Assistant Principal Message

Dear Parents and Carers,

In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing a range of resources with you that Sydney Catholic Schools have provided. These articles offer valuable tips and support to help guide you on your parenting journey.

Teaching Children Protective Behaviours: A Guide for Parents

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our children is a top priority for all of us. One crucial aspect of this is teaching them protective behaviours to safeguard against sexual abuse. Here are somekey strategies and resources to help you navigate this important topic.

1. Open Communication

Encourage open and honest communication with your children. Let them know they can talk to you about anything, no matter how small or big it seems. Create a safe space where they feelcomfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns.

2. Teach Body Autonomy

Educate your children about body autonomy. Explain that their body belongs to them and they have the right to say no to any touch that makes them uncomfortable. Use age-appropriate language to discuss private parts and the importance of keeping them private.

3. Recognise and React

Help your children recognise inappropriate behaviour and teach them how to react. Role-playing different scenarios can be an effective way to practice responses. Emphasise that it's okay to say no and to tell a trusted adult if something doesn't feel right.

4. Online Safety

In today's digital age, it's essential to teach children about online safety. Discuss the importance of not sharing personal information online and being cautious about interacting with strangers onthe internet.

5. Resources for Support

Here are some valuable resources to help you further educate and protect your children:

● MOORE Center for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse: Offers a variety ofresources reviewed by experts for credibility and utility.

● Keeping Kids Safe: Provides interactive resources and toolkits for different age groupsto help children understand consent and recognize grooming behaviours.

● Bravehearts: Features a guide for parents and carers, along with information sheets onvarious topics related to child sexual abuse.

We’ve recently learned about some online courses that could be helpful for you as a parent or carer. The first is called "ADHD for Parents," and the second is "Autism for Parents." Please have a look at this link if you would like more information.

Just a friendly reminder that our library is open at lunchtime from Monday to Thursday for any student who might want some time off the playground to play.  We have loads of games (Monopoly, Guess Who?, Celebrity Heads), lego, building blocks, craft, cards and more.  If your child or children feel they need some time for passive play please tell them to visit the comfortable library - a safe place for everyone to play and socialise!

Mrs Louise Fairhall

Assistant Principal