Wellbeing

KINDNESS

Last week was International Kindness Week. A time we can reflect and remember how acts of kindness and compassion — both giving and receiving — can increase wellbeing no matter how old or young you are. We all have experienced benefits from kindness, compassion and giving, these benefits can be a greater sense of contentment or wellbeing, good mental health, less stress, better relationships and connections.  Usually culminating in a smile inside and outside.

Have you heard of the ‘positive feedback loop’ where the happiness people get from giving to others makes a difference and the more you give, the more positive you feel resulting in greater contentment or wellbeing. One kind act leads to others, hence the ‘positive feedback loop’. This can also encourage others to do the same like a ripple effect. People who are on the receiving end of someone's kindness can also become kinder and more compassionate.

Acts of kindness do not have to be huge. It can be as simple as a smile and a ‘thank you’, noticing someone and making a positive comment to them, touching base with someone that you haven’t seen for a while, helping out an elderly neighbour or dropping off a meal to someone that you know has been doing it tough.   

It is important to remember that we never know what others are going through.  A kind word and a smile can make a real difference to someone who is struggling. 

YOUNG CHILDREN AND THE NEWS

We are coming across news about the Gaza conflict on television and in the newspapers. Some students may even be accessing this information through various media channels. Some can be quite graphic and disturbing for our young children. Younger children may not be equipped to process the level of information they may receive through watching the news or reading newspapers so be cautious about what they are taking in whilst you are watching- it’s amazing what they are taking in even if you think they are playing or otherwise occupied! With older children you will need to decide your self as a family if they can cope with what they are hearing and seeing.  The following steps might assist you;

1. Preview Content:

• Prior to allowing your children to watch or read news about the Gaza conflict, preview the content yourself. This will help you gauge the appropriateness and readiness of your child to engage with the information.

2. Filter Information:

• Be mindful of the news sources you expose your children to. If you opt for your child to view the news, choose reputable and age-appropriate news outlets to ensure the information is presented in a way that is suitable for their understanding.

3. Age-Appropriate Discussions:

• Tailor your discussions based on your child's age. Younger children may need simplified explanations, focusing on the importance of safety and reassurance. Older children may be able to comprehend more complex aspects of the situation, but it is crucial to maintain an open dialogue.

4. Encourage Questions:

• Create an environment where your child feels comfortable asking questions. Encourage them to express their thoughts and emotions, and be prepared to provide age-appropriate answers. If you don't know the answer, it's okay to say that you'll find out together.

5. Monitor Screen Time:

• Limit the time your child spends consuming news about the Gaza conflict. Excessive exposure to distressing content can be overwhelming for children. Balance screen time with activities that promote well-being and positivity. Be conscious too that social media is full of references and links to quite explicit and disturbing information and graphics. 

6. Emphasize Empathy:

• Foster empathy by helping your child understand that conflicts involve real people with feelings and experiences. Encourage them to consider the perspectives of others and discuss the importance of peace and understanding.

7. Be a Role Model:

• Children often model their behaviour after the adults in their lives. Demonstrate healthy news consumption habits and positive coping mechanisms. Your reactions and responses will influence how your child perceives and manages difficult information.

8. Provide Reassurance:

• Reassure your child that they are safe and that there are people working towards peaceful solutions. Emphasize the role of communities, countries, and international organizations in promoting peace and understanding.

9. Seek Professional Help if Needed:

• If you notice that your child is deeply affected by the news or is struggling to cope, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional or counsellor.