Student Wellbeing

Supporting Inclusion and Belonging at Home 

At our school, we are committed to creating a community where every child feels valued, accepted, safe and supported. Inclusion and belonging don’t stop at the school gate — families play a powerful role in helping children learn to respect differences and include others.

Here are some simple ways parents and carers can support primary school children to develop kindness, empathy and respect for others.

 Talk openly about differences

Children are naturally curious. Encourage respectful conversations about differences in culture, family structures, abilities, beliefs and experiences. Let your child know it’s okay to ask questions and that everyone’s story matters.

 Listen to your child’s experiences

Ask about their day and really listen — especially if they share worries, conflicts or moments when someone felt left out. These conversations help children learn to understand different points of view and build empathy.

 Model inclusive behaviour

Children learn a lot from what they see. Showing kindness, fairness and respect in your own words and actions helps children understand how to treat others. Talking positively about diversity sends a strong message of acceptance.

Address hurtful language or behaviour

If you hear language that is unkind, discriminatory or offensive, use it as a teachable moment. Calmly explain why those words or actions can hurt others and discuss better choices. Acting early helps children learn responsibility and compassion.

Encourage inclusion

Support your child to include others in play, group work and friendships — especially children who may seem different or new. Small actions can make a big difference to someone’s sense of belonging.

 Acknowledge that learning takes time

Understanding fairness and equity is an ongoing process for both children and adults. It’s okay to make mistakes — what matters is reflecting, learning and growing together.

By working in partnership, we can help all children feel confident, respected and ready to thrive — both at school and beyond.

Thank you for supporting a caring and inclusive school community.

 

Jenny Willmott

Deputy Principal and Student Wellbeing