Beyond the classroom, a fun-filled day at HFC
View(s):From Yoga to pet therapy and more, ‘Mental Well-being Day’ on November 7 reflected the school’s commitment to holistic education and mental health awareness
Pens were downed and books were closed, as students of Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya, trooped out of their classrooms and to the grounds for a thrilling and fulfilling ‘Mental Well-being Day’ on November 7.
Cuddle time: A student and a four-legged friend during the pet therapy session and on our cover, the Zumba session. Pix by M.A. Pushpa Kumara
With a focus on Grades 6 – 13 and Edexcel students, the day’s activities included Zumba by Rajmi Dassanayake; Guided Meditation; Yoga – with parallel sessions by Nayana Welgama and Nilukshi Gunawardena; Poetry and Creative Expression by Ramya Jirasinghe; Drama by Angelo Pereira; Music Therapy – with parallel sessions by the Khemadasa Academy and Thilini Wijesinghe; Art Therapy by Dr. Avanthi Jayasinghe; Journaling by Sharika Mubarack; Pet Therapy by Paw Street; and Dance Therapy by Rasanjalie Fernando
There was also Stand up Comedy by Taniya Lewwanduwage; Open Mic – where students were allowed to showcase their own talents; Group Canvas Painting; a Gratitude Board for the students to reflect on the good things in their lives like people, moments or simple joys; and a Positivity Board to create a shared space of encouragement and hope.
Notes of happiness: Students’ response to fulfilling day
Posters of self-awareness
Each student also received a free ‘Mindfulness Journal’ with 30 days of mindfulness prompts and Mandala colouring pages ideal for the school holidays. They also took part in a poster competition on themes linked to mental well-being.
“In a first conducted at HFC, the Mental Well-being Day was designed to help Familians understand the importance of emotional balance, resilience and self-care. We believe that it will empower them to thrive both in and beyond the classroom. This is in alignment with the school’s commitment to holistic education and mental health awareness,” said Principal Sr. Charitha Thandalge.
This initiative had blossomed from a discussion between Sr. Charitha and the Sydney branch of the Past Pupils’ Association, which sponsored it.
It was facilitated by the Parent-Teacher Association under the guidance of the School Counsellor.
The judges of the programme were, of course, the students and this was their verdict: “It’s amazing, I love it”, “This is better than Children’s Day” and “Wish we have these more often.”
Searching for that next furry family member but couldn’t find one in your area? Hitad.lk has the solution with our extensive listings of dogs for sale in Sri Lanka!