Tips for wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Nelson Mandela
Challenges
Throughout our lives we are going to experience different challenges, both big and small. There will be times where these challenges are exciting and maybe other times where challenges could feel scary and uncertain. These different challenges will push us to try new things, build our resilience and teach us new things about ourselves and the world around us.
When taking on challenges, we learn that we can work towards goals, overcome any obstacles and be resilient even when something is difficult. A growth mindset can help us take on new challenges, it builds our confidence to have a go at things, increases our self-esteem and encourages us to keep trying, even if something doesn’t work out the first time!
Our top tips for challenging ourselves:
Set yourself some goals you would like to reach this time next year (long term goals). Perhaps these can be things you’ve always wanted to do but never tried before. Break your goals down into medium-term goals and short-term goals (goals you can set to work towards the long-term goal in a few weeks or months).
Ask for help when needed. Challenging ourselves is not about getting through difficult times alone…sometimes we need a helping hand and that is okay!
Push yourself out of your comfort zone this week. You might want to try a new food, learn a new hobby, start a conversation with a different friend, or put your hand up in a lesson at school. Can you think of a SMART goal you would like to challenge yourself with this week? Click this link to learn more about SMART goals.
ThanksKids recognises the efforts and kindness of children and young people, and thanks them with personalised #NHSStars certificates. If you know a child or young person that deserves recognition for going above and beyond, don’t wait, nominate! [email protected].
Please contact [email protected] for information and advice about mental health and well-being for your child and your family.
We had the privilege, once again, of being chosen to form a judging panel for the Royal Society Young People’s Book Prize, which celebrates the best science books written for children each year. A group of children from Year 5 analysed and evaluated the shortlist, scoring each book on strict criteria before submitting our scores to be counted alongside all of the other panels. This week’s Friday Library Recommendations celebrate our top three shortlisted books.
In third place, and the book that went on to scoop the prize was Can You Get Rainbows In Space? by Dr Sheila Kanani, illustrated by Liz Kay
A fascinating read for curious minds, Can You Get Rainbows in Space? offers an engaging exploration into the science of colour. Aimed at young readers, this book answers some of life’s most intriguing questions, such as: Why is blood red? Why are carrots orange? Who invented the lightbulb? And why is the sky blue?
Packed with fun facts and easy-to-understand explanations, the book delves into the world of light, waves, and colour, unraveling the science behind everyday phenomena. Children will discover how some animals glow in the dark, why leaves change colour in autumn, and why veins appear blue despite the blood they carry being red.
But it’s not just about what we see on Earth – young readers will also learn from Dr Sheila Kanani, a real astronomer, how rainbows can be made in space. The book even explores the fascinating link between language and the way we perceive colour.
Ideal for sparking interest in science, this book is an educational yet fun read that will inspire children to look at the world around them in a whole new light, and nurture their curiosity about the natural world.
In second place, we picked All Bodies Are Wonderful by Beth Cox, illustrated by Samantha Meredith
A heartwarming and informative book designed to help children understand and appreciate their bodies. With a gentle approach, the book celebrates the uniqueness of every individual, highlighting that from the atoms that make us up to the incredible things our bodies can do, all bodies are wonderful.
In a world where children may sometimes feel self-conscious or unsure about their bodies, this book reassures them that being different is completely natural – it’s simply science at work! With an inclusive and empowering tone, it encourages children to embrace their bodies just as they are, fostering a sense of belonging and confidence.
Ideal for starting open, honest conversations about body diversity, this guide is a brilliant resource for supporting children to feeling comfortable and confident in their own skin. A must-read for anyone looking to nurture self-acceptance and promote positive body image from an early age.
And finally, our first place book was Mission Arctic by Katharina Weiss-Tuider, illustrated by Christian Schneider
Mission: Arctic takes readers on a thrilling journey to the heart of one of the world’s most vital yet least understood ecosystems. This fascinating science-based guide follows the 2019 MOSAiC expedition, the largest Arctic mission ever undertaken, offering young readers a unique insight into how the Arctic is rapidly changing and the profound effects these changes could have on our planet.
Through gripping photographs, illustrations, and diagrams, children will learn about the scientists who embarked on this daring mission aboard the Polarstern, a powerful icebreaker research vessel. The expedition’s goal was to freeze the ship into the Arctic sea ice and allow it to drift towards the North Pole, collecting vital data about the rapidly changing environment. Along the way, they faced extreme temperatures, fierce storms, and the constant threat of polar bears.
This book is a treasure trove of exciting facts and discoveries about the Arctic, including the dangerous conditions endured by the scientists and the groundbreaking research they conducted. It highlights the surprising truth that the Arctic ice, once thought to be permanent, is melting at an alarming rate.
Mission: Arctic is an essential read young ecologists and environmentalists, offering a compelling look at how the Arctic’s transformation affects us all. With its engaging narrative and stunning visuals, it’s a brilliant resource to spark curiosity about climate change and the importance of understanding our planet’s ecosystems.
Tips For Wellness from Dragonfly: Impact Education
A day without laughter is a day wasted – Charlie Chaplin
Laughter is truly the best medicine and can have a hugely positive impact on our mental health. There are even laughter workshops and laughter coaching emerging in many places.
