Wellbeing @ NLPS
Student Wellbeing Month
What a wonderful Student Wellbeing Month we had! During this month we prioritised finding balance in our everyday lives, through increased Physical, Social and Mental health. We focused on the three pillars of a healthy life, by promoting self-care and looking at Diet, Exercise and Sleep.
Children had the opportunity to:
- partake in buddy class sessions with children from other grades
- engage in extra lunchtime activities
- have regular fruit breaks at 10am
- participate in many mindful activities such as, Yoga, Zumba, writing a gratitude list, breathing techniques, and focusing on positive affirmations.
Classroom teachers also based maths lessons around the importance of having good sleep health with children, and collected data to as a class analyse the times children in their grades go to bed. Alarmingly a few children in each grade have confessed to sneaking a phone or iPad into their rooms, to continue watching or playing, when their parents believe they are asleep. With this in mind, we ask all families to continue to monitor the location of devices in your home at night.
For families who were unable to attend the ‘Improving Sleep in School-Aged Children webinar,’ here is a direct link to the video so that you may watch it at a more convenient time. https://youtu.be/QCmHVI4jbWM
We hope your children found the month beneficial, and that you continue to prioritise self-care during this busy time of year.
The end of the school year is fast approaching and with it comes the joy of the summer holidays however, it also brings about change
Change can make us feel unsure, nervous, even a little worried about what might happen next as we leave familiar friends and teachers and look towards new ones in 2024.
Transitioning to a new year level in Primary School is a significant milestone in a young person’s life. It brings about various changes, including shifts in friendships, new teachers, cognitive growth and emotional development. This period can be both exciting and challenging for both children and parent/carers. Understanding the transition process and offering appropriate support can help children embrace the changes and thrive in their new environment.
What we might expect during transition
Changes to Friendships: Year level transitions often lead to changes in social dynamics. Children may find themselves in different classes, separated from close friends, or forming new bonds with classmates they did not interact with previously. While some children adapt well to these changes, others might feel anxious or even lonely. Listen attentively to your child’s feelings and experiences during this time, offering comfort and encouragement.
New Friendships: Transitioning to a new year level provides children with opportunities to form new friendships and broaden their social circles. Encouraging open-mindedness and providing opportunities for social interaction can help children develop new relationships. Parents and carers may choose to arrange playdates or extra-curricular activities to foster these connections.
New Teachers: We all remember a favourite teacher, or someone we are already familiar with as a result of previous interactions with an older child. Each student is an individual and each student creates their own, unique relationship with their teacher. New teachers can be a source of both excitement and apprehension. Parents and carers can support their children by discussing the positive aspects of having a new teacher, such as the chance to learn different teaching styles and gaining fresh perspectives. Reinforcing the idea that change is a natural part of life, can help ease their concerns.
Cognitive Growth and Emotional Development: Year level transitions often coincide with periods of significant cognitive growth and emotional development. Children are exposed to more complex ideas and challenges that contribute to their intellectual and emotional maturity. Continue to encourage your children to embrace new learning opportunities and provide guidance when necessary.
What parents can do to support transition:
Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your child about their feelings and experiences. Listen actively and validate their emotions, reassuring them that it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness during transitions.
Routine and Structure: Consistency is essential during times of change. Stick to regular routines at home to provide a sense of stability for your child. Ensuring we arrive on time for the first few days of the new school year can help reduce the stress of being the last one into a new classroom.
Encouragement: Praise your child for their resilience and efforts during the transition. Recognise their achievements, no matter how small and provide positive reinforcement.
Growth mindset: No one is a stranger here, just a friend we have not yet met. A growth mindset and a little grit and resilience can go a long way when transitioning into anything new and unfamiliar. You may like to share a personal experience of your own, a time when you have felt unsure and the things you did to help yourself get through it. Recognising the big feelings of our little people is a good first step in building a growth mindset.
Empower Independence: Encourage your child to take ownership of their school supplies and responsibilities. This empowerment fosters confidence and a sense of control over their environment.
Research indicates that successful transitions contribute to positive academic and social outcomes. Supportive home environments during transitions are linked to better emotional wellbeing and improved academic performance. The support and positive encouragement of parents and carers in the transition process can help children navigate the changes more effectively.
How to talk to your children about transition:
Be Empathetic: Show understanding and empathy for their emotions, acknowledging that transitions can be challenging
Be Positive: Highlight the positive aspects of the transition, such as making new friends and exploring exciting subjects
Answer Questions: Address any concerns your child may have by answering their questions honestly and age-appropriately
Encourage Expression: Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts about the transition through writing, drawing, or talking
The vital role you as parents and carers play in supporting your children during this time by communicating openly, fostering independence, encouraging resilience and offering reassurance will ensure we embrace the positives and acknowledge the challenges, so your children continue to thrive and look forward to the new school year.
Information sourced from: Transitioning to a new year level in Primary School - SchoolCompare