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Many children face challenges in achieving academic success due to a lack of study skills, difficulties with concentration, or inadequate support at home. Parents can significantly support their child’s academic performance by implementing effective strategies and offering consistent encouragement.

This guide outlines practical steps on how to improve child academic performance through structured study routines, supportive communication, and proactive involvement in their educational journey. The following strategies can cultivate a child’s positive attitude toward education and achieve better results.

1. Establish a Consistent Study Routine
2. Communicate with Your Children and Educators
3. Create Academic Expectations
4. Support Children’s Homework
5. Hire an Online Tutor
6. Limit Your Child’s Screen Time
7. Engage Child’s Physical Exercises
8. Find Appropriate Play-Based Learning Activities
9. Encourage Your Child Properly
10. Teach Your Children About Respect and Discipline

1. Establish a Consistent Study Routine

A consistent study routine promotes the development of good habits, enhances organisational skills, and boosts productivity. Moreover, a structured routine fosters stability and security for effective time management.

This practice supports academic success and improves overall health by ensuring adequate rest, which is vital for physical and mental well-being. Parents should also remind children of their academic goals to help them stay committed to the learning plan.

2. Communicate with Your Children and Educators

Effective communication between parents, children, and educators is crucial in improving academic performance. The specific strategies to establish clear communication for both aspects include:

• Communicating with Children
  • Choose the right time: Talk to your child when you have their full attention. Preferably, wait until you are home and can engage in a focused discussion.
  • Begin with positives: Start the conversation by acknowledging your child’s strengths and accomplishments. For example, mention how well they did on a recent project before discussing areas needing improvement.
  • Use concrete examples: Provide specific instances to help your child understand your feedback. Instead of saying, “You need to do better in math”, say, “I noticed you struggled with the multiplication section on your last test”.

• Stimulate dialogue: Approach conversations as a dialogue, encouraging your child to express their thoughts and perspectives. Understand their needs and concerns to foster mutual understanding and constructive communication.
• Set clear goals: Establish achievable goals together. For instance, if your child needs to improve their reading skills, set a goal of reading for 20 minutes each day.
• Follow up regularly: Maintain ongoing communication to monitor progress. If necessary, adjust goals and strategies based on your child’s improvement.
• Communicating with Educators
  • Schedule appointments: Instead of impromptu chats during drop-off or pick-up times, schedule a formal meeting to ensure meticulous preparation between both parties for productive discussion.
  • Prepare in advance: Before the meeting, organise your thoughts and list specific concerns or questions. For instance, if your child is struggling with science, note down specific topics or concepts causing difficulties.

• Communicate clearly: Express your concerns and observations concisely and provide examples. For example, mention specific incidents of your child struggling with homework.
• Collaborate on solutions: Work with the teacher to develop a plan of action. For example, if your child struggles in math, set incremental goals such as improving test scores by practising specific problems at home.

3. Create Academic Expectations

Regarding how to improve child academic performance, parents should set clear and realistic academic goals that align with their child’s strengths and challenges. Here are some aspects that can suggest parents adjust their expectations of their children’s academic performance:

• Recognise individuality: Each child develops at their own pace. Set expectations based on their unique strengths and challenges rather than in comparison to peers. For example, if your child excels in reading but struggles with math, set separate goals that reflect these differences.
• Avoid projecting your challenges: Do not let your academic struggles influence your child’s expectations. If you found math difficult, acknowledge that your child might have a different experience and could excel in it. Boost their enthusiasm and provide support based on their strengths.

• Offer enthusiastic support: Support your child’s efforts with genuine enthusiasm. Instead of only pointing out areas needing improvement, celebrate their successes and progress. If your child improves their test score, acknowledge this effort enthusiastically.
• Set realistic expectations: Ensure your goals are achievable and appropriate for your child’s current capabilities. For example, if your child is learning to write, set a goal of writing a paragraph rather than an entire essay.
• Accept and support through challenges: Understand that setbacks are part of learning. When your child struggles, provide support and encouragement rather than viewing it as a failure. Help them understand that challenges are growth opportunities.

4. Support Children’s Homework

Parents can implement various strategies for improving child academic performance. Here are specific tips on how to improve child academic performance:

• Create a dedicated homework space: Establish a well-lit, comfortable, and quiet area free from distractions like TV or video games. Equip the space with essential supplies such as pens, pencils, paper, calculators, and a dictionary. A high-traffic area like the kitchen is ideal for younger children, allowing for supervision and encouragement.
• Teach organizational skills: Motivate your child to use organisational tools like calendars, assignment notebooks, and planners to keep track of homework tasks. Ensure they write down assignments clearly and entirely and regularly check their work. Use a pocket folder or binder section specifically for completed homework.

• Provide guidance without doing the work: Support your child by discussing concepts and offering guidance, but avoid giving answers or completing assignments. Inspire them to re-read chapters, attempt problems independently, and review their work for accuracy. Use phrases like, “Let’s read this together” to foster self-sufficiency.
• Address homework meltdowns calmly: If your child becomes overwhelmed, respond calmly and validate their feelings. Suggest short breaks for movement or deep breaths before returning to the task. Identify potential triggers, such as challenging assignments or looming deadlines, and provide targeted support.
• Highlight real-world applications: Relate academic concepts to real-life scenarios. For instance, show how math skills are used in budgeting or cooking and connect historical events to current news. This helps children understand the relevance of their homework and view it as an opportunity to build valuable skills.

5. Hire an Online Tutor

To enhance child academic performance, parents can consider hiring an online tutor who can provide targeted educational support. Here are key tips:

• Seek recommendations: Ask other parents or trusted sources for recommendations based on their experiences with online tutors. First-hand insights can help select a tutor who aligns well with your child’s needs and learning style.
• Set your budget: Determine your budget for online tutoring services. When evaluating costs, consider factors like the tutor’s experience and availability. Ensure the chosen tutor offers a balance of affordability and quality instruction.

• Assess experience and qualifications: Verify the tutor’s background and expertise in the subject matter. Look for educators with relevant teaching experience and qualifications that match your child’s educational requirements. A tutor’s proficiency directly impacts your child’s learning outcomes.
• Consider online tutoring agencies: Explore online tutoring agencies that vet their tutors rigorously. These agencies often have a diverse pool of qualified educators across various subjects. They conduct thorough background checks to ensure high standards of teaching quality and reliability.
• Request progress reports: Choose an online tutor who provides regular progress reports. Monitoring your child’s development ensures transparency and adjusts tutoring strategies as needed. Effective communication between tutor, student, and parent facilitates optimal learning outcomes.

6. Limit Your Child’s Screen Time

Parents can limit their child’s screen time to help them focus more in school. The practical tips to gradually separate your child from electronic devices include:

• Set clear expectations: Establish rules and goals to reduce screen time with your child. This is how parents affect children’s academic performance at home. Utilise device features that allow setting time limits to enforce boundaries effectively.
• Start gradually: If your child spends excessive time on screens, set achievable goals. Instead of making drastic cuts immediately, start by gradually reducing their screen time.

• Engage in face-to-face time: Dedicate quality time after school or work to engage in face-to-face conversations with your child. This fosters better communication and strengthens family bonds without reliance on screens.
• Designate screen-free zones: Create areas in the home, such as dining or family rooms, where screens are not allowed. This will stimulate meaningful interactions and reduce distractions during meals and family time.
• Establish device-free hours: Designate specific times or hours during the day as screen-free, encouraging activities like outdoor play or reading instead.

7. Engage Child’s Physical Exercises

Incorporating regular physical exercises improves child academic performance. Physical activity enhances cognitive skills and academic behaviour, fostering a conducive environment for learning.

• Encourage everyday opportunities: Ensure your child has daily chances for physical activity, whether dancing indoors, playing with balls outdoors, or engaging in active games they enjoy.
• Utilise available spaces: Use any space for physical play, whether at home, in parks, community centres, or with friends. Provide opportunities for diverse physical activities to keep them engaged and active.

• Allocate dedicated time: Adjust your family schedule to prioritise active playtime with your child, such as visiting parks or playing sports together. Incorporate physical activities into daily routines to make it a consistent part of their day.
• Offer variety in activities: Introduce activities like climbing, cycling, or ball games to keep your child interested and physically active. Explore different options based on their interests to maintain enthusiasm and skill development.
• Walk together: Take regular walks with your child, whether to school, around the neighbourhood, or on nature trails. Walking promotes physical health and provides valuable opportunities for bonding and exploration.

8. Find Appropriate Play-Based Learning Activities

Regarding how to improve child academic performance, engaging in play-based learning activities is beneficial. Here are effective strategies parents can use:

• Sand play: Utilize sand play to teach scientific concepts and promote physical development. Scooping, pouring, and sifting enhance muscle coordination and teamwork skills.
• Water play: Encourage water play for experimenting with concepts like volume and understanding cause-and-effect relationships. It also enhances hand-eye coordination and physical strength.

• Play dough: Play dough strengthens fine motor skills and creativity. Threading beads or shaping the dough with tools supports hand-eye coordination and cognitive development.
• Dress-up and role play: Dress-up activities foster imagination and social skills. Role-playing as doctors, chefs, or astronauts helps children explore different roles and understand societal roles and responsibilities.
• Doll and character play: Provide dolls and mini-figures to promote storytelling and emotional expression, which supports social interaction and helps children develop empathy and communication skills.

9. Encourage Your Child Properly

When considering how to improve child academic performance, it’s vital to encourage them effectively.

• Avoid labels: Highlight your child’s strengths when acknowledging their efforts in tasks. For example, instead of praising an A grade, discuss how their attention to detail contributed to their success.
• Ask thoughtful questions: Rather than making statements, ask open-ended questions to prompt reflection on how they achieved a task or their feelings about a project.

• Be honest and authentic: Avoid empty praise and be genuine in your feedback. Children appreciate honesty and respond better to sincere and specific feedback.
• Shift pronouns: Encourage your child to take pride in their accomplishments by shifting the focus from “I” statements to “You” statements.
• Focus on the journey: Recognise and celebrate when your child meets or exceeds expectations. For instance, if they achieve a high grade in a challenging subject, celebrate their hard work and dedication.

10. Teach Your Children About Respect and Discipline

On how to improve child academic performance, parents can teach them respect and discipline.

• Model behaviour: Through your actions and words, demonstrate respectful behaviour and discipline. Children learn by observing, so showing respect in interactions with others sets a powerful example.
• Impose consequences: Clearly communicate consequences for misbehaviour and follow through consistently. For instance, explain that toys will be put away if not cleaned up as agreed, and stick to this consequence to reinforce responsibility.

• Listen and understand: Allow your child to express themselves fully before addressing issues. Understanding their perspective helps address underlying causes of misbehaviour rather than just reacting to it.
• Give attention wisely: Use attention strategically to reinforce positive and discourage negative behaviours. Positive attention for good behaviour can be more effective than negative attention for bad behaviour.
• Know when to ignore: Ignore minor misbehaviour that is not dangerous and ensure your child receives attention primarily for positive behaviours. This approach helps children learn natural consequences and self-regulation.

How Can UNIS Hanoi Improve Child’s Academic Performance?

UNIS Hanoi offers a comprehensive academic programme that prioritises each student’s needs and capabilities, grounded in local and international educational perspectives. As a three-programme IB World School, we are dedicated to fostering excellent learning experiences where students extend their thinking, reflect on their learning, and engage actively in a supportive environment.

Based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme from Early Years to Grade 12, our curriculum emphasises developing critical skills and global citizenship, preparing students to connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.

Apply now to UNIS Hanoi and discover how to improve child academic performance with a world-class education!

Essential life skills for children involve critical thinking, problem-solving, communicating, decision-making, and other capabilities, enabling children to address challenges with resilience and confidence. Developing these kids life skills early on cultivates well-rounded individuals capable of thriving in diverse environments.

The World Health Organization defines life skills as the abilities for adaptive and positive behaviour that enable individuals to handle everyday demands and challenges effectively. Similarly, UNICEF defines life skills as a behaviour change approach that addresses knowledge, attitude, and skills, emphasizing that effective behaviour change requires competency in all three areas.

