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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

Dec 04
The 6 Most Banned Kids’ Books – Can You Guess Why? | Top Banned Children's Books 2024

The 6 Most Banned Kids’ Books – Can You Guess Why? | Top Banned Children's Books 2024

Think you can guess the most banned books? 🤔 These 6 children’s books have been pulled from school and library
16 min read
Nov 27
Why Every Grandparent Should Read to Their Grandchildren

Why Every Grandparent Should Read to Their Grandchildren

Reading to grandchildren builds lasting bonds while boosting their learning. Discover how this simple activity creates connections and supports early literacy.
4 min read
Nov 20
Simplify Spelling Practice with Free Elkonin Sound Boxes!

Simplify Spelling Practice with Free Elkonin Sound Boxes!

📦 Simplify spelling practice with Elkonin Sound Boxes! A free tool that grows with your child’s skills. Download now and start today!
22 min read
Nov 18
Great Books for 3 year olds: Gift Guide

Great Books for 3 year olds: Gift Guide

Need a gift for a three year old? These books are must-haves in every three year old's library!
3 min read
Oct 31
Interview: Mo Green for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction

Interview: Mo Green for North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction

The battle for North Carolina's state superintendent has never been this intense. Democratic candidate Mo Green is interviewed by former NC teacher, Natalie Parmenter.
25 min read
Sep 16
Is Pre K Necessary?

Is Pre K Necessary?

Many parents wonder: Is preschool or pre-k necessary for my child? The simple answer is no—your child isn’t required to attend. However, it’s important to ensure they still have meaningful learning experiences to help them grow socially, emotionally, and academically.
1 min read
Aug 29
Surgeon General: PARENTAL STRESS is a Public Health CRISIS | Are Teachers Part of the Problem?

Surgeon General: PARENTAL STRESS is a Public Health CRISIS | Are Teachers Part of the Problem?

The Surgeon General released an advisory on High Parental Stress. Parenting has become harder in the modern age to the point it it impacting parents' mental and physical health.
9 min read
Aug 24
First Day of Kindergarten - What to Expect| Back to School & Parenting

First Day of Kindergarten - What to Expect| Back to School & Parenting

What can you expect on your child's first day of kindergarten? In an encouraging video, Natalie shares how to prepare your child to prevent separation anxiety, what your child can expect from their teacher, and how parents can prepare for a great first day of school
9 min read
Aug 07
How Grandparents Can Help Grandkids be Kindergarten-Ready

How Grandparents Can Help Grandkids be Kindergarten-Ready

Starting kindergarten is a huge milestone for a young child. There are a lot of firsts which can be overwhelming for a four-, five-, or six-year-old. As their grandparent, you can take small intentional steps to help prepare your grandchild for school.
3 min read
Aug 06
A child working on a math spreadsheet

Math Hacks

Teach your student with this frustration-free tips...
2 min read
Jul 30
Dive into Olympic learning!

Kids, the Olympics, and Learning

How can you turn the Olympics into a fun learning opportunity?
1 min read
Jul 27
Banned Books: SHOCKING. Teacher Reacts | Young Adult Novels Banned Book Week 2024 | Moms for Liberty

Banned Books: SHOCKING. Teacher Reacts | Young Adult Novels Banned Book Week 2024 | Moms for Liberty

Natalie plays a game to find out why 5 popular YA novels were banned in United States schools during the 2023-24 school year.
13 min read

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