For young learners, education is most effective when it feels natural and engaging. At Verbum Dei Academy, the nursery and primary section of Verbum Dei Schools, pupils are encouraged to learn not just from books and lessons, but also through play and exploration. This approach transforms learning from a routine task into an exciting adventure where children actively discover the world around them.

Why Play Matters in Learning

1. Hands-On Learning
   Play allows children to experience concepts physically. For example, stacking blocks is not just fun but also teaches balance, measurement, and problem-solving.
2. Encouraging Curiosity
   Children are naturally curious. Play gives them a safe and structured way to ask questions, test ideas, and explore new possibilities.
3. Developing Social Skills
   Through group play, pupils learn how to share, take turns, and resolve conflicts — vital skills for their personal and academic lives.
4. Boosting Confidence
   Play gives children opportunities to try, fail, and try again. Every small success helps build resilience and confidence.

Exploration as a Tool for Growth

At Verbum Dei Academy, exploration is seen as learning in action. Teachers encourage pupils to:

• Ask Questions – Every “why” and “how” leads to deeper understanding.
• Experiment – Simple science experiments or creative art projects turn abstract concepts into practical lessons.
• Discover Outdoors – Nature walks, gardening, and outdoor observations help pupils connect their classroom knowledge to real life.

How Verbum Dei Academy Integrates Play and Exploration

1. Interactive Classrooms
   Lessons are designed to include play-based activities — from role-playing stories to using toys and games for mathematics and literacy practice.
2. Creative Arts and Crafts
   Pupils explore their imaginations through drawing, painting, and crafts, which build fine motor skills and encourage creativity.
3. STEM-Inspired Exploration
   Even at an early age, children are introduced to problem-solving and logical thinking through puzzles, building sets, and hands-on experiments.
4. Playgrounds as Learning Spaces
   The school playground is more than just a place for fun — it’s a space where pupils learn teamwork, resilience, and healthy competition.

The Benefits for Pupils

The combination of play and exploration at Verbum Dei Academy ensures that children:

• Stay engaged and motivated in their studies.
• Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills naturally.
• Form strong social bonds that support their emotional well-being.
• Build a love for learning that lasts well into their higher education.

Conclusion

At Verbum Dei Academy, play is not a break from learning — it is an essential part of it. By weaving exploration into daily activities, the Academy nurtures curious, creative, and confident pupils. This foundation ensures that when children progress to higher classes, they carry with them not just knowledge, but also the joy of discovery.

Because at Verbum Dei, education is not about memorizing facts — it’s about learning to love learning itself.

Introduction

Discipline is one of the most important life skills a child can learn. It goes beyond following rules—it teaches self-control, responsibility, and respect for others. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, discipline is considered a core value that shapes both academic and personal growth.

However, discipline cannot be left to schools alone. The strongest results come when parents and teachers work together, reinforcing the same principles both at home and in the classroom.

Why Discipline Matters in a Child’s Development

Children who grow up with discipline are more likely to:

• Stay focused on academics
• Respect authority and peers
• Develop healthy habits and routines
• Build resilience against distractions and temptations
• Become reliable and trustworthy adults

At Verbum Dei schools, discipline is tied to character formation, ensuring that students excel not only in studies but also in values and personal conduct.

How Parents Can Teach Discipline at Home

1. Set Clear Expectations

Children need to understand what is expected of them. Whether it’s finishing homework before playtime or helping with chores, clarity prevents confusion.

2. Be Consistent with Rules

Consistency is key. If bedtime is set at 9 p.m., it should remain steady. Changing rules frequently makes children less likely to take them seriously.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Discipline does not mean punishment. Praising children when they follow rules motivates them more than constant criticism.

4. Lead by Example

Parents who demonstrate discipline in their daily lives—keeping to schedules, fulfilling promises, staying organized—naturally encourage children to do the same.

5. Allow Natural Consequences

Instead of always rescuing children from the results of poor decisions, let them experience the consequences. For example, forgetting homework means facing the teacher’s feedback the next day.

6. Balance Firmness with Love

Discipline should never feel harsh or unfair. Children respond better when discipline is paired with care and respect.

How Verbum Dei Schools Reinforce Discipline

At both Verbum Dei Academy and International College, discipline is woven into school life:

• Structured Daily Routines – Students follow timetables that instill punctuality and order.
• Classroom Rules – Respect and focus are emphasized during lessons.
• Leadership Roles – Prefects and class leaders model discipline for others.
• Guidance and Counseling – Students are taught to reflect on behavior and make better choices.

This school-home partnership ensures children understand that discipline is not just about rules but about becoming better versions of themselves.