These children’s life skills comprise knowledge, attitudes, and competencies that boost mental well-being and enhance competence, particularly in health and social contexts. They equip young people with the capability to manage diverse situations.

This article explores 13 essential life skills that empower children to excel academically and lead fulfilling personal and professional lives, shaping them into adaptable and resourceful contributors to society.

1. Critical Thinking

Critical thinking skills encourage children to ask questions, identify problems, and find solutions based on available evidence. By developing this skill, children can comprehend learning materials thoroughly to develop their own opinions and ideas.

Here are some strategies to develop critical thinking skills for children:

• Ask open-ended questions: Instead of giving instant answers to children’s queries, you should help them think critically with questions like “What are your opinions?” or “What’s in your minds?”. Respect their responses whether you agree with them or not.
• Encourage the child to think differently: Thinking in different ways supports developing a child’s curiosity and creative skills. Let them think of all available solutions for the problems by analyzing and interpreting given information.
• Don’t intervene immediately: Let your child use their strategies to solve an issue. As children need challenges to grow, intervening less with gentle guidance allows them more time to think and attempt a task.

2. Decision Making

Effective decision-making equips young people with the capacity to control impulses and make informed choices. This skill also facilitates independence and enhances their ability to navigate complex situations confidently.

To nurture decision-making skills in kids, consider the following strategies:

• Provide chances to practise: Introduce decision-making processes and scenarios tailored to their age and understanding, as these are essential for developing leadership skills for kids. Gradually increase the complexity of decisions as children gain experience and maturity.
• Support for autonomy: Offer guidance and structure while allowing children to make decisions appropriate to their level of responsibility. Avoid consistently making decisions on their behalf, as this can hinder their development of independent thinking and judgment skills.

• Require responsibility: Assign tasks and responsibilities that necessitate decision-making, such as managing personal belongings or contributing to household chores. These opportunities enable children to take initiative and demonstrate accountability.
• Teach values: Discuss and exemplify positive values such as honesty, respect, and empathy. By integrating these values into decision-making discussions, children learn to align their choices with ethical considerations, enabling a foundation for principle-based decision-making.

3. Problem Solving

By developing problem-solving skills, children learn to approach obstacles systematically and creatively, overcoming difficulties with more confidence. Here are strategies to cultivate problem-solving skills in kids:

• Stimulate creativity: Provide opportunities for children to think innovatively about unconventional solutions. Facilitate creative play and imaginative problem-solving activities that stimulate their curiosity and resourcefulness.
• Engage in problem-solving games: Engage children in games that require strategic thinking and decision-making, such as puzzles or scavenger hunts. These activities are entertaining and effective in sharpening problem-solving abilities across various contexts.

• Ask for their help: Involve children in decision-making processes and problem-solving discussions. Soliciting their input stimulates critical thinking and empowers them to contribute meaningfully to resolving issues.
• Explore multiple solutions: Prompt children to explore diverse solutions to problems, encouraging creativity and expanding their problem-solving repertoire. Discussing various options boosts analytical thinking and a habit of considering alternative perspectives.

4. Creative Thinking

Creative thinking skills aid in developing neural connections and assimilating new concepts, making them an invaluable asset for children. Here are several strategies to cultivate creative thinking in children:

• Foster curiosity with “what if?” questions: Motivate children to ask hypothetical questions to stimulate their imagination and creative problem-solving skills. For example, ask, “What if animals could talk?” This enables children to think about the world in new and innovative ways.
• Transform mistakes into learning opportunities: When children encounter challenges, guide them to find positive aspects and new solutions. For instance, if a child struggles with spelling, suggest they create a song incorporating the problematic words, making the learning experience enjoyable and memorable.

• Pose open-ended questions: Engage children with open-ended questions that require more than a simple yes or no answer. This practice helps them develop their ideas and think more deeply. Questions like, “What do you think will happen if we mix these two colours?” can provoke thoughtful and creative responses.
• Promote creative risk-taking: Try new and challenging activities to motivate children to take creative risks. Whether attempting a complex drawing or learning a new song, focusing on the creative process rather than the outcome helps them embrace new perspectives and innovative approaches.

5. Communicating

Mastering effective communication enhances children’s ability to express thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly and confidently, which facilitates better social interactions and academic success. Here are practical strategies to develop effective communication skills in kids:

• Facilitate detailed descriptions of their day: Ask your child to recount their day in detail, prompting them with questions like, “What were the best and worst parts of school?” This practice enhances their recall and sequencing abilities. Share details about your day as well to model compelling storytelling.

• Actively listen and expand on their ideas: Demonstrate active listening by repeating what your child says and then expanding on it with a follow-up question. For instance, if they describe an art project, you might say, “That project sounds intricate. What other project would you like to try, and what materials would you need?”
• Highlight and explain body language: Teach your child about nonverbal cues by pointing out and explaining body language. For example, say, “I’m crossing my arms because I feel frustrated,” or, “When you roll your eyes, it seems disrespectful.”

• Initiate engaging conversations: Start discussions on fun and imaginative topics, like “What was the funniest thing that happened at school today?” or “What do you think the other side of the moon looks like?” This approach reinforces how to teach your child conversation skills by encouraging them to think creatively and communicate more freely.

6. Interpersonal Relationships

Developing these life skills for kids allows individuals to communicate thoughts and emotions clearly, nurturing positive interactions and understanding. Here are strategies to cultivate this skill in children:

• Promote expressive communication at home: Motivate children to express themselves freely at home. This practice lays the foundation for understanding how to convey ideas clearly and respectfully in interpersonal interactions.
• Explore diverse forms of communication: Discuss with children how people communicate beyond words, such as through gestures and facial expressions. Engage them in activities that enhance their awareness of non-verbal cues, like interpreting emotions from facial expressions or demonstrating feelings without using words.

• Support engagement in hobbies and interests: Enable children to participate in clubs, programmes, and activities aligned with their interests. Activities like team sports or group classes allow children to interact with others with similar interests, stimulating natural connections and improving interpersonal life skills to teach kids.
• Guide through challenges: Assist children in handling difficult emotions and situations, such as disagreements or conflicts. Prompt using “I” statements to express feelings and perspectives clearly. Teach them the importance of empathy and understanding different viewpoints to resolve conflicts constructively.

7. Self-Awareness

Cultivating self-awareness in children offers improved emotional regulation, enhanced decision-making skills, increased empathy, and boosted self-confidence. To develop self-awareness in children, consider the following strategies:

• Encourage journal writing: Inspire children to maintain a journal to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This practice helps them identify patterns in their feelings and gain deeper insights into their emotional landscape. Drawing or using a simple coding system to represent emotions can serve a similar purpose for younger children.
• Create a personal achievement chart: Establish a chart where children can document their accomplishments, no matter how small. This practice offers a sense of pride and achievement, encouraging children to recognise their progress and areas for growth.

• Create self-portraits or vision boards: Have children create self-portraits or vision boards that reflect their goals and aspirations. This visual representation aids self-discovery and reinforces their identity and purpose.

• Discuss personal values and beliefs: Engage children in conversations about their values and beliefs. Understanding what matters most to them offers a strong identity and helps guide their decisions and actions.

8. Empathy

Developing empathy in children boosts understanding and compassion towards others, enhancing their ability to connect emotionally and build meaningful relationships. To develop empathy skills in children, consider the following strategies:

• For 3-5 years:
  • Describe and label emotions: Help children identify their emotions and physical reactions.
  • Read stories and discuss feelings: Use storybooks to explore characters’ emotions and discuss how they might feel in similar situations.
  • Coach social skills: Teach children fundamental social interactions like sharing and taking turns.

• For 5-7 years:
  • Use pictures to identify emotions: Show pictures of facial expressions to help children recognise emotions.
  • Embrace diversity: Discuss similarities and differences among peers to boost empathy towards others.
  • Observe others’ body language: Enable children to observe non-verbal cues to understand how others feel.
  • Teach healthy boundaries: Help children understand personal boundaries and respect others’ boundaries.
• For 7-9 years:
  • Engage in discussions about book characters: Discuss the emotions and motives of characters in books to develop empathy.
  • Practice loving-kindness meditation: Introduce meditation exercises focusing on empathy and compassion.
  • Play cooperative board games: Engage in games that require teamwork and cooperation to nurture empathy and understanding.

• For 9-11 years:
  • Sign up for acting classes: Participate in activities like acting that boost perspective-taking and understanding of emotions.
  • Create empathy maps: Choose an emotion and brainstorm thoughts, words, and actions associated with that emotion.

9. Dealing with Emotions

Managing emotions effectively can help children learn to identify, express, and cope with emotions, enhancing their mental well-being and interpersonal relationships.

To help children manage their emotions, consider the following strategies:

• Provide tools for emotion processing: Support children in understanding, expressing, and coping with their emotions from an early age by developing self help skills for toddlers. Be a role model by demonstrating healthy emotional management. Help them identify their emotions, as they may struggle to recognise them initially.
• Assist in managing difficult feelings: Introduce the five-step problem-solving tool to empower children to find solutions independently. Teach them breathing exercises to calm stressful situations and promote activities that distract from negative emotions, such as art or physical activities.

• Facilitate open communication: Create a safe space where children can openly express their feelings without fear of judgment. Listen attentively and acknowledge their emotions, especially after a tantrum or outburst. Discuss the triggers and emotions involved, showing understanding while setting appropriate boundaries for behaviour.
• Guide future emotional responses: Discuss strategies for handling emotions in the future. Provide constructive ways to express feelings, emphasising that feeling emotions is acceptable but not acting out destructively. For example, suggest saying, “It’s okay to feel disappointed and upset, but it’s not okay to throw things”.

10. Dealing with Stress

Understanding how to manage stress effectively equips children with valuable life skills for children that boost resilience and well-being. Children can navigate challenges with confidence and composure by learning to reframe stress, adopt a growth mindset, and utilise stress-management techniques.

To help children deal with stress, consider the following strategies:

• Reframe stress: Cultivate a mindset shift from “stress hurts” to “stress helps”, viewing stressful situations as opportunities for growth and learning. Discuss with your child how stress can be beneficial in handling similar situations in the future.
• Promote a growth mindset: Motivate your child to adopt a growth mindset, where they believe their abilities can improve through effort and perseverance. Practice growth mindset affirmations and celebrate incremental progress to build resilience in the face of stress.

• Address catastrophic thinking: Validate your child’s feelings of stress and help them evaluate the likelihood of worst-case scenarios. Encourage them to brainstorm solutions and consider alternative outcomes, reducing the sense of overwhelming fear associated with stress.
• Utilise stress-management techniques: Teach your child practical techniques to manage stress effectively:
  • Deep breathing: Instruct your child to take deep breaths, hold briefly, and exhale slowly to calm their mind.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: Guide them through tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to release physical tension.
  • Mindfulness or meditation: Practice simple meditation techniques, such as having your child focus on their breath or use guided imagery to relax.
  • Physical activity: Engage in activities like playing, exercising, or nature to relieve stress and promote well-being.

11. Time Management

Understanding how to manage time effectively empowers children to make the most of their day and achieve their goals with less stress and greater efficiency.

To help children develop practical time management skills, consider the following strategies:

• Create a structured daily schedule: Establish a daily schedule with your child that includes designated times for homework, playtime, meals, and bedtime. Sit together to plan each day, allocating specific time slots for different tasks. Use visual aids like charts or calendars to make the schedule clear and accessible for your child.
• Utilise timers for task completion: Timers can help children stay focused and manage their time effectively during tasks. Set timers for specific activities like homework sessions or chores to help them stay on track and complete tasks within allotted timeframes.

