SGSecure-themed storybooks for preschoolers to be rolled out this month

Key Concepts:

• SG Secure movement
• Preschool emergency preparedness
• Suspicious package identification
• Community support during emergencies
• Storytelling as a learning tool
• Evacuation drills
• Role-playing emergency scenarios

1. Introduction of SG Secure Initiative and Storybooks

• Singapore's preschools are being taught how to respond to terrorist attacks using storybooks.
• The books are designed to help children identify danger signs, such as suspicious packages, and encourage them to support each other during emergencies.
• This initiative is part of the SG Secure movement.
• The books will be available in all licensed preschools and Ministry of Education (MOE) kindergartens starting this month.
• Public libraries will stock them in May.

2. "Hammy" Storybook Launch and Content

• The children's story follows "Hammy," a small town hero who foils a villain's plans and helps his city recover from an attack.
• Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling launched the storybook in front of 20 preschoolers.
• The goal is to prepare young readers to take action during dangerous situations.

3. Practical Application and Evacuation Drills

• Preschoolers practice evacuation drills, similar to those conducted twice a year in preschools.
• The curriculum includes identifying suspicious items and safe zones.
• The drills and stories reinforce what they've learned.

4. Parental Perspectives and Real-World Application

• Parents believe the books help children understand how to respond to emergencies they see on the news.
• One parent mentioned using the book to explain a recent incident and what to do when people need help, such as calling an adult.

5. Storytelling as a Central Curriculum Component

• The goal is to make storytelling central to the curriculum.
• This helps children retain information and encourages them to become heroes themselves, not just read about them.

6. Key Quotes

• "It helps them to remember, though, and how we would know whether it." - Teacher discussing the benefits of the storybooks.
• "So what we need to do when people need help and of course the can help when you're seeing the India to get the call someone older to help." - Parent explaining how they use the book to teach their child about emergencies.

7. Synthesis/Conclusion

The initiative aims to equip young children with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to emergencies, fostering a sense of community support and preparedness through engaging storytelling and practical drills. The program integrates emergency preparedness into the preschool curriculum, using relatable stories and hands-on activities to empower children to recognize danger, seek help, and act responsibly in crisis situations.