Wellbeing

At Balambalam PS, the beginning of the school year has been a priority and important time for establishing our strong foundations for learning, engagement and sense of belonging. This term our teachers have carefully planned and spent time explicitly teaching and practising classroom routines to help our students feel confident and ready to learn.

Clear and consistent routines help children understand what is expected of them throughout the day, which can reduce anxiety, increase engagement and maximise learning time. When routines are explicitly taught and practised—such as how to begin the day, transition between lessons, organise learning materials, and work collaboratively - it supports students to develop independence. A structured environment also supports students’ wellbeing and engagement.

Families play an important role in supporting these routines by establishing similar structures and predictability at home.  Simple actions at home include ensuring children have a consistent bedtime, preparing school bags and uniforms the night before, and establishing a calm morning routine can make a significant difference. These routines support students to arrive at school feeling well rested, organised and ready to engage and learn. 

Families can also strengthen their child’s connection to school by having regular conversations about their learning, engagement and social connections.  At home, you can support your child by asking open-ended questions:

• What was something new you learned today?
• Who did you spend time with at lunch break?
• Who is someone who helped you today?

•  What helped you do your best learning today?

   

Through these valuable conversations, you are encouraging your child to reflect on their experiences, which strengthens their connections and contributes to a positive attitude towards school.   When we all work together to establish supportive routines at school and home, our students are more likely to feel confident, connected and ready to learn.

Look at how our Foundation students are demonstrating that when procedures are explicitly taught, modelled and practised daily they become a routine! 

Tiffany Bamford 

Assistant Principal - Inclusion