Reflect
As we approach the end of the year, I would like to begin by wishing all our Wednesday Wisdom readers and the wider Tooled Up community, a wonderful festive season with your families.
As the year draws to a close, it feels especially important to pause and reflect together. For many, this year will have included moments of joy and connection, but also times of sadness, uncertainty or concern about the world around us. When difficult events occur, it can be hard to know how to hold space for our own feelings while continuing to support the children and young people who depend on us. It is in these moments that the idea of light becomes especially important.
Light does not ignore the existence of darkness. Rather, it allows us to see clearly, to feel grounded and move forward with purpose. In family life and in school communities, light is found in everyday acts of care: in listening without judgement, offering reassurance, setting boundaries with compassion and helping children make sense of the world in ways that feel safe and age-appropriate.
This philosophy underpins everything we do at Tooled Up. Our work is not simply about empowering parents with tools and information, important though that is. It’s about strengthening the adults around young people so that they can create environments that are emotionally secure, understanding and supportive. When parents and carers are informed and confident, it leads to stronger relationships, richer experiences and greater opportunities for children and young people to thrive, even in an uncertain world.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the educators and school staff who work tirelessly day in and day out, for our children and young people. Your role goes beyond teaching the curriculum. You offer consistency, care and support, especially when it’s needed most. Your dedication and professionalism truly make a difference.
I would also like to take a moment to recognise the incredible effort and love that parents and carers invest in raising their children. Your support, patience and commitment shape young lives in both the everyday moments and the more challenging times. Your role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience is invaluable. Thank you for all that you do.
Finally, as we move into the festive season, I hope you are able to find moments of rest, connection and renewal. Thank you for being part of the Wednesday Wisdom and Tooled Up community and for the vital role you play in children’s lives. Together, through small but meaningful actions, we can continue to be a source of light for the children in our care.
With warmest wishes for the season ahead,
Dr Kathy Weston
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If you are in need of some last minute gift ideas, check out our list, packed with suggestions from the Tooled Up team.