Personal and social capabilities are the bread and butter of the Inclusion Team’s work. We support students in developing awareness of self and others through activities such as gardening, cooking, well-being hubs, social stories, friendship groups, Rock and Water programs, and explicit social skills lessons.

But learning doesn’t have to stop when it is school holidays. In fact, the holiday break can be an incredible opportunity to continue building these vital skills.

Start your holidays by making a plan to support your child’s social and emotional growth. Begin with a conversation:

• What strategies do they already use when they feel sad, frustrated, or excited?

• What new strategies could you try together over the break?

For children who need structure, maintain a sense of routine by making a simple plan each morning.

• Create a list of fun holiday activities and let your child choose a few each day

• Include a balance of high-energy and relaxing options—such as riding bikes, dancing to a favourite song, picking flowers, icing biscuits, or watering the garden
• Schedule technology time so it doesn’t become the only activity on the list.
• Plan ahead for activities and breaks
• Create a quiet space for when a calm down time is needed
• Read picture books that explore emotions and friendships
• Schedule a play date with a friend

As the holidays approach, we also encourage you to take time for yourself—even just a few minutes a day. Pausing not only helps you regulate your own emotions, but also models this vital skill for the children in your care.

Simple ways to pause:

• Hold a warm cup of tea and take a deep breath
• Step outside and feel the sunlight on your face
• Read a picture book or play a quiet game with your child
• Do something that relaxes and restores you

We often remind children to stop and breathe. Let’s do the same—for our sake and theirs. The holidays are not a break from growth—they are a chance to nurture it in different ways. As we prepare for Term 3, let this time be one of social reconnection and emotional awareness.

Happy holidays!

The Inclusion Team 

• Date Claimer: Partnering with Parents - 4^th August, 4pm.

Topic: Digital Technology – how to navigate best practice at home.