It is the second last week of our first term and it looks like Summer has left us and Autumn has reminded us that the coolness of Winter is coming. On the school front, we have some big events still to come. Our Year 6s are heading off on camp to Canberra next week, our Personal and Social Reports go home this week, and several of our classes have excursions before the end of next week.

Yesterday morning, some of us came to school extra early to help our Year 5 students load up on a bus and head to Ballarat for their school camp. (A big shout out of thanks to the adults who are on camp). There was a real buzz of excitement amongst the kids, along with what seemed to be an air of “what next”. I really wish I could bottle that, and breathe it in as I start each day.

In a primary school, and as a grandad, I get to spend quite a lot of time around young ones. Something that they have recently brought to my mind is how to appreciate and be grateful for even the simplest things we come across in life. The sense of awe and wonder that springs up so spontaneously for them is inspiring.

This got me thinking about those two words and reminded me of something I read a year or so ago by the author Brene Brown. In a discussion about developing emotional literacy, she looks at the difference between awe and wonder. She writes, “Awe and wonder are essential to the human experience. Wonder fuels our passion for exploration and learning, for curiosity and adventure. Researchers have found that awe “leads people to cooperate, share resources, and sacrifice for others” and causes them “to fully appreciate the value of others and see themselves more accurately, evoking humility.”” (Brown, 2021)

You may see his as simply playing with words, but I think there is a beautiful depth to this. When we witness the spontaneous wonder (curiosity, adventure, passion to learn more) in our children, it should really invite us to experience that again as well.

How can we do that?

Below are some practical suggestions on how we can dive into the world of awe and wonder and in turn, enjoy the gratitude that results.

“1. Self-awareness - training your mind begins when we can start becoming self-aware of our thoughts. Notice what thoughts are causing you feelings of anxiety, stress, or frustration? Notice feelings of awe and wonder, and ask yourself what's different? Get curious about all your emotions and the experiences that are connected to them.

2. Be present- the more we can “be here now”, the more we are able to enjoy the beauty around us. Listen more, speak less. Focus on the little things that make you smile each day. This is a daily practice. Learning to let go of thoughts that distract you so that you can live in the present moment. Doing this also creates deeper connections and strengthens relationships.

3. Gratitude- The book, “Unlocked” by George Mumford discusses how practicing gratitude involves conscious effort. An attitude of gratitude is not so much about being grateful for specific things we have or don't have, it's more about a state of mind. If we practice gratitude, we're cultivating a great mind. Keeping your mind on what is good, what is worthwhile, and what gives us meaning and purpose will enrich us.

4. Breathe - when you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, worry, or stress…pause and breathe. Focus on what you're doing in the present moment.

5. Go for an “awe walk” in nature – A study found that those who did a 15-minute walk outdoors at least once a week, alone, and at an easy pace without electronics experienced moments of awe and gratitude. Another study found that those who walked in nature also reported feeling more hopeful and upbeat.” (Rios-Doria, 2024)

Have a great week with our kids,

Mark B

“The heavens declare the glory of God, the skies proclaim the works of God’s hands.”

Psalm 19:1