One day, I was completely blindsided in school- I had to give a test that I had not prepared for because I was under the impression that the test was going to be on another subject entirely. Needless to say, it did not go well.

As an adolescent, you may have heard the phrase “You’re still living your childhood,” from any adult with whom you may have spoken. As adolescents, we have had little experience, but we’re learning every day. As a generation, we are learning to forge our own paths in life, but this has led to the stereotype that we are impulsive and lack maturity. Adults may have an advantage in knowing more about the actual world and the various problems life brings forth for them. We may know nothing about them, but they disregard the fact that we, as teens, are living in a different period of life.

• While STEM subjects are undeniably important, arts education plays a vital role in fostering creativity, self-expression, and emotional intelligence. Through music, visual arts, theatre, and dance, students develop critical skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Arts education encourages students to think outside the box, explore their imagination, and express themselves in unique ways.

• In an increasingly technology-driven world, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education has become more important than ever. By equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills, STEM education prepares them for success in the 21st century workforce.
• Through hands-on activities, projects, and real-world applications, STEM education engages students in meaningful learning experiences.

• In today’s interconnected world, cultural education plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds. Schools serve as melting pots of diversity, bringing together students from various cultural backgrounds. Embracing diversity not only fosters tolerance and understanding but also enriches the learning experience for all students.
• Cultural education goes beyond simply acknowledging different customs and traditions; it involves celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity.

As parents, we wield incredible influence in unlocking the boundless potential of our daughters and guiding them towards a future where they can flourish in every aspect of life. Positive parenting serves as a cornerstone in shaping our girls’ educational journey, instilling within them a robust sense of self-esteem, resilience, and agency. Through a nurturing and empowering approach, we cultivate an environment where our daughters feel esteemed, respected, and empowered to pursue their aspirations.

Nurturing Self-Confidence and Esteem:

You sprinted across the garden, grinning madly, as your parents ran behind you – their laughter so infectious. A sudden obstruction in your path – you tripped and fell. Your father was there in an instant, checking the injury. He was unworried and soon after, you forgot all about it.

I remember you vividly – a thin, lanky figure, your hair tied up in pigtails and your teeth displayed in a wide smile.

Scuttling along the shore, a ruby in the sands
Hurrying away when the sea washed close
He sought refuge in the holes riddled on the beach
Red claws emerged menacingly, scaring him away
Another one chased him away through the sands
The frightened beauty looked around, helpless
Scarlet claws clutching at empty air
Smooth shell slipping on the damp white grains
Crawling away clumsily from the ocean
The white mountains surging near, to swallow him whole.
He tried to escape, scraping the ground
Ragged and heaving like one deformed

As we embark on the journey of guiding our children through the transition to higher secondary school, it’s crucial to recognize the power of parental involvement in this pivotal process. Research consistently highlights the significant impact engaged parents have on their children’s academic success and overall well-being. From understanding our children’s needs to advocating for their interests, our active participation in the admissions process can truly make a difference in shaping their educational path.

Stereotypes – the veiled force lurking in our subconscious mind, shaping our beliefs and influencing our thoughts – lay the groundwork of our society.

The little child holds a conventional image of what her parents consider ‘danger’ to be. As she grows into a teenager, she chooses her friends based on her conception of a stereotypical social group. By the time she is an adult, it takes an effortless second for her to jump to a conclusion based solely on appearance.