Principal's Message

Dear  parents and carers,

Pushing Up for a Good Cause: Let's Talk Mental Health!

As we move through June, your children may have mentioned they have been doing exercises in the morning.  Some of our teachers are engaging in a rather rigorous personal challenge: the Push-Up Challenge. For 23 days this month, we are committing to completing a significant number of push-ups (or alternative exercises) all in support of a cause close to my heart, and one that deeply impacts our wider community: mental health.

The number 3,214 is a sombre figure. It represents the tragic number of lives lost in Australia in 2023 due to mental health-related issues. This statistic serves as a powerful reminder of the silent battles many face and the critical importance of fostering open conversations and proactive support around mental well-being.

While these statistics may seem distant from the daily lives of our children, it’s vital to recognise that mental health is a spectrum, and establishing healthy habits from a young age is paramount. Our children are navigating an increasingly complex world, resilience and mental well-being is just as important as their physical health.

So, what can we do to help our kids thrive mentally?

• Sleep, glorious sleep! Seriously, good sleep isn't a luxury; it's absolutely vital for growing brains. When kids don't get enough shut-eye, they can be grumpy, can't focus, and might even feel more anxious. Let's aim for those consistent bedtimes and make their bedrooms a calm, sleepy zone.
• Get moving! Exercise is like a superpower for the mind. Whether it's kicking a ball, running around the park, or riding bikes, physical activity is a fantastic way to bust stress, lift spirits, and help kids handle their emotions.
• Navigating the social media maze: Let's be real, social media is a big part of life for many kids these days. It can be fun for connecting, but it can also bring a lot of pressure, comparison, and even cyberbullying. Chat with your kids about staying safe online, setting screen time limits, and finding a good balance between their digital and real lives.

As parents, you're the ultimate role models. When you prioritise your own mental health, show healthy ways to deal with stress, and create a home where talking about feelings is normal, you're setting a fantastic example. Let your kids know it's always okay to talk about what's on their mind and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The Push-Up Challenge isn't just about busting out reps; it's about raising awareness and kicking down the stigma around mental health. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, building a supportive community for everyone, especially our kids.

Let's keep these conversations going, both at school and at home, so our children grow up strong, resilient, and happy from the inside out.

Regards

Leisa Shortis

Acting Principal