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The Parents’ Guide to Elementary School

Hi, I’m Natalie, your guide through the school system, and your partner in navigating it with confidence.

Support your child’s learning journey with real answers, expert insights, and approachable advice and strategies from someone who fosters academic growth and partnerships. That’s where I come in.

I offer clarity, context, and conversation through keynote speaking and workshops for schools, businesses, and parent groups.

Follow on Instagram, watch videos, and subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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I came in with little knowledge and feel more knowledgeable with immediate next steps- thank you!

Megan

I learned a lot about the magnet zones and its impact on applications. I had no idea about tracks. I walked away with a ton of new information to choose my child’s school.

Amanda

The Primary Focus Workshop is extremely informative. Natalie is engaging and answered all the questions we had. I highly recommend this workshop anyone trying to navigate schools in Charlotte.

Katy

We Cover Topics You’re Actually Worried About

Jul 19
What are Letter Boxes? Phonics series #2

What are Letter Boxes? Phonics series #2

With a little nudge, any new speller can sound out the word pen ✍️ Elkonin Letter Boxes are a tool used to spell CVC words (consonant vowel consonant). They are a tool used to break down the sounds in a word.
2 min read
Jul 18
How I Teach Spelling - Using Elkonin Letter Boxes to teach your child to spell

How I Teach Spelling — Using Elkonin Letter Boxes to Teach Your Child to Spell

Learn how Elkonin Letter Boxes help kids master spelling by breaking words into sounds. This hands-on phonics strategy builds confidence and strong literacy skills. Discover step-by-step tips on PrimaryFocus.tv to support your child's reading and spelling journey.
3 min read
Jul 12
Let's talk phonics... #1

Let's talk phonics... #1

Over the next 5 weeks I'll share a series on phonics- here's the first one. Phonics simply means the method used to teach reading and writing. It's for languages with an alphabet- like English and it's not for the faint of heart.
2 min read
Jun 28
A new beginning

A new beginning

I resigned: Until recently, I thought I would teach for my entire career. I felt sad and defeated as I packed up my classroom, but I knew "it's about damn time."
2 min read
Jun 23
I resigned from teaching...a message from a teacher's broken heart

I resigned from teaching...a message from a teacher's broken heart

I resigned. Before I say another word, I need you to know that I love teaching. I feel like I
3 min read
Jun 21
No more negotiating!

No more negotiating!

As the adults in the room, we are the ones who have to teach kids when to stop trying and accept no for an answer.
1 min read
Jun 14
Summer Slide

Summer Slide

During those hot summer days, all your child's progress this year could be drifting away
2 min read
May 15
2022 TOP 3 End of Year Teacher Gift Ideas - Easy Teacher Gifts for Summer

2022 TOP 3 End of Year Teacher Gift Ideas - Easy Teacher Gifts for Summer

Amazon affiliate links: * Drink dispenser: https://amzn.to/3w2chu5 * Cooler: https://amzn.to/3FCUQUe * Beach bag: https://amzn.to/3wil8Io
1 min read
Apr 26
Are All Flamingos Pink? | All About Flamingos for Kids

Are All Flamingos Pink? | All About Flamingos for Kids

Miss Natalie shares facts about flamingos. This video is perfect for preschool, kindergarten, first grade, and second grade, third grade,
1 min read
Mar 29
The Main Idea Song

The Main Idea Song

This is a sample lesson, teaching main idea and details to kindergarten & first grade This video show how I
1 min read
Mar 20
The Panther's Shadowy Secret | All About Panthers for Kids

The Panther's Shadowy Secret | All About Panthers for Kids

Miss Natalie shares facts about panthers and the surprising answers to which is stronger: panthers, leopards, or jaguars? This video
1 min read
Mar 01
Kindergarten Math Lesson: Addition, Subtraction, Equals Symbol

Kindergarten Math Lesson: Addition, Subtraction, Equals Symbol

This video is from a math vocabulary lesson explaining addition, plus sign, subtraction, minus sign, and equal sign. I show
1 min read

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