Aspiring young talents took to the stage in SAFRA’s latest contest for little ones, this year with a new Majulah! Category. SAFRA Lil’ Stars is an annual talent competition that provides a platform for some of Singapore’s brightest to showcase their abilities to a judging panel and adoring audience. The finals of this sixth edition were held on Sunday, 8 July, at SAFRA Toa Payoh.
Open to children between 5 and 12 years old, the event welcomed participants to perform a song or dance item solo or in a group, with support from their family or friends. The six categories for this year’s Lil’ Stars included junior solo (sing/dance) for children aged 5 to 8, solo (sing/dance) for those 9 to 12 years old, group (5 to 12 years old), and the new Majulah! family category, whereby children, together with their parents or other relatives, performed a song or dance that evoked nation building.
Performers dressing in red and white to show off their patriotism was encouraged as well. The top performers in each of the contest categories won cash and attractive prizes, while all participants walked away with a goodie bag each. As part of this year’s finals, there was a special appearance by 2017 SAFRA Lil’ Stars winners Riszuan and Sarah, and a performance by students from Distinct Creative Arts. Apart from the main prizes for the various categories, additional prizes were handed out to best dressed contestants and acts that gained the most votes via SMS from the audience. All in all, the performers went through a fun and invaluable learning experience, performed to their heart’s content, and took home mementos, including plenty of photos and fond memories shared with loved ones.
Injecting positivity into children’s lives, so that they feel happy and self-fulfilled in their development, is something all parents should strive for. A positive sense of self is one of the greatest gifts children can have as they overcome challenges in life.
1. Praise the effort
Focus praise not only on results but on the effort. Confidence comes from doing, trying and knowing that they have done their best, regardless of the outcome. We hope our children put in the effort into all they do and work towards their goals.
2. Give constructive advice
When your children repeat mistakes, it’s easy to use harsh words. Avoid harsh criticisms and demeaning comments. Be specific in areas of improvement and present change as an opportunity.
3. Love is unconditional
Remember to let your children know that you love them even when they fail or make bad decisions. Don’t underestimate the impact of telling them that you love them. Reinforce your pride in them and your appreciation of having them.
