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The Unsung Heroes of EYFS: More Than Just Finger Painting and Play-Doh

Last week, I received a message that was, let’s say, enthusiastic in pointing out that I’d been a bit remiss in singing the praises of the teaching within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and I had indeed glossed over each stage while I covered the school choice  rather than what went on in it. So, armed with my strongest cup of tea and a generous helping of humility, I’m here to set the record straight.

Teaching EYFS is not for the faint-hearted. In Dubai, it’s even more of an adventure, as early years teachers often wear multiple hats—roles that, back in the UK, might be shared with health visitors or community support workers. Here, they’re the front-line warriors for families. Need help with your little one’s emotional outbursts? EYFS teachers are your people. Struggling with boundaries or unlocking your child’s inner Picasso? They’ve got your back. And let’s not forget, they’re the ones gently breaking the news that no, your toddler probably won’t be running MI6 by next week (but give them time—EYFS teachers are eternal optimists who believe nothing is impossible).

The EYFS curriculum is, quite frankly, a masterpiece. It’s not just ABCs and 123s; it’s about nurturing the whole child. Every day is a symphony of play and discovery, where children build critical skills without even realizing they’re learning. Communication and Language is one of the cornerstones, where EYFS teachers guide children from babbling to brilliance. They teach them to listen, express ideas, and confidently share their thoughts, whether they’re negotiating over who gets the last block or recounting an exciting story. Then there’s Physical Development. While you might see children scaling the climbing frame, your child’s teacher sees future Olympians mastering gross motor skills or budding surgeons honing fine motor precision as they carefully paint inside the lines—well, mostly inside.

Personal, Social, and Emotional Development is another essential piece of the puzzle. Sharing toys, waiting for their turn, and working in teams may seem like small things to us, but for young minds, they’re monumental milestones. It’s emotional gymnastics, and EYFS teachers are the gold-medal coaches cheering them on. These social and emotional skills form the foundation for a lifetime of healthy relationships and resilience.

But EYFS doesn’t stop there. Your teachers sprinkle a little extra magic with the specific areas of learning. Literacy isn’t just about letters and sounds—it’s about unlocking entire worlds. Whether your child is “reading” their first picture book or scribbling wobbly letters, they’re laying the groundwork for lifelong adventures. Mathematics, meanwhile, is where future problem-solvers are born. Counting blocks or sorting shapes might look like child’s play, but it’s the first step toward skills that could someday calculate rocket trajectories—or at least figure out how to fairly divide pizza slices.

Understanding the world is an actual curriculum aim and it turns EYFS classrooms into mini laboratories of discovery. Teachers nurture little Einsteins as they explore science, history, and culture, whether they’re building bridges from blocks or marvelling at how caterpillars transform into butterflies. Expressive Arts and Design is where imagination reigns supreme. From singing songs about dinosaurs to sculpting spaghetti masterpieces, children discover the joy of creation and the power of self-expression.

Of course, it’s not always smooth sailing. For children still learning English, every task becomes an extra challenge. But with patience, creativity, and a pinch of teacher magic, these little ones thrive, navigating new sounds and words with growing confidence. Watching them grow and succeed is one of the many rewards that keep EYFS teachers going.

And let’s not forget the superheroes behind it all. To teach EYFS, you need to be part Sherlock Holmes (detecting passions and potential), part Mary Poppins (because let’s face it, a spoonful of sugar does help), and part hostage negotiator (getting toddlers to tidy up takes serious skill). On top of that, you’ll need the patience of a saint and the stamina of an ultramarathon runner.

An EYFS teacher’s day is a whirlwind of profound moments and sheer hilarity. One minute, they’re nurturing the characteristics of effective learning—teaching children to play, explore, think critically, and stay motivated. The next, they’re unsticking someone’s jumper from the art easel or mediating a very serious dispute over a very important blue crayon. Through it all, they see the spark of learning in those little eyes, the magic of a child figuring out how the world works, one tiny step at a time.

So, for anyone wondering what EYFS teachers actually do all day, the answer is simple: they do a bit of everything, and they do it with love, creativity, and a fair amount of coffee. It’s not just teaching; it’s shaping the next generation of confident, curious, and compassionate humans. And honestly? There’s no better job in the world. After all, it’s in EYFS that the love of learning truly begins. If you ever doubt their skill just remember COVID lockdown as always mums have a brilliant glitter filled week ahead. We have a long weekend and then it’s the slippery slope to Christmas.

