Mastering the Day: A Guide for Parents and Kids to Build Brilliance Through Daily Routines

Have you ever found yourself in the morning rush, trying to get everyone ready and out the door, only to feel like the day is already slipping away? Imagine transforming that chaos into a seamless routine that not only sets your child up for success but also brings balance and growth into their daily life. It might sound ambitious, but with a few simple steps and powerful principles, you and your child can create a routine that cultivates confidence, resilience, and focus. Let’s explore how parents and children can craft days filled with learning, joy, and growth.

The Power of Routine: Why It Matters for Kids

At the heart of a brilliant life lies a solid structure. Routines are grounding because they reduce uncertainty and build confidence. When a child knows what to expect, they feel secure, allowing them to channel their energy into learning and creativity. Kids, just like adults, thrive on small wins and a sense of accomplishment. Creating a daily system for your child doesn’t mean filling every minute with chores or tasks—it means finding balance. The best routines are supportive, not rigid, and allow for flexibility while keeping kids on track.

Start with the End in Mind: Planning the Perfect Nighttime Routine

If there’s one thing we know about high achievers, it’s that they don’t just master their mornings—they master their nights. An effective day often begins with a good night’s sleep and a peaceful wind-down routine.

Tips for a Child-Friendly Nighttime Routine:

• Reflect and Relax: Encourage your child to spend a few quiet minutes thinking about their day. They could share their favourite moment, something they learned, or something they’re grateful for. This cultivates mindfulness and a positive outlook before bed.
• Set Intentions for Tomorrow: Ask your child to think of one thing they’d like to accomplish the next day. This could be as simple as learning something new in class or helping out at home. It helps them go to bed with a small purpose in mind, boosting their confidence for the next day.
• Establish a Calming Activity: Whether it’s reading a book, listening to calming music, or doing some light stretches, creating a calming activity can ease kids into a restful night’s sleep.

Morning Momentum: Small Wins for Big Confidence

There’s real power in starting the day with intention. Small accomplishments build confidence and get children ready for whatever comes their way. One small win in the morning can set the tone for the entire day.

Morning Routine Ideas to Try:

• Make the Bed Together: Even if it’s just a quick tidy, a made bed signals a fresh start and a simple accomplishment.
• Move the Body: Encourage a quick burst of movement, like stretching, jumping jacks, or even a short dance party. Physical activity wakes up the body and mind, preparing kids to learn and focus.
• Visualise the Day: Invite your child to imagine a positive outcome for the day ahead. Visualizing success (like acing a quiz or making a new friend) gives kids an optimistic and goal-oriented mindset.

Building Balance: Break the Day into Sections

Kids often struggle with time management, but by breaking the day into chunks, you can help them approach it with clarity and purpose. Talk with your child about dividing their day into meaningful parts: time for learning, play, meals, and rest.

Consider these day sections:

1. Before School/First Tasks: Help them start on a positive note with their morning wins.
2. School & Learning Time: Encourage them to engage fully and enjoy the process, with curiosity as their guide.
3. Breaks & Playtime: Let them know the value of unwinding and the power of play to boost creativity.
4. Afternoon Focus/Tasks: After school, let them wind down and focus on something they care about, like reading, drawing, or a hobby.
5. Evening Wind-Down: Reinforce a sense of closure on the day with the nighttime routine.

Case Study: The Johnson Family’s Transformation

The Johnson family was struggling with chaotic mornings and restless nights. By implementing a structured routine, they noticed significant improvements. Their daughter, Leah, became more focused in school and enjoyed her evenings more, leading to better sleep and a happier household. The family’s newfound balance also allowed them to spend quality time together, strengthening their bond. This is what brilliance can look like, it is often quite simple things done consistently that improves daily life.

Long-Term Goals vs. Daily Systems: A Lesson in Balance

As your child grows, they’ll benefit from learning the difference between goals and systems. Goals give them direction—something to aspire to over time. Systems, on the other hand, are their daily actions and habits that, when followed, make achieving goals easier and less daunting.

For example:

• Goal: “I want to improve in math by the end of the school year.”
• System: “Every day, I’ll spend 15 minutes reviewing a few problems I learned in class.”

