Why Your Child’s Mental Health Matters

As parents, we naturally think about homework, routines and many more. But beneath all of this lies something more important, that is our children’s developing mental health. When children feel safe, supported, and understood, everything else in life becomes easier.

Consider:

A calm mind learns better

When children feel secure, they can focus and enjoy learning. Worry, on the other hand, can cloud their thinking. A little reassurance can make all the difference.

Feelings are part of growing

Big emotions like tears, frustration, and excitement are not problems to be “fixed.” They are chances to teach children how to understand themselves. Saying, “I see you’re upset. Let’s take a moment together,” helps them feel safe.

Friendships blossom with support

Children who know how to share their feelings are more likely to build strong friendships. A child who feels heard at home will find it easier to listen and connect with others outside. They are developing empathy.

Mental health is resilience

Life will always bring challenges. Children who have learned coping skills like talking, breathing, or problem-solving can bounce back more quickly when things go wrong. Give them slow and steady independence.

Small daily habits matter most

Just like brushing teeth protects physical health, small daily moments protect mental health. Reading together, sharing a meal, or even a bedtime chat can make a child feel valued and loved. Keep on with the rituals at home.

Early care lasts a lifetime

The ways children learn to handle stress now will shape their teen years and adulthood. A calm walk, a story before bed, or a hug in tough moments builds lifelong strength. It is OK to live in an imperfect world.

You don’t need all the answers

Often, your presence is more powerful than any solution. A child who knows, “Mum or Dad will sit with me when I’m worried,” already feels less alone.

Try a simple daily check-in, ask, “What was something that made you smile today?” and “Was there anything tricky?”

“Your mind is like a garden. With care it will bloom beautifully.”

— Unknown

Relax, Parents: Childhood Is a Long Journey, Not a Sprint

Parents often feel the weight of “getting it right” every single moment. The truth is, raising children isn’t about perfect reactions in every situation, it’s about creating an environment where children feel trusted, respected, and free to grow into themselves. There is no rush. Growing up takes time.

Children are Smarter Than We Think

Your child notices how you response, whether you micromanage or step back with calm confidence. When you treat them as intelligent individuals, they rise to it. For example, a 6-year-old asked to help set the table may not place the cutlery perfectly, but the pride in their independence is far more valuable than straight forks.

Independence is Built in the Small Moments

Children naturally want to do things “by myself.” That’s not defiance, it’s growth. Let them tie their shoes (even if it takes forever) or choose their outfit (even if it clashes). Every act of independence you allow teaches problem-solving and confidence. They are happier in themselves when seeking independence.

Relaxing Builds Trust

When parents hover, children feel doubt: “Maybe I can’t do this.” But when you relax and show faith in them, they learn resilience. Think of a parent at the playground: one hovers nervously at every step; another watches from a distance, ready if needed. Which child is more likely to climb, fall, try again, and succeed? Have more confidence in your child and yourself.

The Long Haul Matters Most

Childhood isn’t about who reads first, ties shoes fastest, or gets perfect grades early on. It’s about building a foundation of security, curiosity, and persistence. Relaxing now allows your child to explore, stumble, and develop the strength they’ll need later in life.

So the next time you feel like correcting, rushing, or fixing, pause. Take a breath. Smile. Remember: parenting is a marathon, not a sprint. And sometimes the best gift you can give your child is the freedom to try, fail, and learn, while you watch with calm confidence.

“When little people are overwhelmed by big emotions’ it’s our job to share our calm, not join their chaos.”

— LR KNOST

Raising Kids Who Care: Teaching Generosity & Compassion at Home

In a world that often feels rushed and self-focused, generosity and compassion are more valuable than ever. Teaching your child these qualities isn’t just about being “nice”, it builds their resilience, strengthens relationships, and helps them grow into confident, caring adults.

Model it daily

Kids watch more than they listen. Let them see you holding the door open for a stranger, giving a sincere compliment, or offering help to someone in need. These small acts stick. What they see you do is what they think you are as a person.

Involve them in giving

When you donate food, money, or time, bring your child into the process. Let them help choose the canned goods, wrap the gift, or write the card. This turns giving into a family habit, not a one-off event. Have conversations with them as to why you choose to donate. Talk about the difference it makes to your life.

