Wellbeing
A message from Emily Murcott - Assistant Principal / Wellbeing Literacy Leader
In the previous newsletter, I focused on social and emotional learning. Parents and families help to develop their children’s personal and social skills, attitudes and behaviours in different ways. Last week I focused on “Positive reinforcement: Recognising when a child demonstrates positive social, emotional and relationship skills will help instil good habits and behaviours”.
This newsletter we are going to focus on the following topic:
Providing a loving and calm environment: Establishing rules and routines to provide structure and predictability. Showing affection and care towards children and spending quality time together.
Creating a loving and calm environment is essential for children's development and well-being. Here are some specific examples of how parents can establish rules and routines, show affection and care, and spend quality time with their children:
Establishing Rules and Routines
1. Consistent Bedtime Routine:
Example: "Every night, we will have dinner, then you can play for a bit, we'll have a bath, read a story, and then it's bedtime at 8 PM."
Purpose: Provides structure and helps children know what to expect, promoting better sleep and a sense of security.
2. Homework Time:
Example: "After school, we’ll have a snack and then it’s homework time from 4 PM to 5 PM before you can watch TV or play."
Purpose: Establishes a clear expectation for when homework should be done, fostering responsibility and time management.
3. Chore Chart:
Example: "Here’s a chart with chores for each day. You’ll be responsible for feeding the pet on Mondays and Wednesdays, and setting the table on Tuesdays and Thursdays."
Purpose: Encourages participation in household responsibilities and helps children understand their role in the family.
Showing Affection and Care
1. Daily Hugs and Affirmations:
Example: "Every morning, give a hug and say something positive, like 'I love you' or 'You’re going to have a great day today!'"
Purpose: Reinforces a sense of being loved and valued.
2. Listening Attentively:
Example: "When your child talks about their day, give them your full attention, make eye contact, and show genuine interest in what they’re saying."
Purpose: Demonstrates that their thoughts and feelings are important to you.
3. Praise and Encouragement:
Example: "When your child completes a task or shows good behaviour, praise them specifically: 'I’m so proud of how you finished your homework on time!'"
Purpose: Builds self-esteem and encourages positive behaviour.
Spending Quality Time Together
1. Family Meals:
Example: "Have dinner together as a family without distractions like TV or phones, and use this time to talk about everyone’s day."
Purpose: Strengthens family bonds and encourages open communication.
2. Weekend Outings:
Example: "Plan regular family outings, such as going to the park, visiting a museum, or having a picnic."
Purpose: Creates special memories and provides opportunities for learning and exploration together.
3. Shared Hobbies:
Example: "Engage in activities that both you and your child enjoy, like baking, gardening, or playing sports."
Purpose: Fosters a sense of teamwork and mutual interests, enhancing the parent-child relationship.
4. Reading Together:
Example: "Set aside time each day to read together, choosing books that interest your child and discussing them afterwards."
Purpose: Promotes a love of reading and provides a calm, bonding activity.
5. Game Nights:
Example: "Establish a weekly game night where the family plays board games or card games together."
Purpose: Encourages fun, laughter, and healthy competition in a positive, shared experience.
Maintaining a Calm Environment
1. Modelling Calm Behaviour:
Example: "When faced with stressful situations, show your child how to remain calm and composed: 'I’m feeling frustrated right now, so I’m going to take a few deep breaths to calm down.'"
Purpose: Teaches children how to manage stress and emotions effectively.
2. Calm Down Corner:
Example: "Create a designated space in the home where your child can go to relax and calm down if they’re feeling overwhelmed, filled with comforting items like soft pillows, books, and calming toys."
Purpose: Provides a safe space for children to self-regulate and practice calming techniques.
3. Positive Morning Routine:
Example: "Start the day with a positive routine that includes a healthy breakfast, a few minutes of stretching or deep breathing, and some positive affirmations."
Purpose: Sets a positive tone for the day, reducing morning stress and creating a sense of calm.
By implementing these strategies, parents can create a nurturing and stable environment that supports their children's emotional and social development.