Parenting Blog

The Middle School Transition: Why Grade 6 Math Is the Foundation Year for High School Success

System Admin2026-07-07T15:20:49-04:00 Grade 6 is often where math starts asking more of students. Students start facing longer questions and are expected to show the steps behind their answers, not just write down the result. For many parents, that change becomes clear in homework, quizzes, and the kind...

Helping Your Child With French Immersion Homework (Even if You Don’t Speak French)

System Admin2026-05-20T23:54:41-04:00 French immersion homework can feel stressful for parents, especially when they don’t speak French themselves. At Popular Book Company, we know many families want to support their child at home but aren’t always sure where to begin. That uncertainty is common in the early grades,...

Standardized Testing in Canada: How to Prepare Your Child for EQAO

System Admin2026-05-20T23:44:06-04:00 EQAO can raise a lot of questions for families. Many parents want to help but aren't sure how much preparation is helpful or how to support their child without adding stress. In Ontario, EQAO assesses reading, writing, and math at key grade levels, so the...

The Benefits of Digital Learning Tools for Elementary Students

System Admin2025-10-28T11:27:35-04:00 In today’s fast-paced digital world, technology has transformed the way children learn. For parents of elementary-grade students, digital learning tools are no longer just an option — they’ve become an essential part of helping children develop strong academic foundations, confidence, and a genuine love for...

Fun Educational Activities for the Summer

System Admin2026-02-04T01:30:44-05:00 Make Summer Count: Fun Educational Activities for Kids (Pre-K to Grade 8) Summer is a time for sunshine, freedom, and family memories—but it’s also a great opportunity to keep young minds active and growing. As moms, we all want our kids to enjoy their break while...

Dealing with Report Cards: A Guide to Handling the Results

System Admin2025-10-28T11:21:57-04:00 As a parent, receiving your child’s report card can stir up a mix of emotions. Whether it’s excitement, pride, or anxiety, report cards are often seen as a reflection of your child’s academic performance. But how you handle the results is crucial in shaping your...

Understanding the Math Curriculum in Canada: A Complete Parent’s Guide

System Admin2025-10-28T11:15:07-04:00 As a parent, it’s important to understand the structure and content of the math curriculum your child is learning. The math curriculum in Canada is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in mathematical concepts while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Here’s a...

10 Fun Activities to Support Your Child with the Grade 1 Math Curriculum

System Admin2025-12-02T02:00:13-05:00 Grade 1 is an exciting year for young learners, as they begin to explore new concepts in math. As a parent or caregiver, you can play a vital role in reinforcing what your child learns in school. Below are 10 fun and interactive activities that...

Changes to the Ontario Language Curriculum

System Admin2025-10-28T11:19:38-04:00 In September 2023, students across Ontario will begin the new Language Curriculum.  The last curriculum introduced was in 2006 and referenced things like cds and dvds.  This curriculum was almost 20 years old, and an updated curriculum was inevitable. But what are some of the...

What are Loose Parts?

System Admin2025-10-28T11:03:57-04:00 The theory of loose parts was created by architect Simon Nicholson in 1971. He saw the power of play and inspiring creativity at a young age. According to Penn State Extension, the definition of loose parts is: “materials that can be moved, carried, combined, redesigned,...