Supporting Students and Family Wellbeing
To support your child’s wellbeing:
teach and model good hygiene practices
encourage your children to ask questions and express their feelings with you. Children can be affected by a crisis in different ways. Remember to be patient and understanding.
provide age-appropriate facts about what has happened, explain what is going on and give them clear examples on what they can do to help protect themselves and others from infection
limit media exposure—frequent exposure to media may increase fear and anxiety
keep to regular routines where possible, especially before they go to sleep, or help create new ones in a new environment
create opportunities for children to play and relax
seek support and stay connected with friends and family online or by phone.
We understand the potential spread of COVID-19 may be increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. As such, the ACT Education Directorate has collated information and resources to help support you and your family’s wellbeing.
Useful Resources
Emerging Minds
This resource assists parents and carers to best support their children. It contains a video, factsheets and tips about what you can expect and how you can help children cope.
Headspace
This resource provides good advice about how to cope with stress related to COVID-19.
World Health Organisation
An infographic about COVID-19 and helping children cope with stress.
Beyond Blue
This website offers wellbeing advice for those people who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, distress and concern in relation to COVID-19.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline for children to access if they’re feeling stressed, worried or anxious about COVID-19.
Parent Link
ParentLink aims to provide information based on the latest research and promote the importance of effective parenting practices.
Counselling is available for students and their families
During the ACT’s extended lockdown psychologists in schools are still available to students via telehealth.
We have also arranged additional counselling resources. We have gathered a team of psychologists who are available to all public school students and their families.
To book either of these services, fill in the online form: https://forms.office.com/r/PLa8gTawBK