Anxiety before exams, often referred to as test anxiety, is a common experience for many students. Anxiety is a normal response to the unknown. It signals that the student cares about the result and serves as a reminder to prepare as best as possible. It also stems from various factors, including fear of failure, pressure […]

It can be an exciting and challenging time moving up in the school system from primary or intermediate school to secondary school. You are moving from being the big fish in a small pond to the exact opposite. It can be really daunting for some. Below are 10 key ideas and strategies to help make […]

If you realise your responsibility, you will realise your destiny.  -Tasneem Hameed As part of the journey to adulthood, teaching your child to be responsible is essential. I believe taking responsibility for your actions, mistakes, and behaviour is one of the most significant steps to becoming an independent adult. When your child is young, it […]

Tips and ideas to make the next few weeks work… First and foremost, if your children are home from school you are not expected to be the Teacher. You are the Parent. It is important to ensure you are clear on your role. If Teachers have set work, encourage your child to complete it. If […]

If your teen is in their exam years it can be a very stressful time – for both of you. Exams are not the be all and end all for your teen and these years are a great way to help prepare them for the world of employment in the years ahead. Life can at […]

Let’s face it – none of us are perfect and there are times when we make mistakes, screw up and hurt the feelings of others. We all have our limits – and when we overstep the mark, an apology is required. As a parent, teacher, leader, friend and wife I have given many apologies – […]

I was recently challenged to give a twelve minute talk at the African International Schools’ Conference in Nairobi, Kenya on the topic of ‘The lesson I want my students to learn.’ There were so many options I simply had to pluralise my offering. What follows is a summary of my talk. “It’s not fair!” “She […]

School holidays are upon us yet again and as a parent you may either dread or love the thought of having your children at home for 2 weeks. Holidays are a chance for children to relax, kick back, families to connect and make memories. Over the years I have created a special family tradition in the […]

Whilst on holiday, tragedy struck the young girl next door… her mother died. It was unexpected. She had been unwell and the hospital wanted to do an urgent scan and had scheduled it for the following week. She died before that day. The young girl, I’ll call her Claire, is 10 years old and an only […]

Recently a parent asked for some reading material as his daughter had been cheating & lying. He was wanting to find out more to help parent through this situation. I sent him this video: (It is a 40min watch and worth it) and recommended Ana Homayoun‘s book, ‘The Myth of the Perfect Girl’. With further reflection, I […]