School Counsellor News
Dear Parents/Carers
Welcome to Term 2.
Some children may be feeling anxious about returning to school. This article from Kids Helpline maybe be helpful to know what anxiety is and how parents can support their child.
If your child feeling anxious is an ongoing challenge and is disruptive to them or your family it is important to seek professional psychological support.
What is anxiety?
Some level of anxiety is a normal part of life and growing up. But if it stays for long periods of time then it could be a problem.
- Everyone experiences anxiety sometimes, especially when faced with new, stressful or dangerous situations
- If high levels of anxiety continue over time, this can mean constant physical feelings of panic and avoidance of anything that might trigger it
- An anxiety disorder should not be ignored and it usually won’t get better on its own
“Anxiety can happen as a response to changes or life events and usually passes on its own. If it persists, it’s important not to ignore it and get help”
As a parent, there are many things you can do to support your kids through it:
Find out more about anxiety – read books and talk to experts
Let them know you can work together to overcome anxiety
Teach them about anxiety – its role is to protect us from threats
Talk about their anxiety – sketch where on their body they feel it
Help them manage their anxiety – set daily goals
Reassure them that shaking, sweating and a racing heart can be a part of anxiety
Avoid telling them to ‘stop worrying’ – often they can’t control it
Encourage a healthy lifestyle – eat well, exercise, sleep
Keen for more help?
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
Anytime. Any reason.
Parentline 1300 30 1300
A confidential telephone service providing professional counselling and support in Queensland. Phones are open every day 8am-10pm 7 days a week. WebChat is available every day from 8am-9pm 7 days a week.
Our phones are open every day from 8am – 10pm, while WebChat is available every day from 8am – 9pm.
An online community service directory for Queensland parents, families and professionals looking to find support. oneplace lists everything you need from parenting groups to domestic and family violence support services.
Parent Group Chat with School Counsellor about Anxiety
Thursday 28th April
2:30pm
In the Learning Support Room
All Welcome
Please email me at christina.peak@twb.catholic.edu.au to register ?
Autism Queensland provides a range of autism-related topics and designed for audiences including therapists, educators, teacher aides, school officers, lifestyle support workers, OHSC and vacation care staff, disability employment consultants, parents/carers/family members and others working with or supporting people on the spectrum.
Workshops are face-to-face in Toowoomba.
Webinars are online.
Follow this link to find out more
https://autismqld.com.au/services/workshops/
Online safety for our children is an issue that impacts children and families every day. You can learn how to protect your children at home. The eSafety Commissioner provides FREE online webinars and articles to support parents.
Webinars for parents and carers | eSafety Commissioner
