Never heard of it? We’ve got all the information about Cynefin and its benefits for your children. 

What is cynefin?

Cynefin is a Welsh concept that means more than just habitat; it signifies a deep sense of belonging, rootedness, and identity. Culturally, it plays an essential role in Wales, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s place in the world and connections to community and heritage. This sense of belonging and identity is crucial for creating a cohesive and supportive community.

Cynefin in the new curriculum for Wales

The new curriculum aims to build a sense of belonging in children by incorporating Cynefin. It emphasises learning about local history, language, culture, and the environment, helping children understand and appreciate their heritage. By doing so, it strengthens their identity and connection to their community, promoting a well-rounded, inclusive education.

How does cynefin impact children?

1. Boosts self-esteem and social skills

Understanding and feeling a part of their Cynefin can have a profound impact on children’s development. It can:

• increase their self-esteem,
• enhance their social skills,
• and deepen their connection to their community.

When children feel a sense of belonging, they are more confident and better equipped to engage with the world around them.

2. Enhances cognitive and emotional development

Engaging with their cultural and historical context helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, it creates emotional resilience, as children who feel connected to their heritage and community often exhibit greater emotional stability. This comprehensive approach to learning supports not only their intellectual growth but also their emotional well-being, preparing them to navigate the world with confidence and a strong sense of identity.

How do schools promote cynefin  

Day-to-day activities to help embrace cynefin could include:

• Storytelling sessions: Sharing local legends.
• School trips: Visiting historical sites.
• Welsh language lessons: Learning the language and traditions.
• Community projects: Participating in local events.
• Nature walks: Exploring local nature to connect with the environment.
• Art projects: Creating artwork inspired by local culture and history.
• Guest speakers: Inviting community members to share stories and experiences.

How can we help our children with cynefin?

You can explore local history together, participate in community events, and encourage your children to ask questions about their heritage. These activities help reinforce the sense of belonging and rootedness that Cynefin promotes.

Building a supportive environment

Creating a supportive and inclusive environment is essential both at daycare and at home. Therefore, collaboration between daycare staff and parents is key to reinforcing the sense of belonging in children. 

By embracing Cynefin, we can help our children develop a strong sense of belonging and identity, fostering their overall development. Together, parents and daycare staff can create a supportive environment that nurtures confident and connected individuals.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Why is it important for a child to feel safe?
• Creating a Strong Foundation: Why Day Nurseries Are Essential for Early Learning
•  How to Help Your Children Identify and Manage Their Feelings
• 5 Valuable Life Skills that Children Learn Through Age Appropriate Chores

The post “Cynefin” – Building a Sense of Belonging in Our Children appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

We’re here to share some top tips for encouraging children to read – making the journey not just effective but incredibly fun for everyone involved.

Top tips for encouraging reading

There are so many benefits to reading.

• Reading for pleasure boosts literacy skills, making words their friends rather than foes.
• It fires up their imagination, turning them into little dreamers and thinkers.
• And guess what? It even gives them a leg up at school, leading to better academic performance across the board.

So here´s how to encourage it!

1. Create a reading-friendly environment

Now, onto crafting that perfect reading spot. Imagine a cosy corner where stories come to life, a place so inviting that even the most stubborn screen-lovers can’t resist. A comfy chair, soft lighting, and maybe a few cushions can transform any nook into a reader’s paradise.

2. Lead by example

When it comes to encouraging children to read, nothing beats showing them how it’s done. Let them catch you lost in a book, chuckling at a funny line, or gasping at a plot twist. It’s all about showing them that reading isn’t just homework; it’s a ticket to adventure.

3. Integrate reading into daily routines

Making reading a regular part of your family’s day can work wonders. How about a bedtime story that takes them to dreamland? Or some quiet reading time while dinner simmers away?

Why not mix things up with a family reading hour? Everyone grabs their book of choice and dives in. It’s a great way to show that reading is for everyone, not just for school or bedtime. 

Check out our other blog Benefits of reading to your child for more information.

4. Choose the right books

Picking the right book can be like finding the perfect pair of shoes – it just fits. It’s about what sparks your child’s curiosity. Whether they’re into dragons or detectives, there’s a book out there that’ll light up their eyes.

