The focus of many parents in Botswana is on getting their children through school. Those parents that choose to take their kids to private schools – are regularly faced with the daunting challenge of keeping up with the ever increasing fees. A ‘top tier’ private school in Gaborone for primary education will set you back a massive BWP 90k per year (excluding development fees) per child. Whilst a ‘mid tier’ private school will cost approximately BWP 45-50k per a year.
But what else can parents do for the development of their children? Beyond the school fees, parents need to be aware of several other very important factors that are essential to help children excel in life:
- Emotional Support and Stability: Providing a loving and supportive environment helps children feel secure and valued, fostering confidence and resilience. Emotional stability is key for their mental well-being.
- Positive Role Models: Parents and caregivers serve as the first role models, influencing children’s behavior, values, and attitudes. Demonstrating positive behaviors such as problem-solving, empathy, and respect contributes to healthy development.
- Open Communication: Encouraging open and honest communication builds trust. When children feel they can express their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment, they develop strong communication skills and emotional intelligence.
- Physical Health and Well-being: Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular sleep are essential for physical and mental growth. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, enabling children to focus, learn, and engage in daily activities.
- Social Interaction and Skills: Encouraging children to interact with peers and adults helps them develop social skills, empathy, and the ability to collaborate. Socializing with others also builds their emotional intelligence and resilience.
- Encouraging Independence and Responsibility: Allowing children to make decisions and face consequences in a supportive environment helps them develop critical thinking skills, a sense of responsibility, and confidence in their abilities.
- Setting Boundaries and Consistency: Clear expectations and consistent rules give children a sense of structure, safety, and understanding of right and wrong. This builds self-discipline and respect for others.
- Exposure to a Variety of Experiences: Providing children with a range of experiences—whether cultural, artistic, athletic, or intellectual—broadens their horizons and fosters creativity, curiosity, and adaptability.
- Encouragement and Praise: Recognizing effort and progress, not just achievement, helps children develop a growth mindset. Encouragement builds their self-esteem and motivates them to continue learning and growing.
When these factors are nurtured consistently, children are better equipped to develop into well-rounded, capable, and confident individuals.
