Welcome to Term 2: Ready to Learn, Ready to Care
- AISB News
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
As we begin a new term, a smooth return to school is less about “getting strict” and more about re-establishing simple routines that help our young people feel calm, capable and ready to learn. Australian parenting and health guidance consistently highlights that predictable routines support children’s behaviour, cooperation and wellbeing, because they reduce decision-fatigue and make expectations clear.
Re-establishing bedtime and morning routines
Sleep is one of the strongest foundations for learning, mood and self-regulation. Australian health guidance recommends around 9–11 hours for primary-aged children and 8–10 hours for teenagers, with consistent sleep and wake times supporting better quality rest.
A helpful approach is to shift bedtime gradually (10–15 minutes earlier each night for a few days), keep the last 30–60 minutes calm (shower, reading, quiet conversation), and aim for the same wake-up time, even on weekends.
For mornings, consider a simple ‘set the night up for success’ routine: pack bags, prepare uniforms and devices, and agree on a short checklist your child can follow independently. Raising Children Network suggests using clear, step-by-step plans (and visual reminders for younger children) to reduce rushing and support independence.
Reducing screen time (especially before bed)
Holidays often mean increased recreational screen time, but the return to school is a great moment to reset. Australian guidance recommends limiting sedentary recreational screen time to no more than 2 hours per day for children and young people (5–17 years) (not including schoolwork).
For younger children, the Australian 24-hour movement guidelines advise no screen time under 2 years, and no more than 1 hour per day for ages 2–5.
Practical strategies include: turning off non-essential notifications, using device time limits, charging devices outside bedrooms, and building “screen-free anchors” into the day (breakfast, travel time, and the hour before bed).
Term 2: familiar routines, shared expectations
Term 2 is a time when students can settle quickly into already familiar classroom routines and behaviour expectations. At AISB, we will revisit our values: Respect, Integrity, Community, Wellbeing, Personal Best, and Global Outlook, and our simple shared rules…Is it safe? Is it fair? Does it show that you care?
This language supports students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 to make good choices, resolve conflict respectfully, and contribute positively to our community.
Thank you for the way you partner with us. When home and school work together on routines, sleep, and healthy digital habits, students return feeling secure, focused, and ready to make Term 2 their Personal Best.
Additional Reading can be found here:
Mark Pearce
Deputy Head of Primary
Head of Teaching and Learning
