Wellbeing

EMBRACING CHANGE

As we head towards the end of the school year, its wonderful to spend time celebrating all that we have achieved and the friendships and experiences we have had that have helped us to grow along the way. There is however, a lot of change our students will be facing; new teacher, new classroom, new class mates, new class norms and values, along with a new curriculum.

So much change to manage!  Our whole school work together to plan and prepare so diligently and thoughtfully with step up days, meet the new teacher, deliver a message to another classroom but at this time of year, it is still change that we need to learn to embrace. Teachers in teams across the school vertically and within cohorts work on class groupings and complete a thorough hand over to the new teacher in preparation for a smooth transition. Teachers consider the social, emotional, academic aspects with the priorities being happy, healthy students. There is much to consider.

Putting a positive mindset to change is important. Have a conversation and give examples of when you have experienced change and how it made you feel but also how you over came it and made it a positive experience. Children need to see and hear how it will turn out. If you are positive then they too will be. Embracing change starts with adopting a positive mindset and can help you be aware and see things differently. 

When it is a new situation, consider how you perceive the change. What is your first thought, reaction we often sway towards the negative because of the unknown however let’s try to put a positive slant on opportunities when they present themselves. Opportunities are always a chance to grow and expand yourself and to try new things. They provide us with teaching, insight, awareness and understanding and these help us to be well- rounded friends, siblings  and people.

Let’s look at a few examples of embracing change and having a growth mindset.

Rather than saying, “There’s no way I’m ever going to figure this out,” say to yourself, “It may take more time than I thought, but I will do it.”

Rather than saying, “I failed,” say to yourself, “I didn’t succeed this time, but I gained some valuable insights and will use what I learned to succeed next time.”

Rather than saying, “This isn’t working, so I give up,” say to yourself, "What I'm doing right now isn't working, but if I use a different tactic or strategy and come at this challenge from a different direction, it may work.”

Embracing change drives growth, expands friendship groups, strengthens adaptability and flexibility and challenges you to be better.

Help your children through change in a positive way and embrace new opportunities