Practice empathy in everyday moments

When a friend is upset, ask your child, “How do you think they’re feeling? What could we do to help?” These conversations build emotional intelligence and awareness. Developing sensitivity to others is an important tool.

Celebrate acts of kindness

Recognize when your child shows compassion, whether it’s sharing a snack or comforting a classmate. This reinforces the value of caring without turning it into a competition. Let them see that being kind is a sign of strength.

Make it part of family culture

Start a “kindness jar” where family members write down acts of generosity they’ve done or seen. Read them together once a week, it’s a powerful reminder that small actions matter. Talk about the value of kindness and how it has had an impact on your life.

Generosity and compassion aren’t skills to tick off a list, they’re regular ways of living. When you weave them into your family’s daily life, your child won’t just learn to care, they’ll grow up to change the world. For them it will be an automatic response in a world that can be from time to time harsh.

“Be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.”

— Maya Angelou

Emotional safety for your child gives them so much hope

This is all about ensuring that your child feels they are in a safe place emotionally and that those around them are trustworthy, reliable and have their interests at heart. The home environment should be a place where they feel valued, protected and loved.

Consider:

• Emotionally safe kids learn better and trust deeper.

• When children feel safe, they thrive, not just survive.

• Emotional safety builds confidence that lasts a lifetime.

• A safe heart is the foundation of strong mental health.

• Your calm is their courage. Your presence is their peace.

“We’re all imperfect parents and that’s OK. Tiny humans need connection not perfection.”

— LR Knost

Why Listening to Your Child Makes All the Difference

In the rush of daily life, school drop-offs, dinner prep, work emails, it’s easy to hear our children without truly listening. But the difference between the two is powerful.

When you really listen to your child, not while looking at your phone or thinking about your next task, but with full attention, you send a clear message: You matter. Your thoughts are important. I see you. My thoughts are secondary.

Here’s what effective listening looks like:

• Pause what you're doing and make eye contact.

• Reflect back what they’ve said: “It sounds like you felt left out at lunch today.”

• Resist the urge to jump in with solutions. Sometimes they just need a listener.

When you listen well:

• You will understand your child more deeply.

• You will feel better connected to them.

• They will feel more invited into conversations.

• You will enjoy your child more for what they really have to say.

Children who feel heard are more likely to talk, open up, and even cooperate more readily. In tough moments, your calm attention can be so powerful.

So today, take five minutes to listen with your whole self. You might be surprised at what your child has been waiting to tell you.

Be the Parent Who Models, Listens, and Grows

Every child is watching. More than your words, it's your actions that teach. So, here’s the best parenting advice in a nutshell:

Be the Example, Not the Exception

Children copy what they see. Show kindness, honesty, and patience—and they’ll learn to do the same. Want your child to handle conflict calmly? Let them see you do it. Want them to value others? Model respect in your daily interactions. Treat others with dignity and they will see the benefits.

Listen Like It Matters—Because It Does

Children speak in many ways: through words, behaviour, silence, and even eye rolls. Listen with your eyes, ears, and heart. Drop the phone, turn your face toward them, and listen fully. When children feel heard, they feel safe and that’s where trust grows. Think about how much listening time you gave your child each day.

Stay Curious, Not Controlling

You don’t need to have all the answers. Ask your child what they think. Be open to their ideas. A small suggestion from them might be a big step toward their confidence. The best parents aren’t perfect, they’re learning, adapting, and growing alongside their kids. Also they grow more independent when they see their opinions valued.

Bottom Line:

The most powerful thing you can do for your child is show them how to live with love, listen with care, and learn with humility. Do it with gentility and by keeping anxiety levels down to a minimum. It makes all the difference to your child.

“Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.”

— Haim Ginott

FEEL SAFE AND BE SAFE IS GOOD MENTAL HEALTH FOR YOUR CHILD

Keeping your child feeling safe can happen through sound basic habits.

Consider:

• Be their safe place

Let your child know they can talk to you about anything—no judgement, no overreaction. Just calm, caring presence. This also means keeping the volume of your voice down.

• Help them name their feelings

Use gentle words to label emotions: “You look frustrated” or “Are you feeling nervous?” Naming feelings helps kids manage them better. It also takes the sting out of the words.

• Create calming routines

Predictable routines give kids a sense of control and comfort, especially during transitions like bedtime or coming home from school. Talk about the routines and have them visual around the house.

