Welcome to Term 3!! I cannot believe that we are halfway through the school year. This term our key focus is around the Footstep of Engagement. We are looking for learners who are active in their learning, eager to participate, willing to stretch and challenge themselves, are motivated and inspired to do better.

This week, as I have walked around the school, the playground and visited classrooms, I have taken the opportunity to catch up with as many students as possible. It has made me appreciate the uniqueness of each child we have here at St Monica’s. Your child/ren are a unique and precious gift from God, created with love and purpose. No two children are the same—each carries their own personality, talents, dreams, and ways of seeing the world. At St Monica’s, we celebrate this beautiful diversity, recognising that every child brings something special to our community. In their laughter, questions, kindness, and creativity, we see the wonder of God’s handiwork. We are blessed to walk alongside them as they grow into the people they are meant to be.

I am very pleased to welcome on staff, but particularly in 5 Blue, Mrs Kathy French. We also welcome the following new students, and their families, into our school community: Xavier 1W, William 3B, Julian 3B, Thea 3W, Darcy 3W, Harry 5B and Zali 5M.  We wish you a happy and long association with St Monica’s Primary School.

Included in today’s newsletter, and in hardcopy to the eldest child from each family, is a Whole School Overview. With so many events and opportunities that lie ahead this term I felt this would be helpful for families so that you have key information and calendar events for the term on one page.

Tuning Into Your Child 

In the hustle and bustle of daily life finding moments to truly connect with our children can make a world of difference. One powerful way to do this is by simply "being in the moment" with them.

What Does "Being in the Moment" Mean? - It's about tuning in to what your child is doing, thinking, and feeling right now. It’s putting aside distractions for a little while and focusing on their world. When we do this, we send a clear message: "You matter to me, and what you care about matters to me." This simple act is the foundation of a strong, trusting relationship.

Easy Ways to Be "In the Moment" Sometimes, the simplest approaches are the most effective. Here are a few ideas inspired by child development experts:

• Just Let Them Be: Try to accept your child's activities without constantly directing or correcting. If they're using building blocks as imaginary people instead of building a tower 'properly', that's perfectly okay! Letting them lead shows you respect their imagination and choices.
• Notice and Gently Encourage: Show interest by noticing what they're doing, without judgment. Instead of correcting, try describing or asking gentle questions. For example, "Wow, are those big blue blocks the grumpy giants? And is that little red block trying to sneak past?" This shows you're paying attention to their story.
• Listen Beyond the Words: When your child talks, especially if they're telling a long, rambling story about their day, try to tune into the feelings behind the words. Are they really just saying they felt happy, excited, or maybe a bit unsure about something? Acknowledging the feeling ("Sounds like you had a really fun day!") can mean more than just hearing the plot points.
• Understand Behaviour's Message: Sometimes, especially with older children or teenagers, their actions speak louder than words. If your teen is just quietly hanging around the kitchen while you make dinner, they might not want a big chat but simply feel comforted by being close to you. A quiet hug, a shared smile, or inviting them to help chop veggies (without pressure to talk) can be a powerful way to connect and show you understand their need for closeness.

Building these moments doesn't require hours – even a few focused minutes regularly can strengthen your bond significantly. By tuning in, showing acceptance, and listening deeply, we build relationships where our children feel truly seen and valued. 

Adapted from “Being in the moment: why it’s good for parent-child relationships” raisingchildren.net.au

We are currently advertisting for a Canteen Assistant, to work alongside Wendy in the St Monica's Canteen. Are you, or do you know someone who would be, interested in working 20hrs a fortnight. If so, please click on this link: https://careers.cg.catholic.edu.au/jobs/canteen-assistant-evatt-act-australia