Mindfulness

This term saw the introduction of various mindfulness practices for the Grade 6’s. Over six weeks, this included using various sensory experiences to help focus the mind on the present moment to support awareness of self, concentration and focus, as well as using mindfulness as a way of coping with worry and anxiety. Some of the topics included:

• What is mindfulness?
• Recognising signs of stress and how mindfulness can help
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation and Body Scan
• Sensory activities including playdough, bubbles, candles, music and rice.
• Mindfulness Colouring In
• Cup Rhythm exercises
• Making a stress ball
• Safe space imagery and drawing

Using a variety of activities helps support children to identify different practices they resonate with so they can use them to support regulating emotions and increase wellbeing.

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Smiling mind CARE PACKS for primary school children

Smiling mind has developed CARE PACKS to support primary school children’s wellbeing (5-7 year olds, 8-10 year olds and 11-12 year olds).  Each CARE PACK has three sections:

• Recognising and Managing Emotions
• Looking after Worry & Anxiety
• Focusing on the positives

Click on the links below to obtain the relevant CARE PACK for your child:

5-7 Years Old

8-10 Years Old

11-12 Years Old

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ACF research on the Impact of CVID-19 on children and parents

The Australian Childhood foundation released research into the impacts of COVID-19 on children and parents,

“A Lasting Legacy – The impact of COVID-19 on children and parents”

Joe Tucci, Janise Mitchell and Lauren Thomas

August 2020

This research has highlighted the need for a renewed focus on addressing parental well-being and supporting families. They navigate their way through the pandemic and results point to the critical need for ongoing support of children, young people and parents. You can read the report here:

https://professionals.childhood.org.au/app/uploads/2020/09/A-Lasting-Legacy-The-Impact-of-COVID19-on-Children-and-Parents-Final-1.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PC%20Newsletter%20PC%20Resource%20-Safe%20and%20secure&utm_content=PC%20Newsletter%20PC%20Resource%20-Safe%20and%20secure+CID_91d4350d5f7b6782617491eb4fdd006c&utm_source=EDM%20Campaign%20campaign_name&utm_term=Lasting%20legacy

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Back to school anxiety during COVID-19

Whilst many children may be excited about returning to school, there may also be anxiety about separating from being at home for so long, the uncertainty about the future and how to reconnect with friends.  Below is an article to support back to school anxiety:

https://childmind.org/article/back-to-school-anxiety-during-covid/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Back-to-School%20Anxiety%20During%20COVID&utm_campaign=Public-Ed-Newsletter

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Take care,

Belle

Wellbeing Officer