Wellbeing
Empowering Children as Agents of Their Own Wellbeing
At Galilee, we believe that children should be at the heart of their own wellbeing journey. Our approach encourages them to take an active role in looking after their emotional, social, cognitive and physical needs, helping them develop lifelong skills for a happy and healthy future.
Parents, as the primary educators, play a crucial role in this by modelling positive behaviours. Children learn best by example, so when they see adults prioritising self-care, managing emotions and fostering healthy relationships, they are more likely to adopt these habits themselves.
One fun way to support this at home is by creating a Family Wellbeing Agreement. This activity encourages open discussions about what each family member needs to feel happy, healthy and supported.
How to Create a Family Wellbeing Agreement:
- Gather Together – Set aside time as a family to talk about what wellbeing means to each of you.
- Brainstorm Ideas – Discuss what helps you feel good emotionally, socially, mentally and physically. These could be simple things like "more outdoor playtime," "screen-free dinners," or "kind words when someone is upset."
- Make a Plan – Write down a few key commitments that everyone agrees on, ensuring that each person has a voice.
- Model the Commitment – Parents should actively follow the agreement, demonstrating healthy habits and self-care.
- Get Creative – Decorate your agreement with drawings or symbols and put it somewhere visible as a daily reminder.
- Review & Adjust – Check in regularly to see what’s working and what might need tweaking.
By involving children in this process and leading by example, parents can help nurture a culture of wellbeing at home, equipping children with the skills they need to thrive. Give it a try and see how your family’s wellbeing flourishes!
Julie Ferguson and Paddy Edwards
Wellbeing Leaders