Let the Homework Belong to Them: Smart Tips for Parents

Helping your child with homework doesn’t mean doing it for them. In fact, the best support often looks like stepping back, not stepping in. Here’s how to make sure the homework belongs to your child, where it should!

Set the Stage, Not the Answers

Create a calm, well-lit space with everything they need, pencils, paper, laptop, and a glass of water. Your job is to set up the environment. Let theirs be to fill the space with focus and effort.

Think coach, not co-pilot.

Ask Questions, Don’t Give Solutions

Instead of “Here’s how you do it,” try:

• “What’s the question asking?”

• “Where could you find the answer?”

• “What do you think comes next?”

This builds thinking muscle, not dependency.

Routine is Everything

Same time, same place every day, even 20–30 minutes makes a difference. Kids thrive on rhythm, and routines say: Homework is your responsibility and you’ve got this. Keep the routines going and let them choose where to do the homework where they feel comfortable.

Praise the Process

Say:

• “I like how you stuck with that tricky bit.”

• “You checked your work, smart move.”

• Avoid praising only right answers. Resilience matters more than perfection. It’s all about the effort and the process.

Know When to Walk Away

If your child is just waiting for you to swoop in, try a simple “I’ll check back in 10 minutes, see how far you get.” Give them space to try (and even to fail a little, failure is a great teacher).

Use a Check-in Chart

Let them tick off tasks they complete independently. Ownership grows when they see their effort. You are merely the supportive coach along the way.

Talk to the Teacher, Not for the Child

If there’s a real struggle, communicate with the teacher but don’t become the nightly interpreter. Kids need to learn to say, “I didn’t understand this,” and ask for help. That’s a life skill.

Your goal is not perfect homework. It’s a confident child who believes, “I can do this myself.” When parents shift from fixer to supporter, magic happens. Also remember the teacher sets the homework and if there are problems they need to be referred back to the teacher the very next day. Homework should not be a family burden but rather one of the many routines across the week.

How to Help Your Child Keep Friends: Simple Tips for Parents

Friendships are one of the most important parts of childhood. They help kids feel happy, confident, and supported. But keeping friends isn’t always easy! As a parent, you can help your child build strong, lasting friendships with some simple but powerful steps.

1. Teach the Power of Listening

Encourage your child to really listen when friends talk. It shows they care and helps them understand what their friends are feeling. Practise listening at home, maybe during dinner, ask your child to tell you about their day, then listen without interrupting. The hard part is not to interrupt

2. Model Kindness and Respect

Kids learn a lot from watching you. Show kindness, say “please” and “thank you,” and handle conflicts calmly. When your child sees this, they’re more likely to treat their friends the same way. Children gravitate around calmer, less complicated children.

3. Encourage Sharing and Taking Turns

Playing fair and sharing toys or time helps friendships grow. Role-play sharing scenarios with your child, so they feel confident in real situations.

4. Help Your Child Express Their Feelings

Friends need to know how your child feels. Teach simple words for emotions like “happy,” “sad,” or “frustrated.” This helps kids communicate better and avoid misunderstandings.

5. Support Problem-Solving Skills

When friends disagree, it’s a chance to practice solving problems. Guide your child to find solutions like apologizing, compromising, or asking an adult for help if needed.

6. Create Opportunities to Socialize

Arrange playdates, encourage team sports, or join clubs. The more chances your child has to interact with peers, the easier it is to make and keep friends.

7. Respect Their Friendships

Sometimes kids choose friends who are different from what you expect. Listen and be open-minded, showing respect for their choices builds trust. It is their job to decipher the genuine friends from the not so genuine friends.

Final thought:

Friendships take effort, but with your support, your child can learn how to keep friends and enjoy happy, confident social connections that last. The more they mature, the better they become at choosing friendships wisely.

“A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself”

— Jim Morrison

Raising a Confident Child in Today’s Classroom: 5 Surprising Ways Parents Can Help

Let’s face it: school can be a confidence minefield. Whether it’s answering a question in front of the class, navigating friendship drama, or simply speaking up when they need help, many children hold back, often because they don’t believe in themselves and they are just not socially sure of themselves.

As a parent, you’re in the perfect position to quietly build that belief. Confidence needs to be lived, practised, and grown like a muscle.

Here are 5 innovative, real-world ideas to help your child grow in confidence at school and beyond.

1. Let Your Child Be the Expert (at Home and in Public)

Why it works: When children teach something, they feel powerful and valued. Explaining ideas helps them process and internalize knowledge, and boosts their confidence to speak out in class.

