I learned about the Kumon Program in 2000 when I began working as a teacher at Stonyhurst Southville International School. I observed how learners enhanced and developed their math and reading abilities through the Kumon Method of Learning. I also experienced how younger students endured the difficulties and challenges of completing their worksheets beyond their ages and grade levels.
All students who entered and left the Center after their Kumon sessions depicted their own tale. There were students who were accompanied by their parents going to the Center who acted as their cheerers, there were students who stayed longer in the Center, there were students who could readily move up to the next level, and there were students who attended their Kumon sessions patiently and eventually chose to give up or have a break.
My Reason for Choosing Kumon
One of the most significant things about Kumon that influenced me as an educator is its big contribution to the development of a child’s foundational abilities in reading and numeracy.
I was really confident that the Kumon Method of Learning is a strong support for parents in creating their children’s love for learning.
Last 2013, I enrolled my son in the Kumon Reading Program. He was three years old at that time. The Kumon Reading Program has become my strong and effective partner in introducing Sean to the wonders of reading books. As a way of providing support, I make sure he never misses his homework. I make sure that I am next to him every time he does his Kumon homework. The Kumon Reading Program has inspired me a lot in developing Sean’s passion for reading and enriching his vocabulary. This has helped him win competitions in spelling.
Learning after Learning
As a parent, my son’s academic accomplishments are not the only ones that make me believe in the Kumon Program. I can see that my son has learned a lot of values and acquired a positive attitude. His self-discipline and study habits are developed by doing his homework every day.
As a six year-old preschool student doing both the Math and Reading Programs, I understand that my son still has a lot of difficulties to face to complete the program. But I also understand that, behind those difficulties and sacrifices, are the lovely lessons in life. We will always be grateful to have my son part of the Kumon Program.
Raquel Plata (Mother of Sean Raffaele Plata), Stonyhurst Center