Choosing your new school.

Right then,  let’s chat schools. One minute you’re changing nappies and negotiating with a toddler about why spaghetti doesn’t belong on the ceiling, and the next, you’re Googling “best Dubai schools” like your life depends on it. Blink three times post-birth, and boom! You’re staring at your baby in a mini uniform, all ready for packed lunches, PE kits, and the glorious chaos of early education. Let’s navigate this rollercoaster together.

Let’s start with the basics The UK School System is like IKEA Instructions with Extra Acronyms

—EYFS, or the Early Years Foundation Stage. It’s for ages 0 to 5 and is basically “learning through play,” which is a fancy way of saying your kid will come home covered in glitter, yogurt, and a suspicious amount of something unidentifiable. Then, at age 5, it’s off to Key Stage 1, where actual subjects like English, Maths, and Science enter the fray. And because we’re in Dubai, you can toss Arabic into the mix—because why have one language when you can have three?

Fast forward to Key Stage 2 (ages 7-11), where the curriculum gets fancy with ICT, Geography, and History. And here’s the kicker: instead of UK SATs, many schools here opt for CAT4 or GL Assessments. Yes, it sounds terrifying, but it’s not. CAT4 is an online test that predicts academic outcomes, though let’s be honest—kids often get bored halfway through and start clicking random answers. Pro tip from my kids: apparently, C is always a solid choice (2nd pro tip – don’t use the first one).

First impressions matter, and here is my spoiler alert: the perfect school does not exist, so when you tour schools, take in the vibe. Is it a place where your child will thrive, or does it feel like Hogwarts without the magic? Every family is different—what works for one might not work for you. So, listen to your friends, but also trust your gut. I’ve even got a questionnaire with 3 pages of questions to help narrow things down (it’s in our school information page – just click here if you want it), though be prepared for some lively debates with your other half about what “good education” actually means.

A school is only as good as its teachers they are the real MVPs (most valuable players). Look for ones who love what they do and can answer, “Why is the sky blue?” 500 times without losing their sanity. Bonus points for schools that invest in professional development because teachers who learn are teachers who inspire.

Dubai schools are like luxury resorts: libraries, STEM rooms, swimming pools, sports pitches and athletic tracks, music and dance studios, even climbing walls—you name it. But don’t let the shiny stuff distract you. In the early years, check out the play spaces and classroom setups. Are kids allowed to run free, or are they expected to sit like mini accountants? Happy faces in the classroom = happy learning.

Smaller class sizes are also a game-changer. More one-on-one attention means your child won’t just be another face in the crowd. And let’s not forget the extracurriculars. Music, art, sports—they’re not just “nice to have”; they’re sanity-savers for parents who don’t want to spend weekends ferrying kids to 47 different clubs.

The communication system and the community vibe of a school are essential; Good schools keep parents in the loop. Think weekly emails, parent socials, and updates that don’t require deciphering emojis. You want to feel part of the school community without the drama of a 400-person WhatsApp group.

Ah, fees. This is always the big question, and the fees are eye-watering. Dubai school costs can rival a small mortgage, so make sure you understand the full picture—uniforms, buses, after-school clubs, the works. Also, think logistics. How far is the school? Do they offer wrap-around care if you both work? And how do they handle homework, devices, and, heaven help us, competitive sports?

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. Visit the school, watch how they interact with kids, and ask a million questions. And don’t forget—this is Dubai. The mums here have ALL the intel. Ask on this page, and you’ll get the good, the bad, and the hilarious stories that make this whole journey a little less daunting.

Good luck. You’ve got this! Just remember, finding the “perfect school” is a myth. But finding the right one for your family? That’s 100% doable. ??

What happens after GCSEs

Hello again! So, you’ve just survived the GCSE gauntlet, made your choices, and are now on the road to the next challenge. Maybe you have even treated yourselves to a calming drink or three while your teen lay face down on the sofa, muttering about never wanting to see another exam paper or school again. But now comes the next big question: what’s next after Year 11? Can you believe it’s time even to ask that question with the pressure of exams barely being felt?