By focusing on the system rather than the goal, they build a routine that keeps them engaged, without feeling overwhelmed by the end result. This way, your child learns that progress is made by showing up consistently.

Managing “Time Vampires”: Teaching Kids to Set Boundaries

It’s all too easy for kids (and adults) to have their time consumed by distractions like social media or endless screen time. You can help children set boundaries with a little guidance.

Here’s how:

• Designate Screen-Free Times: Encourage periods in the day for screen-free activities. Emphasise the value of face-to-face interactions, creative play, and time outdoors.
• Model Healthy Boundaries: Show them that saying “no” to unnecessary distractions allows them to say “yes” to what truly matters. You can model this by focusing on a hobby, spending time with family, or setting aside your own phone when you’re with them.

The Joy of Themes: Bringing Structure with Flexibility

One way to make routines engaging is to theme certain days. This isn’t about rigid scheduling—it’s about adding some variety to the week and bringing purpose to each day.

Here are a few ideas for themed days:

• Mastery Monday: Explore a new hobby or skill together, like cooking, crafting, or a fun science experiment.
• Tech-Free Tuesday: Dedicate the day to off-screen activities like reading, board games, or family walks.
• Wellness Wednesday: Focus on well-being with activities like meditation, a family yoga session, or preparing a healthy meal together.
• Fun Friday: Celebrate the end of the week with a family movie, game night, or a creative project.

Themes offer a refreshing approach to routine and help children look forward to each day with excitement.

Making Time for Hobbies: Encouraging Curiosity and Creativity

Hobbies play a big role in a child’s development. They nurture creativity, perseverance, and self-expression. Start by asking your child what they’re curious about—no wrong answers. Help them explore different activities and remind them they don’t have to be “great” at something to enjoy it.

Supporting Hobbies with Boundaries: If your child feels overloaded, remind them they can say “no” to some activities. Let them know that their time and energy are valuable, and they have the right to choose how to spend it.

Batching Tasks: The Secret to Focused Time

Teach your child the value of batching by grouping similar tasks together. For example, instead of constantly checking for new messages or homework updates, help them designate specific times for these tasks. This practice improves focus and frees up more time for meaningful work or play.

Ideas for Kid-Friendly Batching:

• Homework Time: Create a set time for homework, where all assignments are completed in one go.
• Playtime: Let them know that after focused work time, they can have uninterrupted play or social time.

The Art of Balance

Mastering the day is about balancing structure and spontaneity, goals and daily habits. Each small step toward consistency builds confidence and sets the foundation for a brilliant future.

With thoughtful routines and a sense of purpose, you’re not just creating brilliant kids; you’re guiding them toward becoming well-rounded adults. To further support your journey, consider coaching with Sloan on one of her tailored coaching programs that can help you and your child thrive.

Unleashing Your Child’s Cognitive Potential

Hey brilliant parents, today I wanted to talk to you about the handwriting hack that’s changing lives and boosting brainpower. This is not anecdotal, it’s backed by science and real success stories, and this one thing is so easy to do. so let’s uncover the secrets behind this game-changing parenting strategy.

Meet Sarah and Emilio: A Success Story

Meet a wonderful mother we shall call Sarah, a brilliant parent like yourself, who was on a mission to give her son, Emilio, the best shot at success so she signed up to family coaching. Like any power parent, Sarah was all about wanting the best for her child, so Sarah asked me in one of our coaching sessions if I knew something simple but effective that she could implement immediately. I told her about the power of handwriting! Intrigued by the simplicity, Sarah decided to give it a whirl—and boy, did it pay off. The result wasn’t neat handwriting it was so much more!

The Science Unveiled: Why Handwriting Reigns Supreme

Recent studies, led by experts like Dr. Audrey van der Meer and Dr. Sophia Vinci-Booher, have peeled back the layers to reveal the profound cognitive benefits of handwriting.

When your child grips a pen and sets it to paper, their brain ignites with activity. It’s like a firework show of neural connections, lighting up regions responsible for memory, motor skills, and sensory processing. And the best part? This neural glow translates to tangible gains in learning and retention.

What Sets Handwriting Apart?

