Wellbeing Newsletter

The end of year is fast approaching and with it comes change. Change is a natural part of growth, and for children, it can be both exhilarating and daunting. The thought of the current familiar setting ending or the prospect of a new year with a different teacher/year level can bring a mix of excitement and fear—will they like their new teacher? Will they make new friends? In the face of these uncertainties, children may experience anxiety or sadness about leaving behind familiar surroundings.

Ways to Support Your Child

Open Conversations: Start by initiating conversations about their feelings regarding the changes they will experience. Encourage your child to express any concerns they may have. Listening to their thoughts will help them process their emotions and feel understood.
Highlight Positives: Focus on the positive aspects of the transitions. Talk about the exciting opportunities that come with new classrooms and teachers. Discuss the possibility of making new friends and learning new things, fostering a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm.
Be Your child’s Coach: Just like a sports coach, give your chid some advice tips and guidance without playing the game for them. Build in them a belief that they can navigate these situations and that you believe in them and trust them. Try not to project your anxieties or concerns on to them.

Last week I asked some of our students how they felt about the end of year approaching and starting in a new class in 2025. It was great to see how resilient our students are and to note that we may worry more about change than our children. You may like to share these thoughts with your child/children to

It’s okay to have different people in your new class because you can make new friends. Maybe you can ask your brothers or sisters about your new teacher.

Phonex Yr1

I do 5 fingers breathing until I don’t feel scared anymore. I breath in and out as I put one finger up and down until I have put all 5 fingers up and down.

Alba Yr 1

I find my old friends at recess and lunch – now I have them and my new friends!

Cormac Yr 1

It didn’t worry me much this year. I was a bit excited.

Bryn.

Take some deep breaths and say it’s okay. I have made new friends this year so I know I can do it again.

Sam Yr2

It’s okay as I know more people in the Grade this year than I did last year. You can make new friends. It could be boring if you always stayed in the same class.

ChloeYr2

If you feel a bit stressed about it, go hang out with a friend talk to them or someone you love and trust.

Amara Yr 2

I know I have feelings about it but you can stop thinking about it and think of something else.

Will Yr 2

If you don’t have a friend to play with in the new class you can ask someone to be your friend.

Charlotte Yr 2

I could get excited about being with people I know in other grades.

Bailey Yr 2

I don’t really think about it. I know I’m going to be ok.

Saski Yr 3

I say it’s going to be ok because I’m going to make more friends. I kind of get excited and nervous. I’ve done it before and been ok. Jax Yr 3

It doesn’t really worry me. I get excited as it’s one year closer to leaving school and being a dancer.

Olivia Yr 3

When I choose my 5 friends I make sure I have I good friend who will be supportive of me. I’m nervous about mixing classes as I don’t really know the Year 5’s so I’m thinking about now and that will come when it comes. I’m also excited about mixing classes as I might be with a friend from a different year level.

Ginger Yr 4

I always choose friends I can trust. I am a bit nervous as I don’t know what a mixed class is like but I’m thinking positive. I’m not spending much time thinking about it.

Zac Yr 4

It’s important to choose friends you have good relationships with so you don’t fight in class.

Winnie Yr 4

I think about the positive things, like we are going to be the leaders of the school. If you are sad about not seeing a friend or teacher you can see them in the yard – look on the bright side of things. Alex Yr 5

Sometimes I get a bit nervous but what I think about is on the brighter side – it’s going to be a great year. Sometimes it doesn’t always go your way but you have to make it – have a good attitude. Esther Yr 5

It's a fresh start and chance to meet new people. I think being with new teachers is exciting. Isla Yr 5

I personally believe if you believe it will be a good year it will be. You have to remember you are not the only one feeling that way and you are always going to have a friend in the class. When you are wanting to make new friends, don’t wait for them to come to you – ask them. Roxana Yr 5

Go with the flow. It’s exciting.

Walter Yr 6

Just think of it like Primary School. Focus on one step at a time. Zoe Yr 6

It’s a big new adventure.

Inara Yr 6

I’m a little nervous but that’s in the future. I am excited. Chloe Yr 6