Wellbeing Centre Newsletter

It is hard to believe that here we are at the end of another week. As these past few weeks have flown by, what once may have felt novel for us adults, like the rhythm of making lunches and managing drop-off and pick-up runs, may now feel more routine, and the same can happen for our students as the excitement of the new school year fades.

It’s normal for children to experience some regression or emotional ups and downs once that initial novelty of being back at school wears off. Routines play a key role in helping children feel secure and regulated, as they thrive on knowing what to expect each day, this is something our class teachers prioritise to create a safe and predictable classroom environment.

Your choice of words when chatting about their day also makes a big difference in how a child perceives their day or school. Even with the best intentions, we can sometimes add extra stress or plant a new thought for our children to contemplate. Be mindful of questions like “Who did you play with?” (which can add pressure around friendships); instead, try open questions like “Tell me about something different you did today” or “Did you see any new games being played?” Similarly, avoid “Have a great day, I will miss you” at drop-off, as it might make them think they should feel sad too. Instead, try something like “Have a great day! I can’t wait to hear about it at pickup.” For children finding transitions tough, encourage them to focus on just one or two steps at a time, like “Walk into the room and put your bag away,” to build their confidence.

Remember also that your child has had a busy day at school full of academic learning, social navigation and sensory processing, and therefore may not want to talk about school at all when you pick them up. They may just want food and to wind down with some toys, playing outside, a book, shooting some hoops, etc. It may not be until bedtime that they are actually ready to say anything. This is quite normal.

Helpful books for supporting these transitions at home include Little One Step by Simon James (about taking small steps through challenges) and The Invisible String by Patrice Karst (reassuring kids about emotional connections even when apart).

WANTED! 

The Mindfulness Centre is collecting the Woolworths LEGO bricks for use at lunchtimes.  If you have any donations, please send them to the room.  We will be very appreciative.