Wellbeing Resources
Welcome to a new school year!
Starting school, whether for the first time or sixth, can bring mixed feelings for both students and parents. Nervousness, overwhelm, excitement, anxiety, happiness may be some feelings going through heads and bodies close to you. All feelings are okay - it is important to listen and validate feelings, not judge them.
Some ideas for making the transition to school easier for everyone might be to:
- Talk about feelings - starting school (and returning to school after the holidays) is exciting but can also be a bit scary. A new classroom, new teacher, new classmates…some children are shy and anxious in new situations and may find it difficult to be apart from you.
- Talk positively about going to school, making new friends and doing exciting new things like learning new things and playing outside.
- Encourage your child to talk about how they're feeling before, on, and after the first few days.
- Make sure your child is getting enough sleep - your child requires a good night’s sleep (about 10 to 12 hours is recommended for primary school aged children) for their brain to be ready for learning
- Set up a nice, relaxing bedtime routine – shower, brush teeth, cuddle, story, kiss and ‘goodnight’.
- Just before bed is not a good time for tickles, TV or other excitement.
- Set a regular time for bed.
- Healthy eating - healthy lunches and snacks help with concentration and learning at all ages
- Involve your child in choosing and packing their own lunch.
- Include lots of vegetables, fresh fruit, cheese, yoghurt, lean meat, wholemeal bread, and a bottle of water. Pack just the right amount – not too much.
- Start the day with a healthy breakfast!
When your child starts school, it’s a big step for you too!
Try to relax and enjoy this time with your child. If you feel calm and show you are happy about your child starting school, they’ll feel happier too.
If you are worried about your child going to school, talk to your child’s classroom teacher. We all are hoping this school year will be a fun experience for all at St Mary’s.
EACH WEEK WE ADD NEW ARTICLES OR VIDEOS
If you need a chat or some ideas of what to do with the kids, please reach out…I am only too happy to make time for you.
If there is a particular topic of interest that you would like to know about or if you have any questions please feel free to email me at mmakin@smechuca.catholic.edu.au
Take care and stay safe
Michelle
Home School Liaison