Health & Wellbeing
Connecting over the Holidays.
Coming into the holiday period for students can be quite a relief after a busy first term. Whilst our students are having a break from school routine, as we know this does not mean that their parents or caregivers necessarily have a break too. Connecting with our young people in the break can be a challenge for different reasons, but with the change of routine can be an optimal time to come together.
There can be the temptation leading up to the break to compile a list of to-do chores around the house, appointments to attend to and other matters that are difficult to find time to address in the business of a school term. Perhaps consider in the holidays to compile a list of ways you, as a parent or caregiver would like to engage with your young person, then provide them with your list and ask them to compile one of their own or to add to yours.
The list would be dependent on time available, resources and interests. It can be a way to show your young person that you value and enjoy their company. You may choose to ask your young person to indicate Y, N or M (yes, no or maybe), but you may also choose to make some compulsory.
Aside from any already planned activities or responsibilities here are some ideas to consider (I have suggested local events as we don’t always have the opportunity to get away), remember some of these things may not be of interest to you, but sometimes we need to meet others half way if we are asking them to do the same:
Day trips, movie night, cooking or baking together, pizza night, walking, cycling, yoga, online exercise classes, other sports or physical activity, camp fire, gaming, go to the beach or river, picnic, Botanic gardens, nature walks, bowling, markets, museum, library.
HERE is a great resource for further information about things to see and do in our region.
A reminder … coming up to the commencement of the new school year in 2024, it is great if our young people can be in routine for sleep. Holidays are a wonderful opportunity to abandon the need for early school mornings and reasonable bed times, however, it is also extremely important to commence the school year with a good routine, feel energized for a fresh start to the new year. This is a good plan for adults too!
The holiday season can be a wonderful break, for some, it can also bring challenges. If you or someone you care about needs some additional support for wellbeing or mental health over the break, you may find some of the following resources helpful. This information is also available permanently on the student wellbeing platform (see icon below).
I hope the festive season is just what you need it to be.
Rachel Smith | College Counsellor