March 18, 2012

Words From Wellbeing

Interested in Music and Events?

Wangaratta Friends of Lacluta invites students to assist in the planning of a musical event this year.

The main purpose of the event is to raise funds to assist young people in Lacluta – East Timor. As young people in Lacluta face significant barriers to completing school and tertiary education, the Wangaratta FOL group has provided 2 students ( a young man and young woman) with scholarships to study at university. Further funds raised during 2012 would enable more Lacluta students to receive educational scholarships to continue their studies over the next few years. A musical event is a great way of raising awareness about East Timor amongst people of all ages – especially young people and we are keen to involve Wangaratta students in community based work that supports other young people in our neighbouring countries.

Bernadette Fraser would happily meet with you to discuss further.
Email therese.rodway@galen.vic.edu.au for more information

Therese Rodway

February 20, 2012

Words From Wellbeing

Fresh Start for 2012 – Top Tips
Healthy food helps learning…..Eating breakfast helps kids concentrate and be cooperative in the classroom. Keep the lunch box full of healthy snacks and avoid refined sugar products, salt & fats.
Kids need help with homework…Where possible create a study space, routine times (as soon as you get home), as well as yummy healthy snacks as study incentives. Students can make use of the homework center on a Wednesday and catch up classes too!
Proper sleep habits are critical…… As you already know children are more tired then ever due to video games, smartphones, social media, TV, sports and study…have some “switch off” time from devices, especially 30mins before bedtime. Keep sleep time regular too!
Helping kids be organised…. The day will be much smoother if the family can create a calendar of events for each week, unpacking the school bag at the end of the day, discussing what’s on for the next day, looking at your child’s planner for homework and special dates, preparing the uniform and lunches the day before! Adapted from bodyandsoul.com.au

Year 12 Parent Support Blog/Forum
Is the onset of VCE and VCAL presenting some challenges as you work out what it all means for your son or daughter? A VCE/VCAL parent blog/forum will be set up to connect parents with each other to answers the questions you may have. Some areas may include differences between 1/2 and 3/4, outcomes, SATs and SACs, the UMAT, preferences, university course codes, prerequisites and basic familiarity with the VCAA website. Please refer to Galen Catholic College Wangaratta VCE and VCAL Study Information for 2012 for immediate information (info sent home in December 2012). For further info visit www.vcca.vic.edu.au or speak with Rob Walker (Careers Adviser) or your child’s homeroom teacher on 5721 6322.

For any other queries, suggestions or topics please email therese.rodway@galen.vic.edu.au

See the Galen website for information on The Big Brother Big Sister Program and how to be involved! https://galen.vic.edu.au/student-wellbeing/community-opportunities/

Therese Rodway

February 5, 2012

Words From Wellbeing

Welcome back! This year poses an opportunity for parents and students to email me certain issues or areas that could be mentioned or discussed in an educative way in this section of the newsletter. I will do my best to answer your questions or concerns and include relevant information. I will continue to include important services information, dates, and events as well as addressing areas of interest for parents and students. Please forward any wellbeing questions or issues that you would like to see covered to therese.rodway@galen.vic.edu.au

Wellbeing and wellbeing referrals covers many areas including mental health, cyber safety, health services, relationship, friendships, conflict, academic or exam stresses, stress management, community engagement, sexuality, substance misuse (i.e, binge drinking), partying safely, and many more…

SERVICES:
Free legal advice on child support
21 February 2012, Free half hour sessions between 9am and 5pm
Venue: Upper Murray Family Care, 36 Mackay Street,Wangaratta Vic 3677
Please phone (03) 9269 0408 for an appointment or 1800 677 402 during business hours.

Therese Rodway

November 30, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

Enhancing Education and Local Solutions for families
Are you from an Indigenous or Torres Strait Islander background and have children aged from 0 -18 years? Ovens and King Wangaratta introduce the Parental and Community Engagement Program (PaCe). PaCe works alongside students and families (in partnership) to develop and enhance educational outcomes by creating local solutions for families. Some activities include tutors, IT support, physical education sessions, and how to help with homework. For more information about a local solution, please call Sakina Babia on 03 5723 2000 or drop in to the 1st Floor for 90-100 Ovens Street. Wangaratta.
TOOLS for CHANGE
A Money Mentor Program to help you with your finances.
Are you a woman who has left a domestic violence situation? Would you like to feel less stressed about money? We can match you with a caring, non-judgemental woman who can support you with managing your finances. A Tools for Change mentor can help by meeting with you to: Share budgeting ideas; explore ways to reduce daily costs; look at ways to reduce credit card debt; help you build financial confidence; or just simply listen. For further information, please contact Women’s Health Goulburn North East on 0357223009.
For any other wellbeing concerns speak with your child’s homeroom teacher or contact a member of wellbeing on 5721 6322.

