parenting
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Parent-Teacher Conference Guide for YCDSB Parents in Markham: Questions That Matter Most
As a parent with a child in the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB), I’ve learned that those short 10-minute parent-teacher conferences can reveal more than a report card ever could. In most Markham Catholic schools, these brief meetings are a window into how our children learn, how they connect with others, and how we can best support them…
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First Year in Kindergarten: What I Wish I Knew (A Parent’s Guide for YCDSB Families)
Starting Kindergarten is a huge milestone — for children and parents alike. As a parent in the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB), I went through all the excitement, worries, and lessons of that very first school year. Looking back, there are many things I wish I knew before my child’s first day. This guide…
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How to Prepare for a Successful Transition Meeting: A Parent’s Guide for Grade One and Beyond (YCDSB)
By Yan Zhou – SEAC Member, Parent, and Advocate for Exceptional Learners Introduction Transition meetings play a vital role in supporting students as they move from Kindergarten to Grade One or shift between programs or classrooms within the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). For students with exceptionalities, these meetings are especially important to ensure…
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My Experience as a Parent Observing Spirit of Math: A Gifted Child’s Journey in Math Enrichment
Introduction As a parent of a gifted child in York Region, I’m always searching for programs that can truly challenge and support his learning. When my son was about to enter Grade 1, we decided to enroll him in Spirit of Math, one of Canada’s most recognized after-school math enrichment programs for high-performing students. What made the experience…
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Raising Twice-Exceptional (2e) Children: A Parent’s Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Strengths and Supporting Struggles
Raising a twice-exceptional (2e) child — someone who is gifted and also has learning differences — is a complex, often misunderstood parenting journey. These children are intellectually advanced but may also struggle with ADHD, autism, anxiety, dyslexia, or other diagnoses. While their potential is immense, it often comes wrapped in layers of social, emotional, and…
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A Parent’s Roadmap: What to Do If You Suspect or Have a Diagnosis for Your Child’s Special Needs
If you suspect your child has special needs or they have already been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, a learning disability, speech delay, or another developmental challenge, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Navigating school-based support, psychoeducational assessments, IEPs (Individual Education Plans), and advocacy can be complicated, but the earlier you take action, the better the outcomes for your…
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Why Parents Are Not Engaging in Some Schools: Understanding the Barriers & Solutions
Parental involvement is essential for school success, yet some schools struggle to get parents engaged in school councils, volunteer programs, and decision-making. Many Catholic School Councils (CSC) and school-led initiatives lack support, making it difficult to implement new programs, organize fundraising, or advocate for better school resources. So why do some schools have strong parent engagement, while others struggle to find…
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Honored to Receive the Markham–Unionville Achievement Award from MP Paul Chiang
I’m incredibly honored to receive the Markham–Unionville Achievement Award from MP Paul Chiang, recognizing my contributions to education advocacy, community service, and civic engagement. This award means a lot to me—not just as a personal achievement, but as a reflection of the work we can accomplish when we come together to make a difference. From the beginning, I’ve always…
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How to Support Homework Without Stress: A Guide for YCDSB Parents
📌 Homework can be overwhelming for students and parents, but with the right approach, it can become a positive and productive experience. A structured routine, effective study strategies, and the right level of support can help students develop independent learning skills while reducing stress. This guide provides YCDSB parents with practical strategies to create a stress-free…
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High School Transition Guide for YCDSB Parents & Students
📌 Transitioning from elementary to high school is a big step for students and parents. This guide provides practical tips, key information, and important resources to help students adjust to their new learning environment and succeed in their first year of high school at YCDSB. 📍 What to Expect in High School ✔ New Learning Environment – Larger schools, multiple…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 