As a Nigerian mum raising kids in the UK, I’ve come to realise that I want more for my children — not just in terms of material things, but in their education, character, and future opportunities.
If I were to have a baby today, there are so many things I would do differently. Over the years, I’ve learned that parenting in the UK requires being intentional from day one. It’s not enough to simply hope our children will do well — we must actively guide, support, and nurture them.
Here’s what I would do if I were starting again:
1. Start Early
From the day my baby is born, I would make reading part of our daily routine. I would read to him every night — even when he’s too little to understand — because it builds language skills and creates a special bond.
2. Teach at Home
By the time he turns two, I would start teaching him how to read through phonics sounds and basic number counting. I’ve learned that the earlier we expose our children to learning, the more confident they become.
3. Choose the Right School
At age three, I would introduce him to more reading and enrol him in a good prep school. I wouldn’t just put him in any school because it’s nearby — I would do my research. If I couldn’t find a good school in my area, I’d even consider moving to where the best schools are. Education sets the foundation for everything else.
4. Create a Daily Routine
Every day, I would create a simple study routine — time to read, time to play, and time to rest. Children thrive on structure, and consistency helps them develop discipline and good habits.
5. Encourage Curiosity
During school holidays, I would take him to museums, libraries, and places that spark curiosity. I would study him closely — watch what he enjoys, what excites him — and encourage those interests.
6. Be Involved
Throughout his primary and secondary school years, I would stay involved in his education. I’d talk to his teachers regularly, attend school events, and take him to school whenever possible. I want him to know I care about his learning.
7. Teach Kindness and Values
I would teach him kindness — not just by telling him, but by showing him. Children learn more from what we do than what we say. I would be a role model, showing him how to treat others with respect and compassion.
8. Find Mentorship
When he becomes a teenager, I would connect him with a good mentor — someone who can guide him through those challenging years and help him make wise choices as he grows into a young adult.
Why I’m Writing This
I’m writing this to encourage other parents, especially mums like me, to be intentional about how we raise our children.
I’ve realised that we get out of our children what we put into them. If we invest time, love, and effort, we’ll see the results in their confidence, character, and success. But if we don’t put much in, we can’t expect much in return.
So let’s be present. Let’s guide them, nurture their gifts, and show them that they can achieve great things — because when we plant the right seeds early, the harvest will surely come. 🌱
Olu
A Nigerian 🇳🇬 mom and a grandma raising kids in the UK 🇬🇧
Positive Parenting With Olu 