A young learner pictured at his first day of school. Photo Nankali Kamwanga
A young learner pictured at his first day of school. Photo Nankali Kamwanga

Supporting your child’s journey to grade 1

Children thrive in a predictable environment.
Michaiyla Hansen
Being a parent and seeing your little one growing up is both exciting and daunting especially going to "big school" however, but follow these tips to make it easier on everyone!



Establish a routine

Children thrive in a predictable environment where they know what to expect. This fosters a sense of security and promotes positive behaviour. Consistent routines help children feel secure and better equipped to handle school challenges. This is particularly important for younger children as they transition into more structured school environments.



Foster a love for reading

The more children read, the better their reading skills become, and the more likely they are to enjoy reading. Research consistently shows that daily reading is one of the best ways to improve literacy skills. Encouraging a love for books can have lifelong benefits for your child’s education.



Encourage social skills

Social competence is more important than academic competence in determining success in later life, according to the Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education. Social skills can play a critical role in a child’s development and it's important to foster positive peer interactions to help children succeed academically and socially.



Stay involved

When parents are involved in their child's education, the child tends to do better academically and socially. Active involvement shows children that their education is important and it helps parents stay informed about their child’s needs and progress.



Encourage independence and responsibility

Teaching responsibility early builds independence and helps children develop life skills that will serve them well beyond first grade. The goal is not to create a perfect child, but one who can think for themselves, solve problems, and take responsibility for their actions.



Be patient and positive

It's important for parents to be patient and positive. Children need to feel supported and encouraged, not pressured or criticised. Patience and a positive outlook foster a growth mindset in children, encouraging them to keep trying and developing new skills without fear of failure.

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Republikein 2025-11-05

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