Educational Blog
Free resources, tips, and insights for parents and educators.
5/18/2025
10 books to encourage a lifelong love for reading!
Remember those books that transported you to another world as a child? The ones that sparked your imagination and stayed with you long after the cover closed? Encouraging that same lifelong love of reading in your own child starts with sharing truly magical stories. This post dives into ten timeless classics – from the munching adventures of a very hungry caterpillar to the whimsical worlds of Wonderland and Hogwarts – that have captivated generations. Discover why these beloved books continue to delight young readers and find inspiration for making storytime an enchanting and enriching experience for your family.
5/16/2025
Helping Your Child Learn and Grow at Home
Parenting is a journey filled with love and learning – for both you and your child! Sometimes, the idea of supporting their education can feel daunting, leaving you wondering if you're doing enough. But the wonderful truth is, you don't need elaborate lessons or expensive resources. This post explores how weaving simple, everyday activities into your routine – from sharing stories and playing with sounds to measuring ingredients and spotting shapes – can build crucial foundations in reading, phonics, math, and telling time. Discover practical, actionable tips that turn ordinary moments into powerful learning opportunities, helping your child thrive with confidence. Plus, find out how expert guidance, like our phonics mini-course, can make the journey even smoother!
5/14/2025
How Children Learn in Schools in the UK & Northern Ireland
Navigating the education system can sometimes feel complex. From the Early Years Foundation Stage to GCSEs and beyond, each key stage focuses on different skills and knowledge. Understanding how lessons are delivered – through whole-class teaching, group work, and hands-on learning – and how progress is assessed can help you better support your child. This guide provides a clear overview of age ranges, the National Curriculum, assessment methods, and how learning is structured, including the specific approach in Northern Ireland. By understanding the system, we can work together to help every child flourish.
5/13/2025
Your Child and the Pandemic: Why Now Matters More Than Ever
The COVID-19 pandemic has left lasting impacts on our youngest learners. Reading and math skills have slipped, and the gap between disadvantaged students and their peers has widened significantly. As a primary school teacher, I've seen these challenges firsthand. But parents and carers have a vital role to play. Real learning doesn't just happen in the classroom – it happens in everyday moments. By making small changes, like incorporating counting into kitchen tasks or pointing out numbers on the school run, we can make a real difference. You're not alone in this. Let's work together to help our children bounce back stronger than ever.
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