Here at the Firs Primary School we believe the emotional and mental health of our children is imperative. Therefore, this page is dedicated to the Wellbeing of our staff, pupils and community.
At the Firs, we have a lot of support in place that focuses on helping children to recognise and regulate their emotions. Every class and each playground has a regulation station. This is a safe, cosy space that the children can access when they are feeling unsettled. In the station they can take time to reflect and calm using fidget toys, emotion books and work through their emotions using the happy breathing techniques taught in school. Children can then access the school day again when they feel ready. Our staff are trained in how to support the children by taking to the children calmly and valuing their emotions, thoughts and worries.
This may be something parents/carers may want to try at home. Try putting a cushion in a nice, quiet part of your home alongside books and fidget toys. Remember it is not used as a consequence but as a support tool to help children regulate their emotions with your help. If you would like further information on this, please ask your child's class teacher.
We love our morning routine here at the Firs. It consists of a morning greeting; this may be a thumbs up, hug or high five. Then we move on to a unite activity, where together the children may take part in a dance or song. We then complete a breathing technique to enable us to start the day calmly and we explore the day ahead from a visual timetable. We also ensure a feeling check in is provided to see whether support is required before starting the day.
Below are some lovely stories you can share with your children about worries:
Below are a list of activities that you can do together with your children to reduce worry:
Some fantastic links relating to Covid 19
What to say and what not to say to children about Coronavirus. This is a really good article, a must;
Looking after yourself and family;
Good explanation for children;
https://www.childhood.org.au/app/uploads/2020/03/Talking-to-Children-COVID-19-Social-Story.pdf
Cute ideas about hugs;
https://www.childhood.org.au/app/uploads/2020/04/hug_HR.pdf
A nice workbook for children to use;