Well Being News

Wellbeing Update: Newsletter Week 10, Term 1, 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

As part of the Wellbeing news for this week, I have provided some more information on PBL at St Kevin’s.

Acknowledging Positive student behavior

When we see or hear students demonstrating positive they are acknowledged. Staff are asked to verbally congratulate students for what they have done and link it to one of our school values. For example: ‘Fiona, I like the way you demonstrated respect when you shared your pencils with your learning partner’

Students will then be given a PBL ticket. Students collect the PBL tickets and have the opportunity to swap them for a reward when they have accumulated a certain amount. Below are a copy of the rewards for the Junior students and for the middle / senior students.

Classes are currently auditing their Reward charts to ensure that we have student voice for choice of rewards.

Expected Behaviour Focus: I keep my hands, feet and objects to myself

Over the last few weeks, the whole school has been focusing on the expected behaviour of ‘I keep my hands, feet and objects to myself’, especially when at play during recess and lunchtime. Each day staff have been nominating a student from their class who has demonstrated this behaviour and they have been receiving a ‘Principal’s Reward’ for demonstrating the value of Respect! Congratulations to all of the students who have received a ‘Principal’s Reward’ so far this term.

School Holidays and Mindfulness

One of the ways in which we can all improve our overall well being is through mindfulness activities.

Mindfulness activities are important for children because they help them develop crucial skills like focus, self-regulation, and emotional awareness, leading to improved attention, reduced stress, and enhanced social skills.

School holidays, especially with Easter activities, can be a busy time and it is a good reminder to try to plan some quiet or peaceful time into our days. Below are some ideas for mindfulness activities for children

Morning Mindfulness Rituals:

Start your day with intention! Engage in a short mindfulness ritual with your child. This could be a simple breathing exercise, a moment of gratitude, or even a "mindful breakfast" where you focus on each bite. Setting a positive tone early on can influence the entire day.

Nature Walk Adventures:

Take advantage of the beautiful outdoors. Explore parks, bush trails, beaches, or even your own backyard. Encourage your child to observe the colours, smells, and sounds around them. Engaging with nature is a wonderful way to ground both you and your little one in the present moment.

Crafting Connection:

Get creative together! Set up a crafting station with supplies for an afternoon of artistic expression. Not only does this promote mindfulness through focus and creativity, but it also provides an opportunity for quality bonding time. Share stories, laughter, and joy as you create together.

Tech-Free Zones:

Designate certain times of the day as tech-free zones. This allows you and your child to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other. Play board games, engage in imaginative play, or simply enjoy each other's company without the distractions of technology.

Gratitude Jar:

Create a family gratitude jar. Encourage your child to write or draw something they're thankful for each day and share it during mealtime. This simple practice fosters a positive mindset and reminds everyone of the abundance of joy in their lives.

Mindful Eating Moments:

Transform mealtime into a mindful experience. Encourage your child to savour each bite, paying attention to textures, flavours, and smells. Use this time to connect through conversation, sharing the highlights of your day. Mindful eating not only supports wellbeing but also strengthens family bonds.

Quiet Reading Nooks:

Create cosy reading nooks for moments of quiet reflection. Encourage your child to pick out a favourite book, and share the joy of reading together. This peaceful activity can be a wonderful way to wind down and relax, promoting both mindfulness and a love for literature.

I would like to thank all of our students for the contributions they make in creating a school that values Respect, Resilience and Responsibility. .

Best wishes for a great Easter and school holidays.

Fiona George

Wellbeing Leader