The Fessy Den Blog

Character Education in the Age of ‘Selfies’: Why Core Values Matter

Character in the Age of Selfies

Independent or private schools have a distinct advantage over public schools in at least one key area of curriculum: character education. Character education is an intentional and purposeful focus on helping children develop positive qualities and values. It’s about encouraging them to do the right thing even when no one is looking. While the definition of the...
Read More

The 10 Things Every Pre-K Teacher Wants Parents to Know

10 Things Pre-K Teachers Want Parents to Know

1. He’s capable of so many things. As a parent of a Pre-K boy, you may sometimes feel you’re caught between toddlerhood and boyhood. You provide for your son, and you provide well. But it’s important to remember how much he is capable of, and what he’ll show you if you let him. We strive to do...
Read More

3 Signs Your Child is Thriving in Junior Boarding School

Any parent of a child in boarding school can attest to this fact: You don’t stop worrying about him, even after the admissions and enrollment processes are complete. (Does any parent ever stop worrying about his or her child?) There are dozens of benefits to boarding school, and you’ve made your decision, in part, by...
Read More

Is Your Child Overscheduled?

It goes without saying that participating in after-school programming is good for children. Playing a musical instrument broadens brain development, engaging in athletics teaches teamwork and sportsmanship, and joining clubs can foster new friendships and adventures. Children are often given a broad range of activities from which to choose, and the temptation for parents is...
Read More

What Teachers Learn from Students

Any teacher worth his or her salt can tell you stories about inspirational students–and there’s something special about the independent school experience that creates these inspirational moments on a regular basis. Perhaps it’s because so many independent schools place a special emphasis on values. Whether they call it ethics, character education, or something else entirely,...
Read More