At Roots & Boots, our preschool lives and breathes in the heart of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Here, our children enjoy a unique classroom that unfolds across lush greeneryâwhere every encounter with nature can spark curiosity, build character, and cultivate respect. One such moment came when a lone macaque unexpectedly joined our snack time, walking alongside us for nearly 800âŻmetres.
Monkeys are frequent visitors to Singaporeâs parks, and itâs essential our children learn to share these spaces respectfully. We begin by nurturing a harmonious mindset: this garden is both their home and ours, and we coexist with mindful awareness.
Part of our daily rhythm includes simple but meaningful routines. The children are reminded to keep their snack boxes closed after eating, avoid leaving food unattended, and to pack up neatly. These small habits may seem simple, but they build important life skillsâresponsibility, awareness, and discipline. Even when we donât see monkeys, we practise these behaviours to stay prepared and respectful.
When the monkey appeared during snack time, some children were startled. A few froze, others instinctively ran, and some toddlers cried out of fear. This moment quickly became a powerful opportunity for situational learning. We guided the children gently: no screaming, no running, and no eye contact. We encouraged them to stay calm and close together. By standing united, the group appeared larger and less vulnerable. The children also learnt how to use a stickânot to harm, but to extend their presence and feel more confident if needed.
This moment also invited the older preschoolers to step up. Some helped the younger ones pack their belongings, others offered reassurance with their words or held a friendâs hand. These acts of empathy and leadership were heartwarming to witness.
After the encounter, we gathered the children to reflect. We talked about how they felt when the monkey appeared, and whether they had been mindful about their belongings. We discussed what they did well and what they could do differently next time. These reflections deepen their self-awareness, emotional regulation, and sense of responsibility. It becomes more than just a momentâit becomes a meaningful memory that shapes their growth.
Monkeys are a vital part of our ecosystem. While they can be amusingâespecially the babies!âwe remind the children that they are still wild animals. Just like how our mummies look out for us, monkey mothers protect their young, and we must always observe from a respectful distance.
The learning from this moment was clear and profound. The children werenât just practising animal safetyâthey were growing in self-awareness, discipline, and empathy. In moments like these, nature truly becomes our third teacher.
