Wellbeing 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This week, in a number of classes, students have been working on character strengths in our respectful relationships while trialing our new lessons using the Readiness program, which supports both the Berry Street model and Respectful Relationships programs. The students have focused on Character Strengths—universal patterns in how we think, feel, and behave. These strengths are not just talents or skills, but reflections of our deepest passions and interests. When children utilise their strengths, they feel more energised, engaged, and operate at their optimal level, leading to a sense of being their authentic best.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3nT2KDAGOc

Why Character Strengths Matter: Research shows that when individuals identify, nurture, and grow their character strengths, they experience enhanced relationships, improved learning, better health, and greater well-being. Strengths also provide a buffer against challenges, helping us navigate life’s hurdles with resilience.

To support this learning experience, students watched the  video above in the older grades

and explored what character strengths are and how they contribute to happiness, energy, and stronger relationships. Each student identified their unique constellation of character strengths and brainstormed ways to use them to overcome everyday challenges.

Bringing Character Strengths Home: We’ve asked students to share with you how they’ve started creating daily habits to apply their strengths more consistently. These "strength habits" are small but powerful ways to make character strengths a regular part of daily life. You can encourage your child to talk about how these habits make them feel and discuss how the family might also adopt similar habits to amplify their own strengths.

Family Activities to Reinforce Character Strengths: Here are a few ideas to help reinforce character strengths at home:

Praise Wisely: When your child exemplifies a character strength like enthusiasm, honesty, or kindness, offer specific praise. For example, "I noticed how kind you were when you helped your sister/brother with their homework. That was a great example of kindness!"

Appreciate Their Strengths: If your child has a signature strength like curiosity, spend time exploring their questions. Discuss their thoughts on books, TV shows, or places you visit together. For children with honesty as a key strength, have open conversations about the importance of being true to oneself and others.

Link Strengths to Feelings: Help your child connect their actions to their emotions. For instance, if they show kindness, ask, "How did it feel when you used your strength of kindness to help Jane?"

Simon Brown - Wellbeing Leader