Cheers Learning and Assessment Services

19/01/2026

Complimentary Webinar & Charity Event: The Science of Play

Play is more than fun — it shapes the developing brain.
Join us on January 26, Monday from 7pm - 8pm via Zoom for a complimentary webinar cm charity event:

“The Science of Play: How Early Experiences Shape the Brain.”

Designed for preschool educators, early childhood therapists, and parents, this event explores how early play experiences strengthen emotional, cognitive, and language growth.

Speaker's Profile:
Mrs Lee Ming Ying — Registered Educational Psychologist (SPS) & SRP-approved supervisor. She brings over a decade of MOE teaching experience across mainstream and special education settings (Pathlight, SOTA). She previously conducted assessments at DAS, MindChamps Allied Care, and CareCorner ETS, and has served as a lecturer/supervisor at NIE and the College of Allied Educators.

Key Takeaways:
✔ Neuroscience behind play & executive functioning
✔ Play types that build problem-solving & social skills
✔ Guided play strategies for home and classrooms

This webinar is complimentary, and we will also be raising funds for the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) to support children with cancer and their families in Singapore.
Donations are optional, and any contribution is appreciated.

Register here: https://calendly.com/cheerslearning/cheers-webinar-2026?month=2026-01

Learn, share, and give back together.

16/01/2026

27,000 Special Needs Kids in Mainstream School, Some are Undiagnosed

I watched this CNA video on supporting students with special needs in mainstream schools and it made me reflect deeply. Today, we have around 27,000 students with special educational needs in mainstream schools, and many are still undiagnosed. They struggle with school routines, social situations, or behaviour, often without understanding why.

Recently, I met a few young adults who sought assessments on their own. One shared that his parent had hidden an ADHD diagnosis from him. He spent years being punished for impulsive behaviour and received very little support. It was only when he referred himself and started medication that his behaviour and friendships improved significantly.

Many parents fear the “label”. That fear is real. But we also need to consider the cost of waiting. Most families only seek help when something forces it – before national exams (for access arrangements), when gaming becomes a coping mechanism, when school discipline escalates, or even as late as national service or work internship when functioning demands are much higher. By then, precious time is lost.

There is always shock, grief, or hesitation at the start. But denial does not solve challenges. Once families shift towards forward planning and acceptance, things become clearer. Knowing the root cause means knowing how to help.

Assessment is not about defining a child. It is about understanding them so we can support their learning, confidence, and relationships. That, in itself, is a form of love.



https://www.channelnewsasia.com/watch/back-school-supporting-students-special-educational-needs-5827106?

12/01/2026

We are happy to share that CHEERS is renewing our commitment as a Social Enterprise.

Since 2015, our heart has always been in social impact—supporting children and youth with special needs and providing services at highly subsidized rates for families who need them most. We are thankful for the trust from parents, schools, and partners over the years.

As we step into the next phase, we will continue to build an inclusive and supportive community for our clients and their families. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Every child deserves support that is accessible, dignified, and meaningful.

01/01/2026

As we step into a new season, we take a moment to appreciate all the good that has shaped us so far. With gratitude for the journey, we welcome new opportunities to grow, learn, and explore—together.

We’re also excited to share that our refreshed website is now live:
🌐 https://cheerslearning.com

Thank you for being part of our story. Wishing everyone continued growth, good health, and all things well.

24/12/2025

Yesterday, a girl came to me and shared how competitive she feels — how strong her need to win is, even to the point of breaking rules. What stood out was not the competitiveness itself, but how hard she was being on herself.

This is a message I often share with children (and adults) who place immense pressure on themselves:

"You don’t have to be 100% better than everyone else. Nobody is perfect. You just need to be 1% better than yourself yesterday."

This idea, inspired by Atomic Habits by James Clear, helps shift the focus away from constant comparison and perfectionism, and toward personal growth and emotional regulation.

When children learn that progress matters more than winning, they begin to build healthier motivation, resilience, and respect for boundaries.

