Whatever you have happening in the upcoming holiday period, I encourage you to take the time to plan ahead so that the needs of the whole family/whānau are met. The end of Daylight Savings and the completion of Term One, as well as more Autumnal weather, signal change and provide us with the opportunity to pause and plan ahead.

Whilst the holidays can certainly be a juggle of balancing work commitments alongside childcare, they are also an important time for the whole family/whānau, as the change of pace and routine can allow you to recharge, reflect and reset. I encourage you to have a conversation with your child across some, or all, of the following topics:

Recharge

• What does your child need in terms of being able to rest and relax after Term One?

• What will be helpful for your child so that they feel recharged for Term Two?

• Are there any activities your child would really like to do over the holiday period?

• How can you cater for your child’s needs alongside your own commitments?

Reflect

• Looking back on Term One, what went well?

• Looking back on Term One, what could be better?

• How can your child plan for progress in Term Two?

• Are there some personal goals that could be put in place over the holiday period to ensure that Term Two is as successful as possible?

Reset

• When, and how, will you get ready for a return to routine and the start of Term Two?

• How will your child know that they have had a great break over the holidays?

I hope that these questions provide you with the opportunity to have a meaningful discussion with your child ahead of the holiday period. You could certainly answer these questions with your child so that as a family/whānau you are aware and understanding of each others’ needs. I wish you all the best as you hopefully recharge, reflect and reset before Term 2.

Image sourced from: https://www.chsgardens.co.nz/

Jenelle Hooson

Jenelle is a fully registered member with NZAC (New Zealand Association of Counsellors).

If you wish to discuss the services the School Counsellor can provide, please talk to your child’s homeroom teacher or make contact with Jenelle directly: jenelle.hooson@medbury.school.nz