Student Wellbeing
Welcome back to Term 1! We hope you all had a restful and enjoyable break and are feeling ready for a positive and settled start to the term. It has been wonderful to see students return with enthusiasm, reconnect with friends, and settle back into their learning environments.
At the beginning of the term, all students were given the opportunity to apply for a GEM Leadership position. This is an important role within our school community, as GEM Leaders help promote Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness across the school. Their contribution supports a culture where wellbeing can thrive, and where students feel safe, included and encouraged to be their best selves each day. We value the leadership our GEM Leaders provide in helping to strengthen our positive school culture.
As Wellbeing Leaders, we are committed to supporting the growth, safety and wellbeing of every child. We believe that children thrive when school and family work together to build strong emotional foundations, healthy habits and positive relationships.
Healthy Habits
Healthy technology use plays an important role in supporting children’s wellbeing and development. For primary-aged children, delaying access to social media for as long as possible is strongly recommended. Where children are using devices, families are encouraged to keep devices out of bedrooms overnight, set consistent screen time limits, and maintain open conversations about online safety and respectful digital behaviour. The eSafety Commissioner remains a trusted source of information, offering practical guidance to support families in navigating the online world safely.
When supporting children’s viewing choices, it is helpful to prioritise age-appropriate, positive and meaningful content. Co-viewing programs, movies, and videos where possible allows families to connect with children through discussion about characters, emotions and messages. Content that promotes kindness, friendship, problem-solving and emotional understanding can positively support children’s social and emotional development.
Supporting students who experience separation worries
Some children may experience separation anxiety or worries, particularly at the start of a new term. Families can support by acknowledging feelings while remaining calm and confident during drop-offs. Predictable morning routines, brief and positive goodbye moments, and encouraging small steps towards independence can help children feel safe and secure. Simple strategies such as breathing exercises and maintaining consistent routines can also support emotional regulation.
Positive self-talk
Positive self-talk is a powerful tool in building resilience, confidence and emotional wellbeing. Families can support children by modelling encouraging language, such as “I can try my best” or “I will keep going even if it is hard.” Praising effort, persistence and progress rather than perfection helps develop a growth mindset. Celebrating small achievements and reflecting on challenges together can further strengthen positive thinking habits.
We thank our families for your ongoing partnership in supporting the wellbeing of every child. Together, we continue to nurture a safe, caring and connected school community where all students can thrive.
TRP Parent Workshop
If you missed our workshop and wanted to know more about The Resilience Project, Penola Catholic College are hosting “Building resilience at home” Please see the flyer if you’re interested.
Wellbeing Team Vicky Karalis & Bianka Zorzut