Behind the cheerful songs and laughter of preschool children lies a world built on patience, care and dedication — a little world lovingly shaped by two key people: the teacher and the assistant.
At Kelas Tabika Perpaduan Taman Matang Jaya, these two hands work in unison, forming one heart. They are Siti Khadijah Abol, a preschool teacher, and Mordiah Mohamad Apandi, the preschool management assistant (PPM) who stands by her side.
Together, they breathe life into this little world — not just through activities, but by weaving values, daily routines, and a nurturing bond that lays the foundation for each child’s journey.
Power of a preschool teacher
“Never underestimate the role of a preschool teacher,” says Siti Khadijah, emphasising how early childhood education is a crucial time for shaping a child’s character and identity.
According to her, a preschool teacher’s role isn’t just to watch over the children or sing with them. It involves broad and complex professional responsibilities.
Each morning between 7 and 7.30, Siti welcomes the children with a smile and a warm greeting. It’s how the day begins — with kindness and connection.
“Morning greetings are important for building children’s confidence. We also make sure they’re clean, healthy and ready for the day.
“After that, they choose free-play activities like toy kitchens or building blocks. I like giving them space to explore and create on their own,” she said.
For Siti, daily routines offer structure and a sense of stability — and consistency, paired with love, is key to successful early education.
Small kitchen, big lessons
While Siti sets the tone for the day, Mordiah quietly prepares the warmth that comes from the kitchen — a space where life values are served alongside food.
“Between 7.30 and 8am, I prepare breakfast based on the set menu. It’s not just about cooking — I make sure everything meets the hygiene and health standards,” said Mordiah.
Before the children eat, she guides them to wash their hands and say a group prayer.
“Mealtime is a chance to teach manners — how to hold a spoon, how to sit properly, how to share and how to clean up. I serve their food gently and patiently and help them throughout the meal.
“After they’ve eaten, they say du’a after eating and learn to tidy up their eating area,” she added.
Mordiah is more than an assistant. She’s a second mother, quietly instilling discipline, kindness and self-care into the children’s daily lives.
Learning begins with play
Siti believes there is only one key to truly connect with children — and that’s through play.
“The play-based learning method makes lessons more fun, effective and meaningful. It suits the nature of children — they love to play, and through it, they absorb information and understand new concepts without pressure,” she explained.
She doesn’t just observe them at play — she joins in.
“When we get involved, we strengthen the teacher-child bond. They feel safe; they trust us — and that’s essential in early education,” she added.
What keeps this preschool running smoothly isn’t just experience or skill — it’s the synergy between both teachers. They move as a team, supporting each other with ease.
“Through teamwork, compassion and care, we create a cheerful, safe and nurturing preschool environment,” said Mordiah.
Their collaboration forms a seamless flow — from the moment children walk through the gate to the time they go home with full hearts and curious minds.
Tiny world, mighty impact
Every corner of this preschool tells a story — not just of ABCs or numbers, but of patience, respect, hygiene and love.
These are values taught not with textbooks but through daily moments shaped by two women who believe early education isn’t just a beginning — it’s a foundation for life.
Siti Khadijah and Mordiah don’t just work side by side. They build this little world with two hands and one heart.
And here, in this small, colourful space filled with voices and joy, the seeds of great character are sown — nurtured by those who work quietly but leave an impact that echoes long after the classroom has fallen silent.
