Pastoral Care
Hello Parents!
Welcome to Term 2! A very different term for us all I know, but one we will never forget, I am sure!
I wanted to take some time to say hello, to let you know that we are all thinking of you and your families and to encourage you in this really unique season. It’s important to remember that all seasons change or come to an end. Rather than just thinking about it coming to end, let’s think about how we can make it count – make it a time full of great memories. Memories that you can treasure forever and that your children can reminisce on as a great adventure that they share with their children in years to come. I think one of the best ways we can do this is to focus on each day as it comes, not thinking about the failures of yesterday or the anxieties of tomorrow but what treasures are waiting in our day today.
There is a beautiful reminder of this principle in the bible in Matthew 6:34, where it says,
“Refuse to worry about tomorrow, but deal with each challenge that comes your way, one day at a time. Tomorrow will take care of itself.”
Here are few things you can do to focus on today that will go towards creating great memories for you and your children in the years to come.
- Make today your own. It’s so easy to feel the pressure of all of the tasks we must get done today. What our children must learn today, trying to measure up to what we think is expected of us or what challenges or troubles are going on around us. However this can often lead us and our children to feeling emotionally and physically drained, frustrated and overwhelmed. A fun idea to start each day with is to sit down together as a family and plan out the day’s events. Come up with a plan for the day that includes time to get the tasks done, time to learn together, time and activities to have fun, explore and creates memories as a family. Don’t forget to schedule in time to relax and rest. Doing this means that at the end of each day, while there will still be challenges, there will also be fun memories for your children to remember for the rest of their lives.
- Don’t compare. When we compare ourselves to others we use a lot of energy that could go into making our day, family and life the best it can be. Rather than looking at what other families are doing or achieving each day, think about putting your own unique stamp as a family on your day and what you are achieving. Focus on your own unique strengths as a family, how you have fun, what you love to do and what makes you happy.
- Fill the tank. Our children need the best version of us each day in order to flourish. It’s so important that you make time to manage your own energy levels, to do things to fill your tank, emotionally, mentally and physically so that you have something to give each day to your children. Most children are happiest when they just have your love, time, presence, affection, listening ears etc. So, if you are energised yourself you are more able to be present for them. Rather than focusing on just the tasks ahead, spend time connecting with your child.
Parenting expert Michelle Mitchell and Psychologist Karen Young have some wonderful insights and encouragement on how to manage your energy levels and connect with your children emotionally each day for better learning.
Here are a couple of great resources:
Please remember that if you need any assistance or support during this time or if you are concerned for your child’s well-being, we are here to help! Please do not hesitate to contact the Pastoral Care team if you need a listening ear or some advice. We also have collated many resources for you and your children on different topics that are relevant to every day family life at the Genesis@Home Care Hub. Please access the Care Hub here.
You are all in your thoughts and prayers!!
God Bless,
Louise Klar
Head of Pastoral Care & Growth/College Counsellor
