Wellbeing

Halftime

As we approach the end of Term 2, the midway point of the school year, I find myself thinking about the many ‘half-time chats’ that I sat through as a basketball player. Our whole team would leave the court and gather together in the change rooms. Our coaches would use this time to review our game so far, evaluate the effectiveness of our offense and defence and make adjustments to our team game plan as we moved forward into the second half. As well as a whole team review, our coach would also give individual feedback, providing encouragement and correction to each of us. Then as we returned to the court for the second half, we had clarity, were united and approached the remainder of the game with a fresh burst of direction and motivation.

As Term 2 comes to an end, parents and caregivers have an opportune moment to catch their breath and together with their children, carve out some time in these upcoming school holidays, for reflection, adjustments, and renewed focus. By treating this holiday break as halftime—a pivotal moment to reassess, adjust, and prepare—you can help your child start Term 3 with renewed enthusiasm and purpose.

H - Harness Progress: Take time to review and celebrate your child's achievements so far. Look through their school reports together and acknowledge their successes and discuss areas where they can improve.

A - Aim for Goals: Spend some time setting clear and achievable goals for the remainder of the year to help provide direction and motivation.

L - Lay Out Schedules: Review your child's routines and schedules. Are there things that need to be added or removed? Has there been enough time for study, physical activity, social connection and relaxation?

F – Family fun: While you have your schedules out, book in some family fun for the remainder of the year. A night out, or a night in or maybe a weekend away. Games, movies, campfires, walks – find a way to build connection in your family and book it in.

T - Tidy Up Spaces: We often start the school year with good intentions, how is their study area looking? Is it free from distractions and equipped with necessary supplies? Encourage your child to take ownership of this space and make changes if needed.

I – Improve Skills: Use these 3 weeks to improve skills in an area that your child enjoys or to try a new activity – such as bike riding, cooking, writing, a sport, coding, gardening, art or music.

M – Make Meaningful Connections: Encourage your child to engage in activities that allow them to make and develop meaningful connections with friends and family.

E – Encourage Rest and Relaxation: Lastly, allow your child time to relax and recharge during the break – however that looks for them.

Now, as Term 2 wraps up, parents and caregivers, it's your turn to take a breather with your children. Use this time to celebrate their wins so far, set some new goals together, and maybe shake up their routines a bit. Plan some family fun—whether it's a cozy night in or an adventure outdoors. Encourage them to explore new skills or dive deeper into their passions. And don't forget to give them plenty of downtime to recharge their batteries however they like best. Let's gear up for Term 3 with fresh energy and excitement!

Caz Nyhouse

Secondary Teacher/Year 7 Coordinator