KINDNESS IS CATCHING...AT ST JAMES!

Each Monday morning, our SRC will share an important message about the value of Kindness. Today, Manu and Evie shared this:

This week, our focus is on Kind Words. Kindness begins with the way we speak to others. Friendly words can make someone feel happy, included, and respected. Saying good morning, thank you, well done, or asking someone how they are can make a big difference. We should also remember that words can hurt when they are unkind. That is why it is important to think before we speak and choose words that build others up. This week, let’s challenge ourselves to use kind words every day in the classroom, on the playground, and at home.

Congratulations to the following students who received a Kindness Award at the assembly.

Week 1: Tom, Willow, Poppy, Talia, Tessa, Elijah, Hazel, Andre, Kaitlyn, Morgan, Bethany, Oliver.

REAL LIFE - PARENT AND FAMILY SESSIONS

Please indicate your attendance (Years 2–6) via the Nforma Form sent last Thursday. These sessions are always a very positive experience for both children and parents, and we encourage you to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity!

SEASONS FOR GROWTH PROGRAM - EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST WELCOME

At St James, we are committed to supporting students’ wellbeing and emotional development. Next term, we will be offering a small group program called Seasons for Growth, designed to help children build skills in understanding and managing feelings such as change, loss, friendships, and life challenges.

Seasons for Growth provides students with a safe and supportive space to share, reflect, and learn positive coping strategies alongside their peers.

Seasons for Growth supports children and young people who have experienced change and loss, including, although not limited to, friendship changes; family separation; loss or death of someone they care about; loss of a pet; relocation and forced migration; living away in out-of-home care; physical or mental illness; or impacts of war, terrorism or pandemics.

We are currently inviting families to express interest in their child participating in this program. If you feel your child would benefit from being part of a Seasons for Growth group, please contact me via email, and I will be happy to provide further information.

PARENTING SUPPORT - HEALTH ABILITY

Please continue to reach out via email or phone should you have any questions or concerns. I am always happy to chat or meet with you to discuss anything wellbeing related, and to work together in supporting your child’s social, emotional, and learning needs.

Monica De Leo

Student Wellbeing Leader

monica.deleo@sjvermont.catholic.edu.au

Victorian Child Safety Standards

Here is the Catholic Education Council of Victoria's revised statement of commitment to Child Safety which we abide by:

Parent Resources

Click here for access to the Smiling Mind Website

Smiling Mind’s vision is to help every mind thrive. Their mission is to provide accessible life-long tools to support healthy minds.

Click here for access to the Student Wellbeing Hub Website

It includes sections for parents, teachers and students with practical strategies and resources to support your child's wellbeing.

Click here for Raising Children Network

Reliable, and up-to-date information to help your family grow and thrive together.

Click here for access to Parenting Ideas Blog

It includes articles, testimonials and practical tips on a wide variety of topics.

Click here for Iparent - Office of eSafety Commissioner

To learn about the digital environment and how to help your child have safe and enjoyable online experiences.

Click here for access to CatholicCare

It is a social service agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, they offer a range of programs and services that aim to build and strengthen relationships.

Click here for access to Beyond Blue

This website is regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time. And you can stay up-to-date by joining our email community.

Positive Parenting Telephone Service 1800 880 660

Participants complete a workbook or online modules which are supported by weekly 30 minute phone calls with a trained parenting educator. All of this can be done from the comfort of your own home at a time that suits you.

Parentline 13 22 89

Parentline is available 8am to midnight, 7 days a week. It is a confidential and anonymous phone counselling service for parents and carers of children and teenagers in Victoria.

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

The Kids Helpline is Australia's only free, private, and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. Counselling is currently offered by phone, Webchat and email.

Digital Technologies