Student Support
Ms Gee
There are times when your child might be exhibiting some concerning behaviours. Perhaps you may not see these behaviours as problematic thinking that they are temporary or they "will grow out of them".
Your teacher may notice behaviours at school that are not age-appropriate to your child’s development. In discussion with you, a process of support will be put in place. However, you may have noticed some behaviours yourself, that are of concern to you. Please don’t hesitate to discuss these with your teacher or health professional.
Perhaps you have noticed your child:
- Is easily angered, annoyed or irritated
- Has frequent temper tantrums
- Difficulty dealing with disappointment
- Argues frequently with adults, particularly the most familiar adults in their lives, such as parents, teachers
- Refuses to obey rules
- Seems to deliberately try to annoy or aggravate others
- Has low self-esteem
- Has a low frustration threshold
- Is constantly worried or anxious about things of little consequence
- Has difficulties with separation
- Has difficulty interacting with others
- Has difficulties with conflict resolution
- Is experiencing grief
This list refers to ongoing behaviours that don’t respond to consistent and fair parenting practices or guidance and sensitive support. Helping your child to understand their feelings and build resilience is a life skill that is so necessary to their wellbeing. Minor behaviour problems can often be addressed by changing your discipline strategy. Look for ways to make teaching appropriate behaviours to your child more effective. For example, if you’ve been removing privileges when your child is not doing their chores, try offering a positive consequence that motivates them to do what is expected.
More serious behaviour problems require professional help. If you notice that your child’s aggressive or argumentative behaviours or sad and withdrawn behaviours are impacting on home and school life, then talk to your family doctor or ask the school for a referral to our psychologist, Brett Cocking.
St Joseph’s has access to Centacare for professional support in helping all concerned when difficult issues arise. They offer confidential counselling and therapeutic interventions and also provide cognitive assessments. Up to six counselling sessions can be accessed free of charge with referrals initiated by parents or school staff. Sessions are held on site at the school.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to to speak to your teacher or myself.
Nina Gee