Let’s start with the basics, shall we? There are a few main paths forward (if we can get them off the Xbox, that is). In the UK they can either (1) stay on at school for A-Levels or BTECs, (2) take on the working world with an apprenticeship (picture: early mornings, real jobs, shock!), or (3) head to Further Education (FE) colleges for typically something hands-on, like hairdressing or engineering. Now, in Dubai, things are a tad simpler because our kids don’t have FE options, so it’s mostly A-Levels or BTECs. The latest addition is the IFP (International Foundation Programme) through some universities post-GCSE, which might pique their interest if they aren’t ready for the full Sixth Form experience and are having a meltdown about staying in school “for another two years”.

Now, if your teen’s are choosing the traditional Sixth Form route, brace yourselves for two years of A-Levels, IB or BTECs. The decision-making usually happens around February of Year 11, with some schools asking students now, which, let’s be honest, is peak “I don’t know what I’m doing” season for most teens. These are kids who take longer picking a Friday night movie than their A-Level subjects. But here’s the thing: they don’t have to have it all figured out yet. Results day in August is the great “whoops, let’s reconsider” moment anyway.

If you’re planning for UK university, now’s the time to think about subject requirements. A-Level science and maths for engineering? Check. Economics or business with maths for a career in finance? All good. Just get them through three A-Levels or equivalent, and they’re sorted for most UK universities. Heading to the US? you IB may be an easier option. Other requirements apply, but let’s save that chat for another column. And just a heads-up for anyone considering BTECs: they’re fab for the UK, but always check the fine print if your future scholar is thinking of Europe or elsewhere. Yes, they may have spent their gap year as a ski instructor in Switzerland and fallen in love with the opportunity, but a BTEC will be unlikely to make the cut there.

Now, the juicy bit – money, if you are thinking of UK university routes. UK university tuition is capped at £9,250 a year if they’ve got “home status,” plus around £7,000 for accommodation, and let’s not forget the pocket money for student essentials: a new North Face puffer, enough ramen noodles to last a lifetime, and the occasional very important night out. But “home status” is tricky – you’ll need a UK address, residency rules, and possibly a letter from your nan (or at least just her post box will do). If you’ve been out of the UK for over two years, home status isn’t a given, even if they’ve got a British passport. But don’t panic; there are of course ways and opportunities to get “home status”. Due to the the way the Government funds university places if your child is looking for something in a less popular college with a less popular course and they have a British passport it is very likely you will be offered home status. Fun fact: just to make it more complicated students from here will often get a mix of home and international status offers, which keeps us all on our toes. And while student loans and home status are two different beasts, it’s worth a look – although student loans are sometimes more elusive than finding your teen’s AirPods, but it’s possible and many parents here do jump on the search successfully for this particular holy grail. For our “international” kids, the fees are often much higher, and I will repeat it again every university has its own special definition of “residency.” Students have to apply through UCAS, which lets them apply to five universities, and they end up with a “firm choice” (aka, their top pick) and an “insurance” choice (backup plan) and of course a chance to change their entire direction just before they leave for College by applying for something totally different through clearing.

So, there it is: the map from GCSEs to whatever comes next. Take a deep breath and remember they don’t need every answer now; they just need enough to reach the next step. Please encourage them to explore the subjects that spark a flicker of interest (however faint!) and start doing a bit of research. Sites like UCAS and Unifrog are great for that – endless rabbit holes for you to fall down as a Mum, and yes, things have changed since we were there. Just remember, mums, it’s all part of the process, and if one door closes, another one usually opens (or at least has a window they can shimmy through). Cheers to the next adventure – we’ve got this!

The GCSE low down – are you ready?

Oh, the school years Just when we think we’ve mastered the art of juggling, we’re handed another challenge. Now, it seems our darling Year 10s are “not on track” to pass their exams… in a year and a half! Who knew we’d be in a race against time? And as if that’s not enough, our Year 9s are being gently (or not-so-gently) prodded to pick their GCSE options. Wasn’t it just yesterday we were snapping photos of them on their first day of school? Time flies when you’re having fun (or at least putting on a brave face).

