Is your child’s school mindful of their wellbeing? If there is one lesson which the pandemic has taught parents, it’s that schools teach our children so much more than just facts and figures.
Teachers help support and steer young people whilst they navigate their way along the path to adulthood, giving them the tools to overcome mental and physical obstacles that may get in their way.
It’s really not surprising that the recent changes to daily routines, being unable to see family and friends as well as worrying about their future has led to an increase in mental health problems amongst our young people.
With this in mind, it’s important to know how your child’s school takes care of their students’ wellbeing. So whether your child is already at school or will be at some point soon, there’s a list of things to look to see if a school is supporting your child to achieve a happy and healthy mind.
Does your child’s school pass the thoughtful test?
Don’t be afraid to ask a school whether they do any of the following:
- Have an open door policy – It’s really important that both pupils and parents feel comfortable talking to teachers about any issues they have and that teachers regularly remind students that they can talk to them about anything.
- Hold a wellness week – They’re a great way of highlighting the importance of looking after your body and your brain.
- Talk openly about mental health – Unfortunately some people are still embarrassed to admit it if their mental health is suffering, by raising it regularly this may make them feel able to talk to someone.
- Encourage social time – Make time every week for the children to socialise together in class and support and encourage those that find this difficult.
- Have an in-house counselor – Although teachers may be able to help with some issues, sometimes students would benefit from speaking to the school counselor to help them resolve personal or interpersonal problems.
- Make regular time for mindfulness – Mindfulness is about paying attention and being aware of the present moment. It helps us learn about our reactions, patterns and ourselves. It shows us we have choices and can take time and space to respond, rather than react to everyday stresses.
The AISM wellbeing way
Evidence shows that wellbeing programmes in schools help boost children’s mental, social and emotional skills. Leigh Janett, Deputy Head of Junior School and Mindfulness Coach at the Australian International School Malaysia (AISM), shares with us how they support the wellbeing of their school community.
“It’s so important for schools to look after not just how a child is performing academically, but also their wellbeing. By looking after how they think and feel you’re giving them the opportunity to be happy and healthy. Just some of the initiatives we use regularly are encouraging physical activity, weekly circle time, wellbeing hour and mindfulness.
“I’ve seen for myself time and time again the huge benefits that mindfulness has for our students, teachers and parents especially in today’s ever changing world. It has such a positive effect on someone’s well being, happiness and in turn their academic performance. This is why I am so glad that it has a special place in the Australian Curriculum. Throughout the school they follow topics such as setting goals, positive relationships, gratitude, self-compassion and resilience.
“During ‘Wellbeing hour’ we give students the opportunity to engage in a mixture of mindful activities and our weekly ‘Circle Time’ sessions enable students to air concerns and talk through issues. We encourage them to lead an active lifestyle, as not only does it keep them healthy it also helps them maintain overall good wellbeing by building self-confidence and character, developing motor skills and relieving stress.”
The better you feel the more you can achieve, so it’s important as parents we choose a school for our children that will look after their wellbeing ensuring a great experience and successful exam results will follow!
If you would like to find out how the experienced team at AISM can support your child or want to explore the campus from the comfort of your own home via a virtual tour, click here. Alternatively, you can contact a member of the friendly Admissions Team on 03-8949 5000 or email admissions@aism.edu.my.
And if you like what you see, for a limited time only AISM has reduced the entry cost* for new student enrolments. Register your interest here to join our Open Week from 23 to 28 August and find out more about the school.
*Terms and conditions apply
AISM is the most established Australian curriculum provider in Malaysia. For more than 20 years, AISM that employs predominantly Australian trained teachers, has catered for children from age 3 (Pre-school) to age 18 (Pre-University). Located in a secure gated community in Seri Kembangan, AISM overlooks the picturesque South Lake of The Mines Resort City, a short drive from Kuala Lumpur City Centre.