So, what sets handwriting apart from typing? It’s all about the sensory experience, folks. When your little one scribbles away, they’re not just forming letters—they’re engaging their senses, fine-tuning their motor skills, and giving their brain a workout like never before. From the tactile sensation of pen on paper to the visual feedback of ink flowing, every stroke stimulates neural pathways in a wondrous collection of cognitive engagement.

Putting Theory into Practice: How Sarah Nailed It

Okay, let’s talk real talk. Sarah didn’t just sit around talking to me about the benefits of handwriting, nor did she ask her son to practicing writing sentences and letters. Instead she took the golden nugget, put our actions plans into place and set to work implementing this in Emilio’s life.

Armed with a trusty pen and notebook, Sarah introduced Emilio to the wonderful world of journaling and storytelling. And guess what? Emilio was hooked! As he poured his thoughts onto paper, his brain was firing on all cylinders, making connections left, right, and centre. We then took the handwriting up a notch and his creativity was flowing with every word, every placement of the washi tape, every dinosaur sticker placed down. A wonderful synergy between paper and person began.

The Big Transformation: From Meh to Magnificent

Fast forward a few weeks, and Sarah noticed something amazing: Emilio was on fire! Not only was his memory sharper than ever, but her creativity was off the charts. By embracing the power of pen and paper, Emilio was unlocking his full potential and paving the way for a bright future. And the best part? It didn’t cost Sarah a fortune—just a pound for a pen and paper. Even taking it to the next level didn’t break the bank, a cute stationery set ranges from £5 to £15 and comes with washi tape, journalling paper, memo sheets and stickers. They are also great presents to give and/or ask for birthdays and holidays.

Exploring the Exciting World of Children’s Pens

As your child gets into stepping away from the tablet and getting back to the pen, you can of course be a little more adventurous with the types of pen you choose. When it comes to pens for children, the options are as diverse as their imaginations! Fine liners offer precision and control, perfect for intricate doodles and detailed drawings. Coloured pens bring a splash of creativity to the page, allowing kids to express themselves with vibrant hues and bold strokes. Scented pens add an extra element of fun, turning writing into a sensory experience that engages both the mind and the nose. Fountain pens and coloured ink provide a touch of elegance and sophistication, encouraging children to take pride in their writing and explore the beauty of calligraphy. And for the budding collectors, special edition and novelty pens offer a unique charm, turning everyday writing tools into cherished keepsakes. With such a variety to choose from, every child can find a pen that sparks their curiosity and fuels their creativity!

The Brainy Breakdown

Let’s delve deeper into why brilliant children should swap their laptops for notebooks and embrace the tactile experience of handwriting.

Recent studies, including one conducted by Audrey van der Meer and Ruud van der Weel at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), have uncovered compelling evidence supporting the superiority of handwriting over typing. By monitoring brain activity in students, they found that handwriting stimulates higher levels of electrical activity across various brain regions compared to typing. These regions, responsible for movement, sensory processing, and memory, light up like a spotlight on a stage when engaged in the intricate dance of penmanship.

The tactile experience of forming letters by hand engages multiple senses and motor functions simultaneously. Unlike the monotonous keystrokes of typing, handwriting requires intricate coordination between the eyes, hands, and brain. Each stroke of the pen activates neural pathways involved in motor planning and execution, reinforcing the connection between perception and action. This multi-sensory approach to learning not only enhances memory retention but also deepens conceptual understanding—a cognitive feat that typing struggles to replicate.

Handwriting Practice Encourages Self Expression

Moreover, handwriting offers a gateway to creativity and self-expression. Children who wield pens and pencils are not merely transcribing words—they are sculpting thoughts, shaping ideas, and imprinting their unique identity onto the page. As they navigate the intricate dance of letter formation, they forge a tangible connection with language, transforming abstract concepts into concrete realities.

Dr. Sophia Vinci-Booher, an expert in educational neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, underscores the transformative power of handwriting in childhood development. Her research highlights the critical role of fine motor activities in strengthening neural connections and fostering long-term learning. By engaging the motor system in the act of writing, children immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of sensory experiences, laying the foundation for cognitive growth and academic success.

