Wellbeing
Mrs Mauriks
Building Independence in Our Junior Students
One of the most important skills we can help our younger students develop is independence. While it can sometimes feel quicker or easier for adults to assist with morning routines, giving children the opportunity to complete these tasks themselves helps build confidence, resilience, responsibility, and a positive start to the school day.
We encourage families to support independence by:
- allowing children to carry their own school bag into school
- encouraging students to unpack their own belongings
- supporting children to complete their own morning classroom jobs and routines
saying a quick, positive goodbye and allowing children to transition independently into the school day
Our staff are always nearby to support students as they settle in, and we find that shorter goodbyes often help children transition more calmly and confidently. Lingering on the playground or in classroom areas can sometimes make separation more difficult for children and can impact their ability to begin the day independently.
Friendship Building Before School
The first 15 minutes before school are often one of the best opportunities for students to build friendships, develop confidence, and practise important social skills. During this time, children naturally engage in conversations, games, and shared play with peers before classroom learning begins.
To support this, we encourage students to arrive at school with enough time to settle in, connect with friends, and enjoy the social aspects of the morning. Arriving just before the bell can sometimes make it harder for students to build these relationships and can increase feelings of stress or rushed transitions into class.
These small daily interactions play an important role in helping children feel connected, included, and ready for learning.
Thank you for your support in helping our students develop these important lifelong skills.
Have a great week everyone!
Mrs Roisin Mauriks
roisin.mauriks@education.vic.gov.au
Ph: 5368 1072