Guidance Counsellor Corner
I would like to introduce myself, Tegan Towler, as the Guidance Counsellor here at Holy Spirit. I began my journey as a Guidance Counsellor with Townsville Catholic Education in 2015, visiting many different schools and towns along the way. I am fortunate to now call Holy Spirit ‘home’, having moved to this wonderful school in 2020.
About my role
Guidance Counsellors work collaboratively within the school environment to provide assistance in supporting students. This can include classroom support, short-term counselling, assessment, planning adjustments for learning, and strategies for behavioural management. If concerns arise and are impacting your child at school, parents are encouraged to speak with the teacher as the first point of contact.
Promoting wellbeing and resilience through a preventative and inclusive approach is an area near and dear to me. This is why you will often hear me talking about programs, such as The Zones of Regulation Program. This year, I am excited to explore the use of Lego therapy to assist with building social skills. This is being offered to Year 2 and Year 3 cohorts initially. More details will be provided about this in the near future. If this is something you think your child may be interested in, you are welcome to speak with your child’s teacher for further information.
Lastly, I would like to draw your attention to a new online resource, SchoolTV. This is designed to empower you as parents/carers with credible and sound information with realistic, practical ongoing support strategies. Each newsletter you will find a new topic posted under the ‘Guidance Counsellor Corner’.
Take care,
Tegan
In this edition of SchoolTV - POSITIVE PARENTING
Despite the best efforts of parents around the world, the reality is, there is no such thing as the ‘perfect parent’. However, arming yourself with the right information is a good start!
Research shows that one of the most important protective factors in the lives of young people is a close relationship with a supportive adult. With the mental health of today’s young people being at an all-time low, it is simply not enough to parent effectively. Parents need to familiarise themselves with practical skills, knowledge and strategies when it comes to raising children.
Many parents today are overprotective, resulting in children being less independent, unable to problem-solve or self-regulate. Parents are failing to set clear boundaries, which is unfortunately making kids feel less secure. There is too much pressure on kids today. Parents fill their days with too many activities in an effort to avoid their child’s boredom.
In this edition of SchoolTV, parents will learn what is the best approach for primary and secondary school aged children.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please speak with your child’s teacher or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to the Positive Parenting edition of SchoolTV
https://hsstsv.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/positive-parenting