Handwriting’s Biggest Predator And Children’s Declining Motor Skills

However, the rise of digital technology poses a formidable challenge to the primacy of handwriting in education. In a world where touchscreens reign supreme, children are increasingly deprived of the sensory-rich experience of penmanship. Dr. van der Meer warns of the consequences of this digital shift, citing alarming trends in children’s declining fine motor skills. Without regular practice in handwriting, children risk losing touch with a fundamental aspect of their cognitive development—a loss that could have far-reaching implications for their academic and personal growth.

Handwriting Needs To Be A Priority

As educators and parents grapple with the digital dilemma, the case for prioritising handwriting in childhood education becomes increasingly urgent. Handwriting lessons offer more than just an opportunity to master penmanship—they provide a holistic approach to learning that nurtures creativity, strengthens cognitive skills, and fosters a lifelong love for language and literature. If they aren’t doing this enough in school, then as a brilliant parent it is time to gently prize the technology from your child’s hands and replace it with a pen! Some removals of technology may be harder than others and I would love to hear comments about how this worked out for you, and positive stories to share with other parents how this simple hack is actually a genius move.

Empower Your Child’s Future

The handwriting hack isn’t just a fad—it’s a game-changer for unlocking your child’s cognitive potential. By embracing the power of pen and paper, you’re equipping your child with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. So go ahead, invest that quid in a pen and perhaps even splash out on a notebook too, and watch as your child’s brainpower soars to new heights!

*Less than £1: At the time of writing a Janrax 9×7″ Blue Exercise Book (80 Pages) was 47p and a Bic Biro was approximately 29p

Hey there, fellow parents! Are you pondering over which language would be the perfect fit for your brilliant child to study? At Creating Brilliant Kids, we understand the importance of helping you make informed decisions that will shape your children’s futures. So let’s begin this language-learning journey together.

Today I will be discussing the decision making behind language choice for your child and I will be giving you the top five language choices for your child and give you the we see chosen the most.

Step 1: Look At The Child Not The Language First

So many parent’s come to us, exhausted from having sat down surrounded by stacks of language textbooks, trying to decide which path their child should take and ending up no closer to a decision. It’s because they are looking at the language not the child. If you have been there and done that, fear not it happens to the best of us.

Here is the CBK way to guide you through this exciting yet daunting decision-making process:

Follow Their Passion

When it comes to choosing a language for your child to study, passion is key. Remember when little Emily couldn’t stop talking about her dream of visiting Paris? That’s your cue! Encourage your child to pursue their interests and let their passions be the compass that guides their language-learning journey. Whether it’s the allure of Spanish flamenco or the intrigue of Mandarin characters, fuel their curiosity and watch them soar!

Consider Future Opportunities

If your child is old enough get them to understand the benefits to avoid the age-old question: “But why do I need to learn another language?” Feel free to tell them the story about my friend Jack. Jack’s parents encouraged him to learn German, and boy, did it pay off! Fast forward a few years, and Jack found himself landing a dream job at a multinational company, all thanks to his language skills. We all know someone like Jack. You may even be like Jack yourself. Get your children to see the benefit of future opportunities that learning a new language can unlock for them and see if that sparks a discussion of what types of opportunities they feel drawn to. Who knows where their linguistic journey might lead?

Connect with Culture

Learning a language isn’t just about memorising vocabulary and conjugating verbs; it’s about immersing oneself in a whole new world of culture and traditions. Take it from Sarah, whose son James fell head over heels for Japanese anime. Inspired by his passion, Sarah enrolled James in Japanese classes, opening the door to a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and forging lifelong connections along the way. They had fun making sushi together, having Japanese tea ceremonies and much more. So, when choosing look to the bigger picture of choosing a language that resonates with your child’s interests and allows them to explore new horizons at the same time.

Embrace the Challenge

Let’s face it learning a new language can be challenging, but oh-so-rewarding! If you want your child to attempt a language that is very different to their own, you need to make sure that they are ready to embrace the challenge, knowing that every stumble and stumble is a stepping stone towards fluency. If this is not where they are at, then choosing a language with a different alphabet or characters may be too much of a hurdle for them. It is more important for them to love learning than the language itself, because without the love they won’t keep up the language. If they fail too many times and give up before they succeed, then they won’t look to learning a third language, which is the ultimate goal.

Step 2: Learn About The Languages From A Bigger Perspective

Choosing the perfect language for your brilliant child is a journey filled with endless possibilities and exciting discoveries, but every child is different and there is no one language that fits all.

