From Toddler Years to Teen Achievements
The Wong family began their Shichida journey when their eldest son was just 16 months old.
At the time, Michelle Leong was looking for meaningful activities to support her child’s development when a friend introduced her to the Shichida Method. What began as curiosity soon became a long-term commitment, with all three children attending Shichida classes from a young age.
More than a decade later, the Wong children continue to demonstrate the lasting benefits of strong early learning foundations through their academic achievements, musical development and sporting success.
How the Journey Began – A True Shichida Success Story
Michelle Leong first discovered Shichida while searching for activities for her eldest son.
“A friend told me about this early education program called Shichida for young kids where the activities are mind-blowing. I was interested in finding out what it was all about.”
The Wong family quickly realised that Shichida was very different from typical children’s activities.
“This program isn’t like your standard music class or kinder gymnastics. It is a whole-brain training program that uses puzzles, games, flashcards and songs to develop young children’s memory and problem-solving skills.”
Like many parents, the beginning was not always easy.
“Initially, I found it really difficult to keep Alric still through the 50-minute class. I didn’t know if I should persist – now I’m so glad I did.”
Early Signs of Development
As the children grew, the Wong family began noticing clear differences in their development.
“By the time Alric turned two, his concentration improved so much and he was more attentive.”
Their second son Jensen showed remarkable early learning abilities.
“I remember as a toddler he didn’t talk much, then one day I heard him reading a book – he was only two at the time.”
From the age of three, Jensen was already reading books written for older children and was later accelerated a year at school.
He also demonstrated exceptional memory skills and was able to recite Pi to over 250 digits.
Perfect Pitch Discovery
During their Shichida years, Jensen was discovered to have perfect pitch, a rare musical ability.
“When I first discovered it, I was pretty shocked – I didn’t even know what it was.”
Even before formal music lessons, Jensen could hear notes played on the piano and reproduce them accurately.
This early discovery helped support his ongoing musical development.
A Commitment to Giving Their Children the Best Start
For the Wong family, Shichida was never about pushing children academically.
“Some people ask me if I’m trying to raise geniuses – I’m not. I just want to give my kids the best chance to succeed.”
Shichida lessons also gave Michelle ideas for activities to continue at home.
“Attending the weekly Shichida lesson gave me ideas of what I could be doing at home. I like to give my kids a head start.”
The family showed remarkable commitment, travelling from Geelong to Melbourne every week to attend classes.
“The round trip takes three hours by car, and then I spend nearly two hours at the centre with the children.”
Where They Are Today
Many years later, the Wong children continue to excel across multiple areas.
Alric – Academic Scholarship and National-Level Swimming
Alric, now 16 years old, began Shichida as a toddler and continued throughout his early childhood.
Today he is boarding at Caulfield Grammar School on an academic scholarship, reflecting the strong learning foundations developed from an early age.
He has also achieved national-level success in swimming, qualifying for the National Age Swimming Championships on the Gold Coast for the past two years.
Alric has a strong musical background. He studied violin for six years before transitioning to cello.
Jensen – Music and International Learning
Jensen, now 13 years old, began Shichida as a baby.
His perfect pitch ability discovered during Shichida continues to support his musical development in piano and violin.
He is currently participating in a six-week international school program in Thailand, gaining valuable global learning experiences.
Elise – Strong Foundations
Elise, now 11 years old and in Year 6, also attended Shichida during her early childhood years.
Although she did not complete the full program due to family commitments, her early Shichida experience helped build strong learning habits and confidence.
Like her brothers, she continues to enjoy music and learning.
A Well-Rounded Education
All three children developed strong musical abilities and continue to play instruments at an advanced level.
They have also participated in sports including tennis and swimming, developing confidence and perseverance alongside their academic and creative skills.
A Loyal Shichida Family
The Wong family remains strong supporters of the Shichida Method and regularly recommend the program to other parents.
“I’m always a loyal advocate for Shichida. All three of my children started from toddler age and we continue to see the benefits today.”
“I have referred many parents to the program and they all love it.”
Their experience demonstrates how early whole-brain education can support children’s development over many years.
Originally Featured in Mamamia
The Wong family’s Shichida journey was originally featured in Mamamia, one of Australia’s leading parenting publications.
The article shares their experience when their children were young and explains why they chose Shichida.
Read the original article:
https://www.mamamia.com.au/early-education-alternatives/
The Wong family’s journey shows that when strong foundations are laid early, the impact can extend far beyond childhood!
