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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

Mar 12
How do I teach my child to embrace other cultures?

How do I teach my child to embrace other cultures?

This is exactly why multicultural education is so important. It helps us understand that people are just people- and we should see our differences as interesting and worth celebrating. The good news is, it's easy to incorporate multiculturalism into your routine.
2 min read
Mar 05
🍀 3 spring holidays that aren't St Patrick's Day

🍀 3 spring holidays that aren't St Patrick's Day

Every spring there are a multitude of festivals and holidays celebrated around the world. Many of them will be observed in your own town. I picked out 3 that are really fun and more likely to have celebrations you could attend.
2 min read
Mar 02
Q&A with a Teacher: March Livestream: Rapid fire questions, about custom learning plans & consult calls

Q&A with a Teacher: March Livestream: Rapid fire questions, about custom learning plans & consult calls

Natalie hosts a livestream answering questions about supporting your child in elementary school, teaching, and her life.
4 min read
Feb 27
😰 Will my child be BULLIED for this?

😰 Will my child be BULLIED for this?

Recently, I've had a few consultation calls with parents of rising kindergartners. I've been asked this question by them and followers so many times I had to address it. Let's talk about summer babies...
2 min read
Feb 24
Screen time: how much is too much? Interview w/ Ash Brandin @TheGamerEducator

Screen time: how much is too much? Interview w/ Ash Brandin @TheGamerEducator

There's a negative connotation around children and screen time. But does there have to be? This interview will reframe how you think about the way children interact with video games.
28 min read
Feb 20
Hack: Kids Mental Health Meets Reading

Hack: Kids Mental Health Meets Reading

When reading fiction with your child there's one reading comprehension question you should always be asking. How is the character feeling right now?
2 min read
Feb 13
that feeling in your gut

that feeling in your gut

Have you ever had that feeling in your gut...like something is wrong? Maybe it's happened with your child. You have concerns with their learning, or a teacher's advice doesn't seem to fit what you needed. That's why I started Primary Focus.
2 min read
Feb 10
Ask an Elementary School Teacher: February Q&A with Primary Focus

Ask an Elementary School Teacher: February Q&A with Primary Focus

Get expert answers in the February Q&A with Primary Focus. Learn how to support your child's social, emotional, and academic growth, navigate school transitions, and communicate effectively with teachers. Ideal for families exploring CMS, private, and magnet schools in Charlotte.
2 min read
Feb 06
Homework ruins my day!

Homework ruins my day!

Is homework time stressful? Take these tips from a teacher encourage your child to work independently, ask for help without whining, and be time efficient.
2 min read
Feb 05
3 Signs your Child Needs a Tutor

3 Signs your Child Needs a Tutor

It's incredible the amount of support a tutor can give...but how do you know it's time to hire one?
1 min read
Feb 02
Valentine's Day Teacher Gift Guide

Valentine's Day Teacher Gift Guide

Whether your budget is $0 or $10, Natalie has a great Valentine's Day gift for your child’s teacher or favorite school support staff member.
8 min read
Jan 30
February packs a punch!

February packs a punch!

This Thursday begins the shortest longest month of the year for preschool and lower elementary school teachers. If this is your first year with your child in school, buckle up! There's so much going on in February!
2 min read

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