Getting them involved in choosing their next read can make all the difference. A trip to the library or a browse through a bookstore can be an adventure in itself.

5. Encourage discussion and interaction

Chatting about a book is a golden chance to dive deeper into your child’s imagination. Why not turn it into a game? Ask them whacky questions about the story or what they’d do if they met their favourite character. It’s all about encouraging children to read and then share the joy.

6. Celebrate reading achievements

Who doesn’t love a bit of fanfare for a job well done? Setting up a reward system for hitting reading milestones can turn it into a thrilling quest. Imagine the beam on their faces when they earn a new book or a themed bash for finishing a story. 

In a nutshell, making reading a joy rather than a duty can light up a child’s world. From creating snug reading spots to celebrating each book finished, it’s all about fostering a deep love for stories. Let’s embrace these adventures in reading, turning every page into a journey of discovery for our little ones.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Why Reading is So Important in the Early Years
• 9 Big Benefits of Reading to Your Child
• The 6 Best Potty Training Books (For Parents and Toddlers)
• Screen Free Activity Ideas To Do As A Family

The post How to encourage your children to read for pleasure appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

What is professional love?

Dr. Jools Page introduced the professional love in early years concept to describe the unique care educators provide, distinct from but complementary to parental love.

While parental love is, of course, deep and personal, professional love is more about providing a supportive, caring environment in a more educational setting.

Why is professional love important?

Emotional warmth and care are crucial for children to thrive, going way beyond just being nice to them. Professional love in early years education means really understanding what each child needs and building trusty relationships.

It’s not just about cuddles and kind words (though they’re important!). Professional love is about making children feel at home while keeping things professional. It’s about seeing them as whole people, where feeling good and safe is just as important as learning their ABCs.

Children who feel loved and secure are more curious, more eager to learn, and get along better with others. It’s all about being there for them in the right way, whether that’s with a comforting chat or just being by their side when they need it.

How professional love in early years works in practice

For parents, understanding how professional love in early years is applied can be reassuring. Here are some ways we put it into action at our daycare:

• We build trust with transparent communication: We regularly engage with families to build a foundation of trust. For example, we share insights about your child’s day, discuss developmental milestones, and are open about our caregiving approach.
• We focus on a responsive caregiving approach: We tailor our interactions to meet the individual needs of each child. For example, using Dr. Page’s Triangle of Professional Love (ToPL) as a guide to understand and respond to the emotional and developmental needs of children, we can ensure our approach is both caring and professional.
• We invest in our own professional development in emotional literacy: We invest in training for staff on understanding and managing our own emotions as well as recognising and responding to the emotions of children. This helps in nurturing emotional connections within professional boundaries.
• We establish clear policies and guidelines: We develop and communicate clear guidelines on physical contact, confidentiality, and interpersonal interactions within the setting. This helps staff understand their roles with confidence and clarity.
• We foster community and practice cultural sensitivity: We understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of the children in our care. Incorporating cultural sensitivity into our practice strengthens relationships with families and helps children feel valued and understood.

The transformative power of professional love in early years

The impact of professional love in early years is profound, benefiting both children and educators. It creates a secure environment where children feel valued, boosting their eagerness to learn and explore.

Understanding professional love helps parents see the value in early years education, not just for academic learning but for emotional and social development too. It’s about ensuring every child feels supported, understood, and ready to take on the world.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Creating a Strong Foundation: Why Day Nurseries Are Essential for Early Learning
• What are the Benefits of Sending Your Child to Nursery?
• Nurturing Wellbeing and Emotions: How to Help Your Children Identify and Manage Their Feelings

The post Professional Love in Early Years Settings: Why it´s Essential appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

These significant moments play a significant role in moulding their cognitive and physical development. So, we’re here to tell you about the best activities and experiences that can enrich these formative years, ensuring your child gets the best start in life.

a

1. Sensory Experiences for Babies: 

One of the most enriching things to do with baby is to introduce them to sensory play. Sensory experiences are vital for babies as they offer a world of discovery through touch, sound, and sight. 

