The Primary Years

A Principal's Perspective on Raising Happy Kids

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It really matters to listen to your child →

June 12, 2024 by Gail Smith in active listening, Appreciation, Communication, Confidence, Experiences, Family, Emotions, Gratitude, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Problem Solving, relationship, Self Confidence, Self-Esteem

Listening to your child is crucial for building and strengthening your relationship with them. Gail Smith explains five compelling reasons why attentive listening truly matters.

June 12, 2024 /Gail Smith

The Primary Years, gail smith, Trust, connection, Emotional Intelligence, Problem Solving, communication, Listening skills

active listening, Appreciation, Communication, Confidence, Experiences, Family, Emotions, Gratitude, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Problem Solving, relationship, Self Confidence, Self-Esteem

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Ten Steps to more effective parenting →

May 21, 2024 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Confidence, Education, Family, Happiness, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Self Confidence, Support, Values, Role model

Parenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about doing your best, even when life throws challenges your way. Changing circumstances can sometimes make it feel like we’re falling short, but often, we’re doing better than we think. Gail Smith’s checklist is here to help you reflect on your parenting habits and recognize the great job you’re doing.

May 21, 2024 /Gail Smith

The Primary Years, gail smith, family, parents, parenthood, Children, role model, communication, Ritual, self-worth, guidance

Children, Communication, Confidence, Education, Family, Happiness, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Self Confidence, Support, Values, Role model

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Let’s reflect on how we are going in our parenting →

May 15, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Communication, Children, Confidence, Education, Emotions, Experiences, Family, Independence, Listening, Parenting, relationship, Well being, Values

Parenting is like a river, always moving and changing with our children's needs. As they grow, we should grow too. Take a moment now and then to see how you're doing as a parent. Gail Smiths shares some great ideas to help you build an even better bond with your child.

May 15, 2024 /Gail Smith

The Primary Years, gail smith, Parenting, communication, Family Value, family, raising children, Fostering Independence

Behaviour, Communication, Children, Confidence, Education, Emotions, Experiences, Family, Independence, Listening, Parenting, relationship, Well being, Values

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Valuable resources for mastering effective communication with your child →

April 30, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Emotions, Family, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, relationship, Support, Listening, active listening

In the hustle of a busy day, we might find ourselves talking quickly and sharply to our children. This can be frustrating for both parents and kids, as everyone wants to be heard and understood. It's normal to feel irritated when we don't get a response or feel like no one is listening. Gail Smith has some great tips to help us support our children and improve our conversations. Learning these skills can make a huge difference in how we communicate.

April 30, 2024 /Gail Smith

The Primary Years, gail smith, communication, effective communication, active listening, compassion, Listening skills, children, family, parenting, parenting tips

Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Emotions, Family, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, relationship, Support, Listening, active listening

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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