We hope that you and your family are all keeping safe and well.
As we begin another week of self isolation and social distancing we want to reiterate that we are aware that this is a stressful time for families and the whole community. We also understand that every family and home situation is different and we all have varying challenges to contend with at this time. Bearing this in mind we will continue to send you work and upload work to the school website (Please see this week’s work attached). However, it is important to note that this is suggested work, activities and ideas only. We in no way wish to add to the strain that anyone may be under so please do as much or as little as fits in with your family schedule.
If your child gets through an hour to two hours a day, depending on their age and your family circumstances, that would be more than enough. If your child is finding a particular task difficult just leave it and see if there is a different task where they can experience success. Your children are always learning so now might be the time to play draughts, chess or other board games, make jigsaws, play cards or complete crossword puzzles. What children need right now is to feel comforted and loved, to feel like it’s all going to be okay; a good routine or daily structure will help with this and likewise this might mean that we play outside and go on walks (while maintaining social distance) bake cookies, paint pictures or watch movies; do a science experiment together or find virtual field trips of the zoo; start a book and read together as a family; snuggle under warm blankets and do nothing.
If I was to leave you with one final thought for now it would be to encourage your child to read daily and to tune into the ‘RTÉ Home School Hub’ every day. If you or the children have any questions or concerns regarding schoolwork please feel free to contact us by email or call: Ms. Ryan 086 8728285, Mrs. Stone 087 6570189 or Ms. Johnston 087 7942883 and we will assist you in any way we can.
Finally, please keep those who are at the front line of dealing with this national emergency and their families in your thoughts and prayers, especially those from within our community.
We are thinking of you all at this time and thank you for your continued support. God bless and keep safe.
Yours sincerely,
Deirdre Ryan
On behalf of the staff and Board of Management of Castledockrell National School.