At the time of writing, it is the beginning of February and the new school year has just begun. For many families, it’s the beginning of a whole new chapter as their child starts school for the first time.
For other families, Prep is a year away, and many parents will be concerned whether their child will be ready for school in 12 months time.
When a child begins Prep, parents are often unsure as to what foundations and skills their little learner should be equipped with.
Topics: Parenting, Primary School, Social Skills, Preschool, Prep, Friendship
Chess is often considered a game suited only to intellectually gifted people. People assume that to play chess you must already have a rather high level of intelligence or at least be ‘a little bit smart’. While chess may be more instantly appealing to those whose minds already think in a strategic ‘chess-like' manner, research is showing that this increasingly popular game has significant benefits for everyone.
Topics: High School, Primary School, Prep, Numeracy
The concept of respectful relationships, including consent, has been discussed at a school level for some time, but it hasn’t yet gained universal traction with families. Lacking confidence and unsure where to start, many parents have struggled to make headway in this area. If this sounds familiar, these ideas will help you make a start.
Topics: Teens, High School, Behaviour, Primary School, Social Skills, Preschool, Prep, Toddlers, Boys
Saying goodbye is never easy. Particularly on the first day of school. Excitement, apprehension, tears and clinginess are perfectly normal responses for the child beginning Prep. But no-one wants to leave their child sobbing and distressed with their new teacher.
Topics: Primary School, Prep, Anxiety
What's the protocol for parents who choose not to 'do Santa' with their kids? One mum highlights the pitfalls...
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When my brother was seven, the teacher called him a "nasty little liar" and made him sit outside the classroom all afternoon for telling Julie Ashbrook that Santa didn't exist.
Topics: Parenting, Primary School, Preschool, Prep, Christmas
Who’s for a quick game of cards?
Card games help reinforce maths strategies learnt at school in a fun and informal way. They let children learn from experience, develop ‘mathematical fluency’ and improve memory and confidence.
Here are 10 great games to play with your children to sharpen up their primary maths skills ...
Topics: Primary School, Prep, Numeracy
