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
Should children be ready for school or schools ready for children?
Are Children Less Ready for School — Or Are Expectations Too High? In recent years, there has been growing concern among teachers, parents, and policymakers that many children are starting school without the skills they need to succeed. Reports and headlines often highlight worrying statistics — from children struggling with speech and language delays to Reception teachers … [Read more...] about Should children be ready for school or schools ready for children?
Could Your Child’s Behaviour Be Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)? A Guide for Parents and Educators
In recent years, growing awareness around Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) has begun to challenge mainstream assumptions about autism, behaviour, and education. As a specialist tutor of children who present with PDA profiles, I see time and again how traditional models of schooling – with their emphasis on routine, compliance, and externally imposed structure – inadvertently … [Read more...] about Could Your Child’s Behaviour Be Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)? A Guide for Parents and Educators
Outdoor Schooling: just playtime or a necessity?
Why Outdoor Schooling Offers a Rigorous Yet Child-Centred Alternative to Traditional Education In recent years, outdoor schooling has grown in popularity as parents and educators search for alternatives to traditional classroom-based education. Often mistakenly perceived as less academically rigorous, outdoor schooling is proving to be not only equally challenging but also … [Read more...] about Outdoor Schooling: just playtime or a necessity?
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?