Try this:

• Ask your child to explain a concept they’re learning like fractions, life cycles, or even a new word and record a mini “teaching video” for a grandparent or cousin.

• Out in the world? Ask them to order the food, check the train times, or explain a museum exhibit to you like they’re your tour guide.

The more they hear their own voice doing real life activities in a responsible way the more they grow sure of themselves.

2. Schedule One “Mini Risk” a Week

Why it works: Confidence comes from doing, especially things that feel a bit uncomfortable. Regular small challenges build resilience and trust in their own ability.

Try this:

Make a “Mini Risk Jar” with your child. Fill it with fun, doable dares:

• Ask a new friend to play

• Try a new club

• Put your hand up once a day

• Present a joke at dinner

• Talk about any risks you have taken recently.

Celebrate attempts, not outcomes. Praise the trying, not the success. Comment on the effort made and how this is successful.

3. Ditch “Be Confident”. Say This Instead

Why it works: “Be confident” is vague. Kids need tools. Swapping language helps them link confidence to specific actions.

Try this:

Replace “Be confident” with:

• “Speak like you’re helping someone understand”

• “Stand like a superhero, feet planted, eyes up”

• “Remember, your voice is a gift”

Real story: A dad told his son, “Stand like Spider-Man before he saves the day.” The next morning, the boy stood taller during show-and-tell and actually smiled.

4. Let Them Hear You Fail (and Bounce Back)

Why it works: Children often believe adults are always right, always perfect. When you model what it looks like to get something wrong and keep going, you give them permission to do the same. Be authentic and let them see the real you with warts and all.

Try this:

• Talk aloud about your mistakes: “I totally messed up that email but here’s how I fixed it.”

• Share how you felt, what you did next, and how you kept perspective.

“I told my son about how I froze during a meeting. He said, ‘That’s like when I forgot my line in the play!’ Suddenly, we were teammates.”

5. Confidence Grows in the Quiet, Too

Why it works: Not all confidence is loud. Some children shine by preparing quietly and leading gently. That’s not shyness, it’s strength.

Try this:

• Create “backstage” confidence moments: help them prep for a class talk with cue cards or rehearse a social scenario with stuffed animals.

• Praise thoughtful acts: “You noticed Ella was left out. That’s real leadership.”

• Remind them: confidence isn’t always about being first, it’s about being ready.

• Affirm those quiet moments when you notice behaviour that is helpful to others.

A Final Word

Confidence is not a personality trait—it’s a learnt skill. And like any skill, it grows best with practice, praise, and patience. Every child will be different in how they show confidence and for some it is a slow, steady progress. We need to be patient.

You don’t need to push your child to be the loudest, the fastest, or the most outgoing. You just need to show them they’re seen, heard, and capable, especially when they doubt it. Let them develop their voice in their own time.

Start small. Celebrate progress. And trust that each brave step they take, no matter how tiny, is shaping a stronger future.

"I Just Don’t Know How to Help!" – A Parent’s Guide to Coping When School Gets Tough

Being a parent isn’t easy at the best of times, but when your child is upset about school or you’re worried they’re falling behind, it can feel overwhelming. You might wonder: Should I speak to the teacher? Should I push harder or back off? What if I make it worse?

You're not alone. Many parents feel this way. Let’s talk about what to do when school feels difficult for your child and for you.

Start with Listening

When a child says, “I hate school,” or “I’m bad at reading,” our instinct is often to jump in with reassurance or solutions. But first, just listen. Give them your full attention even just 5 minutes of focused listening can unlock what’s really going on.

Try saying:

• “I am wondering how school went today.”

• “That sounds tough. I’d feel upset too.”

Remember this is not about giving them the answers. At this stage it is simply listening and feeling their concern.

Break the Problem Into Small Pieces

Big school problems often have small, manageable parts. Once your child feels heard, you can gently help them name the problem.

Example issues:

• “I don’t get maths” might actually mean “I got stuck on subtraction.”

• “No one likes me” might mean “Two friends wouldn’t play with me today.”

Help your child zoom in. Small problems are easier to talk about and easier to solve. For the child at the time, they seem insurmountable.

Make a Simple Action Plan (Together)

Children feel more confident when they’re part of the solution. They need to feel ownership of the issue. Once you've listened and broken the problem down, brainstorm one small step together.

Examples of action steps:

• Practising reading at home to build confidence

• Writing a short note to the teacher about a worry

• Role-playing what to say to a friend at playtime

For you: Don’t hesitate to send a quick message to the teacher. A simple, kind email like “My child is a bit anxious about PE. Any suggestions?” can open a helpful door.

