From Highway to Heaven to Fortycoats & Co — television shows I watched in my childhood and early adulthood played a significant role in shaping the views, opinions and beliefs I still hold today

A new study shows the impact social background has on children's educational experience

If we are to manage our problematic relationship with technology, we need to work with humans, not the devices.

The attachment style a child forms with their caregiver significantly influences how they approach relationships as adults. Securely attached children tend to become adults comfortable with intimacy and trusting others easily.  Those with insecure attachments (anxious, avoidant, or disorganised) may struggle with trust, emotional regulation, or forming healthy, close relationships

A 2023 study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) in Britain found that nearly half of children experienced a further decline in social and emotional skills during the pandemic.

I am concerned that constant tracking could limit their opportunities to develop crucial life skills

 For most children with underlying anxiety, the return to school in September will almost always see it bubble up to the surface.

"Along with assessing levels of independence individually, general guidelines and principles can help parents determine the right level for their teenager."

As the adult child becomes more independent, parents need to redefine their role from caretakers to mentors or supporters

"Child development and parenting manuals emphasise the importance of consistency, reliability, and predictability. Yet change is inevitable, including the transition from primary to secondary school."