Student Wellbeing
Return to School Strategies
Holidays are an important time for students to rest and celebrate after a big term of learning. They are well deserved and a great opportunity for family connections and to recharge for Term 2. Whilst holidays are great, we know that for some students the transition can be a bit of a challenge. Below are a few strategies that we suggest could help with your child returning back to Term 2.
1. Set up a back-to-school routine
Create structure about going back with a school routine. This can start a few days back to school returning (Suggest the Sunday before). This can include setting up bedtime routines (for going to bed and getting up in the morning), reading practice, snack and lunchtimes. Put in some limits and expectations around technology use.
2. Talk about going back to school
Most children deal with some level of stress or anxiety about school. Talk with your child about what worries them about school.
These are all normal feelings, so normalising these is important. Reassure your child the feelings they have are common and they will likely overcome them once they have settled in. Worries and courage can exist together.
3. Help create a sense of school belonging
A sense of belonging at school can affect academic success and student well-being. Parents can facilitate positive attitudes about school by setting an encouraging tone when talking about school and teachers.
Also show an interest in school life and work, and be available to support your child both academically and socially. The more connected you are with your child’s schooling, the more connected they will be.
4. Look out for signs of stress
Look for changes in your child’s mental health. Some of these could include them being more clingy than usual, if they appear restless or crying, avoidance or negotiating more. These could all be a sign of stress or struggle for your child. None of these things are unusual, however if they continue into week 2 or 3, let your child’s classroom teacher know or speak to Janine or Brad.
5. Focus on the positives
Talk about school in a positive way. Focus on the successes your child had in Term 1, be it friendships, learning, earning Gazillions or the connection they made with their teacher. This positive mindset is contagious and will impact your child. Greenhills is a GREAT place and we have had a great Term 1 and looking forward to an even GREATer Term 2!
Wishing you a very Happy Holiday!
Janine and Brad.
