Question

A primary School in Bloemfontein contacts you as an expert in Child Development for assistance. The
school is extremely concerned about the poor emerging academic performance of the Grade R pupils.
The principal mentions that the school mostly educates students from a poor economic background,
mentioning that many of the children's parents are both working long hours and thus many of the
youngsters have to spend long hours after school alone and do their own homework activities without
assistance
The teachers even mentioned that some of the 6 year olds are still struggling to the their shoelaces or
how to keep their own hair and clothing neat during the school day, mentioning that they do not know
how to do it
Many of the students also shares concerns about the financial situation at home that they might not
have food to eat, about their parents health, and their physical safety in an often dangerous
neighborhood These students often times are tired and agitated in class, or are extremely emotional
and cries in class due to these fears.
Answer the following question according to the case study above.

1. educate them on the Theory of Vygotsky explaining to them how important their role is in
assisting their children to learn new skills.

2. provide them with some tips on how to enhance their children's cognitive development. Please provide them with practical examples that will be of assistance in their particular community and financial situation.

3. Address the parents on the topic of fear and anxiety. Please educate the parents on how to help their children deal with these fears.