From the Chaplain
Children Processing Change and Loss
While it has been a delightful start to 2020 with this years cohort of students investing in old and new friendships, I am very aware that there are students that have experienced loss at some point in the last few months or perhaps even longer if there has been a loss that is significant to them. For example, this could be the loss of relationship with a person through either death or family separation or it could be the death of a favourite pet. As adults, we may not always do it well, but when facing loss we can wait for the 'right time' to talk to a trusted friend or alternately deflect our feelings so we can 'carry on' and have a cry when we are away from others.
However, children process grief a little differently. As parents, have you noticed a child initially speaking of the focus of their loss for a period and then it seems as if they have 'forgotten' about it for a while? This is your child processing grief as they are able and in a sense doing exactly as your adult self does in deflecting feelings. However, children revisit loss time and again bit by bit seeking to make sense of feelings and emotions.
I am looking at working with a small number of students over a couple of lunch periods who have experienced loss and would find value making a memory book as a part of the processing journey. This will also give children an important opportunity to process thoughts and feelings that detract from learning and importantly create a keepsake of the positive things they remember as they consider the way forward.
Activity requirements:
A book or journal suitable for photos or pictures and space to draw and write. Photos or photocopies of photos of the person or pet significant to the student
If you think your child may value this activity or want to know more please contact me via the office or email me on chaplain@kilsythps@vic.edu.au
School Breakfast Club
Kilsyth Primary Breakfast Club on Thursday Mornings from 8.10 am to 8.50am.
Over fourth term of 2019 to the present day, Breakfast Club has significantly grown with 54 students and some parents joining in to connect with one another prior to the start of school. Having breakfast together ensures children start the day able to concentrate and focus on learning and it is fun to see some of our more 'fussy' eaters try something new with the encouragement of their peers and actually like it.
As a school we are most fortunate to have Breakfast Club Volunteers and attending parents who support the children in consideration for one another during this time. The positive responses of children is encouraging to see and hear.
Please see below for a list of what is regularly served at Breakfast Club.
Cereals - Cheerios, Cornflakes, Rice Bubbles, Weetbix, Muesli served with the option of Canned Fruit
Toast - with Vegemite, Jam or Honey
Spaghetti and Baked Beans as requested
Drinks - Milk, Apple Juice or Chocolate and Banana Smoothie.
Fresh Fruit on the tables
Breakfast Club is free and all families are most welcome.
Coffee Jars Needed
I am in the process of collecting clear glass jars with a sealable lid for an activity. Due to what I would like to do with some children the ideal jar is empty and clean medium or large Moccona coffee jars. Please drop these or clear jars of a similar size to the office if you are able to help in adding to what I have already collected. Thank you.
Availability
Located at Kilsyth each Monday and Thursday, I am available to met with caregivers and students as a part of providing support to each regardless of belief or circumstances. I genuinely care about the well being of your child within the school and beyond. I am willing to hear your concerns and partner with you in finding options that support you in your role as the most important person in your child's life.
Monday 8.45am to 4.00pm
Thursday 8.00am to 3.00pm
Contactable by phone via the office, email chaplain@kilsythps.vic.edu.au or by dropping in to say hi.