• Break tasks into smaller parts: Help children tackle large tasks by breaking them into smaller, more manageable parts. Guide them to focus on one aspect of a task at a time, such as completing one section of homework or organising one part of their room. Celebrate achievements as they complete each part, reinforcing a sense of progress and accomplishment.
• Set smart goals: Teach children to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to guide their time management efforts. Assist them in setting short-term goals for daily or weekly tasks and long-term goals for academic achievements or personal projects. Review and adjust goals periodically to reflect progress and changing priorities.

12. Financial Management

Developing financial management skills from a young age equips children with crucial abilities to handle money responsibly and prepare for future financial decisions.

To help children cultivate this skill, consider the following strategies:

• Open a bank account: Help your child open a bank account and introduce them to the basics of banking. Teach them how to make deposits, monitor their balance, and understand the concept of interest. This practical experience enables a foundational understanding of financial transactions.
• Use everyday situations for learning: Incorporate financial lessons into daily activities. Take your child grocery shopping and discuss budgeting strategies, comparison shopping, and identifying the best deals. Engaging them in these real-life scenarios enhances their financial awareness and decision-making skills.

• Promote entrepreneurial thinking: Support entrepreneurial activities such as babysitting, lawn mowing, car washing, or pet sitting. Guide them in earning money and managing their earnings, teaching them about income, expenses, and profit.

• Prepare for major life events: Start conversations about how finances impact significant life milestones such as higher education, homeownership, and retirement planning. Help them understand financial planning for the future and the long-term benefits of sound money management practices.

13. Cooking

Cooking offers a sensory-rich experience that stimulates creativity and cooperation. It also develops essential math skills through practical applications like measuring ingredients and adjusting recipes.

To deliver this one of the most basic life skills for kids effectively:

• Choose fun and simple recipes: Select colourful and straightforward recipes that engage children’s interest and allow them to practice basic skills like mixing, spreading, peeling, grating, and chopping under supervision.
• Simplify recipes: Ensure recipes are simple enough, focusing on foundational skills development. This approach enables children to learn and master primary cooking techniques step by step.

• Nurture creative expression: Engage children in brainstorming and drawing their snack ideas before bringing them to life in the kitchen. This creative process offers a sense of pride and accomplishment.
• Promote learning through questions: Guide children’s learning by asking questions about various stages of cooking. Encourage them to think about preparation steps, the function of different kitchen tools, and the skills required to complete a recipe.

Nurturing Essential Life Skills for Students with UNIS Hanoi

The Elementary Program (3-11 years) at UNIS Hanoi is dedicated to holistic child development. Beyond academic learning, the program emphasises personal, emotional, and social life skills for kids.

Faculty and staff are dedicated to nurturing each child’s individuality and helping them discover their voice and personal significance. This approach encourages children to envision their role in the world and aspire to contribute meaningfully as responsible members of the school community and global citizens.

Join us at UNIS Hanoi to provide your child with a transformative educational experience. Apply now and empower your child to thrive academically, socially, and personally in a nurturing environment committed to holistic growth!

Reference:

• Drake, J., and Winner, E. How children use drawing to regulate their emotions. Cognition and Emotion, September 2012, 27(3), pp. 512-520.

Sustainability for kids educates them to grow into responsible global citizens capable of making informed decisions with long-term impacts in mind. By instilling these values early on, we nurture a generation mindful of environmental stewardship.

To further this goal, we present a collection of 12 engaging sustainability activities for kids. These activities are tailored to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of sustainable practices and promote a commitment to preserving our planet for future generations.

What is Sustainability for Children?

Sustainability for kids refers to caring for the environment to ensure sufficient resources for future generations. With over 8 billion people on Earth, it involves being mindful of our actions, living carefully, and contributing to environmental preservation.

Teaching children about sustainability facilitates their understanding of the importance of these practices in maintaining a balanced and healthy planet.

Why Should Children Learn About Sustainability?

Children should learn about sustainability to enable them to understand their role in creating a more ecologically and socially just world.

This education focuses on the following key aspects:

• Futures-oriented education: Sustainability education focuses on creating a more ecologically and socially just world through informed action.
• Holistic understanding: It requires consideration of environmental, social, cultural, and economic systems and their interdependence.
• Responsibility and diversity: Children learn to take responsibility for their actions, respect diversity, and see themselves as contributors to a peaceful, sustainable world.
• Global citizenship: It promotes a commitment to addressing global issues such as the environment, development, health, peace, and human rights, shaping children into engaged global citizens.

12 Sustainability Activities to Educate Your Child

How to teach kids about sustainability? Exploring various activities can significantly enhance children’s understanding of sustainability. One effective method to support learning is through hands-on and engaging practices.

1. Plant a Garden

Gardening provides children with an excellent opportunity to learn about sustainability for kids. It fosters an appreciation for the environment and an understanding of where their food comes from. Moreover, this activity teaches children about responsibility, patience, and problem-solving skills.

Tips for teaching kids how to garden:

• Select appealing plants: Let children help decide which plants to grow. Examples include cherry tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, radishes, peas, carrots, and quick-blooming annual flowers like snapdragons, marigolds, or petunias.
• Equip with appropriate tools: To make the experience enjoyable and manageable, provide children with child-size gardening tools and gloves.

• Develop consistent habits: Teach children to store tools properly, dedicate 15-20 minutes once or twice a week for garden maintenance, and demonstrate tasks like weeding and watering.
• Enjoy the harvest: Involve children in preparing and cooking meals using their grown produce, such as making Margherita pizza with homegrown tomatoes and basil.
• Visit farms or markets: Enhance their understanding of food origins by visiting farms or farmers’ markets, deepening their appreciation for the earth and those who work to produce our food.

2. Read Books

Reading books helps kids learn about sustainability for kids by fostering empathy, understanding the environment, and promoting responsible actions. Here are some recommended books:

• All the Water in the World by George Ella Lyon: Explores the interconnectedness of water sources and the importance of preserving them.
• Count Them While You Can – A Book of Endangered Animals by Anne Bowman: This book educates about endangered species through counting verses and factual information.

• The Curious Garden by Peter Brown: Tells the story of a boy who transforms a grey cityscape into a vibrant garden, promoting urban greening and community engagement.
• Dear Children of the Earth by Schim Schimmel: A heartfelt letter from Mother Earth urging children to care for the planet and appreciate its beauty.

3. Recycle

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), only a fraction of municipal waste is recycled among its member countries, highlighting the need for improved recycling efforts worldwide. Therefore, young people should learn about waste management and recycling education from an early age.

Here are engaging recycling games for children:

• Draw recycling containers: Help children distinguish between bins (paper, glass, plastic) by drawing and labelling them on paper.
• Create toys from waste: Encourage reuse by crafting toys from materials like socks or shoe boxes, fostering creativity and understanding of material properties.
• Prizes for recycling: To motivate older children, set goals for collecting recyclables like batteries or bottle caps and reward achievements.

• Cartoons promoting recycling: Explore animated series on platforms like YouTube, such as Pispas or Everything’s Rosie, which educate children about the importance of recycling.
• Stories about recycling: Read books such as “Michael Recycle” by Ellie Bethel and Alexandra Colombo or “Why Should I Recycle?” by Jen Green, which entertain and educate children about recycling principles.

4. Clean Up

Teaching children the importance of tidiness through engaging in games can instil lifelong habits of cleanliness and responsibility. Here is a list of games to teach kids about cleaning up:

• Musical clean-up challenge: Play upbeat music and have children race to tidy up as much as possible before the music stops. When it does, they freeze until the music starts again.
• Race against the clock: Set a timer for a manageable amount of time and challenge children to finish their cleaning task before the timer goes off. Adjust the time based on age and difficulty of the task.

• Guess what’s cleaned: If cleaning with multiple children, have one clean while the others hide and clean up specific items. The cleaner returns and guesses what has been cleaned.
• The cleaning challenge: To encourage thoughtful cleaning, assign specific ways to complete tasks, like sorting toys by colour or arranging books by size.
• Pick-up sticks: Place popsicle sticks in a container, each with a cleaning task or a fun activity. Children pick a stick and complete the task or activity before moving on.

5. Conserve Energy

Conserving energy can reduce our environmental footprint and ensure a sustainable future. Here are practical activities that children can engage in to conserve energy both at home and school:

• Limit electronic usage: Reduce the use of electronic devices to conserve electricity, especially during periods when they are not necessary, such as during playtime or using alternative activities like STEM projects.
• Turn everything off when you aren’t in the room: Encourage children to turn off lights, TVs, computers, and other devices when leaving a room to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

• Use both sides of a piece of paper: By using both sides of each sheet, you can minimise paper usage and reduce the environmental impact of paper production and waste.
• Use a reusable water bottle: Choose reusable water bottles over disposable ones to reduce plastic waste and the energy used in manufacturing single-use plastics.
• Ask your teacher about classroom jobs: Assigning roles like ‘The Electrician’ and ‘IT’ in classrooms empowers students to manage energy by turning off lights and computers when not in use.

6. Conduct DIY Activities

Engaging children in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects fosters creativity and teaches them about sustainability for kids and environmental responsibility. Here are some hands-on activities to inspire and educate:

• Create eco-friendly toothpaste: Make toothpaste using natural ingredients to promote sustainable oral care habits.
• Make seed bombs for guerilla gardening: Teach biodiversity and environmental stewardship by creating seed bombs for guerrilla gardening.

• Craft upcycled bird feeders: Repurpose household items to create bird feeders, promoting wildlife conservation awareness.
• Sustainable cooking challenge: Challenge kids to cook using locally sourced ingredients to reduce carbon footprint and support local farmers.

7. Participate in Outdoor Activities

Engaging in outdoor activities offers children opportunities for physical exercise and exploration of the natural world. It promotes holistic development and fosters a deeper connection with the environment. The following outdoor ideas will suggest how you can organise this kind of activity for children:

• Bamboo shapes: Use bamboo canes to create geometric shapes like triangles, squares, rectangles, and circles outdoors. Encourage children to explore these shapes using natural items found in their environment.
• Natural phoneme frames: Children can construct phoneme frames using bamboo sticks filled with sand, practising forming and blending CVC words while engaging in fine motor skills and collaborative play.

• Rainy day challenge: Collect rainwater using various containers and measure the amounts collected to introduce concepts of volume and measurement in a practical outdoor setting.
• Water bottle bowling: Set up a bowling game using partially filled water bottles numbered 1 to 10, encouraging children to roll a ball and score points while practising counting and coordination skills.

8. Organise Environmental Storytelling Games

Environmental storytelling games offer immersive experiences, transporting participants into intricate narratives and atmospheric settings.

• A Hollow Egg Hatches Eyes
  • Production design: Craft over 30 puppets and statues representing forest spirits, illuminated by glowsticks and LED lights to evoke a magical ambience.
  • Game mechanics: Use disease as a central conflict. Players periodically draw symptoms from a metal water bottle, reflecting the game’s antagonistic force.
  • Flow structure: Divide the gameplay into 4-hour segments focused on spatial exploration. Players undertake missions led by spirit doctors, such as guiding the Box Spirit up a hill amidst challenges and distractions.
  • Narrative resolution: Conclude with multiple exciting endings across varied locations, enhanced by natural elements like rain to elevate the emotional impact.

• Out of the Frost
  • Premise and setup: This scenario simulates a rescue mission at an abandoned research base during a snowstorm. Participants face escalating danger from Hazard Ghosts, which induces madness and paranoia.
  • Production minimalism: Emphasise character-driven horror with minimal props, highlighting the atmospheric impact of over-elaborate set designs.
  • Game dynamics: Players contend with escalating supernatural threats, with deaths resulting in ghostly roles aiding survivors covertly.
  • Flow management: Simplify gameplay progression with pivotal events marking narrative shifts, such as the deaths of key characters leading to a climactic rescue.
  • Atmospheric intensity: Dynamic lighting and environmental cues create an immersive horror experience, heightening tension amid the encroaching blizzard.

