Wellbeing and Inclusion Update
Dear Wollert Community,
Our attendance data has shown strong improvement in 2025. Thank you to all of our families for the ongoing effort you put into getting your children to school each day. In Term 4, important learning is still taking place, and this continues right up until the final day of term.
Last week, we invited families to submit questions, and our first parent question focused on anxiety during school drop-offs. Below is some guidance and support that may assist.
Understanding What’s Going On
It is very common for primary-aged children to experience anxiety when separating from parents or when adjusting to school routines. This may look like:
- Crying or clinging at drop-off
- Tummy aches or feeling unwell
- Worrying in the days leading up to school
- Needing lots of reassurance
Big emotions after school
This does not mean something is “wrong” at school. It simply means your child’s brain is still learning how to feel safe and confident away from you. This is a normal part of growing up.
What Helps at Home
1. Keep mornings calm and predictable
- Prepare bags, uniforms and lunches the night before.
- Limit screen time before school.
- A simple picture routine can help younger students.
2. Acknowledge their feelings
Try:
“I know this feels hard. Your feelings are real. And I also know you can do this.”
Avoid:
“There’s nothing to worry about” or “Stop crying.”
3. Create a short, positive goodbye routineHug → encouraging phrase → handover to staffKeep it brief — longer goodbyes can actually increase anxiety.
Suggested script.
“I love you and I’ll see you after school. You’ve got this.”
What Helps at School
1. Predictable handover to a known adult
A teacher or staff member greets the child so the parent can confidently leave.
2. Give the child a purposeful job on arrival
A sense of responsibility builds confidence. Examples: handing out pencils, returning books, setting up materials.
3. Encourage small, everyday independence
- Walking from the gate
- Carrying their own bag
Greeting a classmate
4. Keep drop-offs quickMost students settle within minutes once parents leave.
Helpful Phrases (for Parents and Staff)
| Instead of… | Try saying… |
|---|---|
| “Don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” | “You’ve done hard things before — you can do this too.” |
| “I’ll stay until you’re okay.” | “I’ll hand you to Miss X. She will look after you.” |
| “Do you want to stay home?” | “School is a safe place, and we go every day.” |
Key Message for Families
Your child doesn’t need the worry to disappear to be okay. They just need your calm tone, consistent routines, and warm encouragement.
You are helping them learn:
“I can feel worried and still do it.”
That is the heart of resilience.
If you’d like more support, please reach out to your classroom teacher or our wellbeing team.