Stay Connected

Last night I was watching a new show on Netflix - a typical hospital drama, following several doctors' lives as they work in a New York hospital, New Amsterdam. The episode was particularly interesting when a young boy was admitted with a suspected cardiac arrest. Sounds dramatic, but it took my interest. As the narrative unfolded, the young boy's condition was revealed, and it was referred to as 'Popcorn Lung', a deadly lung disease linked to vaping. What took my attention even more was how the young boy's parents were naive to their child's use of e-cigarettes. With compassion, a doctor explained how teenagers are particularly good at hiding something they do not want their parents to see.

This episode made me think about my own relationships with my teenage children and how it is important to stay connected. Open conversations should be had about their relationships. Discuss social concerns such as consent or around partying and an awareness of the impact of alcohol and illicit drugs. We know that having this sense of connectedness is one of the most significant protective factors for young women. Feeling valued, listened to, and safe means your child is more likely to come to you for help with problems rather than engaging in risky or harmful behaviour. Research has shown that children experience greater self-esteem, improved academic achievement, and stronger future relationships when parents connect with them.

So what does this connection look like? Mount Alvernia College's pastoral care program is designed to support students by encouraging informed decisions. Closely working with your children, our role is to guide and prepare them for the future.

To stay connected, remember to:

Access igloo for student timetables, quick links to portals, and sometimes even special notices. Continuous feedback is also available when published.
Actively listen. Responding and offering encouragement is a way to continue the conversation. Take the time to validate your child's thoughts without dismissing their feelings. Ask them how the problem can be solved rather than you providing the solution.
Prompt a discussion on challenges and success in learning. Chat to your child about assignments and exams. Check their stress levels. Ask about the Personal Development Program, which promotes self-care with strategies to empower students to manage the road ahead.
Seek guidance and support from the College and external providers.
Use free online apps. For example, the Smiling Mind app is great for strategies. A meditation program is also an easy way to access a series of mindfulness exercises.
Support the College by ensuring your child arrives at school on time. This is crucial. Unless for health reasons, attending each day as scheduled is essential. Missing important lessons delays learning and increases stress, resulting in bigger problems upon their return.
Look after your child's wellbeing. As a parent, it is normal and okay to worry; however, let them take responsibility for their study. Their results are not a reflection of your parenting but a signal that THEY MUST address with teachers. If, for whatever reason, they cannot focus, be patient. With the right support they will manoeuvre themselves through.
Be sure of your facts and trust the College has your child's best interests at heart. Avoid buying into those destructive ATAR myths and take time to exercise, read, listen to music, or garden. Model behaviour: Do what I do, not what I say.
Encourage a healthy lifestyle. Eating, exercise, sleep habits, and a balanced plate.

Understandably, the recent exam block may have fatigued your child whilst they adapt to the greater personal responsibility they must take for their learning. The resilience they need might be compared to a branch of an olive tree in a storm. When thunder, wind, and rain shake their world, the hope is that their flexibility and strength will enable them to recover, continuing to grow and understand the impermanence of everything in life. While they may appear more ill-equipped than usual, do not panic, they are simply adjusting to the academic rigour of Year 12.

Most importantly, during the break, congratulate your child's commitment to study by allowing them time to relax and rejuvenate. Give them time to socialise with friends, read books, be active and, most importantly, make time to connect; make it real! Have a conversation with them; share moments and stories when you personally faced life challenges. Go for a walk together or a longer drive where they feel more willing to open up and share their world.

In Year 12, the stakes appear to be higher, so remember to stay connected. Together with you, we at Mount Alvernia College are here to give her the best opportunity for success.

Interestingly, reflecting back on the New Amsterdam episode, the power of prayer is also represented to help support the young boy, his parents, and doctors. The audience receives an insight into how faith factors into our lives and helps us connect with one another. As we approach Holy Week - the most significant time in the liturgical year - may we pray for those who continue to face considerable challenges in our community. May God give them the strength to embark on the next stage of their journey. May our thoughts and prayers be with their families.

The College Captains have created a page to fundraise and support Year 12 student Megan Reid, who has been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. This fundraiser is to raise awareness for childhood cancer and support her as she continues her treatment.

If possible, please donate to this cause or at least please share this link on social media to raise awareness to support this fundraiser:

https://fundraise.redkite.org.au/fundraisers/mountalverniacollege/your-way

Many blessings; wishing you and your family peace, joy, and beautiful weather over the Easter break.

Happy Easter!

Bridget Piper

La Cucina

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