9. Shop Locally

Shopping locally contributes positively to the environment by reducing carbon footprints associated with transportation and supporting regional economies. The local shopping trip with your kids will be enjoyable with the following tips:

• Start with local specialties: Select one locally produced item that aligns with your region’s specialties. Committing to purchasing local apples throughout the year allows children to understand seasonal availability and local agricultural practices.
• Explore beyond farmers’ markets: Make shopping an educational experience by visiting farms where local produce is grown or sourced. Engaging directly with producers teaches children about the origins of food and fosters appreciation for local agriculture.

• Engage in food-gathering activities: Involve children in activities such as foraging for wild foods or visiting farms where they can pick their produce, encouraging them to try new foods and appreciate the effort involved in food production.
• Adapt cooking to available ingredients: Emphasise cooking with seasonal and locally available ingredients. Adjust meal planning based on what’s fresh and accessible rather than following fixed recipes.
• Eat seasonally: Encourage seasonal eating to align with natural food cycles and teach children about the availability and diversity of local produce throughout the year.

10. Explore Nature Virtually

Exploring nature virtually provides children with enriching experiences that simulate real-world interactions and foster appreciation for the natural world. Expand your child’s imagination about the natural world without limit with these virtual approaches:

• Engage in nature photography: Encourage children to explore their surroundings through photography. Using digital cameras or smartphones, they can capture images of flora, fauna, and landscapes.
• Participate in online nature experiences: Explore virtual tours and programs offered by wildlife sanctuaries, zoos, and aquariums. Attend live-streamed animal shows or enrol in virtual classes focusing on wildlife education.

• Watch nature videos and documentaries: Access nature documentaries and educational videos that showcase wildlife habitats and behaviours. Platforms like National Geographic and PBS offer a variety of content suitable for children.
• Experience virtual reality nature tours: Use VR technology to immerse children in simulated natural environments. Virtual reality headsets provide a unique perspective, allowing them to interact with and observe wildlife virtually.

11. Ride Bikes

Cycling offers numerous benefits for children, including improving coordination, building strength, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Teaching a child to ride a bike involves several key steps to ensure they learn safely and confidently.

• Demonstrate how a bike works: Explain the mechanics of a bike by showing each part. Spin the wheels to illustrate movement, pedal with hands to demonstrate propulsion, and engage the brakes to show stopping power.
• Transition from balance bike to pedal bike: Begin with a balance bike to develop coordination and balance. Gradually introduce a pedal bike with training wheels, then remove them once confidence is gained.

• Focus on braking skills: Teach braking techniques early on. Practice braking in controlled settings to ensure your child can confidently stop, especially on slopes or in emergencies.
• Progress to independent starts: Guide your child in starting the bike independently. Teach them to place one foot on a pedal, push off with the other foot, and maintain momentum by pedalling.
• Build confidence through encouragement: Keep the learning process positive and enjoyable. Offer praise and motivation, and incorporate fun activities like races to enhance engagement and confidence.

12. Save Water

With our water resources threatened by pollution, climate change, and increasing demand, teaching children to conserve water is crucial. By instilling these habits early, children can develop a deep appreciation for water conservation, contributing to a sustainable future.

• Skip the rinse in the dishwasher: Encourage children to place dishes directly into the dishwasher without rinsing them first, saving water used for unnecessary pre-rinsing.
• Use a labelled water bottle: Have children create and use a labelled water bottle in the refrigerator to avoid running the tap to get cold water each time they are thirsty.

• Turn off faucets tightly: Teach children to ensure faucets are fully turned off after use to prevent water waste.
• Use a bucket for washing bikes or scooters: Instead of letting the hose run continuously, instruct children to fill a bucket and use a sponge for washing bikes or scooters.
• Water household plants with leftover water: Encourage children to pour leftover water from glasses into household plants rather than letting it go down the drain.

Raise Sustainability with UNIS Hanoi

The Service Learning Programme at UNIS Hanoi forms a cornerstone of our educational mission, integrating deeply into curricular and co-curricular activities from Elementary through High School. This initiative fosters a sense of community responsibility and sustainability for kids by engaging them in impactful projects that address local and global challenges.

At UNIS Hanoi, environmental awareness is nurtured through structured activities aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Elementary School, students participate in events like the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation Walk-a-thon, integrating service into their learning through units of inquiry.

Secondary School students delve deeper, aligning service projects with specific SDGs such as Life on Land (SDG 15) and Health and Well-being (SDG 8). Through experiential learning and action, such as visits to Cuc Phuong National Park and advocacy for ethnic minority communities, students actively contribute to environmental conservation and social justice, embodying our commitment to global citizenship and service.

Apply now and join a school where education goes beyond the classroom to create a positive impact locally and globally!

In the educational context, understanding how to deal with child misbehaving in school helps parents and educators maintain a productive learning environment. Addressing misbehaviour promptly fosters a conducive learning atmosphere and ensures the well-being and development of all students involved.

Misbehaviour can significantly disrupt the educational process, impacting not only the misbehaving child but also their peers and teachers. By effectively managing these situations, schools can mitigate the adverse effects on academic progress and create a supportive classroom setting where all students can thrive and learn effectively.

Why Do Children Misbehave?

A lack of confidence, encouragement, or involvement can contribute to the misbehaviour of children. Here are 6 key reasons why children may misbehave before we learn how to deal with child misbehaving in school:

• Children misbehave when they don’t feel well: A child’s physical well-being significantly impacts their behaviour. Lack of sleep, poor diet, insufficient exercise, and inadequate fresh air can lead to irritability and crankiness. A child who is tired, hungry, or unwell is more likely to act out due to discomfort and frustration.
• They lack knowledge and experience: Children are not miniature adults; they are still learning and growing. Mistakes in behaviour, much like mistakes in learning, are part of their development. Many actions deemed misbehaviour are errors due to a lack of knowledge or experience.
• Children misbehave when they feel upset: Emotional security plays a crucial role in a child’s behaviour. Significant changes, such as the arrival of a new sibling, illness in the family, or moving to a new home, can cause feelings of insecurity and lead to misbehaviour.

• Children misbehave when they feel discouraged: Encouragement and positive reinforcement are vital for good behaviour. Children not receiving approval and recognition for their efforts may resort to misbehaviour to gain attention.
• They lack confidence: Confidence is integral to a child’s willingness to engage with their surroundings. A child who lacks self-confidence may act out to mask their insecurities.
• When they feel unloved: Love and affection are fundamental to effective discipline. Children who feel loved are likelier to want to please their parents and adhere to acceptable behaviour standards.

Tips to Deal With Child Misbehaving In School

Understanding how to deal with child misbehaving in school involves more than just addressing the behaviour; it requires a comprehensive approach that includes communication, emotional support, and consistent consequences.

1. Solve Problems with Your Child

To address how to deal with child misbehaving in school, it is essential to engage directly with the child to understand their perspective and work collaboratively towards solutions.

• Talk to your child regularly: Establish consistent communication with your child’s teacher to identify the root causes of misbehaviour. This helps identify the root causes of behaviour and find ways to address it effectively. Regular check-ins, attending parent-teacher conferences, and requesting daily behaviour updates allow you to monitor progress and adjust strategies as needed. When children see that their positive behaviour is acknowledged and their negative behaviour is addressed constructively, they are more likely to strive for improvement.
• Remain calm and don’t punish your child: When notified of your child’s misbehaviour, stay calm and gather all relevant details. Reacting with anger can exacerbate the situation and inhibit constructive dialogue. Instead, gather information about the incident from the teacher and then calmly discuss it with your child.
• Ask about what’s going on in your child’s life: Inquire regularly about your child’s schoolwork and social interactions. This can help identify if academic struggles or peer issues contribute to misbehaviour. Understanding their day-to-day experiences allows you to provide the necessary support, whether it involves helping with schoolwork or addressing social challenges.

• Let your child express their feelings: Create an environment where your child feels safe to express their emotions. Children may hesitate to share their worries, fearing it might upset their parents. Encourage open conversations during relaxed times, such as family meals or casual walks. Let them know their feelings are important and that you are there to support them.
• Stay close to them: Maintain a supportive relationship with your child. Engage in daily conversations about their school experiences and feelings. Listen attentively to identify patterns or triggers that may be causing the misbehaviour. Validate their emotions and assure them of your support.
• Give consequences: Implement consistent and logical consequences for misbehaviour. These consequences should be directly related to the misdeed and aimed at teaching better choices rather than merely punishing. For instance, if your child disrupts the class, a suitable consequence could be moving to a different seat or losing a privilege like recess.

• Give them choices: Offer your child choices to involve them in improving their behaviour. This approach empowers them and makes them more invested in the outcome. Collaborate with your child to decide on appropriate disciplinary measures for misbehaviour and rewards for positive behaviour.
• Provide reassurance: Regardless of the severity of your child’s misbehaviour, reassure them of your unconditional love and support. Let them know you are committed to helping them overcome their challenges and will work together as a team.
• Give your child a break and avoid pressure: While encouraging open communication, avoid pressuring your child to talk if they are not ready. Ensure that your home provides a supportive atmosphere where your child feels comfortable approaching you when they are ready to discuss their issues.

By implementing these strategies, parents and educators can create a supportive environment that addresses the underlying causes of misbehaviour and promotes positive behavioural changes.

2. Collaborate With Teachers

Collaborating with teachers is an essential strategy for addressing how to deal with child misbehaving in school because managing a disruptive student alone can be challenging for a single teacher. By working together, teachers can share insights, practical strategies, and resources to support the students.

Open lines of communication between teachers, parents, and students are crucial for this process. Understanding and empathy are essential, as the root cause of the behaviour might be emotional, social, or cognitive.

At UNIS Hanoi, the Student Success Teams and Student Intervention Teams provide counselling and student support. These teams include principals, deputy principals, counsellors, learning support teachers, speech and language Therapists (elementary school), Psychologists, and school nurses. They use a comprehensive approach to assess and support students based on teacher observations, educational data, assessments, and health professionals’ evaluations.

Moreover, the Student Intervention Team (SIT), a multidisciplinary group within the Student Success Team, focuses on identifying and addressing individual students’ academic, social, emotional, and speech and language needs, ensuring a coordinated support system for student success. Parents are encouraged to collaborate with these teams to ensure their child receives support.

3. Reinforce Positive Behaviour

Addressing how to deal with child misbehaving in school involves more than just correcting negative actions; it also includes reinforcing positive behaviour. By acknowledging and rewarding good behaviour, parents and teachers can help children understand what is expected of them and enhance their self-esteem.

Praise your child when they follow directions or act helpfully, and consider providing rewards such as extra playtime or engaging activities. This reinforcement strategy promotes desirable behaviours and creates a supportive and encouraging environment for the child’s development.

4. Reward Desirable Behaviour

To encourage and sustain desirable behaviour, establish positive consequences that reinforce the behaviour you wish to see. Praise your child when you receive favourable teacher reports, and celebrate these successes to motivate them further. Setting daily or weekly goals and rewarding your child upon achieving them can provide additional incentive.

For instance, if your child goes three consecutive days without disciplinary issues at school, celebrate by cooking their favourite meal. Moreover, rewards do not need to be costly; linking positive behaviour to privileges like video game time or a trip to the park can be highly effective in maintaining their motivation.

Build Behaviour and Life Skills for Your Child at UNIS Hanoi!

Explore our comprehensive curriculum designed to foster assertive behaviour and life skills in every student.

At UNIS Hanoi, we prioritise nurturing a supportive environment where children learn how to deal with child misbehaving in school through active engagement, problem-solving strategies, and positive relationship building. Our admissions team is ready to assist you in joining our community, which is dedicated to academic excellence and personal growth.

Begin your journey with UNIS Hanoi today! The online application for the 2024-2025 academic year is now open!

Today, many children face difficulties maintaining concentration due to various factors such as distractions, lack of interest, or underlying issues. Concentration can significantly influence a child’s learning experience, and understanding the reasons behind their struggles is the first step toward improvement.

This article explores these challenges and provides 14 practical tips on how to help your child focus in school. By implementing these strategies, parents can create a supportive environment that fosters improved concentration, helping their children to achieve their full potential in the educational setting.