• Stay calm yourself

Your mood sets the tone at home. When you stay grounded, you help your child feel steady, too. A child’s radar goes up quickly when they detect frustration from you. After that they shutdown.

• Focus on connection, not just correction

When your child makes a mistake, connect first—then guide. Try “Help me understand what happened,” instead of punishment right away. If upset create space before dealing with the issue. This helps you calm down.

• Celebrate little wins

  Praise effort, kindness, courage, things that build inner strength. It tells your child, you are more than just your results. The effort is what we are rewarding.

• Model self-care

Show them what it looks like to rest, breathe, talk things out, and ask for help. Kids copy what they see. A calm parent tells their child they are approachable.

These small choices add up. Every time your child feels emotionally safe with you, their confidence and resilience grow.

Why Really Listening to Your Child Matters

We’ve all done it. We nodded while our child is talking, but our minds are elsewhere. The dinner’s burning, a work email just pinged, or we’re mentally adding to the grocery list. But what if we told you that pausing and truly listening to your child, even for just a few minutes can shape their sense of security, boost their mental health, and strengthen your bond in ways that last a lifetime?

Listening Is More Than Hearing

Children don’t just need their words to be heard—they need to feel understood. When you give your child your full attention, you send a powerful message: You matter. Your thoughts matter. I’m here for you. Your voice is important.

The Everyday Magic of Listening

Let’s look at a few everyday examples:

• After School Decompression: Your child comes home from school and mumbles, “Today was awful.” You could brush it off with “You’re fine” or ask, “Want to tell me about it?” The second response shows care. You are not probing them with questions but merely suggesting you will listen.

• Tiny Voices, Big Feelings: A four-year-old melts down over the “wrong” colour cup. It’s tempting to say, “It doesn’t matter, just drink it.” But a better approach? “You really wanted the blue cup, didn’t you? That feels disappointing.” This response tells your child their feelings are real and manageable.

• Teen Talk: A teenager says, “I don’t think I’m good at anything.” That’s a big statement. Instead of jumping in with reassurance or solutions, try: “Tell me more. What makes you feel that way?” You’ll learn more, and they’ll feel safer opening up again. You are in fact a consultant there to listen wisely.

The Long-Term Payoff

When children know they are listened to:

• They’re more likely to talk to you when things are tough. They know that you will not jump in with judgements.

• They develop better emotional regulation. They become more in control.

• Their self-esteem grows. This is because people value them through listening.

• They feel safer, more connected, and less anxious. Why not when you have confidence that what you have to say is valued.

• They are more likely to seek out independence when allowed to talk freely uninhibited by opinions or judgements.

• A child feels worthy when being heard well.

• When a child feels heard by the parents they feel loved with shouting.

When children feel heard at home, they’re more likely to grow into adults who listen well, too.

Tips to Make Listening Easier

• Pause and Face Them: Even if it’s for a brief moment, give eye contact and undivided attention. Try not to get distracted.

• Repeat What You Heard: “So you felt left out at lunch?” This shows you're tuned in.

• Stay Curious, Not Critical: Questions like “What happened next?” or “How did that make you feel?” invite conversation.

• Resist the Fix-It Mode: Sometimes, they don’t need a solution—just a safe space to be heard. They will thank you for letting them solve their problems.

Final Thought

You don’t need to be a perfect parent, just be present. Listening is one of the simplest but most powerful tools we have. It doesn’t cost anything other than patience but can mean everything to your child. It is a big step in honouring their rights and dignity. The greatest gift you can give them isn't advice, it's attention.

“The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice”

— Peggy O' Mara

Letting Go, Little by Little: The Power of Gradual Independence

As parents, our natural instinct is to protect, guide, and sometimes even hover or else do the tasks for the child. But one of the greatest gifts we can give our children is the confidence to step out on their own, bit by bit. Slow and steady wins the race both for the child and the anxious parent. It is a learning process for both the child and parent.

Gradual independence isn’t about throwing them in the deep end. It’s about teaching them to swim with you nearby, cheering them on. It’s a process that builds resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills that last a lifetime. It teaches them how to learn effectively. Great process for building self esteem and strengthening mental health.

Why It Matters

Children need to feel capable. When we do everything for them, they may grow dependent—or worse, afraid to try. But when we coach rather than control, they learn to trust themselves. We also start to feel comfortable in letting go the reins. We need to understand that this is better parenting than keeping the controls all the time.

