Year 2
Wellbeing Bulletin
Learning Experience Overview
It has been a pleasure getting to know your children during the first month of the term. They have settled in well, and we are enjoying building positive relationships with each of them. During our classroom observations, we have noticed an increase in negative self-talk and some instances of unkind language between students. We know that learning to treat others with kindness begins with understanding how to treat ourselves with kindness and compassion. With this in mind, we created a wellbeing lesson to help students identify their characteristics and strengths.
To begin the lesson, we read the text ‘Be Exactly Who You Are!’ written by Laura Gehl and illustrated by Joshua Heinsz. This is a joyful and affirming picture storybook that celebrates individuality and self-acceptance. Through playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations, the story encourages children to embrace who they are, express themselves freely, and feel proud of what makes them unique. It delivers a positive message about confidence, kindness, and creating a world where everyone feels safe to be exactly who they are.
Learning Intention
We are learning to love who we are, so we know how to be a good friend to others.
Whole
To begin, we came together to break down the meaning of our Learning Intention. We asked the students to think about themselves and reflect on their unique qualities that make them who they are.
We then read the picture storybook, ‘Be Exactly Who You Are!’ by Laura Gehl.
Our discussion afterwards included the questions:
- Understanding the Message: Why is it important to be exactly who you are?
- Personal Reflection: What makes you special or different from other people?
- Feelings and Relationships: How can we show others that it is okay to be themselves?
- Story Connections: Did the story remind you of anything in your own life?
Small
After our in-depth discussion, using the resource below from our Friendology program, students created their own poster all about themselves:
It was so wonderful to see students take such pride and put thoughtful effort into exploring more about themselves.
Whole
At the end of the lesson, we gathered together to celebrate the effort students put into discovering what makes each of them special. We wrapped up by reminding them how important it is to appreciate and celebrate their own unique qualities.
To continue promoting this message at home with your children, we encourage you to:
Read the book ‘Be Exactly Who You Are!’ written by Laura Gehl and illustrated by Joshua Heinsz. As you read together, consider having an open conversation about why it’s important to be yourself and stay true to who you are.
Further books to read to encourage this message, include:
- The World Needs Who You Were Made To Be written by Joanna Gaines and illustrated by Julianna Swaney
- All the Ways to be Smart written by Davina Bell and illustrated by Allison Colpoys
Most of all, enjoy your time, reading and discussing important ideas together!
Steph and Georgia
Year 2 Team