It is often said that a child’s education starts at home, so why is it when our children go to school that we often feel we have relinquished all rights to input into their learning?
A positive and collaborative home-school relationship is pivotal in creating a supportive environment which encourages learning. Over the years society has become more complicated and these relationships have all too often degenerated. Unfortunately, in many communities, educators and parents just do not seem to have enough time to get to know one another and establish relationships on behalf of the children. Sometimes parents feel discouraged from visiting classrooms and teachers rarely consult with families unless a child is in trouble. The result of this situation is a clear division of home and school with misunderstanding, uncertainty and a lack of mutual respect. This can ultimately lead to a vicious cycle of teachers blaming the parents and parents blaming the teachers which, of course, is a worst-case scenario but it highlights the idea that when parents and teachers are active partners in a child’s education there is more chance of success.
So how do we produce a strong home-school connection that will set the stage for a child who will grow up with a love for learning? The resounding answer is clear and authentic communication. The problem, however, is that it needs to occur from both ends to be most effective. Families need to be interested, invested, available and realistic. They need to ensure they speak positively about the school, show how they value education and be willing to accept suggestions and praise. Teachers need to be approachable, open-minded, considerate and available. They must ensure they take the time to get to know the students and share their observations and understanding with families whilst showing respect and involving families in the child’s learning process. If you put these things together it is a recipe for success which will ultimately lead to a home-school relationship conducive to well-being and learning for the student.

​As featured in: Glenmore Gazette, Emu + Leonay Gazette, Mulgoa Gazette, Oran Park Gazette & Jordan Springs Gazette - April '18

School has been back for over a month. Homework and sport commitments have started. Assignments are rolling in. It’s often this time of the year we start to reflect on routines and expectations, especially when it comes to our children. Is my child getting enough exercise and sleep? Is he studying enough? Is she overusing technology and always glued to her phone or tablet? How do I ensure my child is living a balanced life when technology is embedded in our everyday lives?  
It is no secret that technology is changing, and has changed, the way that we live. We rely on it to communicate, play, pay bills and work. We even use it in our schools to aid learning. Educational settings are adorned with Interactive White Boards, laptops, tablets and computers. Some schools participate in the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program use web-based learning platforms to set tasks and encourage self-directed learning and virtual interaction between students and teachers. Technology in educational settings allows for greater global connection, instant access to information and prepares students for their ever-changing digital future. There is no denying this fact.
Although technology usage in schools certainly has massive benefits, there are many concerns about the detrimental effects technology can have on children. Childhood obesity, the degradation of social skills and shift in family dynamics, bullying and accessing inappropriate content are all serious and valid fears held by parents and experts in this field. It is imperative that we remain vigilant and considered when allowing children to use of technology and set boundaries and rules for usage that are reasonable. Schools already have these policies in place.
What is reasonable, you ask? Well, it is not just about minimising the time spent using technology but rather what that time is spent doing. You need to ask yourself if the digital interaction adding value to your child’s life in some way. If the answer to that question is yes, then it is most likely an activity that would sit comfortably within the ’acceptable’ parameters for your family. If technology usage is causing changes in behaviour, lack of adequate rest and physical activity or impacting on your ‘real-life’ interactions then it is probably something that needs to be reviewed and clear guidelines put in place. If you are concerned about your child’s safety online, check out www.esafety.gov.au for some helpful tips and resources.

As featured in: Glenmore Gazette, Emu + Leonay Gazette, Jordan Springs Gazette - March '18​