From the Leader of Wellbeing
We live in a VUCA world – a world of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. World, national and local events at present are evidence of this and our young people are extremely vulnerable with access to information being an extension of their hands.
As a parent or carer I challenge to ask yourself, reflect and act in line with the values that you would like your daughter to have at her core:
- Where is she getting her information from?
- Is the information she is accessing appropriate and/or well researched?
- Have I taught my daughter how to discern the multitude of information she comes across daily?
- When was the last time I sat with her face to face to discuss the world as it is and how she sees it?
- Am I a positive role model for my daughter?
A SPECIAL REPORT: Managing Overwhelm
The hyperconnected nature of our current environment means that we are constantly being reminded of the challenges we face via numerous media and social media channels. Our connectivity to the digital world exposes us to a barrage of messages that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. As a result, many children and their parents are reporting higher levels of stress and anxiety.
Our brains have not evolved fast enough to adapt to this digital landscape. The combination of constant access to information and having little control over the situations presented, can be stressful and overwhelming. It is therefore important for adult carers to check in with their children and be aware of what information they may have been exposed to. It may not necessarily be the information itself that is harmful, but more their inability to process and make sense of it. Providing children with the skills and strategies to cope will enable them to flourish and thrive, socially, emotionally and academically.
The blueprint for parenting, based on our own experiences, is no longer fit for purpose in raising kids as citizens of tomorrow. This can be inherently stressful and overwhelming, not only for parents and carers, but children alike. If left untreated or unmanaged, constant stress and anxiety can lead to a number of behavioural issues or health consequences.
This Special Report suggests a number of strategies to help manage any feelings of overwhelm that you or your child may be experiencing.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your daughter, please contact her Tutor Teacher or House Coordinator for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to this special on MANAGING OVERWHELM edition of SchoolTV: LINK
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: :
With Years 9 and 10 entering their assessment period and Year 11 commencing their HSC Courses the link below is a brief resource on how you can support your daughter during this time.
Ms Angela Bowland, Leader of Wellbeing