14 Tips to Help Your Child Focus in School

Struggling to understand “how to help my child focus in school”? You’re not alone. Many parents face this challenge, but you can make a significant difference with the right strategies. Here are 14 practical tips to improve your child’s concentration and academic performance.

1. Set a Working Schedule

Establishing a consistent working schedule is an excellent way to help children focus. Young children, particularly those aged 4-5, can generally concentrate for only 5 to 20 minutes at a time, depending on the nature of the task. New or challenging tasks may reduce their attention span, whereas enjoyable activities might extend.

Moreover, it helps children understand and adapt to the routine, enhancing their ability to concentrate on schoolwork. The purpose is to ensure their schedule includes time for challenging and enjoyable activities to balance their focus effectively.

2. Focus on One Task at A Time

While multitasking is often praised in adult contexts, research indicates it significantly reduces concentration and diminishes overall performance. Emphasising the importance of mindfulness, children should be encouraged to focus on one task at a time.

For instance, younger children can sing the alphabet while looking at the letters, whereas older children can tackle one long division problem at a time without worrying about subsequent tasks. This approach not only improves concentration but also enhances the quality of their work.

3. Establish a Homework Area

Creating a specific homework area free from distractions will boost concentration. Multitasking, such as having the TV on or the phone nearby, impairs focus. A quiet, dedicated workspace with the necessary tools and resources can help children concentrate better.

For younger children, parental monitoring programs can control internet usage, instead, older children can benefit from self-monitoring software, fostering independence and better time management skills.

4. Incorporate Scheduled Breaks Into Study Sessions

Incorporating regular breaks into study sessions can help maintain high concentration levels. Continuous studying can lead to mental fatigue, making it harder for children to stay focused.

Short breaks allow them to rest and recharge. A snack or play break can benefit younger children, while older children prefer a brief social interaction or leisure activity. These breaks help sustain attention and improve overall productivity.

5. Teach Relaxation Techniques

Teaching children relaxation techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, helps slow the heart rate and clear the mind, reducing the anxiety that often accompanies challenging tasks.

Relaxation methods foster a calmer, more focused mindset by making tasks feel more approachable and less overwhelming. Helping your child focus in school is encouraging them to tackle difficult activities with greater confidence and concentration.

6. Divide Large Tasks Into Achievable Steps

Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps makes them less overwhelming and more approachable for children. For example, when learning to tie shoes, focus first on mastering the initial knot, then gradually move on to creating loops.

Similarly, setting a timer for short intervals can help children organise their work, such as writing down facts about a subject within a specified time. This strategy builds concentration by making tasks more structured and achievable.

7. Encourage mindfulness

Encouraging mindfulness can help children manage distractions and improve concentration. Activities that promote mindfulness, such as playing observation games like “I spy,” listening attentively to song lyrics, or practising yoga, can enhance their ability to stay present and focused.

These exercises help children clear away internal distractions, such as physical sensations or entertaining memories, improving their overall concentration and cognitive abilities.

8. Sleep Enough and Eat Healthy

Adequate sleep and a healthy diet are fundamental for maintaining a child’s focus in school. A consistent bedtime routine ensures children get the recommended nine hours of sleep, which is crucial for their cognitive function and overall well-being.

A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for brain health, enhancing the ability to concentrate and perform academically. Ensuring children are well-rested and properly nourished is essential for optimal focus and behaviour in school.

9. Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity is linked to improved academic performance and concentration. Exercise reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD. It also boosts immune health, leading to fewer illnesses and better school attendance.

Encouraging children to walk, cycle, or participate in family sports and assigning physical chores promotes regular exercise. These activities enhance physical health and improve cognitive function and concentration in school.

10. Teach Organisational Skills

Simple strategies, such as labelling bins for toys and using colour-coded drawers, can help children organise their belongings.

Ensuring they have everything ready for the next day before bedtime reduces morning stress and promotes a sense of preparedness. Establishing and sticking to these systems can significantly enhance a child’s ability to stay organised and concentrate on tasks.

11. Offer Emotional Support

How to help your child focus in school involves providing them with emotional support. Acknowledging their feelings and using positive reinforcement can make tasks seem less overwhelming. Praising their efforts and achievements encourages them to stay on task.

Managing your stress and maintaining a calm demeanour sets a positive example. Ensuring your child feels understood and supported creates a conducive environment for concentration and learning, reducing anxiety and enhancing their ability to focus.

12. Let Them Try Coding

Introducing coding to children offers a multifaceted approach to how to help your child focus in school. The complex nature of designing, writing, and debugging programs engages sustained attention, logical thinking, and working memory.

As children become accustomed to focusing on coding tasks, they learn to concentrate on one activity at a time, reducing the tendency to multitask. They can transfer these concentration skills to other academic and non-academic tasks as they become proficient in coding.

13. Stimulate Cognitive Development Games

Engaging children in activities that stimulate cognitive development can enhance their focus and learning capacity. Cognitive skills encompass sustained attention, auditory processing, and logical reasoning. Games and activities such as crossword puzzles, chess, and memory card games can help develop these skills.

By consistently practising these activities, children improve their ability to process, analyse, and understand new information, reducing frustration with new subjects and encouraging sustained concentration.

14. Take Part in Problem-Solving Activities

An effective approach for how to help your child focus in school involves incorporating problem-solving activities to enhance their concentration and cognitive abilities. Jenga and card games foster critical thinking and analytical abilities. These activities teach children to identify problems, analyse situations, and develop effective solutions.

By regularly practising these skills, children become more adept at identifying problems, finding solutions, and maintaining focus and perseverance.

At UNIS Hanoi, we comprehend how to help your child focus in school and apply the abovementioned techniques to our education approach. UNIS Hanoi School’s educational philosophy and practices align closely with the effective strategies for child development and academic success outlined by the UNIS Hanoi framework.

Implementing the Primary Years Programme (PYP), which targets students aged 3 to 12, underscores UNIS Hanoi’s commitment to a whole child approach to education, nurturing each student as an active inquirer within and beyond.

Key value propositions of UNIS Hanoi include:

• Structured Schedules and Routines: UNIS Hanoi’s PYP framework ensures a balanced and organised approach to learning, encouraging students to follow structured schedules that promote consistent focus and academic discipline.
• Holistic Development: The PYP curriculum emphasises the development of knowledge, skills, conceptual understanding, attitudes, and actions. This comprehensive approach ensures that students grow intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: UNIS Hanoi’s focus on process-led, inquiry-based learning units encourages students to engage actively with the world around them, fostering curiosity and independent thinking.
• Personalised Learning: Recognising that education is a process rather than a race, UNIS Hanoi tailors the learning journey to each child’s unique pace and interests, an approach deeply rooted in child led learning. This personalised approach helps students progress effectively and develop a love for lifelong learning.
• Professional Educators: The school is staffed with highly professional teachers who model effective habits of mind and are dedicated to continuous learning. These teachers provide students with exemplary role models.

• Parental Partnership: UNIS Hanoi values strong partnerships with parents, involving them in the educational process through regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and workshops. This collaborative approach ensures that each child’s needs are met comprehensively.
• Regular Breaks and Physical Activity: The school’s co-curricular activities, including sports and arts programmes, integrate regular physical exercise and creative outlets, aligning with incorporating scheduled breaks to maintain cognitive function.
• Early Childhood Focus: UNIS Hanoi acknowledges the critical importance of the formative years, particularly from birth to age 6. The school invests in rich learning environments and experiences that harness young children’s natural curiosity and capacity for new experiences.
• Leadership and Social Skills: Through student councils and varied co-curricular programmes, UNIS Hanoi nurtures leadership skills and social development, preparing students to be engaged members of the school community and the wider world.

These value propositions demonstrate UNIS Hanoi School’s alignment with proven child development strategies, ensuring that students are well-equipped to focus, succeed academically, and develop into well-rounded individuals.

Enrol Your Child at UNIS Hanoi Today!

Understanding how to help your child focus in school is essential for their academic journey. UNIS Hanoi, a prestigious international school, fosters students’ success through a rigorous curriculum and a holistic educational approach. Our graduates gain acceptance to top universities worldwide, including Ivy League schools and leading institutions in the UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

For a transformative educational experience that enhances your child’s focus and academic potential, apply to UNIS Hanoi today to secure your child’s bright future!

Supporting a child with social anxiety at school begins with a deep understanding of their fear of social settings, known as social anxiety disorder or social phobia.

Children with social anxiety often avoid situations where they might be closely observed, such as in a school environment. They may experience behavioural symptoms like reluctance to talk to others, avoiding events, speaking softly, and avoiding eye contact, which makes it hard for them to make friends.

On an emotional level, they frequently worry about feeling helpless and embarrassed. Physically, they might have symptoms like sweating, dizziness, trembling, nausea, and a rapid heart rate, which can sometimes lead to panic attacks.

After identifying the symptoms, parents and schools should learn how to help a child with social anxiety at school. Otherwise, this disorder may impact the child’s ability to thrive in their academic environment and then social situations.

How to Help Children Deal with Social Anxiety at School

Parents, living with their children and interacting with them most during their formative years, are well-positioned to notice symptoms of social anxiety. Hence, they have a strong influence on their behaviours.

Simultaneously, teachers are responsible for creating a supportive environment that fosters academic and emotional growth and helps students build confidence.

At UNIS Hanoi, the faculty and staff prioritise the holistic development of every student. The Elementary School (ES) fosters a nurturing environment where students can discover their unique significance.

Additionally, teachers at ES support children in becoming active contributors to the school community, which serves as the background for further development in the broader world.

UNIS Hanoi dedicates efforts to equipping students with essential life skills, and handling social anxiety is among them. Here are some tried-and-true methods recommended by UNIS Hanoi.

The following sections will outline strategies that parents and teachers can apply to help children deal with social anxiety at school.

1. Connect with Your Child

Connecting with your child using the PACE method helps them cope with social anxiety effectively by offering a supportive mainstay that addresses the emotional needs of children. Here is how it works:

• P (Playfulness): Playfulness involves creating a comfortable atmosphere where your children feel relaxed and safe. It doesn’t mean parents need to be funny; rather, it’s about speaking to them in a light tone and with a smile.
• A (Acceptance): Children have their own thoughts and feelings, which parents should accept without judgment. Parents can help their children develop a greater sense of confidence by respecting their individuality.
• C (Curiosity): Parents should remain curious and keep asking what is behind their children’s behaviours. This will help them better understand their children and reduce their social anxiety.
• E (Empathy): Empathy allows parents to connect with their children’s emotions. Then, they can provide comfort and foster a sense of security in their children.

The PACE method addresses the whole child, focusing beyond behaviours. It enables adults to discover their children’s strengths while providing children with a sense of security.

PACE also helps strengthen family bonds by focusing on interactions among members. Once the children feel confident in front of their parents, they will be better at expressing themselves in other environments.

2. Talk about Stress

When the school year begins, children often experience stress because they must adapt to a new environment and make new friends. In this situation, parents can start talking about their concerns to help them reduce stress. This tangible support is what they need to stay emotionally resilient.

Parents can start with open-ended questions during relaxed moments, such as at dinner or after school. They can ask about their children’s new friends and their thoughts on teachers.

Afterwards, parents can proceed to more sensitive topics, such as their children’s challenges. This routine helps school-aged children express their feelings while reassuring them that their parents are always there to listen and support them.

3. Show Them What to Expect

Children feel anxious when they are afraid of what may happen to them. As parents, you can ease their anxiety by showing them what to expect.

For instance, if students are anxious about the upcoming school year, explaining the daily routine, which may resemble that of the previous year, can be helpful. Additionally, informing them that they might encounter familiar peers in their new class can reduce their anxiety.

By making the new experience predictable, you can alleviate their fear. Parents can also encourage their children to express their feelings and ask questions about the upcoming changes to ease their anxiety.

4. Teach Relaxation Strategies

Relaxation strategies like deep breathing and relaxing muscles can help children calm down. Another method is to redirect their thoughts away from their anxiety. These practices enable them to cope with their anxiety independently when you are not around.

