Dear Parents,

As we move through the school term, we wanted to take a moment to share some insights from our counselling team about the most common concerns students have been bringing to us so far this year. Two key themes have emerged: stress or uncertainty due to things happening at home and navigating challenges related to social media. These issues can have a significant impact on children’s emotional wellbeing, and we encourage you to create open conversations at home to support your child about the world the experiences they are navigating.

1. Home Stress and Uncertainty

Many students have shared concerns about stressors at home, whether related to family changes, financial pressures, or general uncertainty. Children often internalize these challenges, which can lead to anxiety, difficulty concentrating at school, or changes in behaviour.

How Can You Support Your Child?

· Create a safe space for conversation – Let them know they can talk to you without fear of judgment.

· Validate their feelings – Even if the issue seems small to you, it may feel overwhelming to them. A simple “That sounds really tough, I’m here for you” can go a long way.

· Provide reassurance – Even when situations at home are uncertain, reassuring your child that they are loved and supported can help reduce their anxiety.

· Encourage healthy outlets – Activities like exercise, journaling, or creative hobbies can help them process emotions in a positive way.

2. Social Media Challenges

With the ever-changing digital landscape, students are facing increasing pressure online. Some of the main concerns we’ve heard about this term include cyberbullying, coercion, and the sharing of inappropriate images. These experiences can have serious emotional consequences, leading to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

Recognizing the impact of social media on mental health, Australia is implementing new laws raising the minimum age for social media use to 16 years old. This change is based on research linking early social media exposure to increased rates of depression and anxiety.

How Can You Support Your Child?

· Talk about digital boundaries – Ask them what they see and experience online and discuss the risks of sharing personal information or images.

· Encourage critical thinking – Help them recognize manipulation, coercion, or peer pressure in digital spaces.

· Promote screen-free time – Encouraging breaks from social media can improve mental wellbeing and social interactions. Can the whole family have tech locked away at a certain time until the next morning? How much time as a family do you use tech? Can you challenge each other to reduce the time?

· Know where to seek help – If your child is struggling, remind them they can speak to you, a trusted adult, or a school counsellor for support.

Keeping the Conversation Going

Your child may not always open up and talk right away, but consistent, open conversations can help them feel safe and supported. Try asking open-ended questions like, “What’s been on your mind lately?” or “How do you feel about what’s happening at home right now?” “What do you think about the social media minimum age?” These discussions help strengthen your connection and provide them with the guidance they need.

If you have concerns about your child’s emotional wellbeing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the school’s counselling team. We’re here to support you and your family.

Warm regards,

Renee and Tim

The Counselling Team

The Rivergum Café