FROM THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL & CLASSROOM SUPPORT
School Counsellor - Exciting News!
St Patrick's has been without a school counsellor for a term, but we are pleased to announce that a new counsellor will be joining us next week.
If you would like your child to see the school counsellor, please touch base or complete the referral form using the link below. For families with split custody, it is a requirement that both parents provide consent.
https://catholiccare.force.com/housing/s/school-referral-form
Once you complete the referral the counsellor will touch base and prioritise the St Patrick’s community’s needs. Based on this most students will see the counsellor fortnightly for a series of six sessions.
Support for Parents
As we embark on a new term, it's important to acknowledge that this period can be a source of anxiety for many students. The transition back to school, new routines, and academic pressures can sometimes feel overwhelming. As your classroom support teacher, I want to share some insights and resources to help you support your child during this time.
Understanding Anxiety in Students
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including:
- Physical symptoms: headaches, stomach aches, or fatigue.
- Emotional signs: irritability, mood swings, or excessive worry.
- Behavioural changes: withdrawal from activities, difficulty concentrating, or changes in sleep patterns.
How You Can Help
- Open Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings. Listen without judgment and validate their emotions.
- Routine and Structure: Establish a consistent daily routine to provide a sense of stability.
- Healthy Habits: Ensure your child gets adequate sleep, nutritious meals, and regular physical activity.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Introduce mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques to help manage stress.
Resources for Parents
- Some quick reads: Finding Balance Article, No More Tears - Tips for easier drop offs, Reframing Routines
- Free online parenting courses: Why Fear-Less Triple P Online makes all the difference - Help your child manage anxiety and become more emotionally resilient. This full toolkit of tips and ideas really works! Book Now
Emma Grant