1 March 2024
Dear Parents,
As we find ourselves fully immersed in the busyness of the academic year, I wanted to address an important topic crucial for the well-being and development of our children - managing their workloads.
Over the past few weeks, I have been quite amazed to witness the remarkable abilities of some of our older Clifton champions in juggling a variety of areas simultaneously. I see them participating in sports like cricket, pre-season rugby, club hockey, squash, and even golf, showcasing incredible dedication and commitment in making the most of every situation.
While it is undoubtedly commendable to see such enthusiasm and multitasking skills, it also prompts us to reflect on the delicate balance between maximizing opportunities and allowing our children the time and space to simply be children.
The benefits of a child participating in such extracurricular activities are vast and contribute significantly to a child's holistic development. They instill values such as discipline, teamwork, resilience, and grit while fostering a sense of passion and purpose. However, it's equally important to ensure that these activities do not inadvertently become overwhelming or have a negative impact on our children.
As parents, we play a crucial role in guiding our children toward a healthy balance. Here are a few suggestions to consider:
Open Communication: Foster open and honest communication with your child. Understand their interests, commitments, and any concerns they may have about managing their workload. I call these milkshake moments. Take your child out for a milkshake and just spend time with them.
Prioritisation: Help your child prioritise their commitments. Encourage them to identify their passions and focus on activities that bring them genuine joy and fulfillment.
Time Management: Teach the importance of effective time management. Setting realistic goals and establishing a routine can help create a structured approach to their responsibilities.
Downtime: Remind your child about the importance of downtime and relaxation. An opportunity to just be. I see so many children being dragged to social events of parents resulting in them being exhausted the next day.
Our primary objective is to witness our children thriving in every aspect of their lives, not just academically. We aspire for Clifton boys' and girls' to wholeheartedly engage in all the opportunities the school provides. This is why participation in non-school out-of-season sports should not hinder their ability to contribute effectively.
By collaboratively fostering an environment that encourages both achievement and well-being, we can ensure that our children develop into well-rounded individuals.
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to seeing our champions flourish in the upcoming months.
