Assistant Principal's Report

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Building Habits of Connection at Home

As a parent of two young boys, Charlie (5) and Henry (9), I know that family life can be equal parts joyful, chaotic and humbling. There are moments when the wheels fall off, and other moments (often right after bedtime!) when the love we feel for our kids takes our breath away. Like all of you, I’m learning as I go - making mistakes, trying again and always looking for simple ways to show up with intention.

That’s why I found Dr. Justin Coulson’s recent piece, The Habits of Happy Families, so powerful. His seven habits aren’t about being perfect parents - they’re about practicing small, thoughtful shifts that build connection, trust, and emotional safety over time. Ideas like assuming positive intent (especially when your child is hangry or pushing boundaries) or fixing things fast after conflict - these are strategies I try to lean on in my own home, even when I don’t get them right the first time.

One of the habits that really landed with me was “Laugh Together.” It reminded me that our family’s inside jokes and silly traditions matter more than we realise. Whether it’s a Sunday pancake breakfast, a made-up game in the backyard (catch sick and tickle couch are big hits in the Lewis household), or just laughing at the same movie scene for the 100th time - these shared moments build resilience and remind our kids that home is a safe place to be themselves.

We’re all on a parenting journey. Articles like this aren’t here to judge or shame, but to offer fresh ideas and gentle nudges, like an upgrade for our parenting, not a critique of it. I encourage you to take a few minutes to read through the full piece below, reflect on what’s already working in your home and perhaps try one small habit that could make a big difference.

Warm regards,

Roland Lewis

Assistant Principal – Student Wellbeing