Wellbeing Report
Andre Campbell
R U OK Celebrations Thursday 9th of September
Last week we were thrilled that students and staff got into the spirit of the national day of R U OK? Day. Students at school learned that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” For students doing their learning at home, we received many thank you cards and messages of gratitude. Thank you all so much, you really did help raise the spirits for all our staff. Remember, you don't need to be an expert to reach out - just a good friend and a great listener.
Use these four steps and have a conversation that could change a life:
- Ask R U OK?
- Listen
- Encourage action
- Check in
Final Week
This lockdown has been hard for so many. We are all hoping that the Premier’s conference on Sunday will give us the road map out and we can then plan for when our students can return to school. This term, we have had many conversations with our parents and carers to best understand the changes to families, and the wellbeing team will continue to support families all the way.
We are looking forward to Term 4 and working together to help everyone adjust and settle back into learning. If you need help with school uniform, a food hamper or enquires for other services please call Veronica, Lily or myself.
This term, we have spent time talking to parents on how to help their children cope with anxiety and fears. Students are worried about a number of issues ranging from falling behind in their schoolwork, getting to sleep, worrying about family members, loss of pets and also their relationships and friendships. If you are looking for information and strategies please join up to the Happy Families school membership at:
https://members.happyfamilies.com.au/woori-yallock-primary-school
Also here is another good article from the Child Mind Institute at:
Back to school anxiety during COVID
Service Supports & Agencies
During the lock down there are many organisations across Yarra Ranges offering support and assistance. For community relief and support agencies, click on the link at:
https://www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Council/Coronavirus-Updates/Community-relief-and-support-agencies
For people looking for food relief, CIRE at the Yarra Junction hub, have food parcels and they have free bread on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. The Yarra Junction hub is open during lockdown for essential services only; food relief and they are a Centrelink Access Point. This service can be accessed by appointment where the school Welfare Team can refer families. If you are interested or know of any one you would like to recommend please contact me. During the school holidays people can enquire directly at CIRE. They are located next to the Yarra Junction Post Office and they are open Mon-Fri: 9am-4pm.
Don’t forget to connect with the Resilience Project resources online for parents. There are some fantastic resources to promote wellbeing in families:
https://theresilienceproject.com.au/at-home/parent-carer-information/
During these times, many reputable services including Beyond Blue are regularly updating their websites:
https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/
Our Wellbeing Toolbox kits have been popular. For interested families, every day we have a tub at the kiss and drop with numerous wellbeing packs and resources. Please drive through and pick up a pack, there is some great tips and ideas waiting! Alternatively, call the office and we can make other arrangements for collection.
Face Mask Tips for Children
Using play to help get children familiar with facemask tips. Go to:
Helping kids feel comfortable: https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/COVID-normal/supporting-personal-wellbeing/facemasks-and-you-how-to-navigate-what-you-re-feeling
Free School Holiday Program for Children and Adults
Bec Fillponi is an accredited Mental Health Social Worker and she has organised some free online Well-being sessions during the school holidays. The activities involve doing some art together that supports mindfulness, connection and positive self-worth. Please see the flyer attached for more information.
Free Online Parenting Group
Next term Eastern Health are offering a free program aimed to enhance mental health and well-being. The group commences Wednesday 27th October 10:30am-12:00pm and runs for six consecutive weeks on Zoom. Please see the flyer attached for further information.
Some of the topics will cover-
- Self-talk-unhelpful thinking patterns
- Management and awareness of emotions - What are the function of challenging emotion states like sadness or worry
Have a fantastic school holidays and keep up the great work with your families.