Why is laughing so good for us?
Laughing releases endorphins and relaxes your body and mind. Even if not engaging in full on laughter, smiling relaxes the mind and body. One interesting study suggested that it is actually the belief that the happiest people increase their wellbeing because they smile more frequently.
Our top tips for making the most of smiling and laughter:
Keep It Real! Not all smiles are equal! In 1862, anatomist G B Duchenne noted that a muscle which surrounds the eye is only used in smiles that are real and not those that are posed. It’s these real smiles and laughter than release the endorphins so find things that genuinely make you happy!
Find What Works For You: Our sense of humour is very individual. Some people like slap-stick humour whilst others prefer witty repartee! Don’t feel any pressure to follow the crowd but rather experiment with lots of types of comedy until you find something you like.
Your Thoughts Matter: It’s really difficult to genuinely laugh or even smile if our thoughts are unhappy, so try to challenge negative thinking. Reframe this kind of thinking to positive (or neutral) thoughts and smile. This sends a signal to your body that everything is OK. It can be helpful to have a bank of happy thoughts that you bring to mind if you catch yourself in a negative spiral – things that always make you feel positive: loved ones, pets, beautiful experiences or views
Please contact [email protected] for information and advice about mental health and well-being for your child and your family.
This week, parents/carers of children starting Reception in September 2025 received their school place confirmations. There are still a small number of places available for our new Reception class, starting in September 2025. Please contact the school for more information on [email protected]
We are looking forward to meeting our new parents/carers for our ‘New Parent/Carer’ meeting in May. The school will be sending out information during the week commencing 28th April.
I am a huge fan of puzzle books, and it’s great to see new ones hitting bookshop shelves based on some of our favourite characters.
Where’s Wally? A-maze-ing Journeys by Martin Handford
A must-have addition to any young puzzler’s bookshelf. Now available in paperback, this delightful maze-filled journey promises hours of entertainment as young adventurers accompany Wally on a truly unique exploration.
With over 60 maze routes to uncover, the book takes readers through eleven captivating scenes, each more mind-boggling than the last. From art galleries to a bustling sweet factory, a space centre, and even Wallywood, each location is a maze in itself, packed with twists, turns, and plenty of fun distractions. Kids can trace their fingers through the labyrinths, solving the maze challenges, and searching for hidden objects along the way.
In addition to the main mazes, there are mini-mazes and extra searches scattered throughout, adding even more layers of adventure. From groovy discos to fantastical journeys, Wally’s world is as exciting as it is perplexing.
This book is an excellent choice for young puzzle enthusiasts, combining problem-solving skills with the thrill of discovery. Perfect for children who enjoy exploring, learning, and—most importantly—having fun!
Bunny Vs Monkey: The Whopping World Of Puzzles by Jamie Smart
The beloved Bunny vs Monkey series continues with a fantastic new addition that promises hours of interactive fun for children! In this latest book, Bunny, Monkey, and their gang stumble upon a secret theme park hidden deep within the woods, and what follows is a thrilling competition where you become part of the adventure.
Packed with a variety of engaging activities such as wordsearches, puzzles, and mazes, this activity book is designed to keep young minds entertained while offering plenty of laughs along the way. Whether you are solving challenges or joining in the fun with Bunny, Monkey, and the rest of the characters, there’s something for everyone. It’s a wonderfully creative way to keep busy, and this book is sure to be a favourite!
An absolute must-have for fans of the series and any child who loves interactive activities.
Loki: A Bad God’s Guide To Unruly Activities by Louie Stowell
If you are a fan of the mischievous Loki, then this fun-filled, interactive book is sure to keep you entertained for hours. A brilliant new addition to the series, it combines short stories, quizzes, puzzles, and a host of activities that are perfect for curious minds.
The book kicks off with Loki’s latest escapade: after pulling one too many pranks involving… well, let’s just say ‘poo’, Heimdall challenges him to find a more creative (and less messy) way to pass the time. Naturally, Loki is up for the task! With a bit of help from his friends, Valerie and Georgina (and, of course, Thor, who isdefinitely notone of Loki’s friends), he creates a collection of fun and sometimes cheeky activities.
You can try your hand at quizzes about Norse mythology, including a rather tricky one with Valerie and a much easier one with Thor. You can also decipher secret codes, and even hunt for Loki in various animal disguises. There is even an Insult Generator to craft witty (and humorous) remarks that is for out of school use only. Throughout it all, there are promises of those tantalising stories Loki has always been too busy to tell.
Packed with clever, light-hearted activities, this book is perfect for readers who love to engage with their favourite characters in a more interactive way. Whether solving puzzles or enjoying Loki’s mischief, this book is a brilliant boredom buster.
Tips For Wellness from our Mental Health In Schools Team
Stress Awareness
Stress is what you feel when you’re worried, nervous, or under pressure. It’s your body’s way of reacting to things that feel difficult, scary, or too much to handle. Everyone feels stressed sometimes! Stress can come from lots of things, such as:
School – too much homework, exams, or feeling like you have to do really well.
