Chris Curtain

Is your young child starting to push and pull objects? Maybe even moving things like coffee tables or even the highchair! We brainstormed at a Raising Mamas Playgroup morning,  simple things that you have at home that your growing baby could use to push and pull. We came up with a washing basket as a … Read more

Being a Role Model and Creating a Purpose When children see adults use writing, they begin to understand its function or purpose. Involving your child in a writing or drawing task further teaches them about how writing is used in everyday life. At the same time, the child will be developing their fine motor and … Read more

Parents can incorporate teaching about emotions in everyday life. Ideas include: Let your child know that emotions are a normal part of life, and big emotions such as getting angry or frustrated are ok. Talk about your own feelings and be the role model for language and coping strategies, e.g. ‘Oh this is still not … Read more

A cardboard box is a simple, yet powerful play choice when it comes to fostering imaginative play. The box can transform into different settings and scenarios depending on the child’s creativity and interests on the day. Whether it be a spaceship, base, office, shop, garage, tent, library, or cozy home for a family of stuffed … Read more

Starting school is such an exciting and important milestone for a child and their family. Change will be a big part of this transition with new people, places, experiences and feelings. There are many ways to build a child’s familiarity with the changes and support a confident transition to ‘big school’.  Help your child to … Read more

There are a few traps for parents in this area of teaching, and without realising it, we can end up encouraging emotional distress in children. Triple P suggests to be mindful of: Spending too much time talking about your own feelings and troubles with the child Dwelling on an upsetting experience for too long Being … Read more

Timers work very well for lots of children as they support organisation, time management and also can reduce anxiety as the child knows when one thing will end, and what to expect next. Some effective uses are: Timing of an activity that the child is only going to have for a short time, e.g. screen … Read more

Protecting children from failing and going above and beyond in some cases to ensure a child’s success is often thought to be in the best interests of the child, ensuring their self-esteem and confidence remain intact. However, experiencing failure actually prepares children for life. ‘Having a go’ and learning through trial and error encourages persistence … Read more