“Six years have passed in the blink of an eye. Watching you grow day by day moves us beyond words. You will always be our adorable little one, our happiness, and our love.” Every message from parents at the “Em đã lớn” (I’ve Grown Up) exhibition is filled with affection and pride. More than just an annual project in the Grade 1 Life Skills subject, “Em đã lớn” is a ticket that takes parents on a journey back in time to revisit their child’s path of growing up.
A small bowl recalls the very first spoon-fed meal, tiny shoes mark those unsteady first steps, and a cuddly teddy bear brings back the sound of carefree laughter. Every keepsake displayed neatly on the tables tells a story about how the children have grown each day. As they watch the short films capturing their children’s early years, many parents cannot hold back their emotions.
The “I’ve Grown Up” moment truly touches parents’ hearts when their child’s little hands try on a shirt that “no longer fits.” No longer the timid boys and girls of their very first school day, the children now confidently host the program in front of grandparents and parents, know how to take care of themselves, and are ready to support those around them. The exhibition space becomes warmer with smiles, hugs, and shared laughter as parents and children complete bonding challenges together.
Attending the exhibition, Mr. Nguyễn Ngọc Tiệp—parent of class 1 Manila—shared, “Looking back on my child’s growth journey, I feel truly happy and fulfilled. I’m happy not only because my child is becoming more independent each day, but also because they know how to care, share, and empathize with their parents. When searching for a primary school, I hoped to find an environment that would equip my child with knowledge while fostering holistic development in both body and soul. After today’s exhibition, I am even more confident that Dewey is exactly the place I was looking for.”
“I’ve Grown Up” is a learning-through-experience journey designed for Grade 1 students. From preparing the exhibition themselves, finding and bringing back their childhood items, to sharing their early memories, the children demonstrate their independence and maturity to their parents. The project preparation process also helps them develop a range of new skills: planning, task management, teamwork, and presentation skills.
Each small step today will become a big stride on their future path. The little “I’ve Grown Up” badge, along with the message: “I’m grown up now, I’m a Grade 1 student. Please trust me and let me be independent!” is a confident affirmation from Dewey’s young students, ready for the journey of growing up ahead.