Here is a little more information on the top 5 languages as chosen by us at CBK. We wold love to hear reasons for choosing other languages in the comments.

French

Bonjour! French, often dubbed the language of love, sophistication, and culinary delights, presents a tantalising gateway to a world of opportunities for aspiring linguists.

A Global Linguistic Landscape: French is not confined to the streets of Paris; it spans continents and cultures as the official language in 29 countries worldwide. These countries include France, Canada, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Monaco, and several African nations such as Senegal, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Madagascar, among others. From the romantic boulevards of France to the picturesque landscapes of Canada’s Quebec province and the vibrant cities of Africa, including Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Madagascar, French permeates diverse societies, enriching both daily life and global interactions.

A Thriving Linguistic Community: With approximately 300 million French speakers worldwide, the language forms a vibrant linguistic community encompassing native speakers, second language learners, and foreign language enthusiasts. This extensive network embraces cultural exchange, facilitates cross-border communication, and nurtures a shared appreciation for French art, literature, and my personal favourite french cuisine.

Unlocking International Opportunities: French’s status as one of the official languages of prestigious international organisations, including the United Nations, the European Union, and the International Olympic Committee, underscores its significance on the global stage. Proficiency in French opens doors to diplomatic engagements, cultural exchanges, and business ventures across continents, offering a competitive edge in today’s interconnected world.

Seamless Integration with British Culture: Despite its global reach, French seamlessly integrates with British culture, serving as a bridge between nations. Whether savouring a freshly baked croissant in a quaint Parisian café or negotiating business deals in the bustling markets of Francophone Africa, French enhances personal and professional experiences while leaving room for British cultural identity.

Embark on a Francophone Adventure: With its blend of elegance, diversity, and global significance, learning French invites aspiring linguists on an unforgettable journey of exploration and discovery. From mastering the language of Molière and Proust to immersing oneself in the vibrant tapestry of French culture, it is more than just a widely spoken language.

Spanish

Hola amigos! Spanish, known for its vibrancy and cultural richness, transcends borders and opens doors to a world of business opportunities for ambitious individuals.

Expanding Horizons Across 21 Countries: Spanish is not just a language; it’s a hot contender for our top language. It is spoken as the official language in 21 countries. From the lively streets of Spain to the bustling markets of Mexico and the serene landscapes of Argentina, Spanish permeates every facet of life across Central and South America, as well as in Equatorial Guinea in Africa. Additionally, the United States boasts a significant Spanish-speaking population, further solidifying the language’s global reach.

A Massive Linguistic Network: With over 460 million native speakers worldwide and millions more proficient in Spanish as a second language, the Spanish-speaking community forms a vast linguistic network spanning continents and cultures.

Unveiling Cultural Riches: Mastering Spanish opens children up to cultural riches, offering insights into the diverse heritage, traditions, and customs of Spanish-speaking countries. From flamenco dancing in Spain to tango performances in Argentina, the cultural tapestry woven through the Spanish language provides a unique perspective and appreciation for global diversity.

Opportunities in Business and Beyond: As the second most spoken language globally, Spanish proficiency is a valuable asset in the business world. From conducting negotiations and forging partnerships to engaging with clients and expanding market reach, fluency in Spanish enhances professional opportunities across various industries. Whether navigating international trade, exploring emerging markets, or tapping into the rich cultural landscape of Spanish-speaking countries, proficiency in Spanish empowers individuals to thrive in today’s interconnected global economy.

Seize the Spanish Advantage: In a world where connections are key, mastering Spanish offers a gateway to success, enriching both personal and professional endeavours with unparalleled cultural insights and endless opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Mandarin Chinese

Ni hao! With China’s booming economy and growing influence on the global stage, Mandarin Chinese is a language that holds immense promise for our aspiring world changers.

How Many Countries Speak Mandarin as a First or Second Language: Mandarin Chinese is spoken as the official language in one country, which is China. However, due to its significant global influence and the Chinese diaspora, Mandarin Chinese is spoken quite widely in Southeast Asia and other regions with Chinese communities. These countries include Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and others and although not the official language in these countries, it is often taught in schools as a second language.

