STRONG MINDS, 

GENTLE HEARTS

We've had a vibrant and smooth beginning to the school year.  We are proud of our students for embracing college life with a positive spirit and striving to reach their potential. As this is the last newsletter for the term, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all parents and carers for your invaluable support in your sons' education. Wishing you a happy, blessed and safe Easter – I look forward to the exciting opportunities that Term 2 will bring. Below are some tips to assist your sons with learning important coping strategies and building resilience in life. 

Bolstering resilience

Life is full of ups and downs, moments of stability, and times of uncertainty. As a parent or carer, you play a vital role in helping your child understand that setbacks and unpredictability are natural parts of their journey. Building resilience is essential, and your support can help them navigate challenges with confidence. 

Traps to avoid

Rescuing Your Child:It can be difficult to watch your child struggle with discomfort and, as a parent, you may feel it too. Naturally, you want to protect them from hardship, but stepping in too quickly can prevent them from developing resilience. 

Common traps include: 

• Taking over tasks – handling responsibilities for them, like scheduling appointments or packing their belongings. 
• Being overly positive – focusing only on the good without acknowledging their struggles. 
• Blaming others – attributing challenges to external factors rather than helping them take ownership. 

While these actions come from a place of love, they can limit your child's ability to cope with difficulties. Allowing them to manage small challenges now will better prepare them for future obstacles. 

Overemphasising achievement: Success is rewarding, but placing too much importance on it can shift the focus away from broader skills, values and personal growth. 

Avoid: 

• Only celebrating and discussing achievements in one area of life. 
• Praising talent over effort – e.g., “You’re a natural!” rather than recognising their hard work. 
• Defining your child solely by their accomplishments rather than who they are as a person. 

Tips to consider 

Acknowledge and Nudge: Instead of immediately stepping in, take a moment to reflect, acknowledge their emotions, and gently guide them forward. 

Here’s how: 

1. Pause – Take a breath and remind yourself of the value in life lessons. 
2. Acknowledge – Let them know you understand their challenge. 
3. Praise – Recognise their effort and perseverance. 
4. Remind – Reassure them that you’re there for support, no matter what. 

What to say: 

• “I imagine this is tough for you right now.” 
• “I’m really proud of the effort you’re putting in.” 
• “I’m here if you need help or just want a hug.” 

Celebrate Effort and Growth: Instead of focusing solely on achievements, recognise effort and progress across all areas of life – academics, work, hobbies and relationships. Encouraging a well-rounded perspective helps them see success as part of their journey, not their identity. 

Ways to do this: 

• Celebrate effort and outcomes. 
• Praise their dedication – “I’ve noticed how much time and effort you’ve put into this. Well done!” 
• Encourage them to explore different interests and strengths. 

By fostering resilience, you empower your child to navigate challenges with confidence, knowing they are valued for who they are – not just for what they achieve. 

(This resource was adapted from an HP 2032+ collaboration to support parents, grandparents, carers, and significant others in guiding their child through life's challenges and achievements. © 2024)