Practical Ways to Start

Here are some age-appropriate ways to encourage independence:

• For young children (3–7):

  Let them choose their outfit (even if it’s socks with sandals), help pack their lunch, or water the plants. Give praise for effort, not perfection. At an early age start giving them independent opportunities.

• For tweens (8–12):

  Let them manage their homework schedule, ride their bike to a friend’s house, or cook a simple meal. Let them try, then learn from mistakes in a safe space where there is only encouragement.

• For teens (13+):

  Involve them in decision-making, budgeting, planning outings, or solving their own friendship issues. Offer support, but resist jumping in too quickly. With social media work with them in deciding on what is suitable for them to view and use.

Real-Life Example

Ella, age 10, wanted to walk the dog alone. Her parents first walked behind her at a distance. The next week, she went solo but carried a phone. Today, she walks the dog confidently every morning. One small step, huge growth.

The Catch?

Yes, it can be messy. There may be forgotten lunchboxes, missed buses, or burnt toast. But those hiccups are how children learn and how parents learn to let go (just a little). Affirm all their efforts even if they are unsuccessful. They need to see that you value their efforts to be independent.

Final Word

Think of gradual independence as giving your child a toolkit. The earlier they learn to use it, the more prepared they’ll be when life really begins to test them. It will become more automatic for them overtime to work on problem issues themselves. There is nothing more satisfying than solving problems yourself!

So start small. Watch them grow. And remember, your goal isn’t to hold on forever. It’s to cheer them on as they fly. It is also a known fact, ask any teacher that a child learns faster and with confidence when they expect to do things for themselves. Dependent children become too reliant on others to give them solutions.

“In teaching me independence of thought, they have given me the greatest gift an adult can give to a child besides love and they had given me that also.”

— Bryce Courtenay

Growing Big Hearts: Teaching Children Generosity and Compassion

In a world where success is often measured by grades and achievement, it’s easy to forget the quiet strength of a generous heart or a compassionate word. Yet, these are the qualities that help children grow into kind, resilient, and truly emotionally strong, successful adults. As parents, we have a daily opportunity to nurture generosity and compassion through the small moments that add up to something powerful. Remember, your example here will make such a difference. The world of social media has stripped away so much of the gentler, more sensitive ways of communicating. They are much undervalued traits. Your teaching in the home environment can highlight how valuable a tool it is to be kind and generous.

Why It Matters

Generosity teaches children that they have something valuable to give. Time, kindness, attention, or a helping hand. Compassion teaches them to notice others’ feelings, to stand

beside someone who is struggling, and to act with care.

How to Teach It—Naturally and Daily

1. Model Generosity

Children watch us closely. Let them see you:

• Hold the door for someone with a smile.

• Share your time with a lonely neighbour.

• Speak kindly about others, even when they aren’t around or challenge you in different ways.

• Use good manners wherever possible and be a calm person who listens to others respectfully.

2. Create Small Opportunities to Give

Generosity doesn’t have to mean giving away toys or money. It might look like:

• Writing a kind note to a teacher. Let your child assist here.

• Helping a younger sibling with their socks.

• Giving up the best seat without being asked.

When these moments happen, pause to reflect: “That was generous of you. How do you think that made them feel?”

Use those words like generosity in your conversations.

3. Name the Feelings

When your child sees someone in need or distress, ask: “What do you think they’re feeling?” Helping children tune in to others builds their natural empathy. Compassion starts with noticing. It is healthy to talk about how others may feel after a crisis or trauma.

4. Tell Real Stories

Use stories—true ones from your life or the news about people who show compassion and generosity. Children remember stories far more than instructions. Share a time when someone was kind to you, or when a small act made a big difference. Notice people around you that show compassion to others. Name them.

5. Practise Together

Create family traditions around kindness:

• Have a "Kindness Jar", everyone writes down kind acts they saw or did.

• Choose one community service activity a term, a food drive, helping at church, or donating toys.

• At dinner, ask, “What’s one generous thing someone did today?”

• Read together books that teach compassion and generosity.

6. Celebrate the Heart, Not Just the Head

Praise children when they are kind, not just when they are clever. Say, “I loved the way you helped Jack when he dropped his books. That shows a strong heart.”

