Our friends are some of the most important people in our lives. They’re the ones who lift us up when we’re down, celebrate our successes and help us make sense of the world. Spending time with friends should leave us feeling like we belong and bring out the best in us. Friendships offer a support …
The late fantasy novel author Terry Pratchett, who also wrote The Unadulterated Cat, a wry-yet-loving look at the many different faces of cats, wrote: ‘In ancient times, cats were worshipped as gods. They have not forgotten this.’ Pratchett, who passed away in 2015 with his own cat sleeping beside him on the bed, was touching …
We all struggle to get certain things done. Do you hate unloading the dishwasher or always put off doing your homework? Or maybe you dread cleaning out a rabbit hutch or leave getting your school bag ready until the very last minute. But whatever it is that you put off doing, there’s a trick that …
From finding your way around to getting into the swing of a hectic timetable, starting a new school takes time and energy. There’s a lot to get used to and you might feel a little lost for a couple of weeks, but at least you know that pretty much everyone’s in the same boat. Think …
How do you respond when a teacher, coach or parent credits you for doing something well? Receiving praise can be lovely, but it might also make you feel shy or embarrassed at being singled out. What about when someone says you need to improve? It’s natural to feel uncomfortable when you receive homework from a …
Should you go swimming when you’re on your period? There’s no denying that swimming when you’re on your period can be a little nerve-racking. Whether you’re plunging into the sea on holiday, joining in the fun at a pool party or simply doing your usual swimming session, it’s normal to feel a bit bloated, worried …
With competition comes the possibility of losing. And, let’s face it, no one likes to lose, whether it’s at a board game or a sports match. But why does losing sting so much and how can it be handled better? Why losing is frustrating Picture this. You’ve just lost the final match of the football …
Why are we so concerned about other people’s opinions of us? Do you sometimes worry about what other people think of you? Maybe you’re concerned about whether you’re wearing the right outfit or anxious that you’ll say something silly during an outing or at a party. Perhaps you tend to fret over what friends might …
Read moreWhy you should stop worrying about what other people think of you
What are the health benefits of the shoelace yoga pose? This pose supports hip mobility, works the muscles in the lower back, glutes and legs and stimulates the gallbladder and kidneys. It also helps to calm the mind. How to do the shoelace yoga pose Sit upright with your back straight and tall, your hips …
How oracy skills need to be developed and practised Alice Stott is director of programmes for Voice 21, the UK’s national charity for championing these skills. She says: ‘The art of speaking and listening, otherwise known as oracy, is made up of a set of skills which need to be explicitly taught and regularly practised.’ …