• Soft Texture Exploration: Let your baby feel different textures, from the softness of cotton to the roughness of a clean sponge. This tactile exploration can be both calming and educational.

a

• Listening to Varied Sounds: From the gentle rustling of leaves to the rhythmic beats of a drum, exposing babies to a variety of sounds can stimulate their auditory senses and enhance their listening skills.

a

• Visual Stimulation with Colourful Objects: Bright, contrasting colours can captivate a baby’s attention, aiding in visual development and focus.

a

Read: How to Make a Sensory Bin for Toddlers: The Definitive Guide

a

2. Physical Activities for Growing Babies:

Physical activity isn’t just for adults; it’s one of the essential things to do with baby to ensure they develop robust motor skills. As babies grow, their bodies are eager to move, stretch, and explore.

• Tummy Time: Laying your baby on their belly strengthens their neck and shoulder muscles, preparing them for crawling and walking milestones.

a

• Baby Yoga: Baby yoga is a fantastic way to enhance flexibility and coordination. Plus, it’s a calming bonding experience for both parent and baby.

• Simple Baby Games: Games like “peek-a-boo” or “pat-a-cake” are not just fun; they also teach babies about rhythm, coordination, and anticipation.

a

3. Cognitive and Social Activities for Toddlers:

As babies blossom into curious toddlers, their need for cognitive and social stimulation intensifies. 

• Simple Puzzles: Introducing toddlers to basic puzzles can sharpen their problem-solving skills and enhance hand-eye coordination.

• Group Playdates: Social interactions are crucial at this age. Organising group playdates can help toddlers learn about sharing, empathy, and communication.

• Storytime and Interactive Reading: Reading isn’t just about recognising words. Toddlers can learn about emotions, expressions, and the world around them.

4. The Role of Nature and Outdoor Play:

One of the most enriching things to do with baby is to immerse them in the wonders of the natural world. The fresh air, the vibrant colours, and the mixture of textures and sounds offer a sensory feast for young minds.

• Nature Walks: Even a simple stroll in the park can be a learning experience. Pointing out different plants, animals, and sounds can stimulate a baby’s curiosity and appreciation for nature.

a

• Garden Exploration: If you have a garden, let your baby or toddler explore it. Feeling the grass, observing insects, or even helping with simple gardening tasks can be both fun and educational.

• Playing in Sand and Water: Beaches or even simple sand and water tables can provide hours of imaginative play, enhancing both physical and cognitive skills.

For a deeper understanding of the health benefits of outdoor play for children, the Gov.uk website offers valuable insights and recommendations.

Read: 6 Key Reasons to spend More Time Outdoors with Your Baby

Early Play and Experiences are Powerful!

The journey from baby to toddler is filled with endless opportunities for growth and development. From sensory play to social interactions, each experience plays a crucial role in shaping who they will become.

Parents, your proactive involvement in providing these enriching experiences can’t be overstated. The long-term benefits are immeasurable, and the joy you’ll witness as your child discovers the world around them is priceless.

___________________________________________

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

• From Newborn to 12 Months: A Quick Guide to a Baby’s Sleep Schedule
• A Guide to Nap Transition: How to Start Reducing Your Baby’s Naps
• What Are Tantrums and Why Do Toddlers Have Them?
• The 6 Best Potty Training Books (For Parents and Toddlers)

The post What experiences should I be introducing from baby to toddler? appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

That’s where our starting school checklist comes in.

This guide ensures you’re not just prepared but confidently equipped for the big day. Because while the first day of school is a milestone, being well-prepared can make it a joyous one.

1. Essential School Supplies Checklist

Uniforms and Clothing: The first-day photo is a cherished memory, so ensure your child looks the part. Invest in the school’s uniform, but also remember spare clothes for those unexpected spills. Don’t forget the PE kit for physical activities, and ensure you have weather-appropriate clothing – be it raincoats for drizzly days or sun hats for the warmer months.

Stationery and Learning Tools: Every budding scholar needs their tools. This part of the starting school checklist includes essentials like pencils, erasers, and notebooks. A colourful pencil case can also be a fun and practical addition.

Lunch and Snack Preparations: Nutrition is vital for a day full of learning. Invest in a sturdy lunchbox and a leak-proof water bottle, and when it comes to snacks, think healthy. Fresh fruits, yoghurt or a handful of nuts can be great energy boosters.

Personal Items: Labelled items such as backpacks, lunch bags, and water bottles not only ensure they don’t get lost but also instil a sense of ownership and responsibility in your child.

