News from the Deputy Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

The last few weeks have been extremely busy as we prepare for our upcoming production in early September.  With so much going on, teachers, students and parents are feeling the strain of being over tired.

For many of us, the emotional regulation continuum for our children can seem to ebb and flow, and we often wonder if particular behaviours are right for their age and when they might develop particular emotional skills.  The graphic below demonstrates the emotional development for children in primary years and may be helpful for you to see when particular skills are expected to be developed.

The lack of sleep can often pre-determine how we respond to things during the day and can often set us up for some difficulties with behaviour.   Below are some pieces of information about how you might improve routines around sleep and improve the quality of sleep for your family.

Tips to help children sleep well

Getting enough sleep is as important for your child as healthy eating and exercising. Here are some tips to help your child fall asleep, stay asleep and get enough good quality sleep:

• Establish a sleep schedule: Make sure your child goes to bed early enough to get the sleep they need. Once you have set an appropriate bed time, stick to it — even on the weekend.
• Establish a bedtime routine: Follow the same routine every day: bath or shower, change into pyjamas, brush teeth, read or spend quiet time in their bedroom, lights out and go to sleep.
• Help your child wind down: Busy children need some time to relax. Consider playing soft music or reading to them.
• Make sure the bedroom is suitable for sleep: Ensure the bedroom is dark and quiet. If your child is anxious or afraid at night, use a night light.
• Avoid stimulants: Make sure your child avoids tea, coffee, chocolate and sports drinks, especially in the afternoon.
• Turn off technology: Try turning off computers, tablets and television one hour before bedtime to help your child sleep better.

The Royal Children's Hospital has some great resources and tips on improving the sleep health of children. Their website is linked below.

Below is a Podcast from the Royal Children's Hospital and Paediatrician Dr Anthea Rhodes on Healthy Sleep Habits.

PSGs this term

Due to the busyness of the last weeks of term with Production and Nick being on leave later in the term, we will leave the PSG meetings until Term 4, where we will sign off on Term 3 and 4 goals.  If, of course, you would like to discuss anything regarding Individual Learning Plans and goals for your children, please make an appointment with your child's classroom teacher.  The PSGs for Term 4 will be held in the middle of the term. Please keep an eye out for dates and other information closer to the time.

Wishing you all the best for the following weeks,

Katie