We say here at St Monica’s that there is something for everyone! We celebrate the uniqueness of all our students and encourage them to just ‘be themselves’ This mentality is just as true for the adult members of our school community as well.

Part of being yourself is having some self-compassion for yourself. Self-compassion is being kind to yourself even when things don’t go the way you expect. It’s being aware of your feelings and treating yourself with the same warmth, care and understanding you would give someone you care about. At times, you might find that you are too hard on yourself. You might compare yourself to other parents and judge yourself harshly… this is natural. Self-compassion helps you be kinder to yourself.

When you’re self-compassionate, you’re a good role model for your child.  By role-modelling kindness to yourself, you’re helping your child learn that it’s OK to make mistakes, forgive yourself and try to do better next time. This helps your child develop self-compassion too.

Sabbath Week – Woo hoo it’s Week Seven, Sabbath Week! Have you been able to take some time out of your busy schedule this week to relax, refresh and reflect? Everyone looks forward to Sabbath Week where there are no meetings and things are made low key for the week. People tell me they often feel refreshed during and after Sabbath week as it allows them to catch up on bits and pieces and to think about slowing down a little. Normally, we are so busy rushing around trying to get things done; we sometimes miss out on the wonderful things that are happening around us.

Harmony Week – next week is Harmony Week, celebrated Australia wide and brings together all Australians from all different backgrounds. The week is about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. Next Tuesday, we will acknowledge and celebrate the diverse cultures that exist at our school. All members of our school community are encouraged to wear orange, or the National Dress from the country / culture they come from.

A very warm welcome to the following families who have joined our school community recently: Adhikari family (Aarshi 4B), Singh family (Gurnoor 2B), Todd family (Cooper 5W) and the Faisal family (Areesha 4W and Aryaan 6W).  May you have a long and happy association with St Monica’s Primary School.

Important dates for your diaries:

• NAPLAN Language Conventions – Monday 20 March
• NAPLAN Numeracy – Tuesday 21 March
• Harmony Day (wear orange) – Tuesday 21 March
• St Monica’s Fete – Saturday 1 April.

Peace and blessings always,