Ruby, a Year 5 student at Federal State School, recently took part in Relate, Respect, Connect, a Life Ed session focused on respectful relationships, both face to face and online, empathy and communication. Carrie says the impact of the program was immediate.
“Ruby has been acting very differently this past week – and I like it! She’s been amazingly kind and considerate to her friends and family. I think this session has really influenced how she treats others and the choices she makes.”
One moment that stood out was when Ruby overheard two boys in her class planning to disrupt another child’s play. Without hesitation, she stepped in.
“She told them, ‘Stop, don’t do that to him!’” Carrie recalls. “They backed down, but I was so proud of her for standing up for her friend. Ruby seems more confident in speaking up and is able to display techniques in advocacy more now than she used to. I believe since the Life Ed visit and learning new skills, she feels empowered to put these skills into action if needed.”
Ruby agrees, sharing her own feedback about her memorable Life Ed session:
“We learned about what makes a good relationship with family and friends. I loved this session because we learned how to deal with bullies, how to ask and give consent, and how to be the greatest friend you can be!”
At home, Carrie has noticed a shift in how Ruby handles the everyday conflicts that all families experience.
“When we have a disagreement, she doesn’t storm off anymore. She takes a moment, then comes back and we talk it through. That’s new for her – and she told me it’s because of what she learned with Mel during the session.”
Carrie says the experience has even prompted her to reflect on her own parenting.
“Ruby has helped re-educate me on the importance of friendships and noticing when our kids might need to talk. I’m more aware now of how our family routines and relationships affect our children’s wellbeing.”
As a former Life Ed student herself, Carrie remembers the excitement of seeing the van roll into Eumundi State School.
“It was always a highlight. I remember how engaged we all were. It’s great to see Ruby having that same experience – and even better to see the real-life impact it’s having.
“Hearing about Ruby’s Life Ed experience – shared with so much passion – filled me with admiration and cheered my day. I feel confident that she is thriving.”
