School News

Ms Hall AP Message

I would like to begin this issue by introducing myself, my name is Julie Hall and I am very excited to have joined the Toorak Primary School Community this year as the Inclusion and Wellbeing Assistant Principal. I have been an educator for over 30 years and have been a classroom teacher, specialist, leading teacher and acting Assistant Principal. My passion is wellbeing and engagement and I look forward to working with your children, their families and teachers to assistant students to reach their full potential.

 

The start of the year can bring with it mixed emotions - excitement and nerves, both understandable. Sharon Baker, the Principal in Residence at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership has the following tips for families which are helpful not only for the start of the year but beyond.

 

1. Acknowledge their feelings

  • Validate emotions: Let your child know it's okay to feel sad, anxious, or disappointed. Acknowledging these emotions can reduce anxiety by making them feel understood (Beyond Blue, 2021). You might say, ‘I know it’s hard to leave a class where you felt comfortable, and it's normal to feel a bit nervous about what’s coming next.’

2. Focus on positives and familiarity

  • Highlight exciting aspects: Emphasise the positive opportunities that come with the new class, like meeting new friends, trying different activities, or having a fresh start with a new teacher. This reframing can help children start seeing change as an opportunity.
  • Identify familiar faces: Point out any friends or known peers who might also be in their new class. Familiar faces can help ease the transition (Dockett & Perry, 2007).

3. Encourage problem-solving and independence

  • Plan for success: Brainstorm strategies with your child to help them feel more comfortable, such as introducing themselves to new classmates, joining group activities, or asking for help when needed.
  • Build coping skills: Teach your child positive self-talk, like reminding themselves, ‘I can handle new things,’ which research shows can reduce anxiety and build resilience (Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2021).
  • Model a positive outlook on change: Show a positive attitude toward change yourself, sharing times when you successfully handled transitions or new experiences. This can set a model for them and show that they can handle new situations too. Let them see that you are confident in their ability to handle the change, which can help them feel more secure.

4. Set and maintain predictable routine

  • Consistency and structure: Establishing a daily routine, including consistent bedtimes, meal schedules, and even homework times, helps children feel secure. Familiarity with routines can help them feel more in control amid changes in their school life (ARACY, 2018).
  • Transition preparation: If possible, practice aspects of their new routine, such as packing their school bag or visiting the new classroom, to help them feel prepared and ready.

5. Encourage open communication with teachers

  • Connect with educators: Let your child know they can approach their teacher with questions or concerns. Building rapport with the teacher early on can help them feel supported. Communicating with the teacher yourself may also help establish support for your child if any specific anxieties arise.

6. Promote friendships and social skills

  • Arrange playdates or social time: If possible, arrange for your child to meet some classmates outside of school. Positive social interactions help children build confidence in their social skills and see their new class as a space for friendships (Dockett & Perry, 2007).

 

Supporting a child through a class transition takes time and patience. You can make the adjustment more manageable by recognising their feelings, setting positive expectations, and helping them prepare for the change.

 

Please take the opportunity to take part in next Wednesday's Meet and Greet which is an excellent opportunity for you to share important information about your child with their class teacher.

 

I look forward to working with you and your children and if you have any concerns or questions I would love to hear from you.

 

Kind regards,

Julie Hall

Assistant Principal