November 1, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

Revivify Leadership Camp
3 day activity-based camp incorporating personal growth sessions, helpful skills and strategies for dealing with life’s tough stuff with inspirational local young camp leaders. WHEN: ?Friday 16th December – Sunday 18th December. WHERE?: Valley Homestead. WHO?: 14yr olds (Boys & Girls)?- at risk of disengaging from mainstream schools? – have experienced challenging life experiences ?- want to socially connect with other young people? – want to participate in this project and the camp. AIM?: Local young leaders share their journeys and experiences to empower, support and encourage the young people. To share the life skills that they have learnt and found helpful in handling the tough stuff life can throw at us. If you are interested please let Therese Rodway in wellbeing know ASAP.
Beating the Flames
Were you affected by the 2009 fires? Are you interested in hearing about the stories of those who survived Black Saturday from a woman’s perspective? Beating the Flames is a document that tells those stories. Produced by Women’s Health Wangaratta. Access resources at http://www.whealth.com.au/publications_research_reports.html
Parenting Adolescents Workshops
‘Staying sane in the insane world of parenting teens.’
When: Wednesday 9th November, 7 -8.30pm. Where: Ovens and King Community Health Service (Downstairs community room). Focusing on understanding brain development, understanding emotional changes, communicating with your uncommunicative teen, teens and technology, what NOT to worry about. Tea, coffee and light supper provided. Presented by the staff of Counselling and Support Services. Please contact Intake on 03 5723 2000 for bookings.
For any other wellbeing concerns speak with your child’s homeroom teacher or contact a member of Wellbeing on 5721 6322.

Therese Rodway

October 17, 2011

Words from Wellbeing

I hope everyone has come back from holidays feeling rested and refreshed. You may come across a new face over the next 8 weeks. Amy Crimmin is completing a student placement here at Galen until the end of the term. Amy is currently studying through the combined associate degree program between GoTAFE and Deakin University. Through GoTAFE she is completing a Diploma of Community Services and through Deakin University beginning a Bachelor of Health Sciences. Amy will be with Therese over in the Wellbeing office and will learn all about Galen’s Wellbeing and Pastoral care services.
Amy will also be spending some time at the GPC and observing classroom teachers in the areas of Health and Human Development, Psychology, Biology and Home Economics. She will also be learning about promotion, prevention and program implementation. Amy says she is quite happy to answer any questions that anyone might have about GoTAFE or Deakin University, or her selected courses. Amy aims to complete a teaching degree and work in the education sector. Please do your best to make her feel welcome.

Interchange
In a couple of weeks a representative will be coming to Galen to give information about Interchanges respite program. Interchange is looking for volunteers to provide respite to carers who care for children/young adolescents with disabilities. There are recreational programs and host programs. It is great opportunity if you are interested in the disabilities sector, or if you just want to give back to the community. If you are interested continue to check the daily news bulletin, as the time and day will be specified at a later date.

Would you like $500 to help pay for your child’s education?
• Do you have a Health Care Card?
• Do you have some regular household income?
• Are you 18 or over?
• Are you willing to attend 4 informal workshops?
If you answered yes to these four questions then you could be eligible for the Saver Plus Program. Berry Street is now offering additional places in Wangaratta. Participation in Saver Plus can earn you matched savings of up to $500 to be spent on items like: Uniforms; Computers; School Camps; School Books etc.
To find out more about this exciting program, phone Peter Grey at Berry Street, on 0457 849 112 or e-mail on pgrey@berrystreet.org.au
For any other wellbeing concerns speak with your child’s homeroom teacher or contact a member of Wellbeing on 5721 6322.