So, here’s the scoop on GCSE choices: fortunately, some of it’s already sorted. The kids start with the core subjects – English Language and Literature, Maths, and Science (a triple treat of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics). This can either be “Combined Science” (two GCSEs) or the full shebang with “Triple Science” (three GCSEs). That’s already five or six exams in the bag. For those aiming high, eight GCSEs are a solid starting point, ideally with grades of 6 or higher. But once the basics are covered, it’s time for the “extras” – the balancing act between at least one “perceived traditionally academic” subject (think History, Geography, or a Language) and something from the newer options like Design, Media, or PE.

Year 11 is when they finally sit these exams – usually around age 16, marking the grand finale of compulsory schooling. Many schools here start rolling out the core curriculum in Year 9. And here’s the kicker: the exams are graded by an outside examiner, who serves up fresh, never-before-seen questions that require two years’ worth of knowledge crammed in their brains, ready for a one-shot performance. Oh, and did I mention that it’s not as simple as opening one textbook anymore? Now, they’ve got to hunt down info in textbooks, the school’s Teams page, and a dozen random websites. Our kids practically need a PhD in organisational skills! One tip – download the syllabus from the exam board’s website so they can check off what they know (and what’s still lurking on the to-do list).

As mums, we know early revision is key. Our kids? Not so much. They’re convinced some magical revision fairy will swoop in on exam day and sprinkle success dust. And let’s be honest, the more we push, the more they resist. It’s their little way of clinging to control in a world constantly telling them what to do. What they really need from us is reassurance – that no matter what, we’ve got their backs.

When it comes to exams, I always remind my teens of the “big two”: 1) learn the material, and 2) figure out how to use it in an exam setting. Simple, right? If they start to panic, just ask: “Do you know the content? Yes? Do you know how to answer questions? Yes? Then you’ve got this!”

Now, the million-dirham question: How crucial are GCSEs, really? Yes, they matter – Maths and English especially – and colleges and employers will definitely be taking a look. For many, they might be the only formal qualifications on a CV, especially if university isn’t part of the plan. But, if exams aren’t their thing, remind them that there are other routes, like BTECs (which, let’s be honest, could be a whole separate chat). There’s always a way forward.

So, here’s to embracing the madness, trusting the process, and reminding ourselves (and our teens) that no decision is the end of the world. Hang in there, mums – the GCSE storm will pass. And, in the grand scheme of things, this is just a little speed bump on their journey forward.

Raising Children With Grit

Grit! Not the kind that shows up as tiny muddy footprints all over our freshly mopped floors (thank you, children, and pets for that constant joy), but the kind of grit that everyone can’t stop talking about these days—the stuff that’s supposed to turn our darling little ones into resilient, never-give-up troopers.

It’s like every time I look at a child development article or get sucked into a TED talk, there it is again: “grit is the magical secret ingredient for producing future leaders, academic superstars, and, who knows, possibly the next Prime Minister.” But let’s break it down, shall we? What on earth is grit? And more to the point, can we actually help our kids develop it? Grit, that blend of passion and perseverance, has been touted as more crucial to success than raw brainpower. Imagine that. All those spelling tests and multiplication drills, and it turns out that what really matters is whether your kid has the determination to keep going when things get tough.

Now, the big question: are kids born with grit, or do they pick it up somewhere between naptime and soccer practice? The experts don’t quite agree, but one thing’s for sure—gone are the days of the “just suck it up” parenting model. We’ve become a bit obsessed with our kids’ happiness. I mean, hands up if you’ve ever catered to their toast shape preference. Oh yes, whether it’s cut into triangles, rectangles, or the ever-popular dinosaur shape (don’t even ask), we’re all in on the quest for harmony at breakfast. But where does that leave us when there is the announcement that they don’t like gymnastics today—not because they have lost interest but because, “Mum, I’m just tired”? And you get that look as if the solution should be obvious: cancel gymnastics.

Let’s be honest; some days, they do need a break, but quitting entirely? That’s where we step in, I reckon. Grit isn’t something you teach like multiplication tables; it’s something kids develop when we nudge them a little further out of their comfort zone. You might recognise this as the painful experience of paying for a 10-week gymnastics course only to have your child lose all enthusiasm by week three. Or worse—like that time I caved and bought a horse (a whole horse), only for my kids to suddenly lose their interest in riding entirely. I swear, it took them two weeks to even notice the horse was gone.

