The wellbeing of our students is an integral component of every lesson we complete. Not only in timetabled lessons but also through the live classes which allow us to connect in meaningful, albeit unusual, ways.

Teachers take every opportunity to acknowledge the kindness the students are showing towards one another. We have been impressed by their readiness to help solve technology issues, support each another and also finish meetings with wishes for a happy break or a lovely weekend.

Regularly checking-in with our girls, asking about personal interests or hobbies, the students’ pets, toys and even favourite novels have been an integral part to encouraging our feelings of happiness.

During COVID-19 everyone in our community can be affected. For children and young people, it is important to have the support from parents, carers and other family members. While students are Learning@Home, it is valuable that they take part in activities that support their wellbeing and help to take their mind off the current crisis.

Smiling Mind is one such resources and a past teacher of Barbreck, Ms Lisa Barker, has designed and written some wonderful Wellbeing Modules for children (at three different levels: 5-7, 8-10, 11-12). The modules are:

• supporting children’s emotional wellbeing through mindfulness
• helping children manage worry and anxiety
• focusing on the positives

More information is available at the following link: https://www.smilingmind.com.au/kids-care-packs

In Year 3 we often use a mindfulness card at the end of the day to prompt us to reflect on the good things that happen each day to increase our wellbeing. If we do this every single day, it may become a habit that supports building resilience. Below are a selection of responses from this week that the girls were happy to share.

What made you laugh today?

“Today when I was doing my Literacy I usually like to sound out the words and Siri popped up from my iPad and said ‘I’m sorry, I couldn’t quite catch that. Would you mind repeating that?’” Gigi 3B

“The thing that made me laugh was my cat Gucci. He sat on my bed and used his paw to touch my leg.” Jasmine 3B

What did you achieve today that you’re pleased about?

“I am feeling very excited and super proud of myself. I have been chosen from my Ballet class to do a solo dance at my Ballet school exams. My stomach felt like It had butterflies inside and my face could not stop smiling! I was really amazed, I was the one chosen out of the entire class. My teacher, Miss Susan gave me a huge tight hug that felt warm and lasted forever! The dance is very hard and fast. It needs a lot of practice. I can’t wait to do my very best at practising and then performing it.” Zara 3S

“My writing because I feel like I achieved some great writing skills and this affects my wellbeing. It makes me feel good about myself.” Chloe 3B

What great thing did you notice about someone today?

“I noticed Georgie in PE was really happy. She was excited, she was bubbly and she was really listening to me when I got to teach my lesson. That was something that I really loved noticing today.” Issy 3S 

“Oliver, my little brother, is starting to stand up by himself.” Charlotte 3S