How Many People Speak Mandarin: Mandarin Chinese boasts over 1.1 billion speakers worldwide, making it the most spoken language globally. While primarily spoken in China, Mandarin extends its reach across the globe.

The Opportunities for Use in Business: The significance of Mandarin in the business realm cannot be overstated. As China continues to solidify its position as a powerhouse in finance, technology, and trade, proficiency in Mandarin opens doors to lucrative business ventures and invaluable cultural insights. Whether negotiating deals, establishing partnerships, or navigating the complexities of international commerce, fluency in Mandarin positions individuals for success in today’s interconnected global marketplace.

Difficulty Rating: While the tonal nature of Mandarin may pose a challenge, the rewards are well worth the effort. From forging business partnerships to unlocking cultural insights, Mandarin opens many doors and emerges as a pivotal language for aspiring individuals seeking to make their mark on the world stage.

German

Hallo! Embracing Opportunities with German:

Guten tag! Germany, the land of innovation and efficiency, beckons our young language learners with its rich cultural heritage and economic prowess.

The Successful Six: German serves as the official language in six countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, and Belgium, forming the linguistic backbone of Central Europe. Beyond its official status, German is also spoken as a minority language in select regions of Italy, France, and other European nations, highlighting its cultural significance and linguistic diversity.

A Global Language of Influence: It may serve six main countries but is has approximately 90 million native speakers worldwide, making German a language that occupies a prominent position among influential languages, shaping industries in manufacturing, engineering, and beyond. Its importance in business, science, and culture transcends borders, offering our budding brilliant linguists unparalleled opportunities for professional advancement and cultural exchange.

Gateway to Thriving Industries: From engineering marvels in the heart of Berlin to innovative startups in Munich’s tech hub, proficiency in German opens doors to dynamic career paths for brilliant kids everywhere.

Cultural Exchanges with Neighbours: Whether exploring the historical landmarks of Vienna, savouring the culinary delights of Zurich, or embarking on Alpine adventures in Austria and Switzerland, proficiency in German enriches your child’s cultural experiences too.

Difficulty Rating: Despite its reputation for linguistic complexity, mastering German offers a journey of familiarity and discovery, with its similarities to English many say mastering German is a journey that feels like a walk in the park. From mastering grammatical nuances to immersing oneself in the works of Goethe and Kafka, embracing German promises a rewarding odyssey of personal growth and intellectual stimulation.

Arabic

Marhaba! Arabic, the language of intrigue and opportunity, beckons curious minds to explore its rich cultural heritage and geopolitical significance.

Geopolitical Significance: Arabic is spoken as the official language in 22 countries across the Middle East and North Africa, including nations such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates but also extending to Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen.

A Global Language of Influence:With over 310 million native speakers worldwide and widespread adoption as a second language, Arabic serves as a bridge connecting cultures and fostering global engagement.

Opportunities & Global Engagement: As the fifth most spoken language globally, Arabic opens doors to diverse career opportunities in diplomacy, international relations, and the energy sector. Its prevalence in diplomatic circles and international organisations underscores its geopolitical importance and relevance on the world stage.

Difficulty Rating: While mastering Arabic script may pose a challenge, the cultural immersion and global engagement it offers are invaluable assets for our brilliant kids. From exploring ancient historical sites to navigating bustling marketplaces, proficiency in Arabic opens doors to authentic cultural experiences and meaningful connections with Arabic-speaking communities worldwide.

The Best Language As Chosen By Us

In the end, the best language choice for your child is a personal decision that hinges on their interests, aspirations, and cultural connections. By considering the principles of choice architecture—preserving freedom of choice, incentivising learning, and making the process enjoyable—we can guide our children towards selecting a language that not only enriches their lives but also opens doors to a world of endless possibilities.

However if you really want a winner we have a tie. We chose Mandarin for the children who are drawn to learning new characters and tonal differences, and Spanish for everyone else.

Make it Fun and Interactive

Who says learning can’t be fun? Inject some excitement into your child’s language-learning journey with interactive games, cultural activities, and immersive experiences. From cooking up Spanish paella to exploring virtual reality worlds in Chinese, the possibilities are endless! By making language learning a fun and engaging adventure, you’ll ignite your child’s curiosity and set them on the path to success.

What Language Did You Want To Win?

