We often think of parents learning from educators. But meaningful partnerships go both ways.
Whether through a thoughtful conversation, a shared experience, or a different perspective on a child, parents often leave lasting lessons of their own. In these stories, five educators reflect on what they have learnt from the families they work with — and how those moments continue to shape their practice every day.
LESSON #1: DON'T STOP LEARNING
Ms Li (right) learning how to prune plants from Ms Yo-chi.
After nearly 20 years in the classroom, Ms Li Lin Jing found herself learning alongside a parent.
Through parent volunteer Ms Chang Yo-chi, who devotes a few mornings each week to maintaining the preschool's garden, Ms Li observed the dedication of a working parent who still makes time to attend weekend gardening courses. She was reminded that curiosity and learning can continue, despite life's responsibilities.
LESSON #2: TAKE TIME TO LISTEN
Ms Koh’s chats with parents often reveal valuable insights about the children.
What seems like a quick exchange at dismissal can offer a deeper understanding of a child.
Through regular chats with parents, Ms Christabel Koh has learnt to pay attention to the small but meaningful insights families share about what motivates and supports their children beyond the classroom. Today, these everyday conversations create opportunities to better understand and support each child intentionally.
LESSON #3: GET THE WHOLE PICTURE
Understanding what children are like at home helps Ms Kunasegaran better support them in preschool.
When a parent described their child as chatty and confident at home, Ms Sangeetha Kunasegaran was struck by how children can present themselves differently across settings.
The insight reshaped how she approaches teaching and learning. Rather than viewing behaviour in isolation, she began to place greater value on understanding each child's experiences beyond preschool, focusing on their unique strengths, interests and needs.
LESSON #4: SHARE THE GOOD AND THE BAD
Positive updates can be just as important as difficult conversations.
A parent's simple request stayed with Ms Anandhi Mageshkanna: don't only call when something goes wrong.
The feedback prompted her to think differently about how and when families are kept in the loop. By encouraging educators to share everyday moments of progress and joy — not just concerns — consistent, positive communication with parents became more balanced, building trust over time.
LESSON #5: VALUE EACH OTHER AS PARTNERS
Parent volunteers remind Ms Tan (right, in white) of the power of home-preschool partnerships.
Seeing one parent repeatedly volunteer their time and energy for preschool activities opened Ms Sharon Tan's eyes to the many ways families can contribute to the preschool community.
Today, she encourages educators to listen first, understand different family perspectives, and work alongside parents. She also recognises the importance of families contributing in ways that are meaningful to them, as partners supporting their child.
