Welcome

Hello and welcome to the August 2020 edition of Parent Talk. Drought, Bushfires, Floods, a Global Pandemic ….

In 2020, each of us and our families have been affected in some way by events outside our control.

It is unlikely the drought, bushfires, floods or COVID-19 pandemic will be the last crisis we will face in our lifetime. We have included links to resources that may assist you to support your own and your family’s mental and physical health.

TO LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL – Social Justice Sunday 30 August 2020

In the lead-up to Social Justice Sunday on 30 August, the Australian Catholic Bishops have released their annual Social Justice Statement. This year focuses on the critical subject of mental health with the Bishops encouraging faith communities, governments and individuals to make mental health a priority.

Taking care of yourself and your family

Looking at the world from the perspective of a child or young adult during COVID-19 may be frightening, challenging or disappointing. For instance, the nature of many co-curricular activities has changed, if they are able to go ahead at all.

There are many helpful resources available to assist you to start or continue a discussion with your child and check that both of you are feeling OK.

HSC and Student Wellbeing

Stay healthy HSC is a social media partnership between NESA and mental health organisation ReachOut to support students on their journey to this year's HSC.

The interactive website has many practical tips for staying active, connected and in charge of wellbeing, with focus on managing exam stress.

COVID-19 updates and latest HEALTH GUIDELINES

To assist you with accurate information and the latest guidelines, we have included some useful links to a suite of government pages that contain the most accurate and up to date information.

Supporting parents with children’s learning

Catholic Schools NSW has developed an excellent set of tools that can support the acquisition of early literacy and numeracy skills. The resources support early years learning though “everyday” activities.

Financial support for connecting to nbn

nbn have established a relief fund to help internet providers to connect families with children to support their education and continuous learning.

Your school community is invited to apply for the 2020 Roger O’Sullivan Memorial Award

CCSP’s annual Roger O’Sullivan Award for Family, School and Community Partnerships for Learning recognises authentic family and community engagement that enhances student outcomes. Now open, applications close on 25 September. Could your school community be the recipient of this $4,000 prize?

Growing Up Digital Australia: Invitation for parents and grandparents to have your say!

The Gonski Institute seeks to understand the health, wellbeing and learning impacts of growing up in a digital world on our young people. Here, parents and grandparents are invited to provide feedback on Growing Up Digital Australia and insights into this initiative.