Welcome Back to School!

Dear Mullaloo Families,

As we kick off another exciting school year, I want to take a moment to introduce myself and reassure you that I’m here to support both the children and families throughout the year. I’m Ms Ash, your Student Wellbeing Officer, and I’m available on Wednesdays and Thursdays to help with any concerns, offer guidance, or just lend an ear.

We know that going back to school can stir up a lot of nerves, so here are some tips to help make the transition smoother for everyone in your household:

Back to School Tips to Overcome Nerves

1. Avoid Confusing Your Own Feelings with Your Child’s

It’s natural to feel nostalgic or anxious when seeing your child in their new uniform, but try to manage those emotions. Today’s schools are far more supportive and welcoming than many of us remember, and it’s likely your child will be having a great time. Stay calm, take a slow breath, and keep things lighthearted!

2. Get a Good Bedtime Routine in Place

After the more relaxed summer months, getting your child back into a routine is key. Start moving bedtimes earlier for a smoother transition into school mornings. Firm but loving bedtime rules help your child feel secure and ready for the day ahead.

3. Ease Gently into New Childcare Arrangements

If this term includes new after-school arrangements, make sure your child has familiar faces picking them up for the first week. Gradually introducing changes can help reduce any anxiety they might have.

4. Help Your Child Get Organised

When your child brings home timetables, school materials, and other information, it can be overwhelming. A wall-chart or day planner is a great way to keep everything organised and reduce anxiety about upcoming events and tasks.

5. Allocate Space for School Items at Home

From uniforms to lunchboxes to books, there’s a lot to keep track of! Designate a specific space for each item to keep things tidy and to avoid the inevitable morning scramble.

6. Reassure Your Child That You’re Thinking of Them

A little note in their lunchbox or a reminder of something you’ll do together later can provide comfort throughout the day. A simple message like “I’ll be thinking of you” or “I can’t wait to hear about your day” can make all the difference.

7. Lay Out Clothes the Night Before

To avoid rushing around in the mornings, set out your child’s clothes and school uniform the night before. It’s one less thing to worry about and can help reduce stress during the morning routine.

8. Declutter

A clutter-free environment helps create a sense of calm. Take some time to tidy up, especially during those quiet hours when the kids are at school. It can set a more peaceful tone for the rest of the day.

9. Make Home Life Sound More Boring than School

This might sound funny, but if there are younger siblings at home, it can help to avoid making home life seem too fun while your child is at school. The goal is to make school seem like the more exciting place to be!

10. Take Time Out for Yourself

Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children. Use the time while your kids are at school to recharge, relax, and do something for yourself. A calm, rested parent can make all the difference.

Ongoing Support: Clubs and Activities Throughout the Year

In addition to supporting your child’s transition back to school, I’m excited to share that throughout the year, I’ll be running a variety of Before-School and Lunchtime Clubs to help build important skills like relationships, courage, resilience, and teamwork.

These clubs are a wonderful opportunity for children to form connections, develop confidence, and have fun together. They’ll focus on activities that promote emotional well-being, social skills, and positive mental health. Keep an eye out for announcements about these clubs in the coming weeks!

I look forward to being a part of your child’s journey this school year. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support or simply want to chat. I’m here for you!

Wishing everyone a wonderful start to the school year!

Warmly,

Ash Whittle
Student Wellbeing Officer

Additional Resources for Parents & Children

As we navigate the school year, it’s important to remember that support is available when needed. Here are some helpful apps and helplines that can assist in supporting your child's mental health, wellbeing, and your own parenting journey:

Apps for Parents & Children:

Smiling Mind: A fantastic app for mindfulness and wellbeing, offering programs for both children and adults to help manage emotions and improve mental health.

Calm: Perfect for relaxation and mindfulness, Calm provides guided meditations, breathing exercises, and sleep stories to help reduce anxiety and stress.

Helplines & Support Services for Kids and Families:

Kidshelpline Phone: 1800 55 1800 (Available 24/7) Email: info@kidshelpline.com.au Website: www.kidshelpline.com.au

Parentline Phone: 1300 30 1300 (Mon-Fri 8am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-3pm) Email: parentline@parentline.com.au Website: www.parentline.com.au

These resources are there to support both you and your child when challenges arise. Feel free to reach out, whether you’re looking for advice or just need someone to talk to.