Let Go of "Perfect"

You don’t have to be a teacher or a therapist. You don’t need perfect answers. Children don’t need perfect parents. They need present ones. Just showing up, listening, and caring makes a huge difference.

If you're trying, you're already helping. Being authentic shows the child you are really wanting to help.

Some Reassurance

Most school struggles are temporary. Children are resilient and bounce back, especially when they have a parent who’s in their corner. This is not about solving the problem for them but being there, listening and together working on solutions. If you, the parent, take full ownership of their problem, they will disengage from it and they will have learnt nothing.

Example:

Tom, age 9, was refusing to go to school. After some gentle chats, his dad realized Tom was scared about changing seats. A quick word with the teacher helped, and they worked out a solution. Within a week, Tom was back at school and smiling.

One Last Thought

When school is tough, it can feel like you're both in the storm. But storms pass. What matters most is that your child knows you're by their side..With slow and steady support, recognizing that it is a problem for them is critical to their sense of security. Working through the problem together and checking in to see how they are going is the best way to show you care.

What AI Means for Your Child’s Education And How to Help Them Thrive

Why it works:

• It’s a hot topic. Parents are hearing about AI everywhere but may not understand how it relates to school.

• It positions you as forward-thinking, offering clarity in an area full of uncertainty.

• It opens up a new parenting role: helping kids navigate the future, not just the present.

• It shows that you are listening to what's new and about.

What you could include:

• What’s already happening in schools: AI in homework tools, learning platforms, and even marking systems. Find out if the school has sent home any information.

• What kids are curious about or using: Chat GPT, Tik Tok etc.

• How to support healthy use: guiding curiosity, spotting misinformation, encouraging creativity, not cheating. Talk frequently about the use and abuse of such a tool as AI.

• Future skills to nurture: critical thinking, empathy, digital discernment. Talk about how different industries could use AI.

• Look up the web to see what the Education Department is writing about AI and what advice they have for parents.

Your child needs to see that you are not intimidated by change and that you carefully assess what is new and different. The more discussion with your child the better. Allow them to tell you what they know about AI.

“To be an effective learner we should be open to new and challenging concepts.”

— Gail J Smith

Understanding Your Child’s Weekly Challenges at School And How You Can Help

School is a full-time job for children, filled with learning, social interactions, and daily challenges. As a parent, understanding what your child faces each week can help you provide meaningful support at home. Here’s a guide to some common challenges children encounter and practical ways you can help them navigate these experiences.

Academic Learning Challenges

Children are constantly absorbing new information, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. Some children take a longer time to process information, which can cause them stress.

How You Can Help:

• Ask specific questions: Instead of asking “How was school?” try “What was the most interesting thing you learned today?”

• Create a homework-friendly environment: A quiet, well-lit space helps children concentrate.

• Encourage a growth mindset: Praise effort, not just results. Saying, “I love how you kept trying!” builds resilience. It is the process of learning that is important.

• Use real-life learning opportunities: If they’re learning fractions, bake together. If it’s history, visit a museum or watch a documentary. Make learning fun.

Friendships and Social Dynamics

Navigating friendships, dealing with peer pressure, and handling conflicts are significant aspects of school life.

How You Can Help:

• Encourage open conversations: Ask about their friends, group activities, and how they felt during social interactions. Never criticize their choice of friends.

• Model positive social interactions: Show them how to manage conflicts calmly and respectfully in everyday life. Talk about your situations where being calm and steady were necessary.

• Teach empathy: Ask, “How do you think your friend felt?” to encourage perspective-taking.

Managing Expectations and Pressure

Children often feel pressure to perform academically, socially, or in extracurricular activities.

How You Can Help:

• Normalize mistakes: Share your own experiences of learning from failures.

• Help them prioritize: Teach time management with a simple planner or checklist.

• Balance activities: Ensure they have downtime to relax and just be kids.

• Celebrate small successes: Acknowledge their hard work, even if results aren’t perfect.

Handling Tiredness and Stress

A full school week can leave children mentally and physically drained. This can cause unwanted anxiety.

How You Can Help:

• Ensure enough sleep: Set a regular bedtime and limit screen time before bed. Keep their room suitably dark to help them sleep well.

• Promote relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, stretching, or listening to calming music can help. Sometimes having an ongoing art activity or jigsaw puzzle set up can be beneficial.

• Encourage outdoor play: Fresh air and movement help relieve stress. This can be through regular park visits or simply a kick of a ball in the backyard. Make exercise a regular part of their weekly routines.

