Dear Parents/Carers,

Rain, rain, go away…

With floods hitting many parts of Victoria we send our thoughts to those affected.

Our Y5 and Y6 students are being mindful this week. We have been super lucky to be able to work with Stephanie from I Am Mindful. The I.A.M School Program is centred around an evidence-based mental health toolkit and coping planning resources. The foundation works with schools in Australia to teach students and their support system how to manage tough times in a proactive, skilful and healthy way.

The staff were involved in a Professional Learning session on Tuesday, which was then opened up to a Parent Information session on Tuesday evening. Thank you to those who attended. 

More information can be found: I Am Mindful Box™ (iammindfulco.com.au)

What is good mental health? 

Good mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness. It means you are in a state of wellbeing where you feel good and function well in the world.

According to the World Health Organization, good mental health is when you can:

• cope with the normal stresses of life;

• work productively;

• realise your potential;

• contribute to the community.

If you have good mental health, you might have emotions including happiness, love, joy and compassion, and you feel generally satisfied with life.

You are also likely to feel like you belong to a community and are making a contribution to society.

You might also have a sense of spiritual well being, a sense of meaning or purpose, and feelings of peace.

Good Mental Health Checklist

We all have to face challenges in life. People who have good mental health are more likely to be able to cope with the ups and downs.

You probably have good mental health if:

• you are confident when faced with new situations or people;

• you feel optimistic;

• you do not always blame yourself;

• you set goals;

• you feel good about yourself;

• you have good self esteem.

We begin our Kinder to Foundation transition program next week. The sessions run for children enrolled to attend at Parkhill in 2023 and details of the sessions are on the website. Anne McGregor will be our Foundation teacher next year and is excited to be preparing for the first sessions on Thursday. 

Just a reminder that we have a Curriculum Day on Monday – pupil free – and Cup Day is Tuesday. 

Have a super long weekend.

Best wishes,

Elaine Mitskinis

Principal