Helping our kids develop grit is really about teaching them to persevere when it’s hard, whether it’s reading that really tricky book or sticking with the times tables. Sure, there are loads of clever new ways to teach maths these days, but I shudder whenever I see ads promising “quick and easy” methods to make kids math geniuses. It just doesn’t work that way! Grit, like multiplication, is one of those non-negotiables—you’ve got to dig in and work for it.

And yes, as parents, we are very much along for the ride. There are no cheat codes in this game called parenthood, and most days, it takes a healthy dose of grit for us too—sticking with it through the meltdowns, the backtalk, and the exhausting extra-curriculars. So next time your child says they’re tired and wants to quit, remember: this is the start of that famous grit everyone’s raving about.

As I always say we don’t have a crystal ball, so trust the process and enjoy the ride. Have a fabulous week ahead mopping those gritty floors x

Mums of children with inclusion needs

Now, onto something a little deeper (but still with a light heart!) – inclusion. Mums, we’ve all got our challenges, but if you’re raising a child with inclusion needs, it can feel like you’re climbing Everest without a guidebook. And getting them into school? Oh, that’s just the start of the journey!

Let’s face it, we don’t always get those easy-to-share proud mum moments. You know, the “my child aced their spelling test” or “gold star for perfect handwriting” posts. Instead, we’re over here celebrating the unseen wins – the coaxing, the tears (theirs and ours), the endless patience, and those tiny triumphs that mean the world to us.

And let’s not forget the meetings. You know the ones – “Your child is a delight,” “They’re great at communicating” (aka, they talk non-stop), or “They’re a class favourite!” But somehow, academic progress always feels like it’s taking the scenic route.

Then comes the big convo – support. How much help is too much? Not enough? Should they have more? And let’s talk about the labels – ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia… you name it. It might make us wince, but honestly, I think these labels are our secret weapons.  Once we know how our children learn, we can help them flourish. I like to think of neurodivergent children as having Lamborghini brains – fast, brilliant, and complex, but learning to drive them at the age of one? Now that’s the challenge!

And oh, the cost of getting support. Ugh, it’s enough to make anyone weep. Educational psychologist reports don’t come cheap, and insurance rarely helps. But before diving into that financial abyss, check with the school – some assessments are free, so start there! And if you do need that report? It’s worth it. Especially as they grow older and need accommodations for GCSEs or other exams.

Once I came to terms with my boys’ learning needs, I was amazed by their perspective. They see the world differently, and I’ve learned to cherish that. Take spelling, for example. My daughter would nail her list in 5 minutes. But for my boys? We had to get creative. We’d break it down into small pieces – even used plasticine! Rolling out the letters, creating the words in 3D, cutting them up, and putting them back together. Trust me, it made those tricky blends way more fun (and manageable!).

Unless you’re living it, it’s hard to grasp how much effort goes into these small victories. So, if you see a mum of a child who is learning differently, give her a high-five, a smile, or even a hug. You have no idea what mountains she’s climbing today.

Here’s to our little ones who think outside the box, who see the world from a different angle, and who are as bright and capable as their peers despite school systems that don’t work in harmony with them, recognize the small wins or allow them to learn in the way they need to, but we see it, and that’s what counts. Our kids are building resilience and strategies that will serve them for life – they are strong, brilliant, and destined for greatness.

So, cheers to another week of mum-life madness! Remember, we don’t have crystal balls, so let’s roll with it, do the best we can, and embrace the unknown with a smile. Sending all the love and high-fives to you, fellow mum champions!

Expat Mums’ Weekly Column: The Power of “Why?, IB and UK explained”

Did you know you can only ask “why” seven times before you find an answer? Well, I wasn’t too sure about that either, but after a bit of digging, I discovered something even more fascinating: kids aged 14 months to 5 years ask an average of 107 questions an hour! Yes, you read that right. And once they learn the magic word “why,” it’s like a floodgate opens—suddenly, you’re drowning in a sea of curiosity faster than you can answer!

We’ve all been there, right? The days when even Google seems to struggle under the weight of your little one’s endless questions. From “Why is the sky blue?” to “Where does the moon go at night?”, some questions leave even the best of us stumped. One of my favorite moments happened during a trip to Tesco when my eldest, in his loudest toddler voice, asked, “Why does everyone hate working here?” Cue my attempts to explain that people didn’t hate their jobs, only to be met with, “Well, that lady’s face says otherwise!” (as he pointed right at the poor checkout assistant). Mortifying? Absolutely. Hilarious? Without a doubt!

