Words are powerful things. They are the keys we use to unlock meaning, allowing us to understand new information and ideas. They are the tools we use to construct and share our own thoughts, giving us a voice. A broad, rich vocabulary – the words we recognise and know how to use – allows a … Read more
Is your child going to enter BBC Radio 2’s 500 Words competition? Author and creative writing expert Christopher Edge shares his tips for planning a top-tier tale. 1. Planning your story Some authors plot their stories in intricate detail while others like to fly by the seat of their pants, making up the whole story … Read more
Sharing a book at bedtime helps develop your child’s vocabulary, gets them used to the idea of regular reading, and gives you both a great opportunity to bond. Children’s author Cerrie Burnell gives us her top tips for getting the most out of bedtime reading. We all know what it’s like to get home after … Read more
Here at Oxford Owl, we know that children’s mental health is a very important issue, so we’ve teamed up with the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) to put together some advice about how you can support your child to cope with stress and anxiety, information about children’s mental health and … Read more
After spending ten years as a school librarian, Beverley Humphrey is now a literacy adviser involved in a number of reading and writing projects. Here she gives her expert advice on how you can help choose the right book for your 7–11 year old. 1. Visit libraries Try to visit your local library regularly with … Read more
A love of books is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. Studies have shown that children who read for pleasure are more likely to do well at school – and the earlier you start, the better. But how do you choose from the huge number of wonderful books available? Children’s librarian … Read more
If your child was born between 1 September 2014 and 31 August 2015, you will need to apply for a place at primary school by the middle of January 2019. If this applies to you, you might find yourself asking two questions: 1. Wow, primary school already, where did the time go? 2. Now, where … Read more
Most schools hold parents’ evenings every term, and they’re a very important part of the relationship you develop with your child’s school and their teacher. Whether you’re about to have your first experience of a parents’ evening, or already have several under your belt, we’ve got some suggestions to help make sure you get the … Read more
Starting primary school is an exciting new chapter in your child’s life. Schools, and Reception teachers in particular, are well aware of the importance of this big step, and are dedicated to helping children settle in quickly and start enjoying school life. It can feel daunting when your child starts ‘big school’. But by the … Read more
Back in 2014, the primary curriculum as we knew it was dramatically overhauled in pretty much every area of learning. ICT (information and communication technology) saw some of the biggest changes — namely because it ceased to exist as a subject from that point onwards! It was replaced by computing, which placed a much heavier … Read more