Mental Health and Wellbeing

Welcome to a new year and a new decade; we are grateful to have you as part of our Kildare community and we look forward to supporting your child’s learning and wellbeing this year.

School Transitions

Back-to-school time brings excitement for many and anxiety for others - children and parents alike!   Whether it is starting high school for the first time, moving to a higher grade or starting at a new school, there is no doubt that any school transition is significant. For most, the jitters will be passing and once the first week is behind them it will be business as usual!  However for some, transitioning is an ongoing process. It can continue long after students have entered their new environment with difficulties encountered at different stages. 

Kildare School TV is a valuable resource available to you as parents supporting you to feel connected, informed and empowered.  In this edition of Kildare SchoolTV, School Transitions, you will find practical strategies to assist your child during the transition process and reduce stress and anxiety levels.

The bushfire crisis

The bushfires in Australia have had a significant impact on the country and continue to do so. Children, young people, families, schools, and communities have all been exposed to this crisis. Some may be impacted by the fires directly, having lost their homes and loved ones, some will have been evacuated, while for others they may be impacted by smoke and ash or hearing about friends and families frightening experiences.  We also know that witnessing the news stories that include loss of life and troubling images can have a distressing impact on viewers and in some cases people will have traumatic reactions to this. All experiences are valid and a reaction to any of these differing experiences is possible and real.

Fortunately children and young people are remarkably resilient and most will recover with little other intervention needed beyond the support and care of their guardians and family. Safety soothes trauma like water soothes fire - please explore this valuable resource from the Australian Childhood Foundation.  

Safer Internet Day - Tuesday 11th February

Safer Internet Day is a worldwide event that raises awareness about online safety and encourages everyone to help create a better internet. Online safety begins in the home and you can find our top 5 tips to discuss with young people towards the end of this newsletter.  Further information is also available in our Cyber Safety Series on Kildare SchoolTV.  The Wagga PCYC is running a FREE Safer Internet awareness night for one hour with local NSW Police Force Officers.  Head along to the PCYC, 228 Gurwood Street, on Tuesday 11th February at 7:00pm.

If at any time you have questions or concerns about your child's learning and wellbeing please make contact with their Academic Care and Wellbeing Coordinator.

Kylie Campbell | Psychologist