Chaplain’s Spot

We all want to empower our children to make a difference in the world. Here are 5 things to help them in this goal.

1) Start Young: I believe that if they are raised from the beginning with the idea that they can make a difference at any age, it will become as natural as breathing for them. I am constantly thinking of ways to get them involved in service projects. You are never too young to make a difference for someone.

2) Lead by Example: What better way to teach your child than to actually display the desired behavior yourself. You are your child’s number one teacher! They are watching you. Kids are like sponges, and they soak up every little detail, whether you notice it or not. If they see you doing something to make a difference, they will likely start to imitate that behavior. Have a “Watch what I do, and you can do it too” attitude!

3) Use Books to Motivate: Another great way is by reading books with that theme. It is a fun, simple way to get a message through. The “I Can Change the World” books from I See Me! are a great example of books that would encourage and motivate kids. “You have the power each day when you awake to make our world better with the choices you make,” and “Start out really simple and show us your smile. It gets passed to each person from mile to mile!” it shows how easy it is for even the youngest child to make a difference.

4)Start within the Family: One of the best places to start encouraging kids to make a difference is within your family. There are plenty of opportunities to help within your home. Explain how picking up their toys makes a difference to you. It might make you happier and allow you more time for other fun activities with them. I’m sure you can think of plenty of other reasons why certain tasks would make a difference within your home. They may not always understand or obey what you say, but it’s a great place to start!

5) Show Examples of What Other Kids are Doing: Show your kids what other kids are doing in the world. It’s about showing them that kids truly CAN make a difference. It might also help them understand that if kids out there are doing such projects, then they are capable to do a small act to make a difference. It could encourage them, or even provide ideas that they might want to try.

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There are so many benefits for teaching kids that they can make a difference. It could help build their self-esteem and confidence. They will get exposure to a variety of learning experiences. The values of kindness and helping others is important in all aspects of their lives as they grow into adults. And of course, all of the wonderful things they do to will make a big impact even greater than just themselves!

Advance Notice:

On June 6th, I will be organising an “Exploring Feelings" Day, and students are invited to attend between noon and 3.15. There will be poster, worksheets and others resources to assist the students. We will talk about how these feelings arise, and what strategies could be most helpful for them.

Meal Train roster: If you would like to cook a meal during Term 2 – May 22, June 5 and 19, please check out the link. https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/vlwooz

Toast Tuesday roster: Our Term 2 roster for Toast Tuesday helpers is full for the rest of term. Thanks to our faithful assistants.

Second-hand uniforms: We have received more winter items, so check them out on Tuesday morn!

Emergency food items: Each Tuesday morning we will have our non-perishable food trolley at Toast Tuesday. We would welcome any contributions being dropped off then, and we also welcome anyone who would like to take some items for their families.

Baby clothes: We have had a great bag of baby clothes donated. Some families have benefitted from this donation. We will keep the rest of the items until the end of term. After that I will take them to Vinnies. Come and check them out if you need anything.

FRIDAY FUN: Today’s is: What type of candle burns longer – a yellow one or a green one? Neither – all candles burn shorter!

Contact: If you need to contact me, you can email, phone, or see me on my days at school.

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Alan Silverwood: Chaplain - Pastoral care for our community. [Monday, Tuesday, Friday]

[alan.silverwood@education.vic.gov.au]

Supporting our School in emotional, social, spiritual and practical wellbeing.

Our Chaplaincy program is funded by the Federal Government’s ‘National Student Wellbeing Program’, the GRPS School Council and donations.