PARKWAY NEWS

Dear Parkway Families,

With the warm weather, children are spending more time socializing—an important part of their development, but one that can sometimes lead to “sticky” situations. Beyond academics, kids need to learn key social skills: making and maintaining friendships, sharing, showing empathy, expressing feelings, and even recognizing when it’s time to move on from a friendship.

In the early years, parents play a hands-on role in guiding social interactions. As children grow, they gain independence, but they still need support in navigating friendships and conflicts. At Parkway, we encourage students to see different perspectives and work through misunderstandings, as many conflicts stem from miscommunication.

At home, it’s important to remember that children often tell only their side of the story, sometimes struggling to accurately convey another person’s point of view. As parents, listening, asking questions, and helping them consider different perspectives can make a big difference. Offering choices empowers them to take ownership of their social growth and problem-solving skills.

Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation discusses how today’s children face increasing social and emotional challenges, in part due to less real-world interaction and problem-solving opportunities. He encourages parents to raise "anti-fragile" kids—children who can face difficulties, learn from them, and grow stronger. This means allowing them to experience setbacks and navigate social challenges with guidance rather than immediate intervention. Encouraging kids to work through conflicts, rather than avoiding them, builds resilience and confidence.

Elementary school is a crucial time for developing social independence, and we’re here to support both students and parents. If your child is facing a tricky social situation, let us know—we can often help without them even realizing it.

Have a wonderful month,

Suzanne Barbi

March 6-7: PTA Book Fair

March 6: PTA Book Fair Family Night, 5-8pm

March 7: Read Across America

March 13: PTA 4th Grade Paint Night, 7:30-8:45pm

March 13: PTA Meeting, 7pm

March 20: PTA Parent & Caregiver CPR Training, 7-8:30pm

Thank you for the fantastic turnout and thoughtful discussion during our virtual study group on The Anxious Generation! It was wonderful to connect and share insights on such an important topic.

For those who couldn’t attend, I’ve linked the BOOK STUDY RECORDING here, so you can catch up at your convenience.

During our meeting, there was a great suggestion to create a way for parents to connect for screen-free play opportunities. In response, I’ve set up a GroupSpot where parents can arrange playdates or simply connect with others interested in this conversation. If you’d like to join, just click the link below:

Join the GroupSpot Here You will need to provide your child’s name and school to join this GroupSpot.

Looking forward to seeing you at our next book study session on March 28th. Thanks again for being part of this important conversation!

Our students are enjoying the new playground. The first grade classes made thank you notes showing their appreciation. They were presented at the last Board of Education Meeting.

Lead U is a positive group of teaching artists who creatively engage, educate and empower learners of all ages to find the leaders within themselves. They put on a great assembly when they came to the school last month. Students enjoyed the show and their positive message.

This month in Parkway Pals, our K-4 students are learning all about impulse control through engaging read-alouds and interactive games.

We kicked things off with Impulsive Ninja by Mary Nhin, helping students recognize and manage impulsive behaviors. Then, we reinforced these skills through fun and fast-paced games:

• Hot Potato – Quick thinking and self-control were key as students passed the "potato" while the music played.

• Word Link – Students had to think before they spoke, carefully connecting words in a chain while staying on topic.

• Stella Ella Olla – A classic hand game where quick reflexes and patience determined the winners.

Our Parkway Pals showed great focus and teamwork while having a blast.