• Check for over-scheduling: If they’re exhausted, it may be time to scale back commitments. This could include a complete break for a few days.

• Positive outlook: Try to keep a positive outlook in the home throughout the week. This reduces stress.

Building Confidence and Independence

As children grow, they need to develop self-confidence and independence in learning and decision-making. This is where you let them grow emotionally and socially.

How You Can Help:

• Let them solve problems: Instead of jumping in, guide them to find solutions.

• Give responsibilities at home: Small tasks like packing their school bag help build independence.

• Encourage self-advocacy: If they have an issue at school, discuss how they might talk to their teacher about it.

• Foster resilience: Teach them that setbacks are part of learning and encourage perseverance.

Final Thoughts

Just as we experience ups and downs across the week, just as we also feel tired, irritated and unhappy from time to time, so will our child. Your capacity to listen well to their concerns and to offer good counsel with not too much intervention is a helpful way to support their busy week. They need to live in a child's world which will mimic the ups and downs of adult life in some ways. Your hand will be there to guide them gently into making good choices that strengthen their foundation years.

How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health Through School Without Over Complicating It

School is a huge part of your child’s life. It can be stressful. From friendship fallouts to academic pressure, it’s no wonder mental health is one of the top concerns for families today. But supporting your child’s well-being doesn’t have to mean long lectures or expensive therapies. Sometimes, it’s the simple, everyday things that make the biggest difference.

Consider:

Teach Them to Name Their Feelings and You Name Yours Too

Kids can't manage what they can't name.

Instead of just asking “How was school?”, try asking:

• “What was something that made you happy/sad/frustrated today?”

• “Was there a moment today you felt proud of yourself?”

Better yet, model it yourself: “I felt nervous today because of a big meeting, but I took some deep breaths and got through it.”

Why this works: Kids learn to recognize and handle emotions when they hear you doing it.

Make Space for ‘Down Time’ After School

Imagine finishing a long workday and going straight into more tasks — exhausting, right? Kids need that same recovery time.

Instead of asking them to immediately do homework or talk about the day, try:

• 20 minutes of quiet play

• A snack and a cuddle on the sofa

• Listening to music together

Why this works: It helps them regulate and reset, which makes later conversations or homework battles much easier. We all need space across the day.

Focus on Effort, Not Just Results

When your child shares a test score or project result, it’s tempting to focus on what they got. But instead, try praising the effort behind it:

• “I’m so proud of how hard you worked on that.”

• “I love how you kept going, even when it was tough.”

Why this works: Kids learn that trying is what counts, which builds resilience when things don’t go perfectly. It's OK to get some things wrong.

Keep an Eye on Friendships and Step In If Needed

Friendships are huge for kids' mental health.

Ask casually:

• “Who did you hang out with today?”

• “What was the best part of playtime?”

If you notice they’re upset about friends often, don’t dismiss it. Offer to role-play tricky situations or brainstorm what to say if things get tough. Remember you are not there to take over the problem.

Why this works: Feeling socially safe helps kids relax, focus, and enjoy school more.

Let Teachers Know if Something’s Up

If your child is struggling with sleep issues, anxiety, friendship worries, tell the teacher. You don’t need to give every detail, but a heads-up helps them watch out and support your child in small, thoughtful ways. They spend many hours with them in the best part of the day.

Example email you could send:

"Hi Miss Smith, just wanted to let you know that Jack has been feeling a bit anxious lately, especially in class. If you notice anything or have suggestions, we’d love to hear from you."

Why this works: Teachers can’t help with what they don’t know, and they want to help.

“Supporting your child’s mental health isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present”

— Gail J Smith

How to Help Your Child Thrive at School Without the Stress!

School life can be a roller coaster—exciting one day, exhausting the next! As a parent, you’re the safety harness that keeps your child steady through the ups and downs. But how can you best support them without adding to the pressure? Here’s your quick-start guide:

Be Their Cheerleader, Not Their Coach

Your child needs to know you’re on their team. Celebrate effort over results, and remind them that mistakes are part of learning. A simple “I love how hard you tried!” can work wonders.

Create a ‘Safe Space’ at Home

Home should be a refuge, not an extension of the classroom. Keep homework sessions stress-free, encourage breaks, and make time for laughter. A relaxed child learns better!

Listen More Than You Talk

Ask open-ended questions: “What was the best part of your day?” or “What made you think today?” Let them open up on their terms. Sometimes, they just need to vent! Sometimes they just want to also be silent

Teach Resilience, Not Perfection

Life at school won’t always be smooth sailing. Help them handle setbacks with confidence. Instead of fixing problems for them, guide them to find their own solutions. Develop independent thinking in your child.