But beyond the amusing questions our little ones ask, there’s a bigger one I hear from parents more often than any other: “UK curriculum or IB?” And that’s where things get tricky, because both are fantastic in their own ways. They each have unique strengths, and which one is best really depends on your child’s needs and future goals.

I like to explain it this way: education is all about answering questions—some of which we haven’t even thought to ask yet! Remember learning about cells in school? I still don’t know why we had to memorize the function of mitochondria, but understanding osmosis has actually come in handy.

Now, if the IB and UK curriculums were to approach the topic of cells, here’s how they’d do it: Imagine you’re a kid again, curious about cells. If you were following the IB, you’d start with cells, but pretty soon, you’d be exploring related topics like energy, ecosystems, and even animals—because that’s the IB style: one question leads to another, creating a rich web of interconnected knowledge. On the other hand, if you were following the UK curriculum, you’d focus on cells alone, diving deep to answer precise questions and mastering the core material before moving on to the next subject.

Both approaches get the job done, but with IB, you get a broader perspective, while the UK system is more targeted. So, how do you decide which is best? Well, that depends on where you see your child’s future. If the UK is your destination, A-Levels may be the more straightforward path, particularly if your child enjoys focusing on just a few subjects. But if you’re keeping global university options open, the IB offers more flexibility. Keep in mind, switching between systems—especially mid-way through primary years—can mean missing key concepts, so it’s often best to stick with one system until your child is ready for A-Levels or the IB Diploma in secondary school.

In the end, the right choice comes down to your child’s personality, strengths, and goals. Every child is unique, even within the same family. What works for one sibling might not be the right fit for another. And let’s be honest—we’re all too busy to juggle multiple school runs through Dubai traffic!

So, my advice? Trust the process. Whether you’re debating curriculums or losing sleep over your child’s future, just know that if you communicate, love, and support them, they’ll thrive in whatever school system they find themselves in.

Have an awesome week, fellow expats! And remember, none of us have a crystal ball—so just roll with it!

Reading…

Last week’s post got me thinking—how one little word can mean so many things depending on how you look at it! It’s probably why English is such a quirky yet essential language to master, and why IGCSE English is such a big milestone. Speaking of, did anyone else study Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s The Danger of a Single Story? As an expat mum, her words really hit home. She reminds us that “to create a single story, show a people as one thing, over and over, and that is what they become.” With our lives so intertwined with different cultures, it’s easy to see how things can get lost in translation when we don’t explore the richness of language. And let’s be honest, English can be pretty wild sometimes!

Having spent so long in this part of the world, I’ve learned that not everything translates the way you expect. Like the time I eagerly told my amazing Emirati colleagues they could be my “guinea pigs” for a new project… the confused looks still crack me up to this day! Idioms can be hilarious but for kids? They’re a whole new ball game! Think about trying to explain “raining cats and dogs” or “storm in a teacup” to a 5-year-old. They’ll probably take it literally—picture tiny dogs falling from the sky! I’d love to hear your favorite idioms that left someone totally baffled. Come on, we’ve all been there, right?

Then there’s the classic language confusion we expats know too well—those moments when our third-culture kids say things like “It’s round the backside” or “the water’s not coming.” Cue the bemused stares from relatives back home! It’s all part of this fun, unpredictable journey of raising little ones across cultures.

Language is so important to everything our kids do, and I can’t stress enough how key it is to keep their curiosity alive through reading. Whether it’s Thomas the Tank Engine, Mr. Men (who remembers Little Miss Sunshine?), to Helen Farmer’s charming book about what mums really do while the kids are at school—anything that sparks their interest is pure gold. Making reading fun is the real key, and it’s the cornerstone of academic success. The earlier we start, the better!

Speaking of academics, if you’ve got a child doing IGCSE English, you probably already know that coursework is 40% of the final exam. Yep, they can redo it, but let’s aim to give it their best shot on the first draft, right? A little friendly pressure never hurts, especially with the school year flying by for Year 10 and Year 11.

