SchoolTV - Academic Care and Wellbeing

BEING HEALTHY AND SAFE

AND MANAGING SCHOOL TRANSITION

The new school year will be here we know it and you'll soon be helping your child manage their next transition. Whether it is starting school for the first time or starting or moving through secondary school, this time can be both exciting and challenging for students and parents.

Transitioning involves adjusting to a new stage of life or environment and associated stresses may show as anxiety or frustration and result in negative or disruptive behaviours. Such behaviours can become problematic making the transitioning process even more difficult for children and parents.

This edition of School TV includes practical strategies that parents can use to assist their children during the transition process and reduce stress and anxiety levels. 

HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAYS

As the end of the school year draws near and we head into the festive season we want you and your kids to be safe and healthy and getting the balance right can be difficult. SchoolTV has released a special report on surviving Christmas and you may also like to take a look at at this tip sheet about supporting your young person during the holidays.

Using alcohol can impact your child's safety and development. Andrew Fuller, Clinical Psychologist, presents 10 Reasons Why Your Teen Shouldn't Drink which all parents are encouraged to take a look at. If your kids are using alcohol or drugs (or even if they are not) you might also find these fact sheets useful. You can also find more information here and in the School TV Drug and Alcohol Edition. You might also like to make sure your young person understands the best way to support a friend if they are worried about them.

SAFE AND APPROPRIATE USE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Promoting the safe and appropriate use of digital technology and remain vigilant about how your young people are using technology and social media doesn't stop with the end of term. School TV has published a number of topics in this space and you can find links to Cyber-bullying, Sexting, Social Media and Digital Reputation.

Information is available from the e-Safety Commission, including the Safety Gift Guide which provides practical advice and information about tech gifts for kids. Common Sense Media is another great resource to help you understand the games and apps that your young person is accessing. 

With extra time on hand, kids with a creative bent may be interested in working on their entry for the Mentalicious Short Film Competition for students. Entries open on 28 January 2020 and the theme is “Rethinking Mental Health”. 

Thank you for taking the time to read and consider this information - as always I hope you find it supportive and helpful.  Have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy the festive season.

Ms Anne Hodkinson | College Psychologist