Therese Rodway

September 14, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

Wangaratta Family Support Options for parents/carers or guardians

‘Whatever!’ Parenting Adolescents 4 week Program on Wednesdays 26^th Oct 2 Nov, 9^th Nov and 16^th Nov from 6.30-8.30pm

Tuning in to Kids- emotionally intelligent parenting (2-8 years), Tues. 18^th Oct – 22^nd Nov. (Not cup day) from 7.00 – 9pm.

Positive Parenting Program (2-10yrs) (4 wks) 29^th Nov. – 20^th Dec from 7.00-9.00pm.

All workshops are held at the Pangerang Community House at 38 Ovens St Wangaratta. Phone Pangerang CH 03 57213813 for more information and bookings.

Preparing Students with Disabilities for Transition

This information session for parents and educators of young people with disabilities or learning difficulties in Secondary School in Victoria is a free event. Wednesday 19^th October, Session Times: 5:45pm-8:00pm Memorial Hall, Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.

The session focuses on options and supports that are available to students with a disability who transitioning from school in this region with a structured sequence of presentations. Representatives from employment agencies, apprenticeship centres, further education, day programs, Centrelink and others will be in attendance to answer specific questions. RSVP: Friday 14th October 2011 to pathways@netracksllen.org.au. Enquiries: 03 5762 7777.

For any wellbeing concerns speak with your child’s homeroom teacher or contact a member of wellbeing on 5721 6322.

August 18, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

As has been mentioned before in wellbeing words, social media has become a much used resource for young people in the way they communicate, socialise and express themselves. The follow clip will allow you to immerse yourself in the reality of this media and its impact on young people. http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=GTWqZc1B144

As this area moves at such as fast pace, as a community we are all grappling with the explicit teaching and moral development for our young people. Cheryl Taylor (Library) and Therese Rodway recently attended a workshop about Generationsafe ikeep safe, an interactive whole school and community framework to the Internet world: http://generationsafe.ikeepsafe.org/

This framework, starting with an evaluation of our systems and policies, will incorporate the already good things happening by the IT reference committee, IT Team, Library and Resources team. Plus developing processes and systems in the school. Stay tuned for more developments here!

The following resources will be useful for parents for putting parameters in place at home, having the conversation about computer usage and conversations together about the reality for families these days with technology: http:// www.commonsensemedia.org/

Have a browse of the resources and continue to have the conversation with your children. The online world is everybody’s business!
For more information please contact the IT team or Wellbeing team on 5721 6322.

Therese Rodway

August 14, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

Where do you draw the line?

When it comes to relationships, sometimes there’s a fine line between what’s ok and what’s not. What crosses the line for one person might be perfectly ok for another. And while sometimes the line is crystal clear, other times it’s a bit blurred. It all comes down to respect. Respect for others, and understanding of what crossing the line means to them. And respect for yourself, so you can be clear about where you draw the line. For more information about relationships and links to great resources and people you can talk to visit this website: http://www.theline.gov.au/

Headspace!

Mental health is the single largest health issue facing young Australians. Headspace provides services tailored to young people aged 12 to 25, taking into account the different challenges they may face such as: depression; body image issues; problematic drug and alcohol use, family or relationship problems and difficulties at school or at work. Visit www.headspace.org.au today.

ABCD Parent Support Program

Supporting parents parenting, engaging different strategies and looking at transition.

Where: Wangaratta High Country Library, 21 Docker St. Wangaratta.

When: August 19^th, 26^th, Sept 2nd, & 9^th (Friday’s)

Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm

Cost: $25.00. RSVP by August 17^th

Facilitator: Diane Hourigan

Phone Ovens and King CHS for bookings on 57232000.

Women, Family, Violence and Financial Security

Seeking: Brave Women who Want to be in Control of their Finances

Tools for Change is a unique financial mentoring program. We have trained women volunteers across Wangaratta and Shepparton to support you in your journey to financial confidence over 12 months.

Women exiting domestic violence often have limited financial skills because of the extreme level of control displayed by their partners. Pre-existing skills, resources and self-belief are often eroded through years of abuse and put-downs.

Tools for Change gives women the opportunity to meet regularly with another woman, who is compassionate, a good listener, who is trained in basic financial management. Tools for Change is not a counselling service. The mentor’s role is to support and guide you in the financial aspects of your and your family’s life. To find out more contact Sandi King or Karen O’Connor at Women’s Health Goulburn North East on 0357223009 or whealth@whealth.com.au. Enquires are treated with confidence and respect.

