School Counsellor

Hello Parents and Carers!

Things have been really busy in my office, with lots of parents approaching me for support. It is really heart-warming to know that parents are reaching out to help their children with emotional and social issues.

If you would still like to have your child meet with me and haven’t contacted the school yet, please be in touch with Assistant Principal Mrs Lauren Hopkins so we can make sure the service is delivered to those most in need. You can email hopkins.lauren.d@edumail.vic.gov.au or call the office to speak with her. 

I have been meeting with various students over the past month here at Kalinda Primary School. I have been delighted to meet so many warm, funny and smart children! As a mother of three primary school aged students, I would say to you all, whatever challenge you are facing at home, there are other parents facing the same issues! Don’t do it alone. It’s a long road! So, this week, I would like to share some very basic parenting supports with you.

Parentline 13 22 89

This telephone service is staffed by professionals. There is no parenting question too big or too scary that they haven’t heard before. You can call anonymously if you wish and you can call at all hours of the day! I thoroughly recommend them, even if just for a debrief or a few quick ideas.

https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/services-for-parents/Pages/parentline.aspx

Raising Children Website

https://raisingchildren.net.au/

This page has heaps of easy to read fact sheets which can act as a good refresher for topics like:

• Screen time
• Anxiety
• Making friends
• Boundaries & routines

And finally,

Child FIRST (Child & Family Information, Referral & Support)

https://services.dhhs.vic.gov.au/referral-and-support-teams

The names says it all! You can call and ask for general ideas, referral options in your region and request family support from their pool of social workers. This is a free service and can include home visits to help you with a whole range of family challenges.

Until next time,

Emily Bieber, School Counsellor.

Local parenting support: