Psychology Today describes resilience as:

“that ineffable quality that allows some people to be knocked down by life and come back stronger than ever.  Rather than letting a failure overcome them and drain their resolve, they find a way to rise from the ashes.”

Resilience is an important life skill, the more resilient a person is the less they experience stress and are better equipped to deal with life’s pressures.  Parents and school staff play an important role in building resilience in children.  Resilience is shaped in part by upbringing and culture but can be developed through the teaching of social skills.  We promote resilience by role modelling coping skills, teaching problem-solving and assisting kids to solve their problems as they arise.  Kids are more likely to be resilient when they are supported by the adults in their lives.

We can support students to build resilience by:

• Make realistic plans and take steps to carry them out
• Build a positive view of themselves
• Have confidence in their strengths and abilities
• Foster skills in communication and problem-solving
• Encourage students to manage strong feelings and impulses.