2. Emotional Preparation

Transitioning to school is as much an emotional journey as it is a practical one. As part of your starting school checklist, it’s essential to prepare your child mentally for this new chapter. 

Begin by discussing the new routine they’ll be adopting, perhaps by using a fun calendar or visual aids.

Reading books about starting school can also paint a positive picture and alleviate any jitters. If possible, visit the school beforehand, allowing your child to familiarise themselves with the environment. 

Lastly, a consistent bedtime routine ensures they’re well-rested, and always make time to discuss any anxieties or fears they might have, reassuring them every step of the way.

a

3. Building Independence

One of the most rewarding aspects of starting school is watching your child grow in independence. Simple tasks like tying shoelaces, packing their bags, or using the bathroom on their own can be monumental milestones. 

At Schoolhouse, we understand the importance of these skills. Drawing from our extensive experience in childcare, our starting school checklist and programmes are designed to nurture and develop these abilities, ensuring your child steps into school with confidence and self-reliance.

a

4. Staying Informed and Involved

Ticking off items from your starting school checklist is just the beginning. Stay in the loop by diligently reading all school communications – those newsletters and notices are golden nuggets of information. 

Make it a point to attend parent-teacher meetings; they’re the perfect avenue to understand your child’s progress and areas of improvement. And why stop there? Immerse yourself in school activities, be it a sports day or a school play.

** For a treasure trove of parent resources and tips, websites like Netmums are invaluable.

Embarking on the School Adventure: Your Starting School Checklist Completed

As we wrap up our comprehensive starting school checklist, let’s circle back to the heart of the matter: preparation.

 It’s the magic wand that transforms anxiety into excitement, and uncertainty into confidence. Parents, trust your instincts. You know your child best.

 And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Schoolhouse stands beside you, a steadfast partner, ensuring your child’s transition to school is as smooth and joyful as possible.

___________________________________________

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

• The ABCs of School Readiness: How to Get Your Child and Yourself Ready
• Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition
• Is Your Child Anxious to Start School? Here are 4 Essential Tips for Comforting Them
• 8 Signs Your Child is Suffering From Back-to-School Anxiety

The post Starting School Essentials: Parent Guide and Checklist appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

So to help smooth their transition and ease any anxieties, we’ve listed our top 10 tips to prepare your children for school:

1. Engage in lots of different activities

Your child will be involved in lots of different activities once they start school. So they will need to learn how to transition from one task to another.

By engaging in various activities at home (reading, playing, snacking), you can practice moving from one task to another whilst stimulating their brains in preparation for school.

2. Encourage independence

Although your child will have the help and support of their teachers, they won’t receive the undivided attention they’ve previously had at home. So it’s always a good idea to encourage them to become a bit more independent before starting school. You can start with simple tasks like putting their coat on or tidying away their toys.

3. Arrange play dates

Recognising a familiar face on the first day of school can really reduce your child’s anxiety. So, try acquainting them with the other children attending their school! Sparking friendships before term starts can make the whole transition much easier.

4. Take time apart

If your child is used to spending all their time at home, the thought of starting school may be even scarier. So instead of throwing them in the deep end, try scheduling some time apart. Afternoons spent with friends or family will help them adjust to spending time away from you and their usual environment.

5. Practise putting on their school uniform

For many children, the first day of school will be the first time they wear their uniforms. But it doesn’t have to be!

Allowing your child to practise putting on their uniform will help eliminate unnecessary stress on their first day.

6. Visit their school

Taking your child to visit their school is a great way to get them excited about this new adventure.

Most schools offer official open days, but if not, you can always call up and ask to take a look around. That way, you both have the opportunity to familiarise yourselves with this exciting new environment.

7. Create a morning routine

A consistent morning routine can be a great comfort to your child – especially when they’re going through so much change. So try and ensure each morning looks the same during the run-up to starting school.

8. Tackle toilet training

Not every child will be fully toilet trained by the time school starts – and that’s okay! However, it is a helpful skill to have. So try and tackle toilet training before term starts. It will encourage your child to become more independent whilst also teaching them valuable lessons like how to wash their hands.