Final Thought

Raising generous and compassionate children is one of the greatest legacies we can leave. It doesn’t happen overnight, but with daily care, encouragement, and example, you’re growing a child ready to make the world better. No surprise that others gravitate around people who show generosity and compassion. It is so needed.

“Be kind and merciful.
Let no one ever come to you without coming away better and happier’”

— Mother Theresa

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

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

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

Practical tips for parents to help their children develop executive function skills

We are always keen to help our children improve their learning capacity at school. There are some practical and useful ways we can support them in this area. Many of the things you currently do may be also useful in supporting your child’s learning. Consider the ideas below that can all operate from the home environment. Perhaps you are currently using these techniques as part of your routine?

Create Daily Routines and Visual Schedules

• Why: Routines build predictability, helping children develop organisation and time management skills.

• How: Work with your child to create a visual schedule for school days, including tasks like homework, chores, and downtime. Use calendars, to-do lists, or apps that show progress, such as a checklist where they can cross off completed tasks.

Encourage Breaks and Time Management.

• Why: Children learn to manage their focus and energy better when they alternate between work and rest. We all need to learn the balance.

• How: Teach them to study for 25-minute blocks followed by 5-minute breaks (Pomodoro technique). Use timers to keep track, making it easier to stay focused and avoid burnout.

Use Games and Activities to Strengthen Working Memory

• Why: Strong working memory helps children hold and use information for tasks like following instructions and solving problems.

• How: Play memory-boosting games such as card-matching games, Simon Says, or apps designed to challenge working memory (e.g., puzzles or brain-training games).

Model and Teach Self-Regulation Strategies

• Why: Self-regulation helps children manage emotions and impulses, crucial for staying on task and following through on assignments.

• How: Practice mindfulness techniques together, such as deep breathing or counting to ten. Encourage them to pause before reacting impulsively to frustration or distractions.

Promote Independence Through Goal Setting and Reflection

• Why: Setting goals fosters accountability and helps children develop problem-solving skills.

• How: Start with small, achievable goals (e.g., “Complete maths homework by 5 PM”). Afterwards, discuss what worked and what could improve. This reflection builds self-awareness and teaches them to adjust their strategies over time.

These tips provide hands-on ways for parents to nurture their child’s executive function skills, making academic tasks easier and improving school performance. You will enjoy being actively involved with them and demonstrating how you also value ways to improve your ongoing learning.

“The wider the range of possibilities we offer children, the more intense will be their motivations and the richer their experiences.”

— Reggio Emilia

Mental well being needs to be nourished over the years

There is no quick fix to building a healthy mental state with our children. Slow steady consistent habits developed in your family can be great boosters for mental health.

Consider:

• Affirm the small achievements.

  They do not need to be on a large scale but you recognize in your child some simple milestones that they have made. That could be at school, sporting efforts, improved attitudes, showing generosity, demonstrating gratitude etc.

• Give them the liberty of talking about issues.

  Sometimes we jump in fairly quickly and can place judgement on what they have to say. Just be an effective listener without showing strong opinions and let the conversation flow. You may learn something interesting.

• Play and enjoy their childhood.

  A happy child who plays often and lives in a world where they can be creative and free show a greater ability to be less stressed throughout life. We all need a good childhood. Play with them.

• Gradually build their independence.

  From birth, a child is working to be more independent. Your support in giving them small opportunities as the years go by, will give them personal satisfaction in managing themselves. As they grow in independence, they feel emotionally in charge and ready for more challenges. They accept failure more easily and see it as a learning curve.

• Let them think critically

  A critical thinking child develops strong emotional independence. Talk frequently to your child and let them ask questions often. Guide them in thinking about optional viewpoints and keep their minds open to new ideas. A closed mind is dangerous

A child who learns to inquire about life is not frightened about the challenges it offers. In fact they invite them.

“Those foundation years need ongoing nourishment and enrichment to keep developing good mental health.”

— Gail J Smith

Encouraging your child to write well

Some children find writing a difficult task. They seem to feel blocked and struggle to start stories and certainly struggle to continue with them. Parents can help by providing some stimulating activities for their child to do that are not difficult but can motivate a child to write.

 Consider:

• Encourage Daily Journaling: Suggest that your child keep a daily journal. Writing about their day, feelings, or even imaginary stories can help them practise and improve their writing skills regularly.

•  Read Together Regularly: Expose your child to a variety of writing styles by reading together. Discuss the books, focusing on how different authors use language, structure their stories, and create vivid descriptions.

