Advice Health
put in the work in your relationship.
My nine-year-old daughter is fascinated by languages. She is learning French at school, takes weekly German classes and has a private Saturday Mandarin class. But the school has not been that enthusiastic, and I am not sure why. We are talking about sending her abroad for a year on an exchange. Is she too young for all of this? Juliette, Gwent
Dr Helen Wright says: How lovely to hear that your daughter is excited by languages! I can understand, though, that her school may be less enthusiastic. Please don’t see this as a reflection of their view of languages. It’s more probable that they are unlikely to be able to cater for more languages than they offer. However, do make sure she doesn’t become overloaded. If she starts too many languages at the same time, there is a possibility that she might become confused as the grammar and syntax become more challenging. As for sending your daughter abroad at
the age of nine, you yourself will be best placed to know whether or not she is ready.
Would you ever separate twins for their schooling? My non-identical pair are chalk and cheese: a very bright seven-year-old girl and a much quieter, less academic boy who clearly hides behind his sister. My husband thinks we should send our son to a boarding prep school. But should they be together? Claudia, Yorkshire
Jo Webbern says: Normally I suggest that twins stay together until the end of
The Pre-Prep Headmistress Jo Webbern is Head of Dunannie, Bedales Pre-prep School, Hampshire.
Reception, then, if they are ready, and there are two parallel classes, a split can happen. If you send your son away he may feel he
is being rejected and be very confused about why his sister can stay at home and benefit
and key world figures. She will appreciate informal conversations with you on such topics as they arise. She should be ready to provide examples which illustrate her commitment to her chosen scholarship area. I often ask potential pupils how they wish to develop their interests in the future. A strong handshake, good eye contact, and speaking clearly demonstrates self- assurance and clarity of thought. Above all she needs to be honest and to be herself and she should be fine.
My 10 year-old has started her periods. She has had two rather erratic and heavy periods a few months apart and each time it has begun at school. She felt
from all the lovely things that go with home life. I don’t think you should underestimate how much – as siblings – they will miss each other. They are, after all, very young. Try to find a co-ed school with a two-form
entry. This way the twins are apart, enabling your son to grow in confidence and flourish independently, while still being close and able to see his twin sister.
My 11 year-old girl is due to go for her scholarship interview to get into a highly competitive school. What questions should she expect and how can we prepare her? Henry, Kensington
Patricia Woodhouse says: It’s worth visiting the school website to find specific guidance. Here at Malvern St James, we have top tips online. Prior to the interview, encourage your daughter to read newspapers and watch the news so that she is aware of current issues, world events
The Consultant Gynaecologist Dr Sovra Whitcroft is a consultant gynaecologist at the Surrey Park Clinic, Guildford.
mortified and is now finding reasons to stay off school. Katherine, south London
Dr Sovra Whitcroft says: In the early stages, periods can be erratic as the development of the egg is variable. Two types of medication may help:
Tranexamic acid tablets can reduce the bleeding quickly and can even stop it. She could also use a progesterone supplement such as Norethisterone, which can reduce bleeding effectively. They are easy to take and can go in her bag. She could have a small kit of underwear and pads, or small size tampons, ready in a hidden part of her bag or locker. If the periods are very heavy she may be a
candidate for a low dose pill to regulate her bleeds but it is best if she waits until growth appears complete.
Our First Eleven panelists invite you to email your questions to:
editor@firstelevenmagazine.co.uk
The Headmistress Patricia Woodhouse is Headmistress at Malvern St James, Worcestershire.
www.firstelevenmagazine.co.uk
Summer 2012 FirstEleven 55
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