The Primary Years

A Principal's Perspective on Raising Happy Kids

  • Home
  • About the Author
  • Memoirs of a School Principal
  • Parenting-blogs-tips
  • Books
  • Public Speaking
  • Media
  • Contact Us

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

March 06, 2025 by Gail Smith in Achievement, active listening, Activity, Appreciation, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Decision Making, Education, Family, Learning, Listening, Mental Support, Parenting, Resilience, Role model, school, School involvement, Starting School, Starting Term, Stress, Support, Worry

School life is full of twists, turns, and loop-the-loops. As a parent, you’re the safety harness, keeping your child steady through the ups and downs. But how can you support them without adding to the pressure? Here’s the quick-start guide to helping your child navigate school life with confidence and ease.

Read More
March 06, 2025 /Gail Smith
family, The Primary Years, gail smith, School Life, raising children, Children, School, effort, listening, Resilience, energy, school involvement, Lead by example
Achievement, active listening, Activity, Appreciation, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Decision Making, Education, Family, Learning, Listening, Mental Support, Parenting, Resilience, Role model, school, School involvement, Starting School, Starting Term, Stress, Support, Worry
Comment

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

February 19, 2025 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Education, Empowerment, Experiences, Family, Finding Help, Learning, Listening, Parenting, relationship, Responsibility, school, School involvement, Starting School, Starting Term, Support, Technology, Work life balance

Balancing work, life, and your child’s school commitments can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Gail Smith shares five simple yet practical tips to help busy parents stay engaged with their child’s education while managing their own demanding schedules. While perfection may be out of reach, these strategies can help you find a better, more manageable balance.

Read More
February 19, 2025 /Gail Smith
The Primary Years, gail smith, school experience, School Involvement, raising children, communication, School Life, Parenting, parenting Tips, Technology, Check-in, Prioritization, Learning, learning is innovative, Collaboration
Children, Communication, Education, Empowerment, Experiences, Family, Finding Help, Learning, Listening, Parenting, relationship, Responsibility, school, School involvement, Starting School, Starting Term, Support, Technology, Work life balance
Comment

You have produced a book that contains specific ways in helping young children, families, teachers, and others toward the goal of raising happy children.
I find it a reminder for adults to take a look at ourselves and revue the lessons we may have forgotten in the turmoil of living.
Wise and well done, Gail.

Nadine M