Duduza – Aftercare owner Lalla Sekabate said the transition into Grade One marks an important milestone in a child’s life and can be both exciting and overwhelming for parents new to the schooling phase.
“As an aftercare programme owner in Duduza, I work closely with young learners and their families, and I have seen how strong parental involvement can positively shape a child’s confidence and academic journey.
“Grade One is not only about learning to read, write, and count, but also about helping children adapt to structure, responsibility, and social interaction within a school environment,” she explained.
Sekabate highlighted that children thrive when there is a consistent daily routine, noting that setting regular times for homework, meals, play, and bedtime helps learners feel secure and focused.
“Even short, consistent study sessions make a difference, while adequate rest ensures children are alert and ready to learn the next day.
“Learning at home does not require expensive resources, but requires a quiet space with minimal distractions enough to support concentration.
“Parents can make learning enjoyable by using everyday items such as bottle tops for counting or songs and rhymes for spelling, as children at this stage learn best through play,” she added.
She noted that reading remains the foundation of all learning and should be encouraged daily, even for just a few minutes.
She advised parents to read with their children, talk about pictures, ask simple questions, and allow the child to tell the story in their own words.
“At this stage, reading should never be rushed or forced, as confidence is more important than speed.
“Encouraging children to try tasks on their own builds independence and self-belief.
“Simple responsibilities such as packing a school bag, holding a pencil correctly, and attempting homework before asking for help teach children accountability and resilience.
“Strong communication between parents and teachers plays a vital role in a child’s success,” she said.
She further cited that checking homework books regularly, attending meetings, and seeking clarity when instructions are unclear help create a united support system for the learner.
Sekabate added that emotional support is equally important, as Grade One learners are still adjusting to formal schooling.
Lalla Sekabate provides educational advice. Photo: Lalla Sekabate
“Parents should be attentive to mood changes, anxiety, or reluctance to attend school and create safe spaces for children to express their feelings.
“Teaching respect, listening skills, patience, and good manners supports both academic and social development.
“While technology can be useful, excessive screen time can affect concentration and behaviour,” stated Sekabate.
She urged parents to set clear boundaries and promote a healthy balance between screen use, physical activity, reading, and rest.
ALSO READ: How Palesa Radinne is transforming children’s confidence one braid at a time
Sekabate also emphasised that parents do not need to be perfect or highly educated to support their children’s learning.
“Love, consistency, encouragement, and involvement are the most powerful tools in building a strong educational foundation.
“Every child learns at their own pace, and all progress, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated,” Sekabate said.
With patience, structure, and cooperation between home and school, parents can help their children grow into confident, resilient learners with a lifelong love for learning.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!