Shining Lights for Week 4, Term 3, 10/8/2023
Habits of Mind: Managing Impulsivity
In Week Two, I wrote about Habits of mind and the importance of Costa and Kallic's framework for helping student learning, highlighting persistence as a habit that keeps students focussed at their work has clear benefits, but with so many distractions in life, its sometimes hard to keep at one thing.
It takes considerable discipline to develop the habit of managing impulsivity, but people who do this are able to regulate their ability to focus on reason who reserve judgement, read instructions carefully and plan in ways that allow for smoother paths to outcomes.
We are more like to take impulsive action when we are emotionally heightened, or tired and under pressure. Our children are often affected by the conditions that cause impulsivity, and as they grow and develop, they often lack capacities to self-regulate. As parents and adults, we can help. When you encounter a parenting moment that needs everyone to slow down and focus, try one of the following strategies with your son or daughter.
STAR:
Stop—Count to 10. Take a deep breath. Take a walk.
Think—What is it about this situation that’s causing my feelings
Act—what actions can I take to relieve these feelings?
Reflect—Was this a good solution? What insights have I gained?
SODAS:
Situation—What, where and why is this happening that produces my feelings?
Options—What are my options for actions to take?
Disadvantages—What disadvantages are there with each of these options?
Advantages—What advantages are there with each of these options?
Solutions—What is the best solution for me to take?
Sometimes we all need a moment to strop reframe and reconsider. Give it a go!
Be the light of Christ.
The Joy of Celebrating Kindergarten Students'
First 100 Days of School
The first 100 days of kindergarten mark a wonderful milestone in the lives of our youngest learners. These days are not just a countdown but an opportunity to celebrate the incredible growth and development that has taken place since the start of their educational journey. Recognising and celebrating this milestone reinforces a love for learning, fosters a sense of accomplishment, and creates lasting memories for both students and educators.
For our kindergarten students, every day is an opportunity for discovery and growth. Celebrating their first 100 days acknowledges the hard work they've put into learning new concepts, developing social skills, and adapting to life at school.
At the heart of our approach to education is the belief in a growth mindset – the understanding that with effort, perseverance, and the right support, we can achieve remarkable things. Watching our kindergarten students embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and celebrate their successes is a testament to their innate resilience and determination.
Congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone Kindergarten. Keep shining bright, and remember that you're capable of achieving incredible things. The adventure has just begun!
Driving
Now I have a 19 year old and a 21 year old (who do frequent long hauls), so you know that I have had many restless nights while they are on the road. I’m sure I won’t be completely at ease for a few years yet. The Red Ps rite of passage is one of those moments where you pray that you have done something right with your parenting.
From the teacher aspect…what could wrong? 17 year olds , search for identity, ransomed by peer pressure, mates turning 18, alcohol, first flush of freedom….
As with so many things, I have a LONG driving speech and, as with so many things, I know that it won’t cure the problem. But one kid might remember it, and one makes it worth it. The vast majority come through it (maybe with some panel damage to varying degrees), but some don’t. After suicide (alas), car accidents head the grim list of causes of death for young Australians.
The Year 12 Trials remind me that (as a consequence of being around for a long time) I have far too many “too excited after exams, wasn’t thinking” bad car and motorbike stories. All too frequently I hear of near misses and poor decisions.
I have been to funerals.
This is from the Government site, repeat after me:
When on your red Ps, you must:
- only drive cars
- display red P plates clearly on the front and back of the car, on the outside
- only tow trailers up to 250 kilograms of unloaded weight, and you must display your red Ps on the back of the trailer
- ensure everyone in the car is in a seat with a seatbelt or approved restraint – each person must use a seatbelt or restraint
- only drive solo in the kind of car you took your driving test in. If you drove an automatic transmission or clutchless manual car in your test, that is the only type of car you may drive on your Ps unsupervised.
You must not:
- drive above the speed limit of 90 km/h
- have any alcohol in your system when driving
- supervise a learner driver
- drive a high-performance vehicle
- use any mobile phone while driving, or while your vehicle is stopped but not parked. This includes hands-free devices or loud speakers.
The site also talks about passenger restrictions.
I love the Police. The support they give the College is wonderful. Wish there were double the number (and I’m guessing so do they). If a Red P plater learns a life saving lesson by being rounded up early for an infringement, you got to love the Police as well. Think about it being your kid.
Traffic and carparks at LCCC is subject to significant complexity and sensitivities and a fuller discussion would far outstrip the space I have here. Suffice to say that every Lumen Principal (and I have worked for them all, Mr Giles being prominent) has fought, submitted, argued, cajoled…done what they could and are still working to do what they can. We have a beautiful, magnificent site – but the traffic aspect is not easy. Everyday, without exaggeration, we are working with the kids and parents about safety, providing the education and supervision.
Are things ever perfect? No. Kids are kids sometimes, they don’t concentrate. If you are reading this, you’re a parent who has been around the school long enough to have seen some ordinary stuff. Despite all the communication, education (et al) you only have to be at an entrance or exit at a peak time to be worried.
It is completely irresponsible, and out of order, and likely illegal to drive / drop off / pick up / anywhere in or around the College with anything less than the care you would take when you are sure that a kid is going to come out of nowhere.
It’s a battle, every day (not just with the Red P plates)
REFLECTING ON WORK EXPERIENCE
(Study Work Grow Article 4 August, 2023)
Work experience holds a special place in the educational journey of high school students. It provides a unique opportunity for you to step out of your comfort zone and dive into the real world of work. But beyond the initial placement, the real value of work experience lies in the reflections that follow. In this blog, we’ll delve into some questions you can ask yourself when reflecting on your placement.
Discovering your preferences
Think about the activities during your work experience that made you excited and engaged. What tasks did you enjoy the most? Also, consider what you were naturally good at – the things that felt easy for you to handle. These clues can help you understand your interests and strengths.
Understanding the working world
Remember the people you met during your work experience? Did you find someone whose job made you think, “I’d love to do that!”? Reflecting on these encounters can help you shape your career ambitions. It’s like connecting the dots between what you enjoyed doing and the careers that match those interests.
Learning professional expectations
Consider the rules and expectations you encountered in the workplace. What did you learn about how to behave professionally? This could include things like punctuality, communication, and teamwork. Reflecting on these lessons can prepare you for success in any job you pursue.
Recognising areas for growth
Were there moments when you felt like you could have used more training or knowledge? Reflecting on this can help you identify areas where you might need to improve your skills. Remember, it’s okay to acknowledge these gaps – they’re opportunities for growth.
Defining your career goals
Think about whether you see yourself working in the same industry or job you experienced during your work placement. Why or why not? Articulating your reasons can help you clarify your career goals and motivations. It’s all about envisioning your future and what you want to achieve.
Exploring new horizons
While reflecting, don’t be afraid to think about your future options too. Is there another job or industry that has caught your curiosity? Considering different options can help you stay open-minded and discover new paths you might not have thought of before.
After your work experience placement is finished, take some time to sit down and ponder these questions. Write down your thoughts, and don’t hesitate to explore your feelings and aspirations – each reflection can take you a step closer to understanding yourself and your future direction.
