ST NORBERT NEWS

Pastoral Care

Rest. Reflect. Reconnect. Ready for Term 2.

The holiday break offers a welcome chance to pause and reset. This isn’t just about taking a break from schoolwork; it’s about making time for the things that nourish our minds, bodies, and relationships.

Here are some simple but meaningful ways to make the most of the Term 1 holidays:

💤 1. Rest Well – Make space for real rest

In a world that often celebrates being “busy,” we want to encourage something different: true, intentional rest. Encourage your children to unwind in healthy ways: less screen time, more fresh air, and consistent sleep patterns.

  • Sleep in a little. Let your body reset.

  • Slow down your mornings—no rush to the car, no bells ringing.

  • Take breaks from devices and give your mind a breather.

  • Spend time in nature, go for a walk, or just enjoy doing nothing for a while.

Rest isn’t laziness—it’s preparation. When we’re rested, we think more clearly, feel more balanced, and engage more positively with the people and world around us. Adequate rest helps improve mood, focus, and energy—essentials for thriving in Term 2. 

🧠 2. Reflect – Take stock of Term 1

The end of term is a great time to look back and ask: What have I learned about myself this term?

Encourage your child to think about:

  • What were my biggest wins?

  • Where did I grow the most?

  • What did I find challenging?

  • What habits helped me? What habits held me back?

Reflection helps build self-awareness and ownership of learning and wellbeing. Consider writing goals or intentions for Term 2—not as pressure, but as a positive guide forward.

💬 3. Reconnect – Strengthen relationships

The school term can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. Holidays are the time to slow down and re-focus on the people who matter most.

  • Share meals together as a family.

  • Have a tech-free night where you play a board game or go for a walk.

  • Reach out to a friend you haven’t seen in a while.

  • Do something fun together—no agenda, no pressure.

When students feel connected, they are more confident, secure, and ready to face challenges. These connections are the heart of wellbeing and resilience. Relationships are the heart of wellbeing.

🎨 4. Re-engage in things you enjoy

What lights you up? What do you love doing, just because it makes you feel good?

  • Pick up a creative project—drawing, writing, music.

  • Read a book just for fun.

  • Get outdoors and move—skate, ride, swim, run.

  • Cook something new, try a new hobby, or revisit an old one.

School holidays are a great time to reconnect with activities that bring joy and energy. These are not distractions from learning—they are part of a rich, balanced life.

🗓️ 5. Prepare gently for Term 2

While holidays are for rest and fun, the final few days can be a good time to ease gently back into routine.

  • Re-establish a healthy sleep schedule.

  • Organise school supplies, clean out your bag, and check your uniform.

  • Set one or two achievable goals for Term 2 (e.g., "I’ll ask more questions in class," or "I’ll start assignments earlier").

  • Talk about anything you’re worried about—don’t carry those worries alone.

A calm and confident start sets the tone for the term ahead. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being prepared for all good works!

 

We know that for some, holidays can be a time of uncertainty or stress. If you or your child need support—emotional, social, or mental health-related—please know you're not alone. Below are a number of confidential, free services available to young people and families:

📱 Phone & Online Support

  • Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800Free 24/7 counselling for ages 5–25 | www.kidshelpline.com.au

  • Headspace – www.headspace.org.auMental health and wellbeing support for young people aged 12–25

  • Lifeline – 13 11 1424/7 crisis support and suicide prevention

  • Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636Support for anxiety, depression and mental health | www.beyondblue.org.au

📍 Local Services (WA-based)

  • Your GP – A trusted first step for accessing youth mental health plans.

  • CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service) – https://www.cahs.health.wa.gov.au

📚 Apps & Tools for Young People

  • Smiling Mind – Free mindfulness app for kids and teens

  • ReachOut – www.reachout.com – Info, forums, and self-help tools for teens

  • MoodMission – App to help manage low moods and anxiety

  • How We Feel – App to help identify and manage moods and big feelings

 

Term 2 brings new experiences and challenges, and we want every student to return feeling rested, supported, and ready to engage. 

The Pastoral Care Team