The media is full of horror stories of children being harmed. Is our world really such a dangerous place? How can you keep your daughter safe? These events hit the headlines because they are so unusual, yet they can give valuable examples of what you and your daughter should beware of.
The dangers are different at different ages: deep water when small, dark alleys when older, and then there are internet chat rooms. You can’t wrap your daughter in cotton wool to keep her safe. A parent’s job is to teach her how to assess risks and then manage them, to negotiate appropriate boundaries and to maintain good communication. From going to the shops alone to setting off on a Gap Year, your daughter needs your calm support, reassurance and guidance.
The internet is an amazing tool and an integral part of our children’s lives providing both new opportunities and new potential dangers. As a parent you will want to equip your daughter with...
Q. I’ve just discovered that my 11 year old daughter has set up her own Amazon account and has downloaded 2 books which are definitely something I don’t want her reading ! I’m not sure the best way to approa...
Q. My 14 year old daughter is extremely dependent on her Blackberry, which has a negative effect on family communications. How should I restrict her use of it without alienating her from her peers? A. This must be a prob...
Q. I have just discovered, (via a sneak look at her phone as I felt something was wrong) that my 12-year old daughter is secretly texting two boys whom I have never heard of. As far as I am aware she doesn’t even kn...
The popularity of social networking sites such as Facebook present both challenges and opportunties for parents. How can you keep track of the latest technologies and manage yourdaughter’s exposure to social media w...
Q. My daughter is aged 11 and I’ve been told the standard “everyone’s got it” line regarding Facebook access, but I am conscious that the Facebook minimum age is 13. I felt upset last week when I found...
How to make the most of Open Days – what to look for, what to ask …
Heads’ Tips – Open Days
Further information on where and when your chosen school’s Open Days are:
Forthcoming Open Days
Read our experts’ replies to those questions that every parent asks. Our “agony aunts” draw on their experience as parents, teachers and Heads to offer suggestions, explanations and solutions