Wellbeing

Keeping Your Child's Routine on Track During the Holiday Break

As we approach the first term break, it's important to consider how to maintain some level of routine for your child, even amidst the excitement of holidays and opportunity to recharge. While holidays are a time for relaxation and enjoyment, they can also disrupt the familiar structure that children rely on during the school term. Here are some tips to help keep your child's routine on track during the holiday break:

• Consistency is Key: Try to maintain consistent wake-up and bedtime routines as much as possible. While it's tempting to let your child stay up late, irregular sleep patterns can disrupt their body clock and make it harder for them to adjust when school resumes.
• Establish a Daily Schedule: Create a basic daily schedule that includes time for meals, activities, and relaxation. Having a routine in place can provide a sense of predictability and stability for your child, even during the holiday chaos.
• Encourage Physical Activity: Keep your child active during the holidays by incorporating regular physical activity into their routine. Whether it's going for a walk, playing at the park, or participating in sports, staying active is not only good for their physical health but also helps them burn off excess energy.
• Limit Screen Time: While it's tempting to let your child spend hours on end in front of a screen, try to set reasonable limits on screen time. Too much screen time can interfere with sleep patterns and contribute to feelings of restlessness and irritability.
• Foster Learning Opportunities: Use the holiday break as a chance to explore new interests and hobbies with your child. Whether it's reading books together, visiting museums, or engaging in hands-on activities, learning can take place in many different forms outside of the classroom.
• Prioritise Relaxation: Remember that holidays are also a time for relaxation and downtime. Allow your child to unwind and recharge their batteries by providing opportunities for rest and relaxation throughout the break.
• Communicate Expectations: Be clear with your child about your expectations for their behaviour during the holiday break. Setting boundaries and expectations can help prevent conflicts and maintain a sense of order and routine.

By incorporating these simple tips into your holiday routine, you can help ensure that your child's break is both enjoyable and productive. Remember that every family is different, so feel free to adapt these suggestions to fit your own unique circumstances. 

Mr Dean Owens

Head of Wellbeing and Learning Enrichment

International Day of Happiness

The General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 20 March the International Day of Happiness, recognising the relevance of happiness and well-being as universal goals and aspirations in the lives of human beings around the world. The Wellbeing Team created a short video to celebrate the day:

(Video filmed and edited by Sophie L (Year 11).)