Therese Rodway

August 5, 2011

Words From Wellbeing

Facebook Syndrome: 9 Ways to Beat Your Facebook Addiction

Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Myspace… the list is endless. Millions of us are hooked. Our attention spans and interests are decreasing. Read on for some ways to change your habits.

How to tell if you are an internet addict

Before we start you need to find out if you are addicted to Facebook some signs include:

1. You are late for school because you are on Facebook
If you are ever late for school or a commitment because you were checking your updates on Facebook or Youtube then you know you are addicted. This is classic addict behavior.

2. You think about it when you are offline
Some people struggle to get to sleep because they are thinking about a game or wondering how their website statistics are looking. If you do this then it could be a sign of a problem.

3. Your friends and family comment on your excessive internet use
When other people around you start to notice that you have a problem it is generally a pretty accurate indicator. If your mates, coworkers or family members have made comments about how much you use the net then you need to read the rest of this article.

4. You check your accounts from your mobile phone
A phone is a talking tool. It is supposed to allow you to text and make calls. It is not for checking Facebook updates while you are having dinner with a friend.

5. You get stressed when a Facebook “friend” doesn’t add you
Noticed yourself getting stressed over something that has happened on Facebook? Ever feel like your online life is more real than your offline life? Time to make a change.

Ok – where to from here? You’ve established that you have a problem you need to get yourself some recovery tools. The strategies below are some simple ways you can beat it.

1. Admit that you have a problem
I want you to take a deep breath and then repeat after me. Seriously, say it “I have an internet addiction problem.” Good. Now that you have acknowledged the problem, lets proceed.

2. Write down exactly how much time you spend on each site
At the end of the day add up how much time you have been on your chosen site and record it in a little book. Write down your Facebook hours. Over time the hours should decrease.

3. Give yourself a set time of the day to visit
Realise that spending time on these sites is not a bad thing. In moderation it can be a lot of fun and even healthy. However, if you start to notice that your school assignment is still not done because you have been watching a friend’s skit on Youtube, then it has gone too far. Banning yourself outright often leads to a relapse. We don’t want this. Give yourself reasonable set times to visit and don’t break the limits.

4. Turn off email notifications
Email notifications are annoying reminders begging you to come back and visit Facebook. You don’t need to be notified every time someone sends you a message, so turn them off.

5. Leave your mobile at home or locked up somewhere!
Having a phone on you at all times just tempts you to check your Facebook every 5 seconds! Shouldn’t you be attending to what’s going in right there and then?

6. Meditate as soon as the thought arises
One of the most powerful ways to beat Facebook Syndrome is to look directly at the tempting thought as soon as it arises in your mind. You do not need to judge it or try to push it out – just look at it. The thought might arise as a worrying thought that begs you to check your updates so you don’t offend anyone. Or it might appear as a carefree thought saying that one quick look won’t hurt. Over time the power of the thought will get smaller!

7. Get off the computer!
Do you need to spend that much time on the computer? Instead turning on the computer when you get home, go for a walk, see a movie. Turn your computer off at a certain time each night.

8. Write down what you used to do before Facebook
Write down a list of things that you used to do before you got addicted to Facebook. For example: “I used to meet people in person and play sport”! Try and reconnect with what you used to do before Facebook. You will feel healthier and happier!

9. Block the sites the REAL way
You can block certain sites. Sure, you can unblock them as well, but the more barriers you put in your way the better. For Windows systems: Click START and then select RUN. In that box type notepad c:\WINDOWS\system32\drivers\etc\hosts. A neat little Notepad will appear with a bunch of computer jargon on it. Scroll down to the last line of that code and type 127.0.0.1 facebook.com. After that Facebook will never show up on your PC again. You can substitute the domain for any other domain that you do not want to view.

For Macs follow the link: http://www.proginosko.com/leechblock.html

If what you have read has concerned you, please contact wellbeing, the IT team at Galen or speak with a health care professional. This article was adapted from www.thedailymind.com. For more great ideas, the IT reference group will be hosting a parent info night on managing social sites amongst other things on the 10^th August & 7^th September 2011.

Therese Rodway