For example, encourage children to think about their favourite hobby or count to 100 whenever they feel anxious. This will reduce the intensity of negative feelings as their minds have to handle other tasks.

Aside from treating anxiety, effective relaxation strategies can help children improve their control over emotions, leading to enhanced mental health and well-being.

5. Teach Cognitive Reframing

Children with social anxiety feel insecure in themselves and may give up trying. Hence, children should start by changing their mindset to deal with their fears.

Parents can help by teaching their children about cognitive reframing. The lesson focuses on reducing negative thoughts and highlighting their strengths. By fostering this cognitive flexibility, children can develop an adaptable mechanism when getting stuck in anxiety-provoking situations.

Consistent practice plays a vital role in this journey. Only through repetition can children develop a resilient mindset that enables them to deal with their own fear with ease and confidence.

6. Focus on Progression

Teaching children how to cope with their social anxiety is a long journey. Hence, it would be best to focus on progression, not perfection. Parents can set manageable goals so that their children find it easier to combat their fears.

Additionally, celebrate even small achievements. Although facing anxiety is a significant challenge for children, they can become more self-assured day by day, which is also praiseworthy. Small celebrations help them feel more confident and motivated to keep up the good work.

7. Know When to Step In and When to Step Out

What is the best treatment for social anxiety in children? The exact answer may vary depending on the situation. However, one rule can be applied to any case: Parents should know when to step in and when to step out.

Children seek help from their parents to solve their anxiety-related problems. Since lessons in independence are equally essential, parents should encourage their children to confront challenges independently. Balancing these two approaches simultaneously will foster their confidence.

8. Teach Practice Mindfulness

Teachers teach students to practice mindfulness so they can maintain an awareness of their feelings, thoughts, sensations, and surroundings. Acceptance is the key, as this method requires us to focus on our thoughts without judging them.

Guided meditation is part of mindfulness. Teachers can teach their students to inhale through their noses and exhale through their mouths.

An effective approach is Progressive Muscle Relaxation, in which children tighten and then relax specific muscles to focus on the sensations and changes in their bodies.

The two techniques aim to encourage students to become more aware of their thoughts and emotions. Then, they can respond to social anxiety in a more adaptive way.

Teachers should deliver mindfulness lessons throughout the day. These practice sessions come in handy when some students start showing symptoms of social anxiety disorders.

9. Create a Safe Space

Students struggle with social anxiety when they feel insecure. As a result, teachers should comfort youngsters by offering them a safe place. It can be a cosy corner in the classroom or anywhere where students can take deep breaths and calm down before starting their classes.

By creating such a supportive environment, teachers can easily notice their students’ challenges and provide practical support to help manage their anxiety throughout the school day.

Teachers can also use this opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation with anxious students and offer personalised strategies to help them overcome their emotional problems.

10. Give Students Rewards

While parents celebrate small achievements for their children at home, teachers can try the same method at school. A reward system in class can support students with social anxiety by encouraging them to participate comfortably.

Teachers can choose the best rewards based on their class’s interests and hobbies. Incentives like homework passes, early dismissal, or more rest time may all work.

The more challenging the tasks, the more appealing the rewards. For example, students have to make a presentation in the team to earn valuable prizes. This approach fosters teamwork and motivates children to overcome their anxieties to achieve what they desire.

11. Apply Zero-Tolerance Rules

Zero-tolerance rules are widely implemented in schools to set ground rules for schoolers. Those who violate the rules will face strict disciplinary measures.

This method is beneficial for helping children with social anxiety because they believe that strict rules lead to a safe environment. Many students are scared when going to school because of discrimination and harassment. However, if the zero-tolerance rules are implemented, they can focus on learning and social interaction without worrying about becoming a victim.

12. Assign a Partner

If students feel isolated in their class, encourage them to choose a partner. Pairing a socially anxious student with a confident one can be very beneficial. This way, the shy child can seek guidance and reassurance from their partner, helping develop a sense of inclusion and support.

Moreover, the partner system makes social interactions less scary to shy students. Walking into class with a buddy reduces the feeling of isolation. Once they are confident when interacting with their partners, they will find it simpler to extend their network.

FAQs

Parents and teachers have shared concerns about social anxiety in children, including the effective treatment and the likelihood of children outgrowing this condition. Let’s address those frequently asked questions.

1. What is the best therapy for social anxiety in young learners?

The best therapy for social anxiety in children and teenagers is Cognitive Behavioural Treatment (CBT), helping young learners develop essential skills for managing social situations and addressing both cognitive and behavioural aspects of anxiety.

CBT is a psychological treatment for depression and anxiety disorders, focusing on these strategies:

• Identifying and fixing distortions in thinking that contribute to problems.
• Improving understanding of others’ behaviours and motivations.
• Applying problem-solving skills to handle difficult situations.
• Building confidence.

CBT sessions can be conducted one-on-one or in groups. CBT therapists guide socially anxious children through structured sessions to identify and modify their thoughts and behaviours, ensuring gradual improvement.

2. At what age does social anxiety start?

Social anxiety disorder generally starts in childhood or early adolescence, before the age of 20. Children fear making mistakes or behaving in ways that could lead to embarrassment or negative judgment from others. Many children hide their feelings during this period, making it harder for adults to notice.

Some people struggle with social anxiety in later life, often after a particular event, like being bullied or relocating. These events impact a person’s sense of security and confidence.

In both cases, the trauma can cause social anxiety, which may persist without appropriate intervention.

3. Do children grow out of social anxiety?

It depends. While some children may outgrow social anxiety as they mature, others carry it into adulthood. Children who experience this issue before age 12 are less likely to overcome it on their own.

Social anxiety may lessen over time as children age and develop their coping mechanisms. They may gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become more comfortable in social situations.

On the other hand, many children with social anxiety do not outgrow their problems without treatment, which will affect their relationships and well-being. Some even require ongoing intervention to manage symptoms effectively.

Enroling your child in school is a significant milestone, marking the beginning of their educational journey. This guide aims to give parents a comprehensive and detailed step-by-step guide on how to enrol child in school.

From understanding admission criteria to gathering necessary documents, we’ll navigate how to enrol a child in school. By following these guidelines, parents can ensure a smooth transition into the educational system, setting a solid foundation for their child’s academic success.

How to Enrol Your Child in UNIS Hanoi

How to enrol child in school at UNIS Hanoi includes a few simple steps with a well-structured procedure; hence, parents only need to pay attention to the enrolment instructions below:

Step 1: Application Process

The first step of how to enrol child in school is the application process, which comprises applications, assessments, reviews, and decisions:

• Application:
  • Apply Now at UNIS Hanoi’s website.
  • Parents complete the Application checklist and pay a non-refundable application fee.
• Assessment: These assessments are conducted to gauge the suitability of applicants:
  • Play Experience assessments for Early Years 3, 4, and Kindergarten.
  • Parent interviews for Early Years to Grade 5 applicants.
  • Student interviews for Grade 1 to Grade 5 applicants.
  • Online assessments and English assessments for Grade 1 to Grade 12 applicants.
• Review:
  • Completed applications are meticulously reviewed by a committee comprising Principals, Counselors, and Specialist Teachers.
  • The review is contingent upon space availability within the school.
• Decision and Placement:
  • If your children and UNIS Hanoi are aligned in terms of educational goals and values, they will receive a placement offer. In cases where space is unavailable, applicants are placed in a wait pool based on predetermined priority lanes. If an application is deemed inadmissible, the family is promptly notified, and the application will be closed.

Step 2: Application Documents

How do I enrol my child in school? To enrol your child in UNIS Hanoi school, parents need to prepare the requisite documents outlined below:

• Documentation Submission: Parents need to review and submit the following items:

1. School Record
2. Questionnaires
3. Student Passport
4. Student Photo
5. Parent Photo
6. Payment
7. Standardised Testing (Grades 3-11)
8. Unofficial High School Transcript (Grades 9-11)

• Additional Notes:
  • School documentation is mandatory for all applicants except preschool-aged children who have not attended school.
  • School reports must be presented in English, with translations verified and stamped by the respective school.
  • Confidential school recommendations should be directed to a homeroom teacher or counsellor, as per the contact information provided in the admissions portal.
  • Parents can monitor the progress of their child’s application directly through the admissions portal.

If you have questions or need clarification regarding application procedures, policies, or potential placement about how to enrol child in school, please contact the admissions team at admissions@unishanoi.org.

Step 3: Enrolment and Waiting Process

The final stage of how to enrol child in school involves enrolment and, if necessary, placement in a wait pool:

• Enrolment:
  • Upon approval, successful applicants receive an offer of placement at UNIS Hanoi.
• Wait Pool:
  • When immediate space is unavailable, applicants are placed in a wait pool. To secure enrolment for the following academic year, they must reapply with updated documents and pay the application fee.
  • Applicants placed in the wait pool remain eligible for enrolment throughout the academic year. The Admissions Office prioritises applicants based on predefined criteria within the Admissions Policies.
  • It is important to note that the wait pool only applies to the academic year of application. To be considered for enrolment in subsequent years, applicants must submit updated documentation and adhere to the application process.

How to enrol child in school at UNIS Hanoi is a three-step procedure outlined above. By following these steps and maintaining communication with the admissions team, parents can facilitate a smooth transition for their child into the UNIS Hanoi community.

FAQs

Explore our FAQs for invaluable insights into how to enrol child in school, providing answers to key questions parents often encounter.

1. Where can I find a typical daily schedule, a calendar for school year dates, and a class supply list at UNIS Hanoi?

To access typical daily schedules, calendars for school year dates, and class supply lists at UNIS Hanoi, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Visit the UNIS Hanoi website at https://www.unishanoi.org/about/calendar-news-and-publications.
• Step 2: Download the one-page calendar provided on the right-hand side of the page for an overview of the school year dates.
• Step 3: UNIS Hanoi families should access the Parent Portal for a more detailed school calendar. The Parent Portal provides comprehensive information about typical daily schedules, upcoming events, and other relevant school-related details. Parents can also check the Parent Portal or contact the school administration for class-specific supply lists.

2. When is the typical application timeline for UNIS Hanoi?

Applications for placement are accepted throughout the academic year at UNIS Hanoi. However, placement can only be guaranteed once the full application is submitted, reviewed, and a decision is made.

Placement availability depends on various factors, such as the number of seats available in each grade level, student withdrawals, and capacities of English as an Additional Language and Learning Support programmes. Admissions typically begin to offer placement in March following Priority Lanes.

The Admissions Review Team will review your applications when they are completed. To ensure timely consideration, it is advisable to complete applications by mid-February.

3. What are the steps to pay tuition and fees?

To pay tuition and fees at UNIS Hanoi, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Enrolment Contract: Complete and sign the enrolment contract indicating the chosen payment method.
• Step 2: Debit Note Issuance: The business office will issue a debit note to families detailing payment deadlines.
• Step 3: Responsibility: Payment of tuition and fees is the legal responsibility of the parents.
• Step 4: Third-party Representation: Parents may nominate a third-party representative for correspondence, but parents remain responsible for any non-payment.
• Step 5: Payment Options: Please refer to the tuition and fees schedule for payment options and due dates for the academic year 2024-2025.

4. Are there scholarship opportunities for students at UNIS Hanoi?

Yes, UNIS Hanoi offers scholarship opportunities through the UNIS Hanoi Scholarship Programme. Vietnamese students from low-income families who excel in their local schools can apply for entry into secondary school.

Successful applicants receive a full (100%) tuition and fee waiver until graduation. Details of this programme can be found in the Community section on the school’s website. The Scholarship Programme is part of UNIS Hanoi’s Philanthropy Programmes and is funded through The Scholarship Fund.

5. What do I submit if my child’s preschool does not have school reports?

If your child’s preschool does not provide school reports, request an official letter or development report from the current or past kindergarten/nursery teacher. This document should include details about your child’s learning progress and performance within the programme.

If your child has never attended nursery/pre-kindergarten, inform the admissions office before proceeding with the application process and indicate this in your application.

