WellBeing
We know how important our own wellbeing is, and sometimes it can get lost in our busy lives. Our own wellbeing, and that of our family, is especially important during times like this.
On this page you will find resources for families to support wellbeing and mindfulness.
Our school's Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Framework encourages students to always try to be Safe, Respectful Learners. Students are also explicitly taught about Social Emotional literacy in SEL, which fosters resilience, gratitude, positive thinking and coping strategies.
We have gathered some links for useful articles and advice, that may be helpful for families during this uncertain time:
https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/covid-19-parenting-children-with-disabilities
https://m.timesofindia.com/thumb/msid-75525287/75525287.jpg?resizemode=4&width=400
MIEACT has provided FREE support resources for schools and families. Parents of children in years 5 and 6 are encouraged to check out these digital online interactive mental health programs.
‘Mental Health and Me’ Digital Program
Audience: Years 5-8
Format: Digital online interactive mental health program
Link to Student Portal: https://mieact.org.au/portal/
Link to program information: https://mieact.org.au/workshops/mental-health-and-me/
Link to Teacher/Parent Resources: https://mieact.org.au//app/uploads/Mental-Health-and-Me-5-8-Teacher-Resource.pdf
‘Stress and Me’ Digital Program
Audience: Years 5-8
Format: Digital online interactive mental health program
Link to Student Portal: https://mieact.org.au/stress-and-me/
Link to program information: https://mieact.org.au/workshops/stress-and-me/
Link to Teacher/Parent Resources: https://mieact.org.au//app/uploads/Stress-and-Me-5-8-Teacher-Resource.pdf
Family Mindfulness
When it all gets too much in lockdown, take some time to enjoy some mindfulness with your family. It really can make a difference!
Take a listening walk - what do you hear?
Really taste what you are eating
Do a body scan - start at your toes and feel them move, then make your way up your body to your head
Enjoy the silence - try to all stay silent for 5 mins to begin with
Get outside for some fresh air. Take your shoes off and feel the grass under your feet
Create a mindful jar - fill a jar with water and some environmentally friendly glitter. Shake the jar and watch the glitter settle.
Go on a walking safari around your neighbourhood - look for bugs, creepy crawlies etc
Set a time aside each day as a family to turn off devices and do something for yourselves.
Help is Available
If you, or any of your family members, are finding the lockdown particularly tough, please reach out to us at school and we can direct you to support networks.
Our school psychologists can be made available to provide assistance through Telehealth for vulnerable children or those who are experiencing challenging circumstances. To access the service, a booking request may be made via an online form or by calling 6205 1559 between 9:00am and 4:30pm.
Services are available for the ACT community to access. Some suggestions are below.
The ACT Health Website has some great information on how to support children, teenagers and families: https://health.act.gov.au/services-and-programs/mental-health/mental-health-and-wellbeing-during-covid-19/supporting-others#children
Children and families can also find support through the KidsHelpline website, where there are resources and access to online counselling: https://kidshelpline.com.au/ Or, they can be called on 1800 55 1800
The ACT Education Directorate has a wealth of information about family mental health and wellbeing on their website: https://www.education.act.gov.au/support-for-our-students/wellbeing-support-resources-for-students-and-families