Welcome to the second term of the school year. I trust everyone had a Happy Easter and a positive holiday.
Having Open Communication
Raising children today means more than just teaching them right from wrong – it’s about understanding their world and being active participants to help guide them through different situations.
With the rise of social media, digital platforms, and shifting ideas of identity and respect, it’s crucial to stay connected and remain curious about the influences affecting our children.
Make a habit of asking open-ended questions about what your child is experiencing (this includes online, especially as your children become older). Ask about the shows they’re watching and the messages they’re receiving. This helps create an open dialogue where you can guide them toward healthy values, positive self-worth, and respect for others.
Without generalising, for boys it can often be about building their sense of self-confidence and questioning outdated ideas of masculinity. For girls, it can typically be about empowering them to stand strong in their identity and supporting to navigate societal pressures; reinforcing the importance of self-respect in the face of sometimes harmful online narratives.
By staying curious and engaged, you can help ensure your children feel supported and affirmed as they navigate an ever-changing world. Having open communication will help you to have a deeper conversation and let them know you’re there for them.
Top Tips for Open Communication
- Choose a time where you are side by side doing day-to-day things. For example, walking the dog, doing the dishes, driving to school. This creates a safe space that feels less confronting.
- Stay up to date with their daily life including their friends, school, extra-curricular activities.
- Always remain open and ready for the moments when your children want to talk. You never know when your child might open-up from a deeper level.
Friday 9 May – Mother’s Day morning
Next Friday 9 May from 8:15am there will be a Mother’s Day morning for all mums and significant women in our school community. Mothers are invited to come along for a coffee before moving to their child’s classroom at 9:00am and join for morning prayer. Classrooms will be open until 9:20am. I thank the P&F for the support provided to host this event.
Winter Uniform, Term Two and Term Three
Wearing the correct uniform brings a great sense of belonging to the community as well as pride in one’s appearance. Let’s work together to ensure it is sustained. The start of Term Two is when the school Winter Uniform is worn. We always have a two-week transition period. However, by the start of Week 3 all students need to be wearing the Winter Uniform.
A reminder that students need to have their long-sleeve shirt tucked-in (except for when they are playing during recess/lunch and fitness lessons). Wearing the school hat is not compulsory in Term Two (until 1 September). If you are unsure of any school uniform requirements, please speak with the Front Office.
Congratulations
I offer my best wishes to:
- Melinda Harding (Year 4 teacher), who during the holidays, gave birth to a healthy baby girl, ‘Alexis Grace’.
Wishing you well!
Simon Mechis
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