Wellbeing
Together We Grow, Together We Glow!
Move for a Reason....Creating awareness of children's mental health
I am excited to share with you a student led initiative! A group of 5 boys from Grades 4 and 5, recently initiated a meaningful conversation that has grown into something quite powerful.
During a wellbeing session, one student shared that he wanted to learn how to feel happier and less sad. Another boy echoed this sentiment and asked whether other kids feel the same way. This sparked an open and heartfelt discussion, ultimately leading to the creation of this initiative, aimed at raising awareness about children's mental health and supporting other children who may be feeling similar.
They named their initiative “Move for a Reason” and partnered with Miracle Paws, who currently support our school by providing a wellbeing dog. To achieve this, they created a flyer and a flag, presented them at assembly, and planned a 3 hour community walk to nearby shops to spread the word.
On 25th August, they spent 3 hours walking and engaging with the community at the local Kmart, as they distributed their message, spoke with members of the public about the importance of openly discussing children's wellbeing and engaged the community with short activities designed to improve mental health.
The 3 hour walk was an amazing success, with the boys reflecting on their personal mental health, supporting each other along the way, showing great leadership skills and reaching out to the community to spread the word. I am incredibly proud of this group and what they acheived! They have worked hard during sessions and I'm so happy that they enjoyed the day.
If you see the boys around the school, please reach out to them in congratulations!
The students would love to spread their message even further and felt that reaching out to the wider school community could help amplify their cause.
How can I help you ask…great question!
- Talk: Ask your kids how they’re feeling. Really listen.
- Move: Encourage daily activity, walks, playtime or sports.
- Support: Be kind, patient and create safe spaces to talk.
- Act: Reach out to the wellbeing team at Weeden Heights Primary School or refer to psychological services if needed. Below are some details if you are looking to make a referral.
Request a GP mental health plan onlinebulk billed through onPsych, providing up to 20 bulk billed psychology sessions per year.
To get a MHC plan, families can now book a bulk billed video consultation with a GP via onPsych. For many parents the process of obtaining a mental health care plan for their children can be challenging. onPsych has made access easy. With parent permission the online GP consultation can even occur at school. We have removed the last barrier.
- Your child can see a registered psychologist where and when it works best for them via telehealth or face-to-face (where available).
All sessions are bulk-billed through Medicare.