Prioritise Sleep, Food & Fun

Tired, hungry kids struggle. A good routine, healthy meals, and plenty of play keep their energy and mood in check. A happy child learns better than a stressed one.

Stay Connected (Without Hovering!)

Be involved—know their friends, show up at school events, chat with teachers. But avoid micromanaging! Your child needs space to grow independently.

Lead by Example

If you stay positive about school, they’ll pick up on that. Show enthusiasm for learning, handle challenges calmly, and they’ll mirror your mindset.

Your support doesn’t have to be complicated. Just being present, listening, and creating a positive home environment can make all the difference. So, go on, cheer them on, lift them up, and enjoy the journey together!

“Learning for your child will happen anywhere and at anytime if they are happy and secure.”

— Gail Smith

It’s all in the effort with Parenting

Parenting is a journey, not a performance—there’s no perfect script, and mistakes are part of the process. Your child doesn’t need a flawless parent; they need a real one. The love, effort, and care you put in every day matter more than getting everything right. By showing your child how to navigate challenges, apologize when needed, and keep trying, you’re teaching them resilience and authenticity. So take a deep breath—your best is often more than enough.

“There is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one.”

— Sue Atkins

Five simple but practical ideas for parents to find a balance between a busy life and dealing with school matters.

Consider these five simple but practical ideas for parents to balance their busy lives while staying engaged with your child’s school matters:

The 10-Minute School Check-in

Set aside just 10 minutes a day to ask about school—over breakfast, on the drive home, or at bedtime. Keep it simple: "What was the best part of your day?" or "Did anything tricky happen today?" Small conversations build strong connections without overwhelming your schedule.

Use Technology to Stay Updated

Sign up for school emails, apps, or newsletters to get quick updates without needing extra time. Skim through messages during coffee breaks or while waiting in line. If possible, set up alerts for key school dates so you don’t miss important events.

Prioritize What Really Matters

You don’t have to attend every event! Choose one or two school activities per term that fit your schedule, like a parents’ evening or a fun day. This keeps you involved without adding stress.

Turn Everyday Moments into Learning

Use daily tasks to support your child’s education. Cooking? Talk about measurements. Shopping? Discuss money and budgeting. This helps reinforce school skills without extra work.

Team Up with Other Parents

Share school runs, swap event updates, or take turns attending meetings and passing on key points. A parent support network lightens the load and keeps everyone informed.

School is ever present in your life as well as your own work demands. There is never a perfect balance, but finding opportunities to throw in a few educational moments and to simply enjoy your child, is so important across that busy week.

“There is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one.”

— Sue Atkins

Five sound reasons why parents should stay in touch with their child’s school throughout the year.

The more you keep in touch with school, the greater chance of a successful school year.

Consider:

Better Academic Support

• Regular communication with teachers helps parents understand their child's progress and areas needing improvement.

• Example: A parent who checks in with the teacher about their child’s struggles in math can get advice on home support strategies or learn about extra resources.

Stronger Home-School Partnership

• When parents and teachers work together, children feel supported both at home and in school.

• Example: A child struggling with reading gains confidence when their parents use the same phonics techniques as the teacher at home.

Awareness of Behaviour & Social Development

• Teachers see how children interact with peers and can provide insights on friendships, behaviour, or emotional challenges.

• Example: A parent might learn that their usually quiet child is struggling with playground conflicts and can then discuss ways to help them navigate friendships.

Keeping Up with School Events & Changes

• Schools often introduce new policies, curriculum changes, or events that parents should be aware of.

• Example: A parent who stays in touch won’t miss out on an opportunity for their child to join a free after-school science club or something similar. Sometimes new activities can happen spontaneously.

Early Intervention for Issues

• Small problems can grow if left unaddressed, but regular check-ins allow for early solutions.

• Example: A teacher notices a child's handwriting is falling behind and, by informing the parents early, they can work together on fine motor skills before it becomes a bigger issue.

Keep in mind that more contact and building relationships with the school and especially the teachers, provides a great framework for a successful year. You will also enjoy the journey.

“School can be a great place to grow for the whole family and just the children.”

— Gail J Smith

5 TIPS TO REDUCE ANXIETY IN YOUR CHILD WHEN STARTING SCHOOL

Starting a new school year can be a big transition for many children, especially if they're nervous. Here are some tips for parents to help their child feel more confident and less anxious:

1. Familiarise Them with the School

• Why it works: New places can feel scary. Making the school feel familiar reduces the unknowns.

