Counsellor's Corner
November
Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week
As we enter November, we’re preparing for an important event at our school: Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week, which takes place from November 18-22. This week is an opportunity for our community to come together, reflect, and build on our commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students.
What is Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week?
This week is dedicated to educating students about the impact of bullying and the importance of kindness, empathy, and respect. Our goal is to empower students to recognize bullying, understand its effects, and feel confident in seeking help or standing up for themselves and others.
Upcoming Activities for Students
Throughout the week, students will engage in activities and discussions focused on building positive relationships, fostering inclusivity, identifying bullying, and standing up in safe and respectful ways.
Tips for Parents
To extend learning beyond school, here are some ways you can support your child in building resilience and fostering empathy at home:
Talk About It: Ask your child what they’ve learned during Bullying Awareness Week. Encourage them to share their thoughts on bullying, respect, and kindness.
Model Kindness: Show by example. Children notice how we speak and interact with others. Small gestures of kindness can make a big impression!
Practice Assertive Communication: Help your child understand that they can say “no” or stand up for themselves calmly and respectfully.
Let’s work together to ensure our school is a safe, inclusive, and positive place for everyone. I’m looking forward to a meaningful week of growth and connection.
Report Card Time!
How to Use the Report Card as a Learning Tool
Here are some tips for discussing report cards with your child in a positive and constructive way:
Celebrate Achievements: Start by recognizing your child’s hard work and progress. Acknowledge both academic and personal successes, no matter how small.
Encourage Self-Reflection: Ask your child how they feel about their accomplishments and if they have any areas they’d like to improve. This builds self-awareness and a growth mindset.
Set Goals Together: Identify a few specific, attainable goals for the next term. These goals can focus on academic subjects or personal development, like organization, perseverance, or managing emotions effectively.
Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Well-being
Report cards can sometimes be a source of stress for students. If you notice your child is feeling anxious or disappointed, remind them that learning is a journey. Here are some strategies to keep report card time positive:
Stay Positive and Encourage Effort: Reinforce the idea that trying their best is what matters most. Emphasize the importance of persistence, learning from mistakes, and seeking help when needed.
Provide Reassurance: Remind your child that report cards are just one way to track progress. Effort, resilience, and a willingness to grow are equally important markers of success.
Be Available for Questions: Some children may have questions or concerns about their grades. Providing a listening ear can help them feel understood and supported.
Reach Out for Support
If you have any concerns or would like assistance in helping your child achieve their goals, I’m here to support you. Whether your child needs academic support, strategies for managing stress, or tools to improve focus and organization, please feel free to reach out.
Let’s make this an opportunity to encourage a love of learning and celebrate each step of growth!
Community Resources
- Family Resource Network (FRN)
- Family and Community Services
- Solutions Navigation
- Strathcona Food Bank
- Big Brothers Big Sisters
- BGC Strathcona County
Please reach out if you need any support in accessing services for your child or family.
AHS Newsletter & Sessions
Helplines: Mental Health, Crisis, and Community Support
Important Numbers
- Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
- Addiction Helpline – 1-866-332-2322
- Mental Health Helpline – 1-877-303-2642
- Community Resources – 211 Alberta
- Crisis Text Line - Text CONNECT to 741741
- Family Violence – Find Supports – 310-1818
- Health Link – 811
- Income Supports – 1-866-644-5135
- Local Resources & Support - Crisis Services Canada
- MyHealth.Alberta.ca: List of Important Numbers