Wellbeing 

Adult Seasons for Growth Program

Our Lady of Fatima warmly invites parents to express their interest in joining the Seasons for Growth program — a supportive and reflective series designed to foster resilience and healing. Sessions will be facilitated by Mrs Lisa Mann, creating a safe space for personal growth and shared stories.

Seasons for Growth is a small group education program that supports adults to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to understand and respond well to experiences of change, loss and grief.

Seasons for Growth supports adults who have experienced change and loss, including, family separation; loss or death of someone they care about; relocation and forced migration; physical or mental illness; or impacts of war, terrorism or pandemics. The program incorporates sound adult learning principles to help build resilience and promote the social and emotional wellbeing of adults as they adapt to change, loss and grief in their lives.

Seasons for Growth supports connection with others going through similar circumstances, fostering emotional literacy and resilience as a pathway to improved social and emotional wellbeing. Specifically, the program provides a safe learning environment for adults to:

• Acknowledge their experiences and recognise they are ‘not the only one’
• Understand that their feelings and other behavioral reactions are normal
• Develop skills for coping, positive choices, goal-setting and decision making
• Build a peer support network and a felt sense of belonging and connection
• Help restore self-confidence, self-esteem and self-respect

If you are interested in participating, please respond via email to: lisa.mann@syd.catholic.edu.au

Conversation starters for kids....

20 conversation starters for kids to use as a family

Looking for conversation starters for kids? Here are 20 questions we created for parents and carers to use at home.  Every year, Peer Support creates conversation starters for kids as part of our annual Talk-And-Walk-A-Thon event. These questions are from our 2023 event, but can be used any time.

Help your child learn conversation skills

Engaging in conversation with your kid is one of the best ways to teach them conversational skills.

Open and meaningful conversations can foster a strong relationship with your child and provide a safe space for kids to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.  Kids are more likely to open up and share their experiences when children feel heard and valued.

Some ways to do this include creating a safe space where kids feel comfortable sharing their feelings and thoughts, active listening, showing empathy, and role modelling good conversation.

You can read more about how to have great conversations with kids here.

Here are our conversation starters for kids....

1. If you could make three family rules, what would they be?
2. What are the most important things we’ve learnt from each other?
3. What do you like best about your siblings?
4. What do you think are the most important qualities of a good parent or carer?
5. What is your favourite family tradition?
6. What is your favourite thing about our family?
7. What should we do more of as a family?
8. What should we do less of as a family?
9. If you could change one thing about your room, what would it be?
10. What is something your parent or carer didn’t have growing up that you are glad you have?
11. What is something you don’t need, but you’re grateful you have?
12. What do you think is the best part about being a parent or carer?
13. If you could make a rule for a day and everyone had to follow it, what would it be?
14. What do you hope never changes?
15. What day do you look forward to the most each week or each year?
16. Among our family, what are you most famous for?
17. What was your best moment today?
18. What’s your favourite family memory?
19. What’s something you wish everyone knew about you?
20. When you’re feeling sad, what makes you feel better?

Come up with your own conversation starters too

Here are some tips on how to come up with your own conversation starters:

• Ask about their interests. For example, if your child loves soccer, ask something like “What do you like about playing soccer?”
• Use hypothetical questions. Kids often enjoy using their imagination. Ask questions that start with “What if” or “Imagine if.” For instance, “What if you could fly? Where would you go?”
• Talk about their day. Ask your child about their day at school or any activities they’ve been involved in. Questions like, “What was the best part of your day?”
• Discuss future plans: Encourage your child to share their dreams and goals. Ask questions like “If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?”
• Share personal experiences: Swap stories about an experience you have both had. For example, “I remember my first day of school. Do you remember yours? How did it feel?”
• Talk about animals and pets: Many kids love animals. Ask them about their favourite animals or if they have any pets. You can discuss fun facts about animals or share stories about your own pets.
• Discuss upcoming events: Talk about upcoming holidays, birthdays, or family outings. Ask for your child’s input on planning these events. For example, “What would you like to do for your birthday this year?”
• Use “Would you rather” questions: Kids often enjoy making choices. Present them with options and ask which one they prefer. For instance, “Would you rather go to Hawaii or Tokyo?”
• Ask for their opinions: Encourage your child to express their opinions on various topics. You can say, “What do you think about this new movie?” or “How do you feel about this new rule at school?”

Make conversation starter cards for kids

You can make your own conversation cards. Print and cut out the conversation starters listed above.  Use them around the dining table or on a family walk to prompt fun discussions and get to know each other better.

Conversation starters for kids: FAQs

1. Why are conversation starters important for children?

Engaging in conversation starters helps children develop communication skills, express their thoughts and feelings, and build stronger connections with their caregivers and peers. It encourages open dialogue and fosters healthy relationships.

2. What are age-appropriate conversation starters for kids?

Age-appropriate conversation starters vary based on a child’s developmental stage. Younger children might enjoy questions about their favourite toys, while older kids may prefer discussing school or hobbies. Tailor the topics to their age and interests.

3. How can I encourage my child to initiate conversations with me?

Create a warm environment where they feel safe expressing themselves. Show genuine interest in their interests and activities, and provide positive reinforcement when they share their thoughts.

4. What if my child seems uninterested in conversation starters?

Children can have varying moods and preferences. If your child appears uninterested, respect their feelings and give them some space. It’s crucial not to force conversations. They may open up when they’re ready.

5. How can I incorporate technology into conversation starters for kids?

Technology can be used as a tool for conversation. Share fun and educational videos, apps, or websites related to your child’s interests. You can discuss what they’ve learned or explore technology together as a bonding activity.

Mrs Lisa Mann  | Wellbeing Coordinator