And if your child struggles with reading, don’t panic! Sometimes it’s just a simple case of missing letter sounds. A quick trick—try printing out the alphabet backward (yes, from z to a!) and have them sound it out not the name the sound. No singing the ABCs, though! You’ll be surprised what this reveals.

I’m also curious—what are your all-time favorite books for kids and teens? I’m still obsessed with Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy (yes, even now!), Where the Wild Things Are (though the movie, hmm, wasn’t my fave), and of course, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt—such a classic. Sadly, Enid Blyton books like Famous Five and Mallory Towers may not be as relatable today, but they’re still our childhood staples, right? As a teen, I was all about Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, and the one and only Jane Austen’s Emma. And who else loved My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell? Honestly, my life feels a bit like that book sometimes—chaotic and full of love for all things wild and wonderful!

Times have definitely changed, but one thing hasn’t—a child who reads opens up new worlds. Reading gives them a broader perspective on life, allows them to relax, and sparks their imagination. When I was younger, TV only came on in the evenings (imagine that!), and on a rainy day, a book was the only source of entertainment.

Anyway, enough of my bookish reflections. I’d love to hear yours! What are the books that shaped your childhood or your child’s imagination? Drop them in the comments below. Reading matters, it really does, from the first time a little one follows along with pictures to the day they start predicting plot twists. Watching a child fall in love with books is a gift—it just takes time and patience (and yes, collecting books can be an expensive hobby!). But also remember this advice is given in love – of my three children one only reads when there is absolutely no other alternative entertainment; the second is literally allergic to books and the third I have to surgically remove books from at 3am in the morning. Every child is different and that’s what makes them all so frustrating …erm wrong word … beautiful!

Until next week x

Mums school challenges 2

Thank you all for your lovely comments last week! It’s clear that so many of us are feeling the same frustrations—school places, class sizes, teacher shortages, inclusion needs, and of course, the dreaded Arabic. With Dubai growing so fast and everyone wanting to live here, schools are understandably full, and the infrastructure is still catching up. But there is light at the end of the tunnel! With exciting plans for new schools and some fantastic ones still with space available, I think September 2025 will bring some much-needed relief as new options open up so we will have to just hang in there. There are lots of new schools showcasing themselves at the British Mums Education Breakfast on the 8th of October. Have you got your tickets yet?

There are so many changes going on at the moment. The new UCAS entry system for 2026 is just one example (more on that soon), and don’t forget the Oxbridge deadline on October 15th—months earlier than the typical university application deadlines so do get busy if these prestigious universities are on your radar.

Parents of Year 6 kids are in the thick of entrance exam season, with the stress levels high! If that’s you, my advice is to help your child by practising exam skills. Get them to write essays within a time limit, read current affairs to build their world knowledge, and maybe even sneak in some non-verbal reasoning and tricky math topics they might struggle with. But most of all, keep a balanced mindset—if they get in, great! If they don’t, it simply wasn’t the right school. There’s so much pressure on our kids to follow traditional routes, yet they’re entering a world that’s evolving fast with AI and tech changing the job market. Encourage them to dream big, stay passionate, and keep an open mind. Happy balanced, well-rounded children should always be our ultimate goal.

Many parents are also navigating inclusion needs. It’s wonderful that education is really starting to recognize that every child learns differently, but it’s important to remember that any diagnosis or label doesn’t define your child—it’s simply a tool to help understand how they learn best. I always tell parents of dyslexic children that it’s like giving a Lamborghini to a new driver—powerful and capable, but they need the right guidance to control it. These children have incredible brains, taking in information from all angles. Yes, school can be tough, but once they’re out in the world, they’ll offer incredible insights and solutions to the work they enter. So, if your child has recently been given a diagnosis, take heart—they’re destined for amazing things!

I have just spent the last 10 days in China looking at education, and I have to say I have had my mind blown away on so many levels. From the use of technology within the classroom, to innovative local and international education fusions and the well-being emphasis on children from a government level. In school, children get two compulsory “eye breaks” where at a scheduled time each day they stop, gentle music plays and they massage their eyes, additionally there is one break a day where they do stretches and movement as a class. While this may not enhance their education, it focuses on them and their well-being and this is so important in today’s impersonal world. I have learned so much that I am sure I will drip-feed this for many months to come.

