School Social Worker Message

Looking for the silver lining

Finding positivity in such challenging times can seem ridiculous and sometimes even impossible, but I’ve noticed that many conversations I’ve had over the last few weeks have included moments of gratitude and perhaps renewed perspectives about life. Watching my local community support each other has been quite uplifting. I found myself looking for teddy bears in windows or gardens and reading messages of hope amongst the rainbows that were chalked onto our footpaths. My street started an online group to support one another, we stood to reflect in our driveways together on Anzac Day, and we supported local business by ordering fruit and veggie and takeaway meals… that magically appeared at our door, what a win/ win situation!  Whilst there has been so much tragedy and sadness in our world and many families in our community will be facing some big challenges at the moment, the situation in Western Australia and the optional return to school has given us some hope. 

I encourage you to talk with your children about what the silver linings might be for them within this Covid cloud. Is it sharing games together, walking or riding together, having time to just be at home, or maybe communicating with loved ones in different ways?  If they are feeling that they have missed out or they are focussed on what they have lost, remind them that we will get back to normal again eventually and those things that they miss like sport, playdates and birthday parties will all return!

The decision about when to send your child back to school might be a particularly difficult one for you and some of you might feel quite anxious about the prospect. Remember that what is right for you and your family may not be the same for other families and make the decision that you are comfortable with knowing that you will have your teacher and school’s support. Please continue to look after one another over the coming weeks and especially make an effort to reach out to other parents who may be feeling isolated or struggling, even if it can only be a phone call or message. 

Whilst these times can be worrying, it’s still important that you allow yourself to have moments of joy and be happy. Some days will be harder than others, but actively bringing your attention to the positive may help make the hard days a little easier! 

Lisa Mueller
School Social Worker
Available Mondays and Wednesdays