Seasons for Growth Programme

By Kristen Ferguson | Posted: Thursday June 6, 2024

If your child has experienced change and loss recently, this might be for you.

What is Seasons for Growth?
Seasons for Growth is an 8 week change and loss education programme that uses the imagery of the seasons to illustrate the experience of grief. It does not provide counselling or therapy. It aims to strengthen the social and emotional well-being of children and young people (aged 6-18) who are dealing with significant life changes by:
• exploring the impact of change and loss on everyday life
• learning new ways to respond to these changes.

Kaikorai has recently implemented Seasons for Growth into our wellbeing programme. Kristen Ferguson (our Deputy Principal/Special Needs Coordinator) runs the sessions and has undergone training to become a Seasons for Growth "Companion."  The sessions are approximately 45 minutes and are in groups of approximately 4 students of similar ages.

Benefits of Learning in Small Groups: 

• Reducing Isolation: Helping to build a sense of whānau.
• Shared Experiences: Reminding children and young people that they are not alone; others are going through challenges too.
• Skill Development: Providing time-out from classroom activities to develop coping, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Respectful Discussion: Promoting safe group activities and respectful discussion.
• Boosting Confidence: Restoring self-confidence and self-esteem by helping children understand they have choices and agency in their lives.

If you think this is something your child would benefit from, or you'd like more information about the programme, please get in touch with Kristen Ferguson ([email protected]). We are committed to supporting our students through their journeys and ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive.

He oranga ngākau, he pikinga waiora. ~ A healthy heart, a life uplifted.