When our Kelpie was young, he was a skilled escape artist. He could clear fences with ease, allowing for excursions into neighbouring properties to visit the humans and animals who lived there. We repaired fences, added additional height to some fences, and generally made his escape more challenging. Every time we thought we had solved the problem, he continued to escape. The fence was not the solution. When we were home, he never left the yard. He happily followed his humans around and as he strayed towards the fence line, we would gently call him back. As he listened to our voices and chose to be close behind us, the fence posed no temptation.
As parents and teachers, we often build fences around our children and young people in an attempt to protect them. And just like my Kelpie, a fence or boundary presents an enticing challenge to our children. The grass always seems greener on the other side. While there is nothing wrong with keeping our children safe, our goal should be to help them develop the discernment required to make wise decisions. At school we value the skill of critical thinking, and we are intentional about teaching students the art of discernment and wise decision-making. This is a skill that is best learned through practice with age-appropriate decisions.
Just as my kelpie needed to hear the voices of his humans to prompt and guide him, so too our children need the voices of wise adults in their ears. We need to give them reasons to stay close. At Avondale School we also teach our students to hear and follow the voice of their Creator and Lord. As we teach our children to listen to wise counsel and learn to be discerning, we are equipping them to withstand the influences of peer pressure and to walk a path that aligns with their values.
Let the teaching of Christ and His words keep on living in you. These make your lives rich and full of wisdom. Colossians 3:16
Mrs Deb Cooper
Principal
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