Capable Child

When children begin school, parents want them to settle and make friends. In my job as deputy head teacher, from time to time, I speak to parents who are concerned that their child is not making friends easily or are struggling to find other children to play with at lunchtimes. I often ask whether the child has other children over to play. The answer is often no, but arranging some play dates can be a positive step forward. Going on your first play date without your mum or dad is a rite of passage in the first years of primary school. These shared experiences cement friendships and build social skills. As a parent, you get an afternoon off the school run and time to get some jobs done. However, you are expected to return the favour… Play dates can be great fun but they can also include tears and cross voices. I have a few tricks that, hopefully, encourage things to go smoothly. 1.Sharing is a tricky business. It’s usually easier for children to share at school or nu...

Starting school is a huge event in a child’s (and parent’s) life. There are new routines, new clothes and other new children. Having seen this transition as a Deputy Head Teacher, and more recently as a parent, I believe that there are some things that parents can do to make this move as smooth as possible. Here are my top four thoughts. Firstly, there are some brilliant books about starting school. My all-time favourite is Starting School by the Alhbergs. It’s obviously dated in parts. For instance, most schools won’t have a mum who comes into school to play the piano! However, it is beautifully illustrated and shows the different parts of the school day and  events during the first term at school which provide lots to talk about. Other great titles are ‘Bella Starts School’ and ‘Harry and the Dinosaurs go to School’, both by Ian Whybrow. It’s well worth investing in a book or two, as they can be revisited lots of times during the school year. Secondly, ...