Dear Students, Parents, Carers and Families,

During this COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that we stay connected and work together to support everyone. Some ways in which you can connect include, phoning people for a chat, writing letters and sending cards or emails, set up virtual catch ups using apps such as WebEx, Teams, Whatsapp or Skype. Involving the whole family in these catch ups can be a lot of fun and can assist friends and family to remain connected to each other when they cannot physically. It is important however to remember that these platforms are best used by adults or with direct adult supervision.

During this time it is more important than ever that family members:

Look out for any signs of distress, concern or anxiety
Listen to each other
Talk about what is going on – Do not be afraid to discuss coronavirus (COVID-19), use child-friendly honesty, be guided by your child, be reassuring and keep talking!
Seek help together

If you have any concerns about the CoVid-19 virus, please visit one of the links below: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/coronavirus-landing-page.html?ref=search

https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/victorian-publiccoronavirus-disease-covid-19

https://www.abc.net.au/radio/programs/coronacast

(Coronacast is a podcast that helps to answer your questions about coronavirus or COVID19. It breaks down the latest news and research to help you understand how the world is living through an epidemic. This is a short daily podcast and round up the latest information, research and news on the Coronavirus epidemic in Australia and answers questions submitted by listeners). https://www.esafety.gov.au

(Tips for staying safe online during the COVID19 pandemic)

CoVid-19 Hotline: 1800 675 398

Remember to look after yourself.

This situation can be stressful – regardless of your age. To look after the people you love, you also need to look after yourself!
If you notice that you are feeling anxious, take some time to calm down before having a conversation or answering your child’s questions.
If you are feeling worried, tell your child that you will find some information and talk to them soon.

External Resources There are a great number of external resources available also.

I have listed some of these below:

KIDS HELP LINE www.kidshelp.com.au

Info line 1800 551 800 (Free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5-25)

BEYOND BLUE www.beyondblue.org.au

Info line 1300 22 4636 (Provides information and support to help everyone achieve their best possible mental health)

HEADSPACE www.headspace.org.au

Info line 1800 650 890 (For young people who need help with mental health, physical health (including sexual health), alcohol and other drugs, work and study support)

LIFELINE https://www.lifeline.org.au

Info line 131 114 (Provides all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to online, phone and face to face crisis support and suicide prevention services)

PARENT LINE Info line 132 289 (Counselling and support for parents and carers of children birth to 18 years)

1800RESPECT https://www.1800respect.org.au

Info line 1800 737 732 (National 24/7 Family violence and sexual assault counselling service)

REACHOUT https://au.reachout.com/

(online support for parents and children)

Stay Safe Everyone,

Kind Regards,

Diane Morwood

Assistant Principal

Specialist Awards

Physical Education

Performing Arts

Visual Arts