Pastoral Care Worker News 

Love Languages

I was recently standing on the coast to vines track, overlooking a beautiful view, it was yet another simple view that you can see in so many places. But what makes each view so captivating?

This particular day the sun contributed, making the green fields glisten. The sky was piercing blue.  The undulating mountains framed the picture. The magnificent gum trees led to a picturesque expanse of reddened leaves on the vineyards. Even the vast yellow of the sour sobs, enhanced the scene, with the chattering galahs.

It makes your heart soar. Each thing added its own beauty, and without it, it wouldn’t have been so spectacular.

It is a bit like this when you stand on the edge of our school playground. It is beautiful. Joy, energy, connections and interactions at a glimpse. Without each child’s heart and soul being there, it wouldn’t be so spectacular.

Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell in the book the ‘ The Five Love Languages of Children’ says:

“Your child, like a flower, will benefit from your love. When the water of love is given, your child will bloom and bless the world with beauty. Without that love, they will become a wilted flower begging for water”

According to this book, we all have different love languages and it is possible to be communicating love, and the other person is not receiving it.

The aim is to understand your own love languages and those of your loved ones, and in doing so, figuring out how to communicate to them in their language.

We can educate, discipline, entertain, feed and water out child, but to help them blossom, in order that they can add their beauty to this world, your love will surely be the water of life they really need.

It is suggested there are 5 love languages, which I have listed, and with each, 2 suggestions, which you might like to use to show love this way.

Physical touch - Snuggle closely together on the couch when watching television together

If your child is under stress, gently stroke their head to relax them.

Words of affection -  Put a post-it note in their lunchbox with some encouraging words. Make it a habit to say, ‘I love you’, whenever you tuck in your child or leave one another.   

Quality time – Cook something together for a snack, such as biscuits or brownies. Stop what you are doing to make eye contact with your child as they tell you something important.

Gifts – When away from home, mail a small package to your child with their name on it. Give your child a ‘song’, either one you make up or a special song you select that reminds you of them

Acts of service – Sit down and help your child as they work on their homework. Periodically do one of your child’s favourite things, when they

 least expect it.

May love blossom for each of you.

Operation Christmas Child

As a school this term we would love to put together some Christmas boxes for children in countries who have little to nothing.  It will bring joy to these children, and to yours as you shop for a few essential/fun items that you can donate.  There is a collection box located in the Front Office where donations can be left.  All donations need to be received by Friday 17/9.

See the flyer attached for suitable items to be donated.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

Kiowa (Kay) Woodland, Pastoral Care Worker