Giving constructive criticism to our children - both positive and negative - is an important part of parenting. Empty, generic praise ("What a lovely picture, darling"), well-meant encouragement that does the opposite ("At least you didn't come last") and angry disappointment ("I expected you to do better than that!") do not give a child much indication of what they are doing wrong or right.
Topics: Parenting, High School, Primary School, Preschool, Prep
We invest in our children's academic success, encourage their interests and support their emotional wellbeing ... but are we preparing them for the adult world by passing on basic life skills? Here's our list of vital skills all kids should master before leaving home:
Anxiety is currently the most common health condition in Australia. Anxiety disorder affects:
• 1 in 4 people
• 1 in 3 women
• 1 in 8 men
• 14 % of the population
40% of all people will experience a panic attack at some point in their lives.
Topics: Parenting, Teens, High School, Primary School, Social Skills, Health, Anxiety
Teenage anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide have skyrocketed since 2011. The iGeneration (iGen) – people born after 1995 – was the first demographic to spend its entire adolescence with a smartphone. Could there be a connection? Dr Jean Twenge, Professor of Psychology at San Diego State University, thinks so.
Topics: Parenting, Teens, High School, Internet, Social Media, Anxiety
Each year, King's organises a 10-year and a 20-year High School Reunion for its alumni. In 2025, King's will be hosting its first 30-year High School Reunion. While these events are full of love, laughter and memories, many former students report feelings of apprehension and inadequacy before the event.
Topics: School Leavers, High School, Alumni
Like many parents, I struggle with kids and screen time, most notably with computer games. I set time limits on play, check games are age-appropriate, ban devices from the bedroom and offer all sorts of alternative play and activities … but still get disheartened that my two boys would rather race virtual cars and navigate imaginary worlds than kick a football around or build Lego.
Topics: Parenting, High School, Internet, Primary School, Technology
