Holy Cross College, Ellenbrook
'I came that they may have life, and have it to the full' John 10:10
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Habits and Wellbeing

01/04/2020
LIFE@HCC

We recognise that many people in our community are feeling concerned about Coronavirus (Covid-19). These thoughts and feelings are normal and understandable. As we are taking precautions such as good hygiene and social distancing, there are also things we can do for our mental health and wellbeing.

What is important for our students, whether they are at school or self-isolating, is that they develop a routine for Online Learning. Holy Cross College encourages parents to read through the below image that outlines some beneficial student habits. These habits will guide your child as they navigate through their online learning, whilst they will also support their mental health and wellbeing.

Many of us are spending a lot more time in our homes already and this will possibly continue in the coming weeks. With these uncertain times, we must do our very best to practice a positive mindset. And it is practice, consistent practice, that will make a huge difference in ourselves, your children and as staff members. The idea is to complete at least one of the six daily actions of happiness (ideally more). A way we can do this as a community is to practice this as a family.

  1. Do a gratitude activity.
  2. Do something kind/serve others.
  3. Appreciate your friends.
  4. Empathy.
  5. Reflect on great things.
  6. Community.

For more detail refer to this link: https://d2saw6je89goi1.cloudfront.net/uploads/digital_asset/file/679840/Daily_Action_Habits_A3.pdf

This week we have been encouraging students to complete the daily wellness activity or challenge during the morning HTG. They can also complete these at other times throughout the day. The daily wellness activity or challenge will assist the students’ learning journey by keeping them connected, active and motivated. We realise that not all of the activities are for everyone, but it is hoped that they will get some benefit out of trying something new whilst also starting your day productively.

On Friday students will be introduced to Angela Duckworth’s teachings on grit using the “Hard Thing Rule.” The rule has three parts:

  1. Each member of the family has to do something hard, “something that requires practice, something where you’re going to get feedback telling you how you can get better, and you’re going to get right back in there and try again and again.”
  2. You must finish what you start. Duckworth requires her kids to finish a series of activities, a set of lessons, etc.
  3. No one gets to pick the “hard thing” for anyone else, so your child gets to choose their own challenge.

We encourage the whole family to get involved and follow, holding each other accountable and setting an example for your child. The “hard thing” can be an instrument, a sport, a subject or area of interest, an activity, and so on. The “Hard Thing Rule” combines passion (because you choose what to pursue) and perseverance (because you promise to stick to it), and your child will experience success or improvement with something challenging. This will build confidence and teach them the benefits of grit.

Mrs Christina Davini

Assistant Deputy Principal – Inter-relationships