Read: How to Master Potty Training: the Ultimate Guide

9. Talk about it

Change is scary – no matter how old you are. So make sure you’re talking to your child about starting school. Answering their questions can simultaneously ease their anxieties and encourage excitement!

10. Take care of yourself

Your child isn’t the only one going through a transitional period. So make sure you’re taking care of yourself too!

Try using this time to focus on other positive outlets like work or hobbies. And don’t forget to talk to other parents. They’re going through the exact same thing, so you may find comfort in their solidarity.

Read: Prepare For Starting School: A Guide for Anxious Parents

a

Embrace the next chapter

Although change is scary, it’s also the start of a brand new adventure! So try your best to embrace the change and enjoy all the new experiences school can offer you and your child.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Is Your Child Starting School? Here are 4 Tips for Comforting them 
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself) for School Separation Anxiety
• Top Tips on Getting Your Kids Out of Bed and Off to School

The post Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

If you‘re wondering how to teach your child about charity, here are 5 fun ideas to spark their interest:

1. Discuss what charity means

When we search the definition of charity, Oxford Languages provides us with two definitions:

1. ‘an organisation set up to provide help and raise money for those in need.’
2. ‘the voluntary giving of help, typically in the form of money, to those in need.’

So why is this important?

It’s important because being charitable doesn’t always mean donating to an organisation. There are many ways we can give back, whether that’s visiting someone who feels lonely or unwell, smiling at a stranger or helping with chores and errands.

So whilst the lesson is still centred around helping those in need, it shows our children that they can still be charitable, even if they aren’t old enough to make their own financial contributions.

2. Let them choose a charity

Sometimes, the question isn’t how to teach your child about charity, but rather how to get them excited about giving to charity. A fantastic way to do this is to let your child pick a charity they want to contribute to. Whether that means sponsoring an animal with WWF or donating their old clothes to charities like Bernardo’s, the goal is to find a charity that engages their interest and makes them want to help.

3. Set a positive example

Leading by example is one of the easiest yet most effective ways to teach your child about charity. By simply making a conscious effort to donate to charity shops and food banks, you’re showing your children that being charitable and helping others can be a small but significant part of our everyday lives.

4. Get them involved

Volunteer work is an incredible way to teach your children about charity. Why? Because, unlike most monetary donations, they can physically see how their contribution is making a difference. Plus, it reiterates to your children that they can still help others, even if they can’t afford to make a financial donation.

As we mentioned before, try and find a charity that interests your child. If they love animals, why not volunteer at an animal shelter for the afternoon? Or perhaps go litter picking if they’re enthusiastic about the environment!

5. Have fun fundraising

If you’re looking for more specific suggestions for how to teach your child about charity, then here are some fun fundraising ideas to get you started:

– Host a bake sale

– Run a car wash

– Do a sponsored walk

– Sell old books and toys

– Create a raffle

– Throw a barbecue

– Organise a charity football match

– Host a coffee morning

These events can help show your children that fundraising isn’t only a great way to support those less fortunate, but it can also be a lot of fun.

Be creative

So there we have it, five ways to teach your child about charity!

It’s so important that we help others and give generously, so we hope you feel inspired by our suggestions. Most importantly, we hope you have learnt how to teach your child about charity. The lessons they will learn through partaking in charitable activities are invaluable, and their contributions can truly change lives.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• 3 Easy Steps to Teach Your Child Kindness
• How to Teach your Children about Love and Kindness
• Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills

The post How to Teach Your Child about Charity appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Although many of us may have managed (and even if you feel like you haven’t, trust us when we say, you’ve done amazing), it’s good to be prepared for another few weeks and months of this juggling act (just in case). Yes, schools are starting to open up slowly again but we’ve been at this point before.

To help you bring order back to your life, here are our top homeschooling tips!

13 homeschooling tips for working parents

1. Acknowledge that you are attempting the nearly impossible

You are essentially trying to do two full-time jobs (which nobody could do), so please acknowledge that this just isn’t possible. This will help you lower your standards, be less critical of yourself, and prevent disappointment. Not to mention that reminding yourself of this will help you through the difficult times.

2. Don’t be too hard on yourself

It can be so easy to not feel like you’re doing a good enough job, so set realistic expectations! Did you know that on a school day, your children spend around 2-3 hours engaged in actual formal learning? The rest of the time is taken up by assembly, break times, lunchtime, P.E, Art, moving from classroom to classroom etc.

