Boneo Buzz: 13th October

Dear Parents and Carers,

Today, I would like to address a matter of paramount importance that affects each of us, particularly our children. It is a topic that demands our attention and collective action – the exposure of young minds to the distressing media coverage of atrocities in the Middle East.

In recent times, the media landscape has been flooded with news reports, images, and videos that document the heart-wrenching suffering and violence in the Middle East. These events are undeniably significant, but as responsible parents and educators, we must be vigilant about how this exposure impacts our children.

Children, in their formative years, are incredibly perceptive and vulnerable. Their developing minds can easily be overwhelmed by the relentless stream of distressing information that reaches them through various media outlets. Consequently, this exposure can have a profound and lasting impact on their emotional and psychological well-being.

Here are some key reasons why we should prioritise protecting our children from excessive media coverage of Middle East atrocities:

Emotional Well-Being: Constant exposure to traumatic events can lead to anxiety, depression, and even desensitisation to violence. It is essential that we shield our children from such harmful effects.

Age-Appropriate Information: Children may not possess the cognitive tools needed to process and understand complex geopolitical issues. It is our responsibility to provide them with age-appropriate information and context.

Encouraging Empathy: While we should not expose our children to unnecessary trauma, it is important to foster empathy and compassion for those affected by these atrocities. We can achieve this by discussing these issues in a controlled and educational environment.

Maintain a Sense of Safety: Children need to feel safe and secure in their homes and schools. Excessive exposure to violence can undermine this sense of security, leading to feelings of fear and insecurity.

As a school community, we must work together to strike a balance between educating our children about the world’s realities and protecting their innocence.

Here are some steps we can take:

Open Communication: Encourage open and honest discussions with your children about what they may have seen or heard. Listen to their concerns and provide age-appropriate explanations.

Monitor Media Consumption: Be mindful of the media content your children are exposed to. Set limits on screen time and use parental controls when necessary.

Provide Context: If your child expresses interest or concern about world events, provide context and engage in conversations that emphasise the importance of peace, tolerance, and understanding.

Our school is committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for our students. Reach out to teachers if you have concerns or need support in addressing these issues within the school context.

Let us remember that our children are our future, and it is our duty to protect and guide them through the complexities of the world. By working together as a community, we can ensure that our children grow up to be informed, compassionate, and resilient individuals.

As October is Mental Health Month.

You may find some aspects of this resource list helpful:

Helping my children after trauma: A guide for parents.

Support is also available through external services including:

headspace: 1800 650 890

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

Instrumental Music Tuition

Enrolment for our music program is now open! If your child is interested in joining our program in Term 4, and learning a new instrument, I encourage you to sign them up today! Our program provides students with an enriching and engaging experience, where students have fun and learn a new skill with their peers. To enrol or find out more, please contact Musicorp at 1300 858 911 or visit the website at https://rent.musicorp.com.au/tuition_online_eoi/.

Gareth Holloway

Instrumental Music Tutor

School Uniform Price Update

We have been advised by our uniform supplier, Advanced Promotional Clothing, that due to the ongoing cost increases in all areas of production, they will be regretfully increasing the prices of our uniform items.

Price list effective November 1st (inclusive of GST);

Tee Shirt                              $24.00

Short Sleeve Polo               $28.00

Long Sleeve Polo                $31.00

Hoods (no zip)                     $46.00

Zip Hoods                            $48.00

Sun Hats                              $17.00

Beanies                                $18.00

School Bags                         $61.00

Shorts                                   $25.00

2024 Prep Transition

There’s something particularly exciting about welcoming new prep students into our school. It’s a special kind of buzz – perhaps a unique combination of nerves, excitement and the realisation that a new chapter is about to begin for our littlest learners.  

Our new prep students completed their first of many transition sessions this week. It was a pleasure to see the children making new friends, sharing their interests and special talents with us, and trying new things.

Congratulations on a terrific start, we can’t wait to see you all again next week.

Year 4 Golden Valley Camp

Community Garden Program