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A couple of articles are added each month with many more articles provided in the CAS's Maple Leaf Times (eMLT) magazine. To receive your eMLT magazine sent directly to your inbox (8 issues per year), become a member of the Canadian Association of Singapore. Visit the CAS website to register -- www.canadians.org.sg

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Academic Success: It all Starts with Play


Play is more than fun—it’s essential for a child’s development. It builds critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and social skills that are key to academic success and lifelong learning. Research shows children learn best when actively engaged, yet play is often undervalued in education. At Canadian International School (CIS), we recognise its importance and prioritise meaningful, uninterrupted playtime.

This is why we introduced Outdoor Play and Learning (OPAL) into our curriculum. OPAL is an award-winning programme that enhances play in schools by providing open-ended materials like tyres, planks, and ropes, sparking curiosity and creativity. Unlike traditional playgrounds, OPAL fosters diverse play experiences:
  • Exploratory play— Testing ideas and materials
  • Imaginative play— Creating new worlds and narratives
  • Social play— Building collaboration and communication skills
  • Physical play— Developing motor skills and confidence

A Lasting Impact on Student Success

As a top International Baccalaureate (IB) school, CIS nurtures inquisitive, independent learners. OPAL supports this by giving students ownership of their learning through exploration, questioning, and hands-on experiences—key elements of the IB inquiry-based model.

Andrew Marshall, primary principal at CIS, shares that since implementing OPAL, the school has seen remarkable improvements in student engagement, behaviour, and well-being. Play has become a powerful tool for fostering inclusivity, leadership, and confidence. Teachers report fewer behavioral incidents, while students return to class more focused, particularly in creative subjects. Parents also notice their children applying problem-solving and social strategies beyond school.

“As we continue to refine OPAL with student input, we remain committed to fostering a love for learning through the power of play—building confident, capable learners prepared for the future,” he adds.

Join us at the CIS STEAM Fair on Saturday, 8 March.

Interested to find out more about how CIS inspires a lifelong love of learning in our students? Come to the CIS STEAM Fair on 8 March, 11 am to 3 pm! It’s the perfect chance to explore our campus, try hands-on activities, and discover how learning can be exciting and full of wonder. Register here and join us for a day of fun, curiosity, and creativity for all ages! 

Ask the Dentist: Is charcoal toothpaste a whitening hack or a risky trend?

 



Charcoal toothpaste has gained popularity for its promise of a whiter smile. Made with activated charcoal, it is believed to absorb stains and plaque, helping to brighten teeth. However, is it truly safe?

Activated charcoal is a porous substance used in various products. Charcoal toothpaste works by scrubbing away surface stains. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that there is insufficient evidence to prove its safety or effectiveness in whitening teeth.

Charcoal toothpaste can be abrasive. It removes stains by wearing away the outer enamel — a process that can cause long-term damage.

Risks of Charcoal Toothpaste


While it may temporarily whiten teeth, charcoal toothpaste comes with significant risks:

  • Abrasiveness – It can wear down enamel, leading to sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. Note that enamel loss is irreversible.
  • Lack of fluoride protection – Most charcoal toothpastes do not contain fluoride, which is essential for cavity prevention and enamel protection.
  • Gum irritation – The rough texture can cause gum inflammation, bleeding, and even recession.
  • Stains on restorations – Crowns, veneers, and fillings may absorb charcoal particles, causing discolouration over time.
Due to these risks, charcoal toothpaste is not recommended for daily use. Safer alternatives include:
  • Professional whitening – Consult your dentist for safe and effective whitening treatments.
  • Regular cleanings – Routine dental check-ups help maintain a bright smile without damaging enamel.
Before trying new dental products, consult your dentist to ensure it's safe for your oral health.

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Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group®. He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute  and Clinical Teacher at the GKT Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated  with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and  implant restorative dentistry. He also enjoys seeing children.
www.specialistdentalgroup.com | (65) 6733 7883