Author: Mel WAGENAAREducational Psychologist, Teacher and Mother, South Africa Mention the word “chores” alongside “small children,” and many people express horror and dismay, fearing a return to the dark days of child labour reminiscent of the Industrial Revolution when young children were often forced into harsh labour conditions, such as working in coal mines, […]
Chores and Children: Cultivating Confidence and Connection 了解更多
Chores and Children: Cultivating Confidence and Connection Why should young children do chores? Engaging young children in chores helps them develop a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and independence. By participating in household tasks, children learn essential life skills and experience the pride that comes from contributing to the family. What age is appropriate to start
Chores and Children: Cultivating Confidence and Connection 了解更多
Author: Mel WAGENAAREducational Psychologist, Teacher and Mother, South Africa Years of experience as an educational psychologist have led me to the conclusion that while early intervention is preferable, ALL forms of accredited, positive, professional intervention during your child’s educational journey can be beneficial, even if the results are not immediately or glaringly evident. The effects
Empowering Parents: Addressing Learning Delays in Hong Kong 了解更多
Empowering Parents: Addressing Learning Delays in Hong Kong What are learning delays, and how can I recognize them in my child? Learning delays refer to difficulties in acquiring skills in areas such as language, motor skills, and social interaction compared to peers. Signs to look for include difficulty forming words or sentences, trouble coordinating movements
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Author: Mel WAGENAAREducational Psychologist, Teacher and Mother, South Africa Getting your child accepted to study at a desired school or institution can be a stressful process. As an educational psychologist in practice who sees many anxious families, all trying to do the “best” for their child, this is a very relevant topic for discussion. Starting
A Smooth Start to Schooling: navigating entrance interviews and parent stress 了解更多
A Smooth Start to Schooling: navigating entrance interviews and parent stress What are common stressors for Hong Kong parents when their child starts school? Parents often experience several stressors, including intense academic expectations that many schools in Hong Kong uphold from an early age. This pressure can lead to anxiety about their child’s performance. Additionally,
A Smooth Start to Schooling: navigating entrance interviews and parent stress 了解更多
Author: Mel WAGENAAREducational Psychologist, Teacher and Mother, South Africa There is much pressure in the Hong Kong system which highly values strong academic performance; the practice of many extracurricular classes from English to Mathematics and everything in between adds to the parental concern of getting your child into a “good” school. This has resulted in
Ready, Steady, Go… to School! 了解更多
Ready, Steady, Go… to School! What is the concept of school readiness, and why is it important? School readiness refers to a child’s preparedness for the academic, social, and emotional demands of school. It is vital as it sets the foundation for lifelong learning and helps children transition smoothly into formal education. What are the
Ready, Steady, Go… to School! 了解更多
Author: Mel WAGENAAREducational Psychologist, Teacher and Mother, South Africa In today’s urbanized world, the benefits of outdoor play for young children cannot be overstated. For parents in Hong Kong, integrating outdoor play into your toddler’s routine presents unique challenges and opportunities. This article explores the many benefits of outdoor play and provides practical advice for
Urban Nature: Encouraging Outdoor Play for Toddlers in Hong Kong 了解更多
Urban Nature: Encouraging Outdoor Play for Toddlers in Hong Kong What are the main benefits of outdoor play for toddlers? Outdoor play enhances physical development by improving motor skills and overall fitness. It fosters cognitive development through exploration and problem-solving. Additionally, it promotes social and emotional development by encouraging social interactions, teamwork, resilience, and emotional
Urban Nature: Encouraging Outdoor Play for Toddlers in Hong Kong 了解更多