School refusal occurs when children struggle to attend school due to various factors, such as mental health concerns and family/social problems. A report conducted by MEST in 2017 showed that 134,398 pupils refuse or resist attending school in Japan, and this number has increased over the years. This issue causes multiple problems related to their health and future careers.

When a child refuses to go to school, parents should identify and address the underlying cause promptly. This article will explain practical steps to help your child overcome school refusal and ensure their well-being.

What Are The Potential Problems When a Child Refuses to Go to School?

School refusal is a major concern that should be managed as soon as possible. Research highlights some long-term problems if children keep refusing to go to school as follows:

• Mental health issues: When a child refuses to go to school, and the underlying causes remain unaddressed, the child will suffer from the fear of returning to school. Over time, these negative feelings will be exacerbated.
• Emotional and social issues: Missing school means missing out on social interactions. School is a primary place for children to interact with their peers and build friendships. Hence, if a child doesn’t want to go to school, they will feel a sense of isolation and loneliness.
• Early school dropout: Persistent school refusal increases the chance of a child dropping out of school. Lack of interaction with peers and teachers causes stress, and the only escape for them now is to stop schooling.
• Employment challenge: School refusal will limit a child’s education and future opportunities for stable career prospects.

School refusal negatively affects the child, their family, and their future well-being. Parents can assist by closely observing their children for signs of school refusal.

Once they identify any indications, it is crucial to investigate the underlying causes and implement appropriate interventions. The following section will outline detailed steps to address this issue.

Deal with School Refusal: Step 1 – Identify Signs

The first thing to address school refusal is to determine if your child is avoiding going to school or has any excessive anxiety. Parents may notice these signs:

• Clinginess, dawdling, tantrums, and running away on the way to school: Primary-aged children clearly show signs of school refusal. They cling to their parents or even run away when they arrive at school.
• Complaints of sickness: Children may frequently complain of illnesses such as dizziness, fatigue, headache, or stomach ache as a way to avoid going to school.
• Requests to go home: Children may ask to go home or call their family members during school hours.
• Unexplained absences: Children may be absent without any apparent reason. This issue is common after special occasions, like holidays and school events. Some may ask to stay home on certain days, such as those with tests, because such activities cause them anxiety.
• Frequent lateness: Children are reluctant to attend school on time. If this issue persists, their hesitation will show more noticeable signs of school refusal.

Please note that the symptoms above may stem from other health conditions. It would be best to work with your child and seek professional help to identify the exact underlying cause.

Deal with Child’s School Refusal: Step 2 – Identify Reasons

After identifying school refusal signs, parents should find out the true cause. It can be related to health concerns or social/family issues.

Health Concerns

Health concerns may impact a child’s interest in schools. Here are some potential issues:

• Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD): This anxiety disorder makes a child feel worried when away from their family members or familiar places. The extreme worry comes from their thought of separation.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (social phobia): This type of anxiety disorder is characterised by symptoms of fear in social situations. The child is afraid of judgment from others.
• Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): If a child suffers from GAD, they have excessive anxiety about multiple aspects of life, such as school and relationships.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A child with OCD has obsessive thoughts that cause anxiety or distress. Those thoughts make them engage in repetitive behaviours, known as compulsions.
• Panic Disorder: This issue causes unexpected and frequent panic attacks without a clear trigger.
• Depression: Depression causes a child to be upset or even hopeless. Symptoms like lack of energy and motivation make it difficult for them to attend school regularly.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This health mental condition develops when a child experiences a traumatic event.
• Learning Disorders: A child has difficulty learning specific subjects such as writing, math, or reading. Their performance is below what is expected for their age, grade, and intelligence. The difficulties lead to school avoidance.
• Major Medical Conditions: Serious illnesses that require prolonged treatments may lead to fatigue and pain, causing school refusal.
• Substance Use Disorders (SUD): This mental health condition develops as a result of drug or alcohol consumption. Children with SUD experience difficulties in relationships and academic performance.

Social/Family Issues

Families should be supportive environments for children to develop. Otherwise, they will feel distressed and avoid school. Some possible family or social concerns that a child may suffer include the following:

• Bullying: Being bullied at school creates an unsafe environment for a child. To avoid the bully, they refuse to go to school.
• Family member with severe medical illness: If one of their close family member, like a parent or sibling, is suffering from a serious illness, a child may feel stressed and just want to stay home with their family.
• Parental separation: Family disruptions like separation or divorce make it hard for a child to focus on school.
• Death in the family: The loss of their loved one causes depression, which distracts them from school.
• Relocation: Moving to a new school or area can be overwhelming to a sensitive child. They will avoid school if they struggle to adjust to the new environment.
• Student-Teacher Mismatch: If students don’t feel understood and supported by their teacher, they will become anxious and tend to avoid interactions.

Deal with Child’s School Refusal: Step 3 – Apply Strategies

Once the reason for school refusal is identified, parents should take action to deal with it. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Check for physical/underlying needs: Start by consulting with a doctor to identify their underlying needs. If the issue doesn’t come from mental health, investigate if your child is dealing with bullying or has learning disabilities.
• Talk to your child, avoid lecturing: Deep conversations can help when a child refuses to go to school. Parents will then understand their thoughts and foster trust.
• Let your child join after-school activities: After-school activities provide children with many chances to engage in enjoyable experiences. They will feel a sense of connection to the school community. Those activities can also boost their confidence and develop new skills.
• Take care of yourself: Dealing with a child’s school refusal can be stressful. So, to ensure you can give your child the best treatment, you should take care of your own well-being, remain calm, and seek support from friends or professionals if needed.
• Make your child a plan and stick to it: Consistent treatment is crucial for children who refuse to go to school. A structured schedule helps them develop a habit of preparing for school. Parents can ask them to wake up, have breakfast, and go to school at the same time every day. This approach helps define school attendance as a routine and smooth process for them.
• Support your child with some incentives and intervention ideas: If a child doesn’t want to go to school, support them with incentives and intervention ideas to encourage school attendance. While this approach can have an immediate impact, it should be used wisely. The ultimate goal is to build their self-motivation so they develop a positive attitude towards school.
• Educate your child about some helpful skills: Skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving help children build confidence. With a robust skill set, they feel more comfortable interacting with their peers and teachers, and going to school becomes easier for them.
• Be clear and firm about school: Strict rules maintain consistency. Parents should check if educators define clear criteria for when staying home is acceptable. For example, only students with fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea can be absent. This approach helps them understand the importance of school and reduces the chances of school refusal.
• Work with the school: If your child insists on staying home, you can partner with the school to create a supportive environment that gradually helps your child return to school.
• Seek treatment for underlying health concerns: If your child doesn’t want to go to school because of physical or mental health issues, you need to work with healthcare experts immediately. Develop a regular treatment if they suffer from chronic health conditions.

How Can UNIS Hanoi Help When a Child Refuses to Go to School?

Schools play an important role in helping when a child refuses to go to school. Understanding the importance of this urgent task, UNIS Hanoi focuses on individualised support and strong parent-teacher partnerships.

In the Elementary School, faculty and staff try to develop the whole student, including their academic, social, and emotional aspects. They ensure that each student receives tailored support for their needs.

Meanwhile, the Secondary School curriculum develops each student to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners. At UNIS Hanoi, every student can stand out with their uniqueness and have chances to strive for personal excellence.

With an engaging curriculum and supportive community, UNIS Hanoi is well-equipped to address school refusal issues. Students can feel motivated to attend school regularly.

FAQs

School refusal may stem from various causes, making early intervention necessary to address the underlying reasons and avoid long-term consequences. The following questions and answers will give more insights to help parents manage this issue effectively.

How common is school refusal?

School refusal affects fewer than 1 in 20 children, often between ages 5 and 11. However, more than 25% of students show symptoms in different ways, such as leaving school early, frequently being late for school, and missing classes.

School avoidance is common among students because many of them face academic and peer pressure. Some even struggle with bullying and anxiety. Family issues can also disrupt a child’s sense of stability, making them reluctant to leave home for school.

Due to the high proportion of stressed students, schools and families should address this issue promptly by approaching and understanding the specific reasons behind their issues.

When does school refusal happen?

School refusal can occur at any time but is most common during these periods:

• Transitions back to school, especially after long breaks, make it challenging for students to leave home because they have to disrupt their routines. The COVID-19 pandemic complicated school refusal as some children struggled to return to school after two years of staying home.
• Transitions to a higher education level, like from elementary to middle school, trigger school refusal due to the unfamiliar environment.
• After a shocking life event, such as parental divorce, children may develop anxiety that interferes with their interest in school.
• Conflicts with a teacher or friend can create an uncomfortable school environment, leading to school refusal.

What should parents avoid doing when dealing with a child’s school refusal?

The attitude and behaviours of parents serve as a key part of supporting a child who refuses to go to school. During this sensitive period, children require a lot of parental assistance. So, parents should avoid:

• Ignoring worries about their child’s issue.
• Forcing them to go to school may exacerbate their anxiety.
• Feeling pressured by the school.
• Hesitating to speak to someone if necessary.
• Thinking that your child is fine although you don’t feel it.

By avoiding those mistakes, parents can better help their children overcome their own concerns and develop effective strategies.

It is key to adopt a proactive and supportive approach when addressing the challenge of helping a child struggling academically. Academic difficulties can arise from various factors, such as learning disabilities, lack of motivation, or inadequate support systems. However, significant improvements can be achieved with the proper strategies and interventions.

This article explores key tips of how to help a child struggling academically, providing insights into practical methods and approaches that can positively affect their educational progress.

1. Encourage Children in Daily Conversation

Parents can learn how to help a child struggling academically by fostering strong bonds with their children and supporting their overall well-being through regular conversations about their everyday experiences.

Below are some suggestions to effectively encourage children in daily conversation:

• Spend Time Daily: Dedicate a few minutes each day to talk and listen to your children attentively, showing patience and love.
• Understand Their World: Take the time to comprehend your children’s interests, friends, activities, and music preferences.
• Show Affection: Express love through gestures like hugs, praise, and spending quality time together.
• Discuss Media: Discuss family discussions about books, newspapers, magazines, and TV programs, sharing insights and opinions.
• Visit Educational Places: Explore libraries, museums, zoos, and other educational sites as a family to encourage learning.
• Encourage Vocabulary Expansion: Make learning new words a fun family activity, promoting language development and curiosity.

2. Establish Child’s Study Routine

A well-defined schedule helps children manage their time effectively and develop disciplined study habits. Parents should include study time in their daily routines to foster a conducive learning environment.

Here are how to help a child struggling academically through a study routine:

• Make Study Time a Family Value: Establish daily study time as a family routine, regardless of homework assignments.
• Follow a Daily Routine: Structure the day with designated times for eating, sleeping, playing, working, studying, and reading.
• Provide a Quiet Study Space: Designate a well-lit area at home for studying and reading, free from distractions.
• Engage in Educational Activities: Foster family interests in hobbies, games, and educational activities to promote learning and bonding.

3. Supervise Child’s Study Habits

“My child is really struggling in school; how can I help them?” Tracking their child’s academic progress allows parents to identify challenges and provide necessary support. Prioritising education empowers parents to help their children form a positive outlook on learning and responsibility.

To effectively supervise your child’s learning, parents can implement these strategies:

• Prioritise Schoolwork Over Screen Time: Set reasonable limits on television, computer, and phone usage to ensure ample academic time.
• Emphasise Punctuality: Encourage timely completion of assignments and punctual attendance to school activities.
• Promote Responsibility: Instill good study habits and a positive attitude towards learning, praising effort and diligence.
• Model Proper Language Use: Demonstrate correct language usage and courtesy in communication with your child.
• Stay Informed and Involved: Regularly communicate with teachers, review report cards, and attend parent-teacher conferences to track your child’s progress.

4. Communicate with Teachers

Regular interactions with educators provide insights into your child’s academic performance and behaviour. Working together can assist parents and teachers in addressing issues and enhancing the child’s learning experience.

