Pastoral Care

Supporting Your Child's Wellbeing During Holidays

Whilst school holidays are a time to relax, have fun and spend quality time with family and friends, it can also be challenging for those who struggle transitioning from a consistent school routine to holiday mode, or experience difficulties including loneliness, boredom, stress or anxiety. As parents, you play an important role in supporting your child's wellbeing during school holidays. 

Here are a few simple tips:

• Maintain a balance between structure and flexibility. Whilst it's good to have plans for your child to look forward to, it's also important to allow for spontaneity and creativity. You can help your child create a weekly schedule that includes a mix of fun, learning and relaxation, but also be open to changes and adjustments depending on their mood and interests. You can also encourage your child to set some goals and challenges for themselves, such as learning a new skill, reading a book, or completing a project.
• Encourage physical and mental health. Physical activity and healthy eating are essential for your child’s wellbeing, especially during school holidays when they may have more free time and less supervision. You can help your child stay active and healthy by joining them in sports, games, walks, bike rides, or other outdoor activities and by providing them with nutritious snacks and meals and limiting their intake of junk food and sugary drinks. Additionally, you can support your child's mental health by helping them practice mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises, or other relaxation techniques. You can also teach them coping strategies to deal with stress, anxiety, or negative emotions, such as talking to someone, writing in a journal, listening to music, or doing something they enjoy.
• Promote social and emotional connection. Social and emotional connection is vital for your child’s wellbeing, especially during school holidays when they may miss their friends, teachers, and school community. You can help your child stay connected by encouraging them to keep in touch with their friends and peers through phone calls, messages, video chats, or online games. You can also arrange some playdates, outings, or visits with other families or relatives, if possible and safe. Moreover, you can foster your child’s emotional connection by spending quality time with them, listening to their thoughts and feelings, expressing your love and appreciation, and having fun together.
• Provide information and support. School holidays can be a time of uncertainty and change for your child, especially if they are transitioning to a new school year, level, or environment. You can help your child prepare for the next term by providing them with relevant information and resources, such as school calendars, timetables, curriculum, expectations or tips. You can also reassure them that they are capable and ready, and that you are proud of them and their achievements. Furthermore, you can assist your child in accessing professional help and support if they are experiencing any mental health or wellbeing issues, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or self-harm. You can refer them to reputable online resources, including Be You, Student Wellbeing Hub, Headspace or ReachOut, GP, or a mental health service.

By following these tips, you can help your child enjoy their school holidays and maintain their wellbeing. Remember that you are not alone, there are many resources and services available to support you and your child. 

Wishing you all an enjoyable, relaxing and safe holiday break.

The Pastoral Care Team