In this year we encourage our children with positive praise and routine to be as independent as possible. Putting on their own shoes, packing up their bags and belongings and using the toys and art supplies at school with respect and care. By allowing to practice these skills daily at school along with some small responsibilities at home, we are setting them up to be successful. It’s also important for them to know how to ask for help when they feel they need it.

Not every child is happy to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Some other ways to encourage your child to eat their snacks is to cut sandwiches into fun shapes, get them involved in packing their own lunch box or trying out a few of these options: toasted cheese, chicken nuggets, mini pancakes. Ham or biltong, cubed cheese, hot dogs, noodles, oat bars or cereal. A small variety of snacks usually work best.

Have an early night and a calm well prepared morning routine. Talk to your child about their day at school and make it positive. Have playdates where you can guide your child how to share and take turns. Talk to them about feelings and how to deal with the feelings they have. At morning drop off. Make goodbyes quick and happy and know they are going to have a busy and wonderful day at school.

Make it fun, play card games like UNO or snakes and ladders, read bed time stories and make up fun stories together as a family. Point out signs and numbers when you are out and about. Build blocks and puzzles and draw pictures together and just play,play play. Teachable moments are everywhere. Strength in hand and overall body strength is a big focus in this year, so activities that strengthen these muscles will also assist in their academic development.