Student Wellbeing and Learning

Helping Your Child Feel Calm and Confident

Our Lost in the Movies production is fast approaching, with performances on Wednesday 16 September and Thursday 17 September! Our students have been working incredibly hard, and we are so excited to see them take to the stage.

While performing can be exciting, it is also completely normal for children to feel nervous. Butterflies, a wobbly tummy or feeling unsure are all normal responses when doing something that feels important. The best thing we can do is acknowledge the nerves rather than trying to make them disappear. A simple, “It’s okay to feel nervous. Lots of people feel that way before performing, and you’ve practised and you’re ready!” can make a big difference.

Some simple ways you can help at home:

Normalise the nerves: Let your child know that being nervous is completely normal.
Keep it positive: Talk about the fun and exciting parts of being involved rather than whether they will remember everything.
Keep practice low-pressure: If they want to practise, let them perform for the family, a toy or even the family pet! There is no need to over-practise.
Praise bravery and effort: Focus on having a go, participating and enjoying themselves rather than being perfect.
Practise a calm-down strategy: Try a few slow breaths together and a positive phrase such as “I can do this!” or “I don't have to be perfect.”
Avoid adding pressure: Instead of “Are you nervous?” or “Don't forget your moves!”, try “I can't wait to see you have fun!”
Remind them that mistakes are OK: If they forget a move, miss a word or do something differently, they can simply keep going. The audience won't know what was supposed to happen!
Model calmness: Children often take their cues from the adults around them, so your calm and positive attitude can help them feel safe and confident.

Most importantly, remind your child that they don't have to be perfect. They just need to have fun and enjoy the experience! Our staff will be there to support them throughout the performance, and we are incredibly proud of the effort every student has put into making Lost in the Movies something special.

If your child is particularly worried, please encourage them to talk to you, their classroom teacher or me (Mrs Dunne) so we can support them.

For further information, the Raising Children Network – Anxiety in Children and Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne – Anxiety in Children have excellent Australian resources for parents and carers.

Thankyou,

Ashley Dunne.