What did you choose? Or are you still deciding. Below are a few more facts to help your decision to raise your brilliant multilingual marvel the Creating Brilliant Kids way.

Language Summaries:

French:

• Ideal for children seeking a European connection or considering immigration, offering opportunities for European passport acquisition.
• Suited for those aspiring to careers in international diplomacy, fashion, or gastronomy, where French proficiency is advantageous.
• Appeals to children passionate about exploring diverse cultures and landscapes in French-speaking countries, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.

Spanish:

• Perfect for children aiming to connect with vibrant Spanish-speaking cultures and broaden their horizons.
• Offers practical benefits for those with aspirations to travel, study, or work in Spain, Latin America, or the United States.
• Valuable for kids who recognise the widespread use of Spanish and its potential for enhancing career prospects on a global scale.

Mandarin Chinese:

• Ideal for children interested in China’s dynamic economy and its growing influence in global affairs.
• Provides opportunities for business, trade, or cultural exchange with Chinese-speaking communities worldwide.
• Appeals to kids intrigued by the challenge of mastering a language with a rich history and cultural heritage, opening doors to diverse opportunities.

German:

• Attractive for children drawn to Germany’s reputation for innovation, quality education, and high living standards.
• Offers pathways for higher education, career advancement, or cultural experiences in Germany and other German-speaking countries.
• Appreciated by kids for its practicality in Europe and its potential for accessing various industries and professional opportunities.

Arabic:

• Suited for children interested in the rich history, diverse cultures, and geopolitical significance of the Middle East.
• Provides pathways to careers in international relations, journalism, or humanitarian work in Arabic-speaking regions.
• Has great value as a language spoken across vast regions with significant economic, political, and cultural influence.

Although I love reading non fiction, my own personal journey often leads me beyond the confines of psychology books and research journals. It’s in these spaces that I’ve seen firsthand that life’s greatest lessons can come from unexpected places. And guess what? The novel “One Day” is like a goldmine of wisdom just waiting to be unearthed! With the new TV series out, I couldn’t help but dive into the heartfelt insights inspired by the lives of Emma and Dexter. These pearls of wisdom aren’t just about their story—they’re about shaping our journey as parents and nurturing brilliant minds and resilient spirits in our kids.

Cherishing The Journey

So, parenting… it’s like one wild rollercoaster ride, right? From those sleepless nights to the heartwarming milestones, it’s all part of the adventure we’re on with our little munchkins. Just like Emma and Dexter, we’re all on this journey of growth and discovery.

I take this book to be a reminder that there is a simple beauty in embracing the chaos that can come with parenthood and celebrating every little victory, no mater how small. Life to many, is made up of the day to day with a mix of big experiences, you know the ones you will never forget. Not necessarily because they were that amazing to anyone else but because they played all the right emotions in you and found permanent residence in your memory banks. In 50 years, looking back at your life you will have the values and beliefs from the day to day life you shared but those epic experiences like your first family camping trip together or your first time at a theme park, those will be memories that will last not just for you but for them too. Make sure to plan some epic experiences with your little ones, even one a year is 50 amazing memories to look back on in 50 years time.

An Authentic Approach

The next theme that is so abundant in ‘One Day’, is that of authenticity, well for the most part! Just like Emma and Dexter’s friendship, our relationships with our kids thrive on love, trust, and lots of laughter. Just as Emma and Dexter’s friendship blossomed on a bedrock of sincerity, our relationships with our children flourish in a similar manner. We have the ability to create an environment where our kids feel valued and understood, a place of safety and a home of acceptance where they can express themselves freely and authentically. Emma and Dexter chose that path, putting honesty forefront in their most important interactions. We too can choose the same path.

Embracing Present-Moment Parenting

However, life can get pretty hectic, huh? It is easy to get thrown off track. But in the midst of all the chaos, it’s those little moments that matter most. You know, like those impromptu kitchen dance parties or those lazy Sunday mornings spent making pancakes. Those are the moments that create memories that last a lifetime. So, even if we need a little practice on providing a safe haven for authenticity, we can at least choose to be fully present in the here and now feeling the love we put out there echoed back.

