We’ll have to come up with ways to hold award ceremonies for each child, individually,” said Sim.

The challenge for teachers is planning fun and innovative lessons to hold children’s attention.

“The SOPs are for the sake of children’s health. Protecting their health is also our objective as kindergarten teachers,” added Sim.

“We just have to keep finding ways to make the learning environment interesting.” – July 16, 2020.