An academically average child is completely okay, as most people live ordinary, happy lives. Be honest about whether your expectations are realistic, support your child calmly after reports, celebrate small improvements, avoid comparisons with siblings or peers and encourage their unique interests, because high pressure can cause anxiety and fear of failure.
Parents can help with schoolwork at home by setting a non-negotiable routine for lunch, relaxation and homework, providing a quiet study space and guiding with instructions rather than giving answers. Ask your child to explain what they learnt, limit screen time to one or two hours a day, ensure 8 to 10 hours of sleep and praise small achievements.
In a video interview, WorksheetCloud parent Shaz Pillay describes how she discovered her daughter had been misdiagnosed with ADD or ADHD. She shares the warning signs parents should look out for and how parents can support their child emotionally while working through a possible misdiagnosis and the assessment process.
To prepare for Term 2 June exams, parents can check that school notes are complete, create a study plan that tackles difficult work first and review the timetable as a family. A quiet study space, study methods that suit the child’s learning style, a balanced diet, 20 to 30 minute study sessions, enough sleep and practice exams also help.
Parents can develop critical thinking skills in children by encouraging creativity through art projects, playing puzzles and games, asking children to imagine solutions to real-world problems and debating opposing viewpoints. Children think more critically when they feel comfortable reasoning through problems, know there may be more than one correct answer and feel their input is respected.
Learning through play matters because play supports a child’s cognitive, physical, social and emotional development, including language, critical thinking, confidence and creativity. Children benefit from both structured play guided by adults and unstructured free play. Parents can help by making time for play, praising effort and letting children explore at their own pace without comparing them to others.
