How to Help Your Child Succeed Under CBC in Kenya

Introduction

The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has changed how children learn in Kenya. Unlike the old exam-focused system, CBC emphasizes skills, talents, values, and continuous assessment. Many parents feel confused or overwhelmed—but the truth is, parental support is one of the biggest factors in a child’s success under CBC.

This guide explains practical ways Kenyan parents can help their children succeed under CBC, both at school and at home.

Understand What CBC Is (and What It Is Not)

CBC is designed to:

• Develop skills, creativity, and problem-solving

• Identify and nurture talents early

• Reduce exam pressure

• Prepare learners for real-life situations

CBC is not only about exams, but about continuous learning and growth.

When parents understand this, they stop comparing CBC with 8-4-4 and start supporting it effectively.

Support Learning at Home

Learning under CBC does not stop at school. Parents play an active role.

You can help by:

• Creating a quiet study space at home

• Encouraging daily reading and practice

• Allowing children to ask questions freely

• Helping with simple projects and assignments

You do not need to be a teacher—presence and encouragement matter more.

Encourage Your Child’s Strengths and Talents

CBC recognizes that children are different.

Some may excel in:

• Academics

• Sports

• Music and arts

• Technical and practical skills

Avoid forcing a child into areas they struggle with. Instead:

• Observe what they enjoy

• Support their interests

• Celebrate effort, not just results

This builds confidence and motivation.

Communicate Regularly With Teachers

Strong parent-teacher communication is essential under CBC.

Parents should:

• Attend school meetings and clinics

• Ask about progress, not just grades

• Understand assessment reports

• Seek guidance on areas needing support

Teachers provide valuable insights into a child’s strengths and challenges.

Help Your Child Develop Life Skills

CBC focuses heavily on life skills such as:

• Responsibility

• Communication

• Problem-solving

• Teamwork

• Self-discipline

Parents can support this by:

• Giving children age-appropriate responsibilities

• Teaching time management

• Encouraging respectful communication

• Allowing children to make small decisions

These skills are just as important as academic performance.

Reduce Pressure and Comparison

One major mistake parents make is comparing children.

Under CBC:

• Children learn at different speeds

• Success is not one-dimensional

• Continuous assessment matters more than ranking

Avoid statements like:

• “Your cousin is doing better.”

• “You must be top of the class.”

Instead, focus on personal progress and effort.

Guide, Don’t Control Career and Pathway Choices

As learners approach upper grades, CBC introduces pathway selection.

Parents should:

• Discuss options openly

• Listen to the child’s interests

• Avoid forcing prestigious careers

• Seek professional guidance where needed

When children feel heard, they perform better and stay motivated.

Manage Screen Time and Learning Tools

Technology can be helpful or harmful depending on use.

Parents should:

• Encourage educational content

• Limit excessive screen time

• Monitor phone and internet usage

• Promote balance between study, rest, and play

Healthy routines support better learning outcomes.

Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid

• Expecting CBC to work like 8-4-4

• Ignoring talents outside academics

• Doing assignments for the child

• Focusing only on marks

• Lack of involvement in school activities

Avoiding these mistakes helps children thrive.

Conclusion

CBC success in Kenya is a shared responsibility between schools, learners, and parents. When parents understand the system, support learning at home, encourage talents, and reduce pressure, children grow confidently and perform better academically and socially.

Your involvement today shapes your child’s future tomorrow.