Nurturing Empathy and Understanding in Parenthood

But, love isn’t always smooth sailing, is it? Just ask Emma and Dexter! The journey of parenting mirrors the complex dynamics of love depicted by these two. But it’s okay that it’s not always a smooth ride, because love is also all about patience, sacrifice, and learning to compromise. We can use this lesson from ‘One Day’ to teach our kids that love is more than just a feeling—it’s a choice we make every single day. Emma & Dexter recommitted to their love in all situations. By encouraging empathy and understanding within our families, we’re not just strengthening our bonds, but we’re also raising emotionally intelligent kids who’ll navigate life with grace and compassion.

Encourage Pursuit of Dreams and Passions

Sometimes we need more than grace though, we need a good dose of grit to chase our dreams! Remember Emma’s journey to becoming a writer? Talk about determination! Despite facing challenges and jobs that didn’t fulfil her, Emma displayed unwavering determination and resilience in pursuit of being published. Dexter played a crucial role in supporting Emma’s writing aspirations. Despite their tumultuous relationship and his own struggles, Dexter consistently encouraged Emma to pursue her passion for writing. He provided emotional support by listening attentively to her ideas, offering constructive feedback, and cheering her on during moments of self-doubt. Additionally, Dexter demonstrated his belief in Emma’s talent by actively advocating for her work and providing practical assistance whenever possible, such as connecting her with opportunities in the publishing industry. Through his unwavering support, Dexter was her greatest ally in the pursuit of her dreams.

We can encourage our children to fearlessly chase their dreams, just as Emma did, allowing them to live in an environment where their passions are nurtured and celebrated. Just like Dexter, we have the option to provide our children with the tools and support they need to navigate the obstacles they may encounter, instilling in them the belief that with perseverance and dedication, they too can turn their dreams into reality.

Learn from Mistakes and Regrets Together

However, we know there will be mistakes along the way and Dexter was no stranger to mistakes! Delving deeper into the intricacies of Dexter’s character in “One Day,” we see those mistakes actually shape his journey towards self-discovery and redemption, serving as poignant reminders of the complexities of human nature. From his reckless pursuit of pleasure to his reluctance to commit to meaningful relationships, Dexter’s missteps lead him down paths fraught with regret and missed opportunities. However, it is through these challenges that Dexter learns invaluable lessons about the true essence of happiness and fulfilment. We can’t protect our children from all mistakes, nor should we, but we can encourage honest communication and vulnerability. By viewing mistakes as stepping stones towards personal and collective growth we can give our child a safety net to make mistakes and bounce back again.

The Beauty of Diverse Parenting Styles

Not all parent’s handle mistakes the same way and that’s OK. In Dexter’s relationship with his parents in “One Day,” contrasting dynamics emerge, highlighting the multifaceted nature of familial bonds. While his connection with his dad is marred by tension and discord, his relationship with his mum shines with unconditional love and unwavering support.

Despite Dexter’s rebellious tendencies and occasional missteps, his mum’s empathetic approach illuminates the transformative power of empathy and acceptance within family dynamics. Her unwavering support serves as a beacon of strength, guiding Dexter through life’s challenges and reinforcing the resilience he has within.

It is not until Dexter confronts the consequences of his actions, that his dad eventually steps forward to offer guidance and reconciliation, showcasing the potential for growth and redemption. Through shared experiences and mutual understanding, Dexter and his dad embark on a journey of healing and forgiveness, illustrating the enduring strength in that relationship.

Amidst the differing approaches of Dexter’s parents, there lies a beauty in the richness of their love and support. If your partner doesn’t parent exactly how you would provide space for them to develop their own relationship with their children, there is space for both ways to have their place.

Unveiling the Heartfelt Lessons of “One Day”

“One Day” isn’t just a story—it’s a treasure trove of heartfelt lessons that resonate deeply with us as parents. So, let’s embrace these insights wholeheartedly, knowing that they have the power to shape us into the brilliant parents our kids deserve. Here’s to raising kind, resilient, and endlessly brilliant kids who’ll one day change the world—one heartfelt lesson at a time. If you haven’t seen it yet, I wholeheartedly suggest giving yourself permission to binge watch this series! If you would like to catch the trailer see below or click here.

*photos and trailer courtesy of Netflix

https://youtu.be/WlopfWYGBh4?si=5owM8kJDsaxJLSPG