Principal's Message

A Key to Building Resilient Kids- Embrace The Struggle

An area of interest for me is students' resilience in the classroom and how some students will persevere while others are quick to give up..

It's a common sight in classrooms and homes alike: a child is facing a challenge, a tricky maths problem, or a frustrating LEGO build, and a well-meaning adult swoops in to solve it. We all do it. As parents and teachers, our instinct is to protect our children from difficulty and frustration. We want to see them succeed and spare them from the discomfort of struggling.

But what if, in our eagerness to help, we're actually hindering their growth? Research shows that allowing children to grapple with problems and even fail is one of the most powerful ways to help them develop resilience, independence, and problem-solving skills.

Think of it like building a muscle. If an adult always lifts the heavy weights for a child, their own muscles will never get stronger. Similarly, when we constantly jump in to fix things, we deny children the opportunity to learn how to navigate challenges on their own. The act of struggling—of trying different approaches, making mistakes, and finally finding a solution—is where true learning happens. It teaches them that they are capable, that persistence pays off, and that it's okay to not get things right on the first try.

This isn't about letting children struggle without support. It’s about being a guide on the side, not a rescuer. We can offer encouragement, ask open-ended questions to guide their thinking ("What have you tried so far? What do you think might happen if you did it this way?"), and provide a safe space for them to express their frustration without judgment.

By working together, we can empower our children to become confident, capable individuals who aren't afraid of a challenge. Let's make a conscious effort to step back, take a deep breath, and allow them the invaluable gift of the struggle.

This collaborative approach—between home and school—is the best way to prepare our children for a future where they can confidently face challenges and thrive as independent, resilient adults.

Regards

Leisa Shortis

Acting Principal