• Use Writing Prompts: Provide fun and engaging writing prompts to spark their creativity. Prompts like "Imagine you have a superpower for a day. What would you do?" can make writing exciting and less of a chore.

• Play Word Games: Engage in word games like Scrabble or Boggle. These games can expand vocabulary and improve language skills in a playful and interactive way.

• Incorporate Technology: Use writing apps and websites designed for kids. Programs like Grammar for Kids or fun writing games online can make writing more engaging and educational. Talk to your child’s teacher about what they would recommend.

• Write Letters: Encourage your child to write letters to family members, friends, or even pen pals. Writing letters can be a fun way to practise different writing and communication styles.

• Create a Family Newspaper: Start a family newspaper where everyone contributes articles, stories, or comics. This can be a collaborative project that makes writing a shared and enjoyable activity.

• Provide Constructive Feedback: When reviewing your child’s writing, offer positive feedback along with gentle suggestions for improvement. Focus on specific aspects, like adding more descriptive words or varying sentence structure.

• Use Visual Aids: Encourage your child to create storyboards or mind maps before writing. Visual planning can help them organise their thoughts and improve the overall structure of their writing.

• Set a Writing Example: Share your own writing with your child. Show them drafts, edits, and final versions to demonstrate the writing process and the importance of revision and improvement.

• Start A Sentence: Make it a game. You start a sentence, and they finish it. “Yesterday I found an interesting rock. It was……”

• Play with Reading Books: When you are reading a book occasionally stop. Let them see that the written word has power and invite your child to change the story. Perhaps they could suggest a different ending.

Have plenty of books and magazines around the house and occasionally read little segments from them out loud. A child's imagination will be enlivened when they begin to talk about their passions and interests. When they start to be motivated about something, encourage them to write about it. Let them see that the written word has power.

“When we write, we feel, see and hear the words.’

 -Gail J Smith

Keep A Look Out For Signs Of Stress In Your Child

We live in a world where we intermittently check in on our children's mental health. The pressures through social media and other youth-driven challenges alert us to the need to be vigilant. Below are some known triggers that can be a sign of unacceptable stress in your child. Some stress is normal, and we live with it, finding ways to work it through our life. However, when stress is out of control, we need to intervene.  Occasionally tap into your child's well-being index by checking in to these signs:

Changes in Sleep Patterns

Difficulty falling or staying asleep or frequent nightmares can indicate stress. Conversely, a child may sleep excessively to escape stressful feelings.

Behavioural Changes

Increased irritability, mood swings, or withdrawal from family and friends can be signs of stress. A usually outgoing child becoming withdrawn or a calm child suddenly acting out can be indicators.

Physical Symptoms

 Complaints of headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained physical symptoms can manifest as stress. These symptoms often occur without a medical cause and can be recurring.

Academic Performance

 A sudden drop in grades, lack of interest in school, or difficulty concentrating on schoolwork can be signs of stress. Stress can impact cognitive functions and overall academic engagement. Always check first with the teacher.

Changes in Eating Habits

Noticeable changes in appetite, such as eating much more or much less than usual, can be a response to stress. This includes skipping meals or binge eating.

Regression to Earlier Behaviours

 Reverting to behaviours typical of a younger age, such as bed wetting, clinginess, or thumb-sucking, can indicate that a child is experiencing stress and is seeking comfort.

 Frequent Crying

A child who cries easily or often without a clear reason may be experiencing stress. This can be a way for them to release pent-up emotions.

Avoidance Behaviours

 A child might try to avoid certain situations or activities that they previously enjoyed, or that are typical for their age group. This could include avoiding school, social events, or specific tasks.

Increased Dependency

 A stressed child may become more clingy or dependent on their parents or caregivers, seeking constant reassurance and comfort.

Excessive Worrying or Fearfulness

Persistent worry about various aspects of their life, including school, family, or friends, can be a sign of stress. This might manifest as asking repetitive questions about upcoming events or expressing fears that seem disproportionate to the situation.

When you build a relationship that is open and honest with your child, you will find that your child is more willing to talk to you about their feelings of stress. The above thoughts are just a guiding tool to raise your awareness of symptoms of unacceptable stress that may appear in your child from time to time.

 The stress your child feels will be lightened by your ever loving and understanding presence.  -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