The point that we are making is if your child is doing at least 2 hours of academic study a day during lockdown, you’re doing really well with homeschooling!

3. Set a schedule

One of the best homeschooling tips we can give is to have a schedule for your day. By all means, be flexible, but having the same morning routine will do wonders for the whole family mentally and from a productivity point of view.

What hours do your children work best? Do they concentrate more if you start the day with a joint P.E. session together? What time will you have food breaks and downtime every day? When will you concentrate on your work?

4. Get dressed in normal clothes

Sounds silly, but our pyjamas or tracksuit bottoms actually negatively impact our mood and productivity.

Start the day by getting dressed in your ‘work clothes’ and encourage your children to do the same. Even allow them to choose their wardrobe if you want to. When everyone gets dressed, this signals to both you and your children that it is the start of the workday.

5. Dedicate a ‘school space’ in the house

This will help everyone switch on for work and to switch off when work is over. Where is the best place to have school at home? Do you have a spare room which is free from interruptions? Do you have a collapsable table or maybe you can corner off half of the dining table for school activities?

6. Use the material the school sends

If you’ve got children of different ages, it can be difficult to teach them both at their developmentally appropriate levels. For secondary school children, make sure they stick as much as possible to the guidance and materials being provided by the school.

For younger children, use the materials as a guide rather than the gospel. Most primary teachers are sending out a lot more material than parents need just to provide them with ideas and support, so use them as a starting point. You don’t have to get through them all, they are more for inspiration.

7. Learn through play

For younger children, play is the main way they learn about the world and build their intelligence. If you’re finding it hard to get your children to focus or you have a particularly busy workday yourself, assign your children ‘play’ activities. Things like messy play, heuristic play, and role-playing are perfect. You can also get some paper aeroplane kits for science or playing cards for maths. Let their imagination run wild – this is learning too.

8. Be guided by their passions

Take the pressure off both of you to learn by letting your children’s passions guide their learning. Does your child love drawing? Then get them to draw to explain a key learning point from a particular lesson or topic. Do they like acting or singing? Get them to make up a song that will help them remember. If your children are interested, they will be a lot more engaged and they will learn.

9. Do more real-world activities

Homeschooling doesn’t have to be all formal learning. After all, there are so many opportunities to learn through real-world activities! For example, if you want your child to practise their English, get them to write a letter to their grandparents. If you want them to practise science or maths, get them involved with baking or counting their toys as they tidy up.

Household tasks teache valuable life skills and make children feel like they are making a contribution to the family. Help them contribute more – this will reduce stress for you both, expand their skillset, and get them learning at the same time.

10. Motivation is key

How can you make learning fun? Find out what motivates your children and make it into a competition! Is there a way you can do daily rewards, weekly rewards and monthly rewards? It could be something as simple as being able to choose what food they have at the end of the week or choosing the film for film night.

11. Reading counts as homeschooling

If they are not up for learning, don’t push it. Get them to read instead. Reading counts as homeschooling because it stimulates the imagination; it develops emotional intelligence and expands vocabulary. If they do nothing else for the rest of the day, getting in some reading time is still a job well done.

12. Avoid multi-tasking

While it may be tempting to do a bit of work and then a bit of homeschooling or even some work while you’re waiting for them to complete a task…try not to multi-task. Not only will you be less efficient and effective at both, but it will also make you feel incredibly tired.

We work best when we have uninterrupted focus so work in the morning and then it’s ‘school time’ or vice versa. Find a routine that works best for everyone (and keep them separate).

13. Don’t panic and don’t compare

One of the most important homeschooling tips is don’t panic and don’t compare. Trust us when we say, every other child in the country isn’t completing hours and hours of schoolwork every day. Every parent is just trying their best, and that’s more than enough.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas or advice? See more from us here:

• 7 ways to support your child when they return to school after lockdown
• 15 energy-burning activities for children stuck indoors
• Your Wellbeing Guide: How to Look After Yourself and Your Family During Isolation
• How to Recognise if Your Child is Stressed and What to Do

The post Homeschooling tips for superhero parents working from home appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.