Developing Independence

This term, Room 14 students will be encouraged to demonstrate more independence when they arrive at school. This is in line with the school newsletter item which is attached below. I have talked to the students about this and we have formulated some steps we will take each day, including: carrying and hanging their own bag, organising their desk, chair and equipment and lastly completing their morning work activity by themselves or with a student partner. By the end of the week, we will also say goodbye to our parents at the door, rather than be escorted in. Please see me if you have any questions about this approach.

This appeared in the school newsletter in Week 8, Term 2.

Developing Independence At Wattle Grove Primary School, we aim to provide a learning environment that encourages the opportunity for all students to achieve their personal best. There are a number of ways that families can support their child in these areas. 1. Commit to your child going to school every day on time. One of the most important things you can do to ensure your child has a bright future is to make sure he or she goes to school every day – and gets there on time. 2. Make sure your child gets enough sleep. A good night’s sleep consolidates learning, as well as assists future learning. Children need between 10-12 hours of sleep each day. Help kids get sufficient sleep by having a regular bed-time and get-up time each day. 3. Establish work & study habits. The most successful students are those that develop regular study habits that suit their lifestyle, their study style and their school’s expectations. 4. Develop self-organisational skills. Successful students are often well-organised, self-directed and self-motivated. Such skills as packing school bags and organising morning routines can be great lessons that impact on how kids perform at school. Throughout the year, we encourage students to develop their independence by completing their classroom morning routines by themselves. Research has shown that a structured and organised morning routine is conducive to successful student learning. Our focus is on developing this classroom environment, particularly in all Year 2-6 classes. Children are encouraged to enter the classroom prepared to independently organise themselves for the school day ahead.  We look forward to working with parents to ensure the success of this whole school approach.