• Example: Walk around the school grounds together. Show them where the classrooms and toilets are. If the teacher is available, introduce them to your child.

• Story: “Last year, Mia visited her new school with her dad a week before it started. On the first day, she already knew how to find her classroom, so she felt less nervous walking in.”

2. Practise the School Routine

• Why it works: A predictable routine helps children feel prepared and in control.

• Example: One week before school starts, wake up at the time they’ll need to for school, eat breakfast, and pack a pretend lunch together. Practice leaving the house on time.

• Story: “Jason and his mum did a ‘practice day’ where they packed his backpack and walked to the bus stop. On the first day, Jason felt ready because he’d already done it once.”

3. Role-Play Scenarios

• Why it works: Practising interactions can build confidence.

• Example: Pretend to be a new classmate, and practise introducing themselves: “Hi, I’m Alex. What’s your name?” Also, practise asking the teacher questions like, “Can you help me with this?”

• Story: “Sophia was nervous about making friends, so her dad played the role of a shy classmate. After practising, Sophia felt ready to say hello to new kids at recess.”

4. Plan a Special "Back-to-School Tradition"

• Why it works: Creating a positive tradition makes the start of school exciting.

• Example: Let them pick out their first-day outfit, decorate their notebook with stickers, or have a “back-to-school breakfast” with their favourite food.

• Story: “Every year, Ella’s family bakes pancakes in the shape of letters spelling her name. It makes the first day of school something she looks forward to instead of dreading.”

5. Normalize Their Feelings

• Why it works: Knowing it’s okay to feel nervous helps kids manage their emotions.

• Example: Share a story about a time you felt nervous but things turned out okay, like starting a new job. Then talk about how they can overcome similar fears.

• Story: “When Liam told his mum he was scared about meeting new classmates, she said, ‘I felt the same way on my first day at work, but I ended up making friends. Let’s think of ways you can make friends, too.’

These examples make the advice practical and relatable for parents. Think about your child and what best works for them. Keeping anxieties to a minimum gives your child the best start for the year.

“Loving school is all about feeling safe and comfortable”

— Gail J Smith

Starting School in 2025

Starting school can be an exciting but anxious time for some children as they face new routines, environments, and people. To help ease their worries, talk positively about school, focusing on the fun activities and friendships they'll enjoy. Practice routines like getting ready in the morning, and visit the school beforehand if possible to familiarize them with the surroundings. Listen to their concerns and reassure them that it's okay to feel nervous. Most importantly, offer lots of encouragement and remind them that you're there to support them every step of the way.

Consider:

• .Be patient with your child.

• Listen well to what they say in the first few weeks.

• Be available especially after school for some time.

  Change will occur with reshuffled friendship groups and familiarising themselves with the teacher. However, change is a good thing!

“The secret of change is to focus all our energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”

— Socrates

Five simple but powerful tips for parents to help their child start school on a positive note

1. Talk with Excitement – Speak positively about school, teachers, and learning. Your

enthusiasm will be contagious!

2. Keep Mornings Calm – A smooth, stress-free morning routine sets the tone for the

day. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute chaos.

3. Celebrate Small Wins – Praise your child’s efforts, whether it’s making a new

friend or packing their own bag. Confidence grows with encouragement.

4. Listen and Reassure – If your child has worries, acknowledge them, but focus on

solutions and strengths. “You can handle this, and I’m here for you!”

5. Stay Connected – Chat about their day with curiosity, not just “How was school?”

Try, “What made you smile today?”

It is best to start some conversation about school now. Keep on the positive and invite them to talk about what they know about their new school year. Invite them to talk about the things that they have missed in the holidays and what they look forward to when school starts.

“With the new school year comes opportunities and adventures”

— Gail J Smith

5 Simple Tips to Help Your Child Finish the School Year Strong

Finishing the school year can come with all sorts of mixed emotions for your child. Farewelling loved teachers, separating from classmates and the fear of the unknown new school year. The best way to help ease end of year anxieties is to put good closure on the current school year. Below are some simple suggestions that may guide you in this area. It's all about helping your child through the transition of school, holidays and school again.

Consider:

1. Set End-of-Year Goals

Encourage your child to set small, specific goals for their final weeks, like I improving in a subject, finishing a project, or mastering a skill. Celebrate every achievement—it builds confidence and momentum.

2. Organize and Review

Help your child clean out their backpack, locker, or study space. Reviewing old notes and assignments reinforces their learning. It is also a chance to revisit special moments.

