We are celebrating Positivity Week this week, which is not new to Perth College, but I thought it was about time I explained what this week is all about.
American psychologist, Martin Seligman has made a science of positive psychology. His concept, happiness can be learnt, and in turn, through being happy you can change the way you look at life, is certainly a concept worth exploring.
In fact, there are many linkages between promoting positive psychology and building resilience. Our InsideOut programme is based on the very premise of positive psychology.
Our youngest students in Kindergarten learn of social and emotional intelligence through the Kimochis programme. ‘Kimochi’ means feeling in the Japanese language and a whole range of plush toys have been developed to help children understand and express their feelings. This programme has been extended to children in the wider community, with programmes running for 4-5 year olds and 7-9 year olds.
In Year 5, our girls participate in Friendship Fires, to learn how to communicate effectively with friends and peers. Importantly, the girls learn behaviours that can prevent damaging friendships. As I am sure you are aware, children can carry the stress of fractured friendships in to all areas of their lives. This programme will enable girls to build strong friendships.
These are just two examples of the positivity that stems from InsideOut. So how exactly does Positivity Week link in? This week is about celebrating and exploring the fun side of life. Our Student Representative Council (SRC) works together with our Sacristan to create a week of activities for the girls to enjoy.
In the week leading up to Positivity Week, a comedian (Libbie Klysz) will visit the girls at assembly, and activities planned for the week include Mass Zumba, Laughing Yoga, biscuit decorating, face painting and a petting zoo. New events planned for 2012 include Dance Squares, where a number of squares are marked around the Senior School, as the girls walk through these on their way to class, they will need to dance for the time they are in the square. A paper wall will also be constructed with positive messages from the girls.
While it might seem that some of the events planned are frivolous, and not connected with education, this is anything but the case! It is no coincidence Positivity Week is planned for the week leading up to the Year 11 and 12 exams.
Through Positivity Week, the girls can live in the moment, relax and enjoy life, all the while bringing their stress levels down prior to important exams. I hope you and your family can join in with the fun of Positivity Week by planning some fun activities too!
