THE ARIS PERSONAL WELLBEING MODEL
Our super engaging curriculum is designed around this model, which seeks to incorporate the ATL skills of Thinking, Communication, Self Management, Research and Social/ Collaboration. At the end of their time at ARIS, students would have picked up the IB Learner profiles of being Reflective, Caring, Knowledgeable, Open- minded, Balanced and a Risk Taker through the Wellbeing program.
As part of this academic year’s theme on “Enriching and Empowering Learning” the wellbeing department has been actively engaging students, staff, and parents in classroom discussions, workshops, and online training. Here are summaries of the work we have started this semester.
WELLBEING CLASSES IN SECONDARY
As we settle into the rhythms of 2025, here are some updates from the Wellbeing Division. We began the semester by commencing on the third module, Embracing Diversity. Under Embracing Diversity, students are supported to develop the skills and understanding to appreciate and celebrate differences while recognizing our common humanity. Through group discussions, and creative projects, students are examining various aspects of diversity – from cultural and religious differences to neurodiversity and different ability levels. Some projects for the different years include:
MYP: Cultural Showcase for 6 weeks
Each week, students focused on different cultures or countries. They were encouraged to research and present aspects such as traditions, customs, food, music, and clothing.They presented their findings to the class and teachers.
SOME PROJECTS
DP/CP
These past few weeks have been quite exciting for our DP/CP students as they engage in conversations on Inclusion and Exclusion, Unconscious Biases and Discrimination. These topics have brought a deeper understanding and awareness of how perceived factors can affect power dynamics and access to opportunities in different communities. Due to the heightened levels of stress our students are experiencing, we have put measures in place to support their wellbeing during this time. Aside from weekly check-ins and wellbeing classes, we are providing individual and group interventions tailored to reducing stress. The image below shows a stone art session for a section of DP students. We also collaborated with the CP coordinator to run a check-in session for CP1 students to support their wellbeing and address challenges they are facing as a class.
RECOMMENDED SLEEP REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS
1. Pre-teens (Ages 6-12): It is recommended that pre-teens obtain a consistent 9 hours of sleep each day. This duration allows for ample rest and rejuvenation, enhancing their cognitive function and emotional resilience.
2. Teenagers (Ages 13-18): Teenagers should aim for a minimum of 8 hours of sleep daily. This sleep duration supports their physical growth, mental acuity, and overall well-being, enabling them to tackle the demands of school life more effectively.
Additional Recommendations:
Social Isolation and Loneliness among teens is a pressing issue that needs our attention. Recent research has highlighted that many teenagers are experiencing profound feelings of loneliness, even when surrounded by others. Loneliness is not simply about being alone; it’s a deep sense of disconnection that can impact young people’s emotional well-being.
Teenage years are marked by intense emotional and physical changes. Adolescents are grappling with identity formation, peer pressure, and academic stress. These challenges, combined with the desire for acceptance and belonging, can contribute to feelings of loneliness and social isolation. We can work together to be their pillars of support and understanding during these difficult and confusing times.
Here are four valuable recommendations and strategies that can assist you in supporting your child through their feelings of loneliness.
- Encourage Open Communication:
Maintain an open line of communication with your child and create a safe space for them to express their emotions. Encourage them to share their experiences, both positive and negative, and actively listen without judgement. By fostering open communication, your child will feel more comfortable discussing their feelings of loneliness, allowing you to better understand their perspective and provide appropriate support.
- Promote Social Connections:
Loneliness often stems from a lack of meaningful social connections. Encourage your child to engage in activities that interest them and provide opportunities for them to meet like-minded peers. Encourage participation in school clubs, sports teams, or community organisations that align with their hobbies and interests. Additionally, consider organising playdates or get-togethers with classmates or neighbours to help foster new friendships outside of the school environment.
- Teach Social Skills:
Some students may struggle with social skills, making it difficult for them to initiate conversations or build relationships. Help your child develop these skills by providing guidance and opportunities for practice. Role-play scenarios with them, teaching them how to start conversations, listen actively, and empathise with others. Encourage them to practise these skills in real-life situations, such as during group projects or extracurricular activities. With time and practice, your child will become more confident in their social interactions, reducing feelings of loneliness.
- Foster a Sense of Belonging:
Creating a sense of belonging is crucial for combating loneliness. Encourage your child to explore their passions and interests, both inside and outside of school. Support them in finding activities or hobbies that bring them joy and a sense of purpose. Additionally, involve them in family decision-making processes, allowing them to contribute their ideas and opinions. When children feel valued and included, they are more likely to develop a sense of belonging, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness.
Remember, addressing loneliness requires patience and understanding. Each child’s experience is unique, and it may take time for them to overcome their feelings of isolation. By implementing these strategies and providing a supportive environment, you can make a significant difference in your child’s well-being and help them forge meaningful connections.
If you feel your child’s loneliness is persistent or significantly impacting their daily life, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Wellbeing Division for further guidance and support.