It is important to speak well to your children →

July 31, 2024 by Gail Smith in active listening, Appreciation, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Confidence, Decision Making, Education, Emotional Intelligence, Family, Emotions, Gratitude, Kindness, Language, Language development, Language skills, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, relationship, Role model, Self Confidence, Self Esteem

Children quickly pick up on what you say and how you say it, understanding the value you place on them. Gail Smith highlights six compelling reasons why speaking positively to children is crucial and the potential harm caused when we don’t. This insightful blog post sheds light on the importance of nurturing communication.

How To Keep Your Anger Under Control Around Children →

July 24, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Children, Communication, Confrontation, Education, Emotional Intelligence, Family, Learning, Mental Support, Parenting, relationship, Well being

Feeling angry from time to time is natural, especially when tired or overwhelmed, but frequent displays of anger can significantly impact children. Intermittent anger can confuse and distress them, often causing them to withdraw. Gail Smith shares useful strategies to help you manage your anger.

Persevering as a parent makes such a difference to your child →

July 24, 2024 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Education, Emotional Intelligence, Emotions, Learning, Mental Support, Mindfulness, Perseverance, Well being, Worry

Parenting can be incredibly challenging, especially on days when you’re exhausted and overwhelmed. While scaling back on some parenting responsibilities might ease your burden, remember that perseverance will ultimately pay off. Gail Smith highlights the benefits of maintaining perseverance in parenting.

Keep A Look Out For Signs Of Stress In Your Child →

July 17, 2024 by Julie Merrett in Authenticity, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Confidence, Councelling Techniques, Counselling Tips, Education, Emotions, Experiences, Family, Finding Help, Mental Support, Parenting, Problem Solving, Safety, Responsibility, Self Esteem, Sleep, Stress, Support, Trauma, Well being

In today's world, we often check in on our children's mental health. Social media and other challenges faced by youth remind us to stay vigilant. Gail Smith points out some common triggers that may indicate your child is under too much stress. By recognizing these signs, you can better gauge your child's well-being and offer support when needed. It's important to keep an eye out for these cues to ensure your child feels safe and supported.

The importance of your child attending school regularly →

June 19, 2024 by Gail Smith in Achievement, Activity, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Happiness, Independence, Learning, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, school, School involvement, Self Confidence, Self Esteem, Starting School, Well being

Ensuring your child is keen and interested in school is vital. When they feel it's important to attend, you can be reassured they are engaged with their school environment. Gail Smith shares five essential reasons why regular attendance is crucial for a well-adjusted child at school. Discover these insights to support your child's educational journey.

How to choose the best school for your child? →

June 19, 2024 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Decision Making, Education, Experiences, Learning, Parenting, Problem Solving, Responsibility, school, School involvement

Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision. While no school is perfect, it's essential that children feel welcomed and safe to learn. So, how do you select the best school? Gail Smith shares insightful pointers to help you navigate this crucial aspect of raising children.

Information every parent should know about their child's school →

June 19, 2024 by Gail Smith in Activity, Children, Communication, Education, Family, Learning, Parenting, Responsibility, school, School involvement, Support

Schools can be complex environments, but staying connected can make navigating them much easier. Gail Smith offers valuable tips to help parents gain a deeper understanding and more rewarding experience of school life.

Let’s remind ourselves that as parents we are doing a great job →

June 12, 2024 by Gail Smith in Appreciation, Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Experiences, Family, Finding Help, Happiness, Mindfulness, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, Role model, Self Confidence, Self Esteem, Well being, Values, Authenticity, Self-Esteem

Your words, deeds, and actions are powerful examples for your child, shaping their understanding of life. Never underestimate the impact you're having on your child. Parenting in an imperfect world comes with its ups and downs, and it can sometimes feel like your efforts aren't making a difference. Gail Smith shares some reflections to remind us that our efforts are making a difference, even if the impact isn't always visible.

Helping your child navigate social challenges at school →

June 05, 2024 by Gail Smith in Anxiety, Behaviour, Children, Decision Making, Discrimination, Education, Emotions, Experiences, Family

Social challenges at school are a normal part of growing up. When your child navigates these situations well, they grow in both intellectual and social maturity. Encouraging your child to stay optimistic and believe in their ability to overcome social issues is crucial. Here are some tips to help them understand that there are many ways to work through social challenges.

Helping our children to love reading →

June 05, 2024 by Gail Smith in Activity, Appreciation, Behaviour, Children, Education, Family, Experiences, Happiness, Language, Learning, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, Reading, Role Model, school, Screen time, Technology, Well being, Library

Just as we need a balanced diet for our health, our children need a balance between books and other forms of entertainment. Explore these strategies to help your child develop a love for reading amidst the digital distractions.