Common Challenges Parents Face (and Solutions)

• Children Resist Rules – Involve them in setting simple guidelines. This creates a sense of ownership.
• Too Many Distractions – Limit screen time and encourage productive activities.
• Inconsistent Parenting – Agree on rules as a family so children don’t get mixed signals.
• Overly Harsh Discipline – Replace yelling or threats with calm explanations and firm boundaries.

Real-Life Example

One Verbum Dei Academy parent shared how her son used to procrastinate with homework, leading to rushed mornings. By setting a clear rule—homework must be done before dinner—and rewarding consistency with extra playtime, he gradually developed self-discipline. Teachers later noticed improved time management and class performance.

Long-Term Benefits of Discipline

Children raised with strong discipline grow into:

• Responsible and reliable adults
• Focused students who achieve academic excellence
• Individuals with strong moral character
• Leaders who inspire respect and trust

This mirrors Verbum Dei’s vision of producing students who succeed in both academics and personal life.

Conclusion

Teaching discipline at home is not about strict rules—it’s about preparing children for life. When parents and schools like Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College work hand-in-hand, children develop into disciplined, respectful, and capable individuals who can handle life’s challenges with maturity.

Discipline is the bridge between goals and achievement—at home and at school.

Introduction

Confidence and self-esteem are two of the most important qualities a child can develop. They shape how children see themselves, how they interact with others, and how they face challenges in school and life. At Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, we believe education goes beyond academics—it’s also about building character and self-belief.

While schools play a vital role, parents are the first and most consistent influence in shaping their children’s confidence. This article explores practical ways parents can nurture self-esteem at home while working hand-in-hand with Verbum Dei teachers.

Why Confidence and Self-Esteem Matter in Children

A confident child is more likely to:

• Take risks in learning without fear of failure
• Build healthy friendships
• Speak up in class and express ideas
• Show resilience in the face of challenges
• Develop leadership qualities

On the other hand, low self-esteem can lead to shyness, self-doubt, reluctance to participate, or even behavioral issues. That’s why Verbum Dei schools prioritize affirmation, encouragement, and opportunities for growth in every stage of learning.

How Parents Can Build Confidence at Home

1. Show Unconditional Love and Acceptance

Children thrive when they feel valued for who they are, not just for their achievements. Regular words of encouragement and affection reassure children that they are loved, even when they make mistakes.

2. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results

Instead of focusing only on grades, acknowledge the hard work your child puts into assignments. At Verbum Dei, teachers often reward effort as much as achievement, reinforcing the idea that growth comes through persistence.

3. Encourage Independence

Allow children to make age-appropriate choices—what clothes to wear, how to arrange their study desk, or how to approach homework. Independence builds decision-making skills and self-trust.

4. Teach Problem-Solving Skills

When challenges arise, resist the urge to immediately solve them for your child. Guide them through possible solutions. For instance, if a homework question is tough, ask: “What do you think is the first step?” This boosts confidence in their own thinking.

5. Be a Role Model

Children mirror their parents. Displaying confidence, resilience, and positive self-talk in your own life sets a powerful example.

6. Provide Opportunities for Success

Encourage activities where your child can excel, whether in sports, arts, or academics. Small wins build momentum toward greater confidence.

How Verbum Dei Schools Foster Confidence in Students

Both Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College integrate confidence-building into their daily practices:

• Public Speaking & Presentations – Students are given opportunities to present ideas in class.
• Clubs and Extracurriculars – From sports to debate, children showcase talents outside academics.
• Leadership Roles – Prefects and class monitors are trained to lead peers with courage.
• Encouragement from Teachers – Teachers provide constructive feedback, highlighting strengths while guiding improvements.

This partnership between school and home ensures children see themselves as capable, valued, and empowered.

Real-Life Example

A parent of a Verbum Dei International College student shared how her son used to be shy and hesitant to participate in group work. With encouragement from teachers and consistent support at home—celebrating small achievements like answering one question in class—his confidence grew. Today, he takes part in debates and even volunteers to lead group projects.

Long-Term Benefits of Building Confidence Early

Children raised with strong confidence and self-esteem are more likely to become:

• Independent thinkers
• Resilient in handling challenges
• Effective communicators
• Compassionate leaders
• Adults who believe in their potential

These are exactly the kind of future-ready individuals Verbum Dei aims to nurture.

Conclusion

Confidence and self-esteem are gifts parents can give their children that last a lifetime. By working together with Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College, parents can ensure their children grow into resilient, capable, and self-assured individuals ready to face the world.

When children believe in themselves, there is no limit to what they can achieve.