Recently, we hosted two interactive parent workshops designed to support families in fostering curiosity and communication skills in their children. The sessions aimed to provide practical strategies for parents to use at home while also showcasing the learning opportunities available at BMH.
Science Workshop:
Sparking Curiosity Through Exploration
In our Science workshop, parents delved into the importance of nurturing curiosity—a key driver for scientific learning. The session began with a discussion on how parents can inspire their children to ask questions about the world around them.
Parents then became scientists themselves, engaging in two hands-on experiments:
•Chemical Reactions: Watching the bubbly reaction between vinegar and baking soda demonstrated how simple materials can be used to explain complex concepts.
•Static Electricity:Using balloons to create static electricity added a spark of fun, as parents discovered how science can feel magical.
The workshop concluded with a wealth of ideas for activities and resources to use at home, from conducting simple kitchen experiments to exploring the natural world. Parents left equipped to make science an engaging and regular part of their child’s routine.
English Workshop:
Developing Speaking and Listening Skills
In the English workshop, we explored how foundational speaking and listening skills support all aspects of language development. Parents learnt about their vital role in fostering effective communication by creating opportunities for children to talk and listen actively.
Through a series of interactive games and activities, parents practised techniques to build these skills in a fun, engaging way. For example, they played word association games and storytelling prompts designed to encourage creativity and dialogue.
To help parents support their children at home, we shared a range of practical tips, including:
•Creating a regular routine for meaningful daily conversations.
•Asking open-ended questions to encourage deeper thinking and expression.
•Engaging in fun speaking and listening games as part of family activities.
Parents also received a carefully curated set of resources to enhance their child’s speaking and listening skills. These included prompts to spark conversations, ideas for interactive games, and recommendations for online tools to make learning engaging and enjoyable.
Thank you to all who participated and made these workshops a success. Together, we can support our pupils in developing a lifelong love for science and communication.