As a parent be involved in your child's school. →

May 29, 2024 by Gail Smith in Activity, Appreciation, Children, Communication, Education, Experiences, Family, Learning, Responsibility, school, Support, School involvement

Your child spends many hours per week at school, making it a significant part of their life. By engaging in their school journey, you reinforce the value of formal learning and support their emotional and intellectual growth. It's crucial to be part of that experience. Gail Smith shares several effective ways for parents to ensure excellent communication and involvement in their child's school life. Read on to discover how you can make a positive impact!

Let's get our kids involved in sport and fitness →

May 29, 2024 by Gail Smith in Achievement, Activity, Children, Confidence, Education, Experiences, Family, Parenting, School Sports, Sporting Club, Sports

Creating a love for physical activities and sports in your child starts at home. Gail Smith shares her insights on encouraging kids to get involved in sports and fitness, helping them build a lifelong love for being active.

Ten Steps to more effective parenting →

May 21, 2024 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Confidence, Education, Family, Happiness, Learning, Listening, Parenting, Self Confidence, Support, Values, Role model

Parenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about doing your best, even when life throws challenges your way. Changing circumstances can sometimes make it feel like we’re falling short, but often, we’re doing better than we think. Gail Smith’s checklist is here to help you reflect on your parenting habits and recognize the great job you’re doing.

Let’s reflect on how we are going in our parenting →

May 15, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Communication, Children, Confidence, Education, Emotions, Experiences, Family, Independence, Listening, Parenting, relationship, Well being, Values

Parenting is like a river, always moving and changing with our children's needs. As they grow, we should grow too. Take a moment now and then to see how you're doing as a parent. Gail Smiths shares some great ideas to help you build an even better bond with your child.

Helping children cope with distressing media →

May 08, 2024 by Gail Smith in Activity, Children, Communication, Education, Family, Learning, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, Responsibility, Safety, Screen time, Well being

Help your kids understand that the internet is like a tool. It can be used for good or not so good things. Teach them to be in control of what they see and how they use it. With your guidance, they can learn to use social media wisely and understand the digital world better. Gail Smith has some great tips on how to do this.

Building resilience in girls around today's Social Challenges →

May 08, 2024 by Gail Smith in active listening, Appreciation, Children, Communication, Confidence, Education, Family, Parenting, Problem Solving, Raising girls, relationship, Self Confidence, Resilience

By instilling positive thinking and self-support skills, we can help our girls grow into strong, confident individuals capable of making informed decisions for their safety and well-being. Gail Smith shares her insights on what we, as parents, can do to help our developing girls feel stronger and safer.

Valuable resources for mastering effective communication with your child →

April 30, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Emotions, Family, Parenting, Positive Behaviour, relationship, Support, Listening, active listening

In the hustle of a busy day, we might find ourselves talking quickly and sharply to our children. This can be frustrating for both parents and kids, as everyone wants to be heard and understood. It's normal to feel irritated when we don't get a response or feel like no one is listening. Gail Smith has some great tips to help us support our children and improve our conversations. Learning these skills can make a huge difference in how we communicate.

The best way to influence your child is through modelling →

April 30, 2024 by Gail Smith in Children, Communication, Education, Family, Parenting, Personality, Positive Behaviour, relationship, Support, Role Model

When you have a strong bond with your child, you can teach them important values in a positive way. Kids often copy adults they look up to. You have a big influence on your child's life, so it's important to lead by example. Gail Smith explains why being a good role model is the best way to guide your child.

Using 'I' statements to get your message across to your child →

April 30, 2024 by Gail Smith in Behaviour, Children, Communication, Education, Emotions, Family, Learning, relationship, Well being

"I" statements are about expressing your needs and feelings directly, fostering genuine communication. They help your child understand your perspective better, whether you're addressing a concern or praising their actions. Together with Gail Smith, let’s explore the impact of "I" statements in family communication.

Let take a good look at why boredom can be a good thing →

April 24, 2024 by Gail Smith in Activity, Christmas, Education, Happiness, Independence, Raising Boys, Raising girls, School Holidays, Relax, Starting Term, Starting School, Technology

Discover the benefits of embracing boredom! Gail Smiths explains how encouraging children to slow down and enjoy moments of stillness can lead to new ideas and creativity. Let's create space for quiet reflection and see the magic it brings to their lives!