Welcome to Wk 8.  I was recently reading an article by Maggie Dent on The three c’s – connection, calmness and cohesion as being key to our children’s recovery after disruptive times such as these.

Connection – good teaching and learning begins with relationships.  Rebuilding familiar routines and rituals is important.  Even though drop offs are different, there are new cleaning routines and procedures, our brains love predictability and it wants to relate to a new sense of normal so it can relax a little.

Calmness – when we are stressed we are more likely to be reactive in our responses – perhaps a bit angrier, use a loud voice, get upset quickly etc.  Brain breaks at school – movement breaks, deep slow breathing, music and dance breaks are all positive ways that we are instilling a sense of calm.

Cohesion – when there is a strong sense of belonging there is a strong sense of cohesion. When social connections exist in a cohesive school community there is emotional support that assists all members of the community.  When students feel a sense of belonging in an environment that meets their wellbeing needs, their opportunities to learn well will be enhanced.

“Every child, parent and teacher is navigating this journey differently. Some have thrived learning in isolation, while others found it really difficult. Let’s be honest, everyone has been doing the best they can. Now is the time to gather together in communities to support our schools, especially as we take each day as best we can.” 

(Schools key to our kids’ recovery: Why the 3 Cs count before grades | Maggie Dent, 2020)