He waka eke noa – we’re all in this together.
The Ministry of Education updated the COVID-19 and wellbeing page on our website. It includes information that will be helpful for you and the well-being of children and young people learning from home and their whānau.
Children and young people will again look to adults for guidance on how to react to stressful events. If parents or teachers seem overly worried, children’s and young people’s anxiety may rise.
Parents and teachers can reassure children and young people that everyone is working together, from the Prime Minister down, to help people throughout the country stay healthy and to limit the spread of this virus.
As things change, families and whānau will also want to stay connected with you. Things may be challenging for some children, young people and their families. As an individual teacher, you might not have all the answers but working collectively can help. Work with parents, other school staff, iwi, social and health agencies and other services in your community.
Whakawhānaungātanga: take the time to connect and listen to ensure genuine and authentic engagement with those around you.
Helplines that are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- Mental Health Crisis: 0800 800 717
- Lifeline for counselling and support: 0800 543 354 or 0800 LIFELINE
- Samaritans for confidential support for anyone who is lonely or in emotional distress: 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions: 0800 111 757 or free text 4206
- Healthline for advice from trained registered nurses: 0800 611 116
- Suicide Prevention Helpline: 0508 828 865
- Counselling Free Call or Text 1737.
Also available:
- Family Services 211 Helpline for help finding and direct transfer to community-based health and social support services in your area: 0800 211 211
- Family Services Directory online
- Unite Against COVID-19: Family and sexual violence prevention for help and support if you’re experiencing family violence or sexual violence.