Newsletter - 19th June 2020

Dear Families,
 
I do hope you are all keeping well.  Congratulations for surviving another week of lock down, whether that be working while the children are at school, or providing learning for your children at home. You are all playing your part to combat this virus.

Self care
Speaking to families over the past few days, it seems lots of us have had a challenging week. Maybe the weather has had a part to play. While children are of course central to school and home life, and we are all working hard to support their needs, I believe it is becoming even more important for us (the adults) to address our own mental health as well. Think of the announcements given when on an aeroplane: ‘put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.’  I think this is wise advice, particularly now. So, whether it be a good book, a 5 mile run, a bubble bath or a glass (or two) of wine, please look after yourselves this weekend. If we are feeling well looked after, the children will be better for it. 
 
Social Stories
This week I was alerted to the website of an American speech and language pathologist, coincidently her name is also Tara! She has some good resources on her website including some topical social stories. If you have not come across these before, social stories are designed to explain a feeling, situation or subject in simple language often with pictures or symbols to aid understanding. They are designed for children with Autism, but I think are a helpful resource for any child who may be needing support understanding why we are living the way we are these days. There are ones about social distancing, visiting health care professionals, going for walks and why people are wearing masks. They are American, but may be of use with some of our children. Do have a look
https://www.autismlittlelearners.com/search/label/COVID-19
 
Thank You!
Thank you to Pin and Murray (Kitty’s mum and dad) for donating several hundred pounds worth of quality used books. These are decommissioned library stock which Murray has collected and financed for us. We are so very grateful! They will be ready for adding to our library stock when we all return to school. 
 
Miss Penny’s Weekly Family Challenge - Joyful June from Action for Happiness
I hope this chart is prompting you to intentionally have some joyful moments this month. I am certainly taking up tomorrow’s challenge – do something playful for the fun of it! Come on children, and adults too, what can you do this weekend to just have a bit of fun? Let’s all make a point of making time to be a bit silly! Photographic evidence optional!  See https://www.actionforhappiness.org/joyful-june.
 
As I have said before, please make sure you and your children are observing the 2 metre rule when out and about and meeting up with friends.  Also please continue to avoid crowded places such as the popular beaches. I have been getting up early on Sundays to go to the beach with my dogs before the crowds arrive. I’m home in time for elevenses having had a great time with the beach almost all to ourselves!
 
Please continue to make sensible choices, particularly if you are sending your children to school.
 
Keep safe everybody,
 
All the very best
Tara Penny
Head of School