Modern childhood is filled with stimulation. Screens, organised activities, toys that “do” the imagining for them, and the constant pressure to be entertained — all of it adds up to a lifestyle where many children rarely experience true downtime. Yet developmental science is increasingly clear: boredom is not only healthy for children, it’s essential. Boredom Sparks … [Read more...] about The Silent Crisis in Childhood: No One Knows How to Be Bored Anymore
The 5 Skills Children Will Need in an AI Future (and 5 they wont)— And Why Traditional Schooling Isn’t Preparing Them
The world of work is transforming faster than at any time in the last century. Over the next five years, advances in artificial intelligence will automate many of the routine tasks that have quietly propped up whole industries. Data entry, form processing, basic customer service, software development, early-stage legal drafting, and even content creation are already being done … [Read more...] about The 5 Skills Children Will Need in an AI Future (and 5 they wont)— And Why Traditional Schooling Isn’t Preparing Them
It’s Just a Game… Or Is It? Why Children Not Knowing Conkers Should Make Us Pause for Thought
The other day, I brought out a basket of freshly fallen conkers at our weekly class of home educated kids, thinking we might enjoy a round or two of the game I grew up with. I expected instant recognition—excitement, even. But what I got were curious looks and genuine questions: “What are these for?” “What’s a conker game?” I was taken aback. Not in a judgmental way, but in … [Read more...] about It’s Just a Game… Or Is It? Why Children Not Knowing Conkers Should Make Us Pause for Thought
AirTags and Child Trackers: Safety Net or Symptom of Fear?
In an age where technology offers us instant connection and location tracking, many parents are turning to devices like Apple’s AirTags or GPS watches to keep tabs on their children. Marketed as tools to provide peace of mind and protect children from harm, these gadgets are becoming increasingly common in backpacks and coat pockets. But are we trading trust for … [Read more...] about AirTags and Child Trackers: Safety Net or Symptom of Fear?
A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Child with Anxiety
If your child shows signs of anxiety, you are not alone. In my work with hundreds of children each year through outdoor learning and forest school sessions at Ambleford, I’ve seen how common anxiety is among children of all ages. Sometimes it shows up quietly—in a child who clings to the edges of a group or activity—or more visibly, in tears and refusals to leave a parent. … [Read more...] about A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Child with Anxiety