Dear Whānau

We all knew it was probably a matter of when, rather than if Covid would find its way back into our community. We have been here before and we can take comfort from all that we learned last time. Please take time to talk with your children about what all of this means. Our children hear everything that is going on around them, and they feel our anxiety too.  Although the idea of being 'off school' for a few days sounds awesome, they are probably picturing a fun time like school holidays, not the reality of self-isolation at home and not seeing their friends.

What our children need right now is to feel reassured, comforted, and loved.  To know it’s all going to be ok. Play outside and go on walks (following recommended guidelines).  Bake cookies and paint pictures. Play board games and watch movies. Do a science experiment together or find virtual field trips to the zoo.  Start a book and read together as a family. Snuggle under warm blankets and do nothing.

Don’t be concerned about them 'regressing' with their learning over the coming days. Every single child is in this boat and they all will be ok.  We will all be ok!

If we can leave you with one thing, it’s this: at the end of all of this, your child's mental health will be more important than their academic skills.  How they felt during this time will stay with them long after the memory of what they did during the coming weeks is long gone. So keep that in mind, every single day… take care, be kind, stay strong.