Here are how to help a child struggling academically via communication with teachers to support their child’s education:

• Attend Conferences: Participate in parent-teacher conferences to discuss your child’s academic performance and progress.
• Review Report Cards: Discuss concerns or questions regarding your child’s report card with the teacher.
• Engage in IEP Meetings: Collaborate with teachers in Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings to address your child’s needs.
• Stay Informed: Keep track of school newsletters, notes, and assignments to stay updated on school activities and requirements.
• Utilise Communication Channels: Use parent bulletin boards and assignment notebooks to stay connected with the school and teachers.

5. Be More Involved

Being actively involved in your child’s school and community activities significantly benefits their academic and social development. Participation in these events fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Here’s how to help a child struggling academically with your involvement:

• Attend School Activities: Participate in events like plays, sports, and award ceremonies to engage with the school community.
• Volunteer at School: Offer your time and skills to tutor, mentor, or assist in various school activities and events.
• Participate in Decision Making: To contribute to school policies and initiatives and join parent organisations, committees, or advisory boards.
• Connect with Other Parents: Build relationships with other parents through school activities, parent education programmes, and community events through the SCO (School Community Organisation).
• Engage with the Community: Participate in community activities and programs with your child, fostering a sense of belonging and civic responsibility.

6. Oversee Children’s Homework

Supervising your child’s homework is a practical way to stay informed about their educational progress. It ensures that they are completing their assignments correctly and understanding the material.

Here’s how to help a child struggling academically by supervising children’s homework effectively:

• Maintain a Positive Attitude: Encourage a positive attitude towards homework and emphasise its importance for academic success.
• Establish a Study Routine: Set aside a consistent time and place for homework, ensuring a conducive environment for concentration.
• Provide Support: Offer guidance and encouragement while allowing your child to work independently, intervening only when necessary.
• Stay Informed: Communicate with teachers to understand homework expectations and address any concerns promptly.
• Reward Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s hard work and achievements to reinforce positive study habits.

7. Ask for School’s Report Card

Reviewing the school’s report card provides valuable insights into its performance and areas needing improvement. This information helps parents understand the educational environment and advocate for necessary changes.

Parents can consider the following areas:

• Students and Instructional Setting: Evaluate class size, teacher qualifications, and instructional support to ensure an optimal learning environment.
• Academic Performance: Analyse overall student performance and subgroup scores to identify areas for improvement and support.
• Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP): Assess the school’s progress towards meeting educational goals set by NCLB and inquire about strategies for improvement.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on school policies, performance indicators, and opportunities for parental involvement to support your child’s education effectively.

How Educators Help a Child Struggling in School

Supporting a child struggling in school requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the student’s emotional and academic needs. Educators must recognise signs of academic distress and proactively implement strategies to support the student’s learning journey.

The following tips provide a structured framework for assisting students in overcoming academic challenges.

• Recognise Behaviours That Affect Student’s Academic Performance: Understand that behaviour reflects underlying issues. Observe signs such as frustration during homework or tests, frequent absences, lack of homework completion, low participation, constant tiredness, and declining grades in one or multiple subjects. These indicators can help identify the root causes of academic struggles.
• Communicate with Students: Engage in individual conversations with the students to understand their perspectives and struggles. Ask questions to uncover why they are having difficulties and how you can support them. Approach these discussions with curiosity rather than judgment. Collaboratively brainstorm actionable steps to address the issues. Follow up regularly to show your ongoing support and belief in their potential.

• Communicate with Parents/Guardians: Establish strong relationships with parents to foster trust and cooperation. Invite parents to meetings to discuss the student’s challenges and jointly develop improvement plans. Solicit their observations and suggestions, such as ensuring a quiet study environment at home or managing distractions. Maintain consistent communication with parents, not just during times of poor performance.
• Provide Extra Help at Learning Programme: Schedule additional practice sessions or one-on-one tutoring for the student. Ensure these sessions are productive by having an adult supervisor present to keep the student-focused. Pair the student with a consistent tutor familiar with their academic needs and progress, and provide extra resources or practice materials in specific subjects as needed.

• Teach and Support Effective Time Management: Help students develop time management skills to balance their academic workload with other activities. Encourage the use of planners to track assignments and create detailed schedules for the semester and weekly tasks.
  Review these schedules regularly to ensure they are followed and make necessary adjustments.
• Monitor Student Performance: Create a shared document to track the student’s progress toward specific academic goals involving the student, parents, and teachers. This document can include metrics such as homework completion, class participation, and attendance at extra help sessions. For older students, encourage them to update this to foster accountability and self-monitoring actively.

Support Your Child’s Academic Performance with UNIS Hanoi

The UNIS Hanoi curriculum, rooted in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme from Early Years to Grade 12, is designed to develop individual talents and connect classroom experiences to real-world contexts.

UNIS Hanoi aims to foster academic and personal growth by emphasising international understanding, responsible citizenship, and a process-oriented approach to learning.

If you are seeking how to help a child struggling academically, our comprehensive and integrated curriculum, combined with dedicated support services, can effectively address and support your child’s unique learning needs.

Contact us to learn how we can assist in enhancing your child’s academic performance.

Building comfort with taking risks is an important part of early childhood development.

Encouraging young children to engage in activities that involve uncertainty and challenge cultivates resilience and enhances their cognitive and emotional development.

In this article, we will figure out what risk-taking is in education, its benefits, and useful tips for supporting children in taking risks safely in education.

What is Risk Taking in Education?

Risk taking in education is defined as students participating in activities with an uncertain outcome, allows children to experiment and explore their surroundings, resembling a scientific investigation to experience personal growth.

Risk-taking in early childhood can manifest in various ways and is shaped by individual beliefs. Parental perceptions of challenging behaviour significantly influence educators’ decisions to offer safe opportunities for outdoor play.

Encouraging students to explore new, diverse, and sometimes uncomfortable ideas is important for developing a critical understanding of the world and forming their own values and beliefs.

Benefits of Engaging in Safe Risk-Taking in Education

Engaging in safe risk taking activities in education offers numerous benefits for children’s development and learning.

These benefits of risk taking in early childhood extend beyond physical skills to encompass cognitive, social, and emotional growth, including:

• Developing resilience: Safe risks build resilience by helping children persevere through challenges and setbacks, fostering adaptability and confidence in facing difficulties.
• Enhancing executive functioning skills: Safe risks stimulate decision-making, problem-solving, and self-regulation, laying a foundation for effective executive functioning in diverse contexts.
• Building self-confidence: Conquering safe risks boosts children’s self-esteem and belief in their abilities, empowering them to tackle new challenges confidently.
• Improving risk-assessment Abilities: Safe risks enable children to assess and manage risks effectively, enhancing safety awareness and equipping them with essential life skills.
• Promoting self-awareness: Safe risks cultivate self-awareness as children learn their limits, strengths, and preferences, empowering them to make choices aligned with their abilities.
• Encouraging creativity and inventiveness: Safe risks inspire curiosity, creativity, and innovative thinking as children explore new possibilities and solutions to challenges.
• Supporting motor skills development: Safe risks promote motor skills development through active, movement-based play, enhancing strength, coordination, and balance.
• Cultivating problem-solving skills: Safe risks foster critical thinking, adaptability, and collaboration, equipping children with essential problem-solving skills for navigating challenges.
• Fostering social skills: Collaborative risk taking experiences cultivate cooperation, communication, and empathy, strengthen social bonds and promote teamwork.
• Enhancing enjoyment and exhilaration: Safe risks create excitement and satisfaction as children push their boundaries, fostering a lifelong love of exploration and discovery.

UNIS Hanoi offers diverse programmes promoting risk taking education while prioritising student well-being and community engagement. These initiatives cater to various age groups and encompass experiential learning, wellness support, and community involvement.

Here are three key programmes offered by UNIS Hanoi:

1. Summer Programme 2024:

• The Summer Programme provides an enriching activity-based experience for children aged 3 to 15, fostering exploration and learning in a fully English-speaking environment.
• Participants engage in diverse activities, from creative arts to sports, facilitated by highly qualified teachers with expertise in their fields.
• Experiential learning opportunities encourage hands-on exploration and skill development, complemented by interactions with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.

2. Wellness Programme:

• UNIS Hanoi prioritises student health and well-being through on-campus services, including the School Health Centre staffed by qualified nurses.
• Measures such as air filtration systems and campus-wide disinfection protocols ensure a safe and healthy environment for learning.
• The caterers offer nutritious meals and promote healthy eating habits, contributing to overall well-being and academic success.

3. Volunteers:

• The School Community Organisation (SCO) facilitates community-building and supports the well-being of students, parents, faculty, and staff.
• Parents automatically become SCO members upon enrolling their children at UNIS Hanoi, contributing to a welcoming and supportive school community.
• The SCO organises events and fundraisers to benefit the school community and promotes volunteerism across various school activities and initiatives.

Tips for Supporting Children in Taking Risks

Encouraging children to take risks is vital for their development, fostering resilience, independence, and problem-solving skills. Here are 11 tips to support children in taking risks effectively:

1. Teach kids that taking a risk is a positive thing: Encourage children to view risk taking in early childhood positively by modelling adventurous behaviour and expressing enthusiasm for their efforts.

• Example: Join your child in trying a new activity like rock climbing, demonstrating excitement and confidence.

2. Enhance the outdoor space with movable equipment for safe challenges: Enhance outdoor spaces with movable equipment for safe challenges, providing opportunities for physical exploration.

• Example: Set up a soft play area with cushions and mats where children can safely climb and jump, ensuring potential hazards are removed.

3. Promote youth club participation and safe spaces: Advocate for safe spaces like youth clubs where children can explore risks under supervision.

• Example: Support initiatives to keep youth clubs open during holidays, providing structured activities and a supportive environment.

4. Facilitate diverse cultural and heritage experiences: Expose children to diverse cultural activities and heritage sites, promoting curiosity and appreciation for different traditions.

• Example: Take children to museums or cultural festivals to learn about history and heritage engagingly.

5. Support artistic expression and creativity: Encourage children to express themselves creatively through various artistic mediums, fostering imagination and self-expression.

• Example: Provide art supplies and encourage children to create artwork expressing their unique perspectives and ideas.

6. Encourage active participation in sports and physical activities: Engage children in sports and physical activities to promote health and wellbeing while fostering teamwork and confidence.

• Example: Enroll children in sports clubs or encourage them to participate in outdoor games and activities with friends.

7. Promote curiosity and exploration of nature: Encourage children to explore and interact with nature freely, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.

• Example: Provide loose materials like sticks and ropes for outdoor play, allowing children to build and experiment in natural environments.

8. Encourage participation in community events: Involve children in community events and activities to broaden their experiences and social connections.

• Example: Attend local festivals or community gatherings, encouraging children to interact with others and participate in various activities.

9. Support risk assessment and management skills: Provide opportunities for children to assess and manage risks independently, building confidence and decision-making abilities.

• Example: Create a safe environment for children to practice balance and coordination skills, offering guidance and support as needed.

10. Trust your children: Show confidence in children’s abilities to assess and manage risks, empowering them to take ownership of their decisions and actions.

• Example: Allow children to try new activities independently, offering encouragement and support as they navigate challenges.

11. Ensure that an adult is on hand to provide supervision: Maintain adult supervision when children engage in risky activities, ensuring safety and providing assistance when necessary.

• Example: Stay nearby to offer guidance and support as children explore new challenges, ready to intervene if needed to ensure their wellbeing.

Safety Taking Risk with UNIS Hanoi’s Programme

Encouraging comfort with risk taking in early childhood is pivotal for nurturing resilient and adaptable individuals.

By implementing tailored strategies, educators and caregivers can create an environment where children feel safe to explore and learn from uncertainty.

With a focus on holistic development, these efforts lay the foundation for lifelong learning and growth.

UNIS Hanoi provides innovative programmes that support children in embracing risk taking.

To learn more about UNIS Hanoi’s approach and to explore opportunities for your child to thrive, visit our website today and apply to our programmes!