Easy Morning Routines to Avoid the School Run Rush
Is your morning routine a chaotic mix of toast-flinging, sock-hunting and missing school shoes? You are not alone. Here is how to reclaim your mornings and start the school day stress-free. Prepare the Night Before Pack bags Lay out clothes Fill water bottles and prep lunchboxes A 15-minute prep the night before can save 30 […]
Less Scrolling, More Living: Managing Screen Time at Home
In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere, from homework apps to YouTube to gaming consoles. For parents, managing screen time can feel like walking a tightrope between tech benefits and screen overload. So how do you set rules that actually work? Be Clear and Consistent Set daily or weekly screen time limits. For example: Weekdays: […]
What Questions to Ask at Your Child’s Parent Evening
Parent-teacher meetings are more than just a routine check-in. They are a powerful opportunity to connect with the people who spend a large portion of the day with your child. These short conversations can help you gain insight into your child’s academic progress, social development, emotional wellbeing, and how best to support them at home. […]
Affordable Weekend Outings and Activities for Families
Fun and Affordable Weekend Ideas for Families You do not have to spend a fortune to have memorable weekends with your kids.Here are some fun and affordable outing ideas that work for most South African families: Explore Local Nature Reserves Many cities have municipal nature reserves with minimal or no entry fees. Think Johannesburg Botanical […]
Back-to-School Costs: Practical Tips for Parents
Back-to-School Costs: Practical Tips for Parents The financial strain of back-to-school expenses can be overwhelming for parents. Planning ahead is crucial to managing these expenses effectively. Here are some tips from Genevieve Allen, founder of Club Engage, S.A’s largest provider of on-site aftercare and holiday care services: 1. Take a Holistic View of Your Child’s […]
Helping Kids Transition from Holidays to School Mode
The long holidays are a cherished time for families, filled with relaxation, adventures, and much-needed downtime. However, as the new school term looms, parents and kids may find the transition back into a structured routine a bit challenging. To help make this shift smoother, here are some practical tips to prepare your children for school […]
Creating a Homework-Friendly Environment at Home
At Club Engage, we offer homework supervision during the afternoons at our aftercare programmes However, sometimes children will need to study and complete some homework at home. We have put together some practical tips to help you create a productive and stress-free homework environment at home. Choose the Right Space Start by identifying a quiet, […]
Our top Lunch box Ideas for a Nutritious Start To The School Year
Packing a healthy lunch box doesn’t have to be complicated. A balanced meal can keep your child energized and focused throughout the school day. Check school rules about lunch items (e.g., no nuts). Pack balanced meals with carbs, protein, and fruits/veggies. Involve your child by letting them choose or plan the week’s menu from a […]
Au pair or a trusted after-school care programme?
The attraction and benefits, for parents to employ au-pairs, are many. The flexibility, the perception of customised personal attention that is easily adjustable, the familiarity of someone who is from your neighbourhood and matches your family’s ethos and status in close contact with your children, relatively cost-effective as au pairs combine both driving and care […]
South Africa School Calendars for 2026 and 2027: What Parents Need to Know
Our School Calendars for 2026 are out for download, click here to grab yours! Planning ahead for your child’s school year? The Department of Basic Education has shared the school calendars for 2026 and 2027. This helps parents prepare for the year ahead with all the important dates for school terms and holidays. At Club Engage, […]
