Tadika Seri Soka, Cheras
by on 18/08/2025 85
Also available in : Bahasa Malaysia 中文版
Highlights
- Guided by the humanistic principles of Soka Education, cultivating joyful learners who embody compassion, wisdom, and core values
- Large purpose-built environment, complete with library, hall, and play areas
- Thematic, hands-on learning approach balances academics, play, and character-building
- Dedicated, long-serving teachers who guide with care, inclusivity, and strong parent partnership
- Graduates leave with good credentials, making a strong impression in primary school
Located on a serene, gated 2-acre plot adjacent to the premises of Soka Gakkai Malaysia, Tadika Seri Soka was established in 1995 and has since blossomed into a cherished early childhood institution, celebrated for its unwavering commitment to nurturing humanistic values. Within its nurturing environment, children are guided to become capable learners; compassionate, resilient, and empowered to create value in their everyday lives.
Rooted in Humanistic Education
Tadika Seri Soka (TSS) is deeply rooted in the humanistic philosophy of Soka Education, where every child is treasured as a unique individual with limitless potential. The word “Soka” itself means “value creation,” reflecting the school’s mission to cultivate learners who grow not only in knowledge, but in character. TSS actively promotes harmonious multiracial interaction, fostering unity, mutual respect, and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
“Our foundation is humanistic education,” explains Madam Ho Lee Choo, the principal of Tadika Seri Soka. “We prepare them to be happy, kind, and resilient individuals. A happy child is a happy learner, and from there everything else blossoms.”
The school motto, Strong, Righteous, Lively, is more than words on a wall. It shapes the way teachers design activities and the way children learn to interact with the world around them.
Purpose-Built Environment that Enriches Children
Tadika Seri Soka comprises of a huge land area with approximately the size of 12 terrace. This makes the environment feels more like a small primary school, easing children’s transition to formal education later on. Classrooms are bright, thematic, and filled with opportunities for hands-on discovery, while the grounds feature indoor sand play, outdoor water play, an assembly hall, and even a library of over 10,000 books—many donated by alumni.
This layout is intentional. As Madam Ho explains, “When our children graduate, they step into primary school with confidence. They’re already used to larger compounds, routines like assemblies, and a structured environment. Teachers in primary schools often tell us how impressed they are with our students’ independence, attitude, and perseverance.”
Thematic, Hands-On, and Humanistic Learning
Every semester at Tadika Seri Soka is built around a theme that ties into music, art, dance, cooking, and environmental projects. This approach ensures that children experience holistic, meaningful learning rather than rote memorisation.
At Tadika Seri Soka, learning goes beyond textbooks. For example, six-year-olds may spend a term exploring themes like recycling and environmental care alongside their core subjects. They sing songs about nature, engage in hands-on projects, and discover their role in protecting the earth. Similarly, cooking classes are more than just lessons in food preparation—they become opportunities to cultivate responsibility, mindfulness, and care for others. Through these experiences, children learn to create value in everyday life, embodying the principles of humanistic education.
“Education here is never about worksheets alone,” says Madam Ho. “Children need to enjoy their childhood. Play, discovery, and character-building are just as important as writing and counting.”
Building Character Through Daily Practice
At Tadika Seri Soka, character education is embedded into every routine. Students learn to respect their parents, care for others like family, and never give up in the face of challenges. Teachers explain the “why” behind actions, helping children understand values rather than merely following instructions.
Each morning, the children gather in the hall for physical play, followed by an engaging assembly session. On Mondays, they begin the week with patriotic spirit by singing “Negaraku,” the Selangor state anthem, and the Tadika Seri Soka kindergarten song. Tuesdays are dedicated to learning new song movements that promote coordination and joy. From Wednesday to Friday, the assembly features sharing sessions on enriching topics such as world news, Malaysian history, safety awareness, and more—nurturing curiosity, cultural appreciation, and lifelong learning.
Graduation ceremonies, too, are deeply meaningful. Drawing inspiration from the children’s stories written by Founder Mr. Daisaku Ikeda, the children select their own roles and co-create the performance alongside their teachers. From choreography to character, every detail reflects their choices. What unfolds on stage is more than a performance—it is a tribute to their hard work, creativity, and the courage to express who they are becoming: peace messengers.
Teachers Who Teach with Heart
One of Tadika Seri Soka’s greatest strengths is its dedicated team of teachers, many of whom have been with the school for over 10 years.
“Our teachers don’t see this as just a job,” Madam Ho shares warmly. “They love the children. If there’s an issue, we don’t scold or punish. We sit down with the child, talk it through, and involve parents in the process. It’s about guiding with care.”
Strong Impression in Primary School
Perhaps the best testimony to Tadika Seri Soka’s impact is the feedback from primary schools. Teachers consistently notice the difference in Seri Soka graduates: they are independent, confident, polite, and persistent learners. Even the shyest child learns to ask questions when necessary, demonstrating courage and self-assurance.
As Madam Ho puts it, “What makes our students stand out is not just their knowledge, but their character. They’re respectful, resilient, and eager to learn. That’s the true success of humanistic education.”
Supporting Families in a Changing World
In response to modern family needs, Tadika Seri Soka has expanded to include full-day programmes and will soon introduce holiday enrichment activities. These programmes go beyond childcare—they instill independence as children learn to manage their own belongings, rest routines, and mealtimes in a structured, caring environment. Parents often notice remarkable improvements at home, from better eating habits to stronger discipline in daily life.
The school also engages parents through twice-yearly parent-teacher meetings and educational talks, recognising that learning is a partnership between school and family.
A Legacy of Peace, Culture, and Education
Through every lesson, activity, and shared moment, Tadika Seri Soka strives to nurture children who are strong, righteous, and lively—guided by the values of hope, courage, and friendship. By instilling the spirit of unity and care for others, we empower each child to grow into a compassionate global citizen, ready to embrace the world with wisdom, warmth, and an unwavering heart for peace.
Conclusion
For parents in Cheras and beyond, Tadika Seri Soka offers more than a preschool education. It cultivates a philosophy of growth, a caring community, and a commitment to shaping children who are ready not only for their next academic step, but for the journey ahead.
Or, as Madam Ho beautifully sums it up:
“Education is not just about preparing children for exams. It’s about preparing them for life, for society, and for happiness. That’s what we strive to do every single day at Tadika Seri Soka.”
