Student Wellbeing
ANXIETY, WORRIES and FEARS in CHILDREN
Dear Families,
For this week's wellbeing entry, I'd like us to take a dive into worry and anxiety and how this affects our children.
Many children experience moments of worry or anxiety during their school years, and this is a normal part of growing up.
Just like adults, children may feel nervous about new situations, changes in routine, friendships, or schoolwork. While these feelings can be uncomfortable, they are also a natural response to challenges and opportunities for growth.
I often explain to children that anxiety, worry and fear are all natural emotions. It’s common for children to feel anxious, worried or afraid. In most cases, these feelings come and go and don’t last long. In fact, different anxieties, fears and worries often develop at different stages of development.
In the context of school-aged children, children in primary school may experience fears such as ghosts/the dark, social situations, being criticised, tests, or getting hurt. As they grow older, particularly from around age 8, their worries can shift to include concerns about school or sporting performance, world events like war or pandemics, environmental issues, seperation and family relationships.
The Raising Children's Network offers parents some helpful tips and advice about what to do if your child is feeling anxious. I encourage all parents to reflect upon this useful resource if their child is experiencing worry and anxiety. I have included a link for you below:
What to do if your child is anxious...
It’s normal for children to feel anxious at times. As parents and carers, we can help by listening to their worries and reassuring them that many people feel this way. Encourage them to face challenges gradually, starting with the small ones, and praise their efforts along the way. Try to avoid labels like “shy” or “anxious,” and focus on building their confidence. A healthy routine with good food, regular exercise, and plenty of sleep also supports their wellbeing.
PEACEFUL KIDS
This week, our Peaceful Kids also worked their way through normalising their worries and acknowledging that worrying is a 'normal' feeling. Our children identified personal worries and worked through some mindfulness activities that help their brain to be calm.
Together, the children potted plants. The plant metaphor assisted children in understanding that a plant needs water, soil and sunlight to remain healthy, just like our brains need mindfulness to stay health. It was rewarding to see the children make the connection and develop strategies to 'normalise' their worries.
Wellbeing Support at Corpus Christi
If your child requires any wellbeing support, please do not hesitate to contact me so that we can work together to provide the right support.
Warm Regards,
Stephanie Stedman
Student Wellbeing and Learning Diversity Leader