3. Show Gratitude to Teachers

Writing a thank-you note or small gesture of appreciation teaches your child kindness and helps build lasting connections with their teachers. Discuss who else in the life of the child should be thanked for their successful school year?

4. Reflect on Successes

Take time to discuss your child’s favourite moments from the year. What were they proud of?What did they enjoy most? This positive reflection encourages growth and gratitude

5. Plan for the Next Step

Talk about what’s coming: next summer plans, the next class, or a new school. This helps your child transition with excitement and purpose.

End the school year on a high note by encouraging your child to finish with focus, appreciation, and enthusiasm! Once school is finished, time to make that clear separation from school and holidays. Everybody needs it.

“Closing the school year well prepares your child for a fresh start in the new year.”

— Gail J Smith

Finishing the school year well

As we approach the end of the school year there are excited thoughts of closure and new beginnings coming into a child’s mind. It is a great time as parents to reflect on how closure should look like for the school year and how planning for holidays and beyond should commence.

Consider the following:

Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small

Acknowledge your child's efforts and progress, not just academic results. In a world where comparison is rampant, affirming their unique journey builds confidence and resilience. It is all about the process.

Reflect on Social and Emotional Growth

Ask yourself: How has my child grown in managing friendships, emotions, or challenges this year? These skills are as important as academics in preparing them for the future.

Address Gaps or Concerns Early

If your child struggled academically, socially, or emotionally, now is the time to create a plan for improvement over the summer. Talk to teachers or explore summer programs to help bridge gaps. Do it gently with still plenty of recreation built in.

Plan Purposeful Summer Activities

Balance relaxation with opportunities for learning and growth. Enrol them in camps, encourage hobbies, or plan family activities that nurture curiosity, creativity, and physical health.

Stay Connected with the School Community

End the year by expressing gratitude to teachers and staff. Building positive relationships now sets the tone for smoother communication and collaboration in the next school year.

Each school year will come with highs and lows. Friendships may change and feelings of anxiety may creep in at the thought of changing classes and teachers. Holidays should be a time to refresh, break routine and enjoy personal space. It is a wonderful time for family to renew relationships and simply enjoy each other where routine and responsibilities are no more for a short time.

“Closing the school year happily and with reflection invites a fresh start in the new year.”

— Gail J Smith

Being interested in your child’s school has many benefits

As a parent you are better connected to your child if you value and connect to their school. Remember your child spends five hours a day across forty weeks of the year living in a different world from you where there are many influences and challenges. Your child’s school invites you to be an active member of the work they do with your child. They understand the real difference it makes to your child when you are part of your child’s learning world.

 Consider the following benefits:

Academic Progress

Regular communication helps parents stay informed about their child's achievements, challenges, and growth. This way, they can address any learning difficulties early and support their child in meeting academic goals. The more you know the better equipped you are to help.

Emotional Well-being

Children may face social or emotional challenges at school, like bullying or anxiety. By staying in touch with teachers, parents can better understand their child’s social experiences and work together to resolve any issues.

A Strong Parent-Teacher Partnership

Maintaining an open dialogue builds trust between parents and teachers. This partnership ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes to supporting the child’s education and development, creating a united front.

Being Informed About School Events and Changes

Schools regularly have events, programs, or changes to policies. Being in regular contact means parents won’t miss important updates, allowing them to be involved in their child's school life and prepared for any changes.

Encourage Positive Behaviour

When children see that their parents and teachers are connected and communicate often, they are more likely to take school seriously, respect rules, and stay motivated to do their best.

 There is so much to enjoy for all the family in the life of a school. You will be enriched by that environment in which you have entrusted your child.

“Make your child’s school a destination for yourself.”

— Gail J Smith

The importance of your child attending school regularly

Once a child gets out of the pattern of attending school regularly various issues can develop which further exacerbates their interest in attending. We need our children to be keen and interested in school. When they feel that it is important for them to attend you can feel reassured that they are engaged with the school environment.

Here are five reasons why regular attendance is so necessary for a well adjusted child at school:

Academic Achievement:

• Consistent attendance ensures students don't miss important lessons and activities, leading to better understanding of the material and higher academic performance. The child who misses important lessons soon feels they are not a success. They feel that others are smarter than them. This can lead to disengagement from their work.

Skill Development:

• Regular attendance helps students develop essential skills such as time management, responsibility, and discipline, which are crucial for future success. A child needs and responds to the setting of boundaries and being in routines.

Social Interaction:

• Attending school regularly allows children to build and maintain friendships, improving their social skills and providing emotional support through peer interactions. Regular friendship contact gives a child reassurance and they feel socially satisfied.

Access to Resources:

• Regular attendance provides students with access to school resources like libraries, labs, and extracurricular activities, enhancing their learning experience and personal growth.

Preparation for the Future:

• Consistent school attendance establishes a routine and work ethic that prepares students for future education and employment, instilling a sense of commitment and reliability. When they lose this momentum they can feel lost and quite disconnected from their peers.

It does require effort on the part of the family but each morning is important in getting everyone up in time to face the day.

“When your child is fully engaged at school, they seldom become anxious about getting ready to leave in the morning.”

— Gail J Smith

How to choose the best school for your child?

At this stage of the year many parents are reflecting on where to send their first child to school. It is also useful for all parents of children in schools to reflect on what your school is currently offering your child. Is it living up to those expectations you have of it? Is your child happy at school?

Here are some reflections on how you can research your local schools. Keep in mind though that your participation and engagement with that school will make all the difference to your child's success in that environment.

Consider:

• Consider the school's proximity to your home or workplace for ease of commute and involvement. Also consider your child will establish friends at that school and this will impact on your social life at home as often children want to play with friends outside of school hours.

• Look at the school’s curriculum and special programs to see if they align with your child’s learning style and interests. Is the school looking into optional programs to support various children's needs?

• Smaller class sizes often mean more individual attention for your child. Check the teacher- student ratio. Consider is the school likely to grow in numbers quickly as that will affect class sizes?

• Research the school’s reputation through reviews from other parents, online ratings, and talking to local community members.

• Ensure the school offers a range of extracurricular activities that match your child’s interests, such as sports, arts, or clubs.

• Visit the school to get a feel for its culture and values. Make sure it aligns with your family’s values and supports a positive environment. Attend functions such as s school fairs to get a feel for the environment.

• Check the quality of the school’s facilities, including classrooms, libraries, sports areas, and technology. Are their any plans for new buildings, renovations etc.?

• Find out what support services are available, such as counselling, special education, and tutoring programs.

• Assess how the school communicates with parents and the opportunities available for parental involvement.

• Review the school’s safety protocols and discipline policies to ensure a secure and well- managed environment.

• Look at the school’s performance data, such as test scores and graduation rates, to gauge academic success. Take care though that this is only one feature of a school. Your child's learning is very holistic and they will need development in their social, emotional and physical development alongside side the intellectual development.

• Take a tour of the school, meet the staff, and observe classes to get a firsthand impression.

A school can be many things to children. Primarily they need to feel welcomed and believe that they can safely learn in that environment. No school environment is perfect. What is important is that your child feels strongly connected to the school and can grow with confidence and the reassurance that everyone is there for them.

“The quality of your child’s education at any school will be enriched by your relationship to that school.”

— Gail J Smith

Information every parent should know about their child's school

Every school is different. The culture is different and how a school thinks and operates varies. As a parent, keeping in touch with your child's school, is the key to getting the best from the experience. Here are some ideas facts that you should consider so that you understand and gain a rich experience from the school as a parent.

• Know the daily schedule, including start and end times, and keep track of important dates like holidays, parent-teacher conferences, and special events.

• Understand what subjects are being taught and any key projects or assignments your child will have throughout the year. Teachers will publish all these details often early in the year.

• Get to know your child’s teachers, their teaching styles, and how to contact them for any concerns or questions. Every teacher will have a different style and knowing them will help you understand what they have to say.

• Familiarize yourself with the school’s policies on attendance, discipline, homework, and dress code. A school will always rely on their major policies especially when things go wrong.

• Learn about the extracurricular options available, such as sports teams, clubs, and arts programs, and encourage your child to participate.

• Be aware of any support services the school offers, like counselling, special education, tutoring, and health services.

• Find out how you can get involved, whether through volunteering, joining the PTA, or attending school board meetings. There are many day events across the year and perhaps tapping into these occasions will give you more awareness of school life.

• Know how the school communicates with parents (emails, newsletters, apps) and stay updated on any announcements or alerts.

• Understand the school’s safety protocols, including procedures for emergencies, lock downs, and how they handle bullying.

• Learn about the school’s culture, values, and any unique programs or initiatives they have to support student development.

• Know the details of your child's transportation options, including bus routes, pick-up/drop- off times, and safety rules.

Schools are complex places but when you feel connected to the school, doors are open a lot easier and your knowledge of school life will ease your anxieties when unhealthy rumours spread. It is simply a matter of being in touch across the year and together with your child, enjoying the experience of learning.

“Your child’s school should be a happy learning space for yourself as well as your child.”

— Gail J Smith