Student Wellbeing
Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Last week students explored the importance of respect, understanding and unity between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
Our completed artwork beautifully reflects our school community coming together to learn, connect and walk forward together in the spirit of reconciliation.
Understanding Anxiety in Primary-Aged Children
Anxiety is the most common mental health challenge experienced by children, and it is entirely normal to experience some level of worry or fear. In fact, anxiety serves an important purpose, it alerts us to potential danger and helps us prepare for challenges.
However, when anxiety becomes persistent, disproportionate, or begins to interfere with daily life, it warrants closer attention.
In primary-aged children, anxiety can look quite different from adult anxiety. Common signs include:
- Frequent stomach aches or headaches with no medical cause
- Difficulty separating from parents or carers
- Avoidance of school, social situations, or new experiences
- Excessive reassurance-seeking or repetitive questioning
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Irritability, meltdowns, or emotional outbursts
It is important to note that anxious behaviour is not naughtiness or attention-seeking, it is a child communicating that they feel unsafe or overwhelmed.
What helps? Validation without reinforcement is key. Acknowledge your child's worry without dismissing it, while gently encouraging them to face the situation rather than avoid it. Avoidance typically makes anxiety stronger over time.
Consistent routines, calm responses from trusted adults, and gradual exposure to feared situations are all effective strategies. If anxiety is significantly impacting your child's daily life, speaking with your GP or classroom teachers is an important next step.
screens or distractions, sends a powerful message that your child matters and is valued.