I hope that everyone’s child is settling into the new school term, it feels like we have just blinked and half term is already on the horizon (thankfully), I hope that your children have made friends, it can be tough when a friend moves to a new country. I also hope that if they require additional support this is being met and you are seeing them settle in and make small wins every day. For mums who like me are now child-free as our children spread their wings and I am sure like me are now receiving the occasional very scary message about ‘heading for another night out, and they didn’t have time to buy any food or do any washing’ – that you are also enjoying a new found freedom but hopefully with food and washing!

And finally, let’s be honest, mums of children in school you all deserve awards! We juggle homework, master exams, cheer on sports, make meals that pass the picky eater test, and brave the roads during rush hour—twice a day! So, let’s all worry a little less many of the people who didn’t shine in school have gone on to do amazing things as adults. Remember, there are far fewer misbehaving adults than children! Somewhere along the way, the process works! I always say – trust the process, children were made to grow and all they need is a little food and water with a whole lot of love along the way.

Mums school challenges.

Happy Sunday Mums, I am going to write a weekly education column, that will hopefully resonate and help us all feel less alone as we navigate the school challenges without children. If anyone needs to know anything specific like what the heck is BTEC or how do I choose subjects or schools, please let me know and I will of course do my best to include it, education is no longer as simple as it used to be. So as this is my first piece, it seemed only fitting to focus on FIRST as a theme.

As we navigate through our first month back to school, “firsts” really are important at this moment! For some, it’s the thrill of the first day of school, for others, the bittersweet last first day as their children step into their final school year. And let’s not forget the poignant first day of independence for our kids heading off to university – leaving their rooms unusually quiet and our hearts a tad heavy. I am now part of that “empty nest” a day I never thought would come.

But amidst the tears, let’s raise a glass (or a comforting cup of tea!) to celebrate. We’ve been gearing up for these milestones since their very first day at school. It’s been a team effort, and yes, they’ve made it! Hats off to all of us – parenting through A-Levels definitely demands an extra-large serving of patience, not to mention that interminably long summer that none of us actually dared breathe until results day in August.

First are also kicked off with first selections for sports teams, house captains, and other leadership roles. And of course, there’s the buzz about club memberships, classroom buddies, and whether they’ve landed their favourite teacher – fingers crossed that the feelings are mutual!

Sundays always used to be my panic days, yet now can you believe it I am actually missing the panic over the inevitable lunch box dilemma? Wondering if anyone would mind (or more importantly notice) if I sneak a sausage roll into it? Maybe balance it out with an apple? Then there was always a sudden panic about the forgotten bake sale, and not forgetting, the spellings we didn’t go over. Sometimes, just keeping up feels like a feat and as Mums the pressure to juggle it all and often a full-time job can be overwhelming, please do not get me started on the almost weekly requirements of costumes!

No matter the school or year, the ‘firsts’ can be daunting. It’s like unwrapping a gift from your mother-in-law: open it with a spoonful of positivity and gratitude remembering, your children are watching but if you’re thinking of ‘returning’ that not-so-perfect gift, they don’t need to know! Children tell their teacher everything and I mean EVERYTHING!

Lately, I’ve heard from many Mums anxious about how their children will adjust to the new school year, especially those facing extra educational challenges. My advice? Stay calm and be present. These first few weeks are less about academic rigour and more about nurturing resilience. Let them struggle a bit, and find their footing, just like when they were learning to walk they may have fallen but they always got up and following those first faltering steps ran and then went on to learn how to ride a bike. It is likely looking back you may have supported them but you never “taught” them to walk or run they learned that all on their own and believe me when I say that they have got this, even if you feel you haven’t. Always give your child time to rise to the occasion and surprise you. After all, if resilience is the only thing they master at this time, then you have done an amazing job, one that will be central to their success as they grow up.

So, let’s celebrate these ‘firsts,’ each one a step towards their eventual confident, resilient leap out of the nest – knowing they can always come back to their strong roots.

Enjoy your Sunday and yes learning the spelling words does matter but the actual test is just background noise in the bigger picture. I would rather a child who says Mum I got 2 out 10 in my spelling this week but it’s OK I will do better next week than one who was in tears and frustrated with no plan for improvement for next week. The immediate score in the wider scheme is less important than the attitude. Here’s to a fantastic start and many small victories ahead!