Gentleness

While gentleness definitely means using soft touches it also goes much deeper than that. Gentleness is all about how we can be loving, tender, calm, & humble in the things we say and do  instead of being harsh or mean. It is a mildness or meekness (quiet, gentle) of spirit.  The Bible urges followers of Jesus to be gentle. Not only is it a fruit of the Spirit, but it is also a command in Colossians, Proverbs, and other books. Even Jesus describes himself as “gentle and lowly in heart” in Matthew 11:29.

What does it mean to be gentle? Gentleness is similar to kindness, but it involves cultivating a softness of heart toward other people. The Bible gives us several examples of gentleness.

When we are gentle with someone we can speak the truth in love. Gentle words truly do calm a situation and harsh words do indeed stir up anger. Our good and gentle Shepherd leads us with love and care. He shows us so perfectly how to be gentle and still speak the truth in love.

Gentleness isn’t innate. It’s intentionally taught.  Here are 5 proven strategies you can start using today.

1. Lead the way.

Interactions with you form your child’s initial guidelines for gentle behavior. From day one, they are watching not just what you do but how you do it. Your soft kiss on her forehead models a gentle touch. Your voice’s soothing tone when she comes to you in tears shows her that voices can be gentle. 

But your modeling goes beyond your direct interactions. Your child also notices how you respond to a frustrating phone call, navigate an argument, or handle when things don’t go to plan. These moments under pressure shape understanding of how gentleness can be expressed in challenging situations.

2. Use books and movies to talk about gentleness.

Stories provide teaching moments for kids of all ages about the impact of gentle choices. Look for books and movies (or TV shows) featuring characters who solve problems through gentleness rather than force. The movies How to Train Your Dragon, Big Hero 6, and Charlotte’s Web, as well as the books The Kissing Hand, The One and Only Ivan, and Because of Winn Dixie opened up the door for conversations about gentleness. 

After watching or reading together, talk about it by asking questions like:

• What happened when the character chose to be gentle (or not)?
• Do you think the story would have ended differently if the character tried a harsher (or more gentle) approach?
• Which character showed the most gentleness? In what ways?
• Why do you think gentleness worked better than being forceful?

3. Give your child practice.

Kids learn best through real-life experiences, so find everyday ways to let your child practice gentleness.

4. Point out the good stuff.

When you catch your child being gentle with words or actions, let him know you see and appreciate their choices. Be specific. “I noticed how you spoke softly when your sister was upset. You chose a really gentle way to use your words to help her feel better.” This kind of feedback helps your child connect gentle actions with positive outcomes, making him feel good about their behavior and encouraging them to continue.

5. Nurture empathy development.

Empathy and gentleness grow together when children learn to recognize others’ feelings and respond thoughtfully. Help your child consider another person’s perspective by asking questions like: “How do you think your friend felt when that happened?” or “What might have gone differently if you spoke more gently instead of yelling?” These conversations teach emotional awareness and lay the foundation for responding with kindness.

When possible, offer a “do-over” to replace a harsh reaction with a gentler one. 

Remember that gentleness comes from strength, and that means we don’t allow kids free reign with no discipline. We hold firm boundaries with kindness and gentleness, as in Galatians 6:1.God is gentle with us, and we can be gentle with others too

National Catholic Educators Conference NCEC

Over the last two weeks I have been away.  During this time I was able to attend a conference for Catholic leaders around Australia.  I spent time reflecting on our work at school.

Some thoughts

• Teaching is an infinite job- the work expands to fill in the time available.
• Teachers work hard.
• We need to be able to free up teacher time- so that they have time for improvements.
• Often behavioural problems are an instructional problem.
• Good teachers prepare for life long learning rather than for this year's scores.
• Learning is slow.  Some students have skills at 7.  Most do by 11.
• Everybody counts.
• Take micromoments of success to build the next.

TA Appreciation Week

This week we celebrate and thank the work of our Teacher Assistants.  They are such an integral part of the work we are able to achieve for our students.  We are blessed at St Joseph's to have a team of committed, caring and empathetic Teacher Assistants who turn up every day to make a difference.  It is through their effort that students are supported to make good decisions and are more able to get the individualised support that make our school a great place to be.

We thank each of them

• Mrs Caitlin Clarke
• Mrs Sonya McDermott
• Ms Anne-Marie Walker
• Mrs Sharyn Schulze
• Mr Jaidin Triffett
• Mrs Aleisha Austbo
• Ms Sarah Myers
• Mrs Nicole Stubbs

Making Jesus Real

Today we have been lucky enough to have Mr Marty Ogle in our school.  We have been blessed by having his enthusiasm and joy in our school.  The engaging way he tells stories and shares life motivates and inspires our students.  We have had a focus today on MAD.  This stands for Making A Difference.  The students have all taken on the challenge of how to make a difference

• at home
• At school
• In our community.

Each student has made a personal commitment to act on a MAD action.

Marty has shared many magic tricks so be prepared at home for this.  We are also hoping that many will remember the OK with a smile Marty has shared with us.

Fathers Day

This week we are preparing ourselves for Father's day. Our message for Father's Day should express love, appreciation, and gratitude for everything your dad does. Our dad’s do so much for us,  and it is a chance to thank him for what he does.  Some of us can thank him for his support, guidance, and for being our hero or biggest fan. On Friday we invite dads or special male role models for our students into our school to engage in breakfast and some activities.  We look forward to having these important people in our school.