Friends – disagreements/ arguments, bullying, or feeling left out.
Family – disagreements/ arguments, moving house, or changes like a new baby in the family.
Big Changes – starting a new school, growing up, or losing someone you care about.
Some stress can be good, but too much can cause us to feel anxious or depressed, which might affect our sleeping, eating habits and general wellbeing. If stress is going on for a long time, we may also experience ‘burnout’, which is when our body is exhausted and has not had a chance to rest. There are things we can do to help our body recharge and reduce stress:
Our tips for managing stress:
Talk to someone you trust. This helps you not to feel alone, because someone is there to listen to you and to care. Remember – it’s okay to ask for help!
Stress bucket activity – follow the QR code/link to complete your own stress bucket. This may help you to see what is contributing to your stress, as well as what helps you to feel calmer.
Moving your body can help to release stress and make you feel good. Why not try dancing to your favourite song or going for a walk with friends or family?
Get creative – Art has been found to help people feel present in the moment and reduce the feeling of stress and worry. Follow the QR code/link for more information!
Create a calm corner – It is important to have somewhere that you feel safe, and you could go there when you feel like you need a break. You could fill the corner with soft things like pillows and blankets, and is the perfect place to read, draw, or even listen to calming music!
This year, our Year 5 & 6 Hooked On Books Quiz Team triumphed, beating all of the competition with their knowledge of this year’s shortlisted books. They answered questions on animals, names, numbers, food and drink, places, and other general knowledge, winning school a fabulous haul of books. This week, I’m sharing my favourites from our prize box.
For our younger readers, I’ve picked a fabulous non-fiction picture book, Do Bears Poop In The Woods by Huw Lewis Jones and Sam Caldwell
A fascinating and engaging field guide that takes readers on an exciting journey through the wild to uncover the wonders of eight different species of bears. Aimed at young explorers, this book offers a perfect blend of information and adventure, making it an ideal read for families interested in wildlife and conservation.
In this informative guide, Huw Lewis Jones introduces us to the world of bears, from the iconic panda and polar bear to the lesser-known sun bear and sloth bear. With the help of the expert field guide, children will learn how to identify these incredible creatures, and discover fascinating facts such as why bears poop so much, how to stay safe in bear territory, and the crucial ways we can help protect these magnificent animals.
Not only does this book teach about the lives of bears, but it also highlights the importance of conserving their habitats and understanding their unique needs. With its engaging narrative, fun facts, and beautiful illustrations, it is a must-have for nature-loving families and young readers eager to explore the wild.
So, lace up your walking boots, grab your binoculars, and set off on an unforgettable adventure into the world of bears. It’s both educational and entertaining, making it a perfect addition to any child’s reading list.
For our more confident readers, I’ve chosen another non-fiction title, Extinct: Hainan Gibbon by Ben Garrod, illsutrated by Gabriel Ugueto
TV scientist, Ben Garrod, presents an eye-opening exploration of extinction through the lens of one of our closest living relatives; the critically endangered Hainan gibbon. This book offers a compelling look at how evolution’s most remarkable creatures have survived the most destructive forces of nature, and how some are now on the brink of disappearing forever.
Ben Garrod’s unique approach makes complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting, showing how extinction has shaped life on Earth. The book asks a crucial question: can we help the Hainan gibbon become a ‘super-survivor’? With only a handful of these primates left, Ben challenges readers to reflect on our role in the story of life, encouraging us to move from being careless bystanders to active ‘super-savers’ – individuals who take responsibility for preventing the extinction of species we share the planet with.
Whether you’re a child or an adult, Extinct: Hainan Gibbon makes science fun and relevant, inspiring hope and action for the future. Ben’s thought-provoking message about conservation and the need for urgent action is both a call to awareness and a celebration of the incredible animals we still have the chance to protect. This book is a must-read for families interested in wildlife, conservation, and the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity.
And finally, for our oldest readers, I’ve selected The Others by Sarah Merrett
An exciting historical sci-fi adventure that will captivate young readers and spark their imaginations. Set against the backdrop of an observatory, the story follows Reuben, a boy living with his astronomer grandmother, who is determined to win the Guzman Prize — a prestigious award for discovering and contacting extraterrestrial life. However, Grandma faces fierce competition from the sinister Professor Pinfield, whose mysterious intentions could put everything at risk.
Reuben, though confined to the observatory, sneaks out one day and encounters an alien he names Blue. What follows is a thrilling race against time as Reuben must protect Blue from the evil professor while also unraveling the mystery of his own identity.
This fast-paced, action-packed novel combines elements of science fiction with historical intrigue, making it an engaging read for children. Sarah’s storytelling is rich in suspense, and the characters are both relatable and intriguing. Reuben’s bravery and determination shine through, and the themes of loyalty, courage, and discovery are woven throughout the story.
The Others is a fantastic choice for readers looking for an adventurous, thought-provoking book that blends science fiction with a historical twist. It will undoubtedly inspire curiosity about space, science, and the unknown, while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. A must-read for fans of adventure and mystery!