Sometimes, winning isn’t about being the best — it’s about becoming a little better, one step at a time.

14/12/2025

I recently read this Straits Times story about the “Batik Uncle” of Holland Village celebrating his 100th birthday.
👉 https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/batik-uncle-of-holland-village-celebrates-100th-birthday-in-style

Beyond the celebration, it felt like a tribute to a life marked by consistency and presence. Over the years, he became a familiar part of the neighbourhood — not through grand gestures, but through simply being there.

In a fast-paced world, this story gently reminds us that meaning is often found not in how much we do, but from showing up with purpose and passion over time.

The founder of Wellie Batik has provided tailored batik pieces to a discerning clientele since 1978. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

21/11/2025

Hello dear parents!

It’s officially the season where we all hope to slow down… while our kids somehow power up like little energizer bunnies 🤣

Sending you warm wishes for peace, joy, and beautiful memories with your loved ones this holiday season.
Happy holidays to your family! 💛

22/10/2025

We all need motivation — adults and children alike.
For adults, it might be a paycheck, a coffee break, or a well-deserved vacation.
For children, it might look like a sticker, a toy, or a word of praise.

It’s not bribery — it’s reinforcement. ❤️
Children learn best when their efforts are recognized and encouraged. While tangible rewards can motivate, your intangible gifts — love, quality time, words of affirmation, hugs, and acts of care — make the deepest impact.

Let’s fill our cups of love this week and share it with the little ones (and big ones!) around us. 💕

📸 Credit:

21/10/2025

Supporting the Right Fit: Between Inclusion and Accessibility

For the past three years, I’ve supported a school in understanding children’s learning and social-emotional needs. The school’s commitment to fund assessments for low-income families shows real inclusion in action. 💛

Just today, in a report discussion, a parent shared his fears about moving his child to a SPED school — travel, cost, and uncertainty about the future. Many parents feel the same way too.

But inclusion isn’t about mainstream or SPED; it’s about finding the best-fit environment where a child can learn, connect, and grow. 🌱

Some children thrive with structure and smaller classes; others shine with peers in mainstream settings. What matters most is timely, consistent support so no child falls through the cracks. ❤️

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/children-autism-mainstream-schools-special-education-5388766

CNA speaks to parents, educators and psychologists to explore the growing trend of children with autism entering mainstream schools – and the support and struggles that come with it.

29/09/2025

Reading about the 11-year-old boy who never made it home from school broke my heart. 💔

I can’t stop thinking—were there missed signs? Did he ever get the chance to speak to a counsellor, or have someone really check in on his wellbeing? I can only imagine the regret his teachers and family members are carrying.

In my work, I’ve seen this pattern too often. Many families only step forward when a crisis happens. But by then, the damage can feel overwhelming. I’m working with a teenager now who first came for a consultation four years ago. His parents chose to wait and monitor, hoping things would improve. Today, he’s facing a court case. If support had started then, the story might be very different.

👉 The lesson is clear: It is easier to build strong children than to fix broken men. If help is needed, don’t wait.

Yong Le cried thrice that day; he took his life shortly after school. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

14/09/2025

I’m grateful to have been interviewed by Chinese Zaobao to share one of my client’s growth journeys and some parenting tips on supporting children in today’s digital age.

Mobile phones and online games can quickly become addictive for children. Warning signs often show up early—like withdrawing to use devices, getting upset without screen access, or appearing distracted in conversations.

With early support, consistent family routines, and screen-free play, we can help children grow healthier habits. 🌿

Thank you to the families who allow me to journey alongside you—it’s always an honour.

Cheers

https://interactive.zaobao.com.sg/2025/screen-time/
(Credit: Jacynth Wang, senior writer of Lianhe Zaobao)

01/09/2025

Liverpool vs Arsenal gave us a weekend showdown. ⚽️
Now it’s time for the Monday kickoff—inbox derby, meetings marathon, and coffee as our 12th man. ☕️
Who’s ready?