Forum Letter Replies
We Agree
We thank Madam Samantha Gail D’Cotta for her letter, ‘Be family friendly’ (10 October 2009). While Children’s Day and Teachers’ Day have traditionally been celebrated in Singapore schools on Oct 1 and Sept 1 respectively, we agree that scheduling these school holidays on a Monday or Friday would be a family friendly move and will look into her suggestion.
Be Family Friendly (Madam Samantha Gail D’cotta, ST Forum, 10/10, p40)
Children’s Day on Oct 1 fell on a Thursday this year. Why can’t the Children’s Day holiday, or similar school holidays like Teachers’ Day, fall on a Friday or Monday instead? They are not religious holidays and can be moved. Schools can celebrate Children’s Day on the date itself (Oct 1), and declare the following Monday or Friday a holiday. It would be more family friendly for all: Parents can take leave that day and plan a long weekend at home or a short holiday. It will more meaningful to call it ‘Children’s Day weekend’ instead of just a day in the middle of the week.