Wellbeing

Brain breaks (also known as brain energizers or brain boosters) are short mental breaks children can take in between learning tasks. These activities can be active or relaxing, depending upon what is needed for each child. The purpose of brain breaks is to switch neural activity to different networks. When children are working, most of their energy goes into specific parts of the brain that are used for attention and critical thinking. Brain breaks reset these areas to reduce stress and improve learning when children return to task.

Brain breaks often focus on physical movement, mindfulness or sensory activities. These activities stimulate other areas of the brain that are equally important, but aren't used as much when children are working and learning. Most importantly, brain breaks are:

1 ) Short - around 3-5 minutes is optimal

2) Pre-planned - children know they're coming and can look forward to them

GoNoodle engages and inspires children to be active and mindful. It benefits children's physical wellness, academic success and social-emotional health. GoNoodle is a series of fun videos blending dance party, yoga and mindfulness.

A site for youth-based mindfulness programs with a focus on innovative ways to support good mental health and wellbeing. This site includes 'Thrive Inside', a special COVID-19 initiative to help you proactively support your psychological wellbeing while you are spending extended periods of time at home.

Free and confidential counselling for children and young people through phone or web chat. Kids Helpline has trained counsellors and can talk to children and young people about their concerns or worries.

The Australian Government parenting website. This site provides information, resources, Apps and links related to parenting. This includes health, wellbeing and mental health information for parents and their children.

Family Connect and Support is a NSW government organisation that can assist families by linking them to support services and community resources so that our children and young people are safe and well. These services can include confidential counselling, financial assistance and mental health support services. It is a free service and helps support finding relevant support services for families in NSW.

An Australian Government website for parents and professionals. This site provides resources, webinars and links to help navigate the way ahead through smooth seas or choppy waters.

Parent Line is a free service for parents and carers. Parent Line has trained counsellors and can also provide referrals to other service providers. They provide support and advice on parenting issues such as behaviour, family relationships and communication within families. Parent Line can also provide advice and counselling on specific issues that may be affecting families, such as worry or anxiety related to COVID 19, as well as more general issues that may come up as families spend increased time together.

Supporting the wellbeing of children is an important part of what students, families and schools do every day. In times of uncertainty and stress, it is especially important to ensure children's wellbeing is looked after. Supporting wellbeing will help with positive interactions with others and for students to learn more effectively.

The document provided has a range of activities students can complete from home to support their wellbeing during this difficult time.

Got It! is a wellbeing and mental health initiative from the NSW Department of Health developed in partnership with the Department of Education. The Got It! tipsheets provide useful and practical strategies to help parents/carers support their children.