#138 Baby Bonus

Jasmine and I just found out that the cash gift was raised to $6000 last year, from $4000. Essentially, that ensures the actual delivery is paid for. What a fillip!

#137 Older sisters

Being an older brother, I've always believed older sisters do a better job with their younger kin. I believe Sarah will be an awesome older sister, and that Emma and her will have as strong a bond asJasmine  and Angela's. Instead of sibling rivalry, we will have sibling chivalry. 

#131 Growing up

I am secretly gonna miss taking Sarah to the potty at home. After all, there will come a time when I can't, and you don't know what you have till it's gone. =[

#78 Students' parents

Love 'em or hate 'em, getting parents on board is the first step to succeeding with teaching children. I was at first reticent to connecting with them, but I realise most parents are like me - a little too busy for their own good, a little misguided, but still wanting the best for their child. Once we acknowledge that, you'll realise engaging them is better than not doing so. While not all may agree, I provide my personal mobile number to them, to facilitate communication. Over the years, the grateful parents have far outweighed those who abuse the privilege (I can think of just one). So, to the people without whom I would not even have children to teach.

#22 Teaching

Despite many gripes, being a teacher is the best thing I can ask for. There is nothing like being responsible for the learning of children when they are still at the malleable age, when they're still shorter than you. Being with children is one of the few times I can be silly and not so self-conscious. Children really do bring out extremes in you. In any case, I can see it as training for fatherhood. At least with fatherhood, no one's gonna ask you how you've value-added to your child, and whether you can complete the milk-drinking syllabus on time. Now excuse me while I collect some forms...