Wellbeing
Hi Families,
Understanding the Term 4 ‘Stretch’
Term 4 has a flavour all of its own. As the weather warms up and the school year draws to a close, many children experience increased tiredness, big emotions, and changes in behaviour. If your child seems a little more unsettled than usual, they're not alone.
After three terms of learning, socialising, following routines, and managing emotions, children can begin to feel the effects of a long year. Added to this are special events, excursions, camps, transition visits, and thoughts about what next year might bring.
Some common signs of the "Term 4 stretch" include:
- Increased tiredness and difficulty getting up in the morning
- Trouble settling at bedtime
- Irritability, tearfulness, or emotional outbursts after school
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Friendship challenges
- Worries or mixed feelings about next year
These responses are often a normal reaction to fatigue, change, and uncertainty.
How Families Can Help
A few simple strategies can make a big difference:
- Prioritise sleep and recovery with a consistent bedtime routine.
- Create opportunities to talk about worries, successes, and things they are grateful for each day.
- Maintain predictable after-school routines to help children unwind and recharge.
- Discuss next year positively, focusing on both what will stay the same and what may change.
- Celebrate growth by reflecting on achievements and proud moments from the year.
- Encourage hydration, outdoor play, and rest, particularly as the weather becomes warmer.
Most importantly, remember that children don't need perfect solutions. They benefit most from patient, supportive adults who help them feel safe, understood, and connected.
As we move through Term 4, a little extra understanding and flexibility can go a long way in helping children finish the year feeling confident and ready for a well-earned break.
I hope we all have a wonderful Term 4! Plenty to look forward to as the